TulsaPeople July 2026

FACES OF THE 918

CHANDLER PARK RENOVATIONS

HOMEGROWN ‘OKLAHOMA!’ July 2026

TREAT YOURSELF 42 LOCAL DESSERTS TO TASTE TEST

COOKIES BY BARBEE COOKIES

TROMPE L’OEIL

BY SAINT AMON BAKING CO

BUGAJ BY MUHANNA SWEETS

CAKE BY LE LOUVRE FRENCH CAFE

GLUTEN-FREE DONUTS BY BIG BABY ROLLS AND DONUTS CHURROS BY ARMANDO AND CHELY CAKES

Heart expertise for the rhythm of your life.

saintfrancis.com/heart Nobody cares for hearts like Saint Francis. We’re one of just six hospitals nationwide recognized as a Cardiac Center of Excellence, and the only one in Oklahoma.

Find a physician or book a screening today.

saintfrancis.com/heart

This July 4th, we celebrate 250 years of independence, resilience, and the enduring spirit that built our nation.

At First Oklahoma Bank, we’re proud to stand alongside our community, helping families and businesses write their own American stories.

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

Your partner in addiction recovery.

If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction to opioids, alcohol or other substances, talk with an expert at the OSU Addiction Recovery Clinic about outpatient treatment options and start your recovery journey today.

OSU addiction medicine specialists provide customized care for adults and adolescents using treatment options that may include medications, counseling and behavioral therapy, and support groups.

Conditions treated include: • Co-occurring psychiatric or mental health concerns

• Substance use disorders — alcohol, opioids, kratom, smoking, marijuana, • Compulsive behaviors such as gambling, stimulants shopping, gaming, etc.

Call 918-561-1890 to schedule an appointment or visit osumedicine.com to learn more.

OSU Addiction Recovery Clinic 5310 E 31st St #1102, Tulsa osumedicine.com | 918-561-1890

Contents JULY 2026

VOLUME 40 ISSUE 9

7 CITY DESK Family-friendly fun with SK8 DATE. Tulsa reads the same book.

New exhibit honors Indigenous history.

Signature Symphony celebrates America.

30 ACCESS FOR ALL Recent renovations have made Chandler Park more inclusive.

BY MARNIE FERNANDEZ

35 AN OKLA-HOMECOMING Iconic musical “Oklahoma!” prepares to take the Tulsa PAC stage with a homegrown cast and an eye toward the future.

BY ALLYSSA REEDER

39 JUST DESSERTS From hidden-gem food trucks to decadent sit-down spots, we’ve rounded up the ultimate guide to Tulsa’s best dessert destinations.

BY STAFF

79 LIFESTYLE Gifts and more at Margaret Pierce.

Summer fun in OKC. Tips to keep plants cool.

Cardio at Courts and Commons.

89

SPECIAL SECTION 50 FACES OF THE 918 A filled taiyaki cone and Jack the Monkey from Little Taiyaki 4 TulsaPeople JULY 2026

COVER PHOTO BY MICHELLE POLLARD

MICHELLE POLLARD

TABLE TALK Modern Italian dining downtown.

Little Belly charms on Brookside.

The Chalkboard’s anniversary specials. ’90s summer nostalgia at Welltown.

Chambers and Partners, an international legal research and analysis provider, has highly ranked Crowe Dunlevy in the 2026 edition of the “Chambers USA” guide.* The publication gave Crowe Dunlevy its highest honor of Band 1 rankings in nine practice areas; Corporate/Commercial, Environment, Healthcare, Intellectual Property, Labor & Employment, Litigation: General Commercial, Native American Law, Real Estate, and Tax. The firm was ranked Band 2 in the Energy & Natural Resources practice area.

Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America

Tulsa Attorneys Ranked in Band 1

Shawn M. Dellegar Intellectual Property

Michael McBride III Native American Law

Tulsa Attorneys Ranked in Band 2 & Band 3

Michael McBride III Litigation: General Commercial

Randall J. Snapp Labor & Employment

Malcolm E. Rosser IV Real Estate

Tulsa Attorney Ranked as Up and Coming

Randall Yates Native American Law

*Crowe Dunlevy has no input in the rating methodologies used by Chambers and Partners.

CONTENTS

EDITOR’S LETTER

Volume XL, Number 9 ©2026. All rights reserved.

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

TulsaPeople Magazine is published monthly by

Digital Editor Madison Walters, Editor Lauren Rogers and photographer Michelle Pollard style July’s cover.

H

i Tulsa! I am usually a completely behind-the-scenes type of gal, but as our team was in the course of preparing July’s issue, I snapped a photo that inspired me to share some words with our TulsaPeople readers.

Our cover this month teases the dessert feature on p. 39, which highlights 42 sweet treats from a wide variety of Tulsa area eateries. The image was shot right here in the TulsaPeople studio — Managing Photographer Michelle Pollard came in to work her magic, and we all had an absolutely delicious time styling all the tasty bits and bites together. As Michelle called for a little more sprinkles here, an added donut there, I found myself wondering if our readers know the extent of just how much gets done by human hand around here — especially at a time when AI has taken over so much.

The TulsaPeople team works so hard to bring our monthly issues to life. Creative Director Madeline Crawford has been quietly creating TP’s stunning cover images and design layouts since 2013.

Michelle and Videographer Greg Bollinger log hundreds of miles every month shooting everything from music and food to people and animals. Editor Lauren Rogers is forever chasing down the next story, in addition to spinning approximately 1,000 other editorial plates. Graphic Designer Allyssa Reeder somehow found the extra time to write a beautiful, full-blown feature on the Tulsa PAC’s July production of “Oklahoma!” (read it on p. 34). And Digital Editor Madison Walters keeps everything afloat online while also writing thoughtful stories and being the best turtle mom ever to the six shell babies that live in our courtyard.

All of this is done, of course, between the chaos of our everyday lives — kids and appointments.

Side passions and hustles. Noisy neighbors and buying first homes. Field trips and grandchildren.

Caring for aging parents and navigating loss.

6 TulsaPeople JULY 2026

In everything we do, we are truly human through and through.

But sometimes being fully human also unfortunately means there’s typos we don’t catch, or names we misspell. Wrong web addresses.

Transposed words. Though the anxiety of making a mistake is sometimes hard to push past, I remind myself of a phrase I learned in Sicily last summer: cu mancia fa muddichi, which means “He who eats makes crumbs.”

Basically, if you dare to do anything in this life, mistakes are inevitably just a part of the package.

As much as I hate it, I know we will have more typos slip through in the future. But the alternative is...what? Just not tell the stories of Tulsans doing incredible things for the community? Tulsans like Tyra Lewis, who started a skating nonprofit to create safe, accessible, sober fun for all (read more on p. 16)? Or Naturalist Kim Watson and the rest of the team out at Chandler Park, which just underwent a massive transformation to make amenities more accessible to all (p. 30)?

No. We choose to tell the stories.

Tulsa just gets up to too much good for us to stay quiet out of fear of making a mistake. So we push forward, just like we know you all are doing out there, too. Connie Cronley, our hearts are with you and with anyone else facing a “stormy blast” this season (p. 86). Whether you’re in the trenches of parenthood, bravely facing down a diagnosis or simply enjoying a sweeter season of life, we hope these stories serve as encouraging reminders of our shared humanity, and of all the ways there are to connect with others in this Magic City of ours.

Cu mancia fa muddichi, Tulsa. Grab a sweet treat this month and dare to make some crumbs. tp

Tiffany Howard ASSISTANT EDITOR

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

PUBLISHER PRESIDENT VP COMMUNITY RELATIONS CONTROLLER

Jim Langdon Juley Roffers Susie Miller Mary McKisick

EDITOR DIGITAL EDITOR ASSISTANT EDITOR INTERNS

Lauren Rogers Madison Walters Tiffany Howard Kamron Williams Mary A. Smith Michael Searles

CREATIVE DIRECTOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER MANAGING PHOTOGRAPHER VIDEOGRAPHER

Madeline Crawford Allyssa Reeder Michelle Pollard Greg Bollinger

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES

Andrea Canada Melissa Givens Josh Kampf

MEMBER

TulsaPeople’s distribution is audited annually by

Langdon Publishing sets high standards to ensure forestry is practiced in an environmentally responsible, socially beneficial and economically viable manner.

This issue of TulsaPeople was printed on recycled fibers containing 20% postconsumer waste with inks containing a soy base blend. Our printer is a certified member of the Forestry Stewardship Council and the Sustainable Forestry Initiative, and additionally, meets or exceeds all federal Resource Conservation Recovery Act standards. When you are finished with this issue, please pass it on to a friend or recycle it. We can have a better world if we choose it together.

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City Desk NEWS

CAUSES

PASSIONS

ON A ROLL

W GREG BOLLINGER

ith 172 attendees showing up to last month’s SK8 DATE session, word is definitely out about the nonprofit’s monthly “rink style” events. The beginner-friendly sessions are free to attend and feature skating instruction, food, a live DJ and plenty of fun. Skates are also available to borrow at no cost.

“I want SK8 DATE to be a staple here in Tulsa,” says founder Tyra Lewis. “There’s a skate community here, and this is what we do ... It doesn’t matter if you’re 5 or 65, they’re out here.” tp READ MORE ON P. 16.

TulsaPeople.com 7

CITY DESK

NOTEBOOK

Tulsa Town Hall Executive Director Kathy Collins and Community Relations Manager Betty O’Connor

Tulsa Town Hall’s upcoming season to include ‘Jeopardy!’ host, among other household names.

BY MICHAEL SEARLES Tulsa Town Hall is gearing up for its 2026-2027 season with an all-star lineup of guest speakers visiting between September and March. Led by two staff members and a volunteer board of 34, the nonprofit organization continues its 91-year mission to open minds and inspire imaginations by hosting distinguished individuals with unique perspectives or expertise on current topics.

“We need diverse speakers. We don’t want all authors or all historians,” says Tulsa Town Hall Executive Director Kathy Collins.

The organization’s volunteer-driven program committee researches and selects speakers, seeking out individuals that, as Community Relations Manager Betty O’Connor puts it, can “stir curiosity, open minds ... and encourage conversation.”

Opening the series is four-star Naval Officer and former Supreme Allied Commander for NATO, Admiral James Stavridis. His talk on Sept. 25 will draw from his background in international relations and his experience as a senior military analyst for CNN. On Oct. 16, Laurie Santos, Ph.D. and professor of psychology at Yale University, will discuss how using positive psychology can lead to a happier life. In addition to hosting her award-winning podcast, “The Happiness Lab,” she teaches Yale’s most popular course in over 300 years, “The Science of Well-Being.”

Two-time Emmy nominee and Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalist Lynsey Addario has reported on crises in Ukraine, Afghanistan and Syria. Her talk on Nov. 6 is titled “Love + War: Stories of Tragedy & Resilience from Around the World.”

“Jeopardy!” host Ken Jennings, who still holds the record for most consecutive games won by a contestant (74), will visit Tulsa on Feb. 12. He will discuss a wide range of topics, including insider stories from his time on the popular trivia show.

The season will conclude on March 12 with Patrick McGee, an acclaimed author and journalist with a decade of experience covering Silicon Valley giants, digital advertising and global financial markets.

Tickets are sold as a full season subscription — $125 for all five talks. O’Connor notes subscription holders can transfer any tickets they don’t plan on using to friends or family members.

With over 60% of subscriptions already claimed, Collins believes they will likely sell out by the end of the summer. Each event will take place at the Tulsa Performing Arts Center from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Learn more and purchase a season subscription at tulsatownhall.com. tp 8 TulsaPeople JULY 2026

MEMORY LANE

40 years of TulsaPeople SURPRISE SHOW AT EASTON AND MAIN On July 20, 2021, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees Green Day performed a surprise show at Cain’s Ballroom ahead of their Hella Mega Tour that kicked off that following Saturday in Dallas. It was their first show since the COVID-19 pandemic shut down venues worldwide.

Announced the previous day, the concert sold out in minutes. Around 1,800 concertgoers gathered to see the band play an 18-song setlist that spanned their discography, including the new-at-the-time single “Pollyanna.” They also covered the KISS classic “Rock and Roll All Nite.”

TulsaPeople Videographer Greg Bollinger was there to capture scenes from the show, along with local photographer Phil Clarkin, whose work will be on display this month at Public Images Gallery. Read more about it on p. 19, and find Bollinger’s shots from the show at tulsapeople.com.

— STAFF REPORTS

GREG BOLLINGER

Presenting perspectives

Green Day frontman Billie Joe Armstrong at Cain's Ballroom.

SUNDAY EXPRESS

NOVEMBER 18-29 | TULSA PAC | CELEBRITYATTRACTIONS.COM

A CAMERON MACKINTOSH & LW ENTERTAINMENT PRODUCTION

CITY DESK

TULSA 10

JULY COMPILED BY MARY A. SMITH

VISIT TULSAPEOPLE.COM FOR TULSA 10 WEEKLY RUNDOWNS.

Select days July-Aug. 1 CAMP GUTHRIE Throughout July, Guthrie Green is hosting weekly educational youth camps with themes including STEAM, biology, reading, teamwork and a Route 66 history session to celebrate the Mother Road’s Centennial. guthriegreen.com July 1-10 PLNK | TEN To celebrate 10 years in business, PLNK Fitness is throwing a 10-day long birthday party — and you’re invited! Festivities at the nearly 6-year-old Tulsa studio in Brookside will include a French 75-themed 75-minute workshop, a full day of “2016 Throwback” classes and more. plnkfi tness.com July 12 HATEBREED Forget about the Sunday scaries and let loose at Cain’s Ballroom with Hatebreed, a metalcore band performing along with other hardcore punk bands such as Devourment, Snuffed on Sight and more. cainsballroom.com July 16-23 ‘THE ODYSSEY’ ON 35MM Purchase your tickets today for the first week of exclusive 35mm film showings of Christopher Nolan’s upcoming mythic action release, “The Odyssey,” at Circle Cinema. circlecinema.org July 18 BLACK WALL STREET FOOD FESTIVAL Head to the Historic Greenwood District to fill up at the Black Wall Street Food Festival. Jesse Foster of J RAY’S BBQ has organized this free admission event alongside his wife, Tarina Foster. The festivities will showcase more than 50 vendors.

Black Wall Street Food Festival DAYTIME DISCO Get your groove on at St. Vitus during Tulsa CARES’ Daytime Disco fundraiser. While you must be 21+ to get into the “Disco Rodeo” themed event, Tulsa CARES will have health resources available including information about its new STI testing and PrEP initiatives. pp.events/daytimedisco

Geneva Horsechief-Hamilton at the 73rd Annual Tulsa Powwow

July 25-26 74TH ANNUAL TULSA POWWOW The Tulsa Indian Club will again host its two-day Powwow at the Arvest Convention Center.

All are welcome to enjoy the festivities, which will feature local food vendors, arts and crafts, contests and dances. tulsaindianclub.org/tulsa-powwow 10 TulsaPeople JULY 2026

July 25 MAS TULSA: A CARIBBEAN CARNIVALE EXPERIENCE Local restaurant Sisserou’s is hosting their annual Caribbean festival from 5-10 p.m. at Guthrie Green highlighting Caribbean culture through music, dance and cuisine. eventbrite.com/e/mas-tulsa FC TULSA VS. LEXINGTON SC It’s Christmas in July at the ONEOK Field. Join FC Tulsa in their themed “Christmas in July Night.” An ugly shirt giveaway will be taking place during the event and Santa will be present. fctulsa.com tp

RUSSELL SUN EAGLE OF VNN OKLAHOMA

July 23-26 TULSA FRINGE FESTIVAL The Tulsa Fringe Festival returns for a second year of festivities hosted by Oklahomans for Equality. The multi-day event highlights various arts such as musical theater, spoken word, dance and more. tulsafringe.org

PARADISE NEVER SOUNDED So Good

Tickets On Sale Now!

FLATLAND CAVALRY JULY 9 CANDLEBOX JULY 11 STEVE TREVIÑO JULY 23 THUNDER FROM DOWN UNDER AUG 1 THE STRAY CATS AUG 7

To Purchase Tickets Visit RIVERSPIRITTULSA.COM

or Call 888.748.3731

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

SCAN TO SAVE YOUR SEATS

Entertainment schedule subject to change.

Must be 21 to enter.

CITY DESK

CALENDAR

JULY 4 BARTLESVILLE FOURTH OF JULY FREEDOMFEST Celebrate the Fourth of July with inflatables, fireworks, games, parades and more!

Sooner Park, 420 SE. Madison Blvd., Bartlesville visitbartlesville.com DO THE RED, WHITE & BREW PUB CRAWL IN DOWNTOWN TULSA! Buy online tickets and dress up in your finest patriotic looks for this self-guided pub crawl that visits Arnie’s Bar, Bourbon St. Café, McNellie’s and more.

Starts at 318 E. Second St. S. dothecrawl.com/Tulsa/Brew

LOOKING FOR MORE PLACES TO CELEBRATE THE FOURTH OF JULY IN GREEN COUNTRY? CHECK OUT OUR COMPREHENSIVE LIST HERE.

ELVIS: BACK IN THE BUILDING Cote Deonath recreates the legendary Elvis Presley show at the Mabee Center, exactly 50 years after his iconic Independence Day concert.

The Mabee Center, 7777 S. Lewis Ave. mabeecenter.com

Here comes the boom Independence Day celebrations in Tulsa.

BY MICHAEL SEARLES THROUGH JULY 5 CASTLE FIREWORKS SALE 2026 Step inside the 30,000-square-foot showroom at Castle of Muskogee and browse over 500 different firework products to customize your Fourth of July show. Prepackaged and sensory-considerate options are available.

The Castle of Muskogee, 3400 W. Fern Mountain Road, Muskogee • okcastle.com

JULY 3 12TH ANNUAL BIXBY FREEDOM CELEBRATION Bring the family for festive fun including a Kids’ Zone playground, food truck favorites, and special celebrations honoring new military recruits — capped off with a fireworks finale at 9:45 p.m.

Bentley Park, 8505 E. 148th St. S., Bixby bixbyfreedomcelebration.com

JULY 2 AMERICA’S BIRTHDAY BASH The Signature Symphony presents its annual Independence Day concert that blends patriotic tunes with cinematic classics, featuring work from iconic composers like John Williams and John Philip Sousa.

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

FREEDOM CELEBRATION Near Happy Acres Cowboy Church, families will gather to celebrate America’s 250th Independence Day. Gates open at 6 p.m. and conclude with a fireworks show, courtesy of the Boom Brothers.

5270 W. 171st St. S., Kiefer • crossbararena.com

STARS, STRIPES AND THE EAGLE FLY WITH AARON TIPPIN Country music star Aaron Tippin (“You’ve Got to Stand for Something,” “Kiss This,” and “There Ain’t Nothin’ Wrong with the Radio”) visits Tulsa’s Hard Rock Live, bringing his all-American charm to this 250th anniversary celebration.

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa, 777 W. Cherokee St., Catoosa • tickets.hardrockcasinotulsa.com

12 TulsaPeople JULY 2026

PIER 51 2026 FIREWORKS SHOW Gather your family along the waterfront for the annual fireworks show at Pier 51 Marina, launching at approximately 9 p.m.

Pier 51 Marina, 1926 S. Highway 151, Sand Springs pier51keystone.com SAND SPRINGS 2026 STAR-SPANGLED SALUTE This free Independence Day celebration has music, food and fun for the whole family that caps off with a stellar fireworks display.

Case Community Park, 2500 S. River City Park Road, Sand Springs • sandspringsok.gov

FIRECRACKER 5K (BY GOLDEN DRILLER RACING) The largest 5K of Tulsa’s summer kicks off Independence Day with a stroller race, 5K and Fun Run, with an afterparty featuring live music, food and drinks.

Santa Fe Square, 415 E. Second St. runsignup.com FOLDS OF HONOR FREEDOMFEST Since 1976 the annual Folds of Honor FreedomFest presents one of the largest free fireworks displays in Oklahoma.

River West Festival Park, 2100 S. Jackson Ave.; Zink Lake Watch Zone, 1800 S. Riverside Drive freedomfesttulsa.com JENKS BOOMFEST 2026 The City of Jenks, Oklahoma Aquarium and Jenks Riverwalk will host celebratory events on July 4 leading up to one of the largest fireworks displays in the region.

Oklahoma Aquarium, 300 Aquarium Drive, Jenks okaquarium.org OWASSO’S RED, WHITE & BOOM FIREWORK SHOW Enjoy food trucks, lawn games, live music and much more before fireworks light up the sky — and win prizes in the second annual watermelon eating competition!

Redbud Festival Park, 109 N. Main St., Owasso cityofowasso.com RASCALS ON ROUTE 66 Celebrate two milestone anniversaries — the Route 66 Centennial and America’s 250th Independence Day — with a soap box derby along the Mother Road. Sign up to race your homemade push cart in one of four age categories.

Sapulpa Main Street and East Dewey Avenue rascalsonroute66.com SACRAMENTO REPUBLIC AT FC TULSA Join FC Tulsa as they take on Sacramento Republic in this Fourth of July spectacular, complete with a postgame fireworks show.

ONEOK Field, 201 N. Elgin Ave. • fctulsa.com tp

GREG BOLLINGER

Folds of Honor FreedomFest

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.

2026 Firefighter of the Year Patrick “Frankie” Young Firefighter Young has 22 years of dedicated TFD service exemplifying his commitment, integrity and selfless leadership. Beyond being a devout firefighter, he is the mayor and Ward 2 City Councilor of Skiatook. Mayor Young’s position reflects his leadership abilities and willingness to step up whenever needed.

He serves our community with humility and dedication. At Christmastime, he collects funds to donate food and gifts to families in need. He volunteers at the American Therapeutic Riding Academy where his son and special-needs individuals enjoy horseback riding. He has assisted in Tulsa Fire Museum fund raisers, donated time as a storyteller for its childhood literacy program, and volunteers at the Tim Tebow Foundation’s Tulsa Night to Shine.

His award was presented in honor of late Tulsa Fire Chief E. Stanley Hawkins. He received a trophy, pin and ribbon, plus overnight stay and dinner for two at The Mayo Hotel. In his name and in the spirit of service that defines this award, $3,750 was donated to Little Light House and $3,750 to American Therapeutic Riding Center.

Patrick “Frankie” Young

2026 Police Officer of the Year Detective Aubrey Williams Detective Williams has served the TPD for six years. For the last two and a half years she has been in the Sexual Predator Investigation and Digital Evidence Recovery unit (SPIDER).

She conducts complex investigations targeting online sexual predators who exploit children. She volunteered to be an electronic device detention K9’s handler which is a specialized role requiring extensive training, maintenance and an investment of her time beyond regular duties.

She and K9 Ripley have conducted more than 50 presentations to schools, churches and community organizations where she educates children, parents, and others about online safety, digital awareness, and the realities of internet-based exploitation. Her presentations not only highlight K9 Ripley’s capabilities, but more importantly, empower families with knowledge to protect themselves.

Detective Aubrey Williams and K-9 Ripley

She received a trophy, pin and ribbon, plus overnight stay and dinner for two at The Mayo Hotel. In her name and in the spirit of service that defines this award, $3,500 was donated to the Tulsa Child Advocacy Network and $4,000 to The Hope Center Indy, Inc.’s K9 Training Program.

2026 George B. Hamilton Special Awards Recipients were TFD CARES (Community Assistance, Referrals and Education Services) case managers Stephanie Silva and Dee Watkins and TPD’s Real-Time Information Center’s (RTIC) commander Captain Shane Tuell. In their names, $2,000 was donated to the Tulsa Firefighters Benevolent Fund and $2,000 to the Tulsa Police Officers Memorial Fund.

Presenting sponsor:

Media sponsor:

The 2025 Above and Beyond Awards is available for viewing on Rotary Club of Tulsa YouTube. For more information, visit tulsarotary.com.

CITY DESK

IN CONVERSATION

Arts Alliance Tulsa Executive Director Anna Inhofe-Hull, who took on the role in January.

Executive Director of Arts Alliance Tulsa

BY LAUREN ROGERS FIND A LONGER VERSION OF THIS CONVERSATION AT TUSAPEOPLE.COM.

14 TulsaPeople JULY 2026

A

GREG BOLLINGER

ANNA INHOFE-HULL

morning drizzle cleared up just in time for our photo shoot and chat with Arts Alliance Tulsa’s new Executive Director Anna Inhofe-Hull. We walked from AAT headquarters, (fittingly in the heart of the Tulsa Arts District at 203 N. Main St., Suite 212) to a mural that AAT commissioned Tulsa artist Yatika Starr Fields (Cherokee, Creek and Osage) to create at 8 W. Cameron St. One of 40 United Arts Funds — organizations that raise money from individuals, businesses and foundations to bolster nonprofit arts organizations across the community — AAT welcomed Inhofe-Hull as its new executive director in January following the retirement of longtime leader Todd Cunningham.

While she took on this role Jan. 1, Inhofe-Hull is no stranger to the organization, having served as AAT’s development director earlier in her career. That alone is a key position for an organization dedicated to providing ongoing operating support via unrestricted funds for local institutions like Philbrook Museum and Clark Youth Theater. A lawyer by training, with a J.D. from University of Oklahoma, Inhofe-Hull brings a hyper-analytical perspective to the position.

In her office situated right above The Tavern, Inhofe-Hull and I had a chance to chat about all things arts in Tulsa.

SO YOU GREW UP IN TULSA AND ARE A BOOKER T. GRAD. WHAT HAS IT BEEN LIKE TO WATCH THE CITY’S ARTS SCENE EVOLVE OVER THE YEARS? Downtown was so sleepy. I remember when McNellie's opened and it felt like one of the fi rst signals that downtown was coming back to life. The growth has continued so much so that we see non-arts centered businesses moving and building new offices in the Arts District, adding to the energy created by ONEOK Field. You can see the continued investment throughout the district with people wanting to live in the district. The Davenport and Western Supply are recent additions just steps from Cain's Ballroom, the future home of OKPOP and the everyday creativity that defi nes the Arts District.

I’d note, though, that there’s this momentum spreading across the city, not just in this area. The arts should be able to exist in all pockets of the city.

Understanding that transportation can sometimes be an issue, we are focusing on how we can lessen that barrier. We are being thoughtful in addressing areas where we may need to have added support, so that (the arts) really are accessible for everyone.

ARE YOU AN ARTIST YOURSELF? I love trying, but I would not consider myself a natural. I grew up in the ballet with Miss Larkin, but decided to not continue pursuing that in the eighth grade.

I have bad feet — absolutely no arch — so I knew being a professional was not in my wheelhouse. I loved it, but going six days a week was a lot when you’re 13.

My mom created this world where my perspective was constantly informed by the arts. She was a docent at Philbrook, she helped bring Chautauqua here with the Arts and Humanities Council, enrolled me in Kindermusik ... Opera, workshops,

“The future of Tulsa’s arts community is not something that happens to us.

It is something we create together.

Whether through attendance, advocacy, volunteerism or philanthropy, everyone has a role to play.”

—ANNA INHOFE-HULL performances — if it was arts-related, she took me.

I took art in school, but it was a lot more trying than having a natural flow.

Piano was much the same. I continued with lessons through high school, and I can play some scales, but I can’t sit there and just let me fi ngers fly.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE TULSA’S ARTS SCENE TO AN OUTSIDER? Tulsa offers a remarkable combination of sophistication and accessibility. Not many others can boast having a symphony, ballet and an opera, while at the same time having 40+ organizations that provide opportunities for people of all ages to identify with a creative outlet. With camps and after-school programs year-round, there are open entry points. Try something! Tulsa Glass Blowing, WaterWorks Art Center, even Fab Lab and Tulsa Botanic Garden

have artistic elements. In Tulsa, it's almost harder not to encounter the arts than it is to seek them out. You don't have to be an artist to appreciate the value of creativity.

The arts bring humanity, perspective, and connection to our daily lives, and we need that now more than ever.

AS AAT HEADS INTO ITS SECOND DECADE, WHAT ARE YOU MOST FOCUSED ON? What excites me most about this moment is that the question before us is not whether Tulsa values the arts. We know it does. We see it in the audiences, the volunteers, the artists, the donors and the organizations that continue to create extraordinary work throughout our community.

The question is whether we are willing to invest in that shared vision together.

Arts Alliance Tulsa was created on the belief that our arts organizations are stronger collectively than they are individually, and that a healthy arts ecosystem requires connective tissue as well as great institutions. We have an opportunity to strengthen that model for the next decade and to build something that is more sustainable, more collaborative and more impactful than any one organization could accomplish alone.

The future of Tulsa’s arts community is not something that happens to us. It is something we create together. Whether through attendance, advocacy, volunteerism or philanthropy, everyone has a role to play.

AAT’S THIRD ANNUAL ARTINI FUNDRAISER IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER (AUGUST 15) AT 101 ARCHER. WHAT CAN PEOPLE EXPECT THIS YEAR? ARTini is our "non-gala gala.” It’s not sitdown; it’s interactive. Each year, attendees are embracing the fashion component a little more, showcasing a growing interest in local fashion and design. We want people to participate at whatever level feels comfortable.

We’re looking at about 12 to 13 different restaurants that are super excited to come back with a martini and curated bite. We will have a panel of local figures judging for best martini along with a People’s choice award. Th is year we're also introducing an art catalog that we hope becomes a keepsake for attendees. The amount of work, the quality of work, the caliber that we’re seeing every year just gets better and better. tp LEARN MORE ABOUT ARTS ALLIANCE TULSA AND PURCHASE ARTINI TICKETS AT ARTSTULSA.ORG. TulsaPeople.com 15

CITY DESK

Tyra Lewis, also known as GOLDIELXCS, founded SK8 DATE to provide inclusive, substance-free community skate sessions at rotating Tulsa Parks. (Due to rain, June’s event took place at Crossover Sports and Fitness.)

Skate in the 918 Nonprofit organizes free monthly skating meetups for all ages and experience levels.

BY FAITH HARL

W

hen 27-year-old Tyra Lewis relocated from Dallas to Tulsa, she never dreamed that the skating meetups she organized as a way to meet people during the summer of 2024 would eventually turn into a full-fledged nonprofit called SK8 DATE.

16 TulsaPeople JULY 2026

At fi rst, Lewis — better known as “GOLDIELXCS” (pronounced like Goldilocks) — was simply inviting a handful of acquaintances and friends to join her for casual skating sessions around town.

But as the word got out, more and more people started showing up to join in on the fun. Organizing the program with the help

of a small group of dedicated volunteers, GOLDIELXCS took to social media in April to officially announce SK8 DATE’s nonprofit status.

“I’m so grateful, because who would’ve thought?” GOLDIELXCS says while reflecting on the experience. “I never envisioned doing any of this. It’s kind of surreal sometimes — not me starting a whole business!”

Now in its third annual season, which runs from May to October, SK8 DATE brings together 50-plus people the second Thursday of every month for an evening of safe, sober fun. Each “rink style” meetup takes place at a rotating Tulsa park location — typically on a tennis or basketball court — and features a live DJ, as well as complimentary food and drinks. GOLDIELXCS works with Tulsa Parks and Recreation to secure permits for the events, and Tulsa Parks has purchased additional skates for participants to use for free during sessions.

SK8 DATE also maintains a community-supported lending library of skates, made possible through both individual donations and on-hand inventory, ensuring participants can join regardless of whether they own a pair.

Among the many Tulsans who have found a new community within SK8 DATE is Tulsa-based visual artist Aunj Braggs. A novice skater, Braggs appreciates that SK8 DATE allows people of all skill levels to participate. “If I fall, I’m learning,” she says. “Not everyone has to be good at skating (to participate).”

Inspired by the program’s diversity, Braggs joined SK8 DATE’s board of directors as GOLDIELXCS began working on solidifying its nonprofit status. “It’s bridging communities together that would normally never touch each other, but they all have a love for skating,” Braggs explains.

SK8 DATE’s next event will take place July 9 at McClure Park from 7-9 p.m.

People of all ages and experience levels are welcome — check out @sk8.date learn more.

To support the organization, financial contributions can be made at sk8date.org.

SK8 DATE also accepts skate donations; drop them off at an event or send them an Instagram message to coordinate. tp

GREG BOLLINGER

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CITY DESK

BOOKWORM

VISIT TULSAPEOPLE.COM TO READ THE FULL CONVERSATION.

A storied life Writer Marjan Kamali to speak at Central Library July 31.

BY TIFFANY HOWARD

T

ulsa City-County Library will welcome New York Times bestselling author Marjan Kamali to the Central Library July 31 for a conversation about her book, “The Lion Women of Tehran.” The powerful novel of friendship, betrayal and redemption set against three transformative decades in Iran is TCCL’s selection for this year’s One Book, One Tulsa — an annual summer program encouraging Tulsans to read the same book and share thoughtful conversations on a meaningful story.

Born in Turkey to Iranian parents and living in multiple countries growing up — including Iran and the U.S. — Kamali is also the author of “The Stationery Shop” and “Together Tea.” Her novels have been published in more than 30 languages, and she is a 2022 recipient of the National Endowment for the Arts Creative Writing Fellowship.

Get to know a bit about Kamali and “The Lion Women of Tehran” in this conversation we had with her ahead of her Tulsa visit, and learn more about this year’s One Book, One Tulsa at tulsalibrary.org/ one-book-one-tulsa.

18 TulsaPeople JULY 2026

THE TITLE IS SO EVOCATIVE. CAN YOU GIVE READERS SOME CULTURAL CONTEXT AROUND WHAT “LION WOMEN” MEANS IN IRAN, AND HOW THE TERM INFORMS THE PLOT OF THE NOVEL? The term “lion women” is a direct translation from the Persian shir zan. This term describes women who are fierce, brave, unstoppable and audacious.

I connected the historical and cultural concept of “lion women” to the plot of my novel by having one of my characters, Homa, be a quintessential lion woman. If Homa sees a wrong, she wants to right it, and from a very young age she works hard to improve her community. As a university student, she becomes a political activist who fights for justice and for women’s rights. Homa’s friendship with Ellie influences Ellie and makes her want to become a lion woman as well. However, Ellie lacks Homa’s innate confidence and has a domineering mother whose judgment and opinions create issues for her own sense of self and for her relationships.

TELL TULSA READERS A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOURSELF AND YOUR BACKGROUND, AND IF/HOW THAT TIES INTO “THE LION WOMEN OF TEHRAN”?

THE STORY TAKES PLACE OVER MULTIPLE DECADES, STARTING IN THE 1950S. WHAT WAS YOUR RESEARCH PROCESS LIKE TO WRITE ABOUT THE IRAN THAT THE TWO PRINCIPAL CHARACTERS, ELLIE AND HOMA, GREW UP IN? I deliberately made Ellie and Homa born in 1943 so I could show how the rights for women in Iran increased in the 1940s and 1950s, how women got the right to vote and better marriage and child custody laws in the 1960s, and how it felt like women would progress and “own the world,” as Homa says, in the 1970s — only for all of that to change after the revolution of 1979. In this way, I tried to have the backdrop of the women’s rights movement mirror the arc of Ellie and Homa’s lives.

For my research, I interviewed older women in my family at great length. I realized how much my mother’s generation gained all these rights by fighting hard and refusing to be discouraged. The increase of rights happened because of lion women like Homa. Which made it even more heart-breaking when those hard-won rights were taken away and the progress was erased. But the fight continues.

Even today, the lion women in Iran continue the fight.

THE NOVEL OFFERS A PORTRAIT OF IRAN THAT SOME WESTERN READERS MAY NOT HAVE ENCOUNTERED — FULL OF WARMTH, INTELLECTUAL LIFE, FOOD, ACTIVISM AND JOY. WAS RECLAIMING THAT FULLER PICTURE IMPORTANT TO YOU? Reclaiming the fuller picture was very important to me. In my growing up years, Iranians were painted with a very broad brush in books, movies and TV shows. The men were mostly portrayed as terrorists, and the women were inevitably submissive. But where were all the funny and bold and complex and frustrating people, and lovers of music and dancing and food I knew?

I made writing about Iranian people a central mission of my life ... With all of my work, I hope I am providing a more nuanced, complex, and fun view into Iran and Iranians. tp

BOOK: COURTESY; KAMALI; DAVID E. LAWRENCE; WHITE: GREG BOLLINGER; BRYAN: PHIL CLARKIN

“The Lion Women of Tehran” author Marjan Kamali is Tulsa City-County Library’s 2026 One Book, One Tulsa pick.

I lived in Iran between the ages of 2 and 5, and again from 9 to 10 1/2. That second segment was during a very pivotal time in Iran’s history: it was right after the revolution of 1979 and during the beginning of the war. In those difficult days, I found great comfort in spending time with my best friend. We played every day, did homework together and shared our dreams of who we’d grow up to be. But we also shared fears that come with growing up during a war and being young girls in a religious autocratic state.

During the Iran-Iraq war of the 1980s, I spent many nights in the basement as bombs fell. Every time I made it back upstairs, I was deeply aware of the chance I had been given to live. At age ten, when I arrived in New York City with my best friend still in Iran, I knew I had to live doubly hard for both of us. For a few years, my friend and I exchanged letters. But then we lost touch. During the pandemic, when I saw her posts on Instagram, a flood of memories came back and sparked the emotional foundation of this novel.

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Public Images Gallery co-owner Larry White.

Inset, a photo of Zach Bryan which will be included in the gallery’s upcoming show spotlighting Tulsan Phil Clarkin and Nashville-based Jeff Fasano.

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Music and more

New Route 66 gallery to showcase multifaceted photography exhibition.

A

fter a successful May opening, Public Images Gallery at 1507 E. 11th St. is launching its second exhibition July 15 with imagery by two photographers who have built careers capturing legendary musicians. You may recognize the locations in some of the photos; in fact, you’ve probably even been to a few.

“The Sound of Light” will showcase work by Tulsan Phil Clarkin, known for his pictures of concerts at the BOK Center, Cain’s Ballroom and other local venues. Clarkin’s photography will be shown alongside images by Nashville-based Jeff Fasano, who has previously spoken about his nationally recognized music photography at the Woody Guthrie Center.

Driven by a love of photography and his early roots in the music business, gallery co-owner Larry White opened Public Images Gallery with business partner Robert Stuart.

“In 1965, when I was a junior in high school, I shot The Beatles in San Francisco,” White says. “That really kind of got me into concert photography.”

At age 16, he managed The Baytovens (of the Bay Area), which set the stage for his career in the music business as a promoter, manager, then music executive at MCA Records and Warner Brothers. White ultimately moved to Tulsa because of his work with BRONCHO and its frontman Ryan Lindsey in 2011.

“With all the bands that I toured with over the years, I became friends with photographers from around the world that were shooting concerts,” he says.

One of those friends is Henry Diltz, photographer behind the gallery’s opening exhibition that featured iconic images of Joni Mitchell, James Taylor, Jimmy Hendrix, Kurt Cobain, The Monkees and The Doors. David Crosby holding a fan-made stuffed American flag gun. Richard Pryor, dukes raised in front of an American flag backdrop. Keith Richards on the tarmac with a bottle of Jack — all moments captured by Diltz, and stories White knows by heart.

Now White is eager to expand the reach of a local legend like Clarkin. “My friend Ted Cohen, a music industry professional who’s now here in Tulsa, refers to Phil as the Henry Diltz of Tulsa.”— BLAYKLEE FREED

“ Now more than ever, our world needs compassion. Catholic Charities lives this out by serving people of all faiths with dignity and mercy—meeting them where they are and responding to real human need, which is at the heart of why I serve.

Together, we are Love Changing Lives.”

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cceok.org

TulsaPeople.com 19

CITY DESK

Beginning July 18, see a retrospective exhibit of prolific Tulsa photographer Don Thompson’s body of work at The Hulett Collection, 1311 E. 15th St.

LEGACY OF THE LENS Don Thompson’s latest exhibition opens July 18 at The Hulett Collection.

BY BLAYKLEE FREED 20 TulsaPeople JULY 2026

W

hen Michael Hulett opened his fine art photo gallery in 2022, he had no idea that one of his most frequent visitors was also one of Tulsa’s most prolific photographers.

At fi rst, Don Thompson and his wife Barbara were just familiar faces at The Hulett Collection. They didn’t talk much, but “very much paid attention to what I was showing, and eventually Barbara introduced herself to me,” Hulett says.

It was through her that Hulett learned of Thompson’s expansive body of work documenting Tulsa beginning in the 1960s, including Greenwood business owners, neighbors, survivors of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre and their descendants.

Hulett was struck by the depth of Thompson’s work. “When you talk about photographers that have made an indelible mark on the history of photography, and Tulsa’s in that conversation, really one name comes up, and that’s (usually) Larry Clark … (then) Gaylord Oscar Herron,” he says.

“Well, Don Thompson deserves and needs to be in that conversation, because he has produced such a powerful body of work over the last 60 years.”

To highlight the caliber and importance of Thompson’s photographs, Hulett worked together with the Thompsons to curate a selection of around 35 for “Visions of Time and Transformation,” a retrospective exhibit opening July 18 at The Hulett Collection.

“We’re spanning 60 years of his photography across multiple different series, from his vintage early works made in Greenwood to his Polaroid manipulation explorations ... and then his most recent work, where he’s returned back to documentary black and white photography,” Hulett explains.

In addition to his documentarian work, Thompson’s still life work will also be displayed.

“It’s all beautiful,” Hulett says. “He has such a strong eye for composition and narrative in an image, so even his still life florals are absolutely gorgeous and provocative, emotionally.”

Hulett’s upcoming show is just the latest for Thompson, whose work is part of the collection at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture. A permanent collection of Thompson’s portraits, “Black Settlers in Tulsa: The Search for the Promised Land,” is on display in the Conference Center auditorium at Oklahoma State University - Tulsa.

“Visions of Time and Transformation” will run until Sept. 5. The opening artist reception is 5-7 p.m. on July 18, with light snacks and drinks, as well as a talk from Thompson at 6 p.m. tp

DON THOMPSON, COURTESY HULETT COLLECTION; HELMERICH CENTER: GREG BOLLINGER

ON EXHIBIT

Left, Gilcrease members were able to view the museum’s certified, handwritten copy of the Declaration of Independence ahead of the opening of the “Indigenous Independence: America at 250” exhibition.

Inset, Director of The Helmerich Center for American Research and Cherokee Nation citizen William Smith, Ph.D.

‘Indigenous Independence’ Dive into U.S. history with Gilcrease Museum at the Helmerich Center for American Research.

BY KAMRON WILLIAMS

I

n honor of the United States’ 250th Anniversary, Gilcrease Museum is welcoming the public to explore a new exhibition inside The Helmerich Center for American Research at 1400 N. Gilcrease Museum Road. “Indigenous Independence: America at 250” presents rare books, manuscripts and artwork from the Gilcrease collection that portray the American Revolution as more than just a separation from Great Britain. The exhibition emphasizes the broader, prolonged history of confl ict between American colonists and tribal nations, demonstrating that the American Revolution was a struggle over lands and independence for both Indigenous peoples and American colonists.

Director of The Helmerich Center for American Research and Cherokee Nation citizen William Smith, Ph.D., says the selection of artwork, documents and items

on display “illustrates the larger themes of Indigenous independence and the importance of Native peoples in the story of America’s founding.”

The exhibition will include an array of historical objects and artworks including books, maps, statues and regalia. “We’ll have a couple of the significant peace medals from the colonial and revolutionary periods on the walls, so people can see and learn about their context,” Smith says, explaining that Native Americans used these artifacts as diplomacy tools during the colonial period and all the way through the 19th century.

In addition to the real peace medals, Gilcrease will also display enlarged, 3D printed replicas to encourage hands-on interaction. “They’ll be on two pedestals,” Smith says, “so people will be able to touch, feel and experience them.”

Among the items featured in the

exhibition is a marble bust of Benjamin Franklin, created circa 1850 by Hiram Powers, one of the most influential American sculptors in the 19th century.

Other notable items include documents carried by Paul Revere in 1775 and writings by George Washington and Thomas Jefferson from the American Revolution, including Washington’s 1779 speech to the Lenape (Delaware) Nation.

On July 11, there is an already sold-out opportunity to see the museum’s certified handwritten copy of The Declaration of Independence, which Franklin and Silas Dean sent to Prussia’s Minister of Trade to secure a diplomatic relationship at the beginning of the Revolution. Both Franklin and Dean signed the document, which is rarely on view to the public due to its sensitivity to light.

Museum Founder Thomas Gilcrease fi rst saw the Declaration of Independence on The Freedom Train, an exhibition that traveled the country from 1947-1949, aiming to connect the general public with U.S. history. Inspired by being face-to-face with these documents for the fi rst time, Gilcrease reached out to private collectors and acquired his own copy of the Declaration. The document will also be on display in the new Gilcrease Museum when it opens.

The exhibition provides art and history fans a chance to reconnect with the Gilcrease collection in person, as the museum has been closed for reconstruction since 2021. “It will be a really great moment to welcome people back, and I hope that they take inspiration from it,” Smith says.

“As we journey ahead as Americans into the unknown, I think we will constantly be relying on the past, and on understandings of what the past has meant, to help us move forward together.”

The Helmerich Center for American Research will be open to the public June 15 through August 7, excluding July 3.

Visitors can view the exhibition Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with extended hours on Thursdays until 7 p.m.

Guided tours will also be available at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

The main museum building is preparing to open in early 2027. Both Gilcrease Museum and The Helmerich Center for American Research are managed by The University of Tulsa in partnership with the City of Tulsa. Visit gilcrease.org to learn more and join a waitlist to potentially view Gilcrease’s Declaration of Independence. tp TulsaPeople.com 21

CITY DESK

MUSIC NOTES

Capturing magic Rubyland’s first record showcases the band’s theatrical on-stage energy.

BY JULIE WENGER WATSON

“D

ecoherent Song,” the second single from the upcoming debut album of art-rock band Rubyland, is out on all major streaming platforms July 24, with a release celebration that same evening at Tyler Th rasher’s Moonbeam Conservatory (2421 E. Admiral Boulevard). Although

22 TulsaPeople JULY 2026

the record is a fi rst for the group — which is made up of Annie Ellicott, David Broome, Nicholas Foster, Jordan Hehl, Mark Southerland and Peter Tomshany — they’ve been performing together for several years, and the concept dates back even further.

“Rubyland is a bit of a mutated expansion from a trio I had with Brian Haas and Mark Southerland in 2017,” says Ellicott, who co-founded the project with the other five current members. “It’s had a long, organic formation.”

Renowned as a jazz vocalist, Ellicott’s talents extend to songwriting, acting and even stagecraft, and she brings a wonderful element of performance art to everything she does.

“I’m steeped in the theater arts. It was as much a foundation for my career as music,” she says. “I grew up constantly involved in community theater, and I was a member of the Tulsa Youth Opera. I was also a huge movie buff when I was younger. I’ve always been drawn to artistic mediums that engage all of the senses.”

Scott Bell is producing and recording the new album. He’s worked with Ellicott on multiple occasions and describes Rubyland as “an amazing theatrical force,” with performances that include costumes, stage props, lighting and, occasionally, haze. Both Bell and Ellicott hope to capture some of that live magic on the record.

“We’re really focused on translating that visual aspect into audio,” Ellicott says. “I only have poetic terms for it, and Scott is the bridge that connects the gulf between the poetic and the technical. He has a foot planted solidly in both worlds.”

Bell, who is also a musician and artist, is inspired by Ellicott and the band’s creativity.

“It does the thing art’s supposed to do the most, which is to sort of trip you up and make you ask questions,” he says. “I think there’s a great depth in the music that they deliver with this crazy amount of humor, and humor as a vehicle for knowledge is one of the finest of arts in my opinion.”

For more, visit @rubylandband or annieellicott.com. tp

GREG BOLLINGER

Alt-rock band Rubyland is comprised of (from left) Jordan Hehl, Peter Tomshany, Mark Southerland, Annie Ellicott, Nicholas Foster and David Broome.

UNT-26-002-Mayo-TPAd-1:2-Final.indd 1

TulsaPeople.com 6/19/26 10:48 AM23

CITY DESK

MUSIC NOTES

Above, Tulsa Community College Signature Symphony Artistic Director Scott Seaton rehearsing with the ensemble.

Below, incoming Glenpool High School sophomore Abby Letney, who will perform at the symphony’s “America’s Birthday Bash” July 2.

Let freedom sing Celebrate 250 years of American music with Signature Symphony.

BY MARY A. SMITH 24 TulsaPeople JULY 2026

SIGNATURE SYMPHONY: SEAN CAPSHAW; ‘AMPERSAND’: GREG BOLLINGER

A

s the United States of America approaches its 250th anniversary this upcoming Independence Day, Tulsa Community College’s Signature Symphony is preparing for an extra special iteration of its annual “America’s Birthday Bash” concert, taking place this year on July 2.

“Th is year’s Birthday Bash feels especially meaningful because it reflects the American story itself — how the choices of past and present generations shape the future,” says Signature Symphony Artistic Director Scott Seaton.

Seaton notes that this year’s “America’s Birthday Bash” set will honor the milestone year by highlighting a variety of composers that the nation has produced since it was established.

“When you combine that with the iconic sounds of John Williams, the stirring marches of John Philip Sousa, music from the Big Band era, a touch of soul and all the patriotic flair one could hope for, you have a concert that celebrates not only our nation’s birthday, but also the rich musical traditions that have shaped the American experience,” Seaton explains. “It’s a program that beautifully captures 250 years of the American spirit.”

One moment Seaton looks forward to in particular is having Signature Symphony’s founding Artistic Director Barry Epperley narrate composer Aaron Copland’s 1942 spoken-word piece “Lincoln Portrait,” which Seaton says is one of the most powerful patriotic works written in the last century.

“Bringing together the orchestra’s founder, a work that celebrates (Abraham) Lincoln’s enduring ideals and the musicians of today creates a remarkable connection between our history, our community and the generations to come,” Seaton explains.

The concert will also feature a performance from incoming sophomore at Glenpool High School Abby Letney, who was one of eight finalists in Signature Symphony’s “Tulsa Sings: America @ 250” competition held previously in April.

“I’m really looking forward to working with and learning from the amazing maestro, Scott Seaton, as well as singing with such a kind and talented orchestra again,” Letney shares. “I’m so excited to come and just share the experience of beautiful music with everyone.”

Purchase tickets for “America’s Birthday Bash” at the VanTrease Performing Arts Center box office (10300 E. 81st St.) or by visiting signaturesymphony.org, where you can also find Signature Symphony’s full show lineup. tp

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“Folk Salad” radio show co-host Richard Higgs (left) released his first album, ‘Ampersand,’ with the help of friends including musician George Barton (right).

‘Ampersand’

Tulsan releases debut album with a little help from his friends.

A

s the co-host of “Folk Salad,” a weekly music program broadcast on Public Radio Tulsa, Richard Higgs has been sharing other people’s songs for close to three decades. This spring, he decided to release some of his own. “Ampersand” is a collection of eight original songs, that Higgs has written or co-written over the last several years and recorded with the help of his talented friends.

Higgs, who is also a published author, has written songs in the past — several of which have been recorded and released by his musician friends — but this is the first time he’s recorded his own work.

“I just wanted to get them down, to preserve them, share them with some friends,” he says.

Higgs used a keyboard to compose his songs, eventually bringing the lyrics, basic melodies and chord progressions to his buddy, George Barton. Upon receiving the initial compositions, Higgs explains, “George then created the arrangements, played various instruments on every track, sang on some of them, and in a couple of cases, even added additional lyrics.”

The two worked together to develop a final product that far exceeded Higgs’ expectations — something he credits primarily to Barton.

“He continually surprised me, not only with the range and depth of his talents as a musician, singer, arranger and engineer, but also by the level of commitment he brought to the studio on every song,” Higgs says. “The results are so much finer than I could have imagined.”

Higgs is the lead vocalist on the majority of the tracks, which is a first for him. “All my life, I’ve known for a dead solid fact, that I can’t sing,” he says.

However, practicing with his “always-in-tune keyboard,” along with Barton’s patient encouragement, gave Higgs the confidence he needed to find his voice.

“I don’t have much range or power as a singer,” Higgs says. “But I got the job done just fine and am proud of the results.”

In addition to Barton, Tulsa musicians Annie Ellicott (vocals), Chris Foster (piano), Jim Downing (piano), Kurt Neilsen (mandolin) and Jay Lesikar (piano) all lent their talents to the project.

“Music is an inherently cooperative art form,” Higgs says, referring to the album’s title. “It’s all about the ‘and’ among musicians and writers, between performer and audience.”

“Ampersand” is available for streaming on most major platforms or through richardhiggs.bandcamp.com. — JULIE WENGER WATSON

918.744.5901 | @TULSADRILLERS

| TULSADRILLERS.COM

We Welcome You To Attend Sunday Services at Downtown’s Historic Episcopal Church…

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

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

TulsaPeople.com 25

CITY DESK

SPORTS

Dallas Niles, owner and head coach at Method Jiu-Jitsu.

Taking it to the mats Renowned instructor Dallas Niles founded Method in Tulsa to teach Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to all ages.

BY JOHN TRANCHINA 26 TulsaPeople JULY 2026

SPORTS: GREG BOLLINGER; BENEFITS: TOM GILBERT

W

hen Method Jiu-Jitsu owner Dallas Niles fi rst began learning Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu while living in Oklahoma City nineteen years ago, the practice was just intended to enhance his overall training regimen as a mixed martial arts fighter.

“I didn’t know it would become my thing the way it has,” he admits. “I just thought it would be cool to train and see what happens.”

Niles’ love for jiu-jitsu was cemented once he began entering competitions.

“I started competing early on, as a white belt, competing in more local stuff, nothing crazy,” Niles says. “I had mixed results in the beginning, kept training (and) started winning most local stuff I’d enter.”

By the time Niles achieved his black belt, he was competing in more high-profi le international events and building a name for himself in the jiu-jitsu world.

After spending more than a decade as one of the head instructors at the world-renowned Lovato Jiu-Jitsu Headquarters, Niles decided he wanted to branch out and open his own gym.

He knew he didn’t want to compete with his longtime coach and mentor Rafael Lovato — a former Bellator MMA fighter and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu World Champion — so he left OKC to open Method Jiu-Jitsu on the corner of East 81st Street and South Sheridan Road.

“We’ve grown so much over the last three years, it’s pretty crazy, actually, to think of where we are,” Niles says. “I wouldn’t have said this was where I’d be 20 years ago when I started. I had no clue.”

One of the aspects that sets Method Jiu-Jitsu apart from other gyms is Niles’ focus on offering targeted instruction for students based on age, experience and goals.

“Our programs start at four years old, so we’ve got three different age groups of kids, and then we have adults, both fundamental and advanced,” Niles explains. “It is pretty unique.

Most gyms have one class for everybody; they might have a kids’ class and then they have an adult class. I grew up where we had a fundamentals class and an advanced class, which really helps expedite how quickly you can build your skills.”

Niles credits Lovato’s customized tutelage for putting him on this path, and for influencing the way he runs his own gym.

“I was just really lucky that on day one, I got to train with one of the best guys in the world and learn the way he built his systems,” Niles says. “It really helps to be more intentional about where people are on their journey and give people exactly what they need for where they are in their particular journey.”

Learn more about Method Jiu-Jitsu and sign up for classes at methodjjtulsa.com. tp

CITY DESK

BENEFITS

JULY CHARITABLE EVENTS COMPILED BY TIFFANY HOWARD 1-31 Sharklahoma Benefits Oklahoma Aquarium. okaquarium.org 4 Saturday Bingo Benefit Night Benefits Memphis Street Animal Rescue. oklahomapaws.com 11 Polka Party Benefits German-American Society of Tulsa. gastulsa.org Wrestling for a Cause Presents: ExtravaSLAMza Benefits children fighting against cancer.

Wrestling For A Cause

NOSHVILLE A BIG ol’ time was had May 15 at the Noshville fundraising gala, which raised over $850,000 to support Big Brothers Big Sisters of Oklahoma’s one-to-one mentorship program. Held at the Arvest Convention Center, 500 guests dressed to match the evening’s “cowboy couture” theme and enjoyed sampling appetizers and entrees from 24 of Tulsa’s most exclusive restaurants. The event was chaired by Talmadge Powell and Brayden Green — the first Big/Little duo to co-chair the organization’s annual event. The evening featured a live auction, live ask and music by Allie Colleen, an Oklahoma-born country music singersongwriter. (Pictured above: BBBSOK Tulsa Area Director Abi Sutherland, Powell and Noshville Committee Member Kristine Stover.)

18 Kids Just Wanna Have Fun(d)s Benefits Tulsa Lawyers for Children. tlc4thechild.org 24 TFA+Lortondale Club Pool Party Benefits Tulsa Foundation for Architecture and Lortondale Club Pool. tulsaarchitecture.com/upcoming-events 25 Annual Golf Tournament Benefits Sapulpa Girls Softball.

Sapulpa Chiefs Softball

28 Bunco for a Cause Benefits Owasso HS Band and Bailey Education Foundation. baileyeducationfoundation.com

THE PARTY: JUST WEAR WHITE On May 29, over 550 guests gathered at Tulsa Country Club in support of Family & Children’s Services. Dressed in white to welcome the summer months, attendees were treated to a cocktail hour by the pool and a fabulous dinner prepared by TCC, which was followed by a moving program that highlighted the impact of FCS in the community. Funds raised during the course of the evening will go toward supporting the FCS 24/7 Crisis Care line, COPES and more. In numbers, the night’s impact translates to 738 wellness and recovery nursing services, 369 substance use therapy sessions and 615 crisis call responses. Above, Dance Party Co-Chair Mikey Manghum and his wife Olivia enjoy the dance portion of the evening, which was followed by a fireworks show to cap off an amazing night of life-changing impact.

If you would like to join in on the fun at Family & Children’s Services next event, the Brainiac Ball will be March 6, 2027. Find out more about tickets and sponsorship information at development@fcsok.org or by calling 918-600-3843.

Senior LIFEstyle and Wellness Expo Benefits LIFE Senior Services. lifeseniorservices.org

For more event galleries, visit tulsapeople.com

BAIVA Indian Taco Fundraiser Benefits the Broken Arrow Intertribal Veterans Association.

Broken Arrow Intertribal Veterans Association

TulsaPeople.com 27

SPONSORED EDITORIAL

Todd Welsh (left) and Rich Howard, founders of Scissortail Wealth Management

SPONSORED EDITORIAL

Rooted in Tulsa A Q&A with the founders of Scissortail Wealth Management

F

or Todd Welsh and Rich Howard, Tulsa isn’t simply where they built a business — it’s home. As founders of Scissortail Wealth Management, they’ve spent decades helping individuals, families and business owners navigate financial decisions while staying deeply connected to the community that shaped them. In a city built on relationships, they believe the best financial planning starts the same way.

TULSA HAS CHANGED A LOT OVER THE YEARS. WHAT KEEPS YOU INVESTED IN THIS CITY? Welsh: Tulsa is where my wife and I raised our family and where many of my closest relationships were built. Over the years, the city has grown and changed, but that sense of community has always remained. People genuinely care about one another here, and that's something I’ve always valued.

Howard: Tulsa is a place where relationships matter. You can see it in the businesses, the schools, the nonprofits and the people who continually give back. We’ve been fortunate to build our lives and careers here, and we're proud to be part of that story.

HOW DOES BEING A LOCAL, INDEPENDENT FIRM SHAPE THE WAY YOU SERVE CLIENTS? Howard: Many of our client relationships span years, even generations. We’ve celebrated milestones with families, watched

Financial planning isn’t just about numbers. It’s about helping people build the life they want and providing guidance along the way. businesses grow, and helped clients navigate both opportunities and challenges. That history creates a level of understanding that’s difficult to replicate.

Welsh: We know our clients personally.

We know their families, their goals and, often, the stories behind the decisions they’re making.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT HAS ALWAYS BEEN IMPORTANT TO SCISSORTAIL. WHY? Welsh: We believe businesses should contribute to the communities that support them. Tulsa has given so much to us, and giving back is simply part of who we are.

Howard: Whether it’s volunteering, supporting local organizations or initiatives like Take 5, we want to be active participants in making Tulsa stronger. Some of the most rewarding moments happen outside the office.

WHAT DO YOU THINK PEOPLE ARE REALLY LOOKING FOR FROM A WEALTH MANAGEMENT FIRM TODAY? Howard: Simplicity and confidence.

People’s financial lives have become more complex, and many are looking for a trusted team that can help bring everything together.

Welsh: That’s one of the things we focus on every day. People are busy. They have careers, families, businesses and responsibilities pulling them in different directions. We help bring all the moving pieces together so they don’t feel like they’re managing everything on their own or coordinating between multiple advisors.

Our goal is to simplify their financial life and give them confidence that someone is looking out for the bigger picture.

AFTER ALL THESE YEARS, WHAT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? Welsh: The trust. Many of our clients have been with us for decades, and we’ve had the opportunity to walk alongside families through some of life’s biggest decisions.

That’s something we never take for granted.

Howard: I’m proud that we’ve been able to build a business in the same community where we’ve built our lives. We’ve raised our families here, developed lasting friendships here and had the privilege of helping other Tulsa families pursue their goals. That’s something we’re incredibly grateful for.

SCISSORTAIL WEALTH MANAGEMENT 1203 E. 33rd Street Tulsa, OK 74105-2013 contact@scissortailwealth.com • 918.956.0500 • scissortailwealth.com Scissortail Wealth Management is an independent investment advisory firm that offers a variety of different investment vehicles.

This is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as individual investment advice.

ACCESS FOR ALL RECE NT RE NOVATIONS HAV E MADE THIS TUL SA CLIFF TOP PARK MORE IN CLUSIV E .

BY M A R N I E F E R N A N D E Z PH OTOS BY M I C H E L L E P O L L A R D

Tulsa’s “Lost City” has recently found new life following a yearslong renovation effort spearheaded by Tulsa County. Chandler Park, located northwest of town at 6500 W. 21st St., is now even more accessible to visitors thanks to an extensive construction project that introduced a mile-long, wheelchair accessible trail, expanded parking and plenty of community gathering space to the park’s lower level.

30 TulsaPeople JULY 2026

A BRIEF HISTORY OF CHANDLER PARK

The area earned its “Lost City” nickname from explorer Samuel Washington Woodhouse, who surveyed the land in the mid-1800s and noted that the geometric rock formations looked like ruins of an abandoned settlement. By the early 1900s, the rugged bluffs became a community escape, where people would gather for picnics, hiking and romantic rendezvous. From the 1910s through the 1950s, mining activity dominated the area to keep up with Tulsa’s growth.

While the dramatic limestone outcroppings and canyons found in the park are completely natural, the land was heavily altered by industrial activity from various operators.

“The quarries supplied limestone used to pave the early streets of downtown Tulsa, leaving behind massive rock corridors that define the park’s terrain today,” says Matt Hancock, director of Tulsa County Parks.

Meanwhile, Cyrus Avery, the “Father of Route 66,” was championing Avery Drive, a winding route that runs below the park and traces the Arkansas River. Construction for the road, designed to connect communities along the river, kicked off in 1916 and took 40 years to complete due to the challenging terrain.

In 1958 local oilman and then-County Commissioner J.A. LaFortune convinced his friend Claude Chandler, president of Chandler Materials Company, to donate 100 acres of his former quarry to Tulsa County, making it the second park owned by the County after LaFortune Park. The "Lost City" was renamed Chandler Park in 1961, offering Tulsans panoramic views and a chance to explore distinct rock formations.

The park was mainly used as a picnic area until the late 1960s, when the County added a miniature golf course, baseball diamonds and tennis courts. Over the decades, Chandler Park expanded to 192 acres and became a popular place for rock climbing and bouldering. The park has also played a supporting role in movies and TV shows, such as Martin Scorsese’s “Killers of the Flower Moon” with Leonardo DiCaprio and Lily Gladstone, and Mike Rowe’s “The Story Behind the Story.” “‘Killers of the Flower Moon’ used Chandler Park’s natural rock formations to recreate the period caves in the Osage Nation,” Hancock explains. “We hope to have other fi lm projects use our space in the future.”

Chandler Park’s new multi-use trail in its lower level includes informational signage to inform visitors about the park’s history, geology and ecology.

THE MASTER PLAN

As part of a comprehensive master plan, the park’s upper level has already seen an extensive transformation over the last few years. The plan’s fi rst phase introduced one of the region’s largest splashpads — which was also named a top 10 “Best Splash Pad” by USA TODAY 10BEST — alongside a new playground, an upgraded 18-hole disc golf course, sports courts and designated picnic areas.

However, the park’s lower level had turned into a storm debris collection site for events like the historic 2007 ice storm, making it inaccessible to the public for nearly two decades.

“Part of the master plan was to transform the lower level from a debris site to revitalized and accessible park space,” Hancock says. “We were able to open this newly reconstructed portion of the park in April, which includes not only the wheelchair accessible trail, but also an overlook with sweeping views of downtown and the Arkansas River.”

These renovations to the lower level, made possible through funding from the public and private sectors, took 16 months to complete.

“Weather was probably our biggest challenge,” Hancock says. “However, we were able to get it completed on time and under budget, so we are very proud of that.”

Extensive grading shaped steep, erosion prone slopes into open lawns, creating a large green space for a concert amphitheater framed by natural rock outcroppings. The new bandshell creates a dedicated place for arts programming, live entertainment and community events. Roads, parking and trails have also been reconfigured to improve separation of vehicles and pedestrians, while the paved overlook area provides a dedicated space for community events, like workshops and birthday parties, set against the downtown skyline.

The new six-foot-wide trail features interpretive signage that highlights the history of Chandler Park and provides educational information about the surrounding environment. Th is new addition also includes the Brook and Jill Tarbel Memorial Boardwalk, which offers an expansive view of the river and west Tulsa.

“The Tarbels were dedicated disability rights advocates recognized for their lifelong efforts to remove barriers and promote inclusion within the community,” Hancock says. “The new trail and boardwalk continue their legacy by expanding equitable access to nature and public spaces.”

TulsaPeople.com 31

The new bandshell at Chandler Park.

“With our newest renovations, everyone has the opportunity for equal access to this beautiful park.”

New signage was included with park renovations.

— MATT HANCOCK,

Inside the park’s recently constructed Samuel Washington Woodhouse Nature Center — which was part of the park’s upper level renovations — you can find Activities Coordinator Kim Watson leading one of the various programs Chandler Park offers year-round.

“As a naturalist, I want to inspire as many people as I can to get outside and enjoy nature,” she says. “With our new nature center, we have been able to reach more than 20,000 people with our programs.”

The facility hosts hands-on activities every day, and interpretive displays are changed out every month so park visitors are always experiencing something new, Watson explains.

“Everything is free of charge,” she adds.

During the summer months, Chandler Park offers its own youth summer camps, while also opening its facilities to other groups for various activities.

“We teach archery classes for adults and kids during the summer months,” Watson says. “We also host all kinds of Girl Scout programs.”

Part of the mile-long Brook and Jill Tarbel Memorial Boardwalk.

32 TulsaPeople JULY 2026

CAMPS, CLASSES AND COMMUNITY

BANDSHELL: ASHLEY VANZANT – TULSA COUNTY

director of Tulsa County Parks

He adds that some of the recent groups to take advantage of the new amenities are stroller moms, wheelchair hikers and dog walking groups. Chandler Park has also hosted several recent weddings.

“Our newest renovations give us so many more opportunities for events and programs,” Hancock says. “The sky is the limit.”

During the school year, the nature center hosts seminars for teachers and partners with the STEM Alliance on integrating aspects of nature into its curriculum.

“We love to show teachers how to incorporate nature into their classrooms by offering teacher workshops and getting them comfortable with teaching in a no-walls classroom,” Watson explains. “We also offer STEAM nights throughout the year.”

Year-round community events include Nature Babies (for children 0-5 years), martial arts classes for all ages, open gym basketball and open play pickleball.

Additionally, Watson leads various classes on foraging, composting, food dyes and tinctures throughout the year as part of a “Women in Nature” series.

“We have women from all backgrounds attend, from newbies to people who have been doing this sort of thing for years,” she says. “It’s a very welcoming environment.”

The park offers a variety of seasonal programs as well, such as Monarchs on the Mountain, BioBlitzes, birding walks, nature walks and Earth Day activities including a Trashin’ Fashion Show, featuring models wearing clothing made from recycled trash.

“That is a huge hit,” she says. “We had almost 40 entries last year and already have interest in expanding the show next year.”

In the fall, Chandler Park focuses on themed programs including owl prowls, spider sniffing (using a flashlight to spot spiders in the grass or bushes), moonlight hikes and other various workshops and events.

“I love offering unique hands-on activities for people,” she says. “Anything to get people interested in nature.”

LOOKING FORWARD

Chandler Park hasn’t finished growing by a long shot. Hancock says to stay tuned for more park improvements in the coming years.

“Disc golf is a huge attraction for our park,” he says. “We are one of the most utilized courses in the state.”

Updates to the disc golf course are next on the agenda, as they look to host large tournaments such as the PDGA Masters Disc World Championships.

“With our recent addition of the bandshell, we are talking with several groups about hosting music festivals at the park,” Hancock adds. “Our prices are very affordable, and we can offer a unique experience that no other place in Tulsa can offer. And with our newest renovations, everyone has the opportunity for equal access to this beautiful park.”

Visit tulsacounty.org/parks for more information on Chandler Park and its programs. tp

Above, Chandler Park Activities Coordinator Kim Watson showcases new informational signage at the park. Below, Director of Tulsa County Parks Matt Hancock at the recently completed paved overlook where visitors can enjoy a new perspective of the downtown skyline.

TulsaPeople.com 33

Tickets on sale now!

For more information, visit artinitulsa.com ARTini Tulsa is more than an event — it’s a catalyst for Tulsa’s creative future.

Equal parts art auction, martini tasting, culinary experience, and celebration, ARTini channels the energy of an entire city into a single unforgettable evening.

PRESENTED BY Saturday, August 15, 2026 Doors open at 7PM 101 East Archer Tulsa Arts District

AN OKLAHOMECOMING ICONIC MUSICAL ‘OKLAHOMA!’ PREPARES TO TAKE THE TULSA PAC STAGE WITH A HOMEGROWN CAST AND AN EYE TOWARD THE FUTURE.

BY ALLYSSA REEDER

A

s the sun dipped below the horizon, coloring Sand Springs’ Discoveryland Ranch amphitheater in beautiful reds and oranges, a young actor sat upon a horse waiting for his cue. Beyond the trees, the audience buzzed with anticipation. The firef lies danced around him, with cicadas humming in the summer air. A winding trail leads

to an outdoor stage, where the cast of “Oklahoma!” was performing under the Oklahoma sky.

“It was like a Studio Ghibli movie,” recalls Pete Otis, who played Will Parker in the produc-

tion. “I’ll never forget that serenity and how beautiful that moment was.”

Almost two decades later, Otis is now helping create new memories tied to the iconic musical, which Discoveryland hosted for 35 summers until 2011. This summer, Tulsa Performing Arts Center is producing a locally driven version of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Oklahoma!” that brings together performers, designers and technicians from across the state, while advancing a larger goal: building a stronger theater workforce in Oklahoma.

TulsaPeople.com 35

Left to right: “Oklahoma!” director and Tulsa PAC’s director of development, Pete Otis; Thesa Loving, who is playing Aunt Eller in the Tulsa PAC production after previously performing the role on a national tour.

KEEPING IT LOCAL For Otis, the show’s director and Tulsa PAC’s director of development, the production is both a homecoming and an investment. “It’s been about 10 years since we’ve had a full production of ‘Oklahoma!’ in Tulsa,” Otis says. “It’s always been at the top of our list.”

The musical has deep connections to Tulsa, including the fact that it was adapted from Claremore-born playwright and Cherokee citizen Lynn Riggs’ “Green Grow the Lilacs,” and it remains closely tied to the history and culture of northeastern Oklahoma. The show will run July 24-Aug. 16, but Tulsa PAC’s interest in the musical extends beyond mere nostalgia — the production also serves a practical purpose.

Growing up in Tulsa, Otis remembers many of his fellow aspiring theater professionals often understood that leaving home was a requirement. “You kind of always had this knowledge in the back of your head that you’re going to have to leave,” he says.

After getting his B.A. in Musical Theater from The University of Tulsa in 2009, Otis himself left the state. He performed shows on cruise ships and with touring productions (national and international) before spending a year at the Boston Conservatory at Berklee College of Music.

Yet, to Otis, Tulsa always remained "home."

36 TulsaPeople JULY 2026

Now, after returning to work for the Tulsa PAC, Otis hopes to help create opportunities that he didn’t have when he began his career.

“We have talent and we have the resources,” Otis explains. “We just need to put some effort in the right direction.”

Th is philosophy has shaped the PAC’s broader goal of creating large-scale theatrical opportunities within the city. While Tulsa’s arts community already includes many highly reputable organizations such as Tulsa Opera, Tulsa Symphony Orchestra and the Tulsa Ballet — the latter of which recently performed a critically acclaimed, sold-out five-night run at London’s Royal Opera House in May — professional theater has long been the missing piece, according to Otis.

“I think Tulsa deserves it,” he says.

BUILT UPON COMMUNITY This show has been nearly a year in the making. Tulsa PAC secured the rights to “Oklahoma!” last fall before launching auditions in January. Nearly 600 Oklahoman performers auditioned for the production.

The final cast includes 32 performers, most of whom are from Oklahoma or attend Oklahoma colleges and universities.

Supporting those early career artists has been critical to the production’s mission in the months leading up to the show.

The PAC has arranged housing for approximately half the cast, allowing emerging talent from around the state to spend the summer in Tulsa for rehearsals. Otis notes this entire effort helps the Tulsa PAC remain competitive against other regional theaters, while providing valuable professional experience for young artists.

“Th is is just the beginning of creating an entirely independent ecosystem of performing arts here in Tulsa,” he says.

Like most theater productions, “Oklahoma!” is being built by those who wear many hats: Tulsa PAC CFO Jen Alden is also serving as choreographer for the show; Business Manager Danielle Williams is the assistant stage manager; Director of Community Engagement Nolan MacDonald is a props assistant; and Programming Manager Terri McGilbra is helping with costumes and company management. Vice President of Technical Theater Scott McLarty is serving as production manager and PAC President, and CEO Mark Frie remains involved as producer. Theater is built upon community, and nothing shows that more than people willing to get a little messy while finding a balance between work and play.

That sense of shared purpose, even from the early planning stages, has already shaped the atmosphere around the production. Otis describes conversations in

Former City Councilor Crista Patrick is helping with costume design in the production; Tulsa PAC CFO Jen Alden is serving as the show's choreographer; The locally produced show will run July 24-Aug. 16.

meetings and casting sessions that have drifted easily between technical notes and personal histories, with many participants discovering overlapping connections — former teachers, past productions, mutual mentors and even childhood performances that unknowingly linked them long before this show. In that way, the production has become less a single project and more a gathering point for decades of Oklahoma theater history folding back in on itself.

The production has given Otis a chance to reconnect with some of the Tulsans who helped launch his own career. Among them is actress Thesa Loving, who is playing Aunt Eller in this production after having previously performed the role on a national tour. During auditions, Otis immediately recognized the name. Loving had been his sister’s drama teacher at Union High School and directed him in one of his fi rst productions, “A Christmas Carol,” when he was still a child.

When the two reunited, Loving was stunned to learn the impact those early experiences had made. “He said, ‘You’re the reason I’m still in theater,’” Loving recalls.

“And I went, ‘What? What are you talking about?’”

Loving remembers casting Otis and his sisters to play members of the Cratchet family after his sister volunteered them for the production.

“Anyway, the rest is history,” she says.

A Tulsa native, Loving left teaching to pursue professional acting opportunities, earning a master’s degree through The Actors Studio and Pace University in New York City before building a career in regional theater, off-Broadway productions, national tours, fi lm and television.

Returning to Tulsa to reprise her former role carries a special significance.

“I’ve always said I’ll always be a Tulsa girl,” Loving says. “No matter where I live.”

Th is summer marks her return to a Tulsa stage after decades away. Loving believes the production showcases something she has long recognized about her home state.

“A lot of talent has come from Tulsa,” she notes. “I don’t know if it’s in the water.

I don’t know. But there’s a lot of talent that comes out of Tulsa.”

That talent is evident throughout the production, she says, and to her it reflects the same passion and commitment she has seen throughout her career. “If I’m going to do it, I want to do it right,” Loving says about Tulsa PAC’s “Oklahoma!”

VIBRANT VISION Beyond the production itself, Tulsa PAC is partnering with community organizations to create a broader experience around the show. The organization is working with the Claremore Museum of History to

display artifacts connected to Riggs and “Oklahoma!,” including a historic surrey and other memorabilia. Additional partnerships include events with the Philbrook Museum of Art and Gathering Place.

Audience members can also add a preshow barbecue dinner experience inspired by the beloved Discoveryland tradition.

The event will take place in the Tulsa PAC Norman Theatre and will feature live entertainment from cast members performing country, bluegrass and Americana selections before the show.

For Otis, the production is ultimately about honoring Oklahoma’s past while investing in its future. The same musical that inspired him as a young performer now serves as a vehicle for creating opportunities for the next generation of artists. And for Loving, returning home to tell that story once again feels fitting.

“It’s a very human story,” she says. “I hope (audience members) take away the excellence of the production, and I hope they have a good time.”

In addition to seeing a fantastic production packed with homegrown talent, audiences may also leave with something more: a glimpse of what a thriving future for Oklahoma theater could look like — and the sense that it is already quietly being built, one production, one shared connection and one emerging artist at a time. tp

TulsaPeople.com 37

just desserts INCLUDING: LE LOUVRE FRENCH CAFE BARBEE COOKIES BIG BABY ROLLS AND DONUTS SAINT AMON BAKING CO ARMANDO AND CHELY CAKES MUHANNA SWEETS AND MORE!

Looking to satisfy your sweet tooth this summer? From hidden-gem food trucks to decadent sit-down spots, we’ve rounded up the ultimate guide to Tulsa’s best dessert destinations.

BY STAFF PHOTOS BY MICHELLE POLLARD TulsaPeople.com 39

internationally INSPIRED BRICE'S COFFEE & BAKE HOUSE Thanks to Brice’s Coffee and Bake House, locals can find flavors from South Africa without ever leaving Tulsa. Since 2024, owners Sean and Olivia Brice have been serving up scrumptious pastries using the same recipes from their former location in Port Elizabeth. From custard-filled cruffins (croissant muffins) to ubuntu bars, Brice’s offers plenty of options to pair with your coffee of choice. You can find Brice's in south Tulsa and in midtown.

8929 S. Memorial Drive, Suite 280 • 918-600-2253 2510 E. 15th St. • 844-702-4977 bricescoffeeandbake.com

An Upside Down Fish at Little Taiyaki with vanilla and chocolate swirl, Oreo dust and strawberries

LITTLE TAIYAKI

Little Taiyaki brings a playful twist to dessert with its signature fish-shaped cones filled with creamy soft-serve ice cream. The sweet, sea creature-inspired pastry adds a unique touch to every treat, creating a fun combination of textures and flavors. Colorful toppings and seasonal offerings keep us coming back to try something new, and the eye-catching desserts are just as enjoyable to photograph as they are to eat. Whether you’re stopping by after dinner in Sapulpa or making a special trip on Route 66, Little Taiyaki serves up a treat that’s both whimsical and delicious.

24 E. Dewey Ave., Sapulpa • 918-850-2138 @littletaiyaki 40 TulsaPeople JULY 2026

MIXY BITES Filipino-owned Mixy Bites in Broken Arrow offers the perfect treat to cool down in the Oklahoma heat: halohalo, the most popular drink of the Philippines. Especially drank in the summertime to combat soaring temps, this sweet, icy-cold beverage is both beautiful and refreshing.

In Tagalog, halo means “mix,” which is what you’re meant to do to the colorful, distinctive layers of shaved ice, condensed milk, candies of different sizes and textures, jellied coconut strips and sweetened red bean topped with flan and ube ice cream. Mixy Bites makes the delicious, deep purple ube ice cream in-house, and we highly recommend trying it on its own (as well as the flan!) before mixing everything together for a truly unique and delicious dessert experience. While you’re waiting on your drink, take a look around at all the snacks, candy, cooking sauces, canned ingredients and even beauty products imported from the Philippines, China, Vietnam, Japan and more.

2210 W. Houston St., Broken Arrow • 918-236-8088 Mixy Bites - Your Neighborhood Café & Filipino Goodies - Broken Arrow • @mixy_bites

MANDARIN TASTE Most Tulsans know that Mandarin Taste is a staple for tasty and authentic Chinese food, but did you know that the restaurant has an eclectic dessert menu?

Comprised of both traditional treats from China — like the Red Bean Sesame Balls, which are crispy and sweet — to a variety of yummy cakes. Other yummy offerings include creme brulee, chocolate mousse cake, lemon berry mascarpone and more.

9107 S. Sheridan Road • 918-878-7998 mandarintastetulsaok.com

SUGAR 66 With a crunch heard around the world (at least on TikTok), tanghulu — skewered fruit enveloped in glassy, hardened sugar — became a viral sensation due to its high visual appeal and the satisfying crack it gives upon biting into it. Chinese in origin, the tactile treat can be found in Tulsa at Sugar 66, a sweets and candy purveyor inside Mother Road Market and also in Catoosa. Tanghulu lovers can get two skewers for $10, or one for $5 during MRM’s $5 Wednesdays. Also, find a whole host of dirty soda options, snow cones, customizable cheesecake, trending candy items and “candy salad” — an assembleyour-own mix of up to 10 gummy options.

1124 S. Lewis Ave., 1555 N. Highway 66, Suite D, Catoosa • 918-557-3035 Sugar 66 • @sugar66onroute66

KILKENNY’S IRISH PUB Looking for a taste of Ireland?

Visit Kilkenny’s robust dessert menu.

From their rotating Cobbler O’ the Day to Rich’s Stuffed Baked Apple, the authentic pub’s traditional dishes are a hearty end to an already tasty meal. Our favorite is the Guinness Chocolate Cake, a dense cake topped with Guinness stout chocolate sauce and Bailey’s Irish whipped cream.

1413 E. 15th St. • 918-582-8282 tulsairishpub.com

Muhanna Sweets’ pistachio and cashew bugaj

MUHANNA SWEETS This family-owned bakery packs three generations of expertise into each delicate, flaky bite of its legendary baklava. Originating in Damascus as far back as 1935, Muhanna Sweets opened the doors to its Tulsa location in 1999. Beyond pistachio and walnut baklava, the bakery makes a variety of authentic Middle Eastern desserts including asabe’ zainab (phyllo fingers), warbat (phyllo pastry stuffed with a cream filling) and bugaj (phyllo bird’s nests stuffed with a pistachio or cashew filling).

6104 E. 71st St., #22 • 918-523-1800 • muhannasweetsusa.com

RENDANG AND CO. This James Beard-nominated restaurant is known for its expansive menu filled with Indonesian lunch and dinner staples.

However, this Halal bistro also boasts an in-house bakery and a full dessert menu, with sweets such as pisang goreng — fried plantain topped with whipped cream and chocolate sauce — and es cendol, a jelly-like dish that combines rice flour and vibrant green pandan with coconut milk and palm sugar syrup, served cold. Prepping for a party? Consider calling ahead to order a custom tray of jajan pasar, which encompasses an array of traditional bitesized sweets from rice balls to tiny cakes.

5083 E. 51st St. S. • 918-551-6099 rendangandco.com TulsaPeople.com 41

French Flavors FRENCH HEN Serving French and French-inspired recipes for more than 40 years, the French Hen has become a Tulsa fine dining tradition.

Preparing each dish from scratch daily, the restaurant is known for providing a quality experience fit for special occasions. You can make your night extra special with an Espresso Chocolate Mousse or one of the restaurant’s versions of creme brulee, which come in chocolate or berry.

319 E. Archer St. • 918- 492-2596 • frenchhentulsa.net

LE LOUVRE FRENCH CAFE Going to Paris typically requires a passport and flying over an ocean, but Le Louvre French Cafe in the heart of south Tulsa offers a much closer taste of the City of Light. Owners Yakham N’Gom and his wife Micheline moved from France to Tulsa in 2017, opening Le Louvre shortly after to bring the art of authentic, house-made French patisserie and cuisine to the area. Upon entering, it’s impossible not to be drawn to the pastry case gleaming with colorful rows of bright macarons, cakes dotted with delicate icing adornments, pastry cream tarts piled with fresh fruit and more. The only way you can go wrong at Le Louvre is by not also ordering something savory to go along with your chosen treat — try a croissant jambon fromage (ham, brie and gruyere), a croque madame (baked ham and cheese sandwich topped with a sunny-side-up egg) or any of the fabulous, flaky quiche options.

8313 S. Memorial Drive • 918-286-6019 • lelouvrefrenchcafe.com

STONEHORSE CAFÉ Sometimes a sweet treat calls for a whole affair, and it’s in those moments where Stonehorse Cafe in Utica Square really shines. This Tulsa staple is perfect for taking an afternoon to catch up with friends over handcrafted delicacies paired with a cup of tea or a glass of wine. French-inspired standouts include the Bitter Chocolate Gateau — an 80% couverture Belgian chocolate mousse cake served with raspberries, Chantilly cream and raspberry sauce — and the classic creme brulee.

1748 Utica Square • 918-712-7470 • stonehorsecafe.com

ANTOINETTE BAKING CO. Antoinette has built a reputation for elegant desserts, and its macarons are among the finest in Tulsa. Delicate, colorful and beautifully crafted, these French favorites feature crisp shells with soft, flavorful centers. Seasonal options often join classics like vanilla, chocolate and raspberry, giving visitors something new to discover with every visit. Whether enjoyed with coffee or boxed as a gift, these treats add a touch of Parisian charm to any day.

207 N. Main St. • 539-777-1674 • antoinettebakingco.com

Saint Amon’s cacao, blueberry and lemon trompe l’oeils

SAINT AMON BAKING CO

It’s not uncommon to see people lined up outside the door of Saint Amon Baking Co. In fact, the store fills up often enough that they have posted a sign requesting customers keep the door closed to preserve its delicate pastries from Oklahoma’s muggy, sweltering summer heat. With a rotating menu of scratch-made pastries including French classics like croissants, baguettes and eclairs, the bakery has been making viral rounds on social media for its trompe l’oeils. French for “deceive the eye,” these fruit-shaped, moussefilled cakes go fast. Be sure to order yours three days in advance to guarantee your chance to try it.

8156 S. Lewis Ave., #E • 918-364-2143 • Saint Amon Baking Co • @saintamonbakingco 42 TulsaPeople JULY 2026

PANCHO ANAYA For over 20 years, Pancho Anaya has been wowing Tulsans with authentic Mexican breads and desserts. This family business — currently in its fifth generation — specializes in pan dulce, a wide variety of soft, fluffy pastries featuring sugary toppings and/or fruit fillings.

The bakery also serves up traditional Mexican cookies, Pan Blanco, coffee and chai drinks and even seasonal items like the Pan de Muerto.

2420 E. Admiral Blvd. • 918-561-6735 11685 E. 21st St. • 918-234-3000 40 S. Garnett Road • 918-439-1010 panchoanaya.com NEVERIA Y PALETERIA LA TROPICAL As Jean-Paul Sartre said, humans are “condemned to be free,” and as a consequence we must make choices. Nowhere is the agony of choice more present than traditional Mexican ice cream parlor Neveria y Paleteria La Tropical, where a menu of unbelievably intriguing options smites the unwitting customer upon entrance. There are over 30 types of colorful paletas (handmade popsicles made from real fruits, fruit juices and cream). Dozens of ice cream flavor options make matters more difficult, as do traditional Mexican treat offerings such as fresas con crema — freshly chopped strawberries mixed into a sweet, slightly tangy cream sauce made from condensed and evaporated milks, sour cream and vanilla extract. But don’t have an existential crisis! You literally can’t go wrong with any decision made here.

1181 S. Aspen Ave., 3151 S. 129th E. Ave., 5907 E. Admiral Pl. • 918-861-4045 Neveria y Paleteria La Tropical

LUSCIOUS LATIN

Churros with chocolate and strawberry dipping sauces.

Also find Armando and Chely’s adorable pink food truck at 2119 S. Garnett Road Monday-Friday, 4 p.m.-9 p.m.; SaturdaySunday, 2 p.m.-9 p.m.

(Mug and gold ramekins not included with purchase.)

QUE GUSTO While Que Gusto specializes in Ecuadorian cuisine, this downtown eatery sources many of its ingredients locally in order to deliver fresh flavors. Known for its array of savory empanadas, Que Gusto also presents a robust dessert lineup, including traditional dulce de leche cookies alongside sweet empanadas, tres leches cake and even a raw chocolate tart that’s both gluten free and vegan.

105 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. • 918-851-2989 quegustotulsa.com SUGARCRAVE Don’t miss this Venezuelan vendor in east Tulsa’s Plaza 21 shopping mall. This delightful bakery whips up sweets, savory snacks and even takes custom cake orders. You can try South American favorites like alfajor cookies, which are sandwiched with creamy dulce de leche, or satisfy your cocoa cravings with a slice of the Chocolate Delux cake, filled with caramel and flan. If you need a little more, add on a triple order of custard-filled enrollados.

11413 E. 21st St. • 918-904-0303 • @sugarcrave_

ARMANDO AND CHELY CAKES

Stop. Everything. Whatever plans you made today need to be reworked to include treating yourself to an order of freshly-made, piping hot churros from Armando and Chely Cakes. You might as well stay in park once you get back to the car, because you’re not going anywhere — that warm, tantalizing, sugar-crystaled aroma wafting from the bag is not to be resisted.

These churros can come pre-filled with flavors like chocolate or strawberry, or enjoyed with sauces on the side for dunking. In addition to custom cake orders, Armando and Chely offers other traditional Mexican treats such as thick slices of strawberry flan, tres leches cake and any number of pan de dulce options.

5151 S. Peoria Ave. • 918-409-1225 • Armando and Chely Cakes TulsaPeople.com 43

layers, layers, LAYERS Chamomile Tres Leches

LOFI

This decadent dessert from LoFi’s Pastry Chef Koda Duerson is a playful take on a traditional tres leches cake. Seeped into the spongy cake, chamomile gives this tea-infused treat a mild floral flavor. Whipped yogurt tops the cake, along with a pickled blueberry gel and strawberries macerated with rose water. An generous side serving of creamy drizzle is brought out with the cake, letting diners pour as much as they’d like atop the confection.

1301 E. 15th St. • 918-921-5634 • lofitulsa.com 44 TulsaPeople JULY 2026

Ludger’s Bavarian Cakery As beautiful as the cakes from Ludger’s Bavarian Cakery are on the outside, the real magic is between the layers inside. Take their Chantilly Cake:

life by CHOCOLATE

sheets of yellow cake meet angel-style Bavarian cream cheesecake filling and whipped topping, with fresh berries tucked between every layer. Custom order a three tier cake or grab a slice of their rotating cake of the month.

6527 E. 91st St. • 918-622-2537 ludgersbavariancakery.com

Coracle Coffee Known for serving specialty coffee to downtown Tulsa, Coracle Coffee An assortment of Glacier truffles

has been refining its pastry offerings to match its roastery expertise. Any croissant connoisseur will tell you that layers make or break the entire experience. The team at Coracle consistently nails the lamination process, finding the ideal combination of cold butter and yeasted dough to create a light, flaky texture that could rival anything from Paris itself.

314 S. Cincinnati Ave. • 918-861-8172 coracle.coffee

Gambill’s Pastaria If you’re a tiramisu fan, this traditional

GLACIER CHOCOLATE

For chocolate lovers, Glacier Chocolate is a local brand with a renowned reputation for excellence.

This longtime Tulsa favorite crafts small-batch chocolates, truffles and caramels that showcase rich flavors and quality ingredients. Beautifully decorated and handcrafted with care, the sweets make memorable gifts — if you can resist opening the box and eating them yourself. A visit to either of Glacier’s shops is a reminder that sometimes the simplest indulgence is a perfectly made piece of chocolate.

1902 Utica Square, 539-424-5992 • 10051 S. Yale Ave., Suite 103 918-701-3786 • glacierchocolate.com

Italian no-bake dessert is absolutely not to be missed at Gambill’s Pastaria.

Made from whipped, creamy layers of delicately sweetened mascarpone

CRICKET AND FIG CHOCOLATE

and spongy ladyfingers soaked in

Nestled into the London Square shopping center, every aspect of Cricket and Fig exudes warmth, welcome and comfort. This cozy neighborhood spot is known for crafting gorgeous artisanal truffles and treats made from single-origin Madagascar cacao, but they also offer custom cakes, tarts and pies, as well as a full breakfast and lunch menu. But perhaps our favorite sweet item at Cricket and Fig is the Toast-Your-Own S’mores set-up, which features a holy trinity of house-made graham crackers, fluffy handmade marshmallows and hand-cut French milk chocolate squares, all arranged around an adorably tiny cast iron grill for mallow toasting. The activity is also available to-go, so you can take it home for the perfect complement to a summertime backyard camping sesh.

5800 S. Lewis Ave., Suite 129 918-271-5199 • cricketandfig.com

coffee and rum, Gambill’s tiramisu is the perfectly balanced, not-tooheavy follow-up to any of their fresh, bronze die-cut pasta dishes or slowfermented sourdough pizzas. If you’re not a tiramisu person, try a towering slice of housemade New York “Jewish Deli-style” cheesecake or Sicilianstyle cannoli. The popular pastaria also offers a refrigerated grab-and-go section of their scratch-made sauces and pastas perfect for quick, delicious weeknight dinners or impressing a dinner date.

1921 S. Harvard Ave. • tulsapasta.com

THE CHOCOLATE SHOP

BY NOUVEAU This family-run chocolatier builds on more than a two-decade legacy of bringing handcrafted Belgian chocolates to the Tulsa area. Tucked into the Broken Arrow Rose District, Nouveau Chocolates keeps its case stocked with specialty truffles and even takes custom orders for weddings and special events. For a fun outing, you can book a fondue reservation for one to six people, plus the shop offers occasional chocolate workshops.

205 S. Main St., Broken Arrow 918-258-2877 thechocolateshopba.com TulsaPeople.com 45

cuckoo for COOKIES

Decadent Double Chocolate, Chocolate Chip and Double Shot of Sugar cookies from Barbee Cookies

BARBEE COOKIES From Salted Caramel Cornflake and Jazzy Chocolate Raspberry to Double Shot of Sugar — Barbee Cookies are consistently creative, fresh and delicious. Soft and fluffy, they are exactly what a cookie should be: an absolute treat. Barbee’s is also known for the kindness of their staff, which mirrors their sweet bites and makes them one of our favorite confectioners in town.

8393 S. Memorial Dr. • 918-369-7997 • barbeecookies.com

COOKIE MAMA Cookie Mama’s case is the perfect place to peruse for an after school or post-meeting treat. Owner Carol Piles bakes with the same love and recipes she developed at home for her kids before she opened her shop in 2006. With 12 original flavors, plus specialties to choose from, your favorite is bound to be on the menu.

We love the Lemon Sugar and Peanut Butter — each bite fresh and with a homemade feeling.

6545 E. 91st St., #3 918-560-6262 cookiemama.com

46 TulsaPeople JULY 2026

QUEENIES Queenies is stocked with classic desserts — Rich’s Chocolate Pie, carrot cake, Sour Cream Lime Tart (Queenies’ version of a key lime pie) — and of course, cookies.

With chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin, snickerdoodle and more, the cafe and bakery covers the favorites. Got a meeting after lunch? Bring your colleagues a Queenies Dozen, which sweetly includes 14 cookies.

1816 Utica Square 918-749-3481 queeniesoftulsa.com

MY GIRL BAKESHOP This cozy corner shop in downtown Bixby packs powerful flavors into every bite. My Girl Bakeshop offers an array of goodies, from fudgy brownies to seasonal Hot Cocoa Bombs to “crookies” — croissants filled with gooey, par-baked chocolate chip cookie dough. Two of the bakery’s top favorites you can expect to find during your visit are the My Girl’s Signature Chocolate Chip and Birthday Cake cookies, but the bakery also specializes in custom orders.

1 W. Dawes Ave., Bixby 918-366-7452 mygirlbakeshop.com

D’CANNELA CHIMNEY CAKE D’Cannela’s chimney cakes are a labor of love.

This Hungarian street food is baked to order and comes filled with ice cream, fruit or even tiramisu.

The combination of warm cake and chilled toppings makes the treat extra special, like two desserts in one.

This Latin- and family-owned food truck also offers treats like its chamoy-topped Mangonetta. You can often find the truck parked at LaFortune Park. Come hungry!

D’Cannela Tulsa • @dcannelatulsa

TRUCKS and CARTS THE ITALIAN ICE CO. Do you need a dairy-free, gluten-free dessert for your next party? Look no further than The Italian Ice Co.! Crafted by a husband-and-wife team who were inspired by the Italian granita, these delicious frozen treats are made of very finely granulated ice combined with fresh fruit flavors like tangy pineapple and refreshing cherry limeade. The Italian Ice Co. can cater to your needs with pre-packed coolers, an adorable umbrella-covered cart or a 16-foot concession trailer. theitalianiceco.com • The Italian Ice Co • @theitalianiceco

OWASSO SWEETS Owasso Sweets lives up to its name with a case full of colorful confections, homemade favorites and other specialty treats. From cupcakes and cookies to custom cakes perfect for celebrations, this specialty on-thego bakery offers something to satisfy every sweet tooth, especially those who can’t have dairy or gluten.

No matter what you choose, expect fresh flavors and plenty of sweetness in every bite.

11595 E. 116th St. N., Owasso • 918-204-8627 owassosweets.menufy.com

D’Cannela’s Mangonetta alongside the Cake Dubai chimney cake.

SIP HAPPENS SPECIALTY DRINKS Lemonades and limeades and dirty sodas, oh my!

Sip Happens is Tulsa’s premier specialty drinks shop — the perfect summer hotspot to cool down with a tasty drink concoction. Fan favorites include the Dubai Chocolate Frappe, Cookies-and-Cream Frappe, Tropical Thunderstorm, White Elephant and Hippity Hoppity. You can also catch Sip Happens around town, popping up at various events. Or, if you’re looking for a fun touch to add to your own event, you can ask about their catering services.

1717 S. Sheridan Road • 918-981-2448 • @oksiphappens TulsaPeople.com 47

Boba Go Boba Go is the go-to for fun sips: milk teas, fruit teas, limeades, smoothies, slushies, coffees — all with boba toppings to make your drink pop.

While each drink is customizable to your favorite flavors, they also offer seasonal and trending treats like the Tres Leches Matcha. Add a bite to your sips — every drink purchase includes a free churro!

9938 Riverside Pkwy • 918-528-5364 bobagotulsa.com

sippable sweets

MAD Eats MAD Eats in Owasso takes milkshakes far beyond the ordinary, serving towering creations that are equal parts dessert and spectacle.

Thick, creamy and loaded with toppings, each shake arrives piled high with cookies, candy, whipped cream and other sweet surprises.

The flavors rotate often, making every visit a chance to try something new.

Bring your appetite — these overthe-top treats are made for sharing (though you may not want to).

201 S. Main St. Suite #130, Owasso 918-401-4353 • madeatsok.com

Iced Choco-huate (espresso, milk, peanut butter, housemade chocolate and espresso whipped cream) and a Dulce de Leche latte topped with bruleed, housemade marshmallow fluff and a "Lucha" ice cube

LUCHADOR COFFEE

Inheritance Kitchen and Juicery At Inheritance, sweetness is just a slurp away. This plant-forward concept leads with top-tier ingredients in its juices, salads, small plates and entrees — making healthy choices easy and delicious. Whether you need a meal replacement or an on-the-go pick-me-up, Inheritance's expansive list of smoothies has you covered. The shop's signature Birthday Cake smoothie blends coconut milk with juiced apple, almond butter, blue spirulina, vanilla protein, banana and strawberries for a refreshing treat packed with nutrients.

108 S. Detroit Ave., 539-424-5394; 3834 S Peoria Ave., 539-525-0608 inheritancejuicery.com

48 TulsaPeople JULY 2026

Luchador Coffee is lowkey serving up some of the most wildly delicious and refreshingly unique coffee drinks in Tulsa. Located across from Woodland Hills mall, Suite 340, this tiny-but-mighty Mexican coffee shop makes everything in house — from syrups and chocolate mixes to cloudlike espresso whipped cream and toasted marshmallow fluff. The “Mexican-style” portion of the menu includes drinks like churro lattes, horchata lattes and the Cafe de Ólla (traditional Mexican cinnamon coffee made with pilloncillo sugar and spices), while the “specialty” section boasts caffeinated concoctions such as the 918 Latte (espresso, milk, house-made brown sugar cinnamon syrup and honey drizzle) and the Piledriver (espresso, milk, condensed milk and house-made chocolate). Drinks are perfectly balanced and not too sweet, and hot summer days practically demand they be paired with a concha ice cream sandwich. Drop by and say hi to owner Vianca Silva and her mother Maria during Luchador’s one-year anniversary block party July 18!

6808 S. Memorial Drive #340 • 918-904-2297 • Luchador Coffee • @luchadorcoffee

SWIRL 66 Located in historic Maple Ridge, Swirl 66 is the perfect place to chill out with an ice cream treat.

Keeping things simple by offering vanilla or pineapple whip, Swirl 66 gives guests a chance to customize their orders with a wide variety of toppings such as candy, cookie dough, pretzels, brownies, pecans, caramel and so much more. Not feeling creative? Try one of Swirl 66’s “Signature Swirls” like the Snow Swirl — vanilla soft serve, raspberry puree, hot fudge and Oreos.

1802 S. Cincinnati Ave. • 918-582-3888 • swirl66.com

RISE AND DINE BIG BABY ROLLS AND DONUTS This Route 66 donut shop makes breakfast a breeze — especially for folks with gluten and dairy dining restrictions. This allergen-sensitive spot prioritizes safety, operating an entirely peanut-free kitchen. With a full menu of gluten-free donuts (which are also dairy free) in addition to a vegan donut menu, Big Baby is a wonderful way to start your day. One standout is the shop's Samoa donut, available in both gluten free and vegan forms, which echoes the beloved Girl Scout cookie with toasted coconut topping combined with a rich chocolate drizzle and caramel icing.

3739 E. 11th St. • 918-551-6020 • bigbabyrolls.com

Clockwise from top: Gluten-Free Glazed, Fruity Pebbles, Samoa and Strawberry Iced + Sprinkles Donuts from Big Baby Donuts

SUPER SECRET DONUTS The first rule of Super Secret Donuts is ... don’t talk about Super Secret Donuts (it makes the line longer!). These queue-creating confections start from a scratch-made brioche, and each week owner Milton Perry posts new weekly flavor drops on SSD’s social media pages. Outside of SSD’s two staple donuts — the Zi (brown butter glaze with brown butter caramel and smoked sea salt) and the E.V. (cinnamon, clove, ginger, nutmeg, sea salt and sparkling sugar) — recent donuts have come in deliciously inventive flavors such as creme brulee, horchata, guava and cheese, Porter Peach and Ube Cloud. Find SSD at Mother Road Market’s airstream trailer.

1124 S. Lewis Ave. • 808-861-2177 supersecretdonuts.com Super Secret Donuts Tulsa • @ssdtulsa SWEETIE PIE’S AMISH BAKERY AND CAFE Perched right on the Mother Road, Sweetie Pie’s brings in Amish baked goods and cafe items from the Amish community in Chouteau. Opening for breakfast at 6 a.m., we recommend trying one of the warm, gooey cinnamon rolls topped with a generous swirl of cream cheese icing. Or if you’re looking to start your day off with a touch of whimsy, go for the Fruity Pebbles cinnamon roll, which is playfully sprinkled with colorful cereal pieces. And even if you have to take it to go, don’t leave without ordering a fried pie: these handheld, half-moon shaped delights consist of flaky pie crust folded over various fillings such as strawberries and cream, chocolate, apple and coconut. Before leaving, check out the cafe’s market side to peruse a range of grab-and-go treats such as whole cakes, cookies, whoopie pies, muffins and 4-packs of cinnamon rolls including gluten-free options.

2627 E. 11th St., Suite A • 539-424-5112 Sweetie Pie’s Amish Bakery & Cafe COUNTRY BIRD BAKERY Bringing home Tulsa’s first James Beard Award in 2025 for Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker, it’s clear Cat Cox takes her craft seriously. At Country Bird Bakery — open nearly every Saturday morning and on select Thursdays at lunchtime — quality ingredients come first, laying the foundation for phenomenal pastries perfect for breakfast, brunch or beyond. With a focus on farm freshness and local sourcing, Country Bird’s menu constantly changes to incorporate whatever is in season, leading to creative concoctions like strawberry Arnold Palmer croissant twists and coconut pecan chocolate babka.

1644 E. Third St. Unit B countrybirdbakery.com Country Bird Bakery @countrybirdbakery tp TulsaPeople.com 49

SPONSORED EDITORIAL

2026

Every business has a story to tell.

TulsaPeople is proud to present our ninth annual edition of Faces of the 918, a special sponsored editorial section that tells the stories behind a variety of locally owned businesses serving our community. Each profile features owners and employees of Tulsa-area companies with a description of their work.

We hope you will find these pages informative and useful.

Each company represents a different business category, which are presented alphabetically by category.

50 TulsaPeople JULY 2026

2026

SPONSORED EDITORIAL

Pictured left to right: Loan Operations Assistant Shelby Peters, Senior Vice President, Commercial Lender Joshua Cole, Teller Deana Hicks, Executive Assistant Staci Barrett, Personal Banker Lisa Rogers, Receptionist Marilyn Boone, and Executive Vice President, Commercial Lender Gil Eacret.

The Face of Business Banking

Security Bank

For more than 25 years, Security Bank has built its reputation the same way it builds customer relationships — person to person. Founded by local bankers who believed customers deserved better care and attention, Security Bank continues to serve Tulsa businesses, families, and individuals with local, reliable, relationship banking.

“Being local means we are close by and know our customers,” says Personal Banker Lisa Rogers. “We look out for them.”

At Security Bank, customers are more than account numbers or transactions. They are business owners navigating growth, families planning for the future and neighbors who want a banker they can call directly when questions come up. Security Bank’s team takes pride in being accessible, responsive and willing to spend the time it takes to help customers make informed decisions that benefit their business and their personal financial well-being.

“With a long-term relationship, there is a comfort level to talk openly about what our customers are trying to accomplish, to ask the tough questions or offer a different perspective,” says Executive Vice President,

Commercial Lender Gil Eacret. “Just as many times as customers have been happy with a deal, they have also expressed appreciation that our questions or comments kept them out of a bad deal.”

That level of personal attention continues to define Security Bank’s culture today. Decisions are made locally by people who understand the Tulsa market and value long-term relationships over quick transactions.

From commercial lending and treasury management to business and personal banking services, the focus remains people-first.

“We value developing relationships so we can truly understand our customers’ needs,” says CEO Dawne Stafford. “Our goal is to support entrepreneurs, help businesses grow, and empower individuals to pursue their life goals.”

Experience the difference at Security Bank.

10727 E. 51ST ST. | 918-664-6100 | SBTULSA.BANK MEMBER FDIC | EQUAL HOUSING LENDER

2026

SPONSORED EDITORIAL

Dennis Aanenson, Patty Stuart & Bob Stuart

The Face of Business Technologies

JD Young Technologies JD Young Technologies, a respected, family-owned technology company headquartered in Tulsa, is pleased to announce a strategic partnership with A&B Business Solutions (A&B), also a leading provider of business solutions and reliable service in Sioux Falls SD. “This partnership brings together two organizations with closely aligned values, similar business models, and a shared vision for longterm growth while maintaining a strong local presence. Both companies are multi-generational, family-owned businesses rooted in integrity, community, and relationship-driven service,” said Bob Stuart, CEO at JD Young Technologies.

JD Young, founded in 1949, has a long and proud history of serving customers throughout Oklahoma and surrounding states. With a strong foundation in Tulsa and accelerated growth in Oklahoma City and additional markets, JD Young has earned a reputation for innovation, reliability, and outstanding customer support.

“Our companies have remarkably similar cultures and long-term outlooks,” said Stuart. “Our ownership teams have been friends for more than 25 years, and this partnership allows us to expand resources and capabilities while remaining local, family-owned, and customer focused.”

There will be no changes for customers of either company. Existing relationships, contracts, and service teams will remain the same and will now be backed by expanded support, shared expertise, and enhanced resources. Customers will benefit from increased investment in technology, people, and service infrastructure; plus expanded support, shared expertise and enhanced resources.

“This is about building for the future while honoring our past,” added Stuart and Aanenson. “Together, we’re creating more opportunity for our customers, our employees, and the communities we serve.”

116 W. 3RD ST. | 918.582.9955 | JDYOUNG.COM

2026

SPONSORED EDITORIAL

Brandon Reavis-Funk, Corin Richardson, Conor McMurchy, Patrick McMurchy, Corwin Moore, Brian Trufitt.

The Face of Chicken Fried Steak

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

publications, 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 39 years. Serving both lunch and dinner and featuring a full bar.

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

2026

SPONSORED EDITORIAL

The Face of Catering

Megan Sherrill and Scott Sherrill

Ludger’s Catering For nearly two decades, high school sweethearts Scott and Megan Sherrill have been the culinary force behind Tulsa’s most memorable celebrations.

As the owners of Ludger’s Catering + Events since 2009, the couple has transformed a beloved local staple into a comprehensive, one-stop hospitality experience. From intimate wedding receptions and private events to large-scale corporate galas, the Sherrills bring a perfect blend of culinary expertise and seamless event coordination to northeast Oklahoma.

Chef Scott’s passion for the kitchen runs deep. He spent years working in high-end restaurants before returning to his alma mater, Oklahoma State University, as a culinary instructor in 2006. When the opportunity arose in 2009 to purchase Ludger’s Catering from the previous owner, Scott paired his training with Megan’s management background and industry experience.

Widely recognized for her exceptional customer service and hospitality, Megan ensures the event planning process is completely stress-free.

Whether coordinating her client’s menu and event vision with complex

rentals and layout designs, or tailoring standard menus, Megan’s attention to detail ensures events run flawlessly from start to finish.

Together, the Sherrills have preserved the company’s strong foundation while significantly expanding its footprint. Although they still offer drop-off catering, under the Sherrills’ leadership Ludger’s Catering has grown into a full-scale event company. Based in the SoBo District on Main Street, their team provides custom menus crafted by culinary-trained chefs, full bar packages, complete rental coordination and layout design.

Despite the fast-paced nature of the hospitality industry, Scott and Megan keep their business firmly rooted in family values. Parents to three sons that grew up in and now help in the business, the Sherrills treat both their clients and staff like family. By staying on top of food trends and nurturing strong relationships with local venues, the Sherrills ensure that Ludgers Catering remains a trusted, award-winning name in the 918 community.

1628 S. MAIN ST. | 918-744-9988 | LUDGERSCATERING.COM

2026

SPONSORED EDITORIAL

Lindsay and Brooke

The Face of Commercial Cleaning

Final Touch Commercial Cleaning Co. In Tulsa, family businesses often carry more than just a name — they carry a legacy of grit, heart and deep community roots. Final Touch Commercial Cleaning, founded in 1985, has grown into a multi-state success with more than 300 employees. Known for hard work, exceptional service and a commitment to doing things the right way, owner Sandra Mullins has instilled these values in her daughters, who have dedicated much of their careers to helping the business thrive.

Brooke started at the company 22 years ago as a front-office receptionist, handling phones, applications, filing, paperwork and reference checks. As the company expanded, so did Brooke. She moved into operations with natural ease, which gave her a platform to discover a true passion for sales.

Personable, friendly and deeply connected to the family story, Brooke excels at engaging prospects and sharing Final Touch’s excellence. Her efforts have driven expansion into 6 states, positioning her as the strategic force behind the company’s impressive growth.

Lindsay came on board and quickly showed that her strength lies in people and community. For 17 years, she has found her calling in taking clients and team members to lunch, writing personal birthday and anniversary cards for every employee, remembering families, and attending kids’ games and celebrations. She shows love to everyone and is deeply involved with the many nonprofits Final Touch serves throughout Green Country. Lindsay builds lasting relationships and goodwill that strengthen the company’s community roots.

What makes Brooke and Lindsay so effective is how perfectly their strengths complement each other. Brooke drives the engine of growth, while Lindsay nourishes the roots. Together, they create a partnership that allows Final Touch to provide clean, healthy spaces for the community — and build a lasting legacy.

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

SPONSORED EDITORIAL

2026

Back row: Dakota Brasher, Kalvin Burghoff, Lee Wallis, Andrew Leach, Warren Stewart, Dick Alaback, Taylyna Mendoza, Matthew Gray, Dilon Argo, Kyle Quinn.

Front row: Todd Frankenfield, Bill McCollough, Gary Krisman, Cindy Grogan, Kaylee Espinosa, Julie Buxton, Monica Wittrock, Neil Dailey.

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 over 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

SPONSORED EDITORIAL

2026

Tom Bennett III, Co-Founder and CEO of First Oklahoma Bank

The Face of Community Banking

First Oklahoma Bank At First Oklahoma Bank, community banking begins with personal connection. Customers are known by name, decisions are made locally, and service is shaped by lasting relationships.

First Oklahoma bankers take seriously the motto of “treating others as we would want to be treated.” Our attentiveness to personalized service has translated into dynamic growth. In over 16 years, First Oklahoma Bank has surpassed $1.3 billion in assets. That growth reflects not only financial strength, but the trust of customers who value customized service, local leadership, and bankers who take time to understand their unique financial needs.

From personal and business checking to commercial lending, agricultural and SBA lending, First Oklahoma Bank offers the products customers need with the responsiveness they deserve. Clients also benefit from competitive CD rates, treasury services, private banking, secure online and mobile banking, fraud prevention tools, and 24/7 account access. It is the strength of a modern bank with the heart of a hometown one.

“At First Oklahoma Bank, we believe great banking starts with listening and working diligently to understand customers’ needs,” said Tom Bennett III, Co-Founder and CEO. “We have grown by pairing advanced tools and

strong financial solutions with genuine personal service. When customers walk through our doors, call us, or bank with us online, we want them to know they have a team that is committed, capable, and fully invested in their success.”

That same spirit of service extends far beyond the bank’s walls. First Oklahoma Bank is known for its community involvement. Recognized as a “Best of the Best” company for 16 consecutive years by the Tulsa Area United Way, the bank engages in year-round fundraising activities in support of the nonprofit agency. Among other community initiatives, First Oklahoma helped found Jenks CarePoint, which provides free clothing, shoes, and compassionate assistance to local families in need. The bank also is involved with financial literacy programs and a wide range of nonprofit, educational, and civic organizations across the Tulsa area.

We invite you to “Move up to Better Banking” and discover why so many others have made First Oklahoma Bank their choice.

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

2026

Oklahoma Central Credit Union professionals - People Helping People

The Face of Credit Unions

Oklahoma Central Credit Union Since 1941, Oklahoma Central Credit Union has been helping Oklahomans achieve their financial goals while investing in the communities it serves.

Founded in Tulsa, Oklahoma Central remains locally led and locally focused, serving more than 43,000 members across the Tulsa metro and beyond.

As a member-owned, not-for-profit financial institution, Oklahoma Central offers a full range of personal and business banking services, including high-yield checking, savings accounts, competitive loan options and industry-leading digital banking solutions. Under the leadership of President and CEO Gina Wilson, Oklahoma Central continues to grow while staying true to its founding philosophy of “People Helping People.”

That commitment extends far beyond banking. Oklahoma Central employees dedicate thousands of volunteer hours each year to local nonprofit organizations, schools and community initiatives. From supporting organizations such as City Lights Foundation, Food on the Move, the Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma, and Domestic Violence Intervention Services to providing financial literacy education for youth and adults, Oklahoma Central works to strengthen the communities where its members live and work.

The credit union also offers free financial counseling through accredited employees, along with financial education seminars, reality fairs for students and other programs designed to empower Oklahomans to make informed financial decisions.

Oklahoma Central’s dedication to service and member experience has earned national and local recognition, including being named to Newsweek’s America’s Best Regional Banks and Credit Unions list, receiving Tulsa World’s Best in the World recognition as Best Credit Union and earning honors through TulsaPeople’s A-List awards.

Membership is open to anyone connected to the credit union movement through family, employment or membership with another credit union. While the organization continues to grow, its mission remains unchanged: helping members, employees and communities thrive.

9 TULSA-METRO LOCATIONS | 918-664-6000 OKLAHOMACENTRAL.CREDITUNION

2026

SPONSORED EDITORIAL

Austin Boyce and Chase Boyce

The Face of Heating, Air Conditioning, Plumbing, and Generators

Airco

For brothers Austin and Chase Boyce, Airco Service represents far more than heating, air conditioning, plumbing and electrical work — it represents family, legacy and a commitment to serving the communities they call home.

Founded in 1961 by their grandfather, Airco Service has grown from a small family business into one of Oklahoma’s largest and most respected home service companies. Despite that growth, Austin and Chase remain focused on the same principles that built the company more than six decades ago: integrity, exceptional service and treating customers the way they treat family.

“There’s a deep sense of pride that comes with carrying on something your family started,” Chase says. “We’re not just running a business — we’re continuing a legacy that was built on hard work, trust and taking care of people.”

As third-generation owners, the brothers have helped lead Airco through significant expansion while maintaining a culture centered on employees, customers and community. Today, Airco operates seven locations across Oklahoma and Arkansas, serving thousands of

homeowners each year while investing heavily in employee development and customer experience.

Austin and Chase believe their success is measured by more than business growth. They are passionate supporters of local schools, charities and community organizations, recognizing that strong businesses have a responsibility to help strengthen the communities they serve.

“We’ve been fortunate to earn the trust of families across the region,” Austin says. “Giving back and staying involved in our communities is one of the most important ways we can honor that trust.”

Under their leadership, Airco continues to evolve with new technology, expanded services and innovative solutions for homeowners. Yet the company’s mission remains unchanged: providing dependable service delivered by people who genuinely care.

For the Boyce brothers, being a family-owned business isn’t simply part of Airco’s history — it’s the foundation of its future.

4444 S. 91ST E. AVE. | 918-216-0079 AIRCOSERVICE.COM

2026

SPONSORED EDITORIAL

Jen Massey

The Face of Homekeeping

A New View Homekeeping A New View Homekeeping is a Tulsa-based residential and commercial cleaning company focused on providing dependable, high-quality housekeeping and organizational services throughout the Tulsa metro area. Founded with the goal of helping clients reclaim time and reduce stress, the company offers recurring home cleanings, deep cleans, move-in and move-out services, office cleaning, post-construction cleanup, and professional organizing solutions.

The business emphasizes trust, consistency, and personalized service, with all team members undergoing background checks and professional vetting before joining the company. A New View Homekeeping is fully insured and bonded, giving homeowners peace of mind while cleaners work

inside their homes. The company also highlights the use of family- and petfriendly cleaning practices designed to create comfortable living spaces.

Serving Tulsa and surrounding communities including Broken Arrow, Jenks, Owasso, Bixby, Sapulpa, and Claremore, the company has built a reputation for responsive communication, attention to detail, and flexible scheduling. Client testimonials frequently mention the professionalism of the staff, thorough cleaning quality, and the company’s willingness to accommodate busy or changing schedules.

918-282-2860 | ANEWVIEWHOMEKEEPING.COM

2026

SPONSORED EDITORIAL

The Face of Med Spas

BA Med Spa and Weight Loss Center For 16 years, Tulsans have trusted BA Med Spa & Weight Loss Center and founder Malissa Spacek-McNeal with their aesthetic, wellness, and weight loss goals. What began as a vision to provide personalized, physiciansupervised care has grown into one of Oklahoma’s most recognized and award-winning medical spas.

At BA Med Spa, every patient is treated as an individual. Whether your concern is wrinkles, volume loss, skin laxity, unwanted fat, acne scars, sun damage, hair thinning or weight management, the team believes that every concern has a solution. Through advanced technology, innovative treatments and customized treatment plans, patients receive recommendations designed specifically for their unique goals.

BA Med Spa offers many of today’s most sought-after aesthetic treatments, including Botox®, dermal fillers, Sculptra®, CoolSculpting®, Ultherapy®, Morpheus8®, laser treatments, medical-grade skincare, DiamondGlow®, microneedling and physician-supervised weight loss injections.

One of the newest additions to the practice is PRX, an innovative skin rejuvenation treatment that stimulates collagen production and improves skin tone, texture and overall radiance with little to no downtime. PRX can be performed as a stand-alone treatment or combined with DiamondGlow® and/or microneedling to enhance results and help patients achieve an even brighter, healthier-looking complexion.

Patients appreciate knowing that BA Med Spa operates under physician oversight with in-clinic physician presence, providing an added level of safety, experience and medical guidance. This commitment to excellence has helped the practice become a trusted destination for patients seeking both aesthetic and wellness solutions.

This year marks BA Med Spa’s 16th Annual Christmas in July Celebration, a tradition that has become one of the most anticipated events of the year.

Throughout the month of July, patients can enjoy significant savings on many of their favorite treatments, including Botox®, dermal fillers, CoolSculpting®, Ultherapy®, Sculptra®, skincare products, weight loss services and more.

The Christmas in July event allows patients to take advantage of exclusive pricing while pre-purchasing treatments to use throughout the year. It is BA Med Spa’s way of thanking the community for 16 years of support, loyalty, and trust.

If you have a concern, BA Med Spa has a solution. Schedule a complimentary consultation today and discover why thousands of patients have chosen BA Med Spa & Weight Loss Center for their aesthetic and wellness journey.

510 N. ELM PLACE, BROKEN ARROW | 918-872-9999 BAWEIGHTSPA.COM | ONLINE SHOPPING FOR CHRISTMAS IN JULY AVAILABLE NOW AT STORE.BAWEIGHTSPA.COM

2026

SPONSORED EDITORIAL

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.

The Face of Mental Health, Substance Use Treatment and Crisis Care

Family & Children’s Services — Community Outreach Psychiatric Emergency Services (COPES) Team Community Outreach Psychiatric Emergency Services Crisis Hotline and Mobile Outreach, one of over 74 programs offered by Family & Children’s Services (FCS), provides services to address mental health needs in Tulsa County.

The COPES team is integral to the fabric of Tulsa, and 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 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 anxiety.

COPES has team members within the Tulsa 911 center for calls in and around Tulsa County. iPads have been deployed to Tulsa County law enforcement agencies enabling immediate face-to-face risk assessment and crisis stabilization. The Community Response Team exemplifies COPES’ commitment to integrated crisis intervention. This team, which includes COPES 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.

COPES is also part of the Alternative Response Teams 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 calls. COPES’ philosophy of treating individuals in their natural environments, combined with its culturally diverse, trauma-informed approach, ensures better outcomes.

COPES 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.

5310 E. 31ST ST., STE. 800 | 918-744-4800 FCSOK.ORG/SERVICES/CRISIS-SERVICES

2026

SPONSORED EDITORIAL

Benjamin Greiner

The Face of Personalized Primary Care

Greiner Internal Medicine, P.C. When it comes to your health, having a physician who cares about getting to know you and your unique needs is much better than finding yourself in the office of someone more concerned with getting to the next patient.

After determining that traditional care models do not allow the time needed to develop deeper, more engaging relationships with patients, Benjamin Greiner, D.O., M.P.H., opened his independent, MDVIP-affiliated practice earlier this year to provide Tulsans with timely, patient-centric primary care.

Dr. Greiner’s relationship-based approach includes longer, unhurried visits and same-day or next-day appointments, along with his availability after hours and on weekends for urgent medical needs. Greiner Internal Medicine, P.C. welcomes patients (and their dependents aged 16 to 26) who desire more personalized and preventive medical care, with a focus on support for prevention and longevity.

What’s different from most traditional primary care practices is that Dr. Greiner offers a membership-based internal medicine practice featuring a smaller patient panel. Compared to traditional practices that have over 2,000 patients, his has fewer than 500. This allows Dr. Greiner to spend

significantly more time with each patient and offer personalized attention.

The MDVIP model offers a unique opportunity to foster a deeper physician-patient relationship, so patients feel like family when they come in.

Through his affiliation with Saint Francis Health System, Dr. Greiner is also able to advocate for his patients with specialists and hospitalists.

Since opening, Greiner Internal Medicine, P.C. has provided a caring and comprehensive option for patients with complex medical conditions.

He also caters to patients who want appointments that start on time with minimal waiting or who want to see their own doctor, not a nurse or PA, every time they need care.

In addition to primary care services, Dr. Greiner sees patients for a variety of medical conditions, including hypertension, diabetes, COPD, allergies and obesity, among other issues.

Dr. Greiner is accepting new members who desire a more individualized approach to primary care.

4785 E. 91ST ST., SUITE 200 | 918-215-3557 MDVIP.COM/DOCTORS/BENJAMINGREINERDO

2026

SPONSORED EDITORIAL

Bakkala family

The Face of Pools and Outdoor Living

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 2026 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

2026

The Face of Residential Real Estate

SPONSORED EDITORIAL

Back row: Heidi Williams, Bill McCollough, Lindsey Schlomann, Becky Orr, Courtney Roberts.

Front row: Kira Allert, Veronica Oswald, Rachel Hicks.

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 adding to an investment portfolio, having the right partner is essential. For the last 88 years, McGraw REALTORS® has been that trusted partner.

Founded in Tulsa in 1938, 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 19 offices across Oklahoma and Arkansas. Built on a foundation of innovation and collaboration, McGraw has helped countless individuals and families achieve their real estate goals through clear, respectful, and professional service.

Buying or selling property is not just a transaction; it’s a life-changing decision. Knowing this, the professionals at McGraw REALTORS® obsess over the experiences of their internal and external customers. With a deep industry expertise 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, agent training and top tier local partnerships to provide you with a seamless experience. 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.

Independent by Design. Dominant by Performance. Contact McGraw REALTORS® to begin your real estate journey today.

4105 S. ROCKFORD AVE. | 918-592-6000 MCGRAWREALTORS.COM

2026

SPONSORED EDITORIAL

Angie and Zach Harbaugh

The Face of Roofing

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, 2025 and 2026 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

2026

SPONSORED EDITORIAL

Back Row: Evan Bogle, Damon Daniel, Tommy Ball, Cody Greene Front Row: Val Lindsay, Mary Stewart, Emily Stewart

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.”

“This year we reformatted the store’s newsletter and are travelling the world through wine,” notes Emily Stewart. “Each month we deep dive into a new region around the globe and review 8-10 bottles of wine from that region. Those bottles will then be discounted in the store for the following month. Enjoy the newsletter from The Ranch!” Patrons can subscribe to the newsletter—it’s free—via our website: ranchacreswine.com.

3324 E. 31ST ST., SUITE A | 918-747-1171 RANCHACRESWINE.COM

SPONSORED EDITORIAL

2026

The Face of Disaster Restoration

Oklahoma Disaster Restoration

At the center of Oklahoma Disaster Restoration (ODR) are Tammy and Jay Stokes visionaries 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

2026

The Face of Drywall

Drywall Specialists Inc. In 2003, Chad Potter founded Drywall Specialists Inc., a residential and commercial drywall installation company that has since completed over 20,000 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 the highest quality 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. works on thousands of Tulsa home remodels and new builds, as well as commercial properties such as medical facilities, office buildings and car dealerships, every year. Led by Potter’s unwavering determination to providing toptier service to the Tulsa community, Drywall Specialists Inc. is excited to help make your next construction project a seamless success.

3904 CHARLES PAGE BLVD. | 918-437-9255 | DRSPROS.COM

Chad Potter

SPONSORED EDITORIAL

The Face of Education

Miss Helen’s Private School

2026

Executive Director Lynda Wingo with Director Jayme Wingo-Baker.

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 54th 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 32 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, 46 years; Christi Ray, Kindergarten Director, 30 years and Pam Elmore, Elementary Lead Teacher, 25 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

2026

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 TulsaPeople.com 69

SPONSORED EDITORIAL 2026

The Face of Family Fun

Tulsa Zoo

Tulsa Zoo was built as a place of discovery for children and adults alike. Since opening its doors as a community asset in 1928, Tulsa Zoo has become Green Country’s largest paid daily attraction, welcoming about 700,000 guests each year.

“The zoo has been fulfilling our mission of connecting, caring and advocating for wildlife, people and wild places for almost 100 years,” Carissa Hon, director of marketing, PR and design services, says. “As we prepare for our centennial celebration and look forward to the next 100 years, we are excited to continue building the world-class zoo our community deserves.”

Tulsa Zoo is many things, from economic and tourism driver to community quality of life indicator. Above all is Tulsa Zoo’s conservation and STEM education impact. More than 300,000 students of all ages benefit each year from zoo educational encounters provided on grounds and in the community. The zoo is a multiyear Henry Bellmon Sustainability Award recipient and Sustainability Alliance’s Scor3card Platinum level organization, the highest achievable.

Tulsa Zoo is owned by the City of Tulsa, managed by nonprofit Tulsa Zoo Management, Inc., accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and a member of World Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

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

2026

The Face of Fireworks and Festivals

The Castle of Muskogee The Castle of Muskogee is proud to present its legendary annual Castle Fireworks Sales through July 5, once again opening up its air conditioned, 30,000-square-foot Great Hall to meet all of Green Country’s pyrotechnic needs.

As Oklahoma’s largest fireworks showroom, the Castle offers more than 500 unique products from top brands — with everything from kid-friendly novelties to breathtaking artillery shells and 500-shot Heavyweight cakes. Every item is clearly labeled with a description and QR code — so shoppers can preview the product before they buy. Not sure which fireworks you want to include in your backyard show? Let the Castle’s knowledgeable staff walk you through the process. The Castle also offers a fully custom shopping experience: just call ahead, share your budget and the occasion, and team will build a personalized cart just for you.

The Castle also keeps a variety of sensory-considerate fireworks options in stock to make Fourth of July festivities more accessible to everyone.

During this year’s fireworks sale, visitors can enjoy special patriotic snacks and sips from Black Boar Pub. And, for every $100 spent, customers earn one free ticket to the opening weekend of the Castle’s Halloween Festival, which kicks off Oct. 2 and runs through the month every Friday and Saturday. Come spring, the grounds will welcome back the annual Renaissance Festival for its 32nd year.

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

70 TulsaPeople JULY 2026

Matt Hiller, Jeff Hiller and Jager

SPONSORED EDITORIAL

Chad Potter and Luis Santiago

2026

The Face of Interior Plaster and Fine Finishes

SAPO - Interior Plaster and Fine Finishes

Founded in Tulsa by local construction experts Chad Potter and Luis Santiago, SAPO Interior Plaster and Fine Finishes is here to serve builders, designers and homeowners alike, looking for quality craftsmanship and custom finishes for their interior plaster projects.

Finishes include Venetian plaster, Limewash, lime plasters, concrete plasters and Moroccan clay plaster along with custom textures and wall coverings. The SAPO team is bolstered by decades of expertise.

Potter and Santiago have joined forces to combine skill sets from two unique backgrounds in painting and drywall installation, building a team of professionally trained staff poised to deliver clients high quality interior plaster finishes. Don’t hesitate to give SAPO a call or head to their website when you are ready to get started with your next interior plaster project.

1545 E. SECOND ST. | 918-810-6568 | SAPOFINEFINISHES.COM

2026

The Face of Mahjong

The Mahjong Social Club Since 2023, The Mahjong Social Club has been spreading mahjong magic across Tulsa and beyond. Founder Courtney Wilson works side-by-side with co-owner Heather Duncan to bring Tulsans all things mahj, from beginner lessons and league play to holiday parties, corporate retreats, fundraisers, girls trips (like Camp Mahj and Bon Voy Mahj) and more.

Everyone is welcome at TMSC. There are no dues, just bring your passion for the game and community! TMSC meets you where you are, and takes you where you want to go with your mahjong journey.

The club’s signature class is a two-hour beginner lesson — an approachable group class designed to help you get started. With ten local teachers, they can accommodate groups of all sizes. After your beginner lesson, TMSC has a variety of ways to stay engaged and plugged into the club’s inclusive community. They also offer a variety of options to support individuals and non-profits hoping to grow their network and raise funds to support a cause.

Whether you are just curious about the game or already dominating the mahj table — there is a place for you at TMSC. You can keep up with club by following along on Instagram, @themahjongsocialclub, and by visiting mahjsocial.com, where you can sign up for The Mahjong Social Club’s newsletter.

918-671-0768 | MAHJSOCIAL.COM

Courtney Wilson and Heather Duncan TulsaPeople.com 71

SPONSORED EDITORIAL

2026

The Face of Marble & Stone Countertops

Eurocraft Granite & Marble

Eurocraft, a leading local provider of marble and stone products has been in the Skaftason family for nearly 50 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.

16052 S. BROADWAY, GLENPOOL | 918-322-5500 EUROCRAFTGRANITE.COM

Ryan Phillips and Hjorny Skaftason

2026

The Face of Patio Parties

The Pump

Turning a retro 1960s gas station into the ultimate hangout spot, The Pump has been providing Tulsans a lively spot to fuel up since opening in 2024.

Founded by Chad and Jackie Potter, this locally owned neighborhood bar and restaurant serves elevated food and curated drinks with the help of director of culinary operations and general manager Chris West — the local legend behind Lasalle’s — who has added his own authentic Cajun flair to the menu.

Whether you’re enjoying the rich, flavorful crawfish etouffee or an expertly crafted cocktail or mocktail, the best seat in the house is on The Pump’s expansive patio — which is complete with games like giant connect four.

You can count on The Pump for a lively experience complete with friendly staff, speedy service, and a chill environment rounded out with funky decor. Situated just a few blocks from The University of Tulsa in the Kendall Whittier District, The Pump stays involved in the community. The team frequently hosts special events including family-friendly crawfish boils, and is an avid supporter of the Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma through initiatives like TulsaPeople’s annual Restaurant Week.

Keep up with The Pump by following them on social media (@pumpbartulsa) or visiting pumpbartulsa.com.

602 S. LEWIS AVE. | 918-810-6765 | PUMPBARTULSA.COM

72 TulsaPeople JULY 2026

SPONSORED EDITORIAL 2026

The Face of Payroll and Tax Processing

Red River Payroll

Steve Hobbs

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. We want our clients to experience the most advanced technology possible and yet we don’t think small business owners should have to sacrifice a personal relationship with their payroll service bureau in order to do that,” says Steve Hobbs, the owner of Red River Payroll.

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

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

2026

The Face of Pet Boutiques

Dog Dish

Twenty-four years ago, Dog Dish opened its doors in Tulsa as a specialty pet boutique with a simple belief: that pets deserve better than the generic. A lot has changed since then—and a lot has changed just this past year.

We’ve been busy. Head to shopdogdish.com to explore our full catalog of products before you ever set foot in the store—and when you’re ready to buy, you’ve got options. Come see us in person, ship your items to your door, schedule a curbside pickup, or choose same-day Uber delivery right at checkout. Yes, really: order on our website, select Uber delivery, and your pet’s favorites show up at your door within hours.

And if your dog’s been eyeing more of an experience, our fenced backyard is now bookable through SniffSpot—with extras you can add on like sprinklers, kiddie pools, mountains of tennis balls, and even a backyard bath time station.

What hasn’t changed? Our commitment to knowing our customers—and their pets. The culture of genuine, knowledgeable care we carry on has been here since day one. Browse at shopdogdish.com, then come see us in person at 2803 S. Harvard—where the product selection is intentional, the advice is real, and the belly rubs are free.

2803 S. HARVARD | 918-624-2600 SHOPDOGDISH.COM

Emily Bollinger with Dennis TulsaPeople.com 73

SPONSORED EDITORIAL

The Face of Personal Injury Lawyer

2026

Greg Denney Law

In 1998, Gregory J. Denney opened his practice at 12th and Cheyenne in downtown Tulsa and he has been there ever since. Today, this premier litigation firm serves clients across Tulsa and neighboring counties, ardently championing their interests in municipal and state courts.

Whether you are battling a denied insurance claim, grieving the tragic loss of a loved one or dealing with a serious accident, the 918-Injured team of passionate attorneys is dedicated to advocating for their clients. Under Greg’s expert guidance, this firm combines extensive courtroom experience with tenacious energy, yielding over 40 combined years of helping protect client’s rights.

The 918-Injured team focuses on complex cases involving personal injury, medical malpractice, accidents and more. Unlike larger firms where clients have limited access to leadership, Greg provides unique client-centered accessibility, offering direct communication even via his personal cell phone. The 918-Injured team brings substantial trial experience to complex cases, demonstrating a proven skill for uncovering hidden or extra insurance coverage to maximize results.

Beyond courtroom advocacy, our 918-Injured team supports the Tulsa community through consistent, hands-on involvement. The team volunteers with nonprofits including Emergency Infant Services and Iron Gate, and holds a beloved tradition of participating in the Tulsa Christmas Parade each year, grounding their practice in active local service.

1204 S CHEYENNE AVE | 918-465-8733 | GREGDENNEYLAW.COM

Greg Denney

2026

The Face of Pet Grooming

Pets Helping People Inc./Muddy Paws LLC Professionals

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 pet groomer 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.”

74 TulsaPeople JULY 2026

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. Recently, Muddy Paws earned the AKC S.A.F.E. (Safety, Assurance, Fundamentals and Education) 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.

2234 E. 56TH PLACE | 918-749-5255 | MUDDY-PAWS.ORG

SPONSORED EDITORIAL 2026

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 14 years, including Soldier’s Wish and The Tulsa Christmas Parade.

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

The Face of Tree Care

Kevin Burr

2026

We B Trees

We B Trees is a family-owned business dedicated to nurturing Tulsa’s tree canopy since 1995. Led by owners Barbara and Tim Nall, the company is guided by Tim’s expertise as a certified arborist, registered forester and tree risk assessment qualified professional.

“Most folks are familiar with the smiling trees in our logo, but we love the opportunity to place the spotlight on our crew members who interface with our customers day in and day out,” Barbara says. The owners are grateful to their longtime customers and dedicated team who strive for professionalism, safety, and customer satisfaction. Tim highlights the company’s strong crew retention who have a combined 25 years of experience with the company.

Omar Caracheo (15 years) is a ground and bucket leader.

Skyler Cardenas (5 years) is a crew foreman and lead climber.

Ron Roberts (3 years) is a lead climber and Trevor Haynes is the newest member, looking forward to celebrating his one-year anniversary on the team soon.

We B Trees keeps thousands of Tulsa’s trees healthy through tree trimming, removal, stump grinding, pest and disease treatments, and arborist consultations. The Nalls have built partnerships with prominent local organizations including the Home Builders Association, Philbrook Museum of Art, River Parks and more.

3755 S. TACOMA AVE. | 918-446-3473 | WEBTREES.COM

Travis Haynes, Omar Caracheo, Tim Nall, Skylar Cardenas, Ron Roberts TulsaPeople.com 75

SPONSORED EDITORIAL 2026

The Face of Wealth Management

Small Wealth Management Small Wealth Management is a private wealth advisory practice serving individuals, families and business owners across Arkansas and Oklahoma. The firm provides comprehensive financial planning services including retirement planning, investment management, 401(k) guidance, college planning, long-term care planning and wealth preservation strategies. Clients work with a dedicated advisor but have access to the full team — a model designed to ensure consistent, high-quality guidance at every stage of life.

The Tulsa office is led by Chris McKeown, APMA®, CRPC™, who joined the firm at its founding — first as an intern, and now as the face of SWM’s presence in Oklahoma. He brings deep knowledge of the regional market and a philosophy shared across the firm: the advisor’s job is to function as the CFO of a client’s financial life. Clients remain the CEO — they make the final calls — but they do so with a trusted partner who lays out the clearest path forward, explains the trade-offs honestly and advocates for what’s in their long-term interest.

Twenty-six years in, Small Wealth Management is as well-positioned as it has ever been — with a seasoned team, a multi-state footprint and a track record of growth that speaks for itself. For individuals and families in the Tulsa area looking for a financial partner built for the long term, the team is ready to have that conversation.

4200 E. SKELLY DRIVE, SUITE 1015 | 918-295-5895 AMERIPRISEADVISORS.COM/TEAM/SMALL-WEALTH-MANAGEMENT Chris McKeown

2026

Jackie Potter

The Face of Wedding and Event Venue

J Potter Collective

J Potter Collective is a collection of unique 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,” Potter says. “I want to make sure their event is one they’ll never forget!”

Potter strives to make the entire 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 lounge style vacation rental perfect for overnight stays or special events with games, an outdoor firepit and lots of room for gathering. For a rustic and refined overnight experience, you can book The Barn at Pecan Valley, which sits on 10 acres and is only three miles from downtown Tulsa.

JPOTTERCOLLECTIVE.COM 76 TulsaPeople JULY 2026

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Mah Jongg

Pla y Day BENEFIT

Experience the fun of playing Mah Jongg, the 19th century game developed in China and popular in the United States since the 1920s.

Our event—a benefit for the Alzheimer’s Association of Oklahoma—will include lunch, a silent auction, favors and prizes. Suggested donation: $75.00.

Come and have fun...for a great cause!

TULSA'S CITY MAGAZINE 1603 S. Boulder Ave., Tulsa, OK 74119 TulsaPeople.com

Questions? Email jenelle.schatz@gmail.com.

Wednesday, August 5, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. | Oaks Country Club TulsaPeople.com 77

delivered by Construction on Harvard?

Here’s a shortcut:

Order online at shopdogdish.com and get same-day delivery by Uber!

78 TulsaPeople JULY 2026

shopdogdish.com | 2803 S. Harvard Ave | 539-525-0213

Lifestyle HOME

HEALTH

TRENDS

Treasure trove

Positioned in a highly visible corridor between Cherry Street and 11th Street, Margaret Pierce introduces a fresh retail destination to Tulsa — one designed to invite shoppers to slow down, browse and celebrate meaningful moments.

MICHELLE POLLARD

READ MORE ON P. 80.

TulsaPeople.com 79

LIFESTYLE

STOREFRONT SHOP FAV O R I T E S

Curate the perfect summer tablescape for holiday celebrations or coastal-inspired weddings with a wide rental selection of festive china and coordinating linens.

(Pricing varies).

In April, entrepreneur Annie Brady opened the door to her latest venture, Margaret Pierce, a unique boutique that offers both rentable and for-purchase items to enhance any milestone celebration.

Legacy in the details Margaret Pierce brings fine china, curated gifts, elevated registry services and more to Tulsa.

The hand-painted, porcelain Chinese Bouquet Baby Shoe in Blue offers a timeless keepsake gift for celebrating a new arrival or christening ($105).

A

nnie Brady always wanted to own a retail shop. After years of building her event planning and design business, Annie Brady Design, and operating the boutique Magpie gift store in Gunboat Park, she’s taking that vision a step further with Margaret Pierce — a new retail concept near East 15th Street and South Peoria Avenue that blends refined tabletop design, legacy gifting, registry services and custom invitations.

Named for Brady’s two children, Maggie and Pierce, the store represents an evolution of her earlier concept, one she describes as “more sophisticated,” while still feeling approachable and personal.

“We want people to walk in here and be inspired,” Brady says.

At the heart of Margaret Pierce is a 65-foot-tall wall of fine china and tabletop pieces, anchoring a renewed focus on wedding registry services and heirloom-quality entertaining. Brady says younger couples are once again embracing formal place settings, not simply as functional items but as future family keepsakes.

“Our society is kind of missing a legacy of fine things,” she says. “Instead of passing along something temporary, how about something that’s multi-generational?”

Th roughout the rest of the store, shoppers will find curated gifts, linens, stationery, paper goods and party planning supplies — much of which can be customized or personalized through engraving, monogramming or thoughtfully assembled gift collections. Rentable linens and tablescape items — such as high-end dishware — are also available for special events.

The store reflects Brady’s signature event design philosophy: elevated but welcoming. “I always think about how my grandmother would set the table with the fancy china,” she says. “It made you feel like something good was happening. It was fun.” tp

80 TulsaPeople JULY 2026

The 20-by-20-inch Route 66 pillow features a hand-embroidered, 100% organic cotton design, accented with black velvet piping and a button closure. A fitting gift for the Route 66 Centennial, it includes a poly insert for everyday comfort ($245).

MARGARET PIERCE

1419 S. Peoria Ave. • 918-340-5945 margaretpierce.com Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

STOREFRONT: MICHELLE POLLARD; BLANKET FLOWER: COMUNC8 / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

BY ANNA HOLTON-DEAN

LIFESTYLE

GARDENING

HOT TOPIC How to protect your plants from a heat wave.

SPONSORED EDITORIAL

TOP 5 REASONS TO BECOME A TULSA MASTER GARDENER 1.

Belong to one of the largest nonprofit organizations in the Tulsa area.

BY ALLEN ROBINSON

Gaillardia, or a Blanket Flower, is a genus of native wildflowers with bright red and yellow flowers and an ability to bloom in hot, dry conditions. The native species, Gaillardia pulchella, is Oklahoma’s state wildflower and makes an excellent garden plant.

T

ulsa’s hot and dry summers can certainly take a toll and wreak havoc on your landscape. Employing a few simple tricks will help to improve your gardening success during those tough times.

PLANT SELECTION: First and foremost, selecting plants that are naturally adapted to heat and drought reduces maintenance, conserves water and increases long-term success. Choose high-quality plants that are native to our area and suited to USDA Hardiness Zone 7. Our local nurseries have both excellent selections and expert advice. You can visit extension.okstate.edu and search “Oklahoma proven” to find researchbased tree, shrub and plant selections.

GROUPING: Group plants together that have similar environmental needs (i.e., sunlight, water, nutrients, soil pH).

WATERING FOR IN-GROUND PLANTS: Water deeply and infrequently. Th is practice encourages robust root systems to expand deeper in the ground where it is moist and cooler. To minimize evaporation, water early in the morning when the relative humidity is higher and the winds are lower so plants can better absorb the moisture and get fully hydrated. Consider a drip irrigation system that targets water directly to the base of the plant and roots vs. the foliage. Plants like their torsos (leaves/foliage) warm and dry, and their toes (base/roots) cool and moist.

WATERING FOR POTTED/CONTAINER PLANTS: Because potted plants will dry out significantly faster than in-ground plants, daily watering on hot, windy days will likely be

required. Container plants are a great place to consider using a simple drip irrigation system.

Low-cost timers can be installed on outdoor water faucets to deliver reliable watering during vacation.

MULCH: Mulch insulates the bare soil from the sun, which reduces surface moisture evaporation and keeps the root zones cooler. Surface soil temperatures can be 10-20 degrees higher without mulch. A good quality organic mulch (i.e., compost, pine bark, aromatic cedar, straw, leaf mulch) is recommended (2-4 inches deep is plenty).

Avoid mounding it close to tree trunks and plant stems as that invites disease and pests.

SHADING: For veggies, consider using a shade cloth to protect them from the intense afternoon sun.

WEEDING: Stay on top of pulling weeds as they cleverly compete for water and nutrients.

FERTILIZATION: Avoid fertilizing during heat waves to prevent tender new growth from burning.

PRUNING: Hold off on pruning, as even burned leaves offer shade for the inner plant structure.

Taking these few simple steps during the hottest dog days of summer will improve your plants’ probability of success and lower your gardening stress level. Now, have a cold glass of tea or jump in the pool! tp

2.

Receive training from a professional staff of OSU horticultural professors.

3.

Be part of a 400-plus volunteer organization whose mission is to educate the public on research-based horticulture.

4.

Get to meet a lot of friendly people that simply love to garden, serve the public and help beautify our community.

5.

Be part of something that is both rewarding and a ton of fun!

LEARN MORE AT

Thank you to Tulsa County Master Gardeners for their expertise in this subject matter. Allen Robinson has been a Master Gardener since 2010.

TulsaPeople.com 81

LIFESTYLE

BEYOND CITY LIMITS

Riversport OKC

MAKE A SPLASH From water sports to luxury resorts, surf through OKC’s summer activity options.

I

f you’re craving some sun, sand and water, you don’t have to travel out of state to get your fi x. Although the Sooner State may not have any oceanfront shoreline, Riversport OKC adventure park has turned Oklahoma City into a world-class water sports destination, making it a great spot to stay cool.

Want to rip a wave on a surf board? Go whitewater rafting on some Class II-IV rapids? Grab a Riversport day pass to experience the water in many different ways — from adrenaline pumping to peaceful and calm. Located in OKC’s Boathouse District, Riversport is also an official U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Training Site, and it will serve as the canoe slalom venue for the 2028 Los Angeles Summer Olympic Games.

If that feels too far away, fear not — Riversport will host the prestigious ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships July 20-25, drawing hundreds of professional athletes from around the world. During the summer, Riversport is also offering $25 NightWater passes on select Thursdays and 82 TulsaPeople JULY 2026

Fridays that include rafting, surfing and tubing from 5-8 p.m.

When you’re ready to get out of the sun, you can head to the First Americans Museum (FAM) in the Horizons District, which is less than 10 minutes from the Boathouse District by car. The awardwinning, 175,000-square-foot museum brings together the unique histories of Oklahoma’s 39 sovereign tribes through storytelling, cultural artifacts and art.

Last fall, the museum opened the FAMily Discovery Center, inviting people to step inside an installation made to look like the pages of an illustrated pop-up book. The fully immersive experience engages visitors of all ages with hands-on activities that dispel stereotypes, build resilience, and inspire community and environmental stewardship.

Don’t forget to grab a bite to eat at FAM’s 39 Restaurant, which welcomed Kickapoo chef Crystal Wahpepah to the team earlier this year. A James Beard Award finalist and author of “A Feather and a Fork,” Wahpepah uses her philosophy of

Indigenous food as medicine to curate an inspiring culinary experience.

Also located in the Horizons District is OKANA, Oklahoma City’s newest indoor/ outdoor water park and luxury resort.

Replete with nearly a dozen pools, thrilling attractions, a white sand beach, elevated dining experiences and a day spa, OKANA offers something for everyone.

For a lush, tropical experience go to the Myriad Botanical Gardens, a 15-acre garden oasis nestled against Oklahoma City’s striking skyline. At the heart of the gardens is the Crystal Bridge Conservatory, where visitors can discover a cascading waterfall, exotic plants and striking art installations.

The outdoor portion of the gardens is equally vibrant, featuring a vintage carousel, ornamental flowers, and a children’s garden and playground. In the summer, kids can make a splash in the garden’s seasonal water features, including the newly renovated Thunder Fountain. Whether you choose to make your OKC visit a day trip or opt to stay overnight, you’re bound to find a new adventure in our state’s capital. tp

VISIT OKLAHOMA CITY

BY FAITH HARL

TulsaPeople’s 40th anniversary celebration continues with TWO giveaways during FREEDOM MONTH! Anniversary Giveaway #13 Package includes gift cards for Travers Mahan and Sushi Hana! $175 value Register to win by July 15

Anniversary Giveaway #14 Package includes gift cards for Travers Mahan, Dust Bowl Tulsa and Coffee House on Cherry Street! $175 value Register to win July 16 - August 2

VISIT

TO REGISTER!

One winner for each giveaway will be notified following the deadline and will have 48 hours to respond.

Returning to The Cowboy on July 25!

FROM THE CREATORS OF IMMERSIVE VAN GOGH

get your tickets now

thecowboy.org/immersive

TulsaPeople.com 83

LIFESTYLE

New in midtown Tulsa, boutique luxury spa Red Clay Beauty utilizes its own line of botanical skincare products. As owner Ronnie Jo Wolters explains, “All of our skincare starts at the seed in our garden.”

Grounded glam Red Clay Beauty’s seed-to-skin spa care.

BY MACY GOODNIGHT

R

ed Clay Beauty isn’t just a boutique luxury beauty spa, but the living dream of owner Ronnie Jo Wolters. Inspired from a young age by her grandmother, Rose Sienkiewicz, a Polish immigrant who made her own skincare products using ingredients grown in her garden, Wolters wanted to incorporate that same “seed-to-skincare” model into her own holistic venture.

“She had the most flawless skin at 80 years old,” Wolters recalls. “She always cared about skincare.”

84 TulsaPeople JULY 2026

As an aesthetics and lymphatic health specialist, the entrepreneur opened Red Clay Beauty (2511 E. 21st St.) to provide a specialized approach focused on overall wellness. The spa utilizes botanical-based products made in part with ingredients Wolters grows herself. RCB offers advanced aesthetics and an in-house-formulated skincare line that blends science, botanicals and Oklahoma-crafted products.

“Red Clay Beauty pairs clinically backed anti-aging acids/ingredients with our own plant based botanicals, then refines

each formula through modern technology and research,” she says. “Every product is designed to deliver optimal skin results while enhancing clients' natural beauty.”

The botanicals incorporated into RCB’s skincare start from seeds in Wolters’ own garden, including (but not limited to) rosemary, mint, rose, marigold, citronella, loofah and aloe.

“We grow it, we process it, we develop our own skincare, and from that skincare, we do the spa services. It’s a full circle of production,” she says.

Among RCB’s services — which include waxing, halotherapy, scalp treatments and a range of facial packages — the Geneo X Glo2 Facials are a highlight. Th is premium treatment and skin-health reset features advanced technologies for targeted rejuvenation.

The lymphatic-focused services at RCB, such as the lymphatic drainage facial and full body lymphatic drainage, offer numerous internal benefits for overall wellness.

“A lymphatic drainage at Red Clay Beauty gently stimulates the skin’s natural detox pathways, helping the face release excess fluid, reduce inflammation and restore a lifted, sculpted appearance,” Wolters says. “Th is treatment supports immunity, boosts circulation and encourages deeper oxygen flow to the tissues, leaving the complexion brighter, clearer and more balanced.”

Prior to becoming a licensed esthetician and opening Red Clay Beauty, Wolters studied under professional mentors in biomedical research, which prepared her to provide RCB’s lymphatic drainage services.

“I understand how the lymphatic system functions in the body and how to safely stimulate lymphatic flow through professional manual techniques to enhance clients’ natural beauty and overall rejuvenation,” she says.

From her specialized background experience and deeply rooted familial inspiration, Wolters is able to spend her everyday helping clients feel their absolute best.

“It makes me emotional because I am really helping people,” Wolters says. “I’m obsessed with the brand and with our future.”

As consistency is key in skincare, RCB offers various membership options — check them out at redclaybeauty.com, where you can also learn more about the boutique spa, shop products and book appointments. tp

MICHELLE POLLARD

BEAUTY

LIFESTYLE

WELLNESS

Players keep active at a Courts and Cardio Session at Courts and Commons. Inset, Courts and Commons director of communications and branding, Jennifer Venable, with the facility’s owner, Josh Juarez.

Paddles and pals Fast-paced fitness finds a home on the pickleball court.

BY ABIGAIL SINGREY

F

or many people, the hardest part of exercise isn’t the workout, it’s showing up. That’s why classes like Courts and Cardio are attracting attention, replacing repetitive gym routines with fast-paced pickleball sessions that keep participants moving without feeling like traditional exercise.

Hosted at Courts and Commons, 7921 E. 119th Drive in Bixby, Courts and Cardio combines the social fun of pickleball with structured cardiovascular training.

Players move through a series of fast-paced drills designed to keep heart rates elevated throughout the class. Unlike a typical pickleball game, there is little downtime.

Participants switch partners around every 20 minutes, and if a ball rolls away, coaches immediately feed another one into play so the action never stops.

“You’re scoring points, cheering with your partner, and high-fiving,” says Jennifer Venable, the director of communications and branding at Courts and Commons. “It’s a pickleball game without the downtime.”

The result is a workout that feels more like recreation than exercise.

“Courts and Cardio gives a great workout you can look forward to doing with an encouraging community of people,” Venable says.

The inspiration for the class came from a group of Courts and Commons participants who wanted a more fitness-focused approach to the game. For that original group, the combination of fitness and fun keeps them coming back.

“After I tried it, I loved it more than I loved playing pickleball,” participant Kim Juarez says. “It’s just so fast-moving and high-energy.”

For others, the appeal extends beyond the workout itself.

“I’ve gone to every single class they’ve had since it started, except for when we’ve been on vacation,” participant Keri Moffitt says. “It seems to help with mobility. I’m not as stiff as I was when we started.”

The program is designed for a wide range of skill levels, with classes available for beginner, intermediate and advanced players. Participants can improve their cardiovascular fitness while also developing pickleball skills, making it an appealing option for people who want exercise with a purpose.

Perhaps most importantly, the classes foster a sense of community. Because players rotate partners throughout the session, they have the opportunity to meet new people while encouraging one another through the drills.

That social aspect may be one reason the program has gained such enthusiastic supporters.

“If you aren’t friends when you started, you will be by the end of the class,” Venable says.

You can learn more about all of Courts and Commons programs and events, plus find registration information for Courts and Cardio, at book.courtsandcommons.com/ events. tp TulsaPeople.com 85

LIFESTYLE

MUSINGS

Another stormy blast

BY CONNIE CRONLEY

I tried to console myself by what I gained from this loss.

I could walk down the hall at night without tripping over him.

I could open the door to a visitor without his crowding around me to greet them fi rst.

I could hope that bare patch in the front yard might grow grass again.

I could sleep through the night without 86 TulsaPeople JULY 2026

the two-hour distress of his Cushing’s disease.

I could skip a day without sweeping and vacuuming dirt tracked in by a big, shaggy dog.

It didn’t work. What I wouldn’t give to have those little vexations again. What I wouldn’t give to have him waiting at the door when I came back from errands, sit outside and watch the sunset with me, trail after me from room to room. Zeke left a hole in my chest you could throw a basketball through. I was literally faint with grief.

The house was empty yet so claustrophobic I had to go outside to breathe.

When another pet dies, it doesn’t get easier, it gets harder. Grief is cumulative, it stacks on all the other griefs, getting heavier and heavier. Then there’s the guilt, the second-guessing, the blame. Was this the right time to help him die? Was there more medical care? Could I have done more, been more attentive, been more patient?

Not long after that, I had a visit from a young gentleman caller. William is nine years old, a third grader and the best conversationalist in the neighborhood.

Nobody else has told me how many mosquitoes it takes to suck all the blood out of a human’s body (more than 200,000).

We sat on the front porch and drank Italian sparkling water. William said he can spell “Italian” and proved it. William can

also speak Spanish and spoke a few phrases to prove that.

We compared the merits of reading to math. Reading tests in the third grade, William explained, take hours, involve paragraph after paragraph and psychological questions. Well, who wouldn’t find that onerous? “Actually,” William said — “actually” is one of his favorite words — he prefers math. He knows what twelve times twelve is and proved it (one hundred and forty-four).

Suddenly he looked around and asked, “Where is your dog Zeke?”

“Zeke died a week ago,” I said softly. “It broke my heart.”

“Oh!” he exclaimed. He closed his eyes, threw back his head and clapped his hand to his heart. “Oh, it breaks my heart, too.”

When Zeke died, friends came with flowers and wine and cake and sympathy cards and commiserating tears. They were adults who know exactly how it feels when a pet dies. William’s compassion touched me most of all. He is only nine years old and although he doesn’t know it, he has many stormy blasts ahead of him. I do know it.

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

ALLYSSA REEDER

I

came across the term “stormy blast” recently, a phrase that has fallen out of favor but a sensation that abounds all too often. The phrase is included in an 18th century hymn by Isaac Watts, “O God, Our Help in Ages Past,” which references Psalm 90. Both the hymn and psalm seek shelter in faith.

Watts was an English theologian and popular hymn writer. He was so prolific — credited with writing at least 750 hymns — he has been called the “Father of English Hymnody,” another word I don’t often see.

It’s said he wrote a hymn for almost every sermon he preached, hymns so poetic and admired, they had a lasting influence on English worship.

A “stormy blast” has come to mean life’s trials, turbulence of fierce winds or intense winters that knock us down again and again. I felt a stormy blast recently when my dog Zeke, the happiest dog in Tulsa County, died. Pet owners will understand when I say it knocked me to the ground.

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

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

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

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

McGraw Realtors

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

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

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

207 Gary Drive, Vinita, OK $799,000

BIXBY This single-level full brick home features 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a 2-car garage situated on a scenic, fully fenced 3-acre corner lot in Bixby. The carpet-free interior offers a spacious living room and an island kitchen, seamlessly connecting to large front and back covered porches perfect for outdoor living. Zoned AG with no HOA, the property boasts extensive 2024 updates—including a new AC/heating unit, water heater, and electrical panel—making it a rare find located at 4899 E 191st St S, Bixby, OK 74008 for $300,000.

OAKS COUNTRY CLUB This stunning 4,549square-foot estate sits on a private one-acre lot backing up to the Oaks Country Club. The home features unique architectural details like a two-story turret with a circular staircase and a dramatic stone fireplace. Modern updates include a kitchen with quartz countertops and thermal windows, while the exterior offers a massive $30 \times 40$ stone patio and a fourcar garage with a builtin tornado shelter.

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

SOLD!

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

2433 E 33rd Street, $565,000

MIDTOWN Built in 1950 and occupied by the current owners since 1995. This one level home has undergone renovations like roof, newer heat and air, upgraded electrical, hot water tank and kitchen upgrades since 2018. A comfortable oone level home with a newer master bathroom!2 large living areas and 3 bathrooms make this home a must see.

2812 E 29th St, Tulsa. $599,000

TulsaPeople.com 87

McGraw Realtors

LauraBryant 918.693.2961

918.808.4780

lbryant@mcgrawok.com

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

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

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

4331 S Norfolk Ave, Tulsa 3 Beds | 3 Baths | 1,945 sq.ft.| $379,900

4655 S Trenton Ave, Tulsa 3 Bed | 1 Bath | 1,345 sq.ft | $239,900

Scan here to view more listings!

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

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

3215 E 65th St S, Tulsa 5 Bed | 6 Baths |7,992 sq.ft.|$2,995,000

304 S 76th St, Broken Arrow 4 Bed | 3.5 Baths |3,247 sq.ft.|$592,000

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

HEARTWOOD COMMONS TULSA’S ONLY COHOUSING COMMUNITY Active Adult Living Where Neighbors Become Friends | Established Fall 2024

Vibrant Community: A close-knit neighborhood designed for social connection and sustainability.

Prime Location: Just one block from Arkansas River Parks trails; near Gathering Place and Turkey Mountain.

Private Homes: Energy-efficient, single-story, accessible layouts (750–1,500 sq. ft.) with large covered porches.

The Common House: Shared gourmet kitchen, great room, art studio, and media room for meals and activities.

Guest Amenities: Two private on-site guest rooms with baths for visiting family and friends.

Outdoor Perks: Community garden, dog park, walking paths, fire pit, and shared tool library.

All-Inclusive HOA: One fee covers water, sewer, trash, recycling, high-speed internet, cable, and long-term maintenance.

TOUR & PURCHASE: Contact Jenny Wilner: (415) 624-7353 Email: jwilner@mcgrawrealtors.com 88 TulsaPeople JULY 2026

FOUR UNITS NOW FOR SALE!

Table Talk DINING

FOOD

DRINKS

READ MORE ON P. 92.

OF LEMONS AND LEXICON

MICHELLE POLLARD

W

hile not necessary, a short vocabulary lesson may be helpful before visiting Brookside’s newest nosh spot, Little Belly Izakaya. In Japan, an izakaya is a gastropub where people gather to share good times over great drinks and small plates. Serving up Japanese-American pub-style food like the Yuzu Lemon Pepper Pork Katsu, Little Belly plays with the idea of betsubara — or “second stomach.” There’s always room for one more bite, one more round, one more laugh. tp

TulsaPeople.com 89

TA B L E TA L K

DINING OUT

Forno Santo's Sausage and Polenta appetizer alongside the Mortadella Pizza. The McNellie’s Group opened the new Italian concept in downtown’s Santa Fe Square in April. “Forno Santo is more about the energy of a downtown dining room: pizza, pasta, wine, cocktails and the feeling of gathering around a public square,” explains Ben Alexander, chef and head of culinary operations for McNellie’s Group.

A little Italy Forno Santo brings a modern Italian approach to Tulsa.

BY JARED S. GLEATON 90 TulsaPeople JULY 2026

MICHELLE POLLARD

I

n downtown Tulsa’s Santa Fe Square, Forno Santo opened in April with a clear focus on ingredient quality and execution. Backed by the McNellie’s Group — one of the defining forces in Oklahoma’s modern dining scene — the restaurant evokes a feeling of timelessness, giving off the sense that friends and family have been gathering there over good food and wine for generations.

“Its location in the middle of Santa Fe Square is inspired by the restaurants you see in Italy and across Europe — places that sit on the edge of a plaza, where people gather and feel connected to the life of the neighborhood,” says Ben Alexander, chef and head of culinary operations for the McNellie’s Group.

Noting the food at Forno Santo is a nod to New York’s vibrant Italian-American community, Alexander says his approach to Italian cooking draws from tradition while remaining grounded in sourcing and technique.

“We’re not trying to do strictly traditional Italian,” Alexander says. “It’s more of a modern approach — respecting the spirit of Italian cooking without being overly rigid about it. I’m using great ingredients and classic techniques, but I want the menu to feel current, approachable and right for Tulsa.”

All pastas are made fresh in-house, and several dishes reflect the travel memories of Elliot Nelson, the CEO and founder of the McNellie’s Group. These include the popular Neapolitan street food Frittatina Di Pasta — battered and fried noodles shaped into a disc — and the Wagyu Bolognese, which Nelson tried in Bologna as a child and says he still thinks about decades later.

Walking into Forno Santo, the dining room is palpably welcoming — blending dark wood, banquette seating and structured shelving with clean, contemporary finishes. The space is “inspired by the kind of timeless, bustling restaurants we love,” Alexander notes, “ones that feel like they’ve been there for a long time, even when they’re new.”

The bar draws the eye fi rst; its stainless steel surface and display of wine and spirits create a natural gathering point. Guests move easily between bar and table seating, creating steady energy without overwhelming the room. Beyond the bar, the dining room opens into a layout that feels social yet comfortable.

An opening into the kitchen offers a view of the oven, where pizzas pirouette into the air and dishes come together. Guests can watch Alexander and his team at work,

creating a rich and lively backdrop to the meal. Service is attentive and well-paced with a clear focus on the guest, reflecting the hospitality-driven approach of the McNellie’s Group.

Moving into the menu, options are composed of starters, pizzas, house-made pastas and specials. At each tier, the dishes progress from lighter, more contrasting flavors into richer, more structured plates.

For those starting lighter, the shaved ham and melon sets the tone early, pairing the salt and depth of Benton’s Country Ham with the cooling sweetness of melon.

Oregano vinaigrette and fresh dill add brightness, while hazelnuts introduce texture and a subtle nuttiness that rounds out the dish.

For a more substantial starter, the sausage and polenta is a great, hearty option.

The polenta is smooth and cohesive, providing a soft foundation for Fontanini sausage, which carries notes of fennel and pork with a well-developed char. The accompanying peperonata brings sweetness and acidity, tying all the components together.

From there, the menu shifts toward pizzas, which are wood-fi red in a handbuilt Marra Forni oven. Reaching a temperature of 900 degrees, the artisanal brick oven allows for consistent and quick cooking — about 90 seconds. Among the many tempting options, the mortadella pizza is a clear standout; the fi rst bite lands with a soft, almost creamy quality, as mustard seed introduces a tangy richness that is quickly balanced by the buttery depth of the mortadella. The dough, showing clear signs of fermentation with well-developed leoparding (the leopard-like spots that appear on the bottom of pizza crust when it’s cooked perfectly), provides structure and subtle complexity, while onion and pistachio add contrast in both texture and flavor. A light char lingers at the finish, pleasingly topping off the bite.

Pastas remain a highlight, with each made fresh in-house. The orecchiette with spicy Prairie Creek Farms sausage is cooked with precision, the pasta holding its shape while carrying a pork-forward jus. Bitter greens add an intriguing layer, allowing the dish to move from spice to bitterness to richness in a cohesive progression. The Wagyu Bolognese leans into a deeper, meat-forward profi le, tempered by a layer of ricotta cream that softens the richness and creates a more balanced finish. The garganelli with mushrooms offers a more restrained expression, balancing earthy depth and cream while keeping the pasta itself at the center.

Clockwise from top left: Basque Cheesecake, Ham and Melon appetizer, and Chef Ben Alexander, McNellie’s Group head of culinary operations with Chef de Cuisine Sam English

To finish, desserts follow the same measured approach. The pistachio Basque cheesecake delivers a silky, custard-like texture, while the hazelnut budino (Italianstyle pudding; specific flavor rotates) offers a richer counterpoint, layered with chocolate and nutty depth and lifted by a light topping of whipped cream. Desserts feel like a natural extension of the meal, bringing everything to a satisfying close.

At Forno Santo, the goal is clear: to create a restaurant rooted in quality and consistency. In doing so, Alexander and the

team offer Tulsa diners an experience that feels both thoughtful and approachable — one that reflects the city’s growing appetite for ingredient-driven cooking while offering a little slice of New York in the heart of Green Country. tp

Forno Santo

503 E. Second St. S. • 918-221-7899 11 a.m.-2p.m., 4-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-12 a.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday TulsaPeople.com 91

TA B L E TA L K

WHAT’S COOKING

Nationally recognized chefs Marco Herrera and Sheamus Feeley co-owns the new eatery Little Belly at 3535 S. Peoria Ave. The concept, open daily from 5-10 p.m., fuses food styles together to create dishes like the “Okiemiyaki” — a play on a savory okonomiyaki Japanese pancake that incorporates smoked brisket.

Get in my belly New Japanese-American restaurant brings big flavor and fun to Brookside.

BY JARED S. GLEATON 92 TulsaPeople JULY 2026

MICHELLE POLLARD; CHALKBOARD: COURTESY

A

t Little Belly Izakaya, fried bites like Yuzu Lemon Pepper Pork Katsu and Karaage share menu space with fusion plates such as Ribeye Au Poivre and Miso Caesar Brussles, while piña coladas come served as Matcha Coladas in vintage Benihana mugs. The Brookside concept from Chefs Marco Herrera and Sheamus Feeley embraces what the pair call a “traditionally untraditional” approach to Japanese-American fusion — one built less around strict authenticity and more on fun, frivolity and the kind of food people genuinely want to come back for.

“There’s nothing about Little Belly that is traditional,” Feeley says. “It pays homage, and it gives a tip of the cap to a lot of things, but no one is trying to be traditional. All we want to do is create something that is delicious and uniquely ours.”

Herrera describes the food simply as “Japanese-American pub food and pub culture,” pairing Japanese techniques and flavors with Oklahoma personality and a playful sense of humor. The restaurant’s “Okiemiyaki” riffs on traditional okonomiyaki with smoked brisket from Mac’s BBQ , while cocktails like a Brown Butter Miso Old Fashioned are poured tableside from a soy sauce bottle. Miller High Lifes can be found alongside Suntory whiskey and Japanese highballs, creating a restaurant that feels intentionally approachable rather than overly precious.

Some of the details found within Little Belly’s dishes — like roasted onions layered onto burgers and soy-pickled chilies folded into tuna — also reflect Herrera’s own heritage. “They’re techniques common in Mexican food,” he says.

“A lot of how I cook is inspired by my MexicanAmerican background.”

Little Belly marks Herrera’s return to Oklahoma after spending the past year working as the Director of Culinary for the Michelinstarred Fonda Fina Hospitality Group in Denver. Prior to his Colorado move, Herrera and Feeley helped ignite national attention around Tulsa dining through Noche Woodfi red Grill & Agave Bar, which was named one of America’s Best Restaurants in 2024 by The New York Times and earned a James Beard Award semifinalist nomination for Best New Restaurant in 2025. Now reunited under their new venture, Sobremesa Hospitality, the pair say Little Belly reflects a deliberate shift away from chasing prestige and toward building something approachable, energetic and built for everyday enjoyment.

“I realized I just want it to be fun,” Herrera says. “Is it delicious? Is it craveable? Could you eat it Monday through Sunday? That’s what matters.” tp

PRHYMEd for success PRHYME Downtown Steakhouse has been named recipient of the DiRōNA Award of Excellence, joining just two other Oklahoma restaurants to hold the distinction: Polo Grill and Jimmy’s Chophouse. The award, given by Distinguished Restaurants of North America since 1990, recognizes restaurants across the continent that stand apart for their ability to create exceptional guest experiences.

Unlike many industry honors, restaurants cannot apply for the DiRōNA award.

Evaluation is conducted anonymously by trained assessors, and recognition is extended by invitation only. The award is regarded as one of the most credible benchmarks in fine dining, comparable in prestige to a Michelin star designation.

The connection to Polo Grill adds a meaningful layer to the recognition for Justin Thompson, owner and proprietor chef of PRHYME, as he began his culinary career at the Utica Square restaurant in 2002. “When I started at the Polo Grill at 23, I remember seeing their DiRōNA award and not fully understanding what it took to earn one.

Twenty-three years later, I do,” Thompson said in a press release. “Going from working in a DiRōNA-awarded restaurant to owning one is humbling in the best way.”

Find menus and reservations at prhymetulsa.com. — STAFF REPORTS

COCKTAIL/ MOCKTAIL LIST

Ready to unwind with a delicious drink in hand? Consider heading to one of these spots — the winners of the annual TulsaPeople A-LIST Readers’ Choice Awards.

BAR SERRA

1876 Utica Square, Suite 2E 918-727-7227 barserra.com NOLA’S CREOLE & COCKTAILS

1334 E. 15th St. 918-779-7766 nolastulsa.com

RED DOOR GRILLE

5964 S. Yale Ave. 918-551-7652 reddoorgrille.com

THE STARLITE BAR

1902 E. 11th St. 918-701-0274 thestarlitebar.com VALKYRIE

The Chalkboard Kitchen and Bar celebrates its 50th Anniversary with $50 Prix Fixe Menus.

50TH ANNIVERSARY FUN The Chalkboard marks a milestone with curated specials

The Chalkboard Kitchen and Bar inside Tulsa’s historic Ambassador Hotel (1324 S. Main St.) is celebrating its 50th “golden” anniversary this summer with a trio of promotions themed around the occasion.

Festive offerings include a $50 prix fixe menu available at both the Tulsa and Oklahoma City Chalkboard Kitchen and Bar locations. The menu highlights legacy dishes like Beef Wellington bites, 10-hour braised short rib and Chalkboard Bread Pudding. Diners can elevate their meal with the 50th Anniversary Old Fashioned — a timeless classic with a twist. Available for $50, the beverage is crafted with Remus Gatsby Reserve bourbon, demerara sugar, aromatic bitters and topped with a flamed orange peel.

You can take the festivities to the next level with the Ambassador Hotel’s Golden Anniversary Hotel Package. Exclusive to the Tulsa location, this bundle includes a prix fixe dinner for two, golden truffles and 500,000 bonus points. Couples celebrating their 50th anniversary this year and staying at Ambassador Hotel Tulsa will receive a bottle of bubbly and golden truffles upon check in (hotel must be notified in advance). Learn more and book reservations at thechalkboardkitchen.com.— STAFF REPORTS

13 E. Reconciliation Way 918-508-2285 valkyrietulsa.com Bar Serra

TulsaPeople.com 93

TA B L E TA L K

WHAT THE ALE

Cheers to eight years!

A toast to work and whimsy as Welltown Brewing slides into its 8th anniversary.

BY TOM GILBERT

I

WORK HARD, PLAY HARD The brewery started out as most do — striving for quality beer and to be a place for the community to gather. But like all businesses, plans evolve. One of the biggest shifts came when Diamond realized he needed a sustainable way to feed hungry patrons.

“We always thought food trucks would be enough,” he says. “But they weren’t always reliable. Sometimes they’d show up, sometimes they wouldn’t.”

The solution was building an in-house kitchen in 2021 that hosts the popular Nuggies chicken concept, a project that became one of several changes helping Welltown stay successful.

94 TulsaPeople JULY 2026

Welltown Brewing’s Head Brewer David Solomon and Owner Jeremy Diamond on Welltown’s roof, which has been converted into a “Trailer Camp” for the summer months.

Welltown also changed its approach toward special events. Instead of competing with the rest of the city during popular celebrations, Diamond wanted Welltown to create experiences that belong exclusively to the brewery and help drive traffic during typically slower periods. That led to Sip ‘N Slide, an annual summer event that has become one of the brewery’s biggest yearly successes. The event typically attracts around 3,000 attendees, helping establish Welltown as more than just a place to drink beer.

Planned this year for Aug. 1, the iconic downtown “pool party” transforms the bridge on Boulder into an over 500-foot water slide which Diamond had custommade for the event. Four giant inflatable pools — also custom-made — add to the fun and aid in keeping crowds cool.

Running from 12 p.m.-12 a.m., participants can also expect live local music and DJs, dancing, foam raining from overhead and, of course, cold Welltown brews.

“There’s something special with people returning back to childhood,” Diamond says. “Even full-grown adults want to return to some capacity of nostalgia, and what’s more ‘childhood’ than summer fun on a slip ‘n slide?”

Twice a year, Welltown also utilizes their rooftop to keep the whimsy going.

During the summer months, four adorably decked out vintage trailers are hoisted up onto the building and can be rented in 2-hour blocks for retro good times with friends. In winter, Iglootown takes over, and Welltown guests can snuggle up in heated igloos befitted with blankets and other cozy amenities.

DIAMOND, SOLOMON: TOM GILBERT; SLIDE: NEAT MEDIA HOUSE

t has been more than a decade since Welltown Brewing owner Jeremy Diamond fi rst walked into the building at 114 W. Archer St. The space itself has a storied past, having lived multiple past lives as a bar called Dead Town Tavern, a tattoo shop, an auto repair garage and a residence. During Welltown’s renovation process, workers even discovered bullets embedded in the walls.

“We officially opened on June 22, 2018,” Diamond says. “It’s kind of crazy to think we’re coming up on eight years.”

Those eight years have brought lots of changes, both for Welltown and the Tulsa Arts District. When the brewery fi rst opened, Diamond says the western edge of the Arts District felt isolated.

“We were kind of on an island,” he says.

It was a gamble to start a business in an area that many considered difficult.

But now, what was once a collection of warehouses and industrial space has become a thriving extension of the Arts District, with Welltown becoming an anchor in the area along the way.

“I grew up in Tulsa,” says Head Brewer David Solomon. “When I was younger, downtown was basically empty. I’d come down here to skateboard because there was no traffic and nobody around. You can’t really do that anymore.”

Celebrate Y our We d di n g

in

TulsaPeople welcomes wedding photo submissions for possible publication in our April 2027 REAL WEDDINGS special section. We request that submissions include 4-6 photographs from Tulsa residents who were married in 2026.

Send submissions to editor@langdonpublishing.com.

Unfortunately, we may not be able to feature every wedding that is submitted, but will follow up with those we plan to feature to collect more details.

Don’t miss Welltown’s annual Sip ‘N Slide event on August 1, which turns the downtown Boulder Avenue bridge between West First Street and West Archer Street into a giant outdoor water playground for adults.

“We really strive to give people experiences,” Diamond says. “Alcohol is one thing, but people like to drink and spend time either with people or friends, or just be social, or have some sort of an experience.

So in everything that I do at Welltown, I’m always trying to push that narrative.”

DEALING WITH CHALLENGES Nationwide, the growth breweries saw during the 2010s has slowed. Consumer preferences are always ebbing and flowing, which forces breweries to remain flexible.

Diamond thinks the industry has begun stabilizing after several difficult years.

“We’ve lost some breweries along the way,” he says. “But I think we’re starting to find our footing again.”

Besides events, another reason for Welltown’s strong reputation within the community has been the decision to move back to self-distribution after working with an outside distributor proved frustrating.

“We realized we were just another product in a giant book,” Diamond says. “Since coming back to self distro, which has been a couple years now, we’ve more than doubled our sales. We are a very relation-driven team, and that really mattered a lot to us.”

According to Solomon, customers also appreciated the personal connection.

“They like dealing directly with us,” he says. “It’s more personal.”

The brewery has also expanded its reach through collaborations with local businesses, custom beers for restaurants and hospitality partners, and relationships with retailers such as Trader Joe’s. They also brew beer for the Brut Hotel and sell many of their products in liquor stores around Tulsa.

When Welltown opened, the brewery operated with approximately 40 barrels of capacity. Today, that number has more than doubled to roughly 100 barrels, allowing them to keep pace with demand while maintaining a steady rotation of new releases.

Among the brewery’s most popular offerings is Siesta Cervesa, an 8% Imperial Mexican Lager that has developed a loyal following. The tart, refreshing Berry Bliss is another of Welltown’s longtime favorites.

Still, Solomon says innovation remains a priority. The brewery regularly experiments with new styles and seasonal offerings while balancing production needs for distribution and the taproom. tp

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LAST LOOK

TULSA TIME WARP

A 1926 image of Purity Ice Cream Company’s newly complete building — nicknamed the “Sunlight Factory” — located on the southwest corner of North Denver Avenue and West Brady Street (today, Reconciliation Way).

‘Sunlight Factory’

I

n 1908, the Purity Ice Cream Company launched as one of the first ice cream companies in Oklahoma.

The organization operated from several locations in Tulsa before beginning construction of a permanent factory in 1925.

At the time, the endeavor was considered the most modern ice cream plant in the country. The facility was located on the southwest corner of North Denver Avenue and West Brady Street (today, Reconciliation Way). With large, steel-cased windows that allowed sunlight to enter and illuminate the interior workspace, the building was nicknamed the “Sunlight Factory.”

On May 26, 1926, the Sunlight Factory formally opened to the public with a

96 TulsaPeople JULY 2026

party that included free ice cream, punch, flowers, cigars and an eight-piece orchestra with plenty of floor room for a “big dance,” according to the Tulsa Daily World. The company produced 500,000 gallons of ice cream a year from the location. However, Purity would not remain there very long.

Just over a decade after the building’s completion, Purity sold the facility and the building’s processing equipment to Swift and Company out of Chicago. Swift expanded the footprint of the factory as well as the company’s brand in the southwest through the Tulsa plant.

Ten years later, a large gas explosion in 1947 caused extensive damage to the interior of the building, including the loss of many

windows and damage to the brick structure itself. Two employees were injured in the incident, which occurred at 2:12 a.m.

The blast was so powerful it also affected surrounding businesses. Swift and Company remodeled the building and remained at the location until the mid-1960s.

Eventually long-time neighbor Meadow Gold Dairy Company took control of the building to create a much larger dairy operation located on the block between North Denver and Cheyenne Avenue. In the process, the building became more of an independently operated facility rather than a stand-alone business. It has since been utilized by many dairy companies over the years. tp

MUSEUM OF TULSA HISTORY

BY PATRICK MCNICHOLAS

RESTAURANT WEEK CELEBRATING 20 YEARS

MEALS THAT GIVE BACK SEPTEMBER 18-27

Restaurant Week is more than a good meal. It provides all of us an opportunity to feed children in need. In recognition of Hunger Action Month, everyone is invited to dine at many of Tulsa’s best restaurants where they can enjoy special menus and more, while supporting the Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma’s Food for Kids program.

PR E SE NTI N G S P O NSO RS

B E N E F IT TI N G

For information about participating as a restaurant, scan here:

VENETIAN PRINCESS PIROUETTE