Oklahoma Magazine September 2023

Diving Into College Sports Juggling academics,

competition and high expectations

Fall Festival Preview

What’s on the schedule this autumn

Plus: Active Years

23 Thinking Green

The world of finance can seem complicated, intimidating and volatile ... but with the right help, you’ll be on the road to success.

29 Active Years

Staying active is not just a young person’s game. In fact, moving our bodies may even be more important as the years go by. There is no reason the 65+ crowd has to sit idle; we explore the many ways seniors can stay motivated.

32 The World of Collegiate Sports

Student athletes have a laundry list of responsibilities. Along with securing wins, they’re also expected to focus on academics, keep up a positive public image and represent their schools well. We dive into the avenues college leadership takes to help these athletes –both on and off the field.

53 Fall Festival Preview

While Oklahoma temperatures are finally falling, outdoor festivals are gaining major traction. You can find an event just about every weekend from September onward ... the hardest part will be choosing which to visit!

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

With the (very, very slight) whisper of fall in the air, you’re likely searching for outdoor activities in those few short weeks between blistering heat and freezing cold. Not to worry – our annual Fall Festival Preview offers events every weekend from now through December (page 53). Go to a pumpkin patch, ride in a hot air balloon, don some lederhosen ... the world’s your oyster!

Oklahomans don’t mess around when it comes to college sports, and we dive into that dynamic world starting on page 32. From discussions on hazing to teaching sportsmanship and focusing on academics, it’s quite the ride.

Just because you’ve been dubbed a ‘senior citizen’ doesn’t mean you should sequester yourself to dim bingo halls and quiet knitting circles (unless that’s your thing, of course). In our annual Active Years feature (page 29), we talk to senior living communities about the many ways they’re keeping residents engaged, active and excited for life’s third act.

And as we inch towards the close of 2023, many begin to focus on endof-year finances. Our new feature spotlights the various ways advisors and managers can help just about anyone with their tailored goals (page 23).

You’ve likely heard about the brand new American Heartland Theme Park and Resort, set to open right outside Vinita in late 2026. We talk to leadership on the project about park offerings and the expected economic impact (page 6). Stick around for stories on the sport of trapshooting (page 11), the hidden gem island of Roatán (page 14) and a trendy new tapas bar in OKC (page 57).

Mary Willa Allen Managing Editor

What’s HOT at OKMAG.COM

Alongside our annual Fall Festival Preview, see bonus photos from a variety of events happening from SeptemberDecember, only at okmag.com.

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THE STATE

Celebrating the American Spirit

The American Heartland Theme Park, set to open in the fall of 2026, will deliver a robust economic upturn for the city of Vinita and Oklahoma at large.

One of Oklahoma’s latest developments is a $2 billion theme park that will contend with major amusement parks like Disneyland and Universal Studios. Named the American Heartland Theme Park, the 1,000-acre development centers around a nostalgic Americana theme, paying homage to the budding nation’s entrepreneurial and adventurous spirit.

Behind this large-scale project is the Mansion Entertainment Group, a performing arts and animation studio company based in Branson, Mo. Helping conceptualize the attractions and storytelling are a handful of creative design firms, including THG, FORREC and Cuningham. Members of the project’s executive committee tout more than 500 years of combined entertainment experience.

Transforming Small-Town Oklahoma into a World-Class Destination

When developers first announced the project in July 2023, it caused a stir due to its multi-billion dollar price tag. Perhaps even more surprising than the project’s total cost was its location: Vinita, which boasted a population of only 5,189 in 2021.

Erik Neergard, chief creative officer of THG, says that the sites for theme parks are often unexpected.

“When Disneyland first started … it was a bunch of orange groves,” he shares.

So, why Vinita? The executive committee, which has kept the project under wraps for several years, went through a bidding process to determine the location. Neergard reveals that the availability of land and Vinita’s proximity to Route

66, Interstate 40 and Grand Lake ‘O the Cherokees were some of the biggest factors in selecting it as the destination for the attraction.

The support of the local community also played a part in the team’s decision.

“There’s a good population in that area that is looking for something to do beyond the lake,” says Neergard. “[The park] will offer that opportunity, and it’ll also help grow the city around it.”

Mayor Josh Lee of Vinita echoes this sentiment. When he first heard about the possibility of American Heartland coming to Vinita, he jumped at the opportunity to facilitate the bidding process.

“I want to make sure that we could always say we’ve done everything we could to get the theme park here,” he says.

Bolstering Economic Opportunity Locally

According to DATA USA, Vinita’s poverty rate is 23%, with the median property value sitting at $88,000 in 2020. The town’s largest industries are healthcare and social services, employing a total of 510 people.

Developers behind American Heartland hope to change both the literal and the economic landscape of Vinita by establishing a robust tourist industry. The

The $2 billion dollar American Heartland Theme Park will be on par with popular parks like Disneyland and Universal Studios.

Renderings courtesy Mansion Entertainment Group

Mansion Entertainment Group estimates that the theme park will draw 4.9 million visitors annually and create over 4,000 new jobs.

“This area has been ignored for a very long time and is primed for growth,” says Mayor Lee. “I’m excited to see how [American Heartland] raises up the community. And not just here [in Vinita], but for all the surrounding towns like Miami, Grove, Afton, Ketchum, Welch and even Blue Jacket. We all need a boost.”

In addition to creating jobs, Mayor Lee

anticipates that Vinita will generate significantly more revenue from sales tax.

“That money is going to help with upgrading the roads, our water and sewage, and the fire and police departments,” he says. “We’re really excited about it.”

Improving Infrastructure

However, there is still a great deal of infrastructure work to do.

“If you look at the land, it’s basically just an empty field,” says Neergard. “We’re kind of building a miniature city in itself.”

Roads, energy sources and water management will all need to be expanded to successfully accommodate the estimated 15,000-30,000 daily visitors that the park will bring.

Mayor Lee confirms that the Oklahoma Department of Transportation and the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority have been involved in plans to expand the two-lane highways to four lanes.

“The ultimate goal is to get an entry and exit point on the Will Rogers Turnpike between Vinita and Afton,” he says.

He also shares that he is helping developers explore the possibility of annexing the land where the theme park will be located, which is approximately three miles away from downtown Vinita.

Breaking Ground on Family-Friendly Fun

The American Heartland theme park will open in phases, beginning with the Three Ponies RV Park & Campground in the spring of 2025. Once opened, it will become the largest campgrounds in the central United States, offering 750 RV spaces, 300 cabins, an amphitheater, swimming pools and a general store.

The rest of the theme park is slated to open to the public in October 2026. Renderings of the park include a 4-star hotel and boardwalk, a water park, roller coasters and a man-made lake. Developers have designed the park so that visitors embark on a journey through American history by exploring its six uniquely themed lands: Liberty Village, Great Plains, Bayou Bay, Big Timber Falls, Stony Point Harbor and Electropolis.

“Electropolis celebrates Edison and Tesla and the inventive era of America,” says Neergard. “There’s a great sensibility to the park. It has heart. It really taps into that feeling of togetherness, hope, joy and the can-do American spirit.”

The developers behind the project are moving quickly to break ground on the project.

“We’re diving right into the heart of solving any issues, working through the design process and bringing on the best of the best,” says Neergard. “I hope that everyone gets to join us for the opening in October of 2026. We have a lot of work to do, but we’re really excited to do it.”

FAITH HARL

Leadership on the project has been working for years to develop models, raise capital and find the perfect location.

Photo courtesy Mansion Entertainment Group

With an estimated opening date in 2026, the American Heartland Theme Park will transform the economy and infrastructure in nearby Vinita.

Preparing for a High-Tech Future

In the world of polytechnics, job growth is imminent. And now, Oklahoma has just the school to meet those industry needs. The OU Polytechnic Institute (OUPI) is preparing for the high-demand jobs in this quickly changing sector. Located on the University of Oklahoma – Tulsa Schusterman campus, existing space is being re-purposed to fit the school’s needs. Plans to create a cyberrange and lab space, which are essential for a hands-on approach, are in the works.

“We are in the process of hiring and developing new programs, additional programs and building labs,” says Teri Reed, Ph.D., director of the OUPI.

An Overview

The 21st century polytechnic world, Reed explains, is about high-demand technologies and preparing workforce-ready students. Workforce needs include the high-tech fields of cybersecurity, plus the aerospace and defense sectors.

“The OUPI will be responsive to industry needs in the city, state and region,” she says.

OUPI’s schooling, which is termed the “bachelor’s completion program,” is designed for those who have already finished freshman- and sophomore-level classes elsewhere. The students then come to OUPI, which will provide the upper-level classes needed to graduate with a cybersecurity degree. Classes will be in-person and hands-on.

“We are looking for students interested

in cybersecurity, data analytics and future technology,” says Reed.

Building the Program

OUPI serves as a workforce solution to the increasing demand for credentialed workers in critical science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields, providing bachelor’s completion and graduate degree programs focused on innovation and advanced technology.

In an effort to make the region a hub for growth and new jobs, the OUPI curriculum is developed with input from industry partners.

“This workforce development,” says Reed, “is a big piece of what the Polytechnic will provide.”

A Quick Timeline

June 2022: OUPI was approved by the OU Board of Regents;

Spring 2023: The Board approved the first OUPI program, the Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity;

May 2023: This first program was approved by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education;

August 2023: The application process began;

August 2024: The target date for OUPI classes to start.

Economic Impact

Globally, Reed reports, there are over 4.4 million jobs in computing and information technology alone. According to the school’s website, 400,000 cybersecurity jobs are available in the U.S. Approximately 4,000 of those jobs are located in Oklahoma, with 600-plus jobs in the Tulsa area. Opportunities are growing daily.

“We are in a high-demand area for jobs that require a technology-related degree,” Reed says.

Employment

OUPI’s short-term goals are to produce students who are agile, creative and on the cutting edge of technology, or “truly robot-proof.” These students will think at higher levels, be able to integrate and have a systems mindset. They will also have the critical thinking component needed by employers.

“So,” Reed says, “our graduates will have that agility to keep up and make pivots in their careers as the technology and world changes.”

GINA A. DABNEY

The OU Polytechnic Institute will set up students for successful careers in a dynamic industry.

Bringing together a bevy of bright minds, the OU Polytechnic Institute aims to begin classes in August of 2024.

Photo courtesy OUPI

Protecting the State’s Vulnerable

The Wildlife Diversity Program focuses on rare, declining and threatened species.

The Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation’s Wildlife Diversity Program (WDP) was established in 1981. Focusing on rare, declining and threatened species, as well as common species not hunted or fished, the program has an important impact on the health of Oklahoma’s ecosystem.

As an example of the program’s efforts, Oklahoma State University led a state wildlife grant project in 2003 which brought about a series of alligator snapping turtle projects. As a result, the Tishomingo National Fish Hatchery reintroduced the species into several watersheds.

In July 2022, the WDP launched two projects connected to the Red Slough Wildlife Management Area (WMA). The WMA covers 5,280 acres in McCurtain County and includes mudflats, emergent marshes, bottomland hardwood, areas of lowland/upland prairie and permanent reservoirs, as well as a waterfowl refuge.

These two 2022 projects spotlight the small alligator population in and around the WMA. In this case, the program is partnering with Southeastern Oklahoma State University and Southeastern Adventist University for a two-year study involving the native alligator population, including developing a long-term management plan for the species. This project began the department’s first official assessment of Oklahoma’s alligator population.

These are examples of projects connected to the WDP’s “Oklahoma Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy,” a guide

document used to help conserve wildlife and maintain Oklahoma’s rich biological heritage for present and future generations.

“This document is used to prioritize conservation issues and actions, and identify research and survey needs on species considered to be of greatest conservation need,” says Jena Donnell, the department’s communication specialist. “The strategy primarily focuses on the distribution and abundance of wildlife – including low and declining populations – describes their key habitats, and identifies conservation issues and the actions that may benefit the species. It is intended to provide broad, proactive guidance for conservation efforts of Oklahoma’s rare and declining species that can be used by any conservation-minded group or agency in the state.”

According to Donnell, the plan currently identifies 313 species of amphibians, birds, fish, invertebrates, mammals and reptiles that can be the focus of state wildlife grants. Through the grant program, the Wildlife Diversity Program and its conservation partners are addressing species such as the Texas horned lizard, alligator snapping turtle, tricolored bat and Eastern whip-poor-will. More than 100 grants have been funded in Oklahoma, and each provides more information about Oklahoma species.

Donnell says to remain eligible for state wildlife grant funding, the department must update its strategy every 10 years, and the department plans to have an updated strategy available in 2025.

CAROL MOWDY BOND

GETTING INVOLVED

Addressing how Oklahomans might contribute to conservation efforts, Donnell says, “sharing nature sightings is one of the easiest and most effective ways you can get involved. It’s something you can do whether you’re new to nature or have years of experience, and every sighting helps biologists learn a little more about our state’s natural resources. The specific what, when and where details of your sighting can help biologists track the status of fish, wildlife and plants across the state. These details, along with a photo, can be shared on free nature apps like iNaturalist or eBird.”

The Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation created the Wildlife Diversity Program to assist in looking out for endangered species around the state.

Photos courtesy the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation

Scooting Safely

If you’ve ever seen someone gliding past you on an electric scooter, looking like they’re having the time of their lives, you are not alone. The popularity of these contraptions has recently been rising in Oklahoma and all over the U.S. in the last half-decade. International companies like Bird and Lime seemingly plopped hundreds of thousands of scooters around the major metros overnight, and all a rider needs is a smart phone, a form of payment and a digital app to find and ride a scooter.

In 2021, Sen. Brenda Stanley (R-Oklahoma) was the principal author of a bill that regulated motorized scooters in Oklahoma.

The bill, which became a law later that year defined what type of vehicle can be classified as a ‘scooter,’ and outlined a few user requirements. An electric scooter is defined as:

· A vehicle having not more than three wheels in contact with the ground;

· A vehicle with handlebars and a foot support or seat for the use of the operator; and

· A vehicle with a power source capable of propelling the vehicles at a maximum designed speed of not more than 35 miles per hour on level ground.

The law also states a motorized scooter is not required to be registered in the state of Oklahoma and that the operator must be at

least 14 years of age, unless local ordinances apply mandating a higher minimum age requirement.

Municipalities have the authority to regulate the usage of motorized scooters on all public roadways, trails, sidewalks and other public spaces and to determine appropriate locations for their use.

All About Safety

The Consumer Product Safety Commission’s website offers great tips for staying safe on a motorized scooter:

· Always wear a helmet;

· Look for scooter damage before you ride;

· Be sure to test the brakes;

· Keep both hands on the handlebars at all times;

· Ride alone – more than one person on the scooter dramatically increases your risk of collisions;

· Follow the instructions of the manufacturer.

According to Carson Colvin, senior marketing and media relations officer for the City of Tulsa, scooter safety is a big focus for local officials.

“Scooter safety is extremely important in Tulsa following the rise of electric scooter rental companies that have popped up

around town,” he says. “Scooters are often used by people who made an impulse decision to ride them because of their easy availability on a street corner.”

Colvin notes this accessibility leads to unprepared riders who often do not have a helmet or don’t think about street and pedestrian safety.

“This can cause a myriad of safety issues, such as potential injury to the rider,” says Colvin, “or pose an obstruction to pedestrian sidewalk traffic.”

While Tulsa’s ordinance mandates scooter riders be 16 or older, Colvin points out that scooter manufacturers maintain the optimum age for riding is at least 18.

“Recently we launched a safety and mobility education program with advertisements strategically placed in high scooter and bike traffic areas to educate people on proper use and safety tips for scooter operators, along with other pedestrian-related safety messages,” says Colvin. “Bike Club is a great community partner of ours and they do a lot of work with local schools. As a city right now, we are focused on pedestrian education efforts through our safety and mobility campaign.”

Learn more atcityoftulsa.org/streetsmart.

DEBI TURLEY

Electric scooters are speedy and convenient – but many people don’t heed rider warnings before hopping on.

Right on Target

Trapshooting remains a popular sport in Oklahoma.

Trapshooting, an incredibly well-liked sport in the state of Oklahoma, originated back in the 18th century; it was well-established in England by the 1790s. The first recorded trapshooting event in the United States, however, took place in Cincinnati in 1831.

“The game started out shooting glass balls,” says Jeff Trayer, the Amateur Trapshooting Association Delegate for Oklahoma. Although live targets were used for a time, they have been mostly replaced now. Clay discs were introduced in 1880, with other disciplines like skeet shooting and sporting clays. After Jay Graham became the first American to win a gold medal for doubles trap, John Phillip Sousa decided to form the Amateur Trapshooting Association and served as its first president.

“Trapshooting was the first target shooting sport, and still by far the largest shotgun sport,” says Trayer.

The three types of trapshooting all have different set ups for the shooter. In regular trapshooting, targets are launched from one machine away from the shooter. With skeet shooting, targets are launched from two machines in sideways paths that will eventually intersect. Lastly, sporting clays is a much more complex version often called “golf with a shotgun” because of the multiple shooting stations laid out over a course.

Oklahoma has a variety of locations to practice and join competitions. Tulsa Gun Club has trap, skeet and clay shooting ranges, as well as archery and regular firearms. The Shawnee Twin Lakes Trap Club has a variety of targets at which to fire, up to 100 or ‘pay by the clay.’

Along with a plethora of tournaments held year round, the club also offers lessons from Greg Merlyn, a self-taught, former competitive trap shooter. He works with newcomers, parent and child duos, club shooters and even for corporate entertainment events.

There are three categories to choose from for trapshooting: singles, doubles and handicap. The targets are thrown by machines at ground level. For singles and doubles, there are five stations, 16 yards away. In singles, competitors shoot at five targets from each station. The machines move back and forth and fire at different arcs, which the competitor does not know beforehand.

In doubles, the machine does not move, but shoots two targets at the same time. Each competitor fires at five pairs from each station.

For handicap, the machine operates the same as singles, but shooters stand further away. The rules also specify that shotgun gauges larger than twelve are not allowed.

DREW JOSEPH ALLEN

TRAPSHOOTING TERMINOLOGY

Broken target: A target that comes out in pieces is declared “no target” and another is thrown.

Call: The signal given by the shooter to release the target. Usually the word “pull” is said.

Dead: A target that is broken by the shooter.

Field: The entire layout of the trap and shooting positions.

Junior: Any shooter under the age of 18.

Lost: A target that is missed completely or only dusted.

Pair: The two targets fired simultaneously during doubles.

Senior veteran: Any shooter who is 70 or older.

Squad: A group of shooters, up to five, who shoot together at one trap in rotation.

Straight: The breaking of all targets in an event.

The Good Kind of Tears

Oof the biggest characteristics of the Stillwater-born music known as Red Dirt is its emphasis on lyrics that are honest, real and sometimes painful. As befits a musical style that rose up in our agrarian state, it’s usually very close to the soil, metaphorically speaking, rooted deeply in the earth.

And, at the risk of torturing that metaphor, I’ll add that the music on A Pound of Rust, a new disc from Oklahoma native JD Graham, amounts to some of the deepest Red Dirt music ever recorded.

It’s confessional, it’s frank and it’s often brutal. At the same time, there’s a poetic quality to the lyrics that conveys some powerful imagery, and the unrelenting darkness in Graham’s songs can be downright cathartic.

“People ask me, ‘Do you always try to go so deep?’” he says. “I don’t really try. I don’t sit down with an agenda to write a song. It just comes. The majority of them are introspective, and I also write songs about the things I’ve seen out there. Living the reckless life I lived provides a lot of subject matter for a songwriter.”

Reckless, indeed. That’s where the darkness comes from.

“Until the day I signed my plea, I’d never had more than 40 or 45 days of sobriety in 20 years,” he says. “So with clarity came the need to get some things out, to write songs and to not be afraid of telling some dark stories.

“I get asked why I write such dark stuff. Well, I lived 95% of my life in the dark –that’s why. I’m not making this stuff up. If you were to make it up, I think it would come across as disingenuous at best.”

The plea he refers to happened in the Arizona courts, following a horrific car crash that landed him in the state prison for five years. It turned out to be the end of a torturous path that had begun when he was a pre-teen.

“I had an anxiety disorder when I was 11, and they started giving me Valium,” he explains. “By the time I was 15, I was taking about everything that I could. I’d go to friends’ houses and get into their parents’ medicine cabinets, and get into my mom’s medicine cabinet. Benzos [benzodiazepines, which treat anxiety disorders] like Xanax and Valium and Klonopin were my first love, my drugs of choice for years and years. Then I detoxed off those and I started taking just copious amounts of opiates, mixed with all kinds of other things – mushrooms and acid and peyote and cocaine and meth, all the stuff people were doing in Oklahoma back in 1987 to 1991.”

Graham was living in Yukon then. And while it wasn’t Stillwater, ground zero for the Red Dirt movement – which was just beginning to coalesce during the time frame he cites – Yukon was the home of several musicians who would become associated with that genre. That list begins, of course, with Garth Brooks, who honed his blend of rock, country and folk music as a performer in Stillwater and, for my money, belongs squarely in the Red Dirt camp. But Yukon was also home to four guys who would form one of the most influential and successful of the Red Dirt bands – Cross Canadian Ragweed.

“Garth’s older than me, and I’ve never met him,” notes Graham. “But I was in the same grade as Grady Cross, and Cody Canada and Randy Ragsdale were a couple of years younger; they were in my little brother’s grade. Jeremy Plato

played bass in a metal band I had when I was growing up.

“Most of us lived in the same neighborhood. We went to the same school, we saw each other every day and we hung out a lot. But back in those days I was still a full-blown metalhead. I used to tell Jeremy Plato that my motto was ‘Happy sucks and sad rules.’ I’d go to his house and he’d be listening to Steely Dan and I’d say, ‘Man, that stuff ’s slow and weak.’

“My mind was not open,” he adds, “and I have a regret about that. I don’t like the fact that it took me 30 years to say, ‘You know what? I’m going to expand my horizons and not be so singular-minded when it comes to music.’ If I’d made the decision to give other music a chance earlier in my life, I think it would’ve changed the world for me. But unfortunately, I didn’t and it didn’t, and I continued on the path of self-destruction.”

However dark things got, music remained a part of his life. He went from playing guitar in metal bands to working open-mic nights as a solo act, singing songs he admired that included material from the repertoires of such Red Dirt acts as Brandon Jenkins, Stoney LaRue, the Turnpike Troubadours and his old pals in Cross Canadian Ragweed. After a few years of that, he began writing his own songs – for the first time. By this time, he was living in Arizona, where he began playing and singing in a band called Sour Diesel Train Wreck.

“I was on a lot of drugs back then, so I wasn’t writing a lot,” he remembers. “I think I wrote 15 songs, and we recorded

Musician JD Graham channels his dark past into making light for others.

Despite hardships and darkness in his past, musician JD Graham inspires others with his music. Photo courtesy Brandy Reed

nine or 10 of ‘em for our album. This was back in 2012. Over the next few years, my drug addiction was supercharged, and it was very rare that I wrote anything at all – until I went to prison and decided to get sober.”

A Pound of Rust is full to overflowing with reflections on his former life, bringing back lost loves, bad decisions and even minutia like the dismal look and smell of cheap motel rooms. A song about his days in Yukon, “Runnin’ Through,” ends with a startling demonic image, while the title track finds him telling the listener, “I’ve got some things to get off my chest/A few more words to rhyme while I’ve still got some melody left.” Those lines could serve as a statement of purpose for the whole record.

“The goal for this album,” he says, “was to just kind of let people know my story, help people heal through it, and to get me some credibility, so that I’m not just setting up in the corner somewhere in a place that only has live music on the weekends. And it’s done that.”

Among the gigs he’s gotten recently was one at the Cochise Country Music Festival, a two-day event featuring wellknown headliners that took place in March in Benson, Ariz.

“I got 40 minutes as the first act of the day, me and my pedal-steel player. When I was done, there was a line of about 60 people waiting to talk to me. After I was finished talking and hugging all these people, and listening to their stories, my right shoulder was soiled with tears. When you get 60 people, and you hear, ‘Hey, my dad just got out of prison, and I’m going to call him and get him up here so you can talk to him, because he’s struggling.’ Or, ‘I just lost my mother, and this song “The Glory of His Throne” meant a lot to me’ – that’s why I do this.

“I don’t play music for any other reason that to make a human connection,” he adds, “because I know there are people struggling right now the way I used to struggle. So that little patch of tears on my shoulder – it meant more than anything I’ve done this entire year. My goal isn’t making five million dollars or playing Madison Square Garden or being on the radio. It’s making that connection. And I know I can do it if I can just get people to listen.

JOHN WOOLEY

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

HOSPICE CARE

How can Hospice help veterans?

According to the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, a vast majority of veterans are not enrolled in VA and may not be aware of end-of-life services and benefits available to them, including the Medicare Hospice Benefit and VA-paid hospice care. Grace Hospice is proud to be a We Honor Veteran community partner, which means our staff and volunteers are educated on how to best serve veterans needing Hospice care and ultimately help them get end-of-life medical care and access to benefits they worked so hard for. Upon admission, we ask a series of veteran specific questions to learn about the patient’s time in the service and identify possible repercussions that we may need to address, e.g., exposure to agent orange, PTSD, moral injury as well as suicide prevention. In addition, veterans on our service receive a patriotic, handmade quilt, a certificate of appreciation of military service as well as pin with the according branch. We also have and always welcome more Vet-to-Vet volunteers who share that special bond and mutual understanding through socialization. Ask us how we can help your veteran navigate end-of-life care.

Livia-Nina Gosnell

Volunteer Coordinator / We Honor Veterans Champion Grace Hospice 6218 South Lewis Ave., Ste 1000 Tulsa, OK 74136 918-744-7223 GraceHospice.com

How can I handle market volatility as I approach retirement?

If you’re nearing retirement and worried about market volatility: 1. Concentrate on your financial goals. No one can say with certainty what will happen to stocks over the next week, month, year or decade. But what may be more certain is your financial goals for those timeframes. 2. Keep your emotions in check. Market corrections, dips and swings are inevitable for investors in the short term, so it’s important to look beyond the daily hype and headlines. 3. Reassess your portfolio according to your retirement date and risk tolerance. Keep in mind that each person has an individual comfort level with taking risks. You may find that your ability to handle market swings varies over time, particularly if you’ve experienced volatility in the past. Big market moves or dips may be a good time to step back and evaluate your portfolio according to when you anticipate needing to generate income from your investments.

DAVID KARIMIAN CFP®, CRPC®, APMA®

MEDICAL DIRECTOR OF AESTHETICS & WELLNESS

DR. CRISTIE HAWKINS

SUNG KANG

LIVIA-NINA GOSNELL

LIFE & STYLE

Frolicking in Roatán

Honduras beckons with nature, dining, shopping and culture.

The curiosity for traveling has not waned – despite the hectic challenges the industry has endured over the last few years. Like historic explorers, vacationers must choose their routes carefully, minimizing airport connection waits, long taxi rides and excursion times that chop up your vacation days, interrupting your relaxation time. Honduras is a destination that can certainly achieve the latter.

From Tulsa or OKC, a one-hour flight to Houston and an approximate two-hour flight to Roatán, means you can have a noon arrival to this Central American and Caribbean paradise. Small Caribbean airports have an efficient and simple customs/immigration process. With Roatán being a small island off the Honduras mainland, this makes

your taxi ride to your lodging short and sweet. Check-in time is succinct within your arrival, which means you can realistically be on the beach by mid-afternoon. Bienvenido a la playa!

Honduras attracts scuba divers and retirees alike, and this combo makes it a carefree environment. The Reef Beach House in Sandy Bay has everything one needs; plenty of room, a guest apartment, kayaks, paddle boards, snorkel gear, a semiprivate beach and good security. Walk the beach to the nearby taverns where you’ll savor the blazing sunsets and enjoy live music. Although there are many excursions, you may want to maximize your relaxation time and focus on frolicking. The shallow shore, sandy beaches and sea creatures keep one occupied. Excursions are informative, but

The island of Roatán, off the coast of Honduras, welcomes tourists from around the globe.

Photos by Gina Michalopulos Kingsley

frolicking is restorative. Sink into the shallow shore, roll in the sand and swim out to the reef. Watch children lift a conch shell under a palm tree and find large crabs hiding underneath. Gaze at the boats on the horizon, watch locals fish for barracudas, and enjoy the gray-colored egrets catching food. Do yoga and meditation on your deck. Stretch into your pose and observe the gull gliding overhead on one side of you while feeling the palm breezes on your other side. This is the perfect soundscape with only a simple trill from a tropical bird.

Stroll the beach and interact with those around you.

Teen volunteer groups harvest mangrove trees in greenhouses to grow and plant along the shore. Fun facts about mangroves:

• They remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere;

• Mangrove forests are the home to many species;

• Their roots filter pollutants from the water;

• Mangroves are a natural coastal defense against storms and sediment;

• They’re a basin of the marine food chain.

Village children run back and forth across backyards in a progressive playdate style of socializing. Take a drive out to West Bay and West End for a different energy. Visit Spanish Stone village for the elevation point to view the cruise ships on the coast. Roatán’s lush and verdant hillsides are the epitome of jungle imagery. There’s much development occurring in Roatán, so consider scheduling a trip there while it still has undeveloped areas.

GINA MICHALOPULOS KINGSLEY

Restaurants to try:

Gio’s – Seafood and pasta

Oasis – Global fusion, brasserie style

Sunken Fish – Traditional Caribbean

Blue Bahia – Traditional Caribbean, seafood and healthy snacks

Excursions and galleries to try:

Waves of Art Gallery in the West End

Mangrove Tunnel Tours

Chocolate and rum factories

Eco walks and suspension bridges

Gumbalimba Park and island tour

Horseback riding

Monkey and sloth parks

Top tips:

The popular Honduran food is the baleada, which is a wheat tortilla-filled treat of various ingredients. Many street vendors sell delicious varieties of empanadas, too. Get into the local spirit by riding in the public vans which make many stops along the Roatan island. In a $1 ride, you’ll capture cultural nuances.

Understanding Celiac Disease

Some people may label a glutenfree diet as a growing trend, but for those living with celiac disease, it’s a necessary lifestyle for overall health and wellness.

James T. Phoenix, II, M.D., an internal medicine physician with Ascension St. John in Tulsa, explains that celiac disease is an inherited autoimmune condition that causes damage to the small intestine, leading to an intolerance to gluten – a protein found in wheat, barley and rye.

“An autoimmune condition means that a person’s immune system mistakenly attacks their own body,” says Phoenix. “In this case, it causes chronic inflammation of the small intestine that is made worse when exposed to gluten. The common symptoms are abdominal discomfort, fatigue, diarrhea and weight loss, and people may or may not be aware that certain foods trigger these symptoms.”

He adds that celiac disease is a relatively rare condition that affects approximately 1% of the world’s population and is most common in people of European descent.

“Gluten sensitivity is a more common dietary intolerance that affects an estimated 6% of people in the United States,” says Phoenix. “While it causes similar symptoms, it does not cause the same kind

of serious damage in the intestine that happens with celiac disease.”

According to the Celiac Disease Foundation, people with a first-degree relative with celiac disease (parent, child or sibling) have a one in ten risk of developing celiac disease – and the disease can develop at any age after an individual begins consuming gluten. In addition, individuals with celiac disease are at greater risk of developing coronary artery disease and small bowel cancers.

If left untreated, celiac disease can also lead to other health problems including type 1 diabetes, multiple sclerosis, dermatitis herpetiformis (an itchy skin rash), anemia, osteoporosis, infertility and neurological conditions.

“If a person notices that they have this kind of food intolerance, they should seek medical attention,” says Phoenix. “The most common test for celiac disease is a simple blood test, looking for the antibodies that cause the condition. It can also be diagnosed by intestinal biopsies, but this is usually not necessary.”

There is no known cure for celiac disease, and Phoenix says the main treatment for celiac disease or gluten sensitivity is to avoid gluten-containing foods.

REBECCA FAST

IS CELIAC ON THE RISE?

Anecdotally, it may seem like more people are developing celiac disease, but Phoenix says as with other food intolerances and allergies, it’s not becoming more common, but rather more commonly recognized and more publicly discussed.

“Our bodies are not really evolved to eat foods that are high in carbohydrates, including gluten-containing foods, so moderation in these foods is good for general health as well as for people that have a genetic intolerance to them,” says Phoenix.

When choosing food products, the Celiac Disease Foundation recommends consumers pay close attention to product labels. The FDA only allows packaged food to be labeled ‘gluten-free’ if it contains less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten. However, consumers should still check products for allergen listings and obvious ingredients: wheat, barley, rye, malt, brewer’s yeast and oats (unless specifically labeled gluten-free).

Different than general gluten intolerance, celiac disease comes with greater health risks.

Reflecting Your Best Self

Curating a professional online image can help you achieve your goals.

When you’re curating a professional online presence, it’s important to remember that the internet remembers everything you post – the good, the bad and the ugly.

Local and national organizations can help guide you in creating a snapshot that allows your background, skills and drive to shine above the rest of the crowd.

David Tollette, the executive director of Tulsa’s Young Professionals, says that creating a strong online presence “starts with deciding which platforms you choose to have a public presence on. Decide what is right for you and set your privacy settings accordingly. It’s okay to have both.”

He recommends having at least one online presence accessible to employers and the community at large. This could take the form of a personal website, a business website, LinkedIn or a social media platform.

“Your public presence should give others a sense of who you are, what you are passionate about, your education, experience and volunteer roles,” says Tollette. “Assume that employers will look at your online presence. I suggest researching yourself on your favorite search engines periodically. Look through the websites, photos and videos that are associated with your name.”

Jackie Gonzalez, TYPro’s 2023 chairperson, agrees and encourages everyone to think before posting.

“Someone once told me to think of it as a virtual office party – it’s a great place to show off skills, connect with friends

and have some fun,” she says. “But tread lightly when it comes to gossip or other workplace shenanigans. Definitely try to be consistent with your personal brand, and don’t post anything you’d be embarrassed about someone reading out loud or forwarding to your manager.”

Gonzalez suggests always using visuals as part of your storytelling and to have a headshot that reflects your own style.

“And make it easy for people to know how to get ahold of you,” she says.

OKC Young Professionals offers similar advice. Group member Michelle Crone, an account manager at Boiling Point Media, says that “the key to succeeding with [creating a strong, professional online presence] is making sure your personal life does not reflect poorly on your professional life. Life is all about balance – but keep in mind, everything you put online could be used against you.”

Crone suggests being genuine and authentic online, showing your personality and using a professional profile picture. As for things to steer away from, she recommends avoiding controversial topics unless that is part of your personal brand and you are willing to “take some heat” for it.

“Don’t bash anyone or anything,” advises Crone. “Employers will see that as you being negative.”

So what are the best sites for young professionals to be on?

“The top professional site is still LinkedIn,” says Crone. “So utilize that to its full potential. Optimize your profile, have peers write reviews about you, have a cool

cover image, share articles, post industry topics. Show that you are valuable!”

While Crone believes Facebook and Instagram are less important to employers, it is her contention that these same hiring managers will look at a LinkedIn page about 90% of the time.

“Be yourself – but if you consider your online presence not up to par with your professional goals, change it,” says Crone. “Delete some photos and posts. Allow your social media channels to reflect who you want to be, not who you’ve been in the past.”

DEBI TURLEY

KEEP YOURSELF SAFE

Getting online means potential security risks. Keep yourself and your information safe with the following tips:

• Know the effectiveness of the installed security tools you have on your computer and devices;

• Install and update antivirus software;

• Obtain a Virtual Private Network (VPN) and make the most of using it;

• Use a different password for all of your various logins;

• Avoid posting too much personal information online, like home addresses, financial statements or vacation plans/locations;

• Take advantage of multi-factor authentication.

1,900 annually, and where a Vietnam War-era Huey helicopter is on display. Museum Director Linda White says guests heap praise on the museum after they see it.

“We have visitors from all across the country, and many have told us that we are the best museum they have ever visited,” White says.

Especially interesting, White says, is a diner, relocated from downtown, that was frequented by singer Elvis Presley as he traveled the U.S. at the height of his popularity.

The Huey helicopter’s cement pad is unique, having been poured in the shape of the state of Oklahoma.

“The Red River was a challenge, but our contractor did a great job,” she says.

HENRY DOLIVE

The Weather’s Fine

churches and organizations following.

Travel – first by horse and buggy, then rail and automobile –has been important to Weatherford since its late 1800s birth on the western Oklahoma plains. Its importance continues today as Weatherford draws visitors who come for a variety of reasons. There, they find a bustling college community that boasts a thriving economy with a prosperous outlook.

A major draw, visible from I-44, is the Stafford Air and Space Museum, dedicated to the career of Gen. Thomas P. Stafford, one of America’s most renowned astronauts.

Weatherford also remains popular for people making a commemorative journey along Route 66. Mayor Mike Brown says “Mother Road” nostalgia continues to draw travelers –especially those looking ahead to the highway’s 2026 centennial.

A recent draw to the city is a replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall, located in the Weatherford Wind Energy Park. Brown says the wall has increased visitation manyfold.

“We’re just one spot in a long journey,” Brown says of his city, “but we want to make sure they see things while they’re here.”

In the meantime, there’s plenty of activity in this Custer County city of about 12,000, whose population swells by another 4,000 or so when classes at Southwestern Oklahoma State University are in session.

Weatherford was an agricultural community in its early days, according to the Oklahoma Historical Society. After the Choctaw, Oklahoma and Gulf Railroad arrived in 1898, shipping pens, depot, hotel and public water works followed. Its early “wild and woolly” days yielded soon enough to a tamer life for families, with schools,

Then came “America’s Highway,” Route 66. Elizabeth Amen, Chamber of Commerce director, says Weatherford is one of the few communities where the original highway runs right through the middle of town.

Integral to life in Weatherford is SOSU. Brown says the university is the city’s largest employer with an estimated 800 working there. SOSU offers 14 academic degree programs and more than 100 study fields, with branches in Yukon and Sayre and a host of online offerings.

The Stafford Air and Space Museum, meanwhile, features test-fired, flight-ready engines from both the U.S. Saturn V and the Soviet N-1 moon rockets. Considered one of the most comprehensive air and space museums in the central U.S., the museum encompasses 63,000 square feet and has the distinction of being a Smithsonian affiliate museum. A major expansion is under way, Brown says.

Another must-visit is the Heartland of America Museum, patronized by an estimated

City of Weatherford

580-772-7451 cityofweatherford.com

Southwestern Oklahoma State University

580-774-3063 swosu.edu

Weatherford Chamber of Commerce

580-772-7744 cityofweatherford.com/chamberof-commerce

Stafford Air and Space Museum

580-772-5871 staffordmuseum.org

Heartland of America Museum

580-774-2212

oklahomaheartlandmuseum.com

Weatherford offers a university, world-class museums and plenty of history.

The Stafford Air and Space Museum is dedicated to the career of Gen. Thomas P. Stafford, one of America’s most renowned astronauts.

Photo courtesy Stafford Air and Space Museum

No Limits in the Skies

“Since mid-2021, Tulsa International Airport (TUL) has welcomed twelve new non-stop destinations from four carriers –American, Southwest, Allegiant and Breeze,” says Andrew Pierini, Tulsa International Airport’s executive vice president and chief commercial officer.

And our state’s capital is staying competitive as well. Stacey Hamm, Oklahoma City public information officer and marketing manager for the department of airports, reports similar additions for Will Rogers World Airport (WRWA).

Within the past two years, she says, “WRWA has added new non-stop flights. Southwest is flying to Nashville, Austin and San Antonio, and also to Tampa on a seasonal basis. American Airlines now flies to New York La Guardia and Austin.”

The waning of the COVID-19 pandemic has lent itself to better flight numbers.

“Travelers changed once COVID left,” says Hamm. “We started to see more people travel for leisure. Some of those markets, such as Austin, San Antonio, New York and Nashville, are pretty hot spots for leisure travelers. When American Airlines launched and announced La Guardia, they were only flying there once daily. Over the past 1 1/2 years, that route has performed exceptionally well with not only business but also leisure travel-

ers. So they added a second daily flight there.”

Pierini adds: “Some of the most exciting growth markets have come from American Airlines, which has started non-stop service from TUL to Austin, Miami, NYC and Washington, D.C. In total, American has launched six new markets from Tulsa in the past four years. NYC, D.C. and Miami were our top three unserved markets before they both launched,” he says. “Both markets offer a solid mix of business and leisure traffic, and being able to be in either city in around three hours has been a game changer for the Tulsa market.

“Southwest has launched service to Austin, in addition to Chicago-Midway. Between the arts and music ties with Austin, to the up-and-coming tech scene in Tulsa, that market has been a huge success for Southwest. Chicago-Midway not only gives Tulsans another non-stop to the Windy City, but also opens a wide variety of connecting options throughout the Midwest and northeast USA.”

Pierini says government-related travelers are benefiting from non-stop service to D.C.

“The south Florida market has also taken off at an incredible pace,” Pierini continues. “The new non-stop from Tulsa to Miami has seen that same type of growth. American’s MIA hub also is a seamless connecting opportunity to the Caribbean and South America.”

Both Hamm and Pierini say growth, and upticks in traffic, have come after years of work. Officials representing both airports meet regularly with airline planners at conferences, analyzing numerous variables to make airline pitches.

CAROL MOWDY BOND

POSITIVE TOURISM EFFECTS

“The non-stop flights bring a lot of people to Oklahoma who may have never traveled here before,” says Hamm. “We are definitely on the map for people domestically and internationally to come to OKC. A lot of people fly into OKC to attend conferences. And equine brings a lot of tourism.”

Pierini says that in 2023, “[Tulsa International Airport] was named the overall winner, and small hub winner, out of North, Central and South America at this year’s Routes Americas Awards. This award is highly regarded in the aviation industry for recognizing marketing services that support new and existing air services, and excellence and innovation in route development.”

OKC and Tulsa’s airports are offering more direct flights than ever.

OKC’s Will Rogers World Airport, which has recently undergone major renovations, offers direct flights to a variety of locations around the U.S.

Photo courtesy Will Rogers World Airport

Shannon Hazen, Erin Engelke, Justin Brown, Sarah Stitt; Ripples of Hope Breakfast Fundraiser, Calm Waters Center for Children and Families, OKC

Danielle Campbell, Rebekah Stewart, Katie Dawson; Young Professionals Board Mixer, Care Center, OKC

Tarah Warren, Torrey Herndon, Tina Haskell, Brooke Unruh; Care Packs & Cocktails Gala, Tenaciously Teal, OKC

Lauren Corbut, Hamel B. Reinmiller; Employee Reception, Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits, OKC

Bethany Deason, Gini Moore Campbell, Shannon L. Rich, Michelle Sopp; 2023 Empowering Women Award Reception, Oklahoma Hall of Fame, OKC

Bobby & Meredith Wegener, Mark & Julie Beffort, Michael Anderson; Renaissance Ball, coming Sept. 8, Oklahoma City Museum of Art

Brad Carson, Toni Moore, Jennifer & Joe Potts; Hospitality Under the Stars, Hospitality House of Tulsa

John & Stephanie Rupe; Flight Night planning event, Tulsa Regional STEM Alliance

Colin Scarsdale, Al Colby, John Harper, David Hamilton; Great Futures Golf Tournament, Salvation Army - Tulsa Area Command

Diane Powell, Carmelita Skeeter, Jacob Guinan, Stacie Nutt, Nancy O’Banion; Indian Healthcare Resource Center ‘dementia friendly’ designation, Alzheimer’s Association - Oklahoma Chapter, Tulsa

Jerry Bates, Ryan Harper, Molly Jarvis, Vicki Patterson, Laura & Dan Smolen; Celebration of Completion for iNSPiRED Campaign, Riverfield Country Day School, Tulsa

A Plan for Success

Ever since the Land Run of 1889, territory has been an essential part of the identity and history of Oklahomans. Immortalized in our state song, “Oklahoma!” by Rodgers and Hammerstein, the words “we know we belong to the land / and the land we belong to is grand,” seem to typify the importance of our beloved red dirt. In the 1800s, staking a claim on land was relatively straightforward, but as our population density grew, so did the need to regulate land use.

Since the mid 1900s – 1949 for Oklahoma City and 1953 for Tulsa – land use, infrastructure planning, zoning and development have been coordinated largely through planning commissions. These consist of around a dozen citizens who are typically appointed by city mayors, in cooperation with a city council.

In OKC, the mayor appoints volunteer members throughout the year whenever a vacancy needs to be filled. Interested volunteers can submit an application any time online, and it will be retained until Dec. 31 of the current year.

Similarly, in Tulsa, the mayor appoints six members to the Tulsa Metropolitan Area Planning Commission, and Tulsa County appoints three additional members. The mayor and the chair of the

County Commission (or their designates) serve as ex-officio members, bringing the total TMAPC membership to 11. Appointed members serve on a volunteer basis for three year terms. Members serve until their terms expire or a successor has been appointed. Tulsa’s Planning Commission is a joint city/county venture, whereas in OKC it’s solely a municipal entity.

A planning commission’s main goal is to keep the community involved in ongoing conversation around land use and zoning. Both Oklahoma City and Tulsa have websites that keep the public informed of upcoming meetings, and each commission offers a variety of avenues to gather input and cooperation from civic leaders, businesses and residents. Any citizen can play a meaningful role in guiding the growth and development of a city.

The work of a planning commission is essential for creating a strong city, and each decision strikes a balance between economic development, essential services, environmental protection and innovative change. The work should take into account the current needs of the community while planning for future residents and their potential needs and desires.

An interesting example of this blending of current and future needs is exemplified

in the City of Tulsa’s Mixed-Use Rezoning Incentive Program. As Tulsa implements new Bus Rapid-Transit (BRT) routes, they’ve also developed a program to incentivize what is referred to as “mixeduse development.” Mixed-use zoning (MX) allows a blending of residential, office and retail uses within the same building or property, which can help make it easier to walk, bike or drive to locations one frequents near home – like grocery stores, pharmacies, restaurants and other stores.

To encourage pedestrian- and transitoriented redevelopment, the Tulsa City Council developed an incentive program which waives application fees (typically around $2,000) for owners of eligible properties along the BRT corridors on Route 66 and Peoria Avenue.

Both commissions also offer a process for requesting changes to zoning ordinances for property owners, usually through Boards of Adjustment, whose members are appointed similarly to the larger planning commissions.

Oklahomans who would like additional information can learn more from their respective city’s websites – cityoftulsa.org and okc.gov.

JEFF THOMPSON

Planning commissions look toward the future of Oklahoma’s major metros.

Thinking Green

Kimberly Burk

Turning to the Experts

When you hire a financial advisor, the assistance you receive is tailor-made, says Treana M. Lankard, vice president and branch leader for Fidelity Investments.

“Every investor has a unique situation, so we take into account the big picture,” Lankard says. “We look to understand their priorities, preferences and family dynamics to lay out the foundation of a plan that aims to effectively manage their wealth now and into the future. Once we have this framework, we can start to determine what kinds of accounts might best support and put their financial plan into action.”

The goal of a financial advisor “is to help you make your money work harder for you. In other words, we partner with clients to ensure that every dollar has a

purpose,” Lankard says. “At the end of the day, financial planning is collaborative and fluid – we’ll be there to help your financial plan adjust with you through all of life’s challenges.”

Myths, Debunked

Not all financial advisors are alike, and they are not just for the uber-rich.

The best way to separate fact from fiction is to interview financial advisors before you hire one, according to NerdWallet.com.

“Not only are there many different types of financial advisors, but advisors also make money in many different ways,” NerdWallet says. “Some advisors charge an ongoing fee based on the amount of assets they manage for you; some are paid commissions from the products they sell to you (annuities, life insurance, mutual funds, etc.) or from

trades they place on your behalf; and some charge an hourly fee for the services they provide. Often, it’s a combination of these methods. Don’t be afraid to ask any advisor what they charge and compare their fees to others before moving forward. “

For more than 75 years, Fidelity Investments has worked with all types of people to help them manage their wealth, says Lankard.

“Whether you’re looking for guidance on saving for retirement or need strategies to better manage your money, financial professionals help make your goals actionable by partnering with you to put a plan into motion,” Lankard says.

Financial advisors can help with budgeting, saving, investing and portfolio management, insurance coverage and retirement and tax planning.

The world of finance can seem complicated, intimidating and volatile ... but with the right help, you’ll be on the road to success.

By

How to Save Smart

Financial how-to articles offer similar advice when it comes to beefing up your savings and living below your means: track your spending, cut the frills, create a budget, stay out of debt and find a side hustle.

The lifestyle blog Kindafrugal.com also presents such tips, but with a more positive spin.

“Being ‘kinda’ frugal to us means finding joy in simplicity and embracing the art of maximizing our earnings and getting the best value out of every dollar spent,” the authors write. “It’s not just about saving money; it’s about creating a life that aligns with our values and dreams.”

Jessica Jones, senior financial advisor for BOK Financial Advisors, encourages people to “get into good habits as soon as possible. I like to coach my clients to live on 90%, put 10% of what they bring home into savings, or if they have an employersponsored plan, put in 10%. Get in the habit of telling yourself: ‘Not every dollar I make is available to me right away.’”

Young people are saving at a higher rate than some might think. According to the Federal Reserve’s Survey of Consumer Finances, Americans under the age of 25 had an average balance of $10,200 in their bank accounts in 2016. By 2019, the last time the survey was done, the average savings balance for that age group had grown to $11,250.

Risk Tolerance

When investing, the level of comfort you have is called risk tolerance, “and it’s essentially the amount of risk you are willing to take on your investments,” says Lankard.

“With lots of time on their side, young people may choose a high-risk, higher potential reward investment since they are able to recoup any losses over the long-term if an investment has a bad year,” Lankard says. “On the other hand, those closer to retirement may prefer investments that may be less likely to result in shortterm losses.”

But sometimes just the opposite is true. Jones says she also considers the experience level of her clients when advising about risk.

“If you are inexperienced, you might not be able to tolerate the level of risk that comes with age and experience,” Jones says.

Conversely, people with more experience at investing “might have a higher risk tolerance because you have a higher level of assets,” she says.

High Risk Investments

When considering whether a particular investment might be risky, Jones says she considers the client as well as the stock itself.

Jones says she would not patently warn clients away from MemeStocks, Bitcoin, options, mini-bonds or complex investments.

“Those types of alternative investments require a certain client,” Jones says. “For more experienced investors with more liquid assets, if you want to use that as an alternative to your overall position, that’s something we can look at exploring.”

With Bitcoin, “I’m not advising a client to dump their retirement into that,” she says. “We don’t have enough history on Bitcoin. It’s been extreme ups and extreme downs.”

When it comes to options, “I would not necessarily say they are high-risk,” Jones says. “They should not be used for everyday clients. I am typically only using them for very experienced clients.”

MemeStocks, which are shares of companies actively being traded, “are hot topics because they are in the news for something,” Jones says. “The risk in that is to be careful following trends. Make sure it matches your goals. Sometimes these companies might not even last.”

Financial Freedom

The road to financial independence “looks different for every individual,” says Jones. “I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all. There may be things that make my road different than yours.”

Lankard says that one of the best things to do to get started toward greater financial wellness is to create a plan.

“Your financial plan is a blueprint for managing your money, constructed on several key financial pillars: spending, saving for the future, managing debt, protecting what you already have and estate planning,” she says. “Understanding where you stand on each of these in the context of your longterm goals can help you remain flexible and change course should your priorities change or if life just gets in the way.”

Financial independence, Jones says, “means you are selfreliant. You have built a position for yourself where you are not dependent on the mortgage company. You have a steady stream of income, and are on your own without having to de pend on government assistance, a loan company [or] a credit card, and you are not using other people’s money.”

Credit Card Debt

Having credit card debt, “isn’t necessarily horrible,” says Jones. In certain situations, in fact, it might be a better option than tapping investment accounts.

During the early years of the COVID-19 pandemic, for example, “there were a lot of people without jobs for a long time,” Jones says. “I have clients whose jobs were put on hold. Unless they started depleting retirement accounts, they turned to credit cards.”

Once you have recovered from a financial crisis, impulse spending, medical emergency or whatever else landed you in credit card debt and are ready to wipe out the balance, it’s a good idea to call the credit card companies and ask about payment options, Jones says.

“You can also explore balance transfer options, which offer zero-percent interest for 12 or 18 months with a one-time transfer fee,” Jones says. “That fee will be much less than the interest you are going to pay.”

To free up money to make bigger payments, “start from the basics, look at where your money is going,” Jones says. “Look for the dollars and cents that are going places that can be put on hold. Starting is as easy as being disciplined enough to re-budget.”

3 questions to help you choose a financial advisor

By BOK Financial Advisors

More than half of Americans don’t have a financial advisor, according to a Statista survey. If you’re one of them, you risk feeling in the dark when faced with major life changes and even everyday financial decisions—and that can have a major impact on your finances.

As you embark on your search, here are three questions to ask prospective advisors, according to Jessica Jones, a senior financial advisor at BOK Financial Advisors:

1. What are your fees?

Most advisors do not charge a fee for an introductory conversation, Jones said. “Think of these initial conversations as opportunities to talk and seek out assistance,” she suggests. “Don’t hesitate to make the call. Don’t be intimidated.”

Then, once you choose an advisor, they should lay out a clear and transparent process for their fees and other charges, so there are no surprises.

2. Can you tell me a little bit about yourself?

Jones encourages clients to get to know financial advisors by asking questions about their experience and why they enjoy their work.

“A good relationship where both parties trust, know and understand each other can make planning and working together for years to come much easier,” she said.

3. How can I create the best retirement for myself?

Advisors should be able to respond with concrete next steps that take into account your unique situation, rather than giving a one-size-fits-all response.

In Jones’s words: “There’s an individual plan for each person. As advisors, we can bring that to life.”

Don’t wait until a major life event to make that first call

Embracing the Active Years

By Bonnie Rucker

The Pros of Volunteering

One innovative way for seniors to get moving is to dedicate their time to helping others. Volunteering helps keep bodies running, minds nimble and hearts softened.

Tara Powell, director of education and training at Cedarhurst at Woodland Hills, explains how its communities organize events for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s to benefit the Alzheimer’s Association.

“Our team members, residents, family and loved ones are always welcome and encouraged to attend,” she says. These events are a great way to stay active and support an important cause.

“Covenant Living at Inverness offers both short-term and longterm volunteer opportunities,” says Sharon Goforth, resident life director. “We have residents who volunteer with other levels of care

on outings, pushing wheelchairs, reading to residents, providing Bible studies, giving of their musical talents and other needs.”

The benefits of volunteering for seniors – or anyone – are vast.

“Volunteering adds to anyone’s sense of purpose,” says Goforth. “It also provides social interaction with those of like interests. Our residents are not isolated because of volunteer opportunities in the community.”

Staying Fit, Staying Safe

Many of these volunteer opportunities bring groups of seniors together while they get out and about. Participating in group activities is a proven way to stay motivated toward movement goals.

“Having a friend join a fitness class with you is helpful to keep

Staying active is not just a young person’s game. In fact, moving our bodies may even be more important as the years go by. There is no reason the 65+ crowd has to sit idle; we explore the many ways seniors can stay motivated.

Covenant Living at Inverness emphasizes a focus on holistic living for its residents. Photo courtesy Covenant Living at Inverness

With fitness activities, plenty of recreation and a variety of community gatherings, retirement communities are better than ever.

Left and right photos courtesy Cedarhurst at Woodland Hills; middle image courtesy Covenant Living at Inverness

you consistent – which seems to be the case for anyone at any age,” says Powell. Cedarhurst offers dedicated staff members who provide encouragement and help tailor fitness programs, including tai chi, yoga, cardio and more, to keep residents interested and building strength and improving balance. For those who prefer a more competitive component to their exercise, they can participate in cornhole tournaments, chair soccer, balloon volleyball and horseshoes.

While staying active can lengthen and improve anyone’s life, it remains important to know physical limitations, especially as we age. Considerations such as beginning an exercise program gradually, making sure to drink plenty of water while exercising, wearing appropriate clothing and footwear, and consulting a physician before starting a new exercise program are always important, but can be especially critical for seniors to keep in mind.

Goforth mentions that Inverness residents “have access to welltrained fitness professionals who stay abreast of education and safety. We also partner with our on-campus therapy department for

programming and recommendations when needed.”

At Cedarhurst, leadership emphasizes the importance of checking with a physician to ensure the safety of a new exercise plan.

“Our Life Enrichment team members also encourage residents to do what the body allows, and they also offer modifications to the exercises for anyone that may have limitations,” says Powell.

Exercising the Brain

The many benefits of staying active – especially when done carefully and in groups – go well beyond the physical.

“Exercise has been proven to help brain health simply because of the vascular benefits,” says Goforth.

At Covenant Living at Inverness, they pair brain challenges with physical exercises for even more advantages for the residents.

These types of activities are beneficial because mental health and exercising the mind as we get older are just as important as keeping the body active. And living within a community means that many seniors have a lot of opportunities to increase their mental acuity.

“Residents in our community have the opportunity to participate in activities which improve brain function,” says Goforth. “They exercise their brains together while laughing and encouraging one another.”

They offer resident-led activities such as art and bridge, as well as programs on technology and other topics of interest.

“We implement brain-boosting food in dining with our Crafted by Cedarhurst program, as well as brain-boosting activities which can be done in social settings such as trivia-type games including Jeopardy, brain puzzles and charades,” says Powell.

Senior living communities are also vital in caring for a special group – residents living with dementia. At Covenant Living at Inverness, for example, they “offer a non-pharmacological program … [that] pairs supporters with learners [with dementia] for brain exercise. This brings enhancements and blessings to both sides of the table,” says Goforth.

A variety of living arrangements and ample social opportunities make Cedarhurst an ideal community for seniors. Photos courtesy Cedarhurst at Woodland Hills

Perfecting Vacation Safety

Vacationing can be an excellent way to stay active and continue learning as an older adult. But as we age, there are new considerations when it comes to staying safe while traveling. Powell offers these suggestions:

1. Be sure to let someone know the address where you’ll be staying;

2. Ensure that you have your cell phone, any accompanying chargers, and your purse or wallet with your ID inside;

3. Know your body’s physical limits and take necessary breaks;

4. Be mindful of your surroundings and research the area you’re visiting so you are familiar with the terrain and other safety concerns that might arise;

5. Check beforehand for the presence of stairs or steep areas you may have to walk during your trip. If you are not booking the lodging yourself, be clear with whomever is about any limitations you may have;

6. Have a talk with your doctor if you are unsure about your limitations preventing you from being able to enjoy parts of the trip;

7. Stay hydrated and use sunscreen for any prolonged outdoor activity.

A Focus on the Holistic

A move toward a more holistic lifestyle for older adults is a major trend for retirement communities. Both Inverness and Cedarhurst work hard to keep up with these changes and stay on top of what their residents want and require.

Powell mentions that it is important to have a focus on how today’s seniors want to spend their time. They have noticed changes as newer generations begin to move into the community. She mentions that today’s seniors tend to have much more familiarity with technology and more awareness of the importance of a physical lifestyle.

This “allows us to change our programs to be relevant to their lifestyle choices,” she says. “Residents in our communities want opportunities to continue enjoying things they were active in before moving in and to continue learning and growing as well.”

At Covenant Living at Inverness, activities are always steered by the desires and input of the residents. Everyone wants to know they have control over the choices of activity available to them.

“The lifestyle is designed to provide a variety of experiences to lessen stress, improve health and mobility, and improve nutrition,” describes Goforth. Inverness also utilizes their network of 19 other communities within the Covenant Living organization to stay on top of best practices and cutting edge principles.

So whether seniors are taking advantage of active volunteer opportunities or exercising their brains and bodies, staying active can lead to a longer, healthier, more fulfilling life. There is not a substitute for an active lifestyle, no matter a person’s age.

Photo courtesy Cedarhurst and Woodland Hills

Photo courtesy Covenant Living at Inverness

Photo courtesy Covenant Living at Inverness

The of Collegiate Sports

Student athletes have a laundry list of responsibilities. Along with securing wins for their teams, they’re also expected to focus on academics, keep up a positive public image, foster sportsmanship and represent their schools well. We explore the many ways that college leaders help these students succeed –both on and off the field.

By Tracy LeGrand

Hazing: Is It An Issue?

Hazing – a ‘rite of passage’ groups invoke to embarrass new members – is a controversial subject. Some believe light hazing can bring people or team members closer together. College officials, on the other hand, don’t tend to share that viewpoint.

“Hazing in its different forms can undermine any organization,” says Gavin Lang, associate A.D. of communications for Oklahoma State University Athletics. “The best way to stop hazing is through proactive communication from the coaches to student-athletes – that hazing is not acceptable, and that there are consequences. If hazing does happen and the coach is unaware, it’s important for student-athletes to communicate it to the coach, and for the coach to bring it to an end. Without a clear set of expectations and communication, the problem grows.”

Many school leaders, after seeing the sometimes fatal consequences of hazing, take a zerotolerance approach.

“We do not have a tradition of hazing in athletics at The University of Tulsa,” says Rick Dickson, vice president and director of athletics at the University of Tulsa. “It is inconsistent with who we are. Hazing is not tolerated – much less condoned – at TU. Following a recent incident at Northwestern, we met with our teams to clearly state this type of conduct is unacceptable and to provide educational and training components for our student-athletes.”

The University of Tulsa works diligently to create well-rounded athletes, on and off the field.

Photo courtesy TU Athletics

Driving Excitement

Some sports naturally draw fervent crowds and don’t need gratuitous marketing or bonus fluff to get people excited … while other sports may benefit from incentivizing attendance.

“Every sport is as important as the next. Football and basketball are on a bigger stage, provide a larger revenue stream and are sports that draw more spectators, but we want all our studentathletes to experience the best atmosphere possible,” says Dickson. “We try to create an environment and a pricing structure for all sports that make it affordable and fun for fans to attend soccer, volleyball and softball just as easily as basketball and football.

“Home events for cross country, golf, tennis and track are free and open to the public. We take great pride in being a well-rounded program of excellence. The fact that we enter year ten in the American Athletic Conference with the most championships of any other league school is evidence of that exceptional success.”

OSU also takes a proactive approach to sports attendance.

“There are countless ways to incentivize attendance for sporting events other than football and basketball,” says Lang. “Of course, it helps when the team is successful or when it’s playing a high-stakes game, but at Oklahoma State, the big thought is that we want our fans to feel a connection with the teams and the student-athletes, that goes beyond wins and losses – we want them to see our studentathletes as people. If fans connect with our studentathletes as people, the chances improve of fans wanting to show support by going to the games.”

The record-breaking OU Sooners softball team won another national title in 2023.

Photo by Mike Houck, OU Athletics

OSU Athletics works to create connections between teams and students, thus maximizing excitement and attendance.

Photo courtesy OSU Athletics

Teaching Sportsmanship

In today’s highly competitive sporting atmosphere, spectators have come to expect the occasional postscore hijinks. Some athletes are even known for being cocky, brash and unsportsmanlike – and they may be popular because of it. College coaches and officials, however, are working to teach sportsmanship – no matter the situation.

“Sportsmanship is critical to a good experience for the teams and the fans at college athletic events,” says Dickson. “TU emphasizes the importance of good sportsmanship with our studentathletes overall, and our coaches continuously reinforce this with their teams. Our actions should reflect the high standards of integrity and ethics that characterize participation in the highest levels of competitive sports.”

Respect for the sport itself can be key.

“There is a balance when it comes to sportsmanship,” says Lang. “The student-athletes who make it to this level are remarkable at what they do and for most, a fiercely competitive nature serves as a competitive advantage. That said, the game needs to be respected. That’s where program culture fits in. Coaches in particular set the expectation for what is and what isn’t acceptable. Those conversations happen in a variety of ways – sometimes with the whole team, sometimes on an individual basis.”

College athletes are taught to handle disagreements, controversial calls, wins and loses with grace. Sometimes, this includes penalties.

“In some sports, the game polices itself as it pertains to sportsmanship,” says Lang. “One example is football, where there is an actual 15-yard penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct. Basket ball has technical fouls. Beyond in-game consequences from the sport’s rule book, sportsmanship is an area where coaches set and enforce team culture. If a student-athlete does something unsportsmanlike, it is not uncommon for the coach to take him or her out of the game, and depending on the severity of the offense, to suspend the student-athlete – or worse.”

Sportsmanship and respect for other players are key components to collegiate sports.

Photo by Mike Houck, OU Athletics

Photo courtesy TU Athletics

Photo courtesy OSU Athletics

Photo courtesy TU Athletics

Athletes and Media: Expectations

As if playing a sport and getting an education aren’t enough of a challenge, student athletes are expected to deal with the media, too, from press conferences, interviews and deals, to how they present themselves on social media.

“Student-athletes have a heavy load to carry with academics, athletics and other activities,” says Dickson. “Media is a part of it, but it’s fit around the student-athletes’ schedules.”

Lang continues: “Student-athletes from all sports at Oklahoma State get media exposure, which is a good thing, because it’s proof that people care. Every interview is a chance to tell your own story, your own way and to be a positive ambassador for the team and school. Not everyone is comfortable going on camera or speaking to reporters, but just about everyone understands the value of granting interviews. The expectation at OSU is that student-athletes and coaches participate in interviews when requested. There are times when it doesn’t work out, but for the most part, it’s not a problem.”

Student athletes at Oklahoma State University often participate in media interviews to help team and school exposure.

Photo courtesy OSU Athletics

Photo by Mike Houck, OU Athletics

Being a Student First

Students – whether athletes or not – deal with academic rigor, study hours and an expectation of integrity. This can be a challenge for students playing athletics at a high level with much on the line outside the classroom. Schools find different ways to ensure that athletes place their education and student experience first.

“At TU, our students’ well-being and academic lives come first,” says Dickson. “We take every step possible to ensure each student-athlete receives the support they need in all aspects of their college experience.”

The University of Oklahoma also places an emphasis on the academic life of its athletes.

“The University of Oklahoma Athletics Department employs a holistic approach to developing studentathletes beyond their time competing,” says Mike Meade, OU’s senior associate athletics director for academic services. “OU Athletics’ Prentice Gautt Academic Center is a comprehensive support services unit for intercollegiate student-athletes, offering a wide array of services to ensure students prioritize their academic goals and responsibilities.

“Within the Academic Center, OU provides its studentathletes with access to a full staff of academic advisors and learning specialists; a career center with ample resources for students to prepare for life after college; centers for math, tutoring and foreign language, designed to meet student-athletes precisely where they are academically; study abroad opportunities that seek to broaden student-athletes’ perspectives; and PROS, or Psychological Resources for OU Student-Athletes, which features a team of licensed psychologists who deliver premier mental health care services for student-athletes’ academic, athletic and personal success. Beyond these support services, OU Athletics has cultivated an environment that places a premium on education above all else, with everyone from the athletics director to head coaches to support staff ardently supporting the mission and ensuring OU’s student-athletes are positioned for success academically.”

OSU also dedicates resources and staff to guaranteeing student athletes have a balanced, overall student experience.

“We’re very fortunate here at Oklahoma State to have a dedicated staff in our Academic Enrichment Center, led by long-time director Dr. Marilyn Middlebrook,” says Lang. “She is so closely woven into the student-athlete experience that many call her ‘Mom.’ In partnership with the individual sport coaches, Dr. Middlebrook and her team ensure that academics are taken seriously.”

Paying Student Athletes

“Most in major college athletics don’t have an objection to student-athletes profiting from their name, image and likeness,” says Lang. “The NCAA’s interim policy says using that as a recruiting inducement to come to a school is illegal. Schools are doing it anyway and not being punished. Once that is sorted out, things have a chance to get better.”

To showcase these industry leaders, Oklahoma Magazine presents Faces of Oklahoma –which shines a well-deserved spotlight on those who make Oklahoma a better place to live, work and play. From healthcare experts to construction professionals, jewelers and wealth managers, the following companies stand out as the unique face of their field.

Behind every great company is a hardworking team that contributes to the diverse economic fabric of our state. These individuals spend their days creating quality products and services, ensuring clients, customers and patients get exactly what they need, when they need it.

When deciding which businesses to trust, turn to the Faces of Oklahoma.

Discover the true difference of genuine luxury at Diamond Cellar—Your True JewelerTM. In 2006, Diamond Cellar purchased Bruce G. Weber Precious Jewels – a longstanding Tulsa favorite for luxury brands. As Weber looked toward retirement, he wanted to ensure the company remained family-owned and was focused on selling only the best brands. Weber approached his longtime friend, Andy Johnson, to continue this legacy. Both men shared a love for jewelry and a passion for customer care, so it felt like a perfect fit. In 2022, the name changed to Diamond Cellar, with an expanded selection of jewelry plus a new store on Cherry Street. Johnson’s Co-

lumbus, Ohio-based Diamond Cellar has set the standard for authentic craftsmanship, unparalleled expertise and exceptional customer service for over 75 years.

Only a True Jeweler offers creation, curation and caretaking of all luxury jewelry and timepieces. From engagement rings to statement pieces, our creations are meticulously crafted, elevating each design to a work of art. Our roots are in the goldsmith trade and our team of master artisans possesses unparalleled skill and expertise, ensuring that every piece surpasses the highest standards of quality.

We take great pride in creating trust and genuine lifelong friendships with our cus-

tomers. We offer an exceptional shopping experience with personalized service and attention to detail, guiding you to the perfect piece that reflects your unique sense of style. We represent some of the best brands in the world with more than 50 designer partners. We guarantee the authenticity and ethical sourcing of our diamonds and gemstones, ensuring that every purchase is a conscious one. Trust and integrity are the cornerstones of our business.

Visit us at Diamond Cellar, where luxury, artistry and unmatched service converge to create an extraordinary experience. We’ve got something for everyone to help you make memories that will shine forever.

Diamond Cellar staff

FACESofTulsa FACESofOKC SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

THE FACE

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FACESof FACESofTulsa FACESofOKC

CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES ROSS GROUP

Ross Group began as a small contracting company based out of Catoosa, Oklahoma, in 1979, when Jesse Ross founded J. Ross Acoustics and Drywall. The company specialized in carpentry and interior finishes and quickly earned a reputation for quality construction, professional excellence and good old-fashioned hard

work. In 1996, Warren Ross joined his father in the business and The Ross Group Construction Corporation was incorporated in the great state of Oklahoma. Building on each other’s strengths, the father/son duo used their knowledge and reputation to make a seamless transition into general contracting.

Since its incorporation, Ross Group has evolved into a development, engineering and construction firm serving private, commercial and government clients under the leadership of CEO Warren Ross. Working hand-in-hand with our clients, we provide industry-leading solutions in a variety of markets, such as medical, avia-

tion, hospitality, education, government, manufacturing, industrial, and oil and gas. By offering an integrated suite of services to fit any need in any market, we commit to achieving our client’s vision for each project.

While our company has grown to include more than 130 employees spread

across two offices, we are still a roll-upour-sleeves and get-to-work kind of place. Just like our founder Jesse, our leadership and staff realize that companies don’t build projects. People do. We are team players who will help anyone who asks, regardless of our titles, because we know we all succeed or fail together. With that

in mind, Ross Group’s dedicated employees continue to build our firm’s reputation through our actions, while delivering tangible benefits to our clients as a onestop-shop for project delivery. Visit us at withrossgroup.com to learn more about how Ross Group can help your make your vision a reality.

From left to right: Bobby Spurlock, Tyler Buchanan, Tracy Hembree, Clint Black, Brandon Robbins, Eli Kieslich, Dallis Reed, Victor Tobin, Kyndra Walker, Chris Bynum

FACESof

FACESof FACESof

Dr. Mark Blubaugh

ER & HOSPITAL

Dr. Blubaugh is a native Oklahoman. Born and raised in Ponca City, Oklahoma, he attended Northeastern State University, then pursued his medical education at Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine, graduating in 2001.

After residency, Dr. Blubaugh spent the next 13 years practicing and teaching emergency medicine at Oklahoma State University Medical Center. During this time, he saw the need for more personalized, patient-focused care.

Since 2019, Dr. Blubaugh has been a founding partner at two of Oklahoma’s only physician-owned micro-hospitals,

Tulsa ER & Hospital, and Oklahoma ER & Hospital. Both hospitals were designed by emergency physicians in an effort to improve the access and quality of emergency care and hospital services. Local ownership and management allow for the hospital to adapt to the needs of the community. The physicians are able to customize services for community providers and patients without the bureaucratic delays and hurdles, typical of larger corporate health systems. Emergency room services, observation care, inpatient care, outpatient imaging, outpatient laboratory services and outpatient therapies are offered

at both facilities.

Tulsa ER & Hospital and Oklahoma ER & Hospital are the only facilities in Oklahoma that offer outpatient services 24/7 without an appointment. Dr. Blubaugh is currently the Medical Director at the Tulsa facility. This position has afforded him the ability to spend more time with patients and experience both the administrative and political aspects of healthcare within the state.

For Inner Good (FIG) Medical Spa, located in Tulsa, is known for its expertise in the science of anti-aging for face and body rejuvenation. Under the direction and supervision of Cristie Lehr-Hawkins M.D., Fig offers the latest treatments for the face, hair and body.

The staff at Fig brings multiple years of experience in patient care and is dedicated to providing the most innovative treatments for their patients. Fig is honored to have won numerous awards for Best Medical Spa, Skin Care, and Wellness Center in Tulsa, the state of Oklahoma and nationally. Fig has also been awarded Oklahoma Magazine’s The Best of the Best Award in 2021, 2022 and 2023.

Medical and wellness services offered at Fig include dermal fillers, injectables,

microneedling, PDO threading, weight loss programs and hormone therapy. They also provide a full range of laser treatments and aesthetic services.

Some of the newest treatment modalities at Fig include Opus Plasma and TED. Opus Plasma is a skin resurfacing treatment using plasma energy and radio frequency to repair photodamage and treat the signs of aging with minimal down time. Fig is also the only medical facility in Tulsa to offer TED (Transepidermal Hair Restoration). This new treatment uses ultrasound technology to stimulate hair growth. The TED treatment is painless and needle-free with no downtime. TED is quick and beneficial for any individual suffering from hair loss or wanting to improve the appearance and health of their hair.

Fig carries numerous skin care lines such as SkinCeuticals, Caudalie, Revitalash, ZO Skin Health, iSClinical, Skin Medica, and Revision. Fig also has the SkinCeuticals SkinScope LED Lamp. With the help of the aestheticians and The SkinScope lamp, patients can learn about their visible and underlying skin imperfections and what products will work best for them. FIG recently launched its own skincare line, Fig MD. This medicalgrade skincare line is both preventative and corrective. Fig MD products are built on a layered system of the highest quality ingredients resulting in healthy and beautiful skin.

To learn more about Fig’s services or purchase products, please visit their website figtulsa.com. To schedule an appointment for a service or free consultation, call 918932-8810.

Dr. Cristie Hawkins and staff

With over 60 years in business as a familyowned company, Airco Service has a reputation for reliability, along with the trust of customer who count on us for excellent service, honesty, and integrity. Airco of-

fers 24/7 service for all your home needs. With the largest service area in Oklahoma, Airco Service provides customers with the highest quality products and maintenance available in the areas of heating, air condi-

tioning, plumbing and generators. We are a one call does it all company, with certified, trained technicians along with excellent customer service. Call or text us, Airco is home services made easy.

THE FACE OF RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE CHINOWTH & COHEN REALTORS

Chinowth & Cohen REALTORS® is the largest independent real estate company in the state of Oklahoma with more than 700 associates, 15 real estate offices and over $2 billion in annual sales. Founded in 2004 by Sheryl Chinowth and Lee Cohen, the company has seen rapid growth and expansion over the years, with the help of sons Leland and Taylor Chinowth.

And while Chinowth & Cohen is a leading luxury real estate company in the nation, at its core, C&C is a local, family-owned and operated enterprise that prioritizes investing in their agents – paving the way for individual success.

Realtors love being a part of Chinowth

& Cohen because of the tools they are equipped with in order to make them as effective and successful as possible. Aspiring and new agents have the Chinowth & Cohen Real Estate Academy with an extraordinary team of educators and trainers, who also offer a plethora of courses for existing Realtors to further their education in real estate.

Chinowth & Cohen also prides itself on its large, award-winning in-house marketing department, a one-stop shop for agents to get all the graphic design, digital media, printing, photography and videography services right within the company.

And because real estate is really about people and making genuine connections,

the profound level of investment in people goes beyond just the real estate business. Chinowth & Cohen supports dozens of non-profits and charitable organizations throughout Oklahoma and encourages their agents to get involved and be present in the communities they serve. Chinowth & Cohen’s mission extends beyond just helping Oklahomans buy and sell homes - it’s about building community.

Affiliated with the largest referral networks in the world, such as Leading Real Estate Companies of the World and Luxury Portfolio International, Chinowth & Cohen agents are ready to provide you with the elite experience in buying or selling your home.

Grace Hospice is one of the oldest hospices in the Tulsa area, having served Green Country and beyond for over 20 years.

While traditional health care only concentrates on treating a patient’s illness, Grace Hospice also focuses on offering comfort and compassion to patients, family members and caregivers. Executive Director, Rachel Arnold, MHA and Certified Hospice Manager, and her interdisciplinary team of Hospice professionals are able to deliver a higher standard of care by meeting the physical, social, emotional and spiritual needs of each patient and their loved ones.

From the first visit through our last,

the Grace Hospice difference is evident. Patients needing help are admitted within 24-hours of referral. Grace works with every patient, family and primary care physician to create a customized care plan. After a patient passes, the Bereavement Team provides support through mailings, monthly grief support groups, phone calls and visits. Grace Hospice is also one of the few Hospices in the state to receive a 4-star CMS Family Satisfaction Rating.

Grace Hospice’s team of physicians, nurses, aides, social workers, chaplains, volunteers, therapists and dieticians all work together as a cohesive unit. “Our team

allows family members the opportunity to be family members and to be present. It is such a blessing to be able to give a patient and their loved ones quality time together for however long we can, free of the burdens of caregiving, planning, medication management and pain,” says Executive Director Rachel Arnold.

At the end of life, most people want to stay at home, surrounded by family and friends, with symptoms and pain under control. By focusing on the whole individual, not just the illness, Grace Hospice honors life’s final journey, leaving a legacy of compassion and caring.

Front row, L-R: Dr. Michael Gorman, Rachel Arnold – Executive Director, Tifafny Hughes – Business Manager Back row, L-R: Michek Swift – LPN, David Peterson – Chaplain, Amber Rasnake – Account Executive

THE FACE OF WEALTH MANAGEMENT DAVID KARIMIAN

David Karimian is a Tulsa native who graduated from Jenks High School and the University of Oklahoma. Upon graduation, David started in the wealth management industry and quickly became a licensed financial advisor, and soon after, a Certified Financial Planner®. This year, he was even named as one of Forbes’ Best In-State Wealth Advisors.

David’s firm name is Prime Wealth Management™ a Private Wealth Advisory Practice of Ameriprise Financial. David and his team specialize in comprehensive financial planning and unique asset management strategies, helping his clients reach their financial goals.

David says “everything begins with learning what is important to the client, what they would like to achieve, and then crafting a personalized plan that they can follow to help them feel confident about working towards their goals.”

Investing is a big part of the plan, but David believes starting with a well thought out plan can help clients achieve better outcomes. Before one starts a business, they must first create a business plan, David says. People should approach their personal financial goals the same way. Once a plan is developed, David and his team go to work on executing it, and investing is an important piece of the puzzle. David believes in creating custom investment portfolios that are tailored to fit the client’s unique situation. David has been helping people feel more confident about their financial futures for over 15 years. He enjoys working with clients very closely – creating deep and meaningful relationships.

David lives in midtown Tulsa with his wife Sarah and daughter Isabella. You can find them in their off-hours at a local park or enjoying one of Tulsa’s many fine dining restaurants.

David’s office is at Southern Hills Tower, and he welcomes anyone to visit who would like a complimentary consultation or guidance on how their plan might be working for them.

of

THE FACE OF INTERIOR DESIGN LANCE CHENEY RICHARD NEEL HOME

Interior designer Lance Cheney, head “Style Coach,” helps clients find their personal style. His goal is to enhance and encourage each client by getting to know their families and sometimes, most importantly, their pets!

Modern, traditional or anything in between, the team of Lance Cheney (owner/ designer) and Alison McFarlane (designer) will work to develop their client’s individual design vision.

Lance Cheney Richard Neel Home, the oldest brick and mortar interior design company in Tulsa, offers full-service interior design alongside a fine home furnishings store that also serves as a resource and inspiration for many local design professionals.

“My store represents many design styles – modern, traditional, vintage. We help you find your style, not ours,” Cheney says. “Every design is one-of-a-kind.”

The 4,000-square-foot retail space features the designer studio alongside everything from art and furniture to lighting, accessories, fabric, and wallpaper –everything needed to furnish a home.

Lance Cheney, Alison McFarlane

THE FACE OF COMMERCIAL ARCHITECTURE KKT ARCHITECTS

At KKT Architects, we are a full-service architectural, interior design, and structural engineering firm that is passionate about improving lives and enriching the community. We are local by design, engaged in Oklahoma’s future by aligning closely with community-based organizations focused on improving quality of life in our state.

Our firm is approaching its 35th anniversary, and we are excited to announce the launch of our new Oklahoma City office space, broadening our visible presence in the metro community, in addition to our main headquarters in Tulsa.

Our professional team of over sixty-five Architects, Interior Designers and Structural Engineers is ready to continue to build partnerships.

Our reputation is built on innovative design solutions, client partnership throughout design, elevated customer service, repeat clientele, and adherence to project budget and schedules. Our team of professionals is led by Sarah Gould, President and CEO. We are dedicated, nimble and proactive through the leadership of our experienced Principals and Department Leads who keep our projects and

teams organized and running smoothly. We consistently utilize our resources to address the most complex projects and aggressive schedules while remaining 100% committed to meeting our client’s needs and exceeding their expectations.

By staying true to an inclusive design process, we have been able to consistently design high quality, signature projects in many communities — each building distinctly reflecting the image of the organization it represents.

Creating spaces begins with your idea. Let’s get started!

Sarah Gould and KKT Leadership Team including (L-R), Brandon Hackett, Yolanda Wright, Liz Rohrbacker, Francis Wilmore, Sarah Gould, Pam Deatherage, Angela Sexton, Kate Cofer and Jim Boulware.

Dr. Matthew Walker and Dr. Brian Gosnell and the team at Utica Dental offer patients a truly relaxed, professional, state-of-theart experience, with beautiful results from the moment they walk through the door. Conveniently located between 15th and 21st Street on South Utica Ave. in Tulsa, Utica Dental provides patients with peaceful, serene views out of the floor-to-ceiling windows while the dental team provides gentle care. Television monitors allow patients to get comfortable and watch a favorite show or movie. Want to hear music instead? Just ask Alexa to play it while in the dental chair.

Dr. Walker and Dr. Gosnell provide

cosmetic and family dentistry to patients of all ages. General restorative care, dental implants, Invisalign, teeth whitening, root canal treatment, extractions, crown and bridge, preventative hygiene care, sedation dentistry, nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and full mouth transformation procedures are all available at Utica Dental.

Our hygiene staff is one of the best in the area. We offer many different techniques to make your visit with us as comfortable and painless as possible. We are a family-based practice so all members of your family can be seen in the same office, no more traveling to different offices for dental care. We take pride in the care that

we give to our Utica Dental family.

Infection control and sterilization are top priorities at Utica Dental. Using the most up-to-date, strictly followed CDC guided sterilization procedures and products, Dr. Walker and Dr. Gosnell are committed to creating a sterile environment for the safety of every patient and team member.

Utica Dental is an Oklahoma Magazine “The Best of the Best” recipient, and Dr. Walker and Dr. Gosnell continue to elevate his dental techniques to provide the best dental care to patients. Dr. Walker and Dr. Gosnell encourages you to come and experience Utica Dental, where every patient is a priority and truly a member of the family.

THE FACE OF DENTISTRY UTICA DENTAL DR. MATTHEW WALKER • DR. BRIAN GOSNELL & HYGIENE STAFF

THE FACE OF CORNEA AND EXTERNAL DISEASES DEAN MCGEE EYE INSTITUTE

The cornea is the outer layer of the eye, the clear window that focuses and bends light as it enters the eye, allowing for sharp vision. It also acts a protective barrier against dirt, foreign objects and bacteria. However, if the cornea is affected by injury, disease or infection, vision can be compromised.

That is when the expertise of the cornea and external disease specialists at the Dean McGee Eye Institute (DMEI) – Dr. Rhea L. Siatkowski, Dr. Kamran M. Riaz, Dr. Aman Mittal and Dr. David W. Jackson – can help save a person’s vision or even their eye.

According to Dr. Siatkowski, “While we treat patients with common corneal conditions, such as dry eye and pink eye (conjunctivitis), we are also experienced in handling more serious conditions such

as bacterial infections caused by improper contact lens hygiene, corneal ulcers, and hereditary diseases such as keratoconus and Fuchs’ dystrophy.”

As Dr. Riaz explains, “We treat the full range of corneal pathology and regularly perform complex corneal surgeries. When it comes to these types of cases, the level of expertise our surgeons have makes DMEI the referral center of choice for all of Oklahoma and the surrounding region.”

Should the cornea, or certain parts of it, no longer function properly there are options available to the surgeons at DMEI. “Luckily, the cornea is one part of the eye that we can successfully transplant,” states Dr. Mittal. “Using donor tissue, we can actually restore visual function that has been lost due to disease or damage. This can be

life-changing for the patient.”

If your cornea is otherwise healthy but you would like to improve your vision without glasses or contacts, the corneal surgeons at DMEI can help you with this as well. “Refractive surgery such as LASIK or PRK can correct a wide range of refractive errors, including nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism,” states Dr. Jackson. “As LASIK and other refractive technologies continue to advance, we at DMEI remain on the cutting edge.”

If you have been diagnosed with a corneal disease, suffered damage to your cornea, or want to correct your vision, the skilled physicians at DMEI are ready to help. Call 405-271-1095 to schedule an appointment or learn more at dmei.org/servicesspecialties/cornea-external-diseases/.

Aman Mittal, MD

David W. Jackson, MD

Kamran M. Riaz, MD

Rhea L. Siatkowski, MD

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FACESof FACESof

THE FACE OF HEALTH INSURANCE SUNG KANG

Sung Kang, an Oklahoma insurance professional, treats his clients with the same care and respect he gives his own parents.

Hailing from Tulsa, Oklahoma, Sung’s roots trace back to a long-standing, local, family business — a martial arts school recently marking its 50th-year anniversary. At Kang’s TaeKwon-Do in Tulsa, Sung and his family have been imparting the essence of Traditional TaeKwon-Do since his father started the business in 1972. Sung holds titles such as Oklahoma State and US National Champion, and has a Silver Medal from the 1989 U.S. Olympic Festival in Oklahoma City. He further honed his skills training alongside world-class athletes at the United States Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs. Returning to Tulsa,

Sung established his own TaeKwon-Do School, shaping students’ lives by nurturing their mind, body, and spirit.

Today, Sung Kang is the Executive Sales Leader at HealthMarkets in Oklahoma City, leading the OKC HealthMarkets team of 60 agents. As a licensed insurance agent, he specializes in assisting retirees during their Medicare transition. His primary mission is to protect seniors from predatory practices and deceptive marketing prevalent in the industry. Sung believes seniors deserve undivided attention in healthcare decisions, as negligence could result in serious financial consequences. He urges agents to become trusted advisors, treating clients like family to establish lifelong relationships and enhance their own finan-

cial success through client loyalty and referrals.

With a thriving business, Sung is dedicated to guiding his team toward prosperity. He instills the values from martial arts training in his agency, placing integrity above all else. Creating a supportive “family-like” environment, Sung ensures every individual receives care and respect.

Radiance Medical Aesthetics is proud to bring Beauty by the Best!™ to Oklahoma City as the premier destination for aesthetic treatments. With over 90 years of combined experience, the professional team at Radiance Medical Aesthetics is dedicated to helping their patients feel and look their very best with results-driven treatments.

Radiance was founded by Kasey L. Swayden, PA-C in 2020. With over a decade of experience in Aesthetic Medicine, Kasey dreamed of opening a Medical Spa that was centered on skin health and built around a professional team that delivers advanced cosmetic treatments in a beautiful, spa-like atmosphere. Today, Kasey’s dreams have become reality, and patients travel from all

over for the advanced aesthetic treatments at Radiance Medical Aesthetics.

Under the supervision of Board Certified Dermatologist, Dr. Tracy Kuykendall, Radiance offers a variety of industry-leading treatments and technologies to achieve the best results for their patients. From advanced injectables like Botox and dermal fillers, to state-of-the-art Sciton lasers, HydraFacial and SkinPen procedures, the team of professionals have curated a comprehensive selection of treatments designed to address various aesthetic and skin concerns.

Since opening in 2020, Radiance Medical Aesthetics has evolved into one of Oklahoma’s most recognized names in Aesthetic Medicine. The team has earned numerous

accolades, including being named “OKC’s Best Medical Spa” by Oklahoma Magazine and several other local publications.

In 2022, Radiance doubled the size of their office and their team, and expanded their menu of services to include The Perfect Derma Peel and Moxi Laser Resurfacing. RMAOK continues to grow in 2023 by investing more than ever before in continuing education and staff training, and adding Genius Microneedling + RF (non-surgical skin tightening), Daxxify – the newest wrinkle relaxer to hit the market – and medically-monitored weight management.

To learn more about Radiance Medical Aesthetics of Oklahoma and to view their services, visit rmaok.com

Kasey Swayden, PA-C and staff

of FACES

FACESof

Jeff Baird, Beth Ruddle, Matt Thompson

Founded in 1992 by Bret Chandler, RibCrib lit its first smoker in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Opening its doors with a menu of four meats and three sides, the brand has grown to 45 locations in Oklahoma and neighboring states. Matt Thompson, vice president of operations, says the secret to RibCrib’s success is its authenticity. Every location smokes its meats on-site daily, using only split-green hickory, crafting the unmistakable flavor fans have loved for 30 years.

What truly defines RibCrib? Its core values.

“’Make Every Rib Righteous’ isn’t just a slogan we use during training. It’s our pledge to always go the extra mile,” Thompson says. “We’re driven to never settle, to innovate and to invest in our team and guests. Our communities are an enormous part of RibCrib’s success.”

Community engagement is central to RibCrib, with initiatives ranging from school sponsorships to a semiannual golf tournament that raises funds for local charities. Looking ahead, RibCrib has plans. Adapt-

ing to the ever-changing food scene, they’re working to make barbecue accessible to more people. They’re also refining their scratch side recipes and rethinking their loyalty program to reward guests more.

As RibCrib looks forward to smokin’ the good stuff for the next 30 years, Thompson’s vision is clear: “We’re focusing on a 21st century smokehouse experience, ensuring RibCrib remains a go-to for barbecue enthusiasts.”

FACES FACESof FACES SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION 918.712.7427 | 4535 S. Harvard Ave., Tulsa | ribcrib.com

Festival Preview

Tulsa Greek Festival

Take an impromptu trip to Santorini, Greece, at the annual Tulsa Greek Festival, running Sept 21-23 at the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church.

Food takes center stage at this event, with options including lamb, spanakopita, Greek-style green beans, gyros and calamari. Head to the bakery to enjoy baklava, finikia, kourambiedes and koulourakia.

Tulsa Oktoberfest

If you haven’t yet made it to one of Oklahoma’s most anticipated annual festivals, you’re missing out. Tulsa Oktoberfest returns to River West Festival Park from Oct. 19-22, celebrating 44 years in the metro.

A love of Bavarian culture is at the heart of Oktoberfest, with activities to entice like bier barrel racing, stein hoisting, dachshund dog races and live music. If you’ve come for food and drink, you won’t be disappointed; 200 German and local beers are on tap, along with traditional cuisine options like Bavarian cheesecake and strudel, wienerschnitzel and brats. Among the other offerings within the 140,000 square feet of fun include carnival games, rides, a variety of stage performances and VIP experiences.

Modeled after the Oktoberfest Munich in Bavaria, Germany, Tulsa Oktoberfest even flies in authentic bands from Germany. The event was named a Top Five Oktoberfest by USA Today, Conde Nast Traveler Magazine and Orbitz. Get your tickets at tulsaoktoberfest.org.

Get your shop on at the market, with local wares, festival goodies, jewelry, imported foods and more. Other activities include live music and dancing, a Toga Run with a 5K, church tours and wine tastings. For more information, visit tulsagreekfestival.com.

Choctaw Nation Labor Day Festival

Sept. 1-3

Tvshka Homma Tribal Grounds, Tuskahoma choctawnation.com

Dusk ‘Til Dawn Blues Festival

Sept. 1-3

OK Blues Hall of Fame dcminnerblues.com

Cherokee National Holiday

Sept. 1-3

Various locations, Tahlequah thecherokeeholiday.com

Watermelon Festival and Community Fair

Through Sept. 2 Main Street, Ringwood Bluegrass and Chili Festival

Sept. 8-9 Downtown Wagoner bluegrasschilifest.com

Wine & Art Festival

Sept. 9

150 N. Front St., Eufaula visioneufaula.org/events

Coweta Fall Festival

Sept. 14-16

Hwy. 72 & Chestnut St., Coweta cowetachamber.com

Fall Fest

Sept. 14-Oct. 12

Collinsville Veterans Building collinsvillechamber.org

Valliant Watermelon Festival

Sept. 15-16

Valliant City Park valliantchamber.org/watermelonfestival

Arts ‘N Action Festival

Sept. 15-16

Tilman County Courthouse Square, Frederick ramonatheatre.com

Scotfest

Sept. 15-17

Broken Arrow Event Complex okscotfest.com

Los Festivales y Mercados: Día de Independencia de México

Sept. 16

First S. Lewis Ave., Tulsa visitkendallwhittier.com

Sand Plum Festival

Sept. 16

1102 Main St., Woodward woodwardmainstreet.com

While Oklahoma temperatures are finally falling, outdoor festivals are gaining major traction. You can find an event just about every weekend from September onward ... the hardest part will be choosing which to visit!

By Mary Willa Allen

Tulsa Oktoberfest; Oct. 19-22, River West Festival Park, Tulsa Photo courtesy Tulsa Oktoberfest

Tulsa Greek Festival; Sept. 21-23, Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church Photos courtesy TGF

Tulsa Regional Balloon Festival

Support a good cause and have a great time doing it at the Tulsa Regional Balloon Festival, benefitting Gatesway Foundation, at Broken Arrow’s Events Park from Oct. 27-28.

Gatesway, a nonprofit Oklahoma agency, encourages independence and provides opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities to live and work in the community. The foundation – which is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year – hosts the annual festival with over 30 hot air balloons from across the country. Guests can enjoy live entertainment, balloon competitions, arts and crafts, local vendors and plenty of delicious eats. Bring the kids for a children’s activity area, pony rides, a cupcake decorating contest and even lawn mower races.

Of course, the main draws are the hot air balloons themselves, from competition flights to tethered rides and balloon glows. Learn more at gatesway.org/balloonfestival.

Oklahoma International Bluegrass Festival

Guthrie’s Cottonwood Flats Recreation Area welcomes one and all to Oklahoma’s International Bluegrass Festival, an annual three-day event teeming with national and international bluegrass bands. This exciting event brings musicians in from across the globe and supports the bluegrass industry at large.

You’ll often stroll past talented artists jamming together in a casual, supportive environment. Plus, open mic nights allow for everyone to shine. You’ll hear everything from the titular music style to country, folk and even swing.

Don’t leave the kiddos at home. The Children’s Tent will teach kids about music history and offer arts and crafts projects they can take home. Lastly, the festival offers delicious eats and other concessions, as well as acoustic instrument dealers and the chance to camp out overnight. The fun runs from Oct. 12-14. Visit oibf. com for more information.

Robbers Cave Fall Festival

Arts and crafts vendors, delicious food and drink, amusement park rides and an entertainment stage are just a few of many draws at the annual Robbers Cave Fall Festival, running Oct. 20-22 at Robbers Cave State Park in Wilburton.

Along with the above goodies, the festival also features the Fall Foliage Cruise, described as a “pre-1984 rod, custom and classics car and truck show.” The cruise often attracts over 500 different car owners from a multi-state region.

The shops are a hidden gem at Robbers Cave. You’ll find a bevy of handcrafted items, from soap to pottery, yard art, jewelry and even cedar furniture. Delicious food and drink – like loaded baked potatoes and homemade root beer – will also be available, alongside barbecue, caramel apples and corn dogs. Free transportation shuttle buses are available to and from downtown Wilburton. For more information, visit robberscavefallfestival.com.

Artfest

Sept. 16-17

GAST Center, Tulsa gastulsa.org/artfest

Elk City Fall Festival

Sept. 16-17

Convention Center, Elk City visitelkcity.com/fall-festival

Tulsa Greek Festival

Sept. 21-23

1222 S. Guthrie tulsagreekfestival.com

Skiatook Pioneer Days Festival

Sept. 21-23

Skiatook Central Park skiatookchamber.com

Grape Stomp Festival

Sept. 22

Canadian River Winery, Lexington canadianriverwinery.net

Fin and Feather Fall Festival

Sept. 22-24

Fin and Feather Resort, Gore finandfeatherresort.com

International Festival

Sept. 22-24

Elmer Thomas Park, Lawton lawtonok.gov

Okeene Germanfest

Sept. 23

101 N. Main St., Okeene okeenegermanfest.com

Aviation Festival

Sept. 23

National Weather Museum, Norman ou.edu/airport

Fright Fest

Sept. 23-Oct. 29

Frontier City sixflags.com/frontiercity

Mesta Festa

Sept. 24

Perle Mesta Park, OKC mestapark.org

Pumpkin Festival at Shepherd’s Cross

Sept. 26-Nov. 4

Shepherd’s Cross shepherdscross.com/pumpkinfestival.html

Chalk It Up! An Art Festival

Sept. 29-30

Broken Arrow Rose District

arts302.com/chalk-it-up-2023

Broken Arrow Rose Festival

Sept. 29-30

302 S. Main St., Broken Arrow keepbabeautiful.org

Oklahoma Regatta Festival

Sept. 29-Oct. 1

Riversport OKC riversportokc.org

Rock Island Arts Festival

Sept. 29-Oct. 1

Rock Island Depot, Chickasha rockislandartsfestival.org

Plaza District Festival

Sept. 30

Plaza District, OKC plazafest.org

Fiestas de las Americas

Sept. 30

Calle Dos Cinco, OKC historiccapitolhill.com/fiestas-delas-americas

Oklahoma Heritage Farm Fall Festival

Sept. 30-Nov. 5

38512 U.S. Hwy. 75, Ramona okheritagefarm.com

Oklahoma International Bluegrass Festival; Oct. 12-14, Cottonwood Flats Recreation Area, Guthrie Photo courtesy OIBF

Robbers Cave Fall Festival; Oct. 20-22, Robbers Cave State Park, Wilburton Photo courtesy RCFF

Tulsa Regional Balloon Festival; Oct. 27-28, Broken Arrow Events Park Photo courtesy TRBF

OK Mozart Festival Oktoberfest

Oct. 1

415 S. Dewey Ave., Bartlesville okmmusic.org/events/oktoberfest

Pelican Festival

Oct. 5-8

Wolf Creek Park, Grove pelicanfestok.com

Oklahoma Czech Festival

Oct. 7

Main Street, Yukon czechfestivaloklahoma.com

Tallgrass Music Festival

Oct. 6-7

2967 W. 133rd St. N., Skiatook skiatooktallgrassfestival.com

Oklahoma’s International Bluegrass Festival

Oct. 12-14

Cottonwood Flats, Guthrie oibf.com

Arcadia Route 66 Neonfest

Oct. 13-15

13100 E. Old Hwy. 66, Arcadia facebook.com/arcadianeonfest

Red Earth Parade and FallFest Powwow

Oct. 14

Myriad Botanical Gardens, OKC redearth.org

Tulsa Oktoberfest

Oct. 19-22

River West Festival Park, Tulsa tulsaoktoberfest.org

Poteau Balloon Festival

Oct. 20-21

LeFlore County Fairgrounds, Poteau poteauchamber.com

Robbers Cave Fall Festival

Oct. 20-22

Robbers Cave State Park, Wilburton robberscavefallfestival.com

Oklahoma Highland Gathering

Oct. 20-22

Choctaw Creek Park, Choctaw unitedscotsok.com

Guthrie Wine Festival

Oct. 21

108 N. Wentz St., Guthrie heirdevents.com/calendar

Oklahoma Regatta Festival

Fans of the outdoors, sports, aquatic adventures and family friendly fun won’t want to miss the annual Oklahoma Regatta Festival, running Sept. 29-Oct. 1 on OKC’s Oklahoma River.

Hosted by RiverSport Adventures, the festival includes a variety of competitions. First up is the OG&E NightSprints on Friday for RiverSport Corporate Rowing and Dragon Boat League championships. Next up are the collegiate, masters and juniors racing events Saturday and Sunday. The events wrap up Sunday with Paddlemania, open to all, starting at noon.

For those more keen to stay on land, there will be plenty of live entertainment, food trucks and even a livestream to enjoy the competitions from afar. For more information, visit riversportokc.org.

Aviation Festival

Fly over to the University of Oklahoma’s Max Westheimer Airport for its annual Aviation Festival, Sept. 23 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Perfect for kids, kids at heart ... or really anyone interested in the ins and outs of aviation, the festival includes a variety of exciting static aircraft displays to peruse. Additionally, a Kid’s Corner welcomes Junior Sooners to chat with OUPD officer Volmmer and K-9 bomb dog Joe, along with OU mascots Boomer and Sooner.

For an educational component, visit the Sooner Flight Academy, which boasts hands-on hangar activities and STEM programs for all ages. You can also enjoy food trucks on-site. Parking and admission is free. For more information, visit ou.edu/airport.

Edmond International Festival

You’re in for an enriching cultural experience at the Edmond International Festival, running Nov. 11 at the Edmond Festival Market Place.

The event, established in 1975 at the University of Central Oklahoma, has grown to now include the entire city of Edmond. The school itself even has an entire week dedicated to international celebrations.

You will see a variety of countries, regions and cultures represented during the festival, with display booths, authentic eats, performances and toe-tapping music. This event celebrating the beauty of diversity is free to the public. For more information, visituco.edu/student-life/ihouse/international-festival.

Edmond International Festival; Nov. 11, Edmond Market Place Photo courtesy EIF

Oklahoma Regatta Festival; Sept. 29-Oct. 1, Oklahoma River, OKC Photo by Georgia Read

Aviation Festival; Sept. 23, Max Westheimer Airport, Norman Photo courtesy OU

Pecan Festival

Oct. 26-28

Downtown Okmulgee okmulgeechamber.org/pecanfestival

Tulsa Regional Balloon Festival

Oct. 27-28

1215 E. College St., Broken Arrow gatesway.org/balloonfestival

Hydro Harvest Festival

Oct. 28

Main Street, Hydro facebook.com/HydroHarvestFestival

Boo on the Bricks

Oct. 31

Downtown Pauls Valley paulsvalleychamber.com

Will Rogers Motion Picture Festival

Nov. 1-4

Will Rogers Memorial Museum, Claremore dogirons.com

Dia de los Muertos Festival

Nov. 3-11

Living Arts of Tulsa livingarts.org

Edmond International Festival

Nov. 4

Edmond Festival Market Place uco.edu

Chickasha Festival of Light

Nov. 18-Dec. 31

2400 S. Ninth St., Chickasha chickashafestivaloflight.org

Okie Winterfest

Nov. 25-26

Muskogee Civic Center okiewinterfest.com

Rock Island Arts Festival

Chickasha’s Rock Island Depot hosts the annual Rock Island Arts Festival from Sept. 29-Oct. 1.

Guests can expect everything from fine art displays to exciting live music and various art-based activities. Booths will line the train depot, filled with goodies like sculptures, paintings, wood crafts, ceramics, photography and handmade jewelry.

You can take a pit stop in the henna tent, or visit the wine and brewery booths for adult beverages. Saturday welcomes the Ride the Rock gathering – a bicycle tour replete with food from on-site vendors. Kids can enjoy sand treasure digs, inflatables and carnival rides.

For more information, visit rockislandartsfestival.org.

Oklahoma Heritage Farm Fall Festival

Venture to Ramona for the annual Oklahoma Heritage Farm Fall Festival, running from Sept. 30 to Nov. 5.

The farm, which boasts over thirty acres of greenery, will play host to a variety of events, including games, hay rides, family friendly activities, petting zoos and live entertainment.

You can also fully embrace the beauty of autumn with a 10-acre maze and smaller option for the kiddos. Other goodies include fire pits, shopping options and concessions. Make sure to stop by the pumpkin patch and grab a seasonal photo before you leave.

For more information, visit okheritagefarm.com.

Rock Island Arts Festival; Sept. 29Oct. 1, Rock Island Depot, Chickasha

Photo courtesy RIAF

Oklahoma Heritage Farm Festival; Sept. 30-Nov. 5, Oklahoma Heritage Farm, Ramona Photo courtesy OHF

TASTE

FOOD, DRINK AND OTHER PLEASURES

The World on a Plate

Aglobally inspired dining destination nestled in the heart of Oklahoma City, Riserva takes guests on a culinary journey that captures the warmth of Spanish tabernas, infused with the essence of Mediterranean charm.

The restaurant is the latest creation by Edmond-based Provisions Concepts, which has spearheaded other projects in the metro including Broadway 10, Sidecar Barley and Wine Bar, Hatch Early Mood Food and Bandee’s Barbecue.

Brianna Wolfe, brand director at Provisions, has some Riserva menu favorites.

“Indulge in the velvety richness of patatas bravas, adorned with a vibrant paprika aioli, and relish the zesty tang of our citrus-infused grilled shrimp and polenta,” she says.

She guarantees that as you enjoy your meal, you’ll realize that “each dish at Riserva Bar and Tapas is not only a feast for the taste buds – but also a visual masterpiece, enticing you with its delightful palette.”

The restaurant also boasts an extensive beverage menu.

“Enhance your experience with a curat-

ed selection of 80+ wines from across the Mediterranean and handcrafted cocktails that perfectly complement the diverse flavors of our plates,” she says.

Highlights include signature cocktails like the Brothel, with vodka, cracked pepper vermouth, olive juice, umami bitters and olives; and the Dama Blanca, with hibiscus tequila blanco, lavender syrup, hibiscus foam and rose dust.

With the comfort of diners in mind, plenty of thought was put into the architecture and interior design of the restaurant.

“Riserva is truly a place to escape that feels unlike anything else in Chisholm Creek,” says Wolfe. “If classic and cozy were both to be captured in colors, this would be it. We lead with a chocolate brown and walnut pairing, followed by pops of natural colors throughout. Our indoor-outdoor bar wraps around to seamlessly open up the restaurant, inviting you to indulge in the enchantment of alfresco dining.”

Alongside the well thought-out interior design, Wolfe says the food and cocktail garnishes create an even more colorful ambiance.

“Charm and vibrancy come into play with the supporting colors of fresh vege-

tables, succulent fruits and bright herbs of our plates and beverages,” she says.

Riserva’s curated, enticing menu is the creation of chef James Fox.

“Based out of Phoenix, Arizona, Fox threw the already culinary rich market for a loop when he opened his chef-driven restaurant, Vecina,” says Wolfe. “Fox’s concept was later nominated to become a James Beard finalist for Best New Restaurant. Provision Concepts has since been lucky to partner with chef Fox.” He also helms Provision’s steak/sushi joint, Culprits.

A few of Fox’s tapa options include short rib hummus, ground lamb flatbread, turmeric chicken kebabs and skirt steak shawarma. Desserts include cardamom date cake – replete with toasted walnut, tart cherry whip and butterscotch caramel – and a chocolate tart.

Chef Fox’s passion for memorable cuisine lends itself to an atmosphere of learning.

“Riserva’s menu and dining experience are meant to be fun and educational,” he says. “Items are presented in a shareable style – so you can try multiple things with friends and family. Get two or three dishes per person and share everything.”

TRACY LEGRAND

A sleek, stylish tapas bar in Chisholm Creek encourages diners to learn more about international cuisine.

Riserva’s market fish includes fennel, saffron tomato nage, turmeric rice, cara cara orange and ruby grapefruit.

Photo courtesy Provision Concepts

Franco’s

Frank Vivacqua has loved cooking for as long as he can remember. He was born into a large and loving Italian-American family in Chicago.

“From day one,” Viacqua recalls, “everything was big family parties, all the women in the kitchen making food, and me always asking questions, finding out from them how to cook. I never went to cooking school – but it’s in my blood, this passion for cooking.”

Frank’s father, Constantino, had a passion for the guitar. He played with his band at the swankiest restaurants on Chicago’s Grand Avenue. While the band played, Frank was in the kitchen, getting cooking tips from the chefs. Around 1990, he opened his own restaurant on Grand. At one point he had seven. But over time, they all closed down, he left Chicago, and now the only branch of Franco’s is in Broken Arrow.

Order what you like, as one longtime customer told us, “there’s nothing you can go wrong with.” The Chicago deep dish pizza, two inches tall, comes with a sauce that will make you swoon. Sauces are Franco’s strong point. He invented, through long trial and error, that glorious sauce. The marinara sauce on the arancini (be sure to order one!) is his grandmother’s recipe.

You can also get the thin crust pizza, invented in Chicago around 1940. Its crisp, salty crust is accented by house-made mozzarella and more of that tomato sauce, or with house-made sausage. (Ninety percent of what they serve, says Vivacqua, is made in-house.)

Dessert? Vivacqua’s wife, Shelley, is an expert baker.

As much as you eat, you’ll leave wanting more. So ... why, exactly, is the food so good?

“I’ve had 30 years to make it perfect,” says Vivacqua. “Besides, I love making food, it’s never a chore, and if you really love the food, it’s going to show.”

BRIAN SCHWARTZ

The Press

Located in the heart of OKC’s Plaza District, the Press offers reimagined classics with an atmosphere that’s anything but forgettable. With an extensive menu, including gluten free and vegan options, the Press fits the bill for delicious American food, made right.

The main menu features classic bar appetizers like nachos and larger-than-life mozzarella sticks, while also including Okie favorites like Cowboy Caviar.

Their “Main Thangs” scream southern comfort, with dishes including chicken fried ribeye, meatloaf, pot roast and fry bread tacos. Not to mention, there are a variety of different tasty sandwiches like the Dagwood (with dijon mustard, mayo, cheddar, provolone, ham, turkey, bacon and all the toppings), the vegan Sloppy Joe, and the Theta-ish burger, with mayo, bacon, BBQ sauce, cheddar, pickles and shoestring onions. Buffalo mac and cheese, the mashed potato bowl, chili, pork belly bowl and shrimp and grits are other popular choices.

If you’re looking for a lighter meal, the Press has a variety of salads, including the Cobb, Southwest, and grilled Caesar.

In addition, the restaurant has a killer brunch menu, including chorizo breakfast tacos, breakfast hash, pancakes and of course, boozy brunch drinks to start your day with a kick.

You’ll never get thirsty at the Press, as the restaurant has a full bar with a variety of different beers, cocktails and wines. Popular libations include the Oklahoma Lemonade, with bourbon, amaretto, peach lemonade, lemon, cherry and a gummy, and the Happy Happy Joy Joy, replete with lemon vodka, cappelletti, orange bitters, pineapple and cranberry juice, plus sparkling rosé.

SYDNEY L. NICHOLS

Photo courtesy Franco’s

Photo courtesy The Press

A Heart for Others

Lindsey Scotney aims to give chefs and other restaurant industry workers fair pay, great bene ts and plenty of gigs.

Everyone who meets her agrees that Lindsey Scotney is the kindest person around.

But, she says, “I became a chef out of spite. My cooking was so bad it was the family joke.”

As a gag, a relative gave her a cookbook, and she decided to cook every recipe in it. It didn’t take her long to fall in love, and she headed to culinary school at Platt. While there, she set up a program to give any leftover food to the homeless. These are the traits she’s exemplified all her life: she works very, very hard and she helps others.

She became a sommelier at Platt. After graduating, she assumed the beverage director position at Polo Grill, also doing anything else that needed to be done.

“I’d have four uniforms in my car, so I’d be prepared to cook food, serve food or advise on wine. After that, [Tulsa restaurateur] Justin Thompson stole me away.”

She became general manager at Juniper, a popular downtown Tulsa dining destination. At some point there, she ran into caterer and food truck impresario Joel Bein.

“I’d been his fangirl ever since I learned he donated much of his food to the homeless,” Scotney recalls. “We met and clicked immediately. The first day I worked was St. Patrick’s Day. We worked from 6 a.m. straight through till 2 a.m. the next day. It was just a lot of fun.”

Was that her toughest gig?

“No, that would be the day at Tulsa Tough when the power went out and we had to keep on serving. The thermometer in our truck read 160°. Joel works constantly, and if you’re his right hand, as I was, it’s nothing to work seventeen hour days for seventeen days in a row. We were a great pair: he, the wild genius chef, and me, the classically trained one.”

They worked together for three years. Then came COVID-19. Scotney, working on her own now, was told that no one could find workers for private events. They called it “the great resignation.” People don’t want to work anymore, they said.

Scotney set up a staffing agency anyway, called Ellis Hospitality. From the beginning, she was mobbed with applicants. Why? Scotney had a revolutionary idea. She pays everyone $25 an hour – everyone.

“People really want to work,” she explains. “They work so hard when they’re paid fairly. It’s wonderful to see what that extra pay does. Women leave abusive relationships; now they have the money to be independent. Servers free themselves from decades-long debt. We’ve had weddings. Couples finally have the money to get married.”

Scotney designed an app; it’s like Uber for chefs. Let’s say someone needs 40 servers and 15 cooks tomorrow evening. That goes on the app, and if you’re qualified, your cell phone will ring. Within five minutes, all

those jobs are gone. For Mayfest, it took 36 hours to fill 800 jobs, and it took that long only because they were catering LIV Golf the same week. Ellis does Drillers games, events at the University of Tulsa and a hefty heaping of elegant country clubs and restaurants. They might even be cooking your food tonight.

Most people who have a great business going say they want to help their workers. Scotney really does. She founded an organization that gets health insurance, retirement benefits and life insurance for workers in an industry that has often gone without. She’s planning an open commissary, a fully equipped kitchen for chefs who have catering jobs but no place to cook.

“My goal is to help the workers,” she says. Sean, her business partner, totally devoted admirer and husband, sums it up well: “She has such a heart for people.”

BRIAN SCHWARTZ

For a bonus recipe, visit okmag.com/aheartforothers

Veteran chef Lindsey Scotney runs Ellis Hospitality, a staffing avenue for chefs around the metro.

Photo by Stephanie Phillips

WHERE & WHEN

GREAT THINGS TO DO IN OKLAHOMA

EVENTS LISTED ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE. CHECK INDIVIDUAL WEBSITES FOR UPDATES.

IN TULSA PERFORMANCES

TULSA SYMPHONY PRES-

ENTS: PRELUDE Sept.

9 Tulsa Performing Arts

Center Tulsa Symphony Orchestra performs Beethoven’s 5th Symphony. tulsapac.com

CELEBRITY ATTRACTIONS

PRESENTS: JAGGED LITTLE

PILL Sept. 12-13 Tulsa Performing Arts Center This Broadway musical features the music of Alanis Morissette. tulsapac. com

WORLD STAGE THEATRE

COMPANY PRESENTS: A

MAN OF NO IMPOR-

TANCE Sept. 15 Tulsa Performing Arts Center Scrambled Egg Theatre Company of London, England, performs their show without any spoken word. tulsapac.com

JOHN CRIST Sept. 15 Tulsa

Theater Join social media star and comedian John Crist on the Emotional Support tour. tulsatheater.com

TULSA BALLET PRESENTS:

CREATIONS IN STUDIO

K Sept. 15-24 Tulsa Ballet

Theater Watch as Tulsa Ballet dancers perform new pieces from internationally recognized choreographers tulsaballet.org

THEATRE TULSA PRESENTS:

BEAUTIFUL Sept. 15-Oct.

1 Tulsa Performing Arts

Center Enjoy the true musical story of Carole King’s legacy. tulsapac.com

BOB DYLAN CENTER PRES-

ENTS: BERNIE TAUPIN –SCATTERSHOT Sept. 16 Tulsa

Performing Arts Center This is a celebration of Taupin’s memoir Scattershot: Life, Music, Elton, and Me. tulsapac.com

WHOSE LIVE ANYWAY? Sept. 23 Tulsa Theater Join the cast of Whose Line Is It Anyway? for a hysterical live show. tulsatheater.com

CELEBRITY ATTRACTIONS

PRESENTS: ALADDIN Sept. 26-Oct. 1 Tulsa Performing Arts

Center Enjoy a Broadway rendition of a Disney classic. tulsapac.com

SIGNATURE SYMPHONY

PRESENTS: BLUEGRASS TO

BOHEMIA Sept. 30 TCC Van

Trease PACE The 2023-2024

Signature Symphony season kicks off with one of our country’s most dynamic young violinists, Tessa Lark. signaturesymphony.org

PERFORMANCES

CREATIVITY ABOUNDS

Looking for live entertainment to finish out the summer? Luckily, September is jam-packed with extraordinary performances all across the state.

At the PAC, Tulsans can enjoy Prelude, presented by the Tulsa Symphony, on Sept. 9. For fans of female singer-songwriters, check out Jagged Little Pill, the musical backed by Alanis Morrisette’s extensive discography, presented by Celebrity Attractions on Sept. 12-13, as well as Beautiful, the true musical story of Carole King’s life, presented by Theatre Tulsa from Sept. 15-Oct. 1. For some family fun, Celebrity Attractions presents Aladdin from Sept. 26 through Oct. 1. Round out the month with Signature Symphony’s presentation of Bluegrass to Bohemia at the TCC VanTrease PACE on Sept. 30.

For those in the OKC area, there are plenty of live performances in September. Taking place on the 10th and 24th is the Sunday Twilight Concert Series, an evening filled with varying music genres and family friendly fun at the Myriad Botanical Gardens. Presented by Lyric Theatre from Sept. 13-Oct.

1, Concerto is a celebration of Tchaikovsky’s infamous 1878 violin concerto. On Sept. 15, enjoy the Oklahoma City Ballet’s presentation of Ballet Under the Stars. For the

CONCERTS

RUSSELL DICKERSON Sept.

8 River Spirit Casino Pop-country singer/songwriter Russell Dickerson performs at the Cove at River Spirit Casino. riverspirittulsa.com

REO SPEEDWAGON Sept.

9 River Spirit Casino

Resort Legendary rock band REO Speedwagon performs at the Cove. riverspirittulsa.com

TRACE ADKINS Sept. 15 Osage Casino Hotel Country singer/songwriter Trace Adkins returns to Tulsa. osagecasino.com

LOCAL NATIVES Sept. 17 Cain’s Ballroom Rock band Local Natives brings the Time Will Wait For No

One tour to Tulsa. cainsballroom. com

ALY & AJ Sept. 19 Cain’s Ballroom Pop duo Aly & AJ perform at

theatre aficionados, Oklahoma Shakespeare presents Romeo and Juliet from Sept. 14-24 at the Shakespeare Gardens. And you won’t want to miss Six – a pop musical about the lives of Henry VIII’s six former wives –presented by OKC Broadway at the Civic Center Music Hall from Sept. 26-Oct. 1.

Around the state, Medicine Park is hosting the Blues Ball at Town Center Mainstage on Sept. 1-3. Josh Roman, Oklahoma native and cellist, performs at Armstrong Auditorium in Edmond on Sept. 12. And last but not least, the New York Philharmonic visits Stillwater’s McKnight Center for the Performing Arts from September 22-24.

CELEBRITY ATTRACTIONS 1

Cain’s Ballroom. cainsballroom. com

NICKELBACK Sept. 21 BOK

Center Nickleback rocks the BOK. bokcenter.com

CARIN LEÓN Sept. 23 BOK Center Carin León brings the Colmillo De Leche tour to Tulsa. bokcenter.com

ALICE IN CHAINS Sept. 24 Tulsa

Theater Join these rock legends for night of old hits and new releases. tulsatheater.com

THE BEACH BOYS Sept.

28 River Spirit Casino Resort The Beach Boys bring their iconic beach rock to the Cove at River Spirit Casino. riverspirittulsa.com

ANN WILSON Sept. 30 River Spirit Casino Resort Rock icon Ann Wilson returns to Tulsa. riverspirittulsa.com

LUKE BRYAN Sept. 30 BOK

Center Luke Bryan brings his Country on Tour to the BOK. bokcenter.com

ART

PROTECTION: ADAPTATION & RESISTANCE Sept. 1-Oct.

13 Living Arts Protection: Adaptation and Resistance is a nationally touring exhibit of artwork by contemporary Indigenous and non Native Alaska allies in response to the pandemic, planetary collapse, and assaults on human rights. livingarts.org

NEW REALMS: ART

LAB Through Sept. 17 Philbrook Engage with striking, reality-bending works of art, then explore three hands-on spaces–each inspired by the artwork on view – where you can experiment, play, and create new realms of your own design. philbrook.org

LINDA LOPEZ & MATHEW MCCONNELL: LIVE FROM THE MOON Through Sept. 24 108

Contemporary 108|Contemporary is excited to announce a two artist exhibition featuring the work of Linda Lopez and Mathew McConnell. 108contemporary.org

FLORAL RESILIENCE Through Dec. 31 Philbrook Across time, flowers have been a source of inspiration for artists, not only for their beauty but also for their symbolic and sometimes secret meanings. philbrook.org

PRINTMAKING: ART AND WRITTEN WORD Through Dec. 31 Philbrook Discover five-hundred years of European history and art tucked into these rare books and prints, on view in Villa Philbrook’s original library. philbrook.org

WYETH: TEXTURED VISIONS OF

NATURE Through June 9,

2024 Philbrook Through three successive generations, the bountifully creative Wyeth family closely observed the world around them to produce artworks that reflect their textured visions of nature. 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 late-1800s pioneer home. philbrook.org

SPORTS

TULSA DRILLERS BASEBALL

Sept. 1-3, 12-17 ONEOK Stadium The Drillers return for late summer games. milb.com/tulsa

TULSA REINING CLASSIC Through Sept. 3 Expo

Photo courtesy Celebrity Attractions

Square The Tulsa Reining Classic is an action-packed display of equestrian skills at Tulsa Expo Square. Watch cowboys and cowgirls of all ages and abilities compete in various challenging events that will keep you on the edge of your seat. exposquare.com

TULSA FC SOCCER Sept. 3, 9 ONEOK Field The Tulsa FC plays at home two times this month –don’t miss it. fctulsa. com

UNIVERSITY OF TULSA

FOOTBALL Sept. 16, 28 H.A. Chapman Stadium The Tulsa Hurricane kicks off its football season. tulsahurricane.com

ITA MEN’S ALL-AMERICAN CHAMPIONSHIPS Sept. 30-Oct. 8 University of Tulsa See some of the top tennis athletes compete. tulsahurricane.com

SIMULCAST HORSE

RACING Through Nov. 4 Expo Square Don’t miss a variety of horse racing fun at Expo Square. exposquare.com

COMMUNITY

FIRST FRIDAY ART

CRAWL Sept. 1 Downtown

Tulsa Since 2007, the Tulsa Arts District has presented the community with rotating art displays as part of the First Friday Art Crawl. travelok.com

CONQUER THE GAUNTLET OBSTACLE RACE Sept. 2 181 Ranch, Bixby Conquer the Gauntlet is a four mile obstacle course that challenges the participant mentally and physically. conquerthegauntlet.com

ESCAPE FROM TURKEY

MOUNTAIN Sept. 4 Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area Enjoy a Labor Day race through Turkey Mountain’s urban wilderness. fleetfeet. com

SECOND SATURDAY ARCHITECTURE TOUR Sept. 9 100

E. Second St. Take a fun and educational walking tour during the Second Saturday Architecture Tour. tulsaarchitecture.org

SCOTFEST Sept.

15-17 Broken Arrow Event Park Celebrate Celtic history and heritage with live music, games and more at Oklahoma’s premier Scottish heritage festival. okscotfest.org

TASTE OF NIGERIA FESTIVAL Sept. 16 Greenwood

Cultural Center Celebrate Nigerian culture with a festival full of delicious food, art, fashion and more. atasteofnigera. com

LOS FESTIVALES Y MERCA-

DOS: DIA DE LA INDEPEN-

DENCIA Sept. 16 1 S. Lewis

Ave. Start Hispanic Heritage Month with a festival filled with handmade goods, dancing and delicious cultural dishes. visitkendallwhittier.com

TULSA GREEK FESTI-

VAL Sept. 21-23 1222 S. Guthrie Ave. Celebrate Greek culutre with traditional food, dancing and music. tulsagreekfestival.com

TULSA STATE FAIR Sept. 28-Oct. 8 Expo Square Enjoy a Tulsa tradition with rides, food and live entertainment. tulsastatefair.com

ROSES, CHALK & KITES, OH

MY! Sept. 29-Oct. 1 Rose District, Broken Arrow A weekend full of family-friendlly fun includes chalk art, live music, street performers and food trucks. keepbabeautiful.org

CHARITABLE EVENTS

LEMON-AID 2023 KICK-

OFF Sept. 1 Mother Road

Market Close out summer and help benefit children experiencing homelessness with Lemon-Aid’s kick off event. thelemonaidproject.org

VISION DINNER Sept . 7 Cox

Business Convention Center Tulsa Community College’s vision dinner celebrates donors investing in education and raises funds to benefit TCC students. tccfoundation.org

HOSPITALITY UNDER THE STARS: HOSPATILITY

HOUSE OF TULSA Sept.

21 University of Tulsa Lorton Performance Center A night of entertainment under the dazzling night sky benefits Hospatility House of Tulsa. philohospitality. networkforgood.com

KOMEN TULSA RACE FOR THE CURE Sept. 23 River Spirit Casino Resort Race for the Cure fundraises to drive research, provide care, unify community and take action against breast cancer. komen. org/community/oklahoma

ST. JUDE WALK/RUN Sept. 30 Oneok Field Walk or run in support of St. Jude Children’s Hospital in the hopes to eliminate childhood cancer. fundraising.stjude.com

IN OKC

PERFORMANCES

SUNDAY TWILIGHT CONCERT SERIES Sept. 10,

24 Myriad Botanical Gardens Family-friendly entertainment features a new music genre per performance. artscouncilokc.com

JOSHUA ROMAN Sept.

12 Armstrong Auditorium, Edmond The immensely talented Oklahoma native Joshua Roman is a solo cellist, accomplished composer, and curator whose performances embrace musical styles from Bach to Radiohead. armstrongauditorium. org

LYRIC THEATRE PRESENTS: CONCERTO Sept. 13-Oct.

1 Lyric at the Plaza Lyric Theatre brings the audience on the journey through Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s infamous 1878 violin concerto. lyrictheatreokc.com

OKLAHOMA SHAKESPEARE

PRESENTS: ROMEO AND JULIET Sept. 14-24 Shakespeare Gardens The Oklahoma Shakespeare acting troupe transforms Oklahoma City into Verona to tell the story of two star-crossed lovers. okshakes. org

OKC BALLET PRESENTS: BALLET UNDER THE STARS Sept. 15 Scissortail Park Presented by Oklahoma City Ballet, this free performance highlights the athleticism and artistry of OKC’s ballet dancers. okcballet.org

OKC BROADWAY PRESENTS: SIX Sept. 26-Oct.

21 Civic Center Music Hall Following the lives of Henry VIII’s six wives, Six gives these former tudor queens an opportunity to tell history through pop music. okcbroadway.com

CONCERTS

SHELLY PHELPS & THE STORM Sept. 9 The Blue Door Oklahoma City singer/ songwriter Shelly Phelps provides an evening of transformative storytelling and powerful vocals. bluedoorokc. com

SYLVAN ESSO Sept. 13 The Jones Assembly Join Grammynominated indie pop duo, Sylvan Esso in dancing the night away at The Jones Assembly. thejonesassembly. com

JELLY ROLL Sept. 19 Paycom Center Jason “Jelly Roll” DeFord heads to Oklahoma City for an evening of rap music. paycomcenter.com

KOE WETZEL Sept.

30 Paycom Center Join Koe Wetzel on his Road to Hell Paso tour. paycomcenter.com

ART

AMERICAN FARMER Through Oct.

18 National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum When photographer Paul Mobley set out to capture the soul of our country’s farm communities, he encountered an enduring

SPORTS CLOSERS AND OPENERS

While the weather is slowly starting to cool off, spend the last days of summer watching a plethora of sporting events.

With baseball season coming to a close this month, join the Tulsa Drillers for their final games from Sept. 1-3 and 12-17 at ONEOK Field. Tulsa FC Soccer is taking over the venue on Sept. 3 and 9. Expo Square hosts two different horse racing events: the Tulsa Reining Classic through September 3 and Simulcast Horse Racing through November 4. College football season kicks off at the University of Tulsa with the Golden Hurricane playing at home – H.A. Chapman Stadium – Sept. 16 and 28. You can watch the top tennis players compete at the ITA Men’s All-American Championships, Sept. 30-Oct. 8, also at TU.

The OKC Dodgers are closing out their season with games from Sept. 1-3 and 12-17 at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. The Paycom Center will host PBR Freedom Fest from Sept. 8-10 for a fun evening of professional bull riding and pyrotechnics. Sept. 24 is the annual Oklahoma Derby Day, hosted by OKC’s Remington Park. Just outside of the city, the University of Oklahoma Sooners will have their first football games at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium on Sept. 2 and 9. The Oklahoma State Cowboys also have their season opening games on Sept. 2 and 16 at Boone Pickens Stadium in Stillwater.

rural culture that remains rooted in the principles of tradition, family, integrity and hard work. nationalcowboymuseum.org

TRUE NATURE: RODIN AND THE AGE OF IMPRESSIONISM Through Oct.

22 OKCMOA OKCMOA hosts a major exhibition of 100 artworks including sculptures, paintings, prints and photographs to celebrate artist Auguste Rodin. okcmoa.com

PATTERNS OF KNOWING Through Oct. 23 Oklahoma Contemporary Patterns of Knowing features works by three artists — Jordan Ann Craig, Benjamin Harjo Jr. and Jeri Redcorn — exploring how patterns sourced from Indigenous cultures embody a lineage of ideas. oklahomacontemporary.com

YELLOWSTONE IN COLOR: MORAN AND PRANG PRINT

THE WEST Through Nov.

26 Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art In 1873, Louis Prang’s Boston lithography firm, L. Prang & Co., commissioned the celebrated American artist Thomas Moran to create watercolors of the newly established Yellowstone National Park. ou. edu/fjjma

CYNTHIA DAIGNAULT: OKLAHOMA Through Dec. 31 OKCMOA This exhibition features one painting, “Oklahoma” by Cynthia Daignault, as a tribute to the painful history of the Oklahoma City bombing from 1995. okcmoa.com

ARTNOW: THE SOUL IS A WANDERER Through Jan.

15 Oklahoma Contemporary The Soul is a Wanderer is the latest iteration of Oklahoma Contemporary’s biennial ArtNow exhibition. oklahomacontemporary.org

EVA SCHLEGEL: MULTIPLE

VOICES Through Jan. 13, 2025 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

PAUL REED: WORKS ON PAPER Through Jan

31 OKCMOA Abstract artist Paul Reed, one of the original six Washington Color Painters, earned national notoriety for his complex series of colorful stained and shaped-canvas paintings. OKCMOA was gifted 125 paintings, sculptures and works on paper by the Paul and Esther Reed Trust. okcmoa.com

CHIHULY THEN AND NOW: THE COLLECTION AT TWENTY Through June 23 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

UNIVERSITY OF TULSA FOOTBALL

Photo by Don Tomkalski

WHERE & WHEN | ENTERTAINMENT

SPORTS

OKC DODGERS BASE-

BALL Sept. 1-3, 12-17 Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark See the Dodgers play at home. milb. com/oklahoma-city

UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA

FOOTBALL Sept. 2, 9 Gaylord

Family Memorial Stadium, Norman Join the Sooners for their first home football game of the season. soonersports.com

PBR FREEDOM FEST Sept.

8-10 Paycom Center A bull riding competition features thrills, pyrotechnics and rock n’ roll music. paycomcenter.com

OKLAHOMA DERBY

DAY Sept. 24 Remington

Park Dress to the nines and watch as the nation’s top horses compete for the championship. remingtonpark.com

COMMUNITY

FIRST FRIDAY GALLERY

WALK Sept. 1 Paseo Arts

District Visitors can enjoy art openings, wine tastings, live music and other activities. thepaseo.org

GUIDED GARDEN

TOUR Sept. 8 Myriad Botanical Gardens Patrons are invited to immerse themselves in the gardens while expanding their plant knowlege. myriadgardens.org

OKLAHOMA STATE

FAIR Sept. 14-24 Oklahoma

State Fair Park Close out summer with fun rides, a variety of delicious fair foods and countless cultural and agricultural exhibits. okstatefair.com

UPTOWN OUTSIDE Sept.

23 Uptown 23rd St Located in Oklahoma City’s history Uptown 23rd District, Uptown Outside is a summer block party featuring food, music and community oriented activities. uptown23rd.com

FALL FESTIVAL AT THE ORR

FAMILY FARM Sept. 23-Nov.

11 Orr Family Farm Orr Family

Farm excites children and adults alike with their variety of fun fall activities. orrfamilyfarm.com

FULL MOON BIKE RIDE Sept.

29 Myriad Botanical Gardens & Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory Set out on an hour bike ride through Oklahoma City during Oklahoma’s beautiful sunset. myriadgardens.com

PLAZA DISTRICT FESTI-

VAL Sept. 30 1745 NW 16th

St Join the Plaza District in celebrating the creativity of the district. plazadistrict.org

COCKTAIL CRUISE Fridays/ Saturdays through Sept.

30 Regatta Landing 21+ patrons are invited to enjoy a cocktail as the sun sets whilefloating down the Boathouse District. okrivercruises.com

CHARITABLE EVENTS

OKCMOA RENAISSANCE

BALL Sept. 8 Oklahoma City

Golf & Country Club Benefitting the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, this black tie event celebrates the OKCMOA and is one of the largest fundraisers for the museum. okcmoa.com

RAISE YOUR RACQUET BENEFITTING FIRST SERVE OKC Sept. 15 Oklahoma City

Tennis Center Indoor Courts Raise Your Raquet is an annual event that fundraises for First Serve, a tennis-based organization bennefiting underserved youth in Oklahoma. firstserveokc.org

RED SHOE RENDEZVOUS Sept. 22 The Omni Hotel Benefitting the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Oklahoma City, the Red Shoe Rendezvous is an event to dress up and support seriously ill or injured children. rmhcokc.org

PEACEFUL FAMILY OKLAHOMA GALA Sept. 24 Oak Tree Country Club, Edmond This casual gala benefits children impacted by family addiction issues. peacefulfamilyok.org

PEACEFUL FAMILY OKLAHOMA GOLF CLASSIC Sept.

25 Oak Tree National, Edmond The PFO Golf Classic is held in conjunction with the gala. peacefulfamilyok.org

15TH ANNUAL ZOOBREW Sept. 29 Oklahoma City Zoo The Oklahoma Zoological Society invites craft beer lovers ages 21+ to eat, drink, and support the OKC Zoo’s conservation programs. okczoo.org

THE STATE PERFORMANCES

CEDRIC THE ENTERTAINER Sept. 1 Choctaw Casino and Resort, Grant Join the hilarious actor and comedian for a night of laughs at Choctaw Casino and Resort. choctawcasinos.com

THE BLUES BALL Sept.

1-3 Town Center Mainstage, Medicine Park This three-day event is dedicated to the appreciation and enjoyment of blues music. medicinepark.com

PAULS VALLEY OPRY Sept.

2 Pauls Valley High School The Pauls Valley Opry revived a 1960s and 1970s tradition built on traveling the state to play country, rock and folk music in a variety of clubs. travelok. com

THE CEMENT OPRY Sept . 2

410 N. Main, Cement The Cement Opry is a monthly live variety show held in the Jesse James Ballroom, which is located above the Cement Museum. travelok.com

THE NEW YORK PHILHARMONIC Sept. 22-24 McKnight Center for the Performing Arts, Stillwater The inimitable New York Philharmonic returns to Stillwater to thrill audiences with three distinct concert experiences. mcknightcenter. org

CONCERTS

ROCKLAHOMA Sept. 1-3 1421

W 450 Rd, Pryor This three-day rock festival features over 70 different acts. rocklahoma.com

DIAMOND STONE MUSIC

FESTIVAL Sept. 7-9 Diamondhead Resort, Tahlequah Three days of Red Dirt music on the banks of the Illinois River. diamondstonefestival. com

DARIUS RUCKER Sept.

8 Choctaw Casino and Resort, Durant Darius Rucker heads to

Choctaw Casino and Resorts, bringing his wide-ranging discography to Durant. choctawcasinos.com

SCOTTY MCCREARY

Sept.

15 McKnight Center for the Performing Arts, Stillwater Singer-songwriter Scotty McCreery been called “timeless” and “flawless” with a “rich, resonant voice.” mcknightcenter.org

GARY ALLAN Sept. 15 7 Clans First Council Casino, Newkirk Join Gary Allan for am evening of high energy country music. sevenclans.com

HANK WILLIAMS JR. Sept.

22 Choctaw Casino Resort, Durant Join country music royalty, Hank Williams Jr. for a fun night of great music. choctawcasinos.com

SPORTS

PRCA RODEO OF CHAMPI-

ONS Sept. 1-3 Beutler Brothers Rodeo Arena, Elk City Three days of classic rodeo events also offers amusement rides, food vendors and more. elkcityrodeo.com

OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY FOOTBALL Sept. 2, 16 Boone Pickens Stadium, Stillwater Join the Cowboys for their first home football game of the season. okstate.com

TWISTER CITY ROLLER

DERBY BOUT Sept. 10 Star Skate, Midwest City Watch as the Twister City Roller Derby skaters exhibit athleticism and talent as they race towards the finish line. twistercityderby. com

COMMUNITY

BLACK TOWNS MOTORCYCLE TOUR Sept. 1-2 Multiple locations, Newcastle Join fellow bikers on a ride through Oklahoma’s 13 historically Black towns. 13blacktownstour.com

JANA JAE FIDDLE CAMP & MUSIC FESTIVAL Sept.

1-3 Grove Civic Center and Snider’s Camp, Grove Join fiddlers and acoustic musicians of all ages in a weekend of bluegrass music and music education. grandlakefestivals. com

QUILTS BY THE LAKE Sept

2 126 Foley Ave., Eufaula Whether you enjoy a good quilt or conisder yourself a fiber artist, enjoy the beatiful display of quilts competing for the top prize. travelok.com

WATERMELON FESTIVAL & COMMUNITY FAIR Through Sept. 2 Main Street, Ringwood Head to Ringwood for a week of fun activities, games and of course, watermelon. travelok.com

CHEROKEE NATIONAL HOLIDAY Sept. 1-3 Various Locations, Tahlequah Enjoy a three-day celebration of Cherokee heritage and cultural awareness. thecherokeeholiday.com

MAHOGANY & CHROME BOAT SHOW Sept. 7-9 Arrowhead Yacht Club and Marina, Afton Celebrate summer on the water. heartlandclassics.org

BLUEGRASS & CHILI FESTIVAL Sept. 8-9 231 Church St., Wagoner You’ll experience a weekend of family fun, good chili, bluegrass music and a variety of handmade goods in

OKLAHOMA RIVER CRUISES

COMMUNITY

A MIXED BAG

With September comes a wide range of community centric events for the whole family.

For the artsy Tulsans, the First Friday Art Crawl kicks off the month throughout downtown Tulsa on Sept. 1, and the Second Saturday Architecture Tour takes place on Sept. 9. For exercise fanatics or those who enjoy a bit of friendly competition, Conquer the Gauntlet Obstacle Race will take place on Sept. 2 at 181 Ranch, Bixby. Tulsa will be hosting a wide variety of cultural events in September, such as Scotfest, Sept. 15-17 at Broken Arrow Event Park; the Taste of Nigeria Festival on Sept. 16 at Greenwood Cultural Center; Los Festivales Y Mercados: Dia De La Independencia on Sept. 16 at First S. Lewis Ave.; and the Tulsa Greek Festival on Sept. 21-23 at 1222 S. Guthrie Ave. Finally, fair season is about to be in full swing with the Tulsa State Fair planting its stakes at Expo Square from Sept. 28 to Oct. 8.

Located in the Paseo Arts district, the First Friday Gallery Walk will take place on Sept. 1. On Sept. 8, Myriad Botanical Gardens invites guests for their Guided Garden Tour. Myriad also hosts a Full Moon Bike Ride on Sept. 29. For the cocktail connoisseurs, enjoy a Cocktail Cruise, Fridays and Saturdays through Sept. 30 in OKC’s Boathouse District. If Autumn activities sound more appealing, the Oklahoma State Fair will be in town from Sept. 14-24 at Oklahoma State Fair Park.

Across the state, enjoy the Black Towns Motorcycle Tour on Sept. 1-2; the Cherokee National Holiday in Tahlequah on Sept. 1-3; and the Okeene Germanfest on Sept. 23 at 101 N. Main St.

historic downtown Wagoner. bluegerasschilifest.com.

CHEROKEE HOMECOMING ART

SHOW Through Sept. 9 Cherokee Springs Plaza, Tahlequah Visit Cherokee Springs Plaza in Tahlequah for the Cherokee Homecoming Art Show & Sale. travelok.com

SENIOR GAMES Sept. 14

Simmons Center, Ducan Seniors over 50 years old are invited to get active, have fun and engage in a bit of friendly competition. simmonscenter.com

A BLAST FROM THE PAST CAR SHOW Sept. 16 Downtown

Morris Enjoy a variety of different vintage and modified cars, along with food, vendors and cash prizes. travelok.com

SHOP YUKONOPOLY Sept.

21 Fourth Street, Yukon Yukon Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors are hosting their “Shop Yukonopoly” event with a free family-friendly petting zoo, corn hole, games and activities, plus chances to win prizes by shopping at downtown Yukon shops with Yukonopoly posters in windows. yukoncc.com/ chamber-ambassadors/ OKEENE GERMANFEST Sept.

23 101 N. Main S.t, Okeene Celebrate Okeene’s history as a German settlement with German food, beer and activities. okeenegermanfest. com

JAHN’S PUMPKIN HILL Sept. 28-Nov. 4 46154 C.S. 2710, Cyril Jahn’s Pumpkin Hill is a family-friendly working farm with a variety of fall activities. jahnspumpkinhill.com

OKLAHOMA FOOD TRUCK CHAMPIONSHIP Sept. 30 221 W. Chickasha Join fellow foodies fin experiencing the tastes of 30 different excellent food trucks. okftc. com

Photo courtesy Oklahoma River Cruises

KICKING OFF FALL CINEMA

A mixed bag of movies includes science fiction, action and dark comedy.

September has a wide array of cinema choices – from surreal to science fiction to comedy. That being said, hopefully you’ll see something you like! Also, and most importantly, it’s my birthday month, so please send your gifts in a timely fashion.

For your dark comedy piece, peer around the corner to find Nandor Fodor and the Talking Mongoose. Based on an alleged “true story” about a “real” talking mongoose from the 1930s, the plot centers around Nandor Fodor (Simon Pegg, Shaun of the Dead) as he travels to a small island to see if there’s any truth is to be found about this talking animal. Along the way, he comes into contact with a bevy of bizarre, untrustworthy people. The trailer has Pegg putting on a wonderfully strange, comedic lilt to his voice, and the cast is rounded out by Minnie Driver (Good Will Hunting), Christopher Lloyd (Back to the Future) and Neil Gaiman (author of Coraline and Good Omens). Seek the truth when it hits theaters on Sept. 1.

If instead what you seek involves vengeful violence, look no further than The Equalizer 3

Loosely based on the television series of the same name, Denzel Washington returns as Robert McCall, a retired U.S. Marine and former DIA officer now living in southern Italy – away from his past and, for once, looking forward to his future. This all comes crashing down with the entrance of the Sicilian mafia, which moves in to take control of the area and McCall’s newfound friends. The trailer shows a handful of stylized kills coupled with Washington’s signature gravitas. Get some vengeance when it releases on Sept. 1.

Now, for your biographical film about, let’s see here, the stock market? Yep. And GameStop. A story that happened ... two years ago. They sure do work fast in Hollywood! Titled Dumb Money, the film follows Keith Gill (Paul Dano, The Batman) as he puts the squeeze on two hedge funds that bet GameStop shares would fall. Based on the real event from 2021, the movie’s version looks to present the story with some style and big actors, including Pete Davidson (Saturday Night Live), America Ferrera (Barbie), Nick Offerman (Parks and Recreation), Seth Rogen (a variety of movies centered around marijuana) and Shailene

Woodley (Divergent). The film drops on Sept. 22.

For a massive dose of action and muscles, look out for The Expendables 4. Back again for another mission with killing and explosions, Barney Ross (Sylvester Stallone) gathers a rag tag group of mercenaries who are assigned to stop a terrorist from smuggling in nuclear warheads. Stallone, who has a more limited role in this film, claims this is his final appearance in the series, as co-star Jason Statham looks to take over. Things will get loud and more-than-likely cheesy when it arrives on Sept. 22.

Lastly, don’t miss The Creator. Starring John David Washington (Tenet), the trailer shows a future where – surprise! – artificial intelligence has gone to war with humanity and must be stopped by killing the Creator, the architect of this advanced AI. Directed by Gareth Edwards (Rogue One), the art direction, production design and plot look fantastical – and it’s a joy to see more sci-fi flicks based solely on the writer’s imagination and not an existing IP. It lands on Sept. 29.

DREW JOSEPH ALLEN

Photo courtesy Black Bear

Wes Mitchell

es Mitchell is the newly appointed executive director of Tulsa Area United Way’s 211 Eastern Oklahoma program. On June 1, TAUW assumed leadership as the owner and operator of 211EOK, a 24/7 free service available to citizens across 37 counties of Eastern Oklahoma through a direct phone call, live chat, text message or online search at 211EOK.org.

Following his graduation from Howard University, Mitchell built his career with a foundation in the corporate IT world at Hewlett Packard and also served as the director of business services for Green Country Workforce before joining TAUW.

With his background working with respected organizations like the Girl Scouts of Eastern Oklahoma, Junior Achievement Tulsa, Tulsa Community College, Teach for America and the Greenwood Cultural Center, Mitchell brings extensive experience to this position. We caught up with Mitchell and got his thoughts on ...

... how his career impacts his strategies with 211EOK.

The strategic impact of my experience lies in leveraging an organization’s strengths. This enables the creation of a culture focused on continual improvement and innovation. By implementing efficient processes, it ensures the maximization of return on investment (ROI) in a constantly evolving market. The translation to the 211EOK work is redefining ROI to match the measurable results of a community, ensuring all of its members flourish and thrive.

... what made him pivot from the tech industry to serving the community.

The enjoyment of changing the trajectory of families that I experienced in my volunteer work.

... what inspires him to help others.

There are two things that encourage me to help others: making a positive change inside my circle of influence, and paying it forward to repay those who have helped me. [I am] adopting the Covey philosophy of focusing on the things I control, in order to change the things with which I am concerned. I start with “the man in the mirror.”

... he and his team’s day-to-day.

My goal is to inspire our team to deliver a consistent, quality experience to both our callers and referral partners. Our work is in facilitation: facilitating the process of uniting people and resources to improve lives and strengthen our communities. We do this by working to continually improve 211EOK.

... his goals for 211EOK.

We plan to transform 211EOK into a world class collaborative ecosystem that serves as an intersection between community services and needs. We’re solving

for today’s need and the root cause of that need. We are creating an ecosystem that utilizes data-driven decisions to proactively close community gaps in services as well as help circumvent emerging negative trends.

... what success looks like for 211EOK.

Success is 211EOK being recognized as the preferred method for uniting the community and resources. My definition of success is when 211 becomes a verb.

... what he wants people to know about 211EOK.

Just remember, 211 is a verb. If you have an issue and you’re not sure where to start, call 2-1-1 or find us online at 211EOK.org.

... his favorite out-of-off ice activities.

Spending quality time with my wife Yolanda, family and friends.

Photo courtesy TAUW