TulsaPeople June 2025 by TulsaPeople

A-LIST!

EDITORS’ PICKS INCLUDING TULY’S TACOS

CHET WILSON

CALEB BRANHAM KRISTIN BELL

TINA BELL

Thank you for trusting us with your healthcare.

We are honored to be recognized on TulsaPeople’s 2025 A-List!

Thank you, TulsaPeople readers, for honoring Saint Francis Health System’s commitment to our communities. We’re grateful to our dedicated employees for embodying our Christ-centered mission every day.

Here are the categories in which we’re recognized:

HOSPITAL

Saint Francis Health System

WELLNESS CLINIC

Saint Francis Health System and Warren Clinic

FITNESS STUDIO Barre/Pilates/Other

Saint Francis Health Zone

FITNESS STUDIO Yoga

Saint Francis Health Zone

HEALTH CLUB/GYM

Saint Francis Health Zone

PHYSICAL THERAPY/SPORTS MEDICINE

Saint Francis Physical Medicine and Rehab

URGENT CARE

Saint Francis Warren Clinic

DERMATOLOGY

Warren Clinic Dermatology

HOME HEALTH CARE

Saint Francis Home Health

HOSPICE

Saint Francis Hospice

that goes Care beyond.

Susan

The

7 CITY DESK

Rotary Club of Tulsa marks 110 years. Starlight Concert Band hits the right note. Nonproﬁ t empowers local dads. Looking back at the “Brookside Tornado.”

LIFESTYLE

Flowering business. Oak Tree Books returns. An architecture-themed adventure. Connie talks June bugs and baseball.

TABLE TALK

New downtown brewery opens. Shrimp tacos for dinner. Cherry Street’s new Italian restaurant. Venezuela in a bite.

THE POWER IS YOURS.

Sign up for PSO’s Power Hours and we’ll pay you for reducing energy use when demand is high this summer. It’s simple. Once enrolled, your Wi-Fi thermostat will be temporarily adjusted only four degrees or less during a peak event (only on weekdays between 2 to 7 p.m.) and typically for only four hours or less. There are never more than 16 peak events each year, and you can opt out of any of those. Participate in all peak events, and you will automatically be entered in a drawing to win one of three $1,000 gift cards!

With

FROM THE FEATURES EDITOR

F: 918-585-9926

Next month marks nine years since my rst feature was published in TulsaPeople. Six years ago I joined the sta full time, and since then I have written numerous features and lots and lots of articles. I hosted a podcast (that changed my life) and captured thousands of images that have appeared in the magazine and at TulsaPeople.com.

I’ve loved coming to work every day since May 2019. It’s been a dream job to work in magazine publishing. e sta quickly became like family, so it was an extremely di cult decision to leave TulsaPeople for a new opportunity in local media.

Working for Publisher Jim Langdon has been an opportunity of a lifetime. He’s an Oklahoma Journalism Hall of Famer whose deep care for our community shows in each monthly edition of TulsaPeople, which will reach its 40th anniversary come November. I hope I can make even a fraction of the positive impact in the years to come that he has made through his work and love for Tulsa.

Editor Anne Brockman is the best boss I’ve ever had, and she’ll be a tough one to beat. Her trust in me and her continual encouragement to pursue what interested me pushed me to keep growing as a writer, photographer and an editor. She’s a true leader in a job where nothing is easy. I wouldn’t be where I am today without her support.

Another colleague, Art Director Georgia Brooks, departs for Washington, D.C., after this issue goes to press. Georgia’s tremen-

dous talent, especially for her collaboration in our December 2024 Cain’s anniversary section, is only matched by her warm spirit. is month is the annual A-LIST issue lled with hundreds of businesses and organizations that thousands of you voted on to say are the best at what they do. As editors, we chimed in on some things we love that somehow missed the cut. Of course that says something about our city that there’s so much to love it can’t possibly all t on the A-LIST.

at’s why TulsaPeople is here — to inform you of all the Tulsans doing amazing things in our city. I’ll forever cherish my time helping share those stories in the pages of the magazine and online for nearly a decade. ank you to those who shared your story with me. Every one of you has inspired me in some way.

Lastly, none of this would be possible without you, the reader. ank you! And now I get to rejoin you and enjoy the high-quality community journalism found in these pages each month. tp

Tim Landes FEATURES EDITOR

NEWS CAUSES PASSIONS

Summer music memories

From classics and Broadway to pop and jazz, nonproﬁ t Starlight Concerts Tulsa has been providing free, family-friendly concerts to Tulsans since 1947. This month the Starlight Concert Band returns June 3 to Guthrie Green, 111 E. Reconciliation Way. The summer concert series continues every Tuesday evening through July 8. Music begins at 7:30 p.m. (with the exception of the June 17 and July 1 performances, which begin at 8 p.m.).

“People come and picnic, and the kids can go play on the splash pad. We’ll have food trucks, too,” Artistic Director Jeremy Parker says. “It’s one of the best free events for families and people who just love music.” tp

SEE P. 16 FOR MORE ON STARLIGHT CONCERTS.

JUNE

COMPILED BY MADISON WALTERS

June 21 BOULDER DASH

Tulsa’s most brutal race is back! Boulder Dash combines the neighborhood races of youth with head-to-head competition, gnarly crashes and crazy obstacles. tulsaboulderdash.com

June 2 WWE

Get ready for WWE Monday Night Raw as it makes its way to BOK Center for a night of wrestling featuring stars like Gunther, Liv Morgan, Damian Priest and more. bokcenter.com

June 6-8 TULSA TOUGH

Whether you’re a professional cyclist, new to rides or a spectator wanting to cheer racers on, Tulsa Tough is a fun experience for all! tulsatough.com

June 6-July 19 “OH, TULSA”

This Living Arts of Tulsa exhibition is a biennial showcase of local artists intended to highlight the unique talents our art community has to offer. livingarts.org/exhibitions

June 7 SPIRIT FLUTE: HEALING THE HEART

This ﬁlm dives into the history of several Oklahoma ﬂute makers/players as they strive to keep this art form alive. Artists and the co-director will attend this Circle Cinema special screening. circlecinema.org

June 13-15 DONNELL RAWLINGS

The actor and comedian is bringing his 2Soon tour to Tulsa’s Loony Bin Comedy Club for a weekend full of shows. tulsa.loonybincomedy.com

June 14 TULSA OILERS FOOTBALL

Beat the heat by attending an indoor football game! The Oilers take on the San Antonio Gunslingers at BOK Center for this evening matchup. bokcenter.com

June 20 NAMASTREET

Join other yogis with a summer solstice evening yoga session outdoors on Boston Avenue. downtowntulsa.com

June 27 EMO NITE

Dust off your black parade jackets and bust out your eyeliner because it’s time for Emo Nite, a party where attendees sing along to their favorite emo/pop-punk songs from the early 2000s. cainsballroom.com

June 27-28 BLOCK PARTY

Get ready for two nights of high-energy live music, delicious food and family fun at the New Orleans Square Block Party in Broken Arrow. facebook.com/neworleanssquarebrokenarrow

A NATION OF ADVENTURE

Native Culture, Natural Beauty

Experience authentic Native art, inspiring stories, rolling hills and sparkling lakes. Spend quality time in Cherokee Nation.

Marquess Dennis

Birthright Living Legacy co-founder on helping to empower dads.

STORY AND PHOTO BY TIM LANDES

There is construction happening inside the o ces of Birthright Living Legacy located inside Impact O ce Center, 3939 S. Harvard Ave. Soon there will be more space for fathers to learn, talk and spend time with their children.

Co-founder Marquess Dennis sits at his desk that has a large stack of applications resting in front of him. e room is packed with supplies and snacks for upcoming group sessions and outings. As of October 2024, he’s the rst and only salaried employee on sta , but a second employee soon will be added to help take on the growing roster of participants.

Dennis took a break from his day’s work to discuss his life’s work that began in 2011 with his quest to become a better father to his kids. Seeing a need to help other men do the same, he started building his nonpro t that at no cost serves dozens of men with more waiting to join.

THE IDEA FOR THE NONPROFIT WAS BORN OUT OF DENNIS BEING A YOUNG MAN WHO HAD CHILDREN OUTSIDE OF WEDLOCK AND WANTING TO LEARN TO BE A BETTER FATHER ... What if I could be able to in uence my child all the time and be able to co-parent well? I thought to myself, “OK, well, where would one do that?” When I started the search to try to look for organizations or things that existed for dads, there was little to nothing that existed at the time.

BIRTHRIGHT LIVING LEGACY LAUNCHED IN HIS AND CO-FOUNDER WIFE CRYSTAL’S LIVING ROOM IN APRIL 2020. HE’S OFTEN ASKED WHAT THE NAME MEANS ... In the olden days the birthright, that was your name. at was the inheritance that you were going to receive, which was your birthright. e “Living Legacy” is to remind you, you don’t have to be dead in order to pass that on. What you want to do is focus on how you can equip your children to have what it takes to be a value to society while you’re still here.

THE POPULARITY OF THE PROGRAM FORCED THE NONPROFIT TO MOVE FROM THE DENNIS HOUSEHOLD AND INTO THE IMPACT OFFICE CENTER, WHERE UP TO 30 MEN GATHER ON THE SECOND AND FOURTH THURSDAYS AT 8 P.M. FOR FATHERHOOD MEETINGS. THESE ARE DADS, GRANDPAS, UNCLES, COACHES, FAITH LEADERS AND MORE WHO SERVE AS FATHER FIGURES. AFTER A COUPLE OF HOURS, THE GROUP SESSION ENDS. DENNIS OFTEN STAYS TILL AFTER 1 A.M. DOING ONE-ON-ONE CONVERSATIONS WITH PARTICIPANTS. THERE ARE ALSO PARK CRAWLS AND FATHERHOOD OUTINGS ... Our main mission is to make sure we equip, educate and engage fathers to know they can condently step into their role as fathers, and then, if they don’t know something, that there’s a safe place where they can go to vent frustrations or ask questions and have a community of dads where they can actually talk about these things. We’re looking to be able to expand those, but again, I’m just one person, so I can only do so much right now. Once we get this new space nished, we’ll be able to explore those options.

DADS COME TO DENNIS FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE WITH VARIOUS PROBLEMS, AND HE SAYS HIS GOAL IS THE SAME FOR EVERYONE HE WORKS WITH ... When you’re speaking to dads you have to understand you’re not just talking to the seed, you’re talking to the orchard. is is an opportunity for me to be vulnerable, and I teach them. e di erence between transparency and vulnerability is transparency is me telling you what I want you to know; vulnerability is me telling you what I don’t want you to know. I lead with vulnerability by helping them to understand this is a safe place for you to be able to talk about what is actually going on in fatherhood for you right now.

ON JUNE 13, THREE DADS WILL BE AWARDED AS FATHERS OF THE YEAR AT AN ANNUAL CELEBRATION OVERSEEN BY CRYSTAL. THESE FATHERS DON’T ACTUALLY HAVE TO BE A PART OF THE PROGRAM ... It is a way for us to experience what it looks like to celebrate fatherhood. Sometimes people are like, “I wish I could do more for my husband;” “I wish I could do more for my brother, who’s been a great dad.” Or “I want to celebrate my dad, and they’ve never gotten the opportunity.” ey’ve only just bought him a tie. (Dads) are voted on by their family and their friends. We give them $1,000 plus whatever gifts and prizes that we can get from the partners in the community. It’s our way of giving back and saying these dads matter. tp

A century of service over self

Tulsa Rotarians give back to the local community while making a di erence on a global scale.

STORIES BY MARNIE FERNANDEZ

It would be di cult to nd a local who hasn’t heard of or been impacted in some way by the Rotary Club. For the past 110 years Rotary Club of Tulsa has become ubiquitous within the community as a pillar of philanthropy, volunteerism and civic a airs.

“ ere is something awe-inspiring about being a part of an organization that has such strong history of service to the community, while at the same time being connected globally with so many other Rotary Clubs,” says Daniel Gomez, current Rotary Club of Tulsa president.

Rotary Club of Tulsa was founded on April 1, 1915, by a group of business leaders during the early days of the oil boom. Tulsa Boys’ Home, Tulsa Area United Way and Big Brothers Big Sisters are results of some of the club’s rst projects.

Comprised of community and business leaders, Rotary Club of Tulsa is one of the largest clubs in the country with over 250 members. It meets every Wednesday at noon at First Methodist Church, 1115 S. Boulder Ave., where meetings are steeped in decades of traditions. e speaker roster is an impres-

sive list ranging from politicians, authors, sports gures, business leaders and thought leaders from the local and national level.

“‘Service Above Self’ is what we are all about,” says Carl Vincent, incoming president and longtime Rotarian. “ e humanitarian spirit of our members is what makes our club so special. We have several long-term causes that we support on a local level, but we also join with Rotarians from around the globe to work on international projects.”

Over the years the club has volunteered countless hours and distributed more than $6 million in grants and donations to nonpro ts through its foundation. It also has a long-standing partnership with Celia Clinton Elementary School, providing the teachers, students and sta with school supplies, clothing, food and nancial support.

According to Vincent, the club is continually growing its membership.

“If you are looking for a professional organization based on high ethical standards and an interest in local civic a airs, then Rotary is the place for you.”

Visit tulsarotary.com for more information. tp

MEET AND GREET

Reggie Ivey

KNOWN AS: Executive director of Northside Neighbors since January. He previously spent 29 years at Tulsa Health Department where he rose in the ranks from health education specialist to associate executive director. The transition to Northside Neighbors — which is currently focused on the Hawthorne and Whitman neighborhoods — allowed him to return to north Tulsa to do work that aligned with his core values by bringing meaningful resources and support to the very community that raised him.

ON ADDRESSING AFFORDABLE HOUSING AND SCHOOL PRIORITIES: Mixedincome housing strategies that include both homeownership opportunities and high-quality rentals for individuals and families across a wide range of incomes will make a meaningful impact in north Tulsa. There are developments in the works to bring this mix to the area, including the Envision Comanche project — a $190 million, multi-year investment focused on transforming a section of the 36th Street North corridor into a vibrant, mixed-use, mixed-income community.

On the education front, Northside Neighbors is launching a GED program in partnership with Madison Strategies Group and the Tulsa Dream Center. The GED program aims to have 75 graduates by the end of the year who will be connected with Madison Strategies and other workforce development programs to support their continued education and/or career advancement. tp

Longtime Rotarian and incoming president Carl Vincent, standing, talks with Rotarian Shohreh Gardner and visitor Heather Layman at a recent Rotary Club of Tulsa meeting.

Breathing room

The Spring’s new transitional living program provides opportunity for those a ected by violence and abuse to start again.

BY LAURA DENNIS

In 2023 the Oklahoma Domestic Violence Fatality Review Board reported more domestic violence homicides than any year on record. In 2024 Oklahoma led the nation with the highest rates of violence and domestic abuse cases against women, according to data from the World Population Review

Leslie Clingenpeel, CEO of the faithbased shelter e Spring, believes these alarming statistics demonstrate a deeply rooted problem. “A lack of long-term housing options and support resources make it challenging for victims to remove themselves and their children from dangerous living situations,” she says. Being Oklahoma’s only faith-based provider certi ed by the state attorney general’s o ce, e Spring is dedicated to supporting individuals and their children who have experienced domestic and sexual violence, stalking and human tra cking.

From its inception in 1980, t he organization has provided an emergency shelter, crisis care, counseling and a 24/7 victim services hotline. More recently, e Spring has started a new transitional living program on a property called e Ridge in an e ort to empower survivors to help them achieve full independence.

“We have identi ed a major gap in long-term housing options for survivors as they are leaving our shelter and stepping into their next season of life,” says Amber Ponder, e Spring’s transitional living manager. “With the existing housing crisis (as) an added challenge, the transitional living program at e Ridge will allow safe, longer-term housing options in hopes of reducing recidivism and assisting survivors in gaining true stability and independence.”

To expand its impact in Tulsa e Spring initiated a two-year capital campaign to raise $8 million in funding,

which will provide an additional 20 crisis beds at e Spring ’s emergency crisis shelter and further develop long-term housing, including e Ridge property. Now four months in, nearly half of the goal has been met.

“We couldn’t do it without the contributions from our very generous supporters,” Clingenpeel says. Outside of donations, volunteering and staying educated on relevant topics are other ways Tulsans can help the cause. Ponder adds, “Sharing personal experiences can also be a powerful way to show support and raise awareness.”

L ocated in Sand Springs, e Ridge is a 3-acre plot and consists of 12 cabins with a maximum capacity of 48 individuals. e Spring purchased the property at the end of 2024 but it was in need of some critical improvements. Necessities such as smoke alarms, fencing and security upgrades were added, and Ponder says over the past few months cabins have undergone renovations and cosmetic upgrades to provide a safe and healing living space for its residents, some of whom will arrive this year.

Depending on the individual, the program will vary from 12-18 months and will focus on personal and professional development, independent living skills, developing healthy connections and support systems, and building a healthy sense of self by utilizing focused skill building, support groups and intentional community partnerships. “ e transitional living program at e Ridge (will o er) our sta more time with each survivor to holistically care for and develop them,” Ponder says.

While e Spring’s emergency shelter provides advocacy and a safe escape for those who are eeing these dangerous and life-threatening situations, Ponder says the transitional living program is another step toward safe living and freedom for survivors. It will allow additional time to heal, learn and gain a solid foundation that is needed to live independently and free of abuse.

“Our communities, from right here in Tulsa and the surrounding areas, statewide and across the country are experiencing violence and abuse now more than ever,” she says. “We are committed to seeing our survivors transform so they can live empowered, free and whole, and we believe the transitional living program will give our survivors dignity and a real chance to breathe and heal, while rebuilding their lives.” tp

CEO Leslie Clingenpeel and Transitional Living Manager Amber Ponder at the site of The Spring’s new transitional living property, The Ridge. Once fully open it will accommodate 48 individuals.

MAKE SUMMER COUNT

MUSIC NOTES

“We

Symphonic anniversary

Big things lay ahead for Tulsa Symphony Orchestra’s

20th anniversary.

STORIES BY JULIE WENGER WATSON

Tulsa Symphony Orchestra celebrates its 20th season this fall, but before they kick things o in September you can catch them in concert this month with internationally acclaimed Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli at BOK Center on June 15.

“We’ve been waiting for Bocelli to come to Tulsa,” says TSO Executive Director Ron Predl. “ e Bocelli organization selected us to be their orchestra in Tulsa, and that’s a real compliment and a real honor. We’re super excited about it.”

Predl, who spent 40 years on faculty at e University of Tulsa’s School of Music, was named TSO’s rst executive director in 2008. He retired after 11 years, only to return in 2023. According to Predl, unlike most orchestras in the U.S., TSO uses a group decision-making process. Musicians, board members and sta are very involved in most aspects of the organization, and the executive director is more of a facilitator, making sure all of the pieces are working well together.

Violinist Ronnamarie Jensen, TSO’s associate concertmaster and personnel manager, has been with TSO from the start. She believes this unique organizational style is e ective.

“Hearing all perspectives is helpful when making decisions,” she says. “It’s important to the musicians in particular, because we feel more valued when we have a voice in how the organization moves forward — from our strategic planning for the future to our artistic decisions and programming of concerts. It helps us to be more invested in our jobs as musicians.”

In addition, TSO is unusual because it doesn’t have a resident artistic director or conductor, Predl says. Instead, TSO uses a series of guest conductors, chosen by an artistic committee made up of volunteer musicians, sta and board members who meet weekly to design and select the programming.

Although Predl is excited about the entire season, he’s particularly looking forward to the 20th Anniversary Celebration concert at Tulsa’s Performing Arts Center on Oct. 4, which features Shostakovich ’s “Festive” Overture, the rst overture the orchestra performed at its initial concert.

“Not only will we have this legendary American pianist Emanuel Ax , but we also will have this amazing conductor, Lina Gonzalez-Granados, with us for the rst time,” he says.

Visit tulsasymphony.org to learn more. tp

Sunset serenade

“Our mission is to bring band music to as many people as possible in the Tulsa area,” says Jeremy Parker, artistic director for Starlight Concerts Tulsa.

Founded in 1947, the nonproﬁ t has been presenting free, family-friendly shows in a variety of genres for close to 80 years. There are two performing ensembles for the organization: The Starlight Concert Band, which is conducted by Parker and made up of approximately 50 brass, woodwind and percussion musicians; and the Starlight Jazz Orchestra, a traditional jazz band made up of saxophone, trombone, trumpets and a rhythm section. The 2025 season begins June 3 and includes themed performances like “Once Upon a Time” and “The Great Outdoors,” as well as some jazz-ﬁlled evenings with Starlight Jazz Director Rich Fisher conducting the Starlight Jazz Orchestra.

Starlight musicians include members of Tulsa Symphony Orchestra, Signature Symphony and Bartlesville Symphony, as well as some freelance musicians.

“It’s an amazing group of very talented musicians,” Parker says.

He has been with Starlight for over two decades. Parker started with “cartage” (transporting equipment) before joining the trombone section and eventually becoming the artistic director/conductor, a position he’s held for the past four years.

Parker enjoys working with so many skilled musicians, and he’s thrilled with the crowds who come to hear them.

“It’s wonderful to know that all these people come to Guthrie Green to enjoy band music. It’s really great.”

Visit startlightconcerts.org for the full schedule. tp

couldn’t be more excited and thrilled to share this milestone 2025-2026 20th anniversary season with all of greater Tulsa,” says Ron Predl, executive director of Tulsa Symphony Orchestra.

A 2024 Starlight Concert performance

Summer session

Jazz Band camp returns for third summer.

BY JULIE WENGER WATSON

As a young musician trombonist Greg Fallis attended Jazz at the River, a music summer camp in Verdigris. According to Fallis, the program, created by longtime Verdigris High School jazz band director Euell Hanna , had a profound impact.

“It totally changed my life,” says Fallis, who’s now a middle school band teacher and the founder of King Cabbage Brass Band. is summer Fallis hopes to inspire a new generation of musicians with Brass in the Ballpark, a music camp Fallis cofounded with music promoter Larry White is is the third season for the camp, which runs July 14-27. It’s open to band students in grades 7-12.

Campers learn music fundamentals along with traditional and reimagined New Orleans-style brass band pieces. ey also get a dose of American music history through tours of local music attractions like Woody Guthrie Center, Cain’s Ballroom, Bob Dylan Center and e Church Studio. Camp culminates with public performances at ONEOK Field during the July 25 and 27 Tulsa Drillers games.

For 15-year-old trombonist Auggie Sinnett, those performances are his favorite part of the experience.

“I love to solo and play at Drillers

stadium. e energy is awesome, and I can’t wait to do it again,” says Auggie, who is a returning camper this year with younger brother James James says he likes participating in camp with his brother; last summer the two had dueling trombone solos. He’s also a fan of the music itself.

“I really like the New Orleans jazz-style and how much energy there is when we play it,” he says. “Greg picks some really fun songs that are fun to play and that the crowd loves.”

Choosing the right music is important to Fallis, who wants to educate and engage his students, while creating a memorable experience.

“It’s New Orleans brass band music, like Rebirth or Lil’ Rascals or Dirty Dozen,” he says. “It’s music that is pretty fun and easy to grasp.”

For Fallis, who serves as an instructor with KCBB bandmates, the camp is a chance to nurture a new generation of musicians and fans.

“ e primary reason we’re doing it is to inspire young horn players,” he says. “ ese experiences, although short lived, can have a lasting impact. We want to see young players from the Tulsa area ourish.”

More at kingcabbagecamps.org. tp

THE SUMMER OF CLIFFDIVER

Playing coast to coast and everywhere in between, Tulsa’s own Cliffdiver announced this summer they also will be playing two legacy rock festivals — Vans Warped Tour and Riot Fest.

After a hiatus since 2019, Warped Tour is returning for a 30th anniversary tour, inviting Cliffdiver along for the dates in Washington, D.C., and Long Beach, California. “Warped Tour, for all of us, has been the dream since we set out as a band,” co-lead singer Briana Wright says.

But the band’s summer festival announcements didn’t stop there. Co-lead singer Joey Duffy took to Instagram to announce Cliffdiver’s involvement with Riot Fest. “One of my life goals has been to play with Blink-182 and now it’s happening this year!” Duffy’s post stated. Cliffdiver joins the likes of Green Day, Weezer, Alkaline Trio, the Beach Boys and so many more for the festival’s 20th birthday celebration. Incidentally, there’s a strong link between the Chicago festival and Tulsa this year as the lineup also includes Hanson, Jack White and “Weird Al” Yankovic — whose “UHF” ﬁlm was shot in Tulsa in 1988.

Visit cliffdiverok.com for more tour dates. — MADISON WALTERS

Briana Wright

James Sinnett, right, performs with fellow campers at Brass in the Ballpark 2024.

Cheers for 41 years

Mark your calendars for the 41st annual OKM Music Festival, set to take place May 30-June 8, 2025, in Bartlesville and Tulsa.

Known for its captivating talent and variety, this year’s festival promises to be an unforgettable experience for music lovers of all ages.

The festival will kick off May 30-June 8 with the Especially for Kids Festival, which is designed to inspire creativity and cultivate a love for music among younger audiences. The Especially for Kids Festival will feature an array of activities, including live music concerts, engaging puppet shows and immersive art experiences. Each activity is designed to entertain and provide valuable educational experiences, allowing children to explore the worlds of music and art in a vibrant and interactive setting.

As the Main Festival commences, the festivities will begin on June 6 at Woolaroc. Guests can expect to see renowned Oklahoma saxophonist Grady Nichols, followed by the Manhattan Chamber Players who will present a selection of classical masterpieces that reflect their virtuosity and passion for music. On June 7 the celebration will shift to Tulsa at the Cascia Hall Performing Arts Center

where the Tulsa Honors Baroque Youth Orchestra will perform before internationally renowned pianist Natasha Paremski will mesmerize the audience. The grand finale of the festival will take place on June 8 at The Refinery in Bartlesville. The internationally acclaimed Escher Quartet will perform their exquisite harmonies and intricate arrangements for the audience. Also this year, the festival will pay tribute to Edvard Grieg, one of Norway’s most celebrated composers. Known for his ability to integrate the rich traditions of Norwegian folk music into his works, Grieg’s compositions reflect the breathtaking landscapes and cultural heritage of his homeland. Festival-goers can expect to hear beloved pieces, such as the “Piano Concerto in A Minor” and “Peer Gynt Suites.” In addition to the main stage events, a series of showcase performances will take place throughout the festival, promising to set a warm and welcoming tone. From the Bartlesville Ringers to the Elvis tribute by Brent Gidden, attendees will relish the vibrant musical tapestry woven throughout the festival.

Visit OKMMUSIC.ORG or call 918-336-9900 for ticket information.

Grady Nichols

Manhattan Chamber Players

Escher Quartet

Natasha Paremski

Life in miniature

Sarah Bowen has made a big impression with her tiny creations. For the past 10 years she has been the artist behind Tiny Things by Bowen, known for her miniature items made from oven-baked clay.

She’s made everything from mini sushi rolls and mufﬁns to gnomes, otters and terrariums. “All kids love tiny things. Many grow out of that. Those who don’t are my people,” says Bowen, whose work will be the focus of a retrospective exhibition June 7-28 at Positive Space Tulsa, 1324 E. Third St.

Bowen has asked a few of her longtime collectors to showcase some of their favorite pieces and collections for the show. One of those collections belongs to sisters Ellen and Laura Weatherholt whose combined assortment of 350plus magnets covers their refrigerator. Around 150 of those will be included in the exhibition. An entrepreneur herself, Ellen says “to have watched (Bowen) journey from having a pretty traditional full-time job and just doing markets as a weekend gig to now creating her own company and career out of her beautiful artistry is just freaking incredible.”

Both sisters say Bowen’s hyper-realism is what they love most about her art. “She made a Pop-Tart that is 1-by-1.5 inches and it looks like it came out of the toaster,” Ellen says. “It’s perfect.”

Bowen has been instructing others in tiny art since 2017. “I consider teaching part of my art practice,” she says. This month at her exhibition Bowen will host a Father’s Day drop-in workshop on June 15, as well as a pet portrait class on June 18 (advanced tickets are required). She’ll also host Tiny Triage, where you can bring any tiny Bowen creation that may have broken and she will try and ﬁ x it while you experience the gallery. Visit tinythingsbybowen.com for more event information. —

ANNE BROCKMAN

Sarah Bowen, the artist behind Tiny Things by Bowen, has been working on 40 specialedition gnomes that will be part of her retrospective exhibit at Positive Space Tulsa.

radio as the National Weather Service was updating storm warnings.

“I remember it vividly,” Piotrowski says.

Little did he know that storm would kickstart his career as a world-wide storm chaser.

“I had a ruler, a pencil and a Rand McNally map,” Piotrowski says. “Back then a bell would chime over the radio from NWS with updates on warnings or con rmed tornadoes.”

So, Piotrowski listened as each bell went o and made a mark on his map from the coordinates stated by the radio announcer. en he waited a bit longer to hear where the next con rmation was to make another dot.

ose pencil marks led to Piotrowski knowing, even as a teenage boy, that something big was going to happen.

“I remember trying to explain to my mom that a tornado was coming,” Piotrowski says. “But she would tell me to hush and head outside and play — that it was a beautiful day!”

But by the evening his mapping skills were right, and Piotrowski and his mother could see the tornado across town.

“My mother yelled at me to get in the car. We were headed to the church basement to shelter down,” Piotrowski says. “I laugh at this now, but it was right then that

GOLDEN TICKET

she looked at me in the eyes and said, ‘We will talk about your special gift later — get moving!’”

Of course, that gift turned out to be a 50-year career of storm chasing around the world.

While there were over 20 tornadoes that night, the Brookside tornado alone was categorized as an F3 tornado with wind speeds estimated between 158-206 mph.

ere were two fatalities, over 70 people injured and more than $25 million in damage from the storm.

“By the time I got there, the storm had passed,” Stowell says. “So, our job at that point was to go from door to door and check on the residents of the houses that had been badly damaged.”

Stowell was on the scene for one of the fatalities.

“It was a one-story home that had been modi ed with a screen porch and a den,” Stowell says. “I just remember showing up and the man was still in his recliner. A tree had fallen on him, and there was nothing we could do at that point.”

e report from the National Centers for Environmental Information Storm Data website stated “the heavy rains and tornadoes combined to produce the worst natural disaster in Tulsa’s history” at that time. tp

COVERS REVISITED

When rock radio station 97.5-FM KMOD partnered with Cain’s Ballroom to celebrate the venue’s 2024 centennial with a giveaway, local attorney Harvey Grauberger was the lucky caller, ultimately winning two tickets to 100 shows.

“Growing up in Tulsa, I have listened to KMOD as long as I can remember,” Grauberger says. “I turn my radio on during the 6 a.m. hour and it will be on until late in the evening. Recently, it paid off spectacularly.”

The devoted music fan rose to the challenge, attending 112 consecutive concerts between July 2024 and April 2025. From the Pretenders to the Red NOT Chili Peppers, he did it all, even managing a brief appearance on stage with Rage Against the Machine’s Tom Morello

Cain’s co-owner Hunter Rodgers was suitably impressed.

“I was thrilled to see the most deserving guy win,” Rodgers says. “Nobody else would have done what he did, and it will never be done again! I mean, he attended more than anyone on the staff including our production manager, Brad Harris .”

Tuck Curren , owner of Biga, has kept himself busy in the years since his dish — pappardelle with ragu Bolognese — graced the February 2011 cover of TulsaPeople as one of our 25 signature dishes of Tulsa. These past 14 years have seen a couple of renovation projects completed at the restaurant, like updates to the entryway and bathrooms. Opened in 2000, Biga celebrates its milestone 25th anniversary this year.

In 2018, Curren says he was asked by the George Kaiser Family Foundation if he was interested in opening a restaurant that fuses together as a music venue. Jumping at the opportunity, Curren created Duet. With modern American eats, the Tulsa Arts District restaurant also hosts live music at 108 N. Detroit Ave.

Duet has become a downtown favorite on Friday nights, especially on Drillers’ gamedays at ONEOK Field and First Friday Art Crawls just a hop, skip and a jump away from Guthrie Green.

As for Biga’s longevity and the success of Duet, Curren attributes “All the wonderful customers and employees we have met over 25 years” for making this dream come true. It keeps Kate (Curren , his wife) and my creativity going at all times. — MADISON WALTERS

HISTORICALLY SPEAKING

Setting the stage

Attorney Charles Norman was instrumental in the creation of the Tulsa Performing Arts Center in 1977.

BY MICHAEL OVERALL

Walking around downtown one day in the early 1970s, Charles Norman and several other Tulsa o cials went looking for a place to open a new performing arts center, looking at various empty lots and vacant buildings. ey seemed to nd plenty of options, with suburban development pulling retailers away from downtown and “urban renewal” projects tearing down one aging landmark after another.

Norman’s group initially settled on the old Akdar eater (sometimes called Akdar Shrine eater) on the northeast corner of Fourth Street and Denver Avenue. Built for the Shriners in 1925, the building had been used as a dance hall since the 1950s, and

Norman hoped it could be renovated and repurposed into a PAC on Tulsa’s limited budget.

e youngest city attorney in Tulsa history when he was appointed in 1959, Norman was only in his 30s as he guided downtown development through the tumultuous decade of the 1960s. His o ce drafted plans for public housing and revitalization, while overseeing construction of the Arvest Convention Center, old City Hall and Central Library.

Born in Quanah, Texas, in 1930, Norman earned a law degree from the University of Oklahoma in 1953, then moved to Tulsa, where he later co-founded the rm Norman Wohlgemuth Chandler and Dowdell.

When Tulsa decided to replace the outdated Municipal eater with a modern PAC, Norman seemed the natural choice to spearhead the e ort. His team soon gave up on the idea of rehabilitating the old Akdar building, determining the site required too many compromises and would fail to meet the city’s long-term needs. e historic Akdar eater, with its distinctive oniondomed minarets, was demolished in 1973.

A solution for the future PAC came from Joe Williams, president of Williams Cos. at the time, who was part of the group that had walked around downtown with Norman to nd a site for the project. Williams o ered to make it part of the new Williams Center, a giant urban renewal e ort that covered nine square blocks and included the 52-story BOK Tower.

Rampant in ation, however, threatened to water down the PAC at the Williams location, on the northwest corner of ird Street and Cincinnati Avenue. Voters approved a $7 million bond issue in August 1973, which matched $7 million in private donations. But construction costs ran $3 million over budget.

Norman pushed aside suggestions to save money by making design changes, pointing out that cost-cutting would eliminate features that had been promised to voters.

e city raised more funds while Norman’s committee negotiated a xed-fee contract with the construction company, allowing the facility to open in March 1977 with $1 million left over to help start the PAC Trust.

e PAC, where the Charles E. Norman eatre is named in his honor, now hosts more than 900 events a year, attracting more than 300,000 visitors and generating an estimated $60 million in economic impact, according to the Tulsa City Council. e building has not undergone a major overhaul since it opened nearly 50 years ago, leaving it woefully out of date compared to similar facilities in other cities, according to PAC o cials.

In April Tulsa o cials announced a $79.7 million plan for major updates and improvements to the existing facility, plus a $46.6 million expansion on the west side of the building to add a full-service restaurant, a bar, a co ee shop and other amenities. Longer-term plans include building a new 1,400-seat theater on a parking lot east of the current PAC and connecting it via a glass skybridge.

ough Norman died Jan. 22, 2009, at age 78, he would no doubt be excited about the future of the landmark he helped create. tp

In the 1970s Charles Norman spearheaded the creation of the Tulsa Performing Arts Center. In April Tulsa officials announced a $79.7 million plan for major improvements to the existing facility and a $46.6 million expansion.

Hosted on April 18 at the Arvest Convention Center, the GO GIRL GALA is Girl Scouts of Eastern Oklahoma’s signature event that featured a dinner, live entertainment, auction and moving stories shared by local Girl Scouts, offering guests a powerful look at how Girl Scouting shapes lives and futures. The evening also honored Dr. Kayse Shrum, a trailblazer whose groundbreaking work in health care and education has improved the lives of those in the state. Pictured are Girl Scouts Morgan, Khloe, Emmalyn and Virginia with auctioneer Erin Williams as the bidding starts.

Approximately 650 guests gathered on April 8 for the Salvation Army’s WILLIAM BOOTH SOCIETY GALA at Arvest Convention Center to celebrate the organization’s 32 years of accomplishments. This year’s special guest speaker was actor Dennis Quaid. At the event, Mitch Adwon, second from left, received the prestigious Salvation Army “Others” award. He is photographed with Lt. Col. Dean Hinson, Maj. Carlyle Gargis and Maj. Charlotte Gargis.

STREET PARTY welcomed 250 guests to support Tulsa’s award-winning alternative high school, Street School. Hosted at the Arvest Convention Center, this fun-filled evening was full of art, live music, food, drinks and a whole lot of community spirit! The charitable event was co-chaired by Heather and Jason Duncan, pictured, and included a live auction, trip raffle, wine and whiskey raffle and silent auction featuring art created by Street School students. Street Party raised nearly $500,000 to support the school’s endeavor of helping at-risk youth stay in school.

Raise the Woof

COMPILED BY MADISON WALTERS

Beneﬁts Oklahoma Pet Collective Society. okpetcollective.org

Margarita-Ville

Beneﬁts Sand Springs Community Services. sscsok.org

6-8

OKM Music Festival

Beneﬁts OKM Music. okmmusic.org

Aquarium Run

Beneﬁts Oklahoma Aquarium. okaquarium.org

7-8

Garden Tour

Beneﬁts Tulsa Master Gardeners. tulsamastergardeners.org

Celebrate LIFE

Beneﬁts LIFE Senior Services. lifeseniorservices.org

Zoo Nights

Beneﬁts Tulsa Zoo. tulsazoo.org

Equality Gala

Beneﬁts Oklahomans for Equality. okeq.org

Every Moment Counts

Beneﬁts Clarehouse. clarehouse.org

Poppin’ Bottles

Beneﬁts Emergency Infant Services. eistulsa.org

14-22

Parade of Homes

Beneﬁts Home Builders Association of Greater Tulsa. tulsaparadeofhomes.com

Charity Golf Tournament

Beneﬁts Owasso Fireﬁghters’ Charitable Foundation. owassofcf.org

Tom Boyd Memorial Golf Tournament

Beneﬁts the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. tulsa.cff.org

Bearwood Classic Golf Tournament

Beneﬁts Folds of Honor. facebook.com/bearwoodconcepts

Pickleball for a Purpose

Beneﬁts The Community Project. communityproject.city

Bunco for a Cause

Beneﬁts Ward-Wiseman Animal Haven and Bailey Education Foundation. baileyeducationfoundation.com

Noel Day

Beneﬁts Tulsa Christmas Parade. tulsachristmasparade.org/noel

Golf Tournament

Beneﬁts Bailey Education Foundation. baileyeducationfoundation.com

27-29

Crush Cancer Co-Ed Softball Tournament

Beneﬁts Hydrants of Hope. tulsametrowomenonﬁre.org/ hydrants-of-hope

St. Jude Dream Home Giveaway

Beneﬁts St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. stjude.org

Susan Savage

The CEO of Morton Comprehensive Health Services and former mayor reflects on her work and Tulsa memories

BY MICHAEL OVERALL

Susan Savage’s grandmother was already a grown and married woman when the 19th Amendment gave her the right to vote, but she lived to see her granddaughter elected as Tulsa’s rst female mayor.

Serving from 1992-2002, Savage oversaw more than $1 billion in infrastructure investments for streets, parks, water, airport development and cultural facilities.

“ e privilege of serving the citizens of Tulsa was demanding work but enormously gratifying and an amazing opportunity,” Savage says. “My core sta in the mayor’s o ce stayed with me through the nearly 10 years I served. We have remained friends, allies and always connected.”

After leaving the mayor’s o ce, Savage served as the Oklahoma secretary of state from 2003-2011, and she has been CEO of Morton Comprehensive Health Services since 2016.

WHERE DID YOU GO TO SCHOOL? Savage’s graduating class at Tulsa’s Edison High School had more than 700 students in 1970. She then went to Arcadia University, a small liberal arts school outside of Philadelphia.

“I was fortunate to have an opportunity to live and study in a major metropolitan area during a period of great social change,” Savage says. “Arcadia had a small student body and a strong study abroad program that enabled me to study internationally; and I was interested in criminal justice, the social structure of communities and economics.”

WHAT AGE DO YOU FEEL RIGHT NOW? Savage’s early memories include family birthdays being a big deal.

“It is a tradition I carried with me while raising my children and now continue celebrating with my grandchildren,” Savage, 73, says. “I marvel that I am in my 70s, in good health, with challenging and interesting work, and that my life is full of so many diverse people and opportunities. Watching my adult children’s accomplishments and participating in the lives of my grandchildren make me grateful every day for having them in my life.”

HOW WOULD YOUR FRIENDS DESCRIBE YOU?

“Determined, ercely loyal, outspoken, smart, kind and funny; a lover and advocate for all creatures and one who adopts animals who need homes. My dearest friends are those who have taught me the lessons of friendship and with whom I remain connected regardless of length of friendship or distance from one another.”

WHAT WOULD PEOPLE BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU? Savage has an identical twin sister, Sarah, born ve minutes after her — the third and fourth children of six.

“My twin sister and I are very close, as are our children and their children,” Savage says. “Growing up in a large, noisy and sometimes chaotic household was a great foundation for developing independence, resourcefulness and resilience.”

IF YOU COULD WITNESS ANY EVENT OF THE PAST, PRESENT OR FUTURE, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

“It is tough to narrow this question into a single event,” Savage says. “As a baby boomer, I lived through enormous social and economic changes that in uenced my thinking on issues of civic engagement, equal justice and opportunity, man’s inhumanity to man and the basic protections a orded to us in our country.”

Savage has long admired Eleanor Roosevelt, who was rst lady during most of the Great Depression and World War II. After President Franklin Roosevelt ’s death in 1945, Eleanor continued her political in uence as a U.S. delegate to the United Nations, where she helped draft the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948.

“I would have relished the chance to hear the discussions she had with government and world leaders,” Savage says, “as she championed the rights of women and minorities, immigrants, refugees and those whose voices needed to be heard. Her initiatives, words and actions resonate today as these principles are being challenged.”

WHAT HAS BEEN ONE OF THE WORST TIMES IN YOUR LIFE AND HOW DID YOU PULL THROUGH IT?

“ ere are two perspectives I o er in response to this question,” Savage says. “As a local and state leader, the natural and man-made disasters that occurred during my tenure required me to think, plan and respond beyond personal considerations.

“ e safety of my family was always paramount, but the safety and well-being of those directly a ected, our rst responders, and the recovery from life-changing events have stayed with me through my life. Government leaders have a moral obligation to use their positions to assist those in need and to improve the lives of all.

“On a personal level, the loss of siblings and dear friends who died too soon reminds me daily to be more appreciative of the time I have with those I love.”

WHAT CONCERNS YOU TODAY? “ e better question may be what does not concern me today,” Savage says. “From the erosion of our democracy and lack of respect for our institutions and laws, to a planet that is burning up, to ideologically-driven government leaders who use their positions for individual interests, my concern for the futures of my grandchildren and all children is deep and pervasive.”

WHAT IS A FAVORITE TULSA MEMORY? During high school, Savage and her twin sister had jobs at Skilly’s Dance Studio, owned by Skilly Forsman, who expected them to work most nights while maintaining their grades and continuously training to improve their own dancing skills.

“Skilly was an entrepreneur and visionary,” Savage says, “who taught thousands of kids how to dance along with social skills that were bene cial for all situations.”

WHAT CLOSED OR DEMOLISHED PLACE IN TULSA DO YOU MISS MOST? “It is nostalgic to remember movie theaters in downtown Tulsa — the Orpheum and the Rialto,” Savage says. “ e beautiful architecture of those buildings and the vibrancy of the central business district were part of my childhood and youth.”

WHAT HAVE BEEN THE MOST SIGNIFICANT CHANGES YOU’VE EXPERIENCED IN TULSA?

Demographic shifts, economic challenges and urban sprawl have impacted every aspect of life in Tulsa, Savage says. Nonetheless, the City has reclaimed older and blighted neighborhoods, preserved open spaces and recognized that in ll development should be compatible with existing uses.

“A community’s challenges change over time,” Savage says, “but how they are addressed through partnerships and investment re ects a commitment to a shared responsibility for Tulsa’s health and well-being. tp

Susan Savage has appeared on four TulsaPeople covers, which is second to Kathy Taylor’s six apperances.

TulsaPeople is proud to present the 2025 A-LIST Readers’ Choice Awards. As voted by readers via TulsaPeople.com, 651 businesses are recognized in 134 categories. These are the best in Tulsa when it comes to food, fun, service providers and more — all chosen by TulsaPeople readers. Five winners were named in each category, except when results commanded more or less.

TulsaPeople editors wanted to get in on the action, too, and have added their favorites.

Be sure to visit TulsaPeople.com/a-list year-round to find a local business the next time you are in need — whether it be for dental services, home design recommendations or even just a little sweet treat. BY STAFF

ASIAN

In the Raw

KEO

Mandarin Taste

Mr. Kim’s

Roka

BAKERY

Merritt’s Bakery

Country Bird Bakery

Pancho Anaya

Ludger’s Bavarian Cakery

Antoinette Baking Co.

BAR

Mercury Lounge

Valkyrie

Bird and Bottle

Bishop Quigley

Barons on 1st

BARBECUE

Burn Co. Barbeque

Mac’s Barbecue

Albert G’s Barbecue

RibCrib

Oakhart Barbecue

BREAKFAST

Queenies

Neighborhood Jam

Bramble Breakfast and Bar

The Big Biscuit

Dilly Diner

BREWERY

Cabin Boys Brewery

Nothing’s Left Brewing Co.

Bricktown Brewery

Marshall Brewing Co.

American Solera

BURGER

Ron’s Hamburgers and Chili

Society Burger

Arnold’s Old Fashioned

Hamburgers

Goldie’s Patio Grill

Ruby D’s Burger Joint

CATERING

McNellie’s Group

The Bros. Houligan

RibCrib

Ludger’s Catering

Take 2: A Resonance Cafe

CHEAP EATS

Braum’s

The Bros. Houligan

Coney I-Lander

McNellie’s Burger Night

Tacos Don Francisco

CHICKEN FRIED STEAK

The Bros. Houligan

Nelson’s Buffeteria

Charleston’s Restaurant

The Brook Restaurant and Bar

Cheever’s Cafe

COCKTAIL/ MOCKTAIL LIST

Valkyrie

Bar Serra

Red Door Grille

Sisserou’s

Holè Molè

COFFEE SHOP

Coffee House on Cherry Street

Shades of Brown

Foolish Things Coffee Co.

Pony Coffee

DoubleShot Coffee Co.

DELI/SANDWICHES

Trenchers Delicatessen

Lambrusco’z Deli

Bill and Ruth’s

Doctor Kustom

Felini’s Cookies and Deli

DOUGHNUT SHOP

Daylight Donuts

Big Baby Rolls and Donuts

Livi Lee and Co.

Sugar Llamas

Merritt’s Bakery

FINE DINING

Mahogany Prime Steakhouse

Bull in the Alley

Amelia’s Wood Fired Cuisine

Polo Grill

Barons on 1st

GLUTEN-FREE MENU

Ruby D’s Burger Joint

Chimera

Holé Molé

Coffee House on Cherry Street

NEFF Brewing

ITALIAN

Mondo’s Ristorante Italiano

Ti Amo Ristorante Italiano

Dalesandro’s Italian Cuisine

Gambill’s Pastaria and Grocery

Sapori

JUICE BAR

Inheritance Kitchen and Juicery

Pure Food and Juice

Ediblend Superfood Cafe

Froot Bowls Acai Cafe

LONGTIME FAVORITE

Kilkenny’s Irish Pub

McNellie’s

The Bros. Houligan

RibCrib

Brookside By Day

LUNCH

Queenies

The Bros. Houligan

Doctor Kustom

RibCrib

Ruby D’s Burger Joint

MEDITERRANEAN/ MIDDLE EASTERN/ INDIAN

India Palace

Meddys

Shawkat Mediterranean Grill

Desi Wok

Saffron

MEXICAN

Noche Woodﬁred Grill and Agave Bar

Chimi’s Mexican Food

Casa Tequila

Ricardos

Holè Molè

NEW RESTAURANT

Cheever’s Cafe

Ruby D’s Burger Joint

Barons on 1st

Holè Molè

City Hall Steakhouse

PATIO

Waterfront Grill

Wild Fork

McNellie’s

Society Burger

Cafe Ole

PIZZA — GOURMET

Hideaway Pizza

Andolini’s Pizzeria

Bohemian Woodﬁre Pizza and Homemade Pasta

La Roma Pizza

LoFi Pizza

PIZZA — TAKEOUT/ DELIVERY

Hideaway Pizza

Andolini’s Pizzeria

Empire Slice House

Mazzio’s

Pie Hole Pizzeria

RESTAURANT CURBSIDE/ CARRYOUT

Charleston’s Restaurant

Hideaway Pizza

The Bros. Houligan

RibCrib

Ruby D’s Burger Joint

SEAFOOD

White River Fish Market

Bodean

Red Door Grille

Fish Daddy’s Grill House

Sisserou’s

STEAK

Mahogany Prime Steakhouse

Bull in the Alley

The Spudder Restaurant

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar

The Tavern

SUSHI Yokozuna

In the Raw

Sushi Hana

Sake 2 Me

Pho and Japanese Sushi

TACOS

Tacos 4 Life

918 Maples Cafe and Catering

TXMZ

Tamale Boyz

Holé Molé

WEEKEND BRUNCH

Bramble Breakfast and Bar

Neighborhood Jam

Wild Fork

Nola’s Creole and Cocktails

The Big Biscuit

WINE LIST

Polo Grill

Vintage Wine Bar

Bird and Bottle

Mahogany Prime Steakhouse

Barons on 1st

THANK YOU TULS A

It’s been an exciting first year and we wouldn’t be here without you. Join us for lunch, dinner, or drinks and dine like a baron in the heart of Tulsa’s historic Blue Dome district.

CHICKEN FRIED STEAK LONGTIME FAVORITE LUNCH CATERING

CHEAP EATS CURBSIDE/CARRYOUT

Before the centennial of Route 66 descends on Tulsa — the Capital of Route 66 — next year, revel in the fun and funky retro kitsch of the Meadow Gold District, located near 11th Street and Peoria Avenue. Make a day of it — start o by grabbing breakfast at Wild ower Cafe (we especially love sipping co ee from their thrifted mug collection) before heading next door to explore the eclectic booths of Meadow Gold Mack. Find more gifty Tulsa treasures at Buck Atom’s Cosmic Curios or Decopolis across the street, making sure to complete a sel e trifecta with all three of the area’s roadside “giants” (spoiler alert: there’s another on the way!). Shop for curated home goods at Jenkins and Co., and original art at Joseph Gierek Fine Art. Looking for authentic Native American goods? e family at Southwest Trading Co. has you covered. For lunch refuel with a triple-patty burger slathered in rodeo sauce from Howdy Burger, or a fried chicken tender basket at Red Light Chicken.

DON’T SLEEP ON VINTAGE

FINDS AT POLLY HESTER

Get ready to step back in time with Polly Hester! Whether it’s a Japanese poster of “ e Rocky Horror Picture Show,” a ’70s brown suede fringe Vazquez jacket or even a ’40s green World War II fatigue shirt, this vintage shop is a treasure trove of one-of-a-kind nds.

Located at 1522 S. Harvard Ave., owner Sarah Frick has made Polly Hester the place to go when looking for retro women’s and men’s fashion. e store also has a plethora of books, records, jewelry, bolo ties, belt buckles, scarves, shoes and more. By appointment only, Polly Hester will even purchase vintage items from you if you’re looking to get rid of your old records or accessories. Don’t forget to check out the shop’s Depop and eBay for hundreds of other fashionable designs.

ADULT EDUCATION

Tulsa Community College

Tulsa City-County Library

Tulsa Technology Center

WaterWorks Art Center

Pathways Adult Learning Center

BOWLING

Dust Bowl Lanes and Lounge

Andy B’s

Main Event

AMF Sheridan Lanes

Broken Arrow Lanes

CASINO

River Spirit Casino Resort

Hard Rock Hotel and Casino

Osage Casino Hotel

EVENT — NONPROFIT

WALTZ on the Wild Side —

Tulsa Zoo

Red Ribbon Gala — Tulsa CARES

The Party: Just Wear White — Family and Children’s Services

Dance of the Two Moons — Indian Health Care Resource Center

GLOW Gala — Global Gardens

EVENT — RUN/WALK/ CYCLE

Saint Francis Tulsa Tough

Tulsa Zoo Run

Tulsa Run

Williams Route 66 Marathon

St. Patrick’s Day Run

FAMILY FUN

Gathering Place

Tulsa Zoo

Oklahoma Aquarium

Guthrie Green

The Lemon-Aid Project

FESTIVAL

Oktoberfest

Tulsa State Fair

Mayfest

Tulsa Pride

Blue Whale Comedy Festival

HANDS-ON ART STUDIO

Pinot’s Palette

The Purple Glaze

Garden Deva

Tulsa Glassblowing School

WaterWorks Art Center

HOTEL

The Mayo Hotel

Hard Rock Hotel and Casino

River Spirit Casino Resort

Brut Hotel

Ambassador Hotel

LIVE MUSIC VENUE — OVER 1,000

Cain’s Ballroom

BOK Center

The Cove — River Spirit

Casino Resort

Guthrie Green

Tulsa Theater

LIVE MUSIC VENUE — UNDER 1,000

Mercury Lounge

The Church Studio

The Vanguard LowDown

The Shrine

LOCAL SPORTS TEAM

Tulsa Drillers

OKC Thunder

FC Tulsa

Tulsa Oilers

The University of Tulsa Golden Hurricane

MOVIE THEATER

Circle Cinema

Admiral Twin Drive-In

Regal Warren Theater

Cinemark Tulsa and IMAX

AMC Southroads 20

MUSEUM

Philbrook Museum of Art

Bob Dylan Center

Tulsa Air and Space Museum and Planetarium

The Outsiders House Museum

Gilcrease Museum

PARK

Gathering Place

Woodward Park

Guthrie Green

Oxley Nature Center

LaFortune Park

PROFESSIONAL ARTS ORGANIZATION

Tulsa Ballet

Celebrity Attractions

Tulsa Symphony

Living Arts of Tulsa

Theatre Tulsa

Inspyral Circus

CIRCLE CINEMA

VENUE — EVENT

Cain’s Ballroom

BOK Center

Guthrie Green

Tulsa Zoo

Station 13

VENUE — PERFORMING ARTS

Tulsa Performing Arts Center

Guthrie Green

Broken Arrow Performing Arts Center

Studio 308

VENUE — WEDDING

Tulsa Botanic Garden

Philbrook Museum of Art

Harwelden Mansion

The Mayo Hotel

Spain Ranch

MORE THAN JUST FINANCIALS

AT VAST BANK’S DOWNTOWN HEADQUARTERS

In 2019 Vast Bank opened its downtown headquarters at 110 N. Elgin Ave., a prominent location in Tulsa’s historic Greenwood District. e ground- oor lobby is unlike any other in Tulsa, as it serves as not only a place for Vast Bank customers to conduct business with its full-service branch, but also as a community hub featuring a Topeca co ee shop, several seating areas, an art gallery featuring multiple local artists throughout the year, and a wall commemorating the history of the Greenwood neighborhood written by historian Hannibal B. Johnson

Most recently the community art space showcased the work of Charisa Dené Jacobs, a Black artist who teaches art at McLain High School for Science and Technology. e paintings on display included work from her current series of portraits inspired by the Black American cowboy.

CITY

Every respectable Tulsan should have a T-shirt sporting their Tulsa pride. One of Tulsa’s biggest collections of tees can be found at Mythic City, 1102 E. Lewis Ave., Suite E. Most popular designs include a Tulsa ag bison, as well as pieces promoting a favorite neighborhood, public school support, Turkey Mountain, “ e Outsiders” and so much more Okie goodness. e storefront is part of the Shops at Mother Road Market, which is a great way to spend an afternoon shopping, eating and having fun at Tulsa’s award-winning Mother Road Market food hall. Mythic Press, the parent company of Mythic City, has been a go-to in T-Town for custom apparel, merchandise, screenprinting and more since it opened 10 years ago.

CHIROPRACTIC CENTER

F5 Chiropractic

918 Chiropractic

Tulsa Spine and Rehab

Free Spirit Chiropractic

Snyder Chiropractic

COSMETIC DENTAL CENTER

Bold Dental

Lewis Park Family Dentistry

Tulsa Premier Dentistry

Perfect Smile Tulsa

Smith Dental Group

COSMETIC SURGERY CENTER

Green Country Surgical Arts

Tulsa Surgical Arts

Plastic Surgery Associates of Tulsa

Whitlock Cosmetic Center

DENTAL CLINIC

Bold Dental

Lewis Park Family Dentistry

Tulsa Premier Dentistry

Smith Dental Group

Littleﬁeld Dentistry

DERMATOLOGY

Tulsa Dermatology Clinic

Cornerstone Dermatology and Skin Surgery Center

Midtown Dermatology

Warren Clinic Dermatology

Tulsa Center for Dermatology

DISPENSARY

Seed Cannabis Co.

Lady Jane’s Naturals

Okie Wonderland

Ritual Dispensary

Nature’s Kiss

EYE CARE

The Eye Institute

Twenty Twenty Eye Care

Downtown Tulsa Eyecare

Midtown Eyecare

Look Eyecare and Eyewear

FITNESS STUDIO — BARRE/PILATES/OTHER

LEAGUE Studios

Health Zone at Saint Francis

Orangetheory Fitness

Club Pilates

Tulsa Fitness Systems

FITNESS STUDIO — YOGA

SALT Yoga

Balance Yoga Barre

Health Zone at Saint Francis

Be Love Yoga Studio

Updog Yoga

HAIR SALON

Jo & Co Salon

The Salon on Harvard

Ihloff Salon and Day Spa

Berkshire Salon and Day Spa

Hello.Salon

HEALTH CLUB/GYM

Orangetheory Fitness

Health Zone at Saint Francis

YMCA of Greater Tulsa

YWCA Tulsa

Tulsa Fitness Systems

HEARING AIDS

Hearts for Hearing

Audiology of Tulsa

Clear-tone Hearing Aid Laboratories

Gilbert’s Audiology and Hearing Aid Center

American Hearing

DENOTES ADVERTISER IN

HOSPITAL

Saint Francis Health System

Ascension St. John

Hillcrest Medical Center

Oklahoma Surgical Hospital

Oklahoma State University Medical Center

MASSAGE

Berkshire Salon and Day Spa

Spa Lux

Ihloff Salon and Day Spa

Quiet Mind Therapeutic Massage

Hands Esthetics and Med Spa

MEDICAL SPA

Kimiko Medical Aesthetics

Fig Medical Spa

BA Med Spa and Weight Loss Center

Emerge Medical Spa

Hands Esthetics and Med Spa

Inject Aesthetics and Wellness

MEN’S GROOMING

Ponyboy Barbershop

The Salon on Harvard

Ihloff Salon and Day Spa

Hello.Salon

Elephant in the Room

NUTRITION/PREPARED MEALS

Pure Food and Juice

Chefs For Seniors

Chef Jason Vaughan

ORTHODONTIST

Bold Dental

Henry Orthodontics

Kirkpatrick and Lai Orthodontics

Cooper and Misner Orthodontics

Tangelo Orthodontics

PHYSICAL THERAPY/ SPORTS MEDICINE

Tulsa Bone and Joint

LifeMotion Physical Therapy and Balance Center

Saint Francis Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Physical Therapy of Tulsa

Resilient Sports Therapy

SKIN CARE

Berkshire Salon and Day Spa

Ihloff Salon and Day Spa

Kimiko Medical Aesthetics

Fig Medical Spa

Hands Esthetics and Med Spa

TATTOO SHOP

Brookside Body Piercing and Tattoo CryBaby Ink

Toxic Monkey

Royal Ink

Ritual Electric

URGENT CARE

Saint Francis Warren Clinic

MedWise Urgent Care

Ascension St. John Urgent Care

PediStat Pediatric Urgent Care

Access Urgent Care

WELLNESS CLINIC

Saint Francis Health System and Warren Clinic

Kimiko Medical Aesthetics

Fig Medical Spa

BA Med Spa and Weight Loss Center

Emerge Medical and Well Spa

MIDTOWN TULSA

(918) 725 - 1705

3230 E 21st Street Tulsa, OK 74114

MIDTOWN TULSA (918) 725-1705

3230 E 21st Street Tulsa, OK 74114

SOUTH TULSA (918) 770 - 7391

SOUTH TULSA (918) 770-7391

9136 S. Sheridan Rd., Ste. C Tulsa, OK 74133

JENKS LANDING (918) 291 - 1420

9136 S. Sheridan Rd., Ste. C Tulsa, OK 74133

JENKS LANDING (918) 291-1420

11476 S. Union Ave, Ste. 102 Jenks, OK 74037

BROKEN ARROW (918) 998 - 0884

11476 S. Union Ave, Ste. 102 Jenks, OK 74037

2552 E Kenosha Street Broken Arrow, OK 74014

DERMATOLOGY

• Mohs surgery is the gold standard treatment for skin cancers of the face, head, and neck

• Board Certified in Dermatology and Mohs Micrographic Surgery

• Over 20 years of combined experience in skin cancer surgery www.cornerstoneskinsurgerycenter.com 918-293-9966

Dr. Carlos Gomez-Meade, D.O.

Dr. Aelayna Meyer, M.D.

Dr. Andrea Briggs and Dr. Julie Holmes

Lunchtime at Tuly’s Tacos, 419 S. Boulder Ave., is a busy one. Multiple lunch rushes prove this is a popular spot for downtown o ce workers and dwellers. Opened in August by Claudia and Joel Ramos, the restaurant is an extension of their popular food truck that resides at Second Street and Lansing Avenue.

Tuly, which is Joel’s nickname derived from tulip in Spanish, has become synonymous with avorful street tacos, plentiful tortas and refreshing agua frescas. Claudia says the Box Combo — two tacos and a mini quesadilla — and the Tuly’s Combo — half a torta and two tacos — are the most popular menu items. Diners can choose from a variety of meats including asada, al pastor, chorizo, chicken and tripa.

THANK YOU, TULSA! You Voted. We’re Honored. J. David Jewelry is proud to be your 2025 Tulsa People A-List Winner for Fine Jewelry. Serving our hometown for over 30 years, it is our privilege to show unconditional love through our people, our process, and our jewelry. Come and visit us at any one of our three convenient locations and let us show you the J. David difference.

BROKEN ARROW

613 North Aspen Avenue, Broken Arrow, OK 74012 • (918) 251-6300

SOUTH TULSA

8200 East 101st Street, Suite B, Tulsa, OK 74133 • (918) 364-6300

BROOKSIDE

3646 S Peoria Avenue Tulsa, OK 74105 • (918) 969-6300

ANTIQUES

Love Me Two Times

River City Trading Post

Windsor Market

Linda James Antiques and Accessories

Route 66 Vintage Market

APPLIANCES

Hahn Appliance Warehouse

Metro Appliances and More

Lowe’s

ART GALLERY

Ziegler Art and Frame

108 Contemporary

M.A. Doran Gallery

Royce Myers Gallery

The Hulett Collection

ARTS

— CRAFTS — HOBBY STORE

Ziegler Art and Frame

The Bead Merchant

Tatermash Embroidery, Gifts and Oilcloth

HobbyTown

Stitches

AUTO DEALER — DOMESTIC

Mark Allen Chevrolet

Bill Knight Ford

Jim Glover Chevrolet

Chris Nikel Chrysler Jeep

Dodge Ram Fiat

Jim Norton Ford

AUTO DEALER — IMPORT

Jackie Cooper Imports

Jim Norton Toyota

Ferguson Subaru

Nelson Mazda

AUTO DEALER — LUXURY

Jackie Cooper Imports

Lexus of Tulsa

Don Thornton Cadillac

Land Rover of Tulsa

BICYCLES

Tom’s Bicycles

T-Town Bicycles

Phat Tire Bike Shop

Bicycles of Tulsa

Bixby Bicycles

BOOKSTORE

Magic City Books

Gardner’s Used Books

Barnes and Noble

Fulton Street Books and Coffee

Oak Tree Books

CLOTHING — CHILDREN’S

Ida Red

The Lolly Garden

Once Upon a Child

SweetPea Couture

CLOTHING — MEN’S

Gearhead Outﬁtters

Travers Mahan

The Racks Tulsa

Jos. A. Bank

CLOTHING — WOMEN’S

J. Spencer

Amber Marie and Co.

Black Sheep Boutique

Lenny Lane

Ella and Orchid

EYEWEAR

Warby Parker

Empire Optical

Black Optical

Hicks Brunson Eyewear

Downtown Tulsa Eyecare

FINE JEWELRY

Moody’s Jewelry

J. David Jewelry

Vincent Anthony Jewelers

Dillon Rose

Israel Diamond Supply

Diamond Cellar

FLOORING — FLOOR COVERING

Grigsby’s Carpet, Tile and Hardwood

Renaissance Hardwood Floors

Mill Creek Carpet and Tile

Brucke Flooring

FLOWER SHOP

Toni’s Flowers and Gifts

Anthousai

Gas Petal Flower Station

Ted and Debbie’s Flower Garden

Mary Murray’s Flowers

FURNITURE CONSIGNMENT/ ESTATE SALES

Mustard Seed Consignment

Exquisite Estate Sales

Round the House

Consignment

J. Gray’s Estate Firearm Services

LD Estate Sale Services

FURNITURE STORE

Mathis Home

Amish Crafted Furniture

North Carolina Furniture Mart

Luxe Furniture and Design

Hawley Design

GARDEN CENTER

Southwood Landscape and Garden Center

Cohlmia’s

Ted and Debbie’s Flower Garden

Rancho Flores Garden Center

GIFT SHOP

Ida Red

Amber Marie and Co.

Elegant Design Co.

Decopolis

Tatermash Embroidery, Gifts and Oilcloth

GROCERY STORE

Reasor’s

Trader Joe’s

Aldi

Sprouts

Oasis Fresh Market

HOME INTERIORS

Amber Marie and Co.

Elegant Design Co.

Shoppe Sasha

Fifteenth and Home

SR Hughes

LIQUOR STORE

Parkhill’s Warehouse Liquors and Wine

Ranch Acres Wine and Spirits

Bulavard Liquor

Bird’s Liquor and Wines

B&B Liquor

NEW STORE/ LOCATION

Elegant Design Co.

Tatermash Embroidery, Gifts and Oilcloth

The Dolphin Fine Linens

Lenny Lane

Grisaille Cottage

PET SHOP

Dog Dish

Southern Agriculture

Fetch

Hollywood Feed

SHOE STORE

Fleet Feet Tulsa

DSW

J. Cole Shoes

Silhouette Sneakers and Art

Fleming’s Comfort Footwear

SHOPPING CENTER/ DISTRICT

Utica Square

Tulsa Hills Shopping Center

Tulsa Premium Outlets

The Rose District

Tulsa Arts District

SPORTS AND OUTDOORS STORE

Scheels

Gearhead Outﬁtters

Bass Pro Shops

Fleet Feet Tulsa

REI

VINTAGE CLOTHING

Tulsa Vintage Co.

Love Me Two Times

Goodwill Tulsa

Harrington Rose Vintage

The Racks Tulsa

• Carpet

• Luxury Vinyl Plank and Tile

• Ceramic & Porcelain Tile

• Luxury Vinyl Plank and Tile

• Ceramic & Porcelain Tile

• Luxury Vinyl Plank and Tile

• Carpet

• Ceramic & Porcelain Tile

• Natural Stone

• Ceramic & Porcelain Tile

• Natural Stone

• Ceramic & Porcelain Tile

• Luxury Vinyl Plank and Tile

• Natural Stone

• Hardwood

• Natural Stone

• Ceramic & Porcelain Tile

• Hardwood