January 2024 Oklahoma Magazine by Oklahoma Magazine

OKLAHOMA

™

OKLAHOMA

PRESIDENT AND EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Le er from the Editor

OKLAHOMA

DANIEL SCHUMAN

PUBLISHER AND FOUNDER

VIDA K. SCHUMAN

MANAGING EDITOR

MARY WILLA ALLEN

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

JOHN WOOLEY

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

BRYAN MEADOR

DIGITAL CONSULTANT

JAMES AVERY

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

STEPHANIE PHILLIPS, BRENT FUCHS

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Oklahoma Magazine is published monthly by Schuman Publishing Company

P.O. Box 14204 • Tulsa, OK 74159-1204 918.744.6205 • FAX: 918.748.5772 mail@okmag.com www.okmag.com

Subscriptions are $18 for 12 issues. Mail checks to Oklahoma Magazine P.O. Box 14204 Tulsa, OK 74159-1204

Copyright © 2025 by Schuman Publishing Company. Oklahoma Wedding, The Best of the Best, 40 Under 40, Single in the City, Great Companies To Work For and Oklahomans of the Year are registered trademarks of Schuman Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

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Reproduction, copying, or redistribution without the express written permission of Schuman Publishing Company is strictly prohibited.

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e beginning of the year is wrought with con icting emotions. Excitement for things to come, of course, but also some sadness at the ending of a festive season. If you’re struggling with a bit of the post-holiday blues, we o er an antidote: ings to Do in 2025 (page 38). Outlining annual community celebrations, performances, sporting events and general Okie goodness, this piece will help get you back in a merry mindset.

Another way to remain grateful for the year ahead? Taking a moment to re ect on the people who made a di erence for us in 2024. We do just that in our Oklahomans of the Year feature, starting on page 31. From pioneers in the educational and healthcare sectors to tribal leaders and one gentleman described as the “chief marketer for Oklahoma,” these eight Okies are committed to bettering our state – and our world – for years to come.

If you’re anything like me, you may be dusting o your exercise equipment in the next couple of weeks as those New Years’ resolutions come a-knockin’. While it may seem daunting to reach lofty goals – whether those aspirations are to get back into the gym, get a better handle on your mental health or spend more time with those you love – our Health and Wellness feature can o er some guidance (page 26).

January also welcomes our Oklahoma Wedding special section, starting on page 42. Photo-rich spreads of everything from cakes to catered dishes, owers and bridal gowns await, alongside some planning advice and a few honeymoon recommendations.

If that doesn’t quite satiate, we’ve also got a story about a very rare, very adrenaline-pumping activity called volcano boarding (page 20); a peek into Utica Square’s newest French restaurant (page 57); and a deep dive into how Oklahomans are collecting and preserving vital oral histories (page 12).

Oklahomans of the Year

Exploring who made 2024 better for our state & its people

Happy 2025, Oklahoma. Let’s make it a good one!

Mary Willa Allen Managing Editor

Health & Wellness

Tackling New Year’s resolutions

Oklahoma Wedding

Planning your big day

Oklahomans of the Year

While some may deem the practice antiquated, pen pal programs still help to create connections across the globe.

Advanced surgical care

To help any e ort succeed, a leader must emerge to pioneer the way. Someone intelligent and driven, but also kind, charismatic and trustworthy. Oklahoma has a multitude of such leaders – people who are passionate about our state and those within it. ey are transforming Oklahoma through their work, whether it’s in healthcare, government leadership, education, law, tribal a airs or community development. We shine a spotlight on eight of these innovators, those who truly deserve the title of Oklahoman of the Year.

Life & Style

Volcano boarding is found in Nicaragua and o ers a true adrenaline rush ... along with some emotional catharsis, too.

from the robotics leader in northeast Oklahoma

21 Outside the Metro

If surgery is part of your treatment plan, take time for your health and talk with a surgical specialist at Ascension St. John about options that are best for you. As the robotics leader in northeast Oklahoma, our advanced technology shortens recovery time so you can get back to the activities you enjoy.

ings to Do in 2025

It’s no secret: January brings with it the post-holiday blues. Families and friends return to their daily routines, Christmas decorations are stored away, and resolutions made during cheerier moments now feel a little unrealistic. We’ve all been there. If you’re caught in the slumps, looking ahead might lift your spirits. e coming year is packed full of ground-breaking developments, exciting attractions and the return of beloved annual celebrations. We o er a glimpse of what’s to come.

A new ne dining spot in Tulsa’s Utica Square, Rise, o ers up sou és galore.

58 Local Flavors

59 Chef Chat

42 Oklahoma Wedding

Scan the QR to schedule a consultation and learn more about robotic-assisted surgical treatments at Ascension St. John or get a second opinion.

Every January, Oklahoma Magazine presents the Oklahoma Wedding special section, which spotlights local orists, caterers and bakers, as well as the latest fashions in bridal gowns, bridesmaids dresses and guest attire. Other goodies include honeymoon recommendations and planning advice.

Kick o 2025 with ample activities around the state.

63 Film & Cinema 64 Closing Thoughts

Learn about Things to Do in 2025 starting on page 38. Options include OKC Thunder games, Tulsa Tough, a Broadway show, the Red Earth Festival or a visit to the Philbrook museum. All photos courtesy the respective event/company; OKC Thunder photo courtesy NBAE/Getty Images

26 A Fresh Start

With a new year comes new resolutions. Perhaps the most common of all? Bettering oneself. is means improving both physical and mental health – alongside smaller goals like better hydration, more sleep, and extra time spent with loved ones. Experts advise on how to start 2025 o on the right foot.

38 ings to Do in 2025

Oklahomans of the Year

42 Oklahoma Wedding

PRESIDENT AND EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

DANIEL SCHUMAN

OKLAHOMA OKLAHOMA OKLAHOMA

PUBLISHER AND FOUNDER

VIDA K. SCHUMAN

MANAGING EDITOR

MARY WILLA ALLEN

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

JOHN WOOLEY

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

BRYAN MEADOR

DIGITAL CONSULTANT

JAMES AVERY

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

STEPHANIE PHILLIPS, BRENT FUCHS

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: ADVERTISING@OKMAG.COM

EVENTS AND CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS: EVENTS@OKMAG.COM

QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS ABOUT CONTENT: EDITOR@OKMAG.COM

ALL OTHER INQUIRIES: MAIL@OKMAG.COM

Oklahoma Magazine is published monthly by Schuman Publishing Company P.O. Box 14204 • Tulsa, OK 74159-1204 918.744.6205 • FAX: 918.748.5772 mail@okmag.com www.okmag.com

Subscriptions are $18 for 12 issues. Mail checks to Oklahoma Magazine P.O. Box 14204 Tulsa, OK 74159-1204

Reproduction, copying, or redistribution without the express written permission of Schuman Publishing Company is strictly prohibited.

Le er from the Editor

Happy 2025, Oklahoma. Let’s make it a good one!

Mary Willa Allen Managing Editor

The State

ALL THINGS OKLAHOMA

Writing New Relationships

ship, education, law, tribal a airs or community development. We shine a spotlight on eight of these innovators, those who truly deserve the title of Oklahoman of the

While some may deem the practice antiquated, pen pal programs are still helping to create connections across the state, country and world.

T38 ings to Do in 2025

he idea of pen pals has been around for generations. In the past, people exchanged letters using snail mail, either with those who lived in other parts of their cities, other states, across the nation, or even around the world. Pen pals sometimes exchanged small gifts, trinkets and newspaper clippings from their hometowns, and postage stamps on the envelopes provided other prizes to treasure.

In the process, the “pals” learned about those who lived in other areas, and the culture and ideas that were unique to them. When writing their letters, they practiced grammar skills, spelling and vocabulary, and boosted cognitive abilities, while having fun, positive and educational experiences – and uplifting one another’s self-esteem.

AutismOklahoma’s pen pal project

emerged during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when much-needed scheduled structure was disrupted. The nonprofit’s program remains popular and is directed towards children with autism, their siblings and their parents, as well as adults with autism.

42 Oklahoma Wedding

Every January, presents the Oklahoma Wedding special section, which spotlights local orists, caterers and bakers, as well as the latest fashions in bridal gowns, bridesmaids dresses and guest attire. Other goodies include honeymoon recommendations and planning advice.

new ne dining spot in Tulsa’s Utica Square, Rise, o ers up sou és galore.

ever that may be. Everything on the schedule was removed during COVID. So, we developed our BLAST program – Building Life Along The Spectrum Together – which is our pen pal program. This became a way to keep people engaged with other people. We replaced schedules with connecting to others, to reduce the feeling of isolation.”

“Autism can be isolating,” says Stacey Weddington, AutismOklahoma’s community impact director. “People with autism thrive on structure and the support that is built into their day at school, job, or wher-

“LC vets all of their volunteer leaders, and all LC pen pals sign AutismOklahoma’s volunteer release and codes of conduct,” says Weddington.

AutismOklahoma is one of Life.Church’s (LC) mission partners. Pen pal program participants complete a questionnaire that provides information about their favorite topics of conversation, general interests and more. Then LC members sign up for their pen pal based on those common interests.

Their program has forged relationships, introduced people to AutismOklahoma, and helped them engage with monthly

about Things to Do in 2025 starting on page 38. Options include OKC Thunder games, Tulsa Tough, a Broadway show, the Red Earth Festival or a visit to the Philbrook museum. All photos courtesy the respective event/company; OKC Thunder photo courtesy NBAE/Getty Images found in Nicaragua and o ers a true adrenaline rush ... along with some emotional catharsis, too.

The Peaceful Pen Pals Project is helmed by Kids for Peace, which aims to create a global community of kind, compassionate and empowered young people who are uplifting the world through love and action. All photos courtesy Kids for Peace

OKLAHOMA

Le er from the Editor

Oklahoma Magazine is published monthly by Schuman Publishing Company

cautions are more serious than they were for previous generations. There are risks to consider, and responsible adults should be proactive to keep minors safe. The following are a few suggestions:

• Parents, teachers or other adults in charge should monitor all pen pal communications. All unacceptable messages should immediately be given to an adult. Additionally, pen pals should never arrange to meet one another barring unique circumstances.

• Before beginning, research the pen pal to ensure the person is who he or she claims to be. This may mean checking social media accounts, searching for someone’s information online, or asking for references from the pen pal club or organization. A club or organization may be a good way to create a legitimate pen pal experience to begin with.

programs that benefit the autism community. For information and to sign up, those interested may go to autismoklahoma.org.

P.O. Box 14204 • Tulsa, OK 74159-1204 918.744.6205 • FAX: 918.748.5772 mail@okmag.com www.okmag.com

Subscriptions are $18 for 12 issues. Mail checks to Oklahoma Magazine

P.O. Box 14204 Tulsa, OK 74159-1204

Happy 2025, Oklahoma. Let’s make it a good one!

The Peaceful Pen Pals Project has launched over 400 chapters in over 25 countries. The one-on-one pen pals project connects youth with matches that are close in age and in gender, and the nonprofit’s class-to-class option connects student classrooms to each other.

each other and our planet. Kids for Peace serves as a model and inspiration for creating this reality with children leading the way, not only for today, but for generations to come.”

Mary Willa Allen Managing Editor

Pen Pal Safety

According to their website, kidsforpeaceglobal.org, “we are building a global community of kind, compassionate and empowered young people who are uplifting the world through love and action. Our vision is a safe and peaceful world where all people respect and care for

Pen pal relationships may be a bit different these days due to internet communication and other high-tech complications. But pen pal organizations often exist to allow the pen pal experience, but with guidelines and boundaries that address the array of safety issues. If you don't want to go the 'stranger' route, possible good options for finding pen pals include extended family or friends who live out of state, or connecting children to pen pals through teachers. Due to the internet and complicated ‘stranger danger’ issues, pen pal safety pre-

What’s HOT at OKMAG.

• Establish rules for pen pal communication. This may include how often and what type of communications are exchanged, as well as what information will be exchanged. Examples of information not to share may include one’s full name, address, phone number, information about family and friends, computer and internet passwords, and school information. Youth should fully understand what constitutes personal information, and the safety issues involved. Establishing a P.O. Box, creating a pseudonym or only revealing your first name are excellent ways to avoid oversharing.

For more ings to Do in 2025 content, visit okmag.com. OKC under photo courtesy NBAE/Getty Images

• Pen pals should never respond to any messages that make them uncomfortable.

OF THE

• Be cautious of pen pals who are significantly older.

• It’s unwise to exchange any personal or family photographs.

CAROL MOWDY BOND

2025

2020

The Heartbeat of Music

Drumming, called by many the backbone of a song, can be mastered with help from passionate instructors in Oklahoma.

26 A Fresh Start

Learning to play an instrument is, arguably, one of the most rewarding hobbies to take part in. Studying and perfecting a new skill over time, especially one that produces music, is a popular pastime for a reason. Drums, often considered the backbone of music, require a completely different skill set to something like the guitar or piano.

“Drumming is a great combination of both mental and physical performance,” says Scott Rouse, owner of Tulsa Drum Lessons.

ings to Do in 2025

Although the skill for drumming is partly innate, Rouse believes anyone can learn to play.

Someone intelligent and driven, but also kind, charismatic and trustworthy. Oklahoma has a multitude of such leaders – people who are passionate about our state and those within it. ey are transforming Oklahoma through their work, whether it’s in healthcare, government leadership, education, law, tribal a airs or

ment for learning to play drums. Plenty of people are self-taught or use online videos, but there’s often a ceiling with that method – which is when in-person lessons come into play.

and making sure injuries aren’t going to occur are especially important.

“Like any instrument, the goal is independence between two hands,” says Jim Korakis, owner of Good Life Music & Media Lessons in Tulsa. “For the drum set, coordination is required between both hands and both feet, and then between hands and feet separately.”

Rouse agrees, and says he prefers his lessons be tailored to the individual.

“My goal as a teacher is to bring out my students’ personality on the instrument. That means the path of learning will always be unique,” he says. “While I focus on fundamentals and building a strong foundation, I always want my lessons to reinforce my students’ love of music first. I will also work to teach them skills to be part of the music, as a performer, on a deeper level. Playing to music, especially with other live musicians, is really where the magic is.”

Volcano boarding is found in Nicaragua and o ers a true adrenaline rush ... along with some emotional catharsis, too.

Imagining a tune without a certain instrument makes it feel incomplete in a way that seems glaring. This is often most noticeable with the drums.

ne dining spot in Tulsa’s Utica Square, Rise, o ers up sou és galore.

“Establishing the necessary coordination and listening skill to be a ‘musical’ drummer takes a lot of repetition,” he says. “This is where an inherent sense of timing and coordination could help, though the discipline of regular practice and playing remains more important. Ultimately, the skills needed to play drums are similar to learning any instrument; patience and persistence.”

Lessons are another obvious key ele-

orists, caterers and bakers, as well as the latest fashions in bridal gowns, bridesmaids dresses and guest attire. Other goodies include honeymoon recommendations and planning advice.

“Working with a teacher versus online tutorials is good for accountability and making sure that you’re not establishing bad habits,” says Rouse. Fundamentals

“When music requires drums, I think the drums often set the tone and can really make the piece,” says Rouse. “Look at the way most recording studios, when tracking traditional bands, start with the drums. This is the foundation. Rhythm is movement. Music can be lifted by this movement and drummers are the cohesive element of the band leading that movement,” he continues.

Korakis agrees wholeheartedly.

“Drums are the heartbeat of music,” he says. “At his Skywalker Sound studio, the great George Lucas has a saying: ‘Sound and music are 50% of the cinematic experience.’ Drums and rhythm play a massive part in that.”

DREW JOSEPH ALLEN

Good Life Music & Media Lessons in Tulsa offers an array of instruction, from music to animation, game design and coding. Photos courtesy Good Life Music & Media Lessons

PRESIDENT AND EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

DANIEL SCHUMAN

OKLAHOMA OKLAHOMA OKLAHOMA ™

PUBLISHER AND FOUNDER

VIDA K. SCHUMAN

MANAGING EDITOR

MARY WILLA ALLEN

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

JOHN WOOLEY

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

BRYAN MEADOR

DIGITAL CONSULTANT

JAMES AVERY

JCONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

STEPHANIE PHILLIPS, BRENT FUCHS

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: ADVERTISING@OKMAG.COM

Le er from the Editor

For a Winter Sojourn

anuary might not seem like the most conducive time to get into the great outdoors, but here in Oklahoma, this month can provide plenty of mild weather days to off-set the chill. And many of us find ourselves looking for opportunities to stay active and get some sunshine to chase away the winter doldrums.

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So, taking the chance to explore some of our state’s wilderness areas on a pleasant hike can be just the ticket. But there are some things to keep in mind, including preparations that hikers should take, before they set off on that winter journey.

Oklahoma Magazine is published monthly by Schuman Publishing Company P.O. Box 14204 • Tulsa, OK 74159-1204 918.744.6205 • FAX: 918.748.5772 mail@okmag.com www.okmag.com

Subscriptions are $18 for 12 issues. Mail checks to Oklahoma Magazine P.O. Box 14204 Tulsa, OK 74159-1204

While walking in the woods doesn’t require an expensive trip to the outdoor store, a few essentials are needed for a safe and comfortable hike. Footwear tops the list for the potential hiker. William Hagenbuck, III, who serves as head naturalist and park manager for the OKC Parks Natural Resources Division, emphasizes the importance of hiking shoes or boots that provide necessary traction and minimize the risk of injury. Slip-on style shoes should be avoided, he says.

Happy 2025, Oklahoma. Let’s make it a good one!

Mary Willa Allen Managing Editor

A hiker’s backpack should include water, sunscreen at any time of year, insect repellant, and a first aid kit. Staying hydrated should also be a concern regardless of the temperature.

“Water and electrolyte-based drinks will replenish lost fluids and minimize the risk of muscle cramps and heat-related illness,” says Hagenbuck. “Hiking during the cold also requires proper hydration.”

Reproduction, copying, or redistribution without the express written permission of Schuman Publishing Company is strictly prohibited.

He recommends wearing layers when hiking this time of year, as the body tends to warm up from physical exertion. And, he says, don’t forget gloves and some insulated headwear.

It is also essential to familiarize yourself with the area before starting your hike. Hagenbuck reminds hikers to always be aware of forecasted weather conditions and never to hike in inclement weather. Because hiking locations can be in remote areas, another suggestion Hagenbuck has for the hiker’s backpack is a paper or downloaded map in case you run into an area with no cell coverage.

Going with friends is one way to stay safe and make your hikes more enjoyable.

If you are looking to connect with others who want to explore Oklahoma’s trails, Hagenbuck recommends online options, Facebook, Meetup or AllTrails, and checking your local library, community center, or coffee shop for posted flyers on hiking groups. Interested parties can also contact the local parks department, where staff may offer guided hikes and information on community organizations around hiking enthusiasts.

BONNIE RUCKER

Where To Hike in OK

If you’re ready to try hiking and simply looking for a place to go, Hagenbuck has several recommendations to fit a hiker’s interests and abilities. “Urban locations, such as Martin Park Nature Center in Oklahoma City or Oxley Nature Center in Tulsa, are great for youth and families looking for beginner-level hiking,” he says. “The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge in Lawton is a favorite among hikers, along with trails located within Oklahoma State Parks sites across the state, and the Chickasaw National Recreation Area in Sulphur.”

OKC Parks offers a variety of guided hikes for outdoor enthusiasts and beginners alike. Photos courtesy OKC Parks

Efforts Worth a Dam

The Grand River Dam Authority and the Oklahoma Water Resources Board ensure Oklahoma’s dams are safe, secure and ready for emergencies.

In Oklahoma, dams are not only crucial for managing water resources, but they also play a vital role in keeping residents safe and powering the state.

With over 4,700 dams, the state of Oklahoma has the fifth most dams of any state in the United States. These structures serve multiple purposes, including flood control – preventing damage to communities in low-lying areas – water supply for agricultural needs, and electricity generation. Among these thousands, four dams, Denison, Eufaula, Fort Gibson and Pensacola, are hydroelectric power producers, helping to generate renewable energy. These functions are managed by various state and federal agencies, including the Oklahoma Water Resources Board

(OWRB) and the Grand River Dam Authority (GRDA).

Non-Electric Dams

The OWRB is tasked with overseeing the safety of Oklahoma’s dams, primarily handling the non-hydroelectric structures.

“The OWRB regulates jurisdictionalsized, non-federal dams in Oklahoma, overseeing over 4,660 dams owned by both public and private entities,” says Julie Cunningham, the board’s executive director. “The purpose of the program is to ensure these dams are constructed and maintained in a way that will prevent a dam failure and harm to downstream lives and property.”

Employees of the OWRB conduct regular inspections, assess dam conditions and develop emergency action plans. Their work also involves coordinating with local governments and other agencies to address any safety concerns.

“Typical maintenance activities include routine inspections, monitoring water levels to prevent overtopping, clearing debris from spillways, repairing any cracks or surface damage on concrete structures, operating and testing gates and valves, and managing unwanted vegetation,” says Yohanes Sugeng, OWRB’s chief engineer. “These tasks help maintain the dam’s safety, functionality and long-term performance.”

Staff members are skilled in en-

gineering, hydrology and water resource management, using their expertise to ensure dams continue to protect Oklahomans from the risks of flooding and infrastructure damage.

Hydroelectric Dams

Conversely, the management and operation of the state’s hydroelectric dams fall under the purview of the GRDA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). The GRDA, a state agency, is responsible for operating the hydroelectric plants at Denison, Eufaula, Fort Gibson and Pensacola, the last of which was Oklahoma’s first hydroelectricity facility built in 1940. These dams produce electricity and regulate water flow along the Grand River system, benefiting local ecosystems, recreational areas and municipal water supplies. Employees at the GRDA monitor the dams’ electrical output, maintain the machinery, and ensure that the hydroelectric plants are operating efficiently and safely.

“When rains of significant magnitude affect northeastern Oklahoma, GRDA works closely with the USACE to control the heavy flows of water along the Grand River system,” says Justin Alberty, GRDA’s communications director. “The Corps orders release rates that are consistent with downstream conditions and projected river crests. All the lakes along the Grand River, in the Arkansas River system, are operated to minimize downstream flooding, including Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees. When water levels exceed or are anticipated to exceed 745 feet on Grand Lake, the Corps of Engineers takes control and determines how much water is released through the floodgates. Once [the water level] drops to 745 feet, the GRDA once again assumes control over releases.”

Day-to-day operations at the GRDA include managing the release of water to meet power generation needs while balancing flood control and environmental considerations. Engineers, technicians and water resource specialists work together to ensure the dams operate smoothly, providing power to thousands of Oklahomans while maintaining the integrity of the state’s water resources.

ROCCO GEPPI

Oklahoma is home to four hydroelectic dams, including the Pesacola. Contructed in 1940 (above), this dam creates Grand Lake (below). Photos courtesy GRDA

An Exercise in Global Empathy

Model United Nations programs help students see the world from different perspectives.

In a time of global unrest and uncertainty, perhaps no educational endeavor is more relevant than one where students represent different countries and come together to solve world problems. That’s exactly what Model United Nations (MUN), a competitive collegiate program, is all about: an exercise in global empathy.

“Model United Nations is just the absolute perfect [way] to cultivate empathy,” says Helen Fullerton, a 2024 graduate of Oklahoma State University and former participant. “It completely allows you to shift your mindset away from what you know – what we’re raised in – and see the world from a different perspective.”

MUN is a simulation of the United Nations where students take on the roles of diplomats representing different countries, says Cheryl Van Den Handel, Ph.D., associate professor of political science and MUN faculty adviser at Northwestern State University.

“The goal is to debate and negotiate solutions to world issues,” she says. “So they deal with things like climate change, humanitarian disasters, migration flows, refugees, internally displaced persons, drought and the environment, starvation, war and other kinds of conflicts.”

Participants attend conferences, where they go head to head with students from other schools. They research the country they are representing and take part in a general assembly, as well as economic, social and security council committees.

“They become delegates of that country,” Van Den Handel says. “So they have to put aside their own positions on issues, which can sometimes be difficult, and become a diplomat on those issues for that country.”

Students write position papers that demonstrate their position on different topics, give speeches, debate and negotiate with delegates from other countries – all while staying in character and working toward solutions.

Prior to each conference, participants get to choose three countries they would like to represent. But sometimes they end up advocating for a country with issues that are completely unknown to them.

“You may absolutely disagree with most of their policies and how they would actually vote,”

Fullerton says. “But that allows you to take a deep dive in and see where they’re coming from and really understand how different countries across the world feel and how they’re experiencing global policy.”

While students work diligently to critically assess what is going on in the world and how to come up with solutions, they don’t always succeed.

“They find out just how difficult it is to achieve any kind of consensus among a group of people,” Van Den Handel says.

“Everyone has their their own issues and their own positions that they bring to the table. And you know, the more people you have – MUN is 203 countries – the more difficult it is to to develop any kind of consensus.”

In addition to attending conferences, colleges and universities with MUN programs work to cultivate a sense of global awareness for everyone on campus.

“At Oklahoma State, we’re making sure there's a space to discuss some of the more touchy global issues that, sometimes, people have seen a lot about in the media but don’t have a full awareness and understanding of,” Fullerton says. “We might have a guest speaker or, for instance, when the Palestinian Hamas conflict began, we had what we called a ‘think tank’ where students could come together and discuss what was going on and make sure that we’re getting all of our facts straight, and just see it from a non-biased and educational perspective.”

GRETCHEN EICHENBERG

Alongside learning about global conflicts, Model United Nations programs help students gain insight into different countries, their governments and their policies. Photos courtesy OSU MUN

A River Running Through

Oklahoma is home to nearly 80,000 miles of river.

Did you know Oklahoma is totally encompassed within two large drainage basins? These are the Red River and the Arkansas River. The two bodies of water, as well as their many tributaries, flow into Oklahoma from all six of our neighboring states; however, all surface water leaves Oklahoma by way of the Red, Arkansas and Little Rivers, as well as Lee Creek. Most rivers and tributaries flow generally to the east and southeast across the state. Oklahoma has approximately 78,603 miles of river; we break down the details of some of the state's most notable of these.

Arkansas River

The Arkansas River is a major tributary of the Mississippi River. It flows to the east and southeast as it traverses the U.S. states of Oklahoma, Colorado, Kansas and Arkansas. The river’s source basin lies in Colorado, specifically the Arkansas River Valley.

The headwaters derive from the snowpack in the Sawatch and Mosquito mountain ranges. It flows east into Kansas and finally through Oklahoma and Arkansas, where it meets the Mississippi River. Three major cities are situated along the banks of this river that drains nearly 160,500 square miles of land: Wichita, Kan.; Tulsa, and Little Rock, Ark.

At 1,469 miles, it is the sixth-longest river in the United States, the secondlongest tributary in the Mississippi–Missouri system, and the 45th-longest river in the world.

Red River

The Red River is the second-largest river basin in the southern Great Plains. It rises in two branches in the Texas Panhandle and flows east, where it serves as the border between the states of Texas and Oklahoma.

It forms a short border between Texas and Arkansas before entering Arkansas, and forms much of the eastern border of Miller County, Ark., turning south near Fulton and flowing into Louisiana, where it feeds the Atchafalaya River.

The total length of the river is 1,360

miles, with a mean flow of over 57,000 cubic feet per second at the mouth.

Washita River

The Washita River forms in eastern Roberts County, Texas, near the town of Miami in the Texas panhandle. The river crosses Hemphill County, Texas, and enters Oklahoma in Roger Mills County. It cuts through the Oklahoma counties of Roger Mills, Custer, Washita, Caddo, Grady, Garvin, Murray, Carter and Johnston before emptying into Lake Texoma, which is the modern border between Bryan County and Marshall County.

The river bisects the heart of the Anadarko Basin, the fifth-largest natural gas formation area in the United States. When the river reaches the Arbuckle Mountains, it drops 30 feet per mile as it cuts through Big Canyon, a limestone gorge 300 feet deep.

The Washita’s river bed is made up of unstable mud and sand, and its banks are

composed of steeply incised and erosive red earth. This makes it one of the most silt-laden streams in North America.

Salt Fork Red River

The Salt Fork Red River is a sandy-braided stream about 193 miles long, heading on the Llano Estacado of west Texas about 1.8 miles north of Claude of Armstrong County, Texas, flowing east across the Texas Panhandle and western Oklahoma to join the Red River about 13 miles south of Altus in Jackson County.

The Salt Fork Red River rises in northern Armstrong County, Texas, just to the south of Carson County. It flows southeast across Donley and Collingsworth County, crossing into Oklahoma at the 100th meridian. It then flows through Harmon County and Greer County, turning south near Mangum, and flows through central Jackson County, to its confluence with the Red River.

SHARON MCBRIDE

The Arkansas River; stock photo

Loving Fido and Felix

Whether you adopt or purchase, bringing a new animal into your home is

a serious commitment.

Our feline and canine companions do more than provide fellowship. In fact, multiple studies show that pets help lower stress, combat loneliness and provide a sense of purpose. The most common ways of acquiring said pets are through adoption agencies and reputable breeders.

The SPCA – Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals – almost always has animals to adopt, and the process isn’t overly complicated.

“People can either apply online, or they can just stop into our shelter or at one of our many adoption events in the community,” says Mindy Tiner, CEO of the SPCA’s Tulsa branch. “At that point, we just have a conversation. We will discuss the animal they’re interested in, their lifestyle and expectations for this new member of the family, and try to make the best connection possible. Other than cruelty situations, there isn’t really anything that will automatically make us deny an adoption. Once a match is made, we go over medical records and any other information we have on the animal, and they get to head home. We do follow up at regular intervals to see how things are going and offer assistance if needed.”

While adopting an animal is an exciting time, it requires plenty of dedication.

“If you want to open your heart and home to a dog or cat, we want to do what we can to make that happen,” says Miner. “We offer many resources – from access

to affordable veterinary care to temporary assistance with essentials such as food and supplies to help facilitate those relationships.”

Whether adopting from a shelter or purchasing from a breeder, there are things to consider.

“When you adopt, you are saving two lives,” says Miner. “You’re saving the animal you adopt, but you are also making it possible for us to bring another animal into our program in their spot. Additionally, with adoption, you know you aren’t unintentionally contributing to pet overpopulation. When you purchase an animal from a responsible breeder, you do know more about the animal’s lineage. This can sometimes help you avoid medical or behavioral issues.”

Tiffany Epperly of Edmond Doodles is a vetted breeder and offers advice on how to proceed once you’ve chosen the specific breed of dog or cat you want to adopt or purchase.

“The next step is to research reputable breeders or rescue organizations that specialize in that breed,” she says. “It’s important to gather as much information as possible about the breeder or rescuer, including their reputation, breeding practices, and the health and temperament of their animals. Most reputable breeders have a website and social media presence to give families a window into their program. Some join the Better Business Bureau or go through the process of getting certified through reputable breeding organizations.”

When visiting a breeder or rescue, be sure to come prepared, advises Epperly. Have relevant questions and requests ready – which include asking to see the parents if possible, how the animals have been socialized, what kind of conditions have they been exposed to, and what health tests and vaccines have been given.

There are some red flags to be aware of, Tiner says, including lack of transparency, poor living conditions, or not offering any health guarantees. Over-breeding may be occurring if the breeder has multiple litters of different breeds available at the same time.

“One important aspect to consider is the ongoing support and resources the breeder provides to their puppy families,” says Epperly. “At Edmond Doodles, we answer any questions families may have, offer training tips and provide guidance throughout the puppy’s life.”

When it comes to adopting a new furry family member, “don’t be so focused on how an animal looks that you miss out on making a connection with the perfect new addition to your family,” says Miner. “Also, while we want everyone to have a great experience, bringing a new animal into your life can sometimes be challenging – don’t give up too quickly! If it just isn’t a fit, there is no shame in that – but this furry friend is going to love you forever and unconditionally, we hope you will do the same.”

TRACY LEGRAND

Whether adopting or purchasing an animal, always be sure to ask the breeder or rescuer relevant questions about health and socialization. Photos courtesy Tulsa SPCA

Communicating & Connecting

State efforts serve to promote and preserve storytelling in its many forms.

Stories captivate us, whether it’s sharing legends and limericks, tall tales and true accounts, or folklore and fancy dances. Stories unite, delight, educate and inspire.

“Whether fiction or nonfiction, printed or imparted, stories help us find meaning and transmit customs, culture, knowledge and morals,” says Kimberly Roblin, director of communications with Oklahoma Humanities.

Preserving and promoting Oklahoman’s stories helps guide the work of Roblin and other supporters in the state. The efforts include grant projects that fund research or events, oral interviews to capture the experiences of residents, and native dances and storytelling to educate audiences about tribal customs and traditions.

Different Ways to Share

Roblin says the programs offered by Oklahoma Humanities and grants awarded by the nonprofit organization are rooted in stories.

The organization is the state partner for the National Endowment for the Humanities and annually awards federal grants to cultural organizations at the local level, such as tribal nations, county historical societies, museums and libraries. Another effort is “Museum on Main Street,” a collaboration with the Smithsonian Institution that sends traveling exhibitions to communities.

Sarah Milligan has the opportunity to listen to numerous stories through her work with Oklahoma State University’s

Taking Time to Listen

Inspired to support storytelling in your community or even in your own family? Milligan and Roblin have ideas on how to get started.

The Oklahoma Oral History Research Program’s website (library.okstate.edu/oralhistory) features a video on how to start your own oral history project. Milligan says a key when it comes to talking with others about their experiences is to make time to ask questions and be “intentional to listen when people are willing to talk to you," she says.

Roblin encourages individuals to “think about the stories that have resonated with you, where you heard them, and consider how you might be able to more directly support them. Maybe it was a local museum or library, a nonprofit, in a magazine or on the air. By becoming a member, subscribing, donating money or time as a volunteer, or even just sharing the work they do with family and friends, not only do you help the story survive, but you also become a part of it.”

SHARLA BARDIN

Oklahoma Oral History Research Program.

“We interview people around the state about the history and culture of Oklahoma and OSU,” says Milligan, a professor and head of the program at the OSU library. “It’s a way to capture these experiences and these places and people for the future.”

Listening to the stories of others creates connections between tellers and listeners, she says.

Storytelling also can be shared in other forms. Sapulpa’s Mike Pahsetopah, for example, is a cultural educator, language consultant and a renowned Fancy Dancer.

“I enjoy telling a variety of intertribal stories, as well as my tribal stories,” says Pahsetopah, who is Osage-Cherokee and Muscogee Creek-Yuchi.

Pahsetopah has learned more about this art form from native storytellers through the years, including how tribes have used dance and instruments to share their culture. He says that sharing stories and dances with audiences is a way to educate others about legacies, traditions and history.

Sharing State Stories

Is there a giant octopus lurking in an Oklahoma lake? How did the state help contribute to the Chicken Dance craze? You can get insight into these unique bits of folklore by tuning into the “How Curious” podcast on station KGOU. The podcast is a way of spotlighting “lesser known aspects of Oklahoma people, places and events,” says host Rachel Hopkin. “It’s really fun to track down stories that are not so well known and really should be known.”

To check out the podcast, visit kgou.org/podcast/ how-curious.

Sarah Milligan has the opportunity to listen to stories, experiences and accounts of individuals in the state through her work with Oklahoma State University’s Oklahoma Oral History Research Program. Photo courtesy Oklahoma State University

Mike Pahsetopah, of Sapulpa, is a cultural educator, language consultant and renowned Fancy Dancer who performs dances and traditional storytelling for a variety of audiences.

Photo courtesy Mike Pahsetopah

Rapid Recall

Trivia nights offer a chance to boost the brain – and have fun doing it.

Are you fascinated by fun facts? Got a talent for sport statistics?

Have a mind full of music and movie knowledge or a brain that fixates on science and history? Then create a team and make your way to the nearest trivia event in your community. Turns out, you’ll find plenty of options in the Oklahoma City and Tulsa metros.

Trivia enthusiasts in both communities say the pastime is a way to have fun with friends and family, support local bars and restaurants, and test their knowledge on a variety of subjects.

The Tuesday trivia nights at Shuffles Board Game Cafe in Tulsa draw a large group of players, says owner Eric Fransen.

“We love trivia; we’re all about games,” says Fransen, whose café features a large selection of games to try, alongside food and drink.

Fransen works with the trivia business Questionable Company to host the weekly event. Questions posed to the audience cover topics such as science, geography, entertainment and general trivia.

Tulsan Francine Adams plays at Shuffles with her team weekly, and loves the atmosphere and the assortment of queries.

“There are questions for everybody –but they make sure that some of them are challenging for people that play on a regular basis,” she says.

Adams and her team, known as the Slayaz, have been playing trivia for seven

years. They range in ages and backgrounds and have become close friends over the years. Part of the fun of trivia nights, she says, is to blend together the interests and knowledge of other players. Adams

encourages any interested to give it a go. And, sure, sometimes a wrong answer happens, but that shouldn’t stop you from playing.

Wade Pierce of Oklahoma City is a longtime trivia fan who now gets the opportunity to host and write questions for trivia nights around town. Pierce is the owner of BanjoBug Trivia, a company that is hired by bars and restaurants to host events.

Pierce says he enjoys writing questions, and that you have to have "a blend of questions that’s appealing to a large group of people.”

He also believes the host plays a key role in trivia.

“It has to be someone that’s energetic,” he says. “The questions have to be good –but the host has to be fun and silly, too.”

Another perk of a trivia night is the potential for prizes. In some cases, winning teams can go home with a gift card from

that particular bar or restaurant. And for teams who excel in the game, there’s the chance to compete on a higher level, like the Oklahoma Trivia Premier League.

Teams can earn points when they play trivia at a BanjoBug trivia night. At the end of the season, top teams play in the finals where they compete for cash and prizes.

Aside from tangible rewards, trivia also offers other benefits, enthusiasts say.

Playing games to boost knowledge “helps in keeping a young, more pliable brain,” says Fransen. Adams agrees.

“With trivia, you get people who still want to learn more,” she says.

Pierce mentions that trivia is also a great way to get friends together and give each member a chance to shine in their favorite subject areas. Having players on a team who are different ages is also helpful.

“The teams that do really well have a really good variety of interests – but also a really good variety of ages,” Pierce says.

SHARLA BARDIN

Trivia for You

Ready to challenge yourself with trivia? Here’s a quick quiz (with answers below):

1. What is James Bond’s code name?

2. Who is considered the “Father of Relativity?”

3. What do you call a group of flamingos?

4. Relative to the internet, what does “URL” stand for?

5. According to The Guinness Book of World Records, what’s the best-selling book of all time?

A group gathers for a trivia game at Prairie Artisan Ales in Oklahoma City.

Wade Pierce is the owner of BanjoBug Trivia, a company based in Oklahoma City that is hired by bars and restaurants to host games. Photos courtesy Wade Pierce

People test their trivia knowledge during a game at Prairie Artisan Ales in Oklahoma City.

Where ‘Stuff’ Belongs

Storage units are popping up across Oklahoma. But why now?

With across-the-cityor-country moves, downsizing, inheritances or side gig overflows, Oklahoma and the country at large are experiencing a rise in storage unit business in recent years.

“Self-storage is a need-based industry,” says Herb Dierking, division vice president of Oklahoma and Texas at Extra Space Storage. “As the customer need increases, so does the amount of facilities in an area. Self-storage has steadily become more common worldwide and has been gaining popularity in the U.S. since the early 1970s. This trend is often linked to U.S. culture, which values both practical and esoteric possessions.”

As for Oklahoma, Dierking believes the rapid growth of self-storage here is tied to overall expansion in the Midwest. As the population grows, so does the demand for storage space – especially in areas where there is a lot of movement into a city.

The reasons why people rent storage units, says Dierking, vary depending on the customer.

“The most popular reason for storing is because of a housing move – moving to a new city or to a new home,” he says. “The second most popular reason to store is due to a lack of space – many homeowners and apartment dwellers need the extra space for items that aren’t used every day.

Some other uses we see are people in life transitions, such as getting married or divorced, or customers using storage as a staging area. People also rent parking spaces, which are used for boats or RVs. Businesses often rent units for overflow and inventory. Pharmaceutical and marketing companies store promotional materials and supplies. The reasons for renting really run the gamut.”

Working at a storage unit business means a self-driven manager wears many hats, says Dierking. They handle customer service, minor property maintenance, security checks and safety inspections. They keep facilities clean, make followup customer calls, and manage various administrative tasks throughout the day.

Pricing is similar from company to company, with a rise in cost for climate controlled units.

“Our units range in size from small, 5x5 lockers to larger, 12x40 spaces and beyond,” he says. “The most popular sizes are 5x10, 10x10, 10x15 and 10x20. Some units are climate controlled, others have drive up access. There’s a range of options. Pricing depends on those factors and more, including market conditions, supply, demand and seasonality.”

While you may not think twice when passing a storage facility, Dierking says the industry itself is unique, because it spans multiple disciplines.

“While it’s primarily a property management business, it also involves customer service, sales, marketing, administration and legal compliance,” he says. “While it can seem like a simple business model –three walls and a door – it is actually very dynamic.”

While the majority of renters are responsible, there are always those who abandon their possessions or don’t pay rent as required. So – what happens to those belongings? As depicted on reality television, sometimes the answer is an auction, open to the public with no more than a peek from outside the unit, to clean out and acquire the contents.

“Auctions aren’t our primary focus,” says Dierking. “In fact, we do everything we can to avoid them. However, when customers default on their rent, we sometimes have no choice but to follow state laws for processing the units for auction. This allows us to free up the space for a new paying customer.”

Dierking continues: “One little known fact about storage auctions: self-storage companies cannot make a profit from them,” he says. “When the unit is sold, the funds can cover any debt the customer may have to the storage company and any additional money is returned to the customer.”

TRACY LEGRAND

Self-storage units can range in size, with additional options for climate-control and drive-up access.

Photo courtesy Extra Space Storage

An Oklahoma Reading List

As the temperatures get colder and colder, it’s the time when curling up with a good book is just the ticket.

Why not learn more about Oklahoma while doing so?

Check out our list of books set in Oklahoma or by Oklahoma authors. There’s a wide range of suggestions, whether you like fiction, nonfiction, poetry or young adult novels. And you just might learn a thing or two about this great state.

The Outsiders

By S.E. Hinton

1967

Set in Tulsa and written by Tulsa-born author S.E. Hinton, The Outsiders changed the landscape of young adult fiction. Readers can learn more about being a teenager in 1960s Tulsa from the realistic story of Ponyboy Curtis and his struggle to find his place in a society that largely rejects him.

Where the Red Fern Grows

By Wilson Rawls

1961

The nature imagery and simple but beautiful storytelling in this classic will ring familiar to anyone who has experienced rural northeastern Oklahoma. Oklahoma author Wilson Rawls draws on his experiences in this story of a boy and his two pups roaming the Ozark Hills in the early part of the 20th century.

Killers of the Flower Moon:

The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI

By David Grann

2017

This nonfiction work brings to light what the Osage Nation’s people knew as the Reign of Terror. This work by New York Times bestselling author David Grann

should be on every Oklahoman’s book list. (The 2023 Martin Scorsese film of the same name can be a bonus treat after finishing the book!)

The Innocent Man:

Murder and Injustice in a Small Town

By John Grisham

2006

Paradise

By Toni Morrison 1997

Toni Morrison, recipient for the Nobel Prize for Literature, writes beautiful, if difficult, epic prose about a fictional all-Black town in Oklahoma where a brutal crime occurs early one morning in 1976.

Grapes of Wrath

By John Steinbeck

1939

In this prolific novelist’s first nonfiction work, readers learn about a small-town Oklahoma murder and the following investigation. A local Ada baseball player, and major league wash-out, is put on death row, ... but is he really guilty?

Ready Player One

By Ernest Cline 2011

This futuristic thriller is set in Oklahoma City, but the real action takes place in a virtual utopia called OASIS. The main character is avoiding his unpleasant reality by escaping it entirely. But when his attempts to solve virtual puzzles lead him into a much darker, and more real, element he finds his virtual world may not be all he had hoped.

Boom Town:

The Fantastical Saga of Oklahoma City, Its Chaotic Founding, Its Apocalyptic Weather, Its Purloined Basketball Team, and the Dream of Becoming a Worldclass Metropolis By Sam Anderson

2018

For the nonfiction lovers, this exciting history of Oklahoma City tells the whole story about our fascinating capital.

This classic is a staple of every Oklahoma book list. Steinbeck’s compelling depiction of the Great Depression is illustrated through the Joad family who must leave their Oklahoma farm to head to California for redemption.

Bound for Glory

By Woody Guthrie

1943

This autobiography by one of Oklahoma’s favorite sons also gives a good depiction of the Great Depression era. Get insight into Guthrie’s personality and discover what made him a legend in his own time and since.

A Dog Called Kitty

By Bill Wallace 1992

Bill Wallace was born and raised in Oklahoma and became a teacher and principal at the same school he had attended as a child. He became an author when the stories he made up for his students were a big hit with the children. A Dog Called Kitty is about a boy who must overcome his fear of dogs to help rescue a special pup.

BONNIE RUCKER

Reaching the Summit

Oklahoma’s highest point is found at Black Mesa State Park.

Oklahoma is home to a plethora of beautiful landscapes. Black Mesa, an area of land that covers Colorado, New Mexico and Oklahoma, is one of the best places to take in the natural sights of the Sooner State.

“Black Mesa provides guests with some of the best stargazing in the state,” says Chase Horn, the communications director for the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department. “The dark skies bring hundreds of visitors to the park every year for the annual Okie-Tex Star Party, and it’s the perfect spot for astrology enthusiasts to view the Perseid meteor shower.”

The short grass prairie has abundant wildlife including mountain lions, butterflies and Texas horned lizards.

In fact, says Horn, “Black Mesa State Park is also the only place in Oklahoma where you can find bighorn sheep.”

In centuries past, the area was home

to the Plains Indians, including Anasazi, Kiowa, Comanche, Cheyenne and Arapaho tribes. Evidence of Indian habitation dating back thousands of years has been found in caves around Kenton.

The area was also home to outlaws during the early 20th century, such as William Coe and Black Jack Ketchum.

The Panhandle, then a no man’s land with very little law enforcement, saw an influx of criminal activity until it was eventually settled by miners and farmers.

As for the present day, the mesa still has plenty for travelers.

“When visiting Black Mesa State Park, guests have the opportunity to hike the 8.4 mile round trip to the state’s highest point,” says Horn. “The park has 25 RV sites and 25 campsites, so guests can stay overnight and take advantage of some of the darkest skies on publicly accessible land in the country.

“The park has taken steps to minimize

light pollution, like putting up shielded lights, to make sure stargazers have an amazing view,” he says.

Along with the beautiful views and other wildlife, there are also plenty of birds for those looking to catch a glimpse of golden eagles, scaled quail, black-gilled magpies and pinyon jays. Prehistoric-centered activities exist as well.

“There are dinosaur footprints on private land next to the park that guests are allowed to visit,” says Horn. These tracks were discovered in the 1980s and due to erosion, only a third of them still remain today.

Although the mesa itself has been around for quite some time, the park isn’t nearly that old.

“Black Mesa became a state park in 1959 and gets its name from the layer of black lava rock that coated the mesa years ago,” says Horn. “If you hike to the highest point, you can see this volcanic field in the distance including Sierra Grande, an ancient shield volcano, and Mount Capulin, a cinder cone volcano,” Horn says. Both volcanoes are extinct but offer stunning views from the highest point in Oklahoma.

DREW JOSEPH ALLEN

Today, Black Mesa State Park offers stunning high-altitude views and outdoor recreation. Photo by Lori Duckworth/Oklahoma Tourism

Creating Community

Two state-based community foundations make Oklahoma a better place to live, work and play.

Oklahoma City Community Foundation

In 2022, nearly 60,000 Oklahomans were unemployed, according to the U.S. Department of Labor Statistics. Yet, there were 36,000 more job postings than people searching for work, according to the State Chamber Research Foundation. That didn’t add up, so the Oklahoma City Community Foundation (OCCF) decided to dig in and solve the problem.

“We found Oklahoma is experiencing mass shortages in areas like nursing, truck driving, early education and software development – all of which require months, if not years of training and education,” says Trisha Finnegan, OCCF’s president and CEO.

In response, the foundation, in collaboration with other local organizations, developed a Workforce Development Scholarship Program which has now awarded just over $400,000 in grants for training opportunities for individuals, which is raising wages and filling critical gaps for local employers, Finnegan says.

Since 1969, the OCCF has been helping individuals, families and organizations make the greatest impact on the most

pressing needs facing the community, with workforce and education being top priorities.

“I don’t believe there’s any other resource in a community that brings people together to contribute and create change more than a community foundation,” Finnegan says. “The Oklahoma City Community Foundation has worked to bring people together from across the community who want to invest in this place and the people who live here.”

The foundation serves people and organizations in central Oklahoma and beyond, and OCCF is the largest independent provider of scholarships in the state. This past year, the foundation awarded more than $4.5 million to more than 1,000 students, Finnegan adds.

“We love being part of this growing community, working with public and private partners to move OKC forward,” Finnegan says. “OCCF is proud to be a place where individuals, families and organizations come together to improve the quality of life for our community.”

George Kaiser Family Foundation

Creating equal opportunity for the children of Tulsa and the surrounding area is at the heart of everything local businessman George B. Kaiser stands for in life. His Tulsa-based charitable organization, the George Kaiser Family Foundation (GKFF), is dedicated to breaking the cycle of poverty and providing the greatest opportunity for everyone to succeed through investments in early childhood development and education; community wellbeing

and justice; civic enhancement; and social services.

“Since we began our work in 1999, GKFF has been guided by a commitment to making Tulsa a place where every person and family can flourish, no matter their background,” says executive director Ken Levit.

A key GKFF initiative, the Birth through Eight Strategy for Tulsa (BEST), targets families with young children, intervening in some of the most formative years with the hope of breaking the cycle of intergenerational poverty. The strategy aims to ensure families have the tools to increase the percentage of children: born healthy, on a positive development trajectory by age three, ready to enter kindergarten and achieving success by third grade.

Through collaborations with public and private partners and community-based organizations, GKFF pursues efforts that create lasting, positive change in nearly every aspect of a Tulsan’s life, Levit says.

“From support at birth to fostering economic opportunity through education, job training, entrepreneurship and vibrant public spaces, our approach is comprehensive and community-focused,” he says. “By working with local partners to adapt proven national programs and using evidence-based practices, GKFF tackles our community’s most pressing challenges through initiatives which work to reverse the generational cycle of poverty, especially for very young children and their families, and create long-term opportunities that empower communities, foster sustainable economic growth and ensure lasting social impact.”

GRETCHEN EICHENBERG

OCCF scholarship recipients pose at Oklahoma City Community Foundation's annual scholarship luncheon. Photo courtesy OCCF

The George Kaiser Family Foundation is aimed at breaking cycles of poverty and provides job training, education and entrepreneurial opportunities. Photo courtesy George Kaiser Family Foundation

A Hee-Hawing Good Time

The Kornfield Friends will perform this month after a four-year hiatus.

As northeastern Oklahoma resi-

dent Jana Jae recalls it, the whole thing began back in early 2017. That’s when she and several other alumni of the long-running Hee Haw TV show gathered for a meal in a Nashville restaurant, following a memorial celebration for the program’s recently deceased producer, Sam Lovullo.

“There was a house band, and they asked me, ‘Where’s your fiddle?’” she says. “Well, it was packed up, in the bottom of my trunk, so I said, ‘Oh, it’s all put away.’

“A little more time went by, and then Misty Rowe said, ‘Well, Jana, if you’ll go get your fiddle, I’ll dance.’”

Jae laughs. “Long story short, that’s what happened. I went out and got my fiddle, we went up there with the band, Misty danced, and we brought the house down. Then, as we were eating our dinner, I said, ‘You know, this is so much fun. I have a bus. We ought to take this show on the road.’”

It didn’t happen immediately. In fact, it didn’t happen for a year or so. But, notes Jae, during that stretch, she was busy “asking people about it,” getting a booking agent, and forming a company, Kornfield Friends LLC.

“I lost about $19,000 getting things going,” she says, “because we took my bus, and I also bought plane tickets for the band when we played a couple of casino dates up in the northwest, which was too far for the bus. I was paying for all sorts of things until I woke up and realized this was going to run me into bankruptcy!”

Still, she persevered, putting together a quartet of well-known former Hee Haw cast members that included actress-entertainer Rowe, multi-instrumentalist Buck Trent, and comedian-singer Lulu Roman, backed by Jae’s band.

“At the time, I thought, ‘This is kind of like the Oak Ridge Boys – four of us, and we’re a unit,’” she recalls. “We were so darned good, and we just had so much fun. We had lots of bookings going then, multi-multi-thousands of dollars worth of signed contracts for 2020.”

Then, like so many other things across the country, it was all, she notes, “wiped out” by the pandemic.

It’s taken nearly four years for her to re-

launch the project, with a Jan. 25 show set for the Grove Performing Arts Center, and there’ve been some changes in the interim.

Trent passed away last year, and Roman is no longer able to travel. However, says Jae, “Misty and I are going pretty strong,” and she’s been able to add three other acts to the show. One, Irlene Mandrell, actually did some dates with the pre-COVID Kornfield Friends; her Hee Haw stint began after she’d co-starred on the NBC-TV show Barbara Mandrell & the Mandrell Sisters, along with her sisters, Barbara and Louise. Like Misty Rowe, Mandrell was one of the “Hee Haw Honeys,” a group of highly attractive women dressed in scanty backwoods-style clothing who enlivened both the music and comedy portions of the show.

Then there’s Rex Allen Jr., a countrymusic hitmaker of the ’70s and ’80s, when Hee Haw was at its peak. During the show’s run, he was a guest performer on several episodes.

“I knew he’d been on Hee Haw; he was part of the 50-year celebration we did in Nashville [in 2019] with the Kornfield Friends,” Jae says. “I knew him, and I thought, well, 'I’ll just ask him.' He said yes and was real tickled to do it. He’s a great guy and he’s got a great voice, too. [Coun-

try-music impresario] Jim Halsey told me he’s got the best voice in the business.”

Completing the roster is Buddy Alan Owens, who scored his own hit country singles in the ’60s and ’70s. More important, as far as Hee Haw goes, is his pedigree. He’s the son of Buck Owens, who co-hosted the program with Roy Clark for most of its long run.

“I called Buddy, because he had just been with us at the National Fiddler Hall of Fame [in Tulsa] to induct [Buck Owens’ longtime band member] Don Rich,” says Jae. “He was so gracious and so good there, and he did four or five songs really well. I knew he was probably way too busy, but I asked him to join us and he said yes immediately. He was happy to do it and excited to do it.”

Jae, who was briefly married to Buck Owens in the ‘70s, was a featured member of his band, the Buckaroos. She estimates that she did five seasons of Hee Haw

“It was, I guess, 26 shows a year, so you can figure that up,” she says. “It was a wonderful, wonderful experience that brought me to a new career pinnacle. Everyone who was on Hee Haw had a career advancement.

“It really was a phenomenal show. It brought families to the TV screen. People

Kornfield Friends, a country music outfit founded by Jana Jae, is composed of former members of the long-running Hee Haw TV show. Photos courtesy the John Wooley Collection

would tell me, ‘Oh, yeah, I watch you every Saturday night.’ Then, a few years went by, and it was, ‘Oh, yeah, my folks watched you every Saturday night.’ Now, it’s ‘My grandparents watched you every Saturday night.’”

She laughs again, but there’s plenty of truth in that observation. Hee Haw, which ran from 1969 through 1993 and is still around in reruns, was one of the early syndicated-show successes. Dropped by CBS after a couple of years, it went into syndication and ended up running for a quarter of a century, which means that at least three generations of viewers were exposed to its combination of cornpone wit, fast-moving blackout-style sketches and lots of country music, all unfolding in a mythical setting known as Kornfield Kounty. There were singalongs, jokes told by cast members and guests rising up out of a cornfield, and the famed “pickin’ and grinnin’” segments featuring Clark and Owens.

“It was a mix of humor and good music and jokes and silliness and fun and laughing – I mean, what could be sillier than some of those singalongs, like ‘I’ve searched the world over and thought I’d found true love; you met another and pfft you were gone.’” She chuckles. “In fact, that’s what everybody wants – those old singalongs. So we do those in the show. We

Insider | The State

do pickin’ and grinnin’. We pop out of the cornfield with jokes. It’s really just a fun show filled with good music.”

The five principals will be joined at the Grove performance by a four-man band, all from Oklahoma: drummer Steve Short and bassist Richard Sharp (who are also members of Oklahoma Swing, the band profiled in my November column); keyboardist Richard Kennedy, a former linchpin of Roy Clark’s band; and longtime Tulsa guitarist Pat Savage. According to Jae, “They’re all top-notch guys, and they know the show.”

With this new beginning, she adds, “We all want to carry on the Hee Haw spirit. It’s the spirit of fun, the spirit of a family gettogether, and having Buddy there is nice, because it’s kind of like a blessing from Buck. When we started off last time, we had Roy’s wife and sister-in-law come out and give us their blessing, and that was really special. The country music industry is an extended family, but that’s especially true of Hee Haw. All of us in the cast had such a great time, and we still feel like we’re family.”

JOHN WOOLEY

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE KORNFIELD FRIENDS SHOW, PRESENTED BY THE GROVE CONVENTION AND TOURISM BUREAU, CALL 918-786-6107. SHOWTIME IS 7 P.M. ON JAN. 25 AT THE GROVE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER IN GROVE, OKLAHOMA.

The Professionals

How can I become financially prepared for a disaster?

Nearly everyone may be exposed to a natural disaster at some point. Keeping you and your family safe is the ultimate priority, but so is mitigating the impact of financial loss. Here are some things to keep in mind to help you prepare. 1. Put the proper protection in place. There may be no more important step than to make sure you have appropriate insurance coverage that is current and up to date. This includes property and casualty insurance to protect your home, vehicles and other possessions. Also make sure you and your family have sufficient health insurance in place should medical attention be required during a disaster.

2. Have cash on hand. It isn’t unusual for many of the services we take for granted to be out of commission if a natural disaster should strike. One solution is to make sure you keep a reasonable amount of cash safely tucked away in your home, so you have money that’s available to use when you need it. 3. Protect key documents. Important documents should be stored in a safety deposit box at a bank. This includes birth and marriage certificates, Social Security cards, passports, and titles to your home and cars. 4. Maintain an emergency fund. Your sources of income may be interrupted, either by an inability to work due to injury, or because the business where you are employed may not be able to operate for a period of time. Be sure you have at least six months of living expenses set aside in a liquid, emergency fund to meet your expenses if you should be unable to work for an extended period of time.

David Karimian, CFP®, CRPC®, APMA® Prime Wealth Management

A private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial 2431 E 61st St, Suite 400, Tulsa, OK 74136 918.388.2009 David.x.Karimian@ampf.com www.primewealthmgmt.com

What treatment would you recommend to improve my skin’s texture on my face?

I would recommend an Opus treatment. Opus is a first-of-it’s-kind radiofrequency skin resurfacing technology that uses plasma energy to improve the skin’s tone and texture, delivering results similar to traditional deep resurfacing treatments without the downtime. This treatment uses plasma technology to slightly ablate the skin, which stimulates the surrounding tissue to repair itself, improving collagen production. It is a quick outpatient treatment that can be personalized to specific patient needs and treat all skin types. Opus is the perfect procedure to improve wrinkles, fine lines, crepey/saggy skin, acne scars, and even stretch marks. All areas of the face and body can be treated by Opus with noticeable results after just one treatment. Combined topical stem cell therapy or patients’ own PRP may also be added. To schedule an appointment and find out more information on Opus, call Fig Medical at 918-932-8810.

Cristie Lehr-Hawkins. M.D., Fig - For Inner Good - Medical Spa 8921 S Yale Ave - Tulsa, OK 74137 918.932.8810 - figtulsa.com

Medical director of aesthetics & Wellness

DR. CRISTIE HAWKINS

DAVID KARIMIAN CFP®, CRPC®, APMA®

Life & Style

Riding Life’s Volcano

Volcano boarding, also known as 'sliding,' is found in Nicaragua and offers a true adrenaline rush ... along with some emotional catharsis, too.

“Icould never do that!”

That was my initial reaction to seeing a particular photo of a daring activity in an international travel book. Years passed and I revisited this lingering idea.

Within the “ring of fire” of volcanoes and earthquakes, Nicaragua hosts a thrilling way to interact with its youngest active volcano: volcano boarding. Reportedly, this activity, also called sliding, only occurs in Nicaragua and Guatemala.

Located at Cerro Negro, meaning “black hill," the basaltic cinder cone I ‘boarded’ last erupted in 1999.

Among vibrant mountains and farmlands, the jungle ride there built much anticipation. The drive through canopied, tree-lined pathways on volcanic ash roads was serene. A fallen tree from the previous night’s storm caused a short detour, granting more time for appreciating the views. The check-in process involved receiving

my gear: a sled and a backpack of protective outfiting and accessories, including goggles, a balaclava and gloves with grips. A sherpa guide carried this load for me for $5. The $35 excursion included the transport, hike, descent, snack and tour information. A mid-ankle hiking boot for better traction is recommended for this approximately one hour sojourn up the gravely pumice. Adrenaline propelled me through the ascent while I enjoyed the landscape views.

Sure-footed steps of a mountain goat helped me avoid any slipping or “human avalanching.” The narrow path atop the crater’s edge was intimidating, but also euphoric as a kaleidoscope of butterflies greeted me. It was surreal to encounter butterflies at the crux of a volcano – and it’s said that they represent our deceased loved ones. I took a moment to honor that idea and found it inspiring as I persevered. At the top, I discovered natural phenomena nearby like a hot stone radiating heat from magma below.

Only having a small reserve of nerve left in me, I anxiously wanted to begin the slide. Donning the protective gear, I felt the balaclava, which covered my nose and mouth, was stifling but necessary in order to keep flying ash from harming me. I controlled the speed by leaning backward or forward, adjusting the slack of the board’s rope and braking with my feet.

If the mythological Sisyphus taught me anything, it was personified in this moment. “What goes up must come down.” I hiked up the volcano resolutely, carrying

A MAP TO LIVING WELL

the intense emotions of losing parents, a son’s wedding, and the challenges of aging. But then I rolled those emotional boulders down with the exhilaration of feeling young and brave again for three minutes at several miles per hour.

The epiphany: Life’s a silent volcano of eruptions, and it’s the rich minerals that blanket the earth in the aftermath that can be so healing. A big percentage of people panic and don’t complete the slide (they have to be transported down in extreme measures). Some call the camaraderie of this activity “trauma bonding” and daredevils hoping to break records end up breaking bones.

It’s never too late to be adventurous –but if this excursion is too intense for you, at least take the drive out there and watch others do it. The contagious joy of this unusual activity will delight you.

Interacting with nature this way mirrored some of life’s lessons:

• Focus. Don’t look down or back.

• Dig in your heels and brake when needed. This resolve orients you.

• Find your pace. Ascend, push, descend, relax.

• Set boundaries and don protective gear.

• Detours: Find the beauty in them.

• Celebrate where you are in life. Challenge your fears and reach the finish line. So ... the next time you feel like saying you can’t do something, say instead, “I haven’t done that, yet!”

GINA MICHALOPULOS KINGSLEY

Volcano boarding occurs when a person literally slides down the side of a volcano. Reportedly, this activity is only offered in Nicaragua and Guatemala. Photos courtesy Gina Kingsley

Positively Poteau

Welcoming, historical and delightful, Poteau is a must-visit Oklahoma gem.

From ties to JFK and Bonnie and Clyde to sweeping panoramic vistas, Poteau is brimming with history, mystery and opportunity.

Although it’s a relatively small city with a population of around 8,520, Poteau is a great day-trip destination with plenty to see and do. For starters, Poteau is home to Carl Albert State College, Kiamichi Technology Center and the Skatepark Off Broadway. To the nature lovers: Poteau has you covered. Taking a stroll through the Kiamichi Mountains is a top choice, and the LeFlore County municipality also affords residents and visitors alike a stunning view of the Ouachita National Forest from Cavanal Hill, dubbed “the world’s highest hill” at just one foot shy of mountain designation. Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy the glorious vistas of the Talimena National Scenic Byway.

LeFlore County Historical Society director David Deaton advises a visit the LeFlore County Museum located at Hotel Lowrey, with its 28 rooms of artifacts ranging from military antiquities to relics from the Choctaw tribe. The museum also houses curios from the Heavener Runestone and Spiro Mounds, alongside an informative – and surprisingly captivating – barbed wire collection.

And as for Poteau’s aforementioned ties to JFK?

“John F. Kennedy came to Poteau in

1962,” says Deaton, “The museum houses the very podium at which he made a speech when he dedicated a highway.”

For Deaton, one of the most interesting things about Poteau is another interesting relation to some of the most famous criminals in history.

“In the late 1920s, Bonnie and Clyde robbed the Poteau Bank in downtown Poteau,” he says. “That building is still standing, and though you cannot go in, there is a sign on the window of the building which tells the story of the Bonnie and Clyde robbery. This site is also on the walking tour.”

The Hotel Lowrey building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and “was built in 1922 as an immigration office, converted to a hotel in 1932 and was in operation as a hotel until 1968,” Deaton continues. “The museum has a Robert S. Kerr room, a honeymoon suite and a pioneer room.”

It’s always a good time to visit Poteau, but Deaton mentions that the annual Poteau Balloonfest in October is typically peak tourist season. He says that whatever the season, however, indulging in a walk exploring Poteau to take in the sights, including statues of Black Angus Bulls in “honor the legacy of Robert S. Kerr and his huge Black Angus cattle ranch,” is a great idea. For a guided tour, the Downtown Dewey District hosts a walking tour to visit all the unique buildings in downtown.

For dining options Deaton says, “a

must-visit is Warehouse Willy’s, which sits in the heart of downtown Poteau and is right across the street from the LeFlore County Museum.”

TRACY LEGRAND

Poteau Chamber of Commerce

918-647-9178 poteauchamber.com

LeFlore County Museum at Hotel Lowrey 918-647-9330 leflorecountymuseum.org

Cavanal Hill

918-647-9178 poteauchamber.com

The Skatepark Off Broadway 918-839-6306

Historic Downtown Poteau Farmers Market

918-647-8648

The Poteau Balloonfest is an anticipated annual event every October.

Downsizing Hacks

Moving into a smaller space means making tough choices and getting rid of some belongings. Experts make that experience less stressful.

Ever wondered if you just have too much stuff? Or, on the flip side, maybe too much space?

If either of those thoughts have crept into your mind, you’re probably right. But there are ways you can work through it and experts who can help. According to Sharyn Willard, owner of Mature Transitions of Tulsa, the issue is common, and the solution isn’t as tough as you may think.

“Downsizing is the process of simplifying one’s living situation, often by moving to a smaller, more manageable space,” she says. “People choose to downsize for a variety of reasons: it may be to reduce upkeep, eliminate excess belongings, cut costs or make a fresh start in a new location. For many, downsizing is a natural step as they transition into a new phase of life, such as retirement.”

The act of downsizing comes with its struggles, says Willard.

“Many people feel a strong connection to their possessions, especially if they hold

sentimental value or are tied to memories – especially if they remind them of someone that has passed away,” she says. “They don’t want their belongings to end up in a dumpster. Another challenge is the overwhelming feeling that can arise when faced with the volume of items to sort through.”

Downsizing offers numerous benefits, from financial savings and less home maintenance to a simplified, more intentional way of living.

“Downsizing can also offer an opportunity to live closer to family, access better amenities, or enjoy a fresh space tailored to one’s current lifestyle, says Willard. “Once the downsizing process is in force, or completed, there will be a sense of stress relief.”

Willard suggests putting a positive spin on downsizing: viewing it as “an opportunity rather than a loss,” she says.

Downsizing specialist Anna Novak with Home Transition Pros says that the most common thing she hears from clients is that they “just don’t know where to start. I help clients prioritize the belongings they currently need and use on a daily basis, preserve the possessions that matter the

most to them, and let go of the rest.”

Novak adds that downsizers often struggle with decision fatigue and not knowing where to find qualified services to help with selling, donating or managing the logistics of a move.

“Many of my clients are downsizing the family home and need to let go of 80% or more of their belongings,” she says. “My clients are usually so relieved when they are settled into their new space, and they often say they wished they had done it sooner. A large home and lots of accumulated possessions eventually turn into a burden for people, and they are happy to move on from the physical and emotional work of maintaining the family home.”

Older couples are not the only happy recipients of downsizing help, says Novak.

“Adult children also appreciate having a trusted professional handle the day-today details,” she says. “Many are busy with their own jobs or families or live far away, so having someone manage the transition allows them to reclaim their role as a supporter rather than a taskmaster.”

DEBI TURLEY

Drake Atterberry, Daniel Karami, Reagan Collins; From the Highlands concert, OKC Philharmonic

Beverly & Bill Kellough; Peggy V. Helmerich Distinguished Author Award, Tulsa City-County Library

Aaron, Katie & Ron Petrikin; Peggy V. Helmerich Distinguished Author Award, Tulsa City-County Library

Drew Edmondson, Anita Arnold, Tim DuBois, Greg Burns, Anne Morris Greenwood, Benton C. Clark III, Amber Valletta; Induction Ceremony, Oklahoma Hall of Fame, OKC

Sandra Langenkamp, Ellen Adelson, Susie Tatum Woody; Peggy V. Helmerich Distinguished Author Award, Tulsa CityCounty Library

Marissa Raglin, Mary James Ketch, Angie LaPaglia, Denise Duong; Impressions exhibit opening, Gaylord-Pickens Museum, OKC

Karen Wille, Leslie Lawson, Jennifer Palmer, Diane Bays; Tulsa AWARE Luncheon, Alzheimer's Association, Tulsa

H. W. Brands, Peggy Helmerich, Kimberly Johnson; Peggy V. Helmerich Distinguished Author Award, Tulsa CityCounty Library

Monroe Nichols, Mary Coleman Woolslayer, H.W. Brands, Peggy Helmerich, Kimberly & Earl Johnson, Judy Zarrow Kishner; Peggy V. Helmerich Distinguished Author Award, Tulsa City-County Library

Matt & Stacey Scott, David Gaither; Board meeting, Calm Waters Center for Children and Families, OKC

Brandi Bowers, Ashleigh Gibson, Erin Engelke, Lyndzee Sherman; Celebrate Pink Luncheon, Oklahoma Project Woman, OKC

John & JaHanna Harper, Marnie Taylor, Deena & Tom Fisher; 2024 Visions Awards, Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits, OKC

Caring for the Tiniest of Patients

Neonatal intensive care workers tend to those who cannot yet tend to themselves.

Neonatal intensive care units (NICU) care for the tiniest patient population – newborn babies who are born prematurely or with other serious medical complications.

“Some of the most difficult decisions regarding life and death are made in the NICU,” says Craig Anderson, D.O., a neonatologist with Ascension St. John Medical Center in Tulsa.

Anderson explains that while there are heroic celebrations for families and staff when a once medically critical newborn is able to go home, there are also times of overwhelming emotion with a dying child and grieving family.

“Some newborns are delivered at the threshold of viability and in spite of all the technology and interventions, some cannot be saved,” he says. “There is also a population of newborns born with unsurvivable anomalies, lethal genetic disorders, and morbidities due to maternal complications that also cannot survive. We have a palliative care team to address these situations and assist the parents in the grieving process.”

To manage the healthcare of such small patients who are unable to communicate verbally, Anderson says they “rely on invasive and non-invasive monitoring as well as laboratory results and physical assessments to determine and treat the clinical diagnosis.”

He also shares that the NICU staff are always ready for an emergent case with a team of neonatologists, neonatal nurse practitioners, registered nurses and registered respiratory therapists on standby to attend high risk deliveries.

“These complex and critical deliveries are not always planned nor anticipated, so highly skilled caregivers are ready to intervene at any time 24 hours a day,” he

says. “Many of these complicated deliveries lead to critical newborns requiring continuous care and monitoring in the NICU. Procedures performed on these tiny and often critical newborns require intense precision and accuracy.”

According to Anderson, more than 75% of all admissions to the NICU are for newborns with respiratory distress, and while there’s many health issues newborns can face, he says some of the most common conditions are as follows.

“Transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN) is more common in near term babies born to mothers who were not in natural labor but rather induced or delivered for another serious medical condition,” he says. “The fetal lungs are naturally full of fluid and the clearance of this fluid after birth is compromised leading to respiratory distress. This naturally resolves in two to five days. Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), also known as hyaline membrane disease (HMD), is commonly seen in babies born premature – less than 37 weeks – due to the deficiency of a natural substance produced in the human lung called surfactant. Fortunately, there are prenatal and postnatal interventions that can successfully prevent and treat this

common disorder.”

In addition, he says there are a group of congenital anomalies that compromise a newborn’s breathing.

“Cysts, solid masses, displaced intestinal contents, cardiac and abnormal airway disorders make up a long list of possible abnormalities that may occur,” says Anderson. “Fortunately, prenatal ultrasounds can diagnose the majority of these abnormalities and provide the neonatal team with information necessary to provide the proper intervention after birth for the best possible outcome. Pediatric surgery is often required for many of these airway and lung abnormalities and therefore we have a surgical team on call 24 hours a day to assist in the care.”

He also notes that while having a wealth of medical information readily available online can be beneficial for family members, it can also cause difficulties if the information is incomplete or misunderstood. It’s important to know that neonatologists and neonatal nurse practitioners obtain years of medical training to be experts within their field and all team members are working together to provide each patient with excellent care.

REBECCA FAST

At INTEGRIS Health, our mission is to partner with people to live healthier lives and the New Year is the perfect time to get back to the best version of yourself. Start by making an appointment with your INTEGRIS Health Medical Group primary care physician.

At INTEGRIS Health, we’re guided by our mission of partnering with people to live healthier From lifesaving treatments to preventive wellness, that partnership is about working together back to you and what you care about most.

As the state’s largest not-for-profit and Oklahoma-owned health care system, we know that is more than medicine. It’s a responsibility to provide compassionate, personalized, comprehensive cutting-edge care close to home.

As the state’s largest not-for-profit and Oklahoma-owned health care system, we know that health care is more than medicine. It’s a responsibility to provide compassionate, personalized, comprehensive and cutting-edge care close to home.

So, let’s get you back to the best and healthiest version of you.

A FRESH START

With a new year comes new resolutions. Perhaps the most common of all? Bettering oneself. This means improving both physical and mental health –alongside smaller goals like better hydration, more sleep and extra time spent with loved ones.

Experts advise on how to start 2025 off on the right foot.

By Rebecca Fast

PHYSICAL HEALTH: REACHING YOUR GOALS

When beginning a new exercise routine, you may have specific goals in mind. Maybe it’s to lose weight, build strength or improve your overall health. Stillman Brown, an outpatient physical therapist with Ascension St. John in Tulsa, says all exercise is good exercise, but depending on your goals, certain activities are better for the outcomes you desire.

your abdominals, but it’s much more than that. Simply put, imagine your body is a barrel. The sides of the barrel are wrapped in muscles – your abdominals, obliques and back extensors – and those need to be strong in order to support your trunk, hips and extremities when you get out of bed in the morning, walk to your car, lift something and so on.”

And he’s quick to point out that strengthening your core doesn’t just mean working toward a six pack for the pool.

“A physical therapist, athletic trainer or even a Google search for ‘deep core exercises’ can help you strengthen the deep, stabilizing muscles you need to prevent back and hip pain for the long haul,” he says.

When you’re wanting to improve your endurance in any activity, whether it’s cardiovascular or muscular, Brown says you simply have to do more of it consistently.

Strength, Balance & Endurance

“If you’re looking to increase your strength, then resistive training – with weights or just your bodyweight – is most efficient,” he says. “If you’re looking to increase your ability to walk, run, bike or swim longer, then cardiovascular training is the place to start. If you want to improve your balance, then balance-specific training is ideal.”

However, if you’re concerned about your balance, Brown says the best thing to do is see a physical therapist.

“We are specially trained to evaluate and help people improve their balance,” he says. “Balance arises from three different systems in your body: your vision, inner ear and the sensory nerves in your feet, and if there’s a deficit in any of those it can impair your balance overall.”

He adds the caution that if you’re one to try the trending balance exercises found on TikTok or YouTube – then be sure to be safe.

“Always practice balance with your hands hovering over something stable, like a countertop or the back of a sofa,” he says.

Brown also shares how cardio and strength training go hand-in-hand. He says being stronger helps your cardiovascular performance and being in better cardiovascular shape improves your ability to strength train – and strength and cardiovascular capacity both contribute to good balance.

“The foundation of a strong body is a strong core, but if you’re not already in the fitness or healthcare industry, there’s a lot of confusion about what the ‘core’ is,” he says. “Most people assume the ‘core’ is just

“That said, any time you increase your amount of exercise, be sure to listen to your body,” he says. “Soreness after a workout is okay. Pushing through pain to increase your endurance is never a good idea. A sudden increase in training volume, whether it’s the number of miles you walk every week or the amount of weight you’re lifting, can lead to overuse injuries. Increase bit by bit and don’t forget to take time to rest and recover.”

Flexibility

“Flexibility is an important part of fitness, particularly as we age,” says Brown. “With each decade of life, the soft tissues in our bodies gets stiffer and more rigid, and remaining flexible becomes important to maintain upright posture, good breathing and the ability to move, reach and do things.”

He says he’s not a big fan of static stretching – such as bending to touch your toes for 30 seconds – unless there’s a specific issue needing addressed.

“To maintain flexibility, I want people to do dynamic, gentle movements that bring them to the limit of their tissue length,” he says. “Things like yoga, elliptical, fitness classes or aquatics are perfect.”

Weight Loss

“I tell my patients every day: weight loss is about what you eat,” he says. “To burn off a typical 200-calorie donut, you would need to walk briskly for 45 minutes, jog for 25 minutes or bicycle hard for 20 minutes. Imagine that! Exercise can absolutely help you work out, but diet is the single most important factor.”

Brown says if you have any questions or concerns about reaching your physical goals, never hesitate to visit a physical therapist.

“Most people don’t realize you can refer yourself to a physical therapist without an order from your doctor and get treatment for up to 30 days,” he says. “We are always here to evaluate, advise and treat people to help them reach their physical potential.”

MENTAL HEALTH: WHAT WE KNOW Mental Illness

Good News: Progress & Research

While more Americans struggle with mental illness than ever, more people are also seeking help.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness reports an estimated one in five U.S. adults experience mental illness. Britta Ostermeyer, M.D., MBA, chief of psychiatry at OU Health in Oklahoma City, says this concerning statistic is actually nearing one in four.

“The numbers are alarming, because mental illness can have wideranging impacts on an individuals’ quality of life, relationships and overall well-being,” she says. “Additionally, the prevalence of mental health issues is expected to rise in the future, with more people likely to experience symptoms at an earlier age. Early intervention and increased access to mental health care will be essential in addressing this growing concern.”

Noting another distressing statistic, Ostermeyer says that U.S. suicide rates have increased nationwide by approximately 30% over the past two decades. Along with the urgent need for better early detection of mental health issues and improved access to mental health services, she says an equally important need is to reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness.

“Today, nearly every family is touched by mental health challenges, regardless of background or socioeconomic status,” says Ostermeyer. “Mental health conditions affect people from all walks of life, and we need to normalize these conversations. We need to talk about mental illness like we talk about diabetes and heart disease.”

She says depression and anxiety, in particular, have increased.

“The complexities and uncertainties of today’s world have made life especially challenging for youth,” she says. “We had to make it through the isolating and traumatic experience of the COVID-19 pandemic, along with ongoing global issues like war, climate change and economic instability. These challenges are contributing to the rise in mental health struggles among young people.”

Despite the increase in mental health issues, some good news is that more people are seeking mental health services, and there is greater openness about discussing mental illness, especially among younger generations.

“We’ve also made significant progress in the treatment of mental health and psychiatric disorders,” Ostermeyer says . “There are now more medications available of various types than ever before in history.

In addition to traditional medications, there are several innovative treatment options: treatment with Ketamine nasal spray or infusions, treatment utilizing electromagnetic waves using Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), and in very selective cases, the gold standard of psychiatric treatment, which is Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) –only utilized as a last resort for certain severe conditions and safely performed in a hospital setting with an anesthesiologist, who puts the patient to sleep. In addition, we have different types of psychotherapies that are very helpful when added to biological treatments of medications or Ketamine and interventional psychiatric treatments, like TMS or ECT.”

The Frontiers of Addiction

Ostermeyer adds that significant advancements have also been made in understanding and treating addiction.

“Addictions or substance abuse disorders are biological brain disorders, and there are several new treatments utilizing medications with conjunctive counseling to help manage cravings and facilitate abstinence from the drug the person is addicted to,” she says. “At OU Health, we have the CARES Clinic, which specializes in the treatment of addiction, offering a comprehensive approach to recovery.”

Set to open at the end of 2026, construction has begun on the OU Health Behavioral Health Center, which will provide critical mental health support for youth and families in Oklahoma.

“We are grateful to our Oklahoma legislators for making this important development possible,” says Ostermeyer. “It will bring muchneeded care, hope, and healing to the community.”

If you or a loved one are suffering from mental health issues, she encourages you to take advantage of available mental health services.

“The stigma surrounding mental illness has decreased significantly, and insurance now covers many mental health treatments,” she says. “Providers are more committed than ever to helping individuals, and there is now a wide range of effective medications and treatment options available as mainstream therapies. It’s important to seek help when needed – there are resources and support systems in place to assist everyone on their journey to better mental health.”

Sleep: How to Master the Art

Struggling with poor sleep can have a dramatic effect on one’s health. According to the National Institutes of Health, sleep deficiency is linked to many chronic health problems such as heart disease, kidney disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, stroke, obesity and depression.

In addition, the Centers for Disease Control reports that approximately one-third of U.S. adults don’t get enough sleep – with experts recommending between seven and nine hours a night for adults. To help you achieve a better night’s sleep, the National Sleep Foundation offers the following tips:

Go to sleep and wake up at the same time every day, including weekends.

Create a relaxing bedtime routine, such as listening to calming music, reading a book or taking a warm bath.

Make sure your bedroom is cool. Your body temperature naturally decreases to initiate sleep. A bedroom temperature between 60 and 67 degrees Fahrenheit helps promote sleep.

Make sure your bedroom is quiet – turn off noisy distractions and/or silence unwanted noise with earplugs or ‘white noise.’

Make sure your bedroom is dark.

Sleep on a mattress and pillows that are comfortable and supportive.

Finish eating meals 2 to 3 hours before bedtime.

Exercise regularly.

Limit the amount of caffeinated products you consume in the afternoon.

Alcohol and nicotine in your body can disrupt sleep and can cause nighttime waking. For optimal sleep, skip them close to bedtime or altogether.

The Importance of Dental Health

If you always brush your teeth on-the-go then you may not be meeting the recommendations by the American Dental Association (ADA). The ADA recommends brushing your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste for two minutes. To reach the two-minute mark, they say divide your mouth into four quadrants – top left, top right, bottom left, bottom right – and spend 30 seconds brushing each area. Flossing is also essential to your daily routine to remove the hard to reach plaque that builds up between teeth – which is the primary cause of gingivitis.

Maintaining good oral health can have long-term effects on your physical health. The Oral Health Foundation reports that bacteria from gum disease can enter the bloodstream and produce a protein which causes the blood to thicken, potentially resulting in an increased risk of heart attack.

In addition, having healthy teeth and gums can reduce one’s risk of certain cancers and dementia. According to the Oral Health Foundation, recent research shows that women between the ages of 54 and 86 with a history of gum disease were 14% more likely to develop cancer and individuals with healthy gums are 70 percent less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease than those who’ve suffered from gum disease for a long period of time.

The Importance of Hydration

Staying hydrated has become a trending topic with the variety of products available claiming to rapidly increase one’s hydration. Liquid I.V., for example, which comes in single-serve packets, boasts to contain three times the amount of electrolytes than the leading sports drink, and offer faster hydration than water alone. However, there’s much debate over the need for these additional water-enhancing products.

Approximately 60 to 70% of our body weight is water and it’s a critical component of our physical health, as it helps regulate body temperature, aids in digestion, protects body organs and tissues and promotes good kidney function. While there are exceptions based upon your age, body weight and environment, the general recommendations for fluid intake is nine cups of fluid a day for women and 13 cups of fluid for men. Healthier options when taking in fluid is to choose water or other low-calorie beverages. Many popular sports drinks, sodas and coffees contain an excess of sugar and can be high in calories. In addition, the general consensus of experts regarding the need for additional electrolytes depends upon your activity level.

Water should be fine to hydrate before, during and after low-tomoderate intensity activities lasting less than an hour. However, for highintensity activities that extend beyond an hour, consider grabbing your favorite electrolyte-enhanced beverage to stay hydrated.

OKLAHOMANS OF THE YEAR

To ensure any effort succeeds, a leader must emerge to pioneer the way. Someone intelligent and driven, but also kind, charismatic and trustworthy. Oklahoma has a multitude of such leaders –people who are passionate about our state and those within it. They are transforming Oklahoma through their work, whether it’s in healthcare, government leadership, law, education, tribal affairs or community development. We shine a spotlight on eight of these innovators, those who truly deserve the title of Oklahoman of the Year.

By Kimberly Burk, Gretchen Eichenberg & Tracy LeGrand

Bryan Warner Deputy Principal Chief, Cherokee Nation

The 17,000-square-foot space, currently under construction in Tahlequah, will fulfill its mission only if the right people are running it, Warner says, and the tribe has created a $5 million endowment to get people certified in behavioral health and substance abuse

“I’m a very human-centered individual,” Warner says. “I care

The Cherokee Nation’s new $18 million residential drug treatment facility is scheduled to open in late 2025. But if Deputy Chief Bryan Warner has his way, it will not open until it’s properly staffed. to get people certified in behavioral health and substance abuse disorders. about what happens to the individual.”

Modern facilities are great, Warner says, and multi-million dollar projects are going up across the reservation. But to fight substance abuse and mental health disorders, he says, “we need to make sure we are building state-ofthe-art . We want to spend less time treating diseases and more time building dreams.”

boardroom.” Warner is guided by his

When decisions are made about the wellbeing of tribal citizens, Warner says, “we take principles to the boardroom.” Warner is guided by his oath of office. He first became deputy chief in 2019 and was re-elected in 2023. When he took that oath, Warner swore that he would “do

everything within his power to promote the culture, heritage and traditions of the Cherokee Nation.” And all of that, he says, has its

roots in preserving the Cherokee language.

“It is the heart and soul of who we are as a people,” he says. “Losing the language would lose a vital part of our history.”

In a nation with more than 468,000 citizens, only about 1,500 first-language speakers remain. The tribe’s investment in language-learning programs and facilities is sweeping. For children, there’s an elementary immersion school, with ground recently broken on a middle school. And adults are paid to spend two years in a program where they study the language, all day,

every day.

Warner, a native of Sallisaw, is a former science teacher for whom all facets of education are a priority. Nearly 7,000 Cherokee citizens are studying with the help of undergraduate scholarships, and childhood development centers are being built or refurbished across eastern

citizens

Oklahoma.

When it comes to serving the needs of the Cherokee citizens, Warner and Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr.

answer their telephones, Warner says.

“The citizens can access their chiefs and tribal councilors pretty easily,” says Warner, “and they do it daily.” One result of those calls was a realization that cancer is a significant burden for the Nation, Warner says, which led to a partnership with the University of Oklahoma’s Stephenson Cancer Center. Tribal investment will bolster the center’s research efforts and allow for expansion into eastern Oklahoma.

into eastern Oklahoma.

Warner

Warner mentions one of his proudest achievements is getting to know Hoskin when the Principal Chief was secretary of state, and learning just how well the two work together.

Warner says they have made great strides in language revitalization.

great our language,” he we have to use it. I am extremely proud of

“We have to save our language,” he says. “But better than that, we have to use it. I am extremely proud of those efforts.”

- KB

Photo courtesy Cherokee Nation

Richard Lofgren President and Chief Executive Officer, OU Health

Richard P. Lofgren, MD, MPH, FACP, has been a physician, a researcher, a medical school faculty member and a health system administrator, but he’s always had the same goal.

“To build a better healthcare system,” he says. “We have a healthcare delivery system that’s incredibly clumsy.”

He aims to fix that. In 2022, Lofgren became the inaugural president and chief executive officer of OU Health, a unified academic health system of hospitals, clinics and centers of excellence.

He aims to fix that. In 2022, Lofgren became the inaugural president and chief executive officer of OU Health, a unified academic health system of hospitals,

“It’s one of the responsibilities of our academic health system to work on those issues,” he continues. “How can we make our care more accessible? When you are sick, you don’t want to focus on bureaucracy.”

Lofgren says he wants OU be healthcare

Lofgren says he wants OU Health to be the destination of choice for people who have complex, life-altering problems. Improved healthcare delivery

“is a significant need in our state,” he says. “We rank near the bottom in nearly every healthcare measure.”

Lifesaving and life-altering services need to be available to everyone in the state, regardless of geography and finances, he believes.

services need to be available regardless of geography and in state is delivered by our rural and regional hospitals,” he says. “Any care that can occur locally

“The backbone of care in our state is delivered by our rural and regional hospitals,” he says. “Any care that can occur locally should occur locally.”

Lofgren needs the right people. One of his proudest achievements

To make those goals a reality, Lofgren needs the right people. One of his proudest achievements so far is “assembling what I think is an outstanding leadership team. This is probably the most effective team I’ve had the opportunity to work with.”

Cancer care has always been a target area at OU Health.

“Our goal is to eliminate the scourge of cancer, and the best place to do that is with early detection and prevention,” he says. “We are doing mobile screening for lung cancer. We are looking at the northeastern part of Oklahoma, where almost none of the population participates

I’ve work cancer, detection prevention,” he says. “We are doing mobile screening for lung cancer. We are looking at the northeastern part of Oklahoma, where almost none of the population participates

in cutting-edge clinical trials. We need

Another area of pride, Lofgren says, is “what we’ve been able to do in terms of our cultural transformation: how we work and how we treat people.” In 2024, OU Health was named one of the nation’s top 150 places to work by , a healthcare publication.

“We focus on each team member’s career path,” he says. “When you come to OU Health, we want you to know there is a career

Looking ahead, Lofgren says the future of healthcare will be helped by artificial intelligence and a continued understanding of the human genome.

clinical trials.” OU is for you here.” will be much more We starting to see that actual genetic

“I’m fairly confident that healthcare will be much more customized to the individual needs of the patients. We are starting to see that in cancer, where we see actual genetic defects of cancer cells,” he mentions. However, in the midst of all the technology upgrades, Lofgren has a message for his trainees.

“I remind them still a very human - KB been

“I remind them that technology is really cool,” he says, “but healthcare is still a very human endeavor.”

Photo courtesy OU Health

Chris Anoatubby

Lieutenant Governor, Chickasaw Nation

The path to success is built on teamwork and small, deliberate steps toward economic development and diversification. That’s the philosophy of Chris Anoatubby, Lieutenant Governor of the Chickasaw Nation, who has served the tribe and advocated for its people for 30 years.

“I have been fortunate enough to witness firsthand how ideas can become reality,” Anoatubby says. “Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby first took office in 1987 with a plan to move toward financial independence, which could lead to self-funding of programs and services, and we could expand and improve them for the benefit of the Chickasaw people.”

A pharmacist by profession, Anoatubby takes a strong stance on healthcare and education. During his tenure thus far, Anoatubby has seen great strides in these sectors; the tribe opened the Chickasaw Nation Medical Center and Chickasaw Cultural Center in 2010, and last year, the Nation invested $32+ million in higher education grants and scholarships.

“We have partnerships with several state colleges and universities which aid us in offering resources and opportunities for Chickasaw students to connect with our culture and ensure our students are on a path to educational and personal success,” he says.

Last year, $422,648 was allocated to 49 public schools to serve the needs of Johnson-O’Malley eligible students. This federally funded program provides supplemental educational assistance to Native American students attending public schools. The tribe’s Child Care Assistance program also served more than 732 families, providing childcare to 1,393 children.

Increasing access to quality healthcare for the Chickasaw people is one of Anoatubby’s top priorities.

“Our mission is to enhance the overall quality of life of the Chickasaw people,” he says. “We have been able to directly define the scope of our care, as well, and look at strategies that include preventative and holistic healthcare.”

Efforts in that industry have been rewarded; in November, the Chickasaw Nation Department of Health earned the Malcolm Baldrige Award for Quality and Performance Excellence.

Ebony Johnson Superintendent, Tulsa Public Schools

Dec. 11, 2024, marked a major milestone for Ebony Johnson, Ed.D.: the one-year anniversary of her appointment as superintendent of Tulsa Public Schools. Her loved ones helped make it the perfect day.

“I went home after work and dinner was already fixed, and that was a great thing,” she says. “I was able to relax and just enjoy my family.”

Johnson laughs easily, and there’s joy in her voice when she talks about big life moments. The personal and the professional are often closely linked; with a son about to graduate college and a daughter finishing up high school, Johnson’s goals as a parent are in sync with her goals for the district: overcome barriers to academic achievement and graduate students who are ready to continue their studies and launch careers.

Mental health, she says, is one barrier. Johnson has seen an escalation in need since launching her career as a TPS classroom teacher in 1999. Adverse childhood experiences interrupt learning, “and traumatic experiences show up at anyone’s doorstep, not just our economically disadvantaged students,” she says.

“We are a district that understands that for academic excellence, we have to take care of the whole child.”

TPS has a three-tier system for helping such students: provide a safe and caring classroom, offer specialized support in areas such as coping skills and decision-making, and connect to community mental health counselors when needed.

Another issue Johnson and her team have zeroed in on absenteeism.

Continuing on the current trajectory to greater sustainability, as well as maintaining and building relationships, are Anoatubby’s areas of focus for the

relationships, are Anoatubby’s areas of focus for the future.

people,” Anoatubby says. “We will continue to

“Through continued investments in diverse and innovative business strategies, as well as infrastructure and resources, we will continue to expand and enhance the programs and services we are able to offer the Chickasaw people,” Anoatubby says. “We will continue to look for opportunities to work together with other organizations throughout our communities.”

Anoatubby’s plan? Persist in building upon the wins and continuing to invest in the people he serves. He’s quick to share the credit for this year’s many

the wins and continuing to invest in the people he serves. He’s quick to share the credit for this year’s many successes.

“We partnered with the mayor’s office for the Attend to Win campaign,” she says. “We put out surveys asking families to tell us how we can do better.”

stop, she mentions. Attendance this year is 2% better

One roadblock TPS and the city has worked to address is simply getting students to school safely. Kids have missed class after encountering stray dogs or being afraid to cross hazardous streets to get to the bus stop, she mentions. Attendance this year is 2% better than last year, and 8% better than two years ago.

the nation. We want to stand out among other urban districts.” Her wish is also for a district

“All those small steps that accumulate in a journey have been carried out by people who believed in what we were doing and had the knowledge and skill to move those ideas forward,” he says.

that accumulate in a journey have been carried out by people who believed in what and skill to move those ideas forward,” he says.

Peering into the future, Johnson has a goal for TPS “to be considered an exemplary district in the nation. We want to stand out among other urban districts.” Her wish is also for a district with outstanding student performance and high graduation rates, and one that will serve all populations of students “in the most optimal way.” Goals for 2025 include a high rate of completion of college financial aid applications and earlier completion of the Oklahoma’s Promise application – as soon as freshman year.

Teachers, Johnson says, also need nurturing.

“I am proud to be -

“I am proud to be a part of that.”

and every one deserves a quality

are changing every day in the classroom,” she says. “We

“There are 42,000 teachers in the state of Oklahoma, and each and every one deserves a quality work experience where they can be proud of the lives they are changing every day in the classroom,” she says. “We have monthly round-tables, where we ask them what we can do to help.”

- KB

TPS

Photo courtesy

Photo courtesy Chickasaw Nation

Jeanette Mendez

Provost and Senior Vice President, Oklahoma State University

Oklahoma State University provost and senior vice president Jeanette Mendez, Ph.D., has her finger on the pulse of what makes a college degree accessible for Oklahomans, and for students from around the country. Why? She is a first generation college graduate herself.

“I really do believe it’s my identity,” Mendez says of this designation. “It helps me remember what so many of our students are going through.”

About 30% of students at OSU are first gen college students, Mendez adds.

“I feel deeply about our land grant mission and providing an education to all and providing that access and affordability,” Mendez says. “I think it’s because I benefited from that myself. If I didn’t have the programs, if I didn’t have the scholarships, if I didn’t have the mentors, I certainly wouldn’t be where I am today.”

To that end, Mendez has worked with administrators and regents to keep costs in check and also identify funding where it benefits student programs.

“We put out a pretty ambitious strategy when president [Kayse] Shrum came into office,” she says. “We want to keep our costs low within the Big 12; we don’t want our students to accumulate a ton of debt. So we set some benchmarks of where we’d like to be, and we haven’t had tuition increases over the last few years.”

But Mendez acknowledges that keeping costs down indefinitely is a challenge.

“We have leaned into a lot of fundraising, expanding our scholarship opportunities, requesting certain programs from the legislature as well,” Mendez says. “It’s kind of a team effort. It’s taking all of us to get there. We’ve had really good partners with our foundation, our donors and with the legislature so that we can

Matt Pinnell

Lieutenant Governor of Oklahoma

As Oklahoma prepares to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Mother Road in 2026, Lieutenant Governor Matt Pinnell is leading the Route 66 Centennial Commission to shine a light on a state he truly loves – and spends each day celebrating.

Pinnell, dubbed Oklahoma’s ‘chief marketer,’ is also well-known for his passion in regard to increasing in-state tourism. In a partnership with the Oklahoma Departments of Commerce and Tourism and Recreation, Pinnell helped to curate the Live in OK campaign. Efforts included an updated website, liveinokla.com, with the friendly suggestion to ‘live the flyover life’ and ‘see why Oklahoma makes sense.’

“The point that I make when I’m speaking to groups or promoting the state is how blessed Oklahoma is in natural tourism advantages,” he says. “Because if we can get them to the state to see, we sell well, and we can lean into our history, as that is the front door to economic development.

2023 was the best on record to date for economic impact in tourism, he says. He attributes it in part to the film, television and music industries in the state and plans to increase the entertainment industry rebate that currently attracts big time productions.

“Our goal is to not just sustain but continue to up our game and attract even more visitors to the state next year,” he says.

taking all of us to get there. We’ve had really good partners with prioritize access and affordability.” and “by of school.

Another partnership Mendez values is that with K-12 schools, exposing students to how a college education can help them achieve success and personal fulfillment.

“We’re trying to put workers into the workforce and build the economy,” she says, “by showing kids and showing parents the kind of opportunities that exist after high school. Engineering is a great example. Women in STEM is something that we’re passionate about.

Women

Alongside tourism efforts, Pinnell, who is the president of the State Senate, is equally dedicated to those already living here. In 2024, the Oklahoma legislature invested funds into the Department of Career and Technology Education; Pinnell says this allows career tech centers “to provide more openings for working adults, and kids to get certificates to address the skills gap we have in this country. This means Oklahoma can leapfrog other states because our career tech system is better. We have this infrastructure across the state, most locally funded, which is a unique advantage.”

state, most locally funded, which is a unique advantage.” terms of workforce development and tourism, Pinnell

When looking ahead, Oklahoma will continue to grow in terms of workforce development and tourism, Pinnell says. The sky is, quite literally, the limit.

we’re passionate about. show no for you.”

We’re really trying to show students that there are no boundaries. There is a path

“Oklahoma will continue to further establish itself as an aerospace state,” says Pinnell. “Aerospace is one of the state’s fastest growing industries, along with defense industry contract work. This brings high paying jobs for our kids and grandkids right here inside the state.”

Retention and graduation rates are current areas of focus, Mendez says, and she’s attacking that with an overhaul of the university’s advising system to help students turn their passions into professions.

“There’s this sense of belonging and cohesiveness and that everyone really wants everyone to succeed,” she says. “And it just feels like

current and attacking that with an overhaul of the university’s and home.”

As chairman of the Route 66 Centennial Commission, Pinnell oversees all planning and committees, which includes the distribution of community grants to revitalize main streets along Route 66, alongside spiffing up roadside attractions and creating new ones, too.

As chairman of the Route 66 Centennial and committees, which includes the revitalize main streets along Route

“It’s not about just blowing out candles on a birthday cake; it is a celebration of revitalizing the 400-plus miles of Route 66 road in Oklahoma and in all the work we’re doing between now and the celebration,” he says.

To see what’s already been planned and what’s in the works for the centennial celebration, visit route66centennial.com.

- TL

Photo courtesy OSU

Photo courtesy Matt Pinnell

Lauren Von Founder and CEO, Quintessa Marketing

Empowering people to succeed and cultivating an environment of opportunity is what fuels the work of Lauren Von, founder and CEO of Quintessa Marketing based in OKC.

“You have to wake up every day and know that you’re doing something that has more impact than just for you and your family,” Von says. “When you know your purpose is for something so much greater than you, it motivates you and pushes you forward.”

That’s how she took her company – a retainer service for personal injury attorneys and law firms – from one representative in a 350-square-foot office to 175 employees who fill two and a half floors of a building in just eight years. While working for another company in the same industry, Von realized that leads were not converting to cases – and she knew why.

“They were paying [their reps] minimum wage,” Von says. “It didn’t make sense to me to pay someone minimum wage to handle a possible $1,000,000 case. I thought if I could pay my reps more and incentivize them to sign the right types of leads, they would be able to make more money and sign more cases.”

She was right. And as her profits climbed, Von says she felt led to bring others along the journey through “irrational generosity,” a phrase she heard at church.

One who wants to talk the talk and walk the walk, Von now donates 50% of her company’s profits annually to help others achieve success. Through this Give 50 initiative, Von is currently partnering with the OU Foundation to help first generation college students attend the Price School of Business. She has pledged

$6 million over the next five years. exciting.”

Jeff Stava

Chief Program Officer, George Kaiser Family Foundation

Jeff Stava has an unwavering drive to help create and operate world-class public spaces including Gathering Place, Guthrie Green, The Bob Dylan Center and the Woody Guthrie Center. The Tulsa native’s passion for downtown revitalization, economic development and neighborhood improvement projects is, after all, homegrown.

“Rooted in the mission of equal opportunity for all children, our civic efforts in place-making, arts, beautification, economic development and talent recruitment aim to build a city that offers accessible opportunities for every Tulsan,” says Stava, whose other leadership titles include chief operating officer for Tulsa Community Foundation and executive director of Gathering Place. “By creating spaces and initiatives that unite and inspire, we strive to enrich the community’s cultural vibrancy and ensure a sustainable, flourishing future for generations to come.

“From welcoming over 10 million visitors to the Gathering Place since its opening to hosting a combined 30,000 annual visitors at the Bob Dylan Center and the Woody Guthrie Center, I’m proud of our team’s contributions to Tulsa’s growth as a thriving cultural destination.”

While Stava was thrilled at Gathering Place’s designation as USA Today’s Best City Park of 2024, the work isn’t over on Riverside Drive. Major updates to the beautification projects include Williams Crossing Bridge, the new 1,400-foot pedestrian and biking bridge connecting Gathering Place, the Tulsa River Parks trails and west Tulsa neighborhoods, Stava says.

“Sometimes students need an extra $2,000 a year to help them get through,” she says. “I didn’t get to finish my degree, so knowing I can help someone else prevent that ... it’s really

Von has also committed $1 million to Infant Crisis Services, an organization that provides and diapers to struggling

essentials like formula Oklahomans.

The New York Times recently recognized Tulsa as one of the top U.S. cities for its design-forward civic infrastructure, spotlighting the crossing as a symbol of the city’s innovative spirit. Continued improvements are afoot, and in early 2025, Gathering Place will complete its final riverfront element – Lakeview Lawn and Rocky Point Overlook.

better place when they pass away, but I want to see it be a better place as we’re building and growing .”

“To me, it’s just amazing that we get to do this,” Von says. “A lot of people want to leave the world a better place when they pass away, but I want to see it be a better place as we’re building and .”

Von, who also speaks professionally on the topic of personal empowerment, encourages people to work hard and find their purpose.

“Together with Williams Crossing and the new river amenities, Tulsa is poised to offer a dynamic, rich riverfront experience for the first time in its history,” Stava says. “The City’s investment in the Zink Dam and recreational water flume further enhances the riverfront experience, allowing Tulsans to fully engage with the river like never before.

Von, who also speaks professionally on personal find “When tie thatand recreational water flume further enhances

Activities such as kayaking and paddleboating in Zink Lake, combined with walking and biking access along the pedestrian bridge, have made the area a vibrant destination for recreation and community connection.”

Looking ahead a few decades, Stava foresees ongoing civic leadership from GKFF and the continuation of the mission to enhance northeastern Oklahoma.

“When you can tie it to that purpose,” she says, “you’re unstoppable.”

“We are investing in a vibrant and inclusive

new businesses and diverse

“We are investing in a vibrant and inclusive Tulsa – one that boasts a thriving arts scene, inviting public spaces, new businesses and diverse talent,” he says. “These efforts will uplift the local economy, creating a more prosperous future for Tulsa’s children and families. By continuing to invest in initiatives that empower all Tulsans, we can ensure a stronger future for everyone.”

- TL

Photo courtesy Lauren Von Photo courtesy the George Kaiser Family Foundation

It’s no secret: January brings with it the postholiday blues. Families and friends return to their daily routines, Christmas decorations are stored away, and resolutions made during cheerier moments now feel a little unrealistic. We’ve all been there.

If you’re caught in the slumps, looking ahead might lift your spirits. The coming year is packed full of ground-breaking developments, exciting attractions and the return of beloved annual celebrations. Here’s a glimpse of what’s to come.

By Faith Harl

THINGS TO DO IN 2025

THINGS 2025

OKC Thunder; photo courtesy NBAE/Getty Images

Philbrook Museum

All photos courtesy the respective company/event unless otherwise marked

Paseo Arts Festival

Oklahoma State Fair

Peter Pan OKC Broadway; photo by Matthew Murphy

Les Miserables Celebrity Attractions; photo by Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade

The Historic Greenwood District

New Infrastructure & Developments

Last year, many new attractions made their mark on the Oklahoma landscape. An immersive exhibit opened at the National Cowboy & Heritage Museum, the Tulsa Wave Park at Zink Lake made ripples, and Cherokee Film Studios expanded to include a second soundstage and amenities.

The momentum will continue into 2025.

“We’re blessed to have exceptional municipal and tribal partners across the region,” says Mike Neal, president and CEO at the Tulsa Regional Chamber.

“The collaboration that we share is one of the major things that has

helped us grow so significantly.”

This spring, the OKANA Resort and Waterpark will welcome its first round of guests. The $400 million world-class resort features 404 rooms and suites, an indoor waterpark, a 4.5-acre lagoon, retail shopping, twelve vibrant culinary experiences and the fourth largest swimming pool in the country.

Both Oklahoma City and Tulsa are expanding their sidewalks to encourage pedestrian activity and accessibility. Downtown Tulsa is a hotspot for these efforts.

“Our new mayor and his administration want to create vibrancy downtown, so people want to live, work and play here,” says Renee McKenney, president at Tulsa Regional Tourism and senior vice president at the Tulsa Regional Chamber.

Construction for the Gilcrease Museum, which closed for renovations in 2021, will be near completion next year. The transformed museum is slated to reopen in 2026, and it will house the largest collection of Native American art in the world.

Developments along Route 66 are also in store.

“We [Tulsa] are now the

The resort will serve as a getaway for families and travelers, says Zac Craig, president of Visit Oklahoma City.

“This is going to be a true resort – and really our first resort – in Oklahoma City,” he shares.

“I think that it’s going to increase our market share… and drive new activity that we haven’t experienced in the past.”

Boasting 7,000 seats and first-class amenities, the OG&E Coliseum will open in April as a new destination for the Oklahoma City Fair. It will also be a site for sporting events and equestrian shows. David Todd, MAPS Program Manager, describes the facility as state-of-the-art.

“It’s brand new, very functional and spacious,” he says. “I’m confident people will be very pleased with it.”

official capital of Route 66,” says Jonathan Huskey, Tulsa Chamber’s director of communications. “With the 100year birthday of Route 66 [in 2026], there’s going to be lots of revitalization and innovation.”

The City of Tulsa has established grants to fund the installation of neon signs and murals along the route, as well.

Plans to build a retro-inspired motor court hotel, expand the OSU Medical Complex and open a convention-center hotel will further enhance the route and lead up to the historic anniversary.

“The whole state will really be opening its doors for a massive welcoming ceremony for travelers across the country and globe,” says Neal.

Wicked Celebrity Attractions; photo by Joan Marcus

Greenwood Rising

Red Earth Festival

OKANA Resort and Waterpark

OG&E Coliseum

Tulsa Tough

Tulsa Oktoberfest

Paseo Arts Festival

Concerts, Musicals, and Showcases

Oklahoma will welcome a diverse lineup of entertainment in 2025. From sporting events to famous musicals, there’s something to do all year-round.

Basketball fans can snag tickets to Thunder games and even see the Harlem Globetrotters at the Paycom Center. The center will also present standup acts from Tom Segura and Gabriel Iglesias, and the heavy metal band Disturbed.

Legendary PBR riders will show their skills on Jan. 24 - 25 at the BOK Center. The award-winning arena will also host Oilers hockey games and musical performances from Linkin Park and Toby Mac.

The Tulsa Symphony and Oklahoma City Philharmonic will bring classical and pop performances to their audiences. Productions include Symphonies of the East & West, The Music of Tina Turner, Tchaikovsky’s Romeo & Juliet, and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets in Concert.

OKC Broadway will showcase a new adaptation of Peter Pan in March, along with the Tony Awardwinning production Some Like It Hot in April. Celebrity Attractions will also bring popular musicals to Tulsa, including Les Miserables and Wicked

Perhaps the most anticipated musical of the year is The Outsiders: A New Musical. Based on the novel by Tulsa author S.E. Hinton, the Broadway show has won four Tony Awards. The cast and lead producer, Angelina Jolie,

visited the Outsiders House in Tulsa in 2024.

“The cast and crew fell in love with Tulsa,” says Neal. “From the time that they left in December, 67 mentions of Tulsa appeared in the musical in every single show.”

The Outsiders will launch its North American tour at the Tulsa Performing Arts Center in the fall of 2025.

“We can really show off our collaborative spirit to make this an event that no one will ever forget,” says Huskey. “It’s going to be bigger than anyone can imagine.”

Other Okie Goodness

If you just can’t wait to get out of the house, here are some ideas for endless entertainment to curb your post-holiday blues.

• Visit a museum. Get all the arts and culture you could ever need without traveling far at institutions like the First Americans Museum, Philbrook, the OKCMOA, Oklahoma Contemporary and the National Cowboy and Heritage Museum.

• Stop and smell the flowers. A tropical haven awaits at the Myriad Botanic Gardens, and the Tulsa Botanic Gardens offers a colorful rotation of seasonal blooms.

• Spectate a Civil War Demonstration. Historic spots

like the Honeyfield Springs Battlefield and Cabin Creek will be the grounds for reenactments.

• Take the family to a city park. Jungle gyms, see-saws and monkey bars are the perfect way for kids to burn off pent-up energy. For a truly fantastical experience, check out the award-winning Gathering Place in Tulsa.

• Shop until you drop. The OKC Outlet and Tulsa Premium Outlets offer discounted prices on designer goods. For secondhand goods and antiques, Jenks Main Street also has an array of boutiques.

• Encounter bison, deer, birds and other indigenous animals at one of Oklahoma’s wildlife refuges. Scenic spots include the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve in Pawhuska and the Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge near Lawton.

• Grab a bite to eat. Whether you’re craving a burger from a retro diner or an upscale culinary experience, Oklahoma is home to a bevy of renowned restaurants.

Tulsa Oktoberfest

Red Earth Festival

Peter Pan

Philbrook Museum

Tulsa Tough

Oklahoma State Fair Tulsa State Fair

Community Events

Throughout the year, dozens of festivals and gatherings take place. Here are some of the state’s most anticipated events in 2025.

Tulsa Tough (June 6–8)

Deemed a “three-day party on wheels,” Saint Francis Tulsa Tough is a bicycle race that routes through downtown Tulsa and draws a crowd of excited spectators. tulsatough.com

Oktoberfest (Oct. 16–19)

Voted the #1 Oktoberfest by USA Today, Zeeco Oktoberfest Tulsa celebrates Bavarian culture, bringing together German food, barrel races, a Dachshund dash and of course, plenty of bier. tulsaoktoberfest.org

Festival of the Arts (April 24–27)

Talented visual and performing artists create a vibrant marketplace of artisanal goods and crafts. artscouncilokc.com/festival-ofthe-arts

DeadCenter Film Festival (June 11–15)

Filmmakers screen documentaries, horror flicks and more at Oklahoma’s largest Oscar-qualifying film festival. deadcenterfilm.org

Tulsa IrishFest (March 7–9)

Tulsa IrishFest honors Celtic arts and culture by bringing together authentic fare, talented musical acts and family-friendly activities for one weekend. tulsairishfest.org

Juneteenth

(June 18–25)

Tulsa Juneteenth celebrates African American freedom from slavery with a themed threeday festival that includes food trucks, a 5K race and live music. tulsajuneteenth.org

Route 66 Marathon (Nov. 22–23)

Block parties and excitement abound as runners participate in a series of races along the historic Mother Road. route66marathon.com

Folds of Honor Freedom Fest (July 4)

Honor FreedomFest attracts more than 80,000 visitors every year, offering tasty grub, live music and a half-hour-long firework show. freedomfesttulsa.com

OKC Memorial Marathon (April 25–27)

In remembrance of the Oklahoma City bombing, thousands of runners put their best foot forward in this community-driven fundraiser, which includes a finish line festival in Scissortail Park. okcmarathon.com

Fiestas De Las Americas (Dates TBA)

Fiesta De Las Americas is Oklahoma City’s biggest Latino festival, featuring a spectacular parade, live entertainment, food trucks, a pop-up mercado and more. historiccapitolhill.com/fdla-1

Mayfest (May 9–11)

Mayfest is one of Tulsa’s longest running art festivals, featuring juried art competitions, food vendors and crafts galore in the Tulsa Arts District and Historic Greenwood. tulsamayfest.org

The Tulsa State Fair (Sept. 25–Oct. 5)

Featuring 11 days of livestock events, musical performances and more, the Tulsa State Fair has become a premier event, attracting 1.15 million people in 2017. tulsastatefair.com

Red Earth Festival (March 21–23)

Oklahoma City

Paseo Arts Festival (May 24–26)

Held every Memorial Day weekend, the Paseo Arts Festival showcases 90 juried artists, a food court and live music in the heart of the Paseo Arts District, helping raise funds for the Paseo Arts Association. thepaseo.org/festival

Oklahoma Regatta Festival (Dates TBA)

Water sport championships are the centerpiece of the Oklahoma Regatta Festival, and every race finishes with a fireworks show. riversportokc.org

In celebration of Native American culture, artists gather at the National Cowboy Museum to sell handmade goods, put on demonstrations and lead activities. redearth.org

Women’s College World Series (May 29–June 6)

Softball athletes compete in the 2025 NCAA World College Series, an event that is held in Devon Park and includes family-friendly attractions. usasoftball.com

Tulsa Oktoberfest

Tulsa State Fair

Wedding Planning from A-Z

You’ve

said

“I will,” but quite a bit needs to happen before you say “I do.” From finding the perfect venue to securing your cake, finalizing your guest list and perfecting that first dance, wedding planning is no joke.

offer a few tips and tricks to help you along the way.

By Mary Willa Allen

Planning: The Timeline

With so many things to do and little time to do it, your wedding check-list should be prioritized by importance, but also by urgency. Some items need to be tackled immediately, while others can sit on the backburner for a bit. The following is a suggested timeline.

A year or more in advance:

Determine your budget – This is crucial to ensure the rest of your planning goes smoothly. If you have wiggle room, determine how much. If others are helping you pay, get the hard numbers from them.

Select your wedding venue and date – Perhaps the most important part of your wedding journey is securing your location. Wedding venues are booking out literal years in advance, so jump on this activity immediately. Select your caterer – Like venues, caterers are busy – not only with weddings but private and corporate events, too.

This means it’s smart to jump on the booking early. Decide on your theme and colors – Your overall theme and wedding colors will set the tone for the rest of your planning, and make it easier to decide on things like your dress, bridesmaids attire, and flowers.

10-11 months out:

Shop for your wedding dress – It’s taking longer and longer for things to ship, and you don’t want to be left without a dress on your big day. Lock it down!

Determine your guest list – Knowing how many people you anticipate at your wedding will help tremendously as you finalize your menu, order alcohol and brainstorm party favors.

Book hotel blocks for your guests – This one’s especially important if you anticipate inviting a lot of people from out of town. You don’t want them crashing with you, right?

Hire your photographer, DJ and videographer – These vendors can only work one event an evening, so prioritize booking them early.

Take your engagement photos – Yay! A fun thing! P.S., you now have photos to put on all your wedding materials!

8-9 months out:

Create your wedding website – This is especially helpful for out-of-towners, but also increases excitement for your guests and allows them to start shopping for gifts. (More on that later.)

Send save-the-dates – Just like vendors book up quickly, so do friends and families with busy social calendars. Register for gifts – Take a break from all the logistics and start making a wish list!

Pick your bridesmaids dresses – And arrange fittings if necessary. You want your friends to look amazing, too! Find your florist – And start workshopping color schemes and bouquet ideas.

6-7 months out:

Lock down your rehearsal dinner venue – And brainstorm the menu. Fun fact: If you don’t want to deal with the logistics, the rehearsal dinner is often planned by parents or wedding party members.

Rent what you need – Whether that’s chairs, linens or a photobooth.

Hire your officiant – Dive into talking points and no-gos. Choose your baker – And schedule cake tastings.

4-5 months out:

Rent all transportation – Whether for yourself and your spouse-to-be or for guests who may need to be shuttled between the venue and the hotel.

Book your honeymoon – And start making your itinerary, whether that’s seeing world-famous museums or just lying by the beach all day.

Buy wedding bands – And get a little emotional when you do. Lock down groomsman attire – Make sure the dudes are looking fresh.

2-3 months out:

Schedule your makeup and hair trials – And make sure you truly love what they’ve created for you. Send invitations for the wedding and rehearsal dinner –And see the RSVPs roll in.

Write your vows – If you want them personalized, of course. Remember, this may take more than one sitting!

1 month or less out:

Pick up your marriage license – Social media post required. Finish your wedding playlist – And make sure it’s boogylicious.

Have your last wedding dress fitting – And snap plenty of photos for your gals.

Pay all your vendors – And allot for tips, too. Break in your wedding shoes – This goes for the girls as well as the guys. New shoes, whether six-inch heels or loafers, can lend themselves to blisters.

Week of:

Do your pampering – Whether that’s a spray tan, manicure/ pedicure or a blow-out.

Deliver final headcounts – And ensure everyone at your venue is ready for the big day.

Practice your vows – Bonus points if you can get through them without crying.

Try to relax – All the major logistics are handled. Get some sleep, hydrate and prepare for the biggest party of your life!

Trend Forecast

What’s in, what’s out, what’s semi-acceptable but a little cringy when it comes to 2025 weddings? It seems to change every few weeks... but here are a few wedding trends that are holding steady into the new year:

Surprise, Surprise

We’re bringing a bit more spectacle to weddings this year. For example, you may have seen some risk-tasker brides online cutting off the bottoms of their gowns for the reception –or even chopping their locks before they head into the big celebration post-ceremony. Additionally, couples are inviting friends and family to a supposed engagement party, only for it to be the wedding itself. Surprises are in, folks!

Stricter Dress Codes

No, this doesn’t mean everyone has to wear a ballgown or a tuxedo. Instead, couples are often requesting that guests wear a certain color palette or follow a certain theme to supplement an overall aesthetic. Think “shades of green” on the wedding invite instead of just “formal.”

Serpentine Tables

Similar to a banquet table, a serpentine table is extra long, but also winding. It seems these tablescape types are trending for outdoor nuptials for 2025, especially for smaller, more intimate weddings.

Reworking Wedding Parties

Brides and grooms are reconfiguring their wedding parties. Some are slimming down the number of members or cutting them completely, others are having them sit down during the ceremony, some are having the wedding parties switch sides

so they have a better vantage point of their bestie during the wedding.

Bringing in the AI

Love it or hate it, artificial intelligence is helping couples streamline their planning. AI can assist in crafting feasible timelines, tracking budgets, creating communications with vendors, and even refining wedding themes.

Wedding Themes to Consider

If you’re looking for a theme for your wedding, read on. Not only do themes set the tone of your celebration, they also help exponentially when it comes to planning, from color schemes to food choices and even your playlist. Some popular wedding themes you may want to consider include:

Fashion-forward: If you love following the trends and remaining at the height of fashion, let your wedding reflect that – from your wedding dress and tuxedo choices to bridesmaids dresses, quick-changes between the ceremony and reception, to your guest dress code.

Eco-friendly: Let’s face it, weddings can be wasteful. To counteract that, some couples decide to put their sustainable mindsets at the forefront of their celebrations. This can look like repurposed florals, recycled materials for the invitations, or an antique wedding dress.

Nature-inspired: Earth-tone palettes, florals galore, abundant greenery, and an outdoor venue all help lend themselves to a nature-inspired wedding.

Micro-weddings: If you’re looking to save money while remaining on-trend, micro-weddings are all the rage. Small, intimate gatherings with close family and friends, as opposed to large bashes, help to focus on what matters: enduring love between two people.

Minimalist: Different from micro-weddings, minimal weddings can still involve plenty of people. But the design of a minimalist wedding evokes words like sleek, elegant and understated. The concept of ‘less is more’ is at play here, allowing couples to invest in higher quality items with less volume.

Guest Etiquette: What to Know

You often hear horror stories of wedding guests acting inappropriately at a celebration under the guise of not knowing any better. That excuse won’t fly in 2025, so let’s break down some etiquette rules of thumb to follow.

Do:

• RSVP on time, and only RSVP for the number of guests you’re allotted. You will know if you have a plus one. If you don’t, don’t ask for one.

• Arrive 20 minutes prior to the ceremony. You should not be rolling up the venue at the time on the invitation; that’s when the ceremony starts. Give yourself ample time to find a seat and get comfortable.

• Follow the dress code. And if you’re confused about what to wear, check the wedding website. If you don’t get answers there, consult your good friend Google.

• Stay off your phone. We promise you don’t need blurry shots of the ceremony from the back row; the couple paid for a photographer for a reason.

• Be considerate of religious or cultural aspects. Maybe you aren’t religious, or don’t come from the same cultural background as the couple. You are there to celebrate them, which means respecting their beliefs.

Don’t:

• Wear white I mean, honestly, guys, this should be a nobrainer at this point. This also means cream, or any iteration of white. If it photographs white, try something else.

• Expect a long conversation with the bride and groom Yes, you should certainly get a hello and a thank you. But the couple needs time to enjoy the big day, too.

• Skip the ceremony in favor of the reception, or vice versa. Unless you have an excellent reason for missing one or the other, just commit your evening to this couple and their wedding.

• Overindulge. An open bar can be tempting, especially if you’re kid-free for the evening. That said, be gracious and socialize responsibly. And, if you do drink too much, make sure you have a ride arranged.

• Leave too early. While you may need to relieve the babysitter or it may just be past your bedtime, remember that the couple put a lot of work into their wedding, and chose you to celebrate it with. Traditionally, guests should at least stay until the cake cutting, or through dinner.

SAY YES TO HARD ROCK.

When you get married at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino it will be as memorable for your guests as it will be for you.

Contact the sales and catering office today to book your wedding reception and/or hotel rooms for your out-of-town guests: 918.384.7462

Feeling Inspired

No matter what kind of dress you desire – modern, traditional, whimsical or otherwise – designers around the globe can help you find what you love.

Clockwise from upper right: Galia Lahav Reverie; photo by Carlos Teixeira Berta, Maggiore Collection

Oscar de la Renta

All photos courtesy the designer unless otherwise marked

Alon Livne White

Elisabetta Franchi x Pronovias

Anne Barge; photo by Laura Gordon

Esé Azénabor

Arava Polak; photo by Dudi Hasson

Esé Azénabor

Badgley Mischka; photo by Gabor Jurina

Galia Lahav Reverie; photo by Carlos Teixeira

Berta Eclipse

Galia Lahav Suivez-Moi; photo by Carlos Teixeira

Elisabetta Franchi x Pronovias

Galia Lahav Suivez-Moi; photo by Carlos Teixeira

Pronovias

Ines Di Santo

Pronovias

Ines Di Santo

Pronovias

Jenny Yoo

Bridal; photo by Marcy Castelgrande Lee

Sassi

Holford

Monique Lhuillier; photo by Jose Villa

Vera Wang Bride x Pronovias

Monique Lhuillier; photo by Jose Villa

Vera Wang Bride x Pronovias

Oscar de la Renta

Heaven in a Slice

A beautiful and delicious wedding cake is the cherry on top of the perfect day.

All photos courtesy the respective bakery

Cupcakes by Lu, Tulsa

You Need A Cake, Edmond

Andrea Howard Cakes, OKC

Rosebeary’s Bakery, OKC

Quincy Bakeshop, OKC

Cake Palate Designs, Tulsa

All Things Cake, Tulsa

Amy Cakes, Norman

The Power of Flowers

Oklahoma florists help true love bloom.

All photos courtesy the respective florist

Toni’s Flowers and Gifts, Tulsa

Penelope & Lu, Broken Arrow

Pure Deliciousness

Oklahoma caterers bring all the flavors – and the aesthetics – for the perfect wedding feast.

All photos courtesy the respective caterer unless otherwise marked

Charcuterie board; Andolini’s Catering, Tulsa

Il vero Alfredo; Prossimo Ristorante, Tulsa

Sliced pork loin, chicken piccata, braised short ribs, assorted small bites; Justin Thompson Catering, Tulsa; photo by Valerie Wei-Haas

Fruit skewers; Quail Springs Culinary, OKC

Taco wraps; Quail Springs Culinary, OKC

Assorted smorgasbord; Chef’s Touch Catering, Tulsa

Puffy tacos; Elote, Tulsa

ITR sushi platter; In the Raw, Tulsa

GET MARRIED AT OKLAHOMA CONTEMPORARY

Congratulations on your engagement!

Oklahoma Contemporary provides unique indoor and outdoor spaces and cutting-edge exhibitions — an always artful complement to your guests’ experience. Visit okcontemp.org/weddings to reserve your special date!

Photo: Brett Heidebrecht Photography

Candlelit Swoons & Honeymoons

Not sure where to venture after the big day? We offer a few suggestions.

Santorini, Greece

From your whitewashed, blue-domed house high above the Aegean Sea, the sunsets are spectacular. Santorini is the quintessential Greek island combining classic architecture, art and food with romantic settings worthy of Bogart and Bacall.

Go horseback riding along the volcanic coastline, catch a catamaran dinner cruise, enjoy wine tastings with tapas, visit secluded black sand beaches, and stroll the narrow winding streets of Emporio with its charming cafes and fragrant bougainvillea.

The art scene is up close, showcasing galleries that in many cases are also artists’ studios, allowing conversation and interaction involving sculpture, ceramics and paint.

The Akrotiri Lighthouse on Santorini’s southwestern tip combines the two colors most prominent on the island, dazzling white and azure blue. Climb the stone steps for as-faras-the-eye-can-see views.

Just for fun, head to Fira, Santorini’s capital built into jagged cliffs overlooking the Aegean. Historic churches, intriguing museums and vibrant nightspots await.

Stay in a Jacuzzi-equipped suite at the Kokkinos Villas Santorini. Seaview terraces come with sun-loungers and parasols.

Phuket, Thailand

This mountainous island in southern Thailand boasts legendary food venues, miles of gorgeous beaches and rich cultural heritage.

Santorini, Greece

Sukhothai historical park, Sukhothai, Thailand

Phuket (poo-KET) soothes the senses with breathtaking vistas and delightful topography complemented by the fascination of Old Phuket Town, a diverse walkable conglomeration of brightly-painted Chinese, Indian, European and Muslim museums, shops, boutique hotels and restaurants.

Guides are anxious to show you James Bond Island, a rocky pinnacle featured in the flick The Man with the Golden Gun. Nearby, the small village of Koh Panyee juts out into the sea, built on stilts and guarded by a huge rock monolith.

The island has its own cultural theme park, the 30-acre Phuket FantaSea, spotlighting the island’s multi-level history through technology and special effects. If you love the nightlife, check out Koh Phi Phi at Tonsai Beach.

Stay at Amanpuri on Phuket’s west coast. The plush hotel presents visitors with 40 polished teakwood pavilions accompanied by spacious bathrooms that are more like spas.

Cook Islands

Just east of the dateline in the Pacific Ocean, the 15-isle Cook Islands sport a strong Polynesian culture flavored by white sand beaches, palm trees, clear waters and a surprising array of marine animals.

Shop for black pearl jewelry, dazzling sarongs, woven hats and finely-made quilts known locally as tivaevae.

The real star of the show, though, is the Pacific. Caves on several islands are ripe for explorers to discover their ancient limestone coral formations. Cruise to One Foot Island where green turtles, giant clams, clownfish and large trevally swim the warm waters.

Stay down on the beach in one of the Pacific Resort’s bungalows at Aitutaki. Wide verandas are adorned with colorful local artwork.

OKLAHOMA WEDDING

The Caribbean has nothing on the Cote in terms of wide, sandy beaches, ranging in color from gold to white. Many are fringed with swaying coconut palms.

Primates, mongoose and pygmy hippos populate Tai National Park over on the border with Liberia. In the center of the country, the massive Basilica Notre Dame de la Paix lays claim to having the most stained glass in the world, nearly 80,000 square feet.

A stunning bridge connects two parts of Abidjan along the coast, the nation’s largest urban center, affording walkers outstanding city views and colorful evening light shows.

Stay at the Hotel Tiama in the heart of Abidjan. Book a poolside suite and enjoy the hotel’s specialty, breakfast in bed.

Côte d’Ivoire

Every chocolate bar sold worldwide contains ten percent Ivorian cocoa. At farms where the beans are raised, chocolate lovers see first-hand the transition from bean to bar.

Sandwiched along the Atlantic between Liberia, Guinea and Ghana where Africa makes a left turn, the Cote d’Ivoire is still decidedly French. The Ivory Coast’s name is a salute to the country’s robust trade in elephant tusks during the 17th century.

Palma de Mallorca

Two hundred miles east of Valencia, Spain, in the gorgeous waters of the Mediterranean Sea, lie the four enchanting Balearic Islands, long time a refuge for Europeans seeking the sun, beaches and a simpler lifestyle. The largest city is Palma.

Bellver Castle dating back to the 14th century adorns a prominent hillside; the magnificent Palma Cathedral, built in 1229, stands watch over the sea and entices with views from the bell tower; and right next door is the official residence of the ruling Spanish family, the Royal Palace of La Almudaina. The architecture is resplendent stone Gothic with a touch of Moorish.

Down along the waterfront, the narrow streets and alleys of Old Town (Casco Antiguo) lead to parks and squares. Along the way are eclectic shops, cozy taverns, extraordinary restaurants and art galleries.

Stay at the adults-only Hotel Can Cera in the historic center of Palma, once a 17th century palace and now filled with antiques and high-design features. Relax on the rooftop terrace, enjoy the spa and then take in the vermuteria-style eatery where vermouth is the order of the day.

CHUCK MAI

Rarotonga, Cook Islands

Bay of Cala Figuera, Majorca, Spain

Time to Shine

Whether you’re in the wedding or a guest, make sure to nail that dress code.

All photos courtesy the designer

GUESTS

BRIDESMAIDS

Monique Lhuillier

FOOD, DRINK AND OTHER PLEASURES

Rising to the Occasion

A new fine dining spot in Tulsa’s Utica Square, Rise, offers up soufflés galore.

Hedda Gioia Dowd was born in Texas, born a dreamer, and born with a love of France. Her grandmother lived in the sun-kissed south of that country; Dowd spent her childhood summers there. Her grandmother was a fine cook, and Dowd's favorite dish was what some consider the apex of French cuisine, the soufflé.

Like Proust, Dowd has made a life and career of recapturing her childhood memories and sharing them with the world. She founded an antiques business, which meant that she could spend happy months prowling the dusty attics of chateaux and farmhouses in southwest France. Later, in Dallas, she met a Frenchborn chef, Cherif Brahmi, and together they opened a restaurant specializing in

soufflés. Now, she’s brought her dream to Tulsa.

There’s a two-hundred-year-old carved wood door on a building at the northeast corner of Utica Square. Walk through, and you’re in a space decorated with whimsy and panache. Little twinkling lights, French bistro chairs, real antique silver on the tables. That’s Rise.

At the far end, you can see a big, modern kitchen crowded with very busy chefs. Standing to one side, leading like an orchestra conductor, is executive chef Jake Robison.

Robison grew up in Kellyville. When he was a small boy, he recalls, “Grandma made the Sunday dinner, and I’d sit on the counter and watch her.”

He started cooking at home by the time he was thirteen. After college, he was working at the Mayo Hotel as a bartender.

A wealthy patron wanted his dinner and the chef was sick, so Robison cooked it. He did such a good job that the hotel hired him as a line cook, and he worked his way up to the top spot in the kitchen. Later, he became chef de cuisine at another lauded fine dining spot in Tulsa, Juniper. And then, one day, he saw a wanted ad for a chef, and that’s what led him to Rise.

Making a soufflé – that glorious concoction of dreams, sauce, egg and air – isn’t easy; it even took Julia Child 28 attempts before she got it right. At Rise, they start, as most classic French recipes do, by making a roux from butter and flour, then blending in milk, and later cheese (emmental and gruyere) and a hint of nutmeg, making a Mornay sauce. It’s put in individual dishes and then the distinctive meats of each souffle are added.

A mixer beats egg whites to a soft peak,

There are a variety of sweet and savory soufflés at rise. Pictured above is the cranberry iteration. Photos courtesy Rise

which is then hand-stirred into each individual dish. Then it’s put in a very hot oven and baked. When it’s ready, the gleaming golden masterpiece is rushed to your table.

There are quite a few soufflés available. Robison’s favorite is the crab. It’s not on the menu, but it’s always available. You have to know to ask for it. The crab is mixed with roasted red pepper and shallots. Other ingredients include chipotle purée, chive brunoise, thyme and garlic Boursin cheese.

Another popular item is the ham and

Tiny Bubbles

Nestled in the Shoppes at Northpark in OKC, Tiny Bubbles is a hidden gem destination for wine, craft cocktails, pizza, shared plates and brunch goodies.

Let’s start with the restaurant’s namesake, shall we? Bubbles! There’s prosecco on tap, alongside a wide range of champagnes and sparkling wines. Browse among nearly 20 whites, plus rosés, oranges and reds. Signature cocktails abound, too. Sip on the Margherita Margarita, with Azteca Azul blanco tequila, Aperol, amaretto, blood orange and lime, or the Girls Just Want to Have Fun, with citrus vodka, winter spiced simple syrup and lambrusco. If you’re feeling whimsical, build your own spritz – you pick the flavors, they’ll add the prosecco and soda.

But you shouldn't enjoy all those bubbles without a bite to eat. Shared plates range from seared tuna with chimichurri to hummus, burrata, smoked salmon dip and beef kofta skewers. Thin-crust pizzas are a highlight as well; enjoy classics like pepperoni and margherita or go a bit off the beaten path with the Shrimp Scampi – replete with white sauce, fontina, cherry tomatoes, toasted breadcrumbs and grilled lemon. Or try a hearty salad, with classics like Caesar, house and chopped.

Brunch has its own goodies to nosh, like the mushroom toast, with whipped mascarpone, sautéed mushrooms, fresh Parmesan and chives on sourdough. Head to the sweet side with the Dutch Baby, replete with sweet whipped mascarpone, strawberries, bananas, mint and maple syrup. You can also go classic with the Tiny Bubbles breakfast: two eggs, bacon, sourdough and jam. Brunch also boasts its own cocktails, from Brunch Punch (rotating mimosas), to the Buy Myself Flowers, with spiced vodka, lemongrass simple, lemon juice and prosecco.

Don’t forget dessert. Indulge in five flavors of gelato, crème brûlée cheesecake or a cold brew affogato.

Noche

One of the hippest restaurants in Tulsa, Noche brings ambiance, delicious drinks and authentic Mexican cuisine in equal measures. You’ll hear Noche before you see it – the restaurant, on the ground floor of the Vast Bank building downtown, is often bumping music to add to the festive atmosphere. Noche is, after all, inspired by the sights, sounds and cuisine of Mexico City.

cheese soufflé. There are dessert options, too. The process is slightly different and the sauce uses creme patissiere (like whipped cream), not cheese. Robison thinks the best is the pecan, with roasted pecans from Texas, Madagascar vanilla extract and crumbled shortbread. But there are a lot to choose from, and you can’t go wrong with any.

You’re taking a friend who just doesn’t like soufflé? Don’t despair. They have French onion soup that takes four hours to make, a lovely steak with green beans, tuna steaks, sandwiches, salads and more. Because they want everyone to leave happy – and you will.

BRIAN SCHWARTZ

Begin with totopos, or snacks, including housemade guacamole, ahi and avocado tostadas or tlayuda – crispy corn tortillas covered with refried beans, meat and cheese. Soups and salads are ideal for those craving lighter fare. Try the pozole, birria ramen, or the chopped salad with avocado, cucumber, sweet potatoes, tortilla strips and your choice of beef tenderloin, chicken or shrimp.

The wood-fired fajitas are a star at Noche. Options range from marinated chicken or steak to shrimp, mushroom/sweet potato and short rib. Another entrée stand-out is the Yucatan-style pork shoulder, served with golden rice, black beans, pickled red onions and avocado-tomatillo salsa. For seafood enthusiasts, try the Trout-a-la-Veracruzana, with salsa veracruz lime and golden rice. On a date? The ribeye for two is just the ticket, complete with potatoes, refried beans, flour and corn tortillas, plus a salad.

Noche, also open for lunch and brunch, is a great place to grab a cocktail; the circular bar is a hot-spot for Tulsa’s movers and shakers. Drink options include classic margaritas, plus plenty of beers and wines. Cocktail classics like Ranch Water and Palomas can be found on the menu, as well as craft creations like the Hotel Nacional, with rum, apricot liqueur, lime, pineapple syrup and bitters.

MARY WILLA ALLEN

Seafood enthusiasts should try the crab soufflé. Other savory options include smoked salmon and creamed spinach.

The marshmallow soup is a popular starter at Rise. The carrot and tomato bisque comes with goat cheese 'marshmallows.'

Photo courtesy Tiny Bubbles

Photo courtesy Noche

A Man on the Go

Mike Clark, who works for seafood staple the Drake and the OKC Thunder, balances many plates. Literally.

You have to move quickly if you want to catch Mike Clark for a chat. He’s busy, after all. The New Orleans native is often found creating innovative dishes and entire menus as chef de cuisine at the Drake, one of OKC’s most popular seafood restaurants, helmed by A Good Egg Dining Group. That, and he’s also the head chef for the OKC Thunder thanks in part to their partnership with A Good Egg.

Cheevers Catering, then eventually became chef at the Drake,” he says. “And now I’m with the Thunder.”

Cooking for world-class NBA athletes is a balance of creativity and taste, with an emphasis on nutrition, Clark says.

“It’s been fascinating to focus so much on the nutritional side of cooking,” he shares. “It’s all about what certain foods do for your body, and at what times, such as in recovery, in mitigating injury. There’s so much to sports nutrition and it’s really cool to learn – not to mention just being

Like many talented chefs, Clark says great food – and great cooking – have been part of his life from the beginning.

“Both of my folks were really big influences on the cooking part of my life,” Clark shares. “They’re not professional chefs, but they always cooked a lot, and we ate out in New Orleans for over thirty years as a big part of our family life to experience different cultures and foods.”

Clark was working in Austin, Texas, when his wife got a job at Chesapeake Energy, now Expand Energy Corp, in 2012.

“I didn’t know about the state and just applied and started at Republic, then

around these superstar athletes and watching them grow. It’s a cool moment to realize that nutrition can help extend the longevity of the career of an athlete by eating right.”

Clark, an ambitious man, says there will always be new goals to reach. 2025, he says, is all about “taking on more responsibility by networking with other chefs in the NBA,” he says. “We’re working on a sort of chef’s summit so that we can continue to share experiences, optimize and help each other grow programs across the league.”

Back at the Drake, Clark is on a mission to help landlocked Oklahoma diners appreciate seafood.

“It’s all about incorporating ingredients that are familiar to them in the dish,” he says. “For example, you can utilize tomatoes in a chutney. Being familiar is what drives most people to try something new like seafood.”

The Drake, an OKC culinary staple, has plenty of gems on the menu.

“I like all the fresh fish options as it’s just fun to work with,” Clark says. “Fresh fish can work with any type of cuisine and it’s a worldwide resource.”

Unlike many chefs who hang up the apron when they get home, Clark enjoys cooking for his family.

“In cold weather, the go-to dish I really like is a curry, whether Thai or Indian,” he says. “It has the warmth and the spices and the flavor. I just made that the other night!”

TRACY LEGRAND

Mike Clark says that while cooking for the OKC Thunder basketball players, he’s learned more about how “nutrition can help expand the longevity of the career.”

Photos courtesy A Good Egg Dining Group

Where & When

GREAT THINGS TO DO IN OKLAHOMA

EVENTS LISTED ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE. CHECK

INDIVIDUAL WEBSITES FOR UPDATES.

IN TULSA Performances

Elvis at 90: Travis

Ledoyt Jan. 8 Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Tulsa See the lauded Elvis impersonator live. hardrockcasinotulsa.com

An Evening with Steve Trevino Jan. 9 River Spirit Casino Resort Comedian Steve Treviño is “America’s Favorite Husband.” He can “speak wife fluently,” and uses his brand of humor to make audiences of all ages giggle. riverspirittulsa.com

Theatre Tulsa presents: Oliver! Jan. 10-26 Tulsa PAC Experience the timeless tale of Oliver! as a young orphan navigates the gritty streets of Victorian London, encountering colorful characters and unexpected twists on his quest for belonging and survival. theatretulsa.com

Tulsa Symphony presents: Wagner's Tristan and Isolde Jan. 11 Tulsa PAC Immerse yourself in the majestic flow of Smetana's The Moldau, feel the intensity and passion of Wagner's "Prelude and Liebestod" from Tristan und Isolde and experience the powerful dynamism of Nielsen's Symphony No. 4. tulsasymphony.

org Celebrity Attractions

presents: Les Miserables Jan. 21-26 Tulsa PAC Set against the backdrop of 19th century France, Les Mis tells an enthralling story of broken dreams and unrequited love, passion, sacrifice and redemption – a timeless testament to the survival of the human spirit. This epic and uplifting story has become one of the most celebrated musicals in theatrical history. celebrityattractions.com

Signature Symphony presents: Pictures

Reimagined Jan. 25 TCC Van Trease PACE Prepare for a dazzling spectacle of sight and sound as Perpetual Motion Dance joins the Signature Symphony for jaw-dropping feats by Oklahoma’s finest aerial flyers and dancers. The second half will showcase Modest Mussorgsky’s epic Pictures at an Exhibition, which musically represents different works of art and will be presented here with a unique Tulsa twist. signatuesymphony.org

TPAC presents: Time for Three Jan. 27 Tulsa PAC Grammyand Emmy-winning ensemble Time For Three (TF3) defies conventions with their genre-bending excellence.

PERFORMANCE

Kicking Off 2025

If your New Year’s resolution is to get more involved in the arts in Oklahoma, we have you covered.

LES MISÉRABLES

In Tulsa, support local by visiting Theatre Tulsa’s Oliver! at the PAC, running Jan. 10-16. Stick around the venue for Wagner’s Tristan and Isoldes, courtesy Tulsa Symphony, on Jan. 11. One of the world’s most beloved musicals, , returns to Tulsa courtesy Celebrity Attractions from Jan. 21-26; you won’t want to miss this enthralling story of broken dreams, unrequited love, passion, sacrifice and redemption at the PAC. And the PAC Trust brings Time for Three – a Grammy- and Emmy-winning violin/bass ensemble – on Jan. 27. If Tulsans haven’t gotten their fill, head to the TCC Van Trease PACE on Jan. 25 for Signature Symphony’s Pictures Reimagined, which offers aerial flyers and dancers courtesy Perpetual Motion Dance alongside the local musicians you know and love.

At the Civic Center Music Hall, OKC Phil is staying busy with three performances in January. First ister Plays Grieg on Jan. 11, with Gerard Schwarz as guest conductor with Misha Dichter on piano. Then comes Music of the Knights on Jan. 24-25, which highlights the works of Sirs Andrew Lloyd Webber, Elton John and Paul McCartney. Lastly, and perfect for the whole family, is As Heard on TV on Jan. 26; the orchestra will play some iconic tunes from television, movies and video games. At Armstrong Auditorium in Edmond, performances include Celtic Throne II – a collaboration between Armstrong Dance and Herbert W. Armstrong College – on Jan. 12 and 19, as well as Boston Brass and Imani Winds on Jan. 28.

Around the state, visit Broadway in Bartlesville’s Pretty Woman the Musical, Jan. 6 at the Bartlesville Community Center; and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Jan. 23-24 at Stillwater’s McKnight Center for the Performing Arts.

Comprised of Charles Yang (violin, vocals), Nicolas Kendall (violin, vocals) and Ranaan Meyer (double bass, vocals), the uniqueness of the trio’s instrumentation well matches their sound, which blends eras, styles and traditions from classical to Americana to singer-songwriter. tulsapac.com

Concerts

Hangover Ball Jan. 1 Cain's Ballroom Hangover Ball 2025 features BJ Barham, Wade Bowen, Cody Canada, Evan Felker, John Fullbright, Robert Earl Keen, Mike McClure, Jamie Lin Wilson and special guests Elle Gorman, Elysha LeMaster, Shelby Stone and Graycie York! cainsballroom.com

Mark Chesnut Jan. 10 Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Tulsa The country singer visits the Hard Rock. hardrockcasinotulsa.com

School of Rock Jan. 12 Cain's Ballroom The performance based music school, School of Rock, helps students have fun learning the fundamentals in private instruction and gain confidence up on the stage. cainsballroom.com

Air Supply Jan. 16 River Spirit Casino Resort If it's true that practice makes perfect, then

Graham Russell and Russell Hitchcock – beloved by their millions of fans across the planet as Air Supply – have had nearly half a century to hone their skills, harness their passion and unleash the beautifully intimate yet rockin’ romantic energy. riverspirittulsa. com

LeAnn Rimes Jan. 23 Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Tulsa The country singer visits Tulsa for one night only. hardrockcasinotulsa.com

Pecos & the Rooftops Jan. 31 Cain's Ballroom Enjoy this alternative band, coming to Tulsa's Cain's Ballroom. cainsballroom.com

Art

VisionMakers

2024 Through Jan. 25 108 Contemporary VisionMakers2024 is 108 Contemporary’s signature-juried biennial exhibition for contemporary fine craft-based artists in Oklahoma, Arkansas, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, New Mexico and Texas. 108contemporary.org

Modern Day Hatred Through Feb. 28 Sherwin Miller Museum of Jewish Art Modern Day Hatred examines how racism, antisemitism, homophobia and other forms of hate have manifested

in Oklahoma from the past to the present. jewishmuseumtulsa.org

Invited to Life Through June

6 Sherwin Miller Museum of Jewish Art Award-winning author and photographic artist B.A. Van Sise explores the varied and sometimes complicated lives of Holocaust survivors in the United States. jewishmuseumtulsa.org

War Club: Native Art & Activism Through June

29 Philbrook War Club is the culminating exhibition of Anita and Yatika Fields’s project delving into Native artwork and ephemera from important historical and contemporary moments of resistance. philbrook.org

Eduardo Sarabia: Ceiba Sagrada Through Dec. 28

Philbrook Los Angeles-born, Mexico-based Eduardo Sarabia has become one of the better-known artistic voices of his generation for using materials and imagery associated with street culture, craft and folk history to draw connections between his personal story and the narrative of Mexico. philbrook.org

Slumgullion: The Venerate Outpost

Ongoing Philbrook Philbrook is proud to partner with award-winning artist Karl Unnasch to present Slumgullion, a full-scale log cabin built from the skeleton of a late1800s pioneer home. philbrook.org

Sports

University of Tulsa Men's

Basketball Jan. 1, 11, 21, 26, 29 Reynolds Center See the Men's Hurricane basketball team duke it out on the court. tulsahurricane.com

Tulsa Shootout Through Jan. 4 Expo Square The Tulsa Shootout is the largest event for micro sprint racing in the world. tulsashootout. com

All-Star Team Roping Jan. 4-5 Expo Square Enjoy an equine event like no other at the All-Star Team Roping finals. exposquare.com

University of Tulsa Women's

Basketball Jan. 4, 8, 15, 25 Reynolds Center The TU women's basketball team are back at it in 2025. tulsahurricane.com

Chili Bowl Jan. 8-18 Expo Square The Chili Bowl is an indoor dirt car race that takes place annually. It's considered one of the biggest motorsports events of the year. exposquare.com

Tulsa Oilers Hockey Jan. 10-12, 14, 17-19, 31 BOK Center Enjoy pro hockey at the BOK Center. bokcenter. com

American Finals Rodeo Jan. 23-25 Expo Square A variety of rodeo events await at this annual competition. exposquare.com

Professional Bull Riders Jan. 24-25 BOK Center See the Pendleton Whisky Velocity Tour for two nights. bokcenter.com

Community

Rhema Christmas Lights Through Jan. 1 Rhema Bible College, Broken Arrow Join thousands of visitors at the annual Rhema Christmas Lights and witness over three million shimmering lights synchronized to Christmas music. rhemalights.org

First Friday Art Crawl Jan. 3

Downtown On the first Friday of every month, guests will be able to see a new exhibit opening and enjoy live music, a cash bar and snacks. humanities.utulsa.edu

Winterfest Through Jan. 6 Downtown Tulsa Downtown Tulsa is

Photo by Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman courtesy Celebrity Attractions

Winterfest, an annual holiday tradition. Bring friends and family together for holiday festivities and share the joyful spirit of the season. tulsawinterfest.com

OKLAHOMA OKLAHOMA

a substantial step up from Celtic Throne, with advances in set design, costumes, lighting and special effects, and state-of-the-art visual technology. armstrongauditorium.org

PRESIDENT AND EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

DANIEL SCHUMAN

PUBLISHER AND FOUNDER

VIDA K. SCHUMAN

Go Short, Go Long, Go Very Long Jan. 18 Tulsa River Parks System This annual 5K, 10K, 25K and 50K is back again with distances for every level of runner or walker. travelok.com

OKLAHOMA

MANAGING EDITOR

MARY WILLA ALLEN

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

JOHN WOOLEY

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

BRYAN MEADOR

DIGITAL CONSULTANT

Tulsa Martin Luther King Jr. Parade Jan. 20 N. Detroit Ave. and John Hope Franklin Blvd. Head to the annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade through Tulsa to honor a legend and celebrate freedom with the community. mlktulsa.com

JAMES AVERY

Tulsa Boat, Sport & Travel Show Jan. 27-Feb. 2 Expo

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

STEPHANIE PHILLIPS, BRENT FUCHS

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: ADVERTISING@OKMAG.COM

Square Be among the first to see 2025 model boats, RVs and thousands of other outdoor accessories, all under one roof, at the absolute best prices of the year. tulsaboatshow.com

EVENTS AND CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS: EVENTS@OKMAG.COM

Charitable Events

Grant Writing Summit Jan.

ALL OTHER INQUIRIES: MAIL@OKMAG.COM

8 Virtual Attend this intensive session to cover all the bases on grant writing. This day-long session will also include an opportunity to workshop a portion of your own grant narrative. okcnp.org

Standards for Excellence Jan.

Oklahoma Magazine is published monthly by Schuman Publishing Company P.O. Box 14204 • Tulsa, OK 74159-1204 918.744.6205 • FAX: 918.748.5772 mail@okmag.com www.okmag.com

Jo Koy Jan. 17 Paycom Center As one of today’s premiere stand-up comedians, Jo Koy has come a long way from his modest beginnings performing in a Las Vegas coffee house. Jo’s uniquely relatable comedy pulls inspiration from his colorful family that has reached all kinds of people. paycomcenter. com

Texas. towertheatreokc.com

Le er from the Editor

The Civic Center Foundation presents: Air Supply Jan. 17 Civic Center Music Hall 2025 brings more seemingly nonstop rousing performances of the smash hits by this powerhouse band. okcciviccenter.com

Eva Schlegel: Multiple Voices Through Jan. 13 Oklahoma Contemporary Multiple Voices is the first public artwork in the United States by Eva Schlegel, the Austria-born and -based artist known for engineering steel and mirrors into spectacular, architectonic sculptures. oklahomacontemporary.org

features modern and contemporary paintings, photographs, video art and digital art that relate to humanity’s use of and interaction with the environment. okcmoa.com

Alan Jackson Jan. 18 Paycom

Center Country Music Hall of Famer

Alan Jackson is preparing to bring his Last Call: One More for the Road Tour to Oklahoma City with special guests Megan Moroney and James Carothers! paycomcenter.com

OKC Phil presents: Music of the Knights Jan. 24-25 Civic Center Music Hall Step into the legendary realms of Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber, Sir Elton John, and Sir Paul McCartney, where knigh ood meets musical mastery. Incredible Broadway vocalists will lead a journey through the greatest hits of three iconic songwriters whose legacies resonate across generations. okcciviccenter. com

QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS ABOUT CONTENT: EDITOR@OKMAG.COM

Kingdom of David & Solomon Discovered Through Jan. 17 Armstrong Auditorium Artifacts from 10th-century Israel are on display at the Armstrong Auditorium through January. armstrongauditorium.org

Hudson Westbrook Jan. 18 Tower

Theatre After an explosive arrival and a series of grassroots hits, Hudson Westbrook is now taking his place among a new generation of country singer-songwriters. towertheatreokc. com

Art

OKC Phil presents: As Heard on TV Jan. 26 Civic Center Music Hall OKC Phil's fabulous orchestra is all set to take you on a journey through your favorite iconic tunes that you’ve heard on TV, in movies and even in your favorite video games. And who better to lead this symphonic adventure than the incredibly talented Shanti Simon? okcphil.org

15 Legacy Plaza Standards for Excellence 2.0 includes expanded and enhanced benchmarks for nonprofit best practices, including 79 benchmarks for best practices; new sample policies in social media and information technologies all nonprofits need to know; and improved information on outcome-based measurements and logic models to prove mission impact. okcnp.org

Subscriptions are $18 for 12 issues. Mail checks to Oklahoma Magazine P.O. Box 14204 Tulsa, OK 74159-1204

OKCNP Tulsa Open House and Holiday Celebration Jan. 21 Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits Learn about OKCNP's classes and new membership model. okcnp.org

Tulsa Regional Chamber Annual Meeting Jan. 23 Cox

Business Convention Center At the Chamber’s 2025 Annual Meeting, Bill Knight, owner and president of Bill Knight Automotive, will be formally inaugurated as the 2025 board chair. coxcentertulsa.com

Toyland Ball presents Rendezvous Jan. 25 Cox

Chihuly Then and Now: The Collection at Twenty Ongoing OKCMOA Redesigned in collaboration with Chihuly Studio, Chihuly Then and Now: The Collection at Twenty incorporates a unique design, featuring five decades of glass and painting and tells a comprehensive story of Chihuly’s groundbreaking career. okcmoa.com

showcase top NCAA Gymnastics Teams in Oklahoma City. Five of the eight national semifinalists from the NCAA National Collegiate Women’s Gymnastics Championship will participate in the second year of the event. paycomcenter.com

Cynthia Daignault: Oklahoma Ongoing OKCMOA This exhibition features one painting, Oklahoma by Cynthia Daignault, as a tribute to the history of the Oklahoma City bombing from 1995. okcmoa.com

Oklahoma Invitational Classic Jan. 10-12 OKC Convention Center OKC Gymnastics is one of the top gymnastics and power tumbling facilities in Oklahoma. See athletes compete. okcconventioncenter. com

Cheyenne Ledger Art from Fort Marion Through Jan. 5 National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum This exhibition is curated by Dr. Eric Singleton, curator of Native American Art and Ethnology and Director of Language and Culture Programs at the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes, Gordon Ellowman. nationalcowboymuseum.org

Outré West: The American School of Architecture from Oklahoma to California Through Jan. 27 Oklahoma Contemporary Outré West: The American School of Architecture from Oklahoma to California considers the works of a group of architects who were educated and mentored in Oklahoma in the 1950s and 1960s, and later developed groundbreaking design practices in California. oklahomacontemporary. org

Sports

Picasso Linocut

Oklahoma City Blue

Basketball Jan. 2, 4, 13, 14, 27, 30 Paycom Center See the OKC Blue take on foes in January. paycomcenter.com

Boston Brass and Imani Winds Jan. 28 Armstrong Auditorium, Edmond Boston Brass and the 2024 Grammy-winning Imani Winds are excited to announce the creation of a new consortium. armstrongauditorium. org

Exhibition Through Jan.

Happy 2025, Oklahoma. Let’s make it a good one!

Mary Willa Allen Managing Editor

Concerts

Wade Bowen Jan. 4 Tower Theatre Paul Wade Bowen is an American Texas Country/ Red Dirt singer from Waco,

COMMUNITY

5 OKCMOA An exhibition of prints by Pablo Picasso, including seventeen progressive proofs and two published linocuts, this show explores his artistic process and one of printmaking’s most fascinating and demanding mediums, the linoleum cut print. okcmoa.com

Colors of Freedom Through Jan.

6 Oklahoma Contemporary This exhibition presents a collection of artworks created by young Ukrainians who want to share their fears, hopes and dreams with the world. oklahomacontemporary.org

Hock E Aye Vi Edgar Heap of Birds: Honor Song Jan. 30-Oct. 20 Oklahoma Contemporary Oklahoma Contemporary presents the first major retrospective of Oklahoma City-based artist Edgar Heap of Birds, who is known internationally for conceptual artwork that addresses Indigenous rights, sovereignty and relationships to place. oklahomacontemporary.org

The Three Shades Through Aug. 23 OKCMOA Enjoy this single-gallery installation featuring one of the masterworks of modern sculpture, Auguste Rodin’s The Three Shades, on loan from a private collection. okcmoa.com

Land Use: Humanity's Interaction with Nature Through Sept. 28 OKCMOA This gallery

University of Oklahoma Women's Basketball Jan. 2, 12, 16, 26 Lloyd Noble Center The Sooners play against regular season teams. soonersports.com

Oklahoma City Thunder Basketball Jan. 2-3, 5, 16, 19, 22-23 Paycom Center The state's NBA team takes on regular-season teams at home. nba.com/thunder

University of Oklahoma Men's Basketball Jan. 8, 15, 18 Lloyd Noble Center, Norman The Sooners play at home. soonersports.com

2025 ESPN Gymnastics Invitational Jan. 10-11 Paycom Center 2025 Sprouts Farmers Market Collegiate Quad is set to

Flying High

If you’re feeling a bit bummed about the end of the holidays, fear not – community events abound.

All photographs, articles, materials and design elements in Oklahoma Magazine and on okmag. com are protected by applicable copyright and trademark laws, and are owned by Schuman Publishing Company or third party providers. Reproduction, copying, or redistribution without the express written permission of Schuman Publishing Company is strictly prohibited.

Business Convention Center The Parent and Child Center of Tulsa is hosting their annual signature fundraiser, Toyland Ball, at Cox Business Convention Center. This black tie gala with a whimsical theme offers an elegant evening of dinner and dancing, with a live auction. coxcentertulsa.com

IN OKC Performances

OKC Phil presents: Dichter Plays Grieg Jan. 11 Civic Center Music Hall See Gerard Schwarz as guest conductor with Misha Dichter on piano. okcphil.org

Celtic Throne II Jan. 12, 19 Armstrong Auditorium, Edmond This January, Oklahoma’s very own Armstrong Dance and Herbert W. Armstrong College will debut their revolutionary new Irish dance show. Celtic Throne II – Psalter of Ireland represents

Time Travel HalfMarathon Jan. 26 1120 S. Western Ave. Runners of all ages and experience levels are invited to join in the fun. travelok.com American Spirit Championships Central National Finals Jan. 31-Feb. 2 OKC Convention Center ASC is the ultimate in cheerleading and dance competitions, with a mission to showcase America’s cheerleaders and dancers while making every competition experience unforgettable. okcconventioncenter.com

CommunityArt

OKC Zoo Safari Lights Through Jan. 1 Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden This winter, go wild and fill your holiday season with the magic of light. okczoo.org

Edmond Electric's Luminance: An Enchanted Stroll Through Jan. 1 Mitch Park, Edmond Embark on a delightful 1/4-mile stroll through the park and take in the glittering lights, 3D lighted displays and picture-worthy sets with the whole family. edmondlights.com

In Tulsa, bundle up to enjoy the First Friday Art Crawl, Jan. 3 downtown. New exhibitions, live music, snacks and a cash bar help that festive feeling stick around a little longer. Similar events can be found in OKC’s Paseo District, also on Jan. 3, as well as the Norman Arts District on Jan. 10. Also in Tulsa, enjoy the Go Short, Go Long, Go Very Long race, with options for 5K, 10K, 25K and 50K runs. The event, which takes place Jan. 18, is looped through the Tulsa River Parks system. Venture to N. Detroit Ave. and John Hope Franklin Blvd. downtown to enjoy the Tulsa Martin Luther King Jr. Parade on Jan. 20, or head to Expo Square for the Tulsa Boat, Sport & Travel Show, Jan. 27-Feb. 2.

OKC has a smattering of varied community events this month. Start with the Arcadia Lake Eagle Watch, happening Jan. 3-5. The OKC Fairgrounds has several gatherings to enjoy: the National Pigeon Association Grand National Show, Jan. 15-18; the OKC Gem, Jewelry & Bead Show, Jan. 17-19; and the Oklahoma Home & Garden Show, also Jan. 17-19. And remember, Downtown in December – with ice skating, holiday events, free Bricktown ferry rides and more – runs through Feb. 2.

Around the state, head to the KNID Agrifest, Jan. 10-11 at Enid’s Chisholm Trail Expo Center, or the HERPS Exotic Reptile & Pet Show, Jan. 11-12 at Shawnee’s Heart of Oklahoma Expo Center. Fans of traditional bluegrass music and gospel won’t want to miss the Western Hills Winter Bluegrass Festival, Jan. 16-18 at the Lodge at Sequoyah State Park in Wagoner. Or for a sharp left turn – literally – visit the Stephens County Fairgrounds in Duncan for the Duncan Monster Truck Wars on Jan. 18.

DUNCAN MONSTER TRUCK WARS

Photo courtesy Monster Truck Wars

Where & When | Entertainment

First Friday Gallery Walk Jan.

3 Paseo Arts District Make your way to the First Friday Gallery Walk in Oklahoma City's Paseo Arts District to enjoy art gallery openings, wine tastings, live music and more. thepaseo.org

Arcadia Lake Eagle

Watch Jan. 3-5 Arcadia Lake Dress warmly, bring your binoculars and embark on an adventure around the lake's 26 miles of picturesque shoreline. travelok.com

Cattlemen's Congress Jan.

4-16 OKC Fairgrounds The Cattlemen’s Congress is an opportunity for breeders across North America to showcase their top genetics and connect with fellow beef producers in a central location: the heart of cattle country. cattlemencongress.com

2nd Friday Norman Art Walk Jan. 10 Norman Arts District The 2nd Friday Norman Art Walk, a monthly celebration of the arts in Norman, connects the downtown arts district with outlying galleries, performance halls and Campus Corner. 2ndfridaynorman.com

OKC RV & Boat Show Jan. 10-12 OKC Fairgrounds If you're looking to stock up on outdoor gear before the summer holidays, visit the OKC RV and Boat Show. okcfairgrounds.com

Second OHOF Saturdays Jan. 11 Oklahoma Hall of Fame Second Oklahoma Hall of Fame Saturdays invite families to learn about an Oklahoma Hall of Fame member with crafts and activities. oklahomahof.com

National Pigeon Association

Grand National Show Jan. 15-18 Oklahoma State Fair

Park This event is held annually in alternating regions of the

United States and showcases over 200 breeds of exhibition pigeons. travelok.com

OKC Gem, Jewelry and Bead Show Jan. 17-19 OKC Fairgrounds Enjoy this show that features everything from fine jewelry and fashion jewelry to beads, beading supplies, findings, gold, silver, charms, designer cabochons, gemstones, pearls and more. aksshow.com

and bustle of the holiday season comes alive in downtown Oklahoma City. downtownindecember.com

a familiar favorite with its original score from Grammy Award-winner Bryan Adams. travelok.com

Charitable Events

HR for Nonprofit Management Jan. 7 Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits Join the Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits for this 1-day training on Human Resources in the nonprofit sector. okcnp.org

oklahomacityhomeshow.com

Oklahoma Home and Garden Show Jan. 17-19 OKC Fairgrounds The Oklahoma City Home + Garden Show is a vibrant marketplace where you can shop for home-related products and services, experience stunning displays to help inspire your next home project, connect with industry experts, and enjoy informative presentations from renowned local and international home professionals. oklahomacityhomeshow.com

Oklahoma Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Convention Jan. 25 Embassy Suites Hilton Celebrate the individuals, horses, ranches and businesses who significantly impacted Oklahoma’s equine industry at the Oklahoma Quarter Horse Hall of Fame and Convention. okqha.org

OKC Spirit Fair Jan. 25-26 Reed Conference Center, Midwest City Interact with like minded, nontraditionalists looking to explore the eccentric items and services available at the event. spiritfair.com

Blackhawk Industrial Trade Show Jan. 27-28 OKC Convention Center Visit the No. 1 choice for industrial manufacturers who need technical services and production savings. okcconventioncenter.com

Downtown in December Through Feb. 2 Downtown OKC The hustle

OKCNP OKC Lunch & Learn: Nonprofit Accounting Fundamentals Jan. 23 Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits OKCNP's Shared Financial Services team will cover the basics that all nonprofit professionals should know about nonprofit specific accounting - how it differs from for-profit accounting; how to read key financial reports; the importance of revenue recognition and tracking restricted funds. okcnp. org

DeadCenter Film GlitterBall Quarter Quell Jan.

31 Oklahoma Historical Society deadCenter Film cordially invites you to an evening of celebration and extravagance at GlitterBall: Quarter Quell. deadcenterfilm.org

THE STATE Performances

Broadway in Bartlesville presents: Pretty Woman the Musical Jan. 6 Bartlesville Community Center This January, experience one of Hollywood's most famous love stories on stage during Pretty Woman: The Musical Based on the Oscar-nominated 1990 film, this play puts a new twist on

Chicago Symphony Orchestra Jan. 23-24 McKnight Center for the Performing Arts, Stillwater The Chicago Symphony Orchestra returns to the McKnight Center for its second engagement with Maestro Muti at the podium. In addition to performing two unique concerts, the orchestra will provide multiple masterclasses for OSU music students. mcknightcenter. org

Duncan Area Arts Hall of Fame Show Jan. 25 1330 Chisholm Trail Pkway., Duncan Come celebrate talented artists in Duncan at the Duncan Area Arts Hall of Fame Show. This memorable event will honor inductees into the hall of fame and recognize their contribution to the arts in Oklahoma. simmonscenter. com

Gabriel Iglesias Jan. 31 Winstar World Casino and Resort, Thackerville Boasting over 25 million social media followers and 1.1 billion YouTube views, Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias is without a doubt one of the most successful standup acts of all time. winstar. com

Concerts

Clay Walker Jan. 4 Choctaw Casino and Resort, Grant Visit the Choctaw Casino Resort in Grant to see country music artist Clay Walker live. choctawcasinos.com

La Mafia Jan. 17 Winstar World Casino and Resort, Thackerville Catch one of the most exciting Tejano acts of all time as La Mafia makes their way to WinStar on Jan. 17. winstar.com

Charlie Wilson Jan. 18 Winstar World Casino and Resort, Thackerville With 13 No. 1 singles,

13 Grammy nominations and a BET Lifetime Achievement Award, it’s safe to say Charlie Wilson is one of the most iconic R&B acts of all time. winstar.com

The Beach Boys Jan. 24 Winstar World Casino and Resort, Thackerville With some of the most recognizable hits in the canon of pop music, including “Wouldn’t It Be Nice,” “Good Vibrations,” and “God Only Knows,” The Beach Boys are an essential component of contemporary music history. winstar.com

Kevin Cronin Jan. 25 Winstar World Casino and Resort, Thackerville For the last five decades, REO Speedwagon frontman Kevin Cronin has electrified audiences with his unmistakable brand of arena rock anthems. winstar.com

Los Tigres del Norte Jan. 31 Choctaw Casino and Resort, Durant Los Tigres del Norte are a norteño band from San Jose, California. choctawcasinos.com

Sports

Claremore's Championship

Rodeo Jan. 4 Claremore Expo Center This event will be packed with rodeo action featuring some of the best cowboys and cowgirls in the region. visitclaremore.com

Oklahoma State University Women's Basketball Jan. 4, 11, 22, 29 Gallagher-Iba Arena The Cowgirls take on a bevy of teams this month at Gallagher-Iba Arena in Stillwater. okstate.com

Oklahoma State University Men's Basketball Jan. 7, 18, 21 Gallagher-Iba Arena, Stillwater See the Cowboys play regular season teams at home. okstate.com

Outlaw Motor Sports Indoor

Kart Racing Jan. 9-11 Feel the rush of adrenaline as racers take on the Outlaw Motor Sports Indoor Kart Racing in Shawnee. outlawmotorsports.net

International Finals

Rodeo Jan. 16-19 Lazy E Arena, Guthrie Every year, the top 15 cowboys and cowgirls from across the U.S. and three Canadian provinces travel to Oklahoma and compete for world championship titles in seven standard rodeo events. ipra-rodeo.com

Kicker AMA Arenacross & Freestyle Motocross Show Jan. 24 Prepare for an evening of thrilling dirt bike races at the annual Kicker AMA Arenacross & Freestyle Motocross Show in Guthrie's Lazy E Arena. arenacrossusa.com

Central 4D Barrel Races Jan. 25-26 Cross Bar Arena, Kiefer Make your way to the Heart of Oklahoma Expo Center in Shawnee to see riders compete in the Central 4D Barrel Racers event. This is one event you don't want to miss. central4d.com

Community

First Day Hike Jan.

1 Statewide At a variety of state parks around Oklahoma, enjoy a hike with other nature enthusiasts to kick off a new year. Some locations include Foss State Park, Cherokee Landing State Park and Keystone State Park. travelok.com

Yukon Ice Rink Through Jan. 5 500 W. Vandament Ave. Part of Yukon's Christmas in the Park event, the Yukon Ice Rink welcomes skaters of all ages. Make sure to enjoy the end of the holiday season! yukonicerink. com

SPORTS AdrenalinePumping Action

Basketball – both collegiate and professional –rules the January calendar. TU plays at home, Tulsa’s Reynolds Center, throughout the month, with games on Jan. 1, 11, 21, 26 and 29 for men and Jan. 4, 8, 15 and 25 for women. The Sooners have games at Norman’s Lloyd Noble Center on Jan. 2, 12, 16 and 26 for women and Jan. 8, 15 and 18 for men. Lastly, the Cowgirls play at the Gallagher-Iba Arena in Stillwater on Jan. 4, 11, 22 and 29; Cowboys play Jan. 7, 18 and 21. Professional basketball remains a hot ticket item at OKC’s Paycom Center, with OKC Thunder games Jan. 2-3, 5, 16, 19 and 22-23, and OKC Blue games Jan. 2, 4, 13, 14, 27 and 30.

In Tulsa, sporting enthusiasts won’t want to miss the All-Star Team Roping finals, Jan. 4-5 at Expo Square. Stick around the venue for the Chili Bowl – one of the nation's biggest motorsports events – on Jan. 8-18. You can also venture over to the BOK Center for Tulsa Oilers’ hockey matches Jan. 10-12, 14, 17-19 and 31, as well as the Professional Bullriders Jan. 24-25. In OKC, don’t miss the ESPN Gymnastics Invitational, Jan. 10-11 at the Paycom Center, as well as the Time Travel Half-Marathon, Jan. 26 starting at 1120 S. Western Ave. Other events include the Claremore’s Championship Rodeo, Jan. 4 at the Claremore Expo Center, as well the International Finals Rodeo, Jan. 16-19, and the Kicker AMA Arenacross and Freestyle Motocross Show, Jan. 24, both at Guthrie’s Lazy E Arena.

KNID Agrifest Jan. 10-11 Chisholm Trail Expo Center, Enid KNID Agrifest, northwest Oklahoma's largest farm show, provides informative seminars and demonstrations as well as vendor booths, activities and more. enidlive.com

HERPS Exotic Reptile & Pet Show Jan. 11-12 Heart of Oklahoma Expo Center, Shawnee Thousands of reptiles, amphibians, inverts, feeders, small mammals, supplies and more are available for purchase from the top vendors in the U.S. at the HERPS Exotic Reptile & Pet Show. herpshow.net

Western Hills Winter Bluegrass Festival Jan. 16-18 The Lodge at Sequoyah State Park, Wagoner Come out and enjoy gospel and traditional bluegrass music during the Western Hills Winter Bluegrass Festival. travelok.com

Duncan Monster Truck Wars Jan. 18 Stephens County Fairgrounds, Duncan Experience the thrill of 12,000 lb monster trucks in head-to-head competitions at Duncan Monster Truck Wars this January. monstertrucks.fun

Photo courtesy NBAE/Getty Images

OKC THUNDER BASKETBALL

PRESIDENT AND EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

DANIEL SCHUMAN

OKLAHOMA OKLAHOMA OKLAHOMA

2025's First Offerings

PUBLISHER AND FOUNDER

VIDA K. SCHUMAN

MANAGING EDITOR

MARY WILLA ALLEN

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

JOHN WOOLEY

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Le er from the Editor

The cinematic year kicks off with children’s fare, action and psychological thrillers.

BRYAN MEADOR

DIGITAL CONSULTANT

JAMES AVERY

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

STEPHANIE PHILLIPS, BRENT FUCHS

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: ADVERTISING@OKMAG.COM

OEVENTS AND CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS: EVENTS@OKMAG.COM

QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS ABOUT CONTENT: EDITOR@OKMAG.COM

ALL OTHER INQUIRIES: MAIL@OKMAG.COM

h no, it’s January! Generally a month dedicated to quitting recently started New Year’s resolutions, January also serves as a dumping ground for garbage films destined to hopefully make a quick profit before disappearing from the public eye. From the rubble I’ve gathered a few that might rise above, but only time will tell!

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Jan. 31.

First up is one of the only safe bets on the list – Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl. A stop motion animated comedy within the greater Wallace and Gromit series, the film finds Wallace in trouble after his invention, the “smart gnome,” develops an evil mind of its own. Running at a beautifully brisk 79 minutes and already brimming with positive reviews, it’s a perfect way to spend an evening with the family at home when it releases to Netflix on Jan. 3.

If you want action, look no further than Levon’s Trade. Based on the 2014 novel of the same name by Chuck Dixon, the story revolves around Levon Cade (Jason Statham), an ex-Black Ops agent who now leads a peaceful life with his daughter. Things, of course, do not continue down that road when someone in his life goes missing. The plot will likely be full of clichés as the “one last job” style thriller moves through the story beats, and director David Ayer (Suicide Squad) is no stranger to these types of films. It will, presumably, have fun action sequences with a high body count. It’s also co-written by Sylvester Stallone, and although I’m unsure if that’s a plus or a negative, it’s likely to be a fun time-waster when it releases on Jan. 17.

For another easy win with the

Happy 2025, Oklahoma. Let’s make it a good one!

Mary Willa Allen Managing Editor

kids, check out Paddington in Peru. Based on the stories of Paddington Bear and the third installment in the film series, this story sees Paddington return to, you guessed it, Peru, to visit his Aunt Lucy. A wild and thrilling adventure awaits him, along with a cast that includes Hugh Bonneville (Downton Abbey), Emily Mortimer (The Newsroom), Olivia Coleman (The Favourite), Antonio Banderas (The Legend of Zorro) and Ben Whishaw (My Brother Tom) as the voice of Paddington. The film released in early November in the UK and received high praise, so it should be a good choice for a family outing when it opens in the U.S. on Jan. 17.

For a bizarre psychological thriller, don’t miss Companion The teaser trailer seems to indicate a romantic relationship gone extremely awry, coupled with some violent imagery –stabbings, bloody faces, a woman handcuffed to a chair at dinner, a hand on fire, and an off-putting smile from Jack Quaid (The Boys). The film also stars Sophie Thatcher (Yellowjackets) and Rupert Friend (Homeland). It looks to be an extremely weird time when it releases on

That’s mostly it for this dreary month, so I’d recommend catching up on the 2024 list of films you never got around to watching. Maybe look into the Oscar buzz and binge the ones you missed! Or just watch Dune: Part Two again, because that movie is excellent.

DREW JOSEPH ALLEN

Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl, photo courtesy Aardman

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Closing Thoughts

Will Lufburrow

President and CEO of Goodwill Central Oklahoma, Will Lufburrow boasts over 15 years of experience in the nonprofit industry. Before taking the OKC helm in July 2024, Lufburrow served as chief operating officer at Goodwill South Texas.

Lufburrow, who is known for fostering a culture of innovation and driving sustainable business practices, brings a rounded knowledge of retail donation operations and complex market dynamics to the role. We caught up with Lufburrow and got his thoughts on ...

... what drew him to the nonprofit sector.

Goodwill has been somewhat of a “family” calling for three generations. Both my father and grandfather served as president and CEO for Goodwill Houston, so it was a natural fit to continue that legacy in Oklahoma City. I spent a brief period in the private sector in 2018 but quickly found out that I wanted to return to the Goodwill community and continue the mission of changing lives through the power of work.

... fostering innovation and sustainable business practices.

The beauty of the social enterprise model that Goodwill operates is that it allows us the opportunity to address problems at the source with a multitude of approaches. I support a “yes, and” atmosphere in our offices. No idea is too out of the box, and its up to leadership to not stop what could be the solution to a problem by saying “that will never work,” but instead we must encourage open dialogue by saying “yes, and” to the idea. Not every idea or plan becomes obtainable, but we can’t stop them before they are allowed to grow into an action plan. As more public needs begin to pull at the nonprofit community, we must take any available approach to accomplish our respective

missions to see the change we desire.

... what makes him proudest about Goodwill.

I am a firm believer in Goodwill’s mission to provide job training and placement opportunities for anyone with a barrier to employment. The positive impact a job can make in someone’s life is insurmountable, with that job being the difference between personal growth and independence or desperation. As I often tell my team, I didn’t pursue a career in Goodwill because of my passion for thrift retail, but instead to see our communities transformed. I believe Goodwill can offer a much-needed solution to many of the challenges so many people are facing daily. Our goal is to see our clients gain employment and grow in their career journey, giving dignity and freedom back to many folks who may have thought these things were out of reach.

... his goals.

... what people should know about Goodwill.

Goodwill is much more than just our stores. We provide job training and job placement opportunities to those who may be experiencing barriers to employment. When you shop at a Goodwill store, 90 cents of every dollar go to advancing our mission of changing lives through the power of work.

... how to get involved.

It is my belief that Goodwill Central Oklahoma should and can be one of the premier service organizations in the central Oklahoma territory. From an increased focus to continue to grow and improve our retail operations, to creating even more of a significant impact in Oklahoma City and surrounding areas, I believe this Goodwill is prime to achieve that status. We have a wealth of opportunities for our mission advancement as well as our retail growth. We opened our store in Weatherford in July that not only provides a great shopping experience for the local community, but also houses a career center for individuals seeking our services. This month we also cut the ribbon on our brand-new mobile services unit, which will allow us to take our services on the road to many of the rural communities surrounding Oklahoma City.

We’re always looking for ways to get the community involved. From donation drives, event sponsorships and volunteers, to local experts giving us their insight into a specific market, we need the support of our community to continue advancing our mission.

... where to find him outside work.

My family and I recently got settled into Edmond and have loved it. I am a father of three elementary school aged kids, so it’s a safe bet that you’ll find me at soccer, baseball or cheerleading. My wife Terrell and I have loved the art and food scene here in Edmond and OKC, so we have taken every opportunity to explore some of the great restaurants and venues Central Oklahoma has to offer. But more importantly, where there’s good coffee, it’s a guarantee you will find my wife and I there at some point.

Photo courtesy Goodwill Industries of Central Oklahoma

Le er from the Editor

Happy 2025, Oklahoma. Let’s make it a good one!

Exceptional Care for Extraordinary People

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE

Experts advise on how to start 2025 o on the right foot.

38 ings to Do in 2025

Oklahomans of the Year

Where Hope Meets Excellence: The OU Health Difference

ers up

In a state that ranks among the lowest in health outcomes, OU Health stands as Oklahoma’s flagship academic health system. We have an unwavering commitment to the people of Oklahoma. We’re not just treating patients – we’re transforming lives through research, innovative care, and a deep understanding of our state’s unique healthcare needs.

As your academic health system, we provide specialized care backed by research and discovery. Our mission goes beyond medical excellence. We’re breaking down barriers and creating more access to care for every Oklahoman, bringing advanced treatment options to all corners of our state.

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From developing new treatments to training the next generation of medical leaders, we’re building a stronger, healthier future for Oklahoma.

January 2024 Oklahoma Magazine

OKLAHOMA

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OKLAHOMA

OKLAHOMA

Table of Contents

Oklahomans of the Year

Advanced surgical care

Life & Style

from the robotics leader in northeast Oklahoma

42 Oklahoma Wedding

Table of Contents

26 A Fresh Start

38

ings to Do in 2025

Oklahomans of the Year

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OKLAHOMA OKLAHOMA OKLAHOMA

The State

ALL THINGS OKLAHOMA

Writing New Relationships

T38 ings to Do in 2025

42 Oklahoma Wedding

OKLAHOMA

Pen Pal Safety

OF THE

2025

2020

The Heartbeat of Music

26 A Fresh Start

OKLAHOMA OKLAHOMA OKLAHOMA ™

For a Winter Sojourn

Efforts Worth a Dam

Non-Electric Dams

Hydroelectric Dams

An Exercise in Global Empathy

A River Running Through

Arkansas River

Red River

Washita River

Salt Fork Red River

Loving Fido and Felix

a serious commitment.

Communicating & Connecting

Different Ways to Share

Taking Time to Listen

Sharing State Stories

Rapid Recall

Trivia for You

Where ‘Stuff’ Belongs

An Oklahoma Reading List

Why not learn more about Oklahoma while doing so?

The Outsiders

Where the Red Fern Grows

Killers of the Flower Moon:

The Innocent Man:

Paradise

Grapes of Wrath

Ready Player One

Boom Town:

Bound for Glory

A Dog Called Kitty

Reaching the Summit

Oklahoma’s highest point is found at Black Mesa State Park.

Creating Community

Oklahoma City Community Foundation

George Kaiser Family Foundation

A Hee-Hawing Good Time

Insider | The State

The Professionals

Life & Style

Riding Life’s Volcano

A MAP TO LIVING WELL

Positively Poteau

Downsizing Hacks

Caring for the Tiniest of Patients

A FRESH START

PHYSICAL HEALTH: REACHING YOUR GOALS

Strength, Balance & Endurance

Flexibility