Oklahoma Magazine October 2023

THE MEDICAL ISSUE

Striving for optimized health

KITCHENS AND BATHS

Going beyond the front door

OCTOBER IS BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

Early detection is your best defense against breast cancer. With 3D mammography and advanced diagnostic capabilities, Saint Francis provides patients with comprehensive breast health services and convenient screening locations throughout the area.

To learn more, visit saintfrancis.com/breastservices or call 918-494-6900. Appointments can also be scheduled online through your Saint Francis MyChart account.

Saturday and evening appointments available at select locations.

33 On Medicine’s Cutting Edge

Head-to-toe health is critical for quality of life. We talk to medical experts in a variety of fields – from neurology to ophthalmology, pulmonology, orthopedics and everything in between – to determine how best to keep yourself in tip-top shape.

44 Serenity at Home

Kitchens and bathrooms provide an escape from the chaos of everyday life. Whether you’re slipping into a relaxing bath or sharing a meal with family and friends, these areas should be tailored to your exact wants and needs. We sit down with a few design experts and explore artful construction and renovation projects around Oklahoma.

When

Early Detection Saves Lives

The Most Advanced 3D Mammogram Technology

Fact: One in eight Oklahoma women will develop breast cancer.

Fact: 90% of those cases can be successfully treated if detected early.

INTEGRIS Health offers 3D tomography, the most advanced and accurate mammogram screening available. Schedule your appointment at 1-855-MYMAMMO—some of our locations even offer Saturday or evening appointments.

Please don’t wait. Early detection of breast cancer results in better outcomes. Get the peace of mind you deserve.

Metro Locations

INTEGRIS Health Canadian Valley Hospital

INTEGRIS Health Comprehensive Breast Center

INTEGRIS Health Edmond Hospital

INTEGRIS Health Southwest Medical Center

Lakeside Women’s Hospital

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

If you don’t think autumn is the best season, just imagine I’m lookin’ at you a little funny. I mean, what’s not to like? For one, you’re not sweating profusely every time you step outside. If that’s not enough to sell you, consider fall festivals, spooky movies, college sports and sweater season. We share the magic of all things autumn in our State cover this month (page 6), which includes offerings like haunted houses, kid-friendly pumpkin patches, corn mazes and hayrides.

October also ushers in our annual medical feature, where you’ll get advice from the experts on head to toe health (page 33). Additionally, we cover the warning signs of stroke, as well as the importance of emergency medicine and physical therapy.

If you’d like to feel a curious mixture of awe, envy and inspiration, flip to our Kitchens and Baths spotlight on page 44. Go beyond the front door to explore some of the state’s most stunning havens of relaxation and rejuvenation.

Another can’t-miss story this month includes a chat with Tulsa-based restaurateur Elliot Nelson, head of the ever-expanding behemoth that is McNellie’s Restaurant Group (page 56). We discuss inspirations for his newest venture, Jimmy’s Chophouse, as well as his history with (and love for) the city of Tulsa.

Stick around for a guide to fall foliage viewing (page 10); the history behind ‘dinner and a show’ offerings in the state (page 17); and tips on trick-or-treating safety (page 28).

Happy fall, y’all!

Mary Willa Allen Managing Editor

What’s

October means it’s time for our annual medical feature, offering health advice from head to toe. Local experts weigh in on how to get – and remain –in tip-top condition.

PRESIDENT AND EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

DANIEL SCHUMAN

PUBLISHER AND FOUNDER

VIDA K. SCHUMAN

MANAGING EDITOR

MARY WILLA ALLEN

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

JOHN WOOLEY

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

JAMES AVERY

GREG CARMACK

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

NATALIE GREEN, NATHAN HARMON, SCOTT MILLER, STEPHANIE PHILLIPS, DAN MORGAN, DAVID COBB, SCOTT JOHNSON

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N O W A T I E R 1

P R O V I D E R

W e a r e p r o u d t o p r o v i d e t o p - q u a l i t y s u r g i c a l a n d n o n - s u r g i c a l c a r e t o a l l o u r p a t i e n t s b a s e d o n a c u s t o m i z e d c a r e p l a n m a d e j u s t f o r y o u !

THE STATE

Festive and Frightful

Whether you’re looking to bring the family for some wholesome activities or scare yourself silly, Oklahoma has October offerings for you.

Whether you like dressing up for Halloween, indulging your sweet tooth or getting a little bit spooky, there are plenty of ways to appreciate the holiday this month. Partake in the 2,000-yearold tradition with special programming and events that will frighten, fascinate ... or both.

Family Festivities

P Bar Farms’ Haunted Corn Maze

Oct. 6-28

1002 Old 66 Rd., Hydro

Get ready for a night of excitement and exploration at P Bar Farms’ Haunted Corn

Maze in Hydro. Founded in 2001, the family-owned farm has drawn up to 2,000 visitors in one night with its haunted corn maze. Owner Loren Liebscher says that it’s an ideal outing for families with small children.

“All our spooks are trained to stop if there’s a problem and talk nice to the children,” he says. “We just want to be friendly and have fun.”

Visitors can purchase tickets on-site for the maze, which will run at 7:30 p.m. on 12 different dates.

Tickets to the maze also include admission to the farm’s daytime amenities. The maze, which Liebscher designs himself, will be themed “Where’s Wanda?” –a play on the children’s illustration book Where’s Waldo?

“We pride ourselves on being a family friendly corn maze for all ages,” says Liebscher. “We have several families that have been coming [every year] for ten years straight.”

Halloween Night at the Museum

Oct. 31

1720 W. Will Rogers Blvd., Claremore Get dressed up in your favorite costumes and bring the family to Halloween Night at the Museum at the Will Rogers Museum in Claremore. Starting at 6

p.m., visitors will have a blast collecting candy and sweets in a safe, friendly and spacious environment. e event is free to the public and will include a costume contest.

Other goodies: Carmichael’s – Bixby; Pumpkintown Farms – Tulsa; Orr Family Farm – OKC

Terrifying Hauntings

The Hex House

Oct. 6-Oct. 31

5610 W. Skelly Dr., Tulsa

Enter the Hex House at your own risk.

intense, haunted attraction is allegedly inspired by events that occurred in Tulsa, surrounding Carolann Smith. Following an investigation in 1944, two young women were discovered in the basement of Smith’s home. Rumors swirled that the women were held captive and had witchcraft used upon them ... so the residence was dubbed “ e Hex House.” e attraction is not recommended for children under the age of 13, and children under 16 must be chaperoned by an adult.

Musical Magic

Candlelight Concerts: A Haunted Evening of Halloween Classics

German American Society Event Center, Tulsa

Oct. 5-26

Invigorate all your senses with a medley of popular Halloween tunes, performed by the Litseo String Quartet at the German American Society Event Center in Tulsa. Programming will include renditions of “ riller” by Michael Jackson, the Ghostbusters theme song and more. Tickets are available for purchase online.

The Oklahoma Chamber Symphony: A Halloween at Hogwarts

Oct. 14

First Church, OKC

plus ghost stories and local lore, since 2003. In honor of the Halloween season, the company brings back its agship tour: the Haunted Tulsa Bus Tour. Tour groups visit haunted hotspots, experience paranormal activity, and hear electronic voice phenomena rsthand.

Historical Spirit Tours

Oct. 21

Historic Fort Reno

Established in 1875, the Historic Fort Reno in El Reno was a critical military post during the Indian Wars Era, making it a site of much unrest. Immerse yourself in its dark past by embarking on the Historical Spirit Tour, which recounts the tales of Fort Reno’s unsolved murders. Visitors are encouraged to call ahead to reserve their spots and to dress for the weather.

The Asylum

Oct. 6-29

304 W. Cherokee Ave., Nowata

Gear up for the Asylum’s bloodiest season yet. Based in Nowata, the extreme, interactive haunt experience challenges visitors to nd their way out of sanitarium set in the 1940s. Patients and doctors roam the hallways, trying to avoid whoever – or whatever – has escaped from its room downstairs. Visitors can expect to be doused in theatrical blood and can up the ante by purchasing a special edition blood-soaker T-shirt.

Other goodies: Psycho Path Haunted Attraction – Sperry; Nightmare in the Country – Woodward

Expelliarmus sinister forces by enjoying A Halloween at Hogwarts at the First Church OKC. Concertgoers will be whisked away to the wizarding world of Harry Potter, and the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, through an arrangement of scores from the blockbuster franchise. e concert will commence at 7:30 p.m. and is free to the public.

Other goodies: Gothic Midnight – OKC Phil, Oct. 7 at Civic Center Music Hall; Masquerade: Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 9 – Tulsa Symphony, Oct. 7 at the Tulsa PAC

Terrifying Tours

Tulsa Spirit Tours

Oct. 14 – Nov. 3 tulsaspirittour.com

Tulsa Spirit Tours has provided quality events that showcase Tulsa’s rich history,

Other goodies: Guthrie Ghost Walk –214 W. Oklahoma Ave., Guthrie; Edmond

Historical Ghost Tours – 124 E. Second St., Edmond

Bone-Chilling Benefits

The TFA Haunting Halloween Bash

Oct. 21

Gateway Tulsa Event Center

Celebrate Halloween with themed libations, photo-ops, tarot card readings and other macabre activities at the Gateway Tulsa Event Center. Organized by the Tulsa Foundation for Architecture, the proceeds generated from the ticket sales support the nonpro t’s mission to champion the art of good design.

The Halloween Train

Oct. 28-29

Oklahoma Railway Museum, OKC

All aboard the Oklahoma Railway Museum’s Halloween Train! Running the historic Katy Railroad in Oklahoma City, the museum will take visitors on a 45-minute train ride inside a vintage locomotive, decorated in the spirit of Halloween. e two-day event will include scavenger hunts, a mini golf course and a costume contest with prizes for the winners. The museum, which does not charge for general admission, relies on volunteers and funds raised from donations and special programming.

“A lot of towns wouldn’t exist if it weren’t for the part that railroads played,” says Anne Murray Chilton, the museum’s administrator.

“We’d like for people to be able to experience that part of history and learn more about how railroads shaped Oklahoma and Indian Nation.”

FAITH HARL

Photo by Daniel Galli

Photo courtesy Pleasant Valley Farms

A Love/Skate Relationship

Competitive and recreational skaters let the good times roll.

October is National Roller Skating Month – so it’s a great time to get the entire family rockin’ and rollin’ with year-round opportunities for beginners to pros alike. Skaters can head to the nearest rink and roller skate alone or in groups, without being part of an organized team or league. But for those into competition, roller derby – which originally began as roller skating races –has evolved into a popular contact sport.

“Anyone who wants to skate for fun should look into playing roller derby,” says Cheyenne Riggs, the 2023 president of Twister City Roller Derby in Oklahoma City. “We offer recreational and competitive play, as well as beginners’ classes, which focus on the fundamentals of skating and playing roller derby. They are open to everyone.”

As the weather cools down, skaters can also enjoy the great outdoors.

“Some parks have cool skate ramp parks or sidewalk trails to skate,” says Laura Hale, manager of Midwest City’s Star Skate. “Scissortail Park has a long, smooth concrete path that is fun to skate in Oklahoma City.”

Established in 2006, Twister City Roller Derby is Oklahoma’s largest and highestranked roller derby league with two competitive teams. The derby’s flagship team, Victory All-Star Squad, features the league’s top talent and travels nationwide competing for rankings. The B team, Tornado Alley, features up-and-coming athletes and travels primarily around the region for competitions.

Star Skate offers competitive roller derby teams that practice in its Midwest City and Ada locations, plus a competitive in-line speed skating team in its Midwest City venue which competes around the country.

“Roller skating has risen and fallen in popularity over the decades,” says Riggs, who has noticed a sharp increase in roller skating interest, and a slight uptick in roller derby interest, since the pandemic.

“Adult skate nights have always been popular,” seconds Hale. “We have been scheduling an adult night at Star Skate in Midwest City over the last two years, and it has been steadily building in popularity. We have popular disc jockeys who come in to play fun music just for these nights.”

Both Hale and Riggs tout the health benefits of skating, spotlighting cardio, burning calories, building strength and balance, and positively impacting mental health. Skating forms friendships, camaraderie and community as well. And parents see a big plus in getting their kiddos away from technology and video games.

Skating Safety

“We encourage skaters to start from the basics,” says Hale. “Learn your balance and start with small steps. In our ‘learn to skate’ lessons, we teach proper falling techniques for preventing injuries, and how to stay safe on the skating rink. Helmets are used for our competitive speed skating team. All skaters are welcome to bring in and wear padding.”

Riggs continues: “We take safety very seriously at Twister City Roller Derby. We require all participants to have full gear, which includes a helmet, elbow pads, knee pads, wrist guards and a mouth guard. We also have concussion protocols in place, as well as a system for determining whether or not a new skater has enough skating proficiency to safely join full-contact practices.”

Twister City Victory All-Star Squad skater Kiernan Cobb plays during the Twister City vs. Assassination City bout.

Photo courtesy Free2Solo Photography

Central Tulsa

South Tulsa

Broken Arrow

Sapulpa

Muskogee

Ardmore

Tahlequah

Bartlesville

McAlester

Okmulgee

Durant

Sand Springs

Mustang

Fabulous Foliage

When fall begins to hit Oklahoma, the leaves change colors and the views become spectacular. Generally, October is when the leaves start to shift – but we typically only have a few weeks before the cold snap kicks in. Luckily, there are plenty of places to catch the foliage in its prime, along with trails for biking, hiking and driving to t your viewing needs.

Robber’s Cave State Park

is campground in Wilburton has plenty of lakes, hills, woods and trails for you to traverse. If that’s not enough, there’s also horseback riding, rock climbing and ATV paths to take – along with unique ways to spend the night, including yurts and a covered wagon.

2084 N.W. 146th Rd., Wilburton

Oologah Lake & Highway 88

Located o Highway 88 in Oologah, this location provides plentiful options for shing, boating, picnicking and camping. With wide stretches of water, sailing is also a perfect recreation activity. e forests, and almost 13,000 total acres of land, provide a beautiful fall picture to walk through.

You’ll also spot quail, rabbit, deer and squirrels if you’re quiet enough.

8400 E. Hwy. 88, Oologah

Boiling Springs State Park

Built in the 1930s and located in Woodward, this 820-acre park is home to RV camps, shing and ve hiking and mountain trails with various lengths, perfect for viewing the changing leaves. In addition, the privately owned Boiling Springs Golf Club is right next door. A relaxing afternoon of 18 holes and beautiful scenery is within your grasp.

207745 Boiling, e Springs Rd., Woodward

Red Rock Canyon Adventure Park

Located in Hinton, this stunning park has everything you’ll need for a day trip or overnight adventure

with the family. With plenty of space for an RV, the location also has hiking trails, historical wagon treks and plenty of landscapes to take in the changing colors of the season.

116 Red Rock Canyon Rd., Hinton

Turner Falls Park

is park in Davis is home to Oklahoma’s tallest waterfall, which drops 77 feet into a natural swimming pool. Home to the Arbuckle Mountains – some of the oldest mountain formations in the United States – Turner Falls Park and these wonderful peaks make a perfect backdrop to any outdoor hiking adventure. ere are also RV sites and campgrounds for overnight stays.

I-35 and US-77, Davis

DREW JOSEPH ALLEN

Blink and you’ll miss it –but Oklahoma harbors plenty of great spots to enjoy the changing leaves while they last.

Photo courtesy Susan Dragoo/Oklahoma Tourism

Oklahoma is an excellent place to find fall foliage gems.

Photo courtesy Lisha Newman/Oklahoma Tourism

For bonus foliage stops to visit in Oklahoma, head to okmag.com.

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• Experienced heart care for routine and advanced heart care

• Leading brain and spine specialists, caring for movement disorders, spine care and more

• Advanced cancer treatment and surgery, with you from diagnosis through recovery

• ER care teams available 24/7, including our Joint Commission-certified Comprehensive Stroke Center And you’ll find we excel just as much in the things that can’t be measured — listening more closely and caring more compassionately.

Your first choice for leading care

Move Over, Hollywood

Incentives, programs, knowledgeable experts and heartland hospitality bring movie magic to the state.

In the last several years, Oklahoma has become a popular spot to produce both television and lm. With the Filmed in Oklahoma Act of 2021, options and incentives grew.

Big productions – such as Martin Scorsese’s Killers of the Flower Moon and the Sylvester Stallone-led TV series Tulsa King – have shot in Oklahoma recently. You’ll also see our state as a backdrop to other popular shows like e Marvelous Ms. Maisel, Reservations Dogs and Fairwood

“The film and television industry in Oklahoma is quickly becoming an integral part of our state’s business ecosystem, positively impacting our statewide communities and contributing to the growth of our local workforce,” says Jeanette Stanton, director at the Oklahoma Film and Music Office.

All in all, the FIO Act is an absolute win for Oklahoma on all accounts.

“The state’s film initiative program has allowed us to support both homegrown filmmakers and independent productions while also attracting high-profile studio productions,” she says.

The Strike

Cherokee Film, recently launched as an expansion of the Cherokee Nation’s film and media endeavors, also greatly benefits the state of Oklahoma – both culturally and financially.

“Our tribe launched its first television production in 2015 with Osiyo, Voices of the Cherokee People, and created the Cherokee Nation Film Office in 2019,” says Jennifer Loren, senior director of Cherokee Film. Through its four branches, Cherokee Film is already having an impact on the state and continues to do so with this expansion.

“Our workforce development initiatives have created new film industry participants who are working to tell Oklahoma’s stories, in addition to participating in other productions that land in Oklahoma,” says Loren.

As of this writing, the Writers Guild of America and Screen Actors Guild are still on strike – strikes that began in May and July, respectively. Although some discussions with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) are ongoing, the outlook is still murky.

This strike unfortunately affects Oklahoma just as much as anywhere else.

“Our hope is that all productions which have

Besides the incentive and various programs, there are plenty of other factors that make Oklahoma shine in Hollywood’s eyes and make good cases for film and television to spend their dollars in the state.

“Our low cost of living and business, skilled film workforce, growing infrastructure and heartland hospitality are definite standouts to productions,” says Stanton. Loren seconds: “Oklahoma is full of kind, hard-working people who are open to helping productions be successful here. Also, our state has so much to offer when it comes to filming locations, from beautiful and unique rural landscapes to cities that can dupe for major metropolises to small town Americana and everything in between.”

DREW JOSEPH ALLEN

been temporarily suspended in Oklahoma will resume once matters are resolved,” says Stanton.

Loren adds: “The strikes are having, and will have, huge impacts on the film industry that cannot be overstated, locally and globally,” says Loren. “We believe that the strikes are a reckoning that will result in new models for film and media creation, and we believe our ecosystem is going to be a big part of that future.”

Cherokee Flim was recently launched as an expansion of the Cherokee Nation’s other film and media endeavors.

Photos courtesy of Cherokee Film

Catching Crime

Bad boys, bad boys, whatcha gonna do, whatcha gonna do when they come for you? And they will, indeed, come for you – with the help of millions of surveillance cameras nationwide.

Sean Larkin, retired Tulsa police sergeant, now helms a reality series that allows viewers to get an inside view of crime footage across the U.S., all from the comfort of home. The show, CrimeCam 24/7, debuted in early July on Fox Nation.

“There are over 85 million surveillance cameras, resulting in an estimated two billion hours of recorded footage everyday here in the U.S.,” says Larkin. “CrimeCam 24/7 is a television show that allows the viewer to see a wide range of crimes that have been caught on tape. These incidents are captured on everything from business and home surveillance cameras to drones, cell phones and police body cams, dash cams and helicopters.”

The crimes showcased run the gamut, says Larkin.

“Some of the incidents that we show are heart pounding and adrenalinefilled, while others even actually have a sense of humor to them,” he says. “With each incident, CrimeCam 24/7 tries to give an update to any charges the suspect may have faced, as well as an update on the victim.”

Larkin, who has hosted similar shows in the past, was an easy choice for hosting CrimeCam 24/7. He’s consistently keeping his eyes open for great content to bring to his viewership.

“My close friend Dan Abrams is the owner of Law & Crime [a site/network that showcases live court video, highprofile criminal trials and legal analysis] and the two of us have been involved in multiple projects together over the years,” says Larkin. “Besides working together on Live PD and On Patrol: Live, Dan and I have worked together on the Coptales and Cocktails podcast I hosted with Howard Doss as well as my book, Breaking Blue: Real Life Stories of Cops Falsely Accused. Dan and I regularly brainstorm what new projects we could try and launch together.”

Although much of his work in the past has been involved with or surrounding law enforcement, his new show walks a different path.

“CrimeCam 24/7 was created to show the viewer the wide range of incidents caught and recorded on camera across the country on any given day. It is not a law enforcement related program, but

it does at times show incidents that law enforcement are involved with.”

Larkin is pleased with the quality of the program.

“I say this to everybody, even if I had nothing to do with CrimeCam 24/7, I would watch it and encourage others to do the same,” he says. “It really is a great show from top to bottom. The graphics used, the crime statistics provided at times, as well as the incidents chosen are top notch.

“The footage that has been selected for the show by the producers Paul Tinelli and Chris Lavelle will leave you in awe at times, angry at times and even teary eyed more than once as well. The number of incidents shown where citizens stand up to help one another is hands down my favorite part of the show to bring home to the viewer.”

TRACY LEGRAND

Where to Watch:

CrimeCam 24/7

Free: Fox Nation, Roku Channel, Youtube Premium Subscription

nation.foxnews.com/crimecam-247-nation

A new show hosted by Tulsan Sean Larkin brings citizens up close and personal footage of crimes across the country.

Retired police sergeant Sean Larkin now hosts a new show on Fox Nation. Photos courtesy CrimeCam 24/7

Gearing Up for Adventure

OKC and Tulsa bike tours

give riders a unique view of their cities.

Riding a bike is more than a great form of exercise. It’s also a means to explore more of the state’s history, arts and architecture.

You can pedal your way through notable neighborhoods and attractions, explore local breweries and restaurants and, in the case of one seasonal trip, you can use those spokes to scare up some fun.

These adventures await Oklahoma residents and tourists alike who participate in bicycle tours in Oklahoma City and Tulsa.

“I don’t think there’s a better way to see a new city than on a bike,” says Chris Bouldin, owner of Tulsa Bicycle Tours. “You can cover a lot of ground in a fairly short amount of time.”

Ryan Fogle, co-founder of Ride OKC, says many participants on his tours are “looking for a new and fun activity.”

Fogle believes bikes are a great transportation option to view a city thanks to unobstructed views and a “perfect speed to look around. You just can’t get that inside of a car or bus tour.”

Ready to give these tours a spin? We have the details.

A Wheelie Good Time

Beginners and experienced cyclists are welcome on these tours. Bikes and helmets are provided, although participants can bring their own of both. Both tours o er a variety of sightseeing options.

In Tulsa, riders can choose tours that are two, three or four hours. Highlights include riding through historical downtown Tulsa, seeing cultural and architectural sites, the Riverside area and stops on Route 66. Tulsa Bicycle Tours and Ride OKC also offer brewery tours for riders who are 21 years old and older.

Bouldin describes his tours as a lowimpact ride, and flexibility is available on ride times and tour duration. He welcomes riders who are 15 years of age and older, and anyone younger than 18 is asked to

have an adult with them. Bouldin says he also asks riders what interests them about Tulsa so he can highlight those themes along the way.

“I just take them by literally everything I would find interesting if I were on a tour,” he says.

Participants with Ride OKC can choose tours that bring them to vibrant arts areas and delicious treats. Fogle offers a twoand-a-half-hour tour of art and architecture that features downtown districts, the Oklahoma City National Memorial and the Overholser Mansion. Other options include custom tours, a cookie tour highlighting some of the city’s tastiest treats, and special holiday tours, including a ghost tour in October and a ride through holiday lights in December. Participants ages 13 and older can join a Ride OKC tour. Individuals with younger children can contact the business about booking a private event.

Fogle says Ride OKC also offers rentals for people who want to explore more of the city’s bike trails.

Fogle and Bouldin say they enjoy offering the tours and giving people a new perspective of their respective cities.

Phi Nguyen, a frequent participant of the Ride OKC tours, encourages others to give it a try and see a new side to the city.

“Whatever your interest or your age range, there truly is something for everyone,” he says. “Whether you’re a bike pro or bike newbie, these bicycles are easy to operate and participants will learn about our community in a fun and active way.”

SHARLA BARDIN

Anyone age 13 or older can join a Ride OKC Bike Tour.

Photos courtesy Ride OKC Bike Tours

Acting on Tradition

Now that the COVID-19 pandemic is slowly making its way out of the collective consciousness, there is a unique urge to be out and about, experiencing the community we once took for granted. One way that Oklahomans are immersing themselves in community is through theater – more speci cally, dinner theater.

The concept of “dinner and a show” isn’t new by any means, but dinner theater directors are finding that tradition keeps guests, both old and new, in the audience night after night.

The Tulsa Spotlight Theater (tulsaspotlighttheater.com), known originally as “Riverside Studio,” has been around for nearly 100 years. Impressively, the theater has been running e Drunkard and the Olio – described as an “old-fashioned melodrama” with audience participation – for about as long as anyone can remember, only halting performances for health and safety protocols in 2020.

“November 14th of ’53 was technically the first performance,” says John Beasley, president of the theater’s board of directors. Meaning e Drunkard, a production made possible by volunteer actors and stage crew, is set to celebrate its 70th birthday this November.

The road to 70 years hasn’t been an entirely smooth one. Since last September’s passing of Jere Uncapher – a 65-year employee and knower of all things related to the theater – there was a marked adjustment period. Over the last year, however, Beasley emphasizes that “[Spotlight Theater] has risen to what I think is great success. I’m very optimistic for the future of the organization.”

And what does the future look like? A restoration of the building, around $5.4 million dollars of work, in part to renovate the building’s original kitchen. While dinner is not served at every performance of e Drunkard, the theater is keen on working with local restaurants to provide guests with discounts and special occasion dining – a far cry from the cheese sandwiches and black coffee on the theater’s original menu.

Another dinner theater organization priding itself on supporting local is Whodunit Theatre out of Oklahoma City (whodunit. net). Terri Myers, current director and former actress for Whodunit, explains that the original motive for the show was to highlight local talent and create an all-inclusive dinner experience.

“You can bring your mother, your brother, your preacher or your kids,” says Myers.

“We don’t have gore or gunshots,” she adds, as some guests may have reservations with the ‘murder mystery’ genre. “It’s all about leaving your burdens at the door.”

Thirty years after the first performance, Myers continues to uphold the original values of Whodunit, ensuring that the restaurants they partner with are local, every performance provides a high-quality level of entertainment and that everyone’s – both guests and actors – personal ideas of “fun” are being catered to.

If you’re interested in helping out creatives in your area, Beasley sums it up nicely: “Buy a ticket and come see our show; that’s the best way to support local arts.”

STAFF

Fear Not, Introverts!

Considering that both e Drunkard and Whodunit’s shows are one part entertainment and one part audience participation, here’s a bit of insight for shy guests: The actors will often break the fourth wall in order to build a rapport with the crowd, in addition to creating a foundation for the hijinks that will ensue.

Most audience work done by actors is group work – meaning that rarely, if ever, is one audience member is singled out.

The actors want you to have fun! If they can sense you’re uncomfortable or slow to engage, they will let you warm up before urging you to participate further. The performer’s main goal is to make sure that everyone is having a good time together.

The concept of “dinner and a show” is still alive and kickin’ in Oklahoma.

Historic Riverside Studio is home to Tulsa Spotlight Theatre and its rendition of The Drunkard. Photos courtesy Tulsa Spotlight Theatre

Studying the Spook

Halloween is right around the corner ... but where, exactly, did these celebrations originate?

Goblins, ghouls, witches and more candy than commonsense have already started to line shelves and decorate homes. Children and adults alike are selecting their costumes to ready themselves for the upcoming season.

The celebration of Halloween is fairly ubiquitous throughout the U.S. these days, but if one looks into the origins of this holiday, it has not always been so. The traditions many practice this time of year come from a conglomeration of various, much older celebrations. Let’s see if we can parse out some of the myths from actual history.

Most histories of Halloween trace its earliest roots back to the ancient Celts about 2,000 years ago and their ritual of Samhain (pronounced SAH-win). Samhain marked the end of summer and beginning of winter for these peoples who lived in and around present-day Ireland. They believed that the veil between the living world and the realm of the dead was thinnest at this time of year, and often expected to hear/get signs from deceased relatives and friends. They also had a practice of dressing like spirits to confuse any wayward ghost that might want to steal them away. This is believed to be the origin of dressing in costumes.

Later on, the Catholic Church established All Saints Day on Nov. 1 – many believe in an effort to distract from the ancient Celtic practice. This day was also known as All Hallows Day, thereby making October 31 as All Hallows Eve or, later, simply Halloween.

Halloween was slow to take hold in America during its early days due to the sensibilities

of the Protestant Puritans. There were various traditions around the harvest, but the practice of Halloween didn’t pick up steam until the middle of the 19th century. This is when the potato famine in Ireland drove many immigrants to the United States, bringing their Halloween practices – especially that of pulling pranks – with them.

Due to this emphasis on pranks, Halloween took on a darker tone during the early 20th century. But by the time of the great baby boom after World War II, the holiday had shifted again to focus more on children’s fun and overall community. Candy companies capitalized on the practice of enjoying treats to sell their products. Thus, we come full circle from ancient Celtic celebrations to candy commercialism.

But ultimately a murky, misty past adds to the allure of the Halloween season ... and part of the fun comes in making the celebration your own.

BONNIE RUCKER

Other Potential Origins

e origins of some Halloween practices are di cult to trace, but here are some possible explanations:

- Trick or treating may have originated from a Scottish practice whereby children and the poor would go house to house on All Souls Day, November 2, offering to pray for the household’s dead in exchange for small cakes.

- Jack-o-lanterns were originally carved in turnips and harkened back to the bonfires lit during Samhain.

- Black cats are associated with Halloween as they were seen as the embodiment of witches during the Middle Ages.

During the Middle Ages, some believed black cats were the animal embodiment of witches. The connection stuck, hence the link between black cats and Halloween.

Photo by Wesley Winford courtesy Oklahoma Historical Society

Touring Oklahoma’s Past

Despite the relative youth of our state, Oklahoma has a lot to offer in the way of historical sites.

Look for summer road trip ideas? Get your planner out and create an itinerary of historical spots around Oklahoma.

Starting in the middle – Oklahoma City – the Oklahoma State Capitol Museum gives an exciting lesson on the history of the state capitol building, alongside Oklahoma politics and many of the leaders involved in the state’s founding.

Head to the western part of the state to visit the Washita Battlefield National Historic Site in Cheyenne. Visitors learn the tragic history of the clash between the U.S. government and the Cheyenne people. Be sure to visit the Washita Native Garden, featuring traditional Cheyenne plants.

What could be more compelling than a name like the No Man’s Land Museum? Head further west into the panhandle of Oklahoma, where you can learn the backstory of this fascinating area and its reputation as one of the last vestiges of the Wild West.

Once the home of a Chickasaw governor and now under the restorative care of the Chickasaw Nation, the Chickasaw Nation White House is a grand, turn-of-the-20th-century mansion on the frontier. Located in the far southern Oklahoma town of Milburn, the home is open for tours and an opportunity to dive into the tribal history of Oklahoma.

Head back north for another opportunity to learn about the rich Native American heritage of our state. The Creek Nation Council House, owned by the Muscogee Nation, was first built in 1868 and sits in the Okmulgee town square.

A short trip east will bring tourists to

Checotah and the Honey Springs Battlefield Historic Site. Learn about the Civil War in Indian Territory at this battlefield and visitor’s center. Time your visit to attend one of the re-enactments of the largest military clash in Oklahoma.

Continue traveling east to Sallisaw and Sequoyah’s Cabin Museum, where you can learn about Cherokee history. This famous Native American, responsible for the Cherokee syllabary, lived in the cabin in the early 19th century. The cabin is now enclosed in an outer building for preservation.

Take a sharp turn to the north to visit Big Cabin and the Cabin Creek Battlefield, where not one but two Civil War battles were fought in Indian Territory. Every three years, visitors can watch a re-enactment of the 1864 Confederate

Hungry for More?

victory at this spot.

For some Oklahoma-based entertainment history, head back west to Oologah and the Will Rogers Birthplace Ranch. Learn more about Oklahoma’s own Cherokee humorist and film star.

Not too far away in Claremore is another stop on the historical tour, the Belvidere Mansion, known as the “Belle of Rogers County.” Built in 1907, the same year Oklahoma gained statehood, this ornate homestead is especially nice to visit during the holidays when it is beautifully decorated for the Christmas season.

If you’re looking for more places to learn about Oklahoma history, check out the Oklahoma Historical Society’s website, okhistory.org, and the website of Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation, travelok.com.

For the last stop – and one more impressive old home with a fascinating story – head to Ponca City in north central Oklahoma to see Marland’s Grand Home Owned by Oklahoma’s tenth governor, E.W. Marland, this home features 1910’s cutting edge technology: a central vacuum, automatic dishwasher and Oklahoma’s first indoor swimming pool.

BONNIE RUCKER

The State Capitol Museum in OKC gives historical insight into the building itself, along with lessons on state politics and important political leaders.

Photo by Jim Argo courtesy the Oklahoma Historical Society

Working On and Off the Court

The Seattle SuperSonics came to Oklahoma City in 2008 and became the under; since then, the team has remained beloved, winning a division title in the 2010-11 season and a Western Conference championship in the 2011-12 season.

While strength and showmanship on the basketball court are big factors in the Thunder’s status as a cherished part of Oklahoma culture, some may say the team’s best work happens off the court in the communities players call home.

In addition to the phenomenal work of the Thunder Cares Foundation, Thunder community activities in the Oklahoma region include conducting basketball and art camps, playing bingo with residents at local nursing homes, reading stories to kids and volunteering with Positive Tomorrows – a nonprofit that partners with families experiencing homelessness to educate children and create pathways to success.

The Thunder also sponsors the Rolling Thunder book bus, in partnership with American Fidelity. This year, the Thunder is also spearheading a Black Heritage Creative Contest. Students in grades 9-12 are invited to submit an original poster that describes or depicts an inspirational experience, moment or an individual in Black history and how the students have been personally inspired. Winners will receive a Thunder uniform and warm-up suit, and tickets to games in February 2024.

The holiday season is an important time for Thunder community partners. Players participate in church giveaways and projects to ensure that those in need have necessary items for the season.

Each player has his favorite charities – and some even operate foundations and community programs themselves. Luguentz Dort, for example, has his own foundation in Montreal, Canada, called the Maizon Dort Foundation, where he works within the communities he once lived.

Another player, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, has taken an interest in art and creative pursuits, conducting camps with kids at Oklahoma Contemporary’s art space. Children participating in these camps paint custom sneakers and end the programming with a fashion show.

“It is important to be good stewards of the community’s love and trust,” says Christine Berney, the Thunder’s vice president of community engagement. “It’s fun work and very important to us.”

Thunder forward Jaylin Williams says he loves participating with Thunder Cares, but is most proud of the basketball camp he conducted this past summer. The camp was held at the same high school he went

to in Fort Smith, Ark.

“The moment that sticks with me is the day I was leaving one of the camps, and all the kids were running up to me and giving me hugs,” he says. “It was clear that it meant a lot to them that I was there.”

When asked about the upcoming season, Williams says his main goal is simply to improve, since he spent a lot of time last year learning the basics of being in the NBA.

“I just want to continue to do better, and anticipate what my teammates need,” he says. “To build on that chemistry with the team.”

Guard Aaron Wiggins is also passionate about community involvement. He loves the back-to-school backpack drives and helping kids get the tools they need to thrive. Wiggins recently went with Dort to his basketball camp back in Montreal.

“At the camp, some of the kids wanted to play one-on-one with me, and afterwards they had questions about how to improve their game,” says Wiggins. “It was rewarding to be able to help them grow in their skills and effectiveness – on and off the court. It’s an honor to be a role model in the community.”

JEFF THOMPSON

OKC Thunder players take their commitment to the community seriously through various philanthropic initiatives.

OKC Thunder player Luguentz Dort –alongside participating in a variety of Thunder Cares iniatives – started his own foundation in Montreal, Canada.

Photo courtesy the OKC Thunder

To Linda, Love Don

Most music is, in some sense, a collaboration. Often, it’s a posthumous one. Anytime an artist sets out to perform a piece of music he or she didn’t write, the result is always going to be a combination of the original creator’s work and the approach of the artist or artists interpreting it.

Tulsa-based pianist Barron Ryan, who’s become quite well known for putting his own spins on material ranging from classical to contemporary, knows that as well as anyone. At the same time, he knows that his latest collaboration is something special, a true and equal fusing of talents – even though his collaborator died a full half-dozen years before Ryan was born.

Ryan tells the whole tale in his new illustrated book, Honey, If It Wasn’t for You, which is also the name of the song (included with the book) he crafted in conjunction with the late songwriter Don Feagin. The book’s author is Ryan, the song’s writers are Feagin and Ryan, and, as the book relates, their musical partnership includes a third party. It’s Feagin’s widow, Linda, who is in many ways responsible for both song and book.

“I played with the Tulsa Symphony in 2018 as the featured pianist in a concert featuring local talent, and Linda was in the audience,” recalls Ryan. “We didn’t meet that night, but months later I got a call, asking if I’d be available to play a cocktail party; the host had seen me and was keen on having me play. I accepted, and that’s when I met Linda. She was the host, and she was very warm and supportive and interested in my work.

“I was encouraged and gratified by her gracious spirit,” he adds, “and we came to be in a place where she felt comfortable enough telling me that her husband was

a songwriter, that he had died at the age of 38 of cystic fibrosis, and that he had left materials behind. She invited me to look at them, just to see what would happen. But she also insisted that if I didn’t see any potential I didn’t have to do anything. It was open-ended on her part.”

The Feagins had lived in Dallas, and Don had worked at a full-time job before his illness. Then, for the final six years of his life, he spent his time writing and pitching songs to a variety of artists, mostly in the country genre. Two of his numbers, “Country Music” and “Jesus Is Your Savior, Child,” were recorded by Charley Pride, one of country music’s all-time greats.

Although those were the only two songs of his to see major-label release, Feagin kept shopping demos of his work to a variety of recording acts, even as his health deteriorated.

“Linda told me that in the hospital, as he was ending his last days, he was still writing songs,” says Ryan.

It was 2021, 40 years after Feagin’s death, when his widow invited Ryan to look through the boxes of his material.

“We’re talking about dozens of lyric sheets, 50 or so, with words and maybe chord symbols,” Ryan says. “And then just as many if not more songs that were finished, along with demo reels. I thought those would be interesting to hear, but if a song was already finished, there wouldn’t be much for me to do. I wanted to look at his lyric sheets and add my own music.”

After much exploration, he settled on one called “Honey, If It Wasn’t for You,”

which Feagin had written about his wife.

“I thought, ‘If I’m going to do anything with this material, it needs to be a great story,’” explains Ryan. “Don was an integral part of the story, I did what I could to contribute, and then, to bring Linda, the subject of the song, into it – that gave us all as much agency as possible in this story.

“Don was a country writer, mostly, so I knew this would be a country-ish tune, and country tunes are generally pretty simple melodically and harmonically,” he adds. “I thought this should be a comfortable melody and a comfortable-feeling tune. It was also something I would need to sing, and since my singing voice is not great, it couldn’t be too acrobatic vocally. So I just landed on something that felt right. I had a hard time staying up with and writing down what I was thinking, because it all came rather quickly.”

After that, it was time for Ryan, who’s played before hundreds of thousands of people all over the world, to sit down in a living room setting and perform the song to an audience of one. He felt, he says, “a unique sort of nervousness” when he did “Honey, If It Wasn’t for You” in front of its subject, Linda Feagin.

“I didn’t look at her while I was playing, but I thought, ‘This is very moving,’ and, honestly, I expected her to be a puddle of tears,” he remembers. “Then I turned to her, and she was misty-eyed, but she was also less overwhelmed and more analytical than I expected. She said that it seemed like the tune and the lyrics were perfectly suited.

“Sometime soon after, she told me that

Barron Ryan recently collaborated with the late Don Feagin to create a simple yet moving love song for Don’s wife, Linda.

Musician Barron Ryan recently released a book and song, both titled “Honey, If It Wasn’t For You.”

Photo courtesy PR By the Book

when she read the lyrics, a week or two before I performed the tune for her, that she didn’t love them,” he adds. “But when I put them to music, she said the lyrics made sense to her.”

Since then, the lyrics have apparently been making sense to a lot of people. Or at least making an impression. Even before the book was published, Ryan had begun using the song as a closing number for just about every one of his concerts, prefacing it with the text from his book.

“I play it at the end because I usually play piano music [without lyrics] and to play it in the middle would just seem strange,” notes Ryan. “But whenever I read the book and then perform the song, there is absolute silence. Without exception, it’s the most powerful of all the music I present in concert. So I’ve had the benefit of seeing that the story worked even before the book came out.

“This is my first book,” he adds. “But I’ve been focused on stories for almost the entirety of my professional career. The music I play in concert – I try to tell a story with it. You can almost think of the music as an illustration of the story that I tell. So, in that sense, this is not outside my comfort zone. It’s simply the newest iteration of that style, that approach, to sharing music.”

Even shorn of the book-length backstory, however, he believes the song works, that the words and music convey an important message not only to those involved with bringing the number to life, but to all who hear it.

“I hope it gives Linda a sense of the love her husband had for her and of the love and appreciation that I have for her,” he says. “And then, I hope it does the same thing for everyone else who listens to it, that it helps them feel a sense of the love that surrounds them. That’s what music does. It gives you the sense that someone cares about you – enough to write a song, to paint a picture, to give you flowers, to cook you a meal, because that person knows it will make your life feel full. That’s what I hope this song can do.”

Honey, If it Wasn’t for You, with full-color illustrations by Cali Ward, is available online at book.barronryan.com in both hardcover and E-book formats. The song, included with each book, can also be accessed on streaming platforms.

JOHN WOOLEY

THE PROFESSIONALS

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FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Do you have tips to prepare for retirement if I don’t have kids?

Many people build their retirement and estate plans around their children and grandchildren. For those without, a different formula may apply. Tips include: 1. Prioritize saving for retirement. Since you’re not facing the costs for childcare and educational institutions, consider doubling-down on saving for retirement. Calculate what it will take for you to live the lifestyle you want and compare it to your current savings. Create a plan to save the difference. 2. Recognize your long-term care challenges. Long-term care can be a challenge for anyone as they age, and there’s added complexity in situations where you may not be able to rely on family members to step in. 3. Prepare for medical care. Before you experience a significant medical event, make sure to have an advanced directive, also known as a living will, in place. 4. Have financial decision-makers in place. It’s also important to designate a spouse, friend, extended family member or a professional to look out for your financial interests if you become incapacitated. 5. Plan your legacy. With no direct heirs in line to inherit your estate, you will want to consider what you’d like your legacy to be – including how your assets should be distributed upon your death.

David Karimian, CFP®, CRPC®, APMA®

Prime Wealth Management

A private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial 2431 E 61st St, Suite 400, Tulsa, OK 74136 918.388.2009

David.x.Karimian@ampf.com www.primewealthmgmt.com

HEALTH & LIFE INSURANCE

How do I know if I’m in the best Medicare plan for me?

I start by listening to your needs. We’ll build a list of the doctors you visit, the drugs you’re taking and the pharmacies you use. Then, we’ll evaluate the highest-rated plans in your area. It’s the same process I follow with every client, even my own family, to make sure they get the right coverage. Don’t let anyone rush you into a decision. My job is to make sure you understand your options. Everyone is different. Your circumstances are unique to you, and change at times. Find a local agent who will answer all of your questions, and stay with you to help through the changes of life. I live in Oklahoma and study these plans each year. If you have questions about Medicare, health insurance or life insurance, schedule an appointment with my office manager at 405-850-1900 or email me at SKang@HealthMarkets.com

Sung Kang

Executive Sales Leader

Sung Kang Insurance Health | Medicare | Life | Supplemental 7101 NW Expressway, STE 745, Oklahoma City, OK 73132 SKang@HealthMarkets.com (405) 492-4670 – www.healthmarkets.com/skang

HOSPICE CARE

Can you explain and compare different types of healthcare?

Home Health: Home health focuses on helping patients recover from illness, injury, or manage a chronic illness such as diabetes or COPD. Services are provided by nurses, therapists, social workers and home health aides in the comfort of the patient’s home. Home health services manage medications, evaluate dietary needs, reduce mobility challenges to reduce fall risk and can hasten recovery. Palliative Care: Palliative care is specialized medical care that focuses on quality of life for patients dealing with the symptoms and stress of serious illnesses like cancer, stroke, dementia or HIV/AIDS. Palliative care can be received along with curative treatment and other home care services. Visits are provided in the patient’s home by a Nurse Practitioner and care is coordinated with your primary care physician. Hospice Care: Hospice care is available to patients with life-limiting illnesses who can no longer benefit from curative treatment. Services are in-home, at nursing homes or even assisted living facilities. The care team consists of a hospice physician, nurses, home health aides, chaplains, social workers, volunteers and bereavement counselors. For help navigating your care, give us a call.

Rachel Arnold, MHA, CHM Grace Hospice

6218 South Lewis Ave., Ste 1000 Tulsa, OK 74136 918-744-7223

GraceHospice.com

RACHEL ARNOLD, MHA, CHM

SUNG KANG

MEDICAL DIRECTOR OF AESTHETICS & WELLNESS

DR. CRISTIE HAWKINS

DAVID KARIMIAN CFP®, CRPC®, APMA®

LIFE & STYLE

Flock to the Canary Islands

Although the eight Canary Islands lie just 60 miles o the coast of Morocco, Africa, they belong to Spain and have for six centuries. Born of volcanoes, this land of eternal spring

enjoys lots of sunshine and an average daytime high of 77° year ’round, earning the isles the nickname of Europe’s Hawaii (apologies to the Azores in Portugal, which also claims the moniker).

Of the eight, Fuerteventura is the oldest, with topography ranging from mountains of 2,600 feet to barren Mars-like terrain to more than 90 miles of alternating marshmallow-white, gold and black sand beaches.

Dubbed “Europe’s Hawaii,” the Canary Islands are a picturesque respite from everyday life.

The Canary Islands, off the coast of Africa, beckon to travelers around the globe.

The surfing at Flag Beach on Fuerteventura’s northeast coast is superb thanks to prevailing winds from the north-northwest. All surfing disciplines are welcome: wind, kite, board and wing foil.

As you’re nailing that tube ride, you’re sure to notice Lobos Island off to the northeast. You’ll probably also see a ferry or two taking folks to Lobos from the resort town of Corralejo just up the coast. The island boasts a magnificent bay with calm, shallow waters and white sand beaches, one lighthouse and a restaurant.

Sotavento Beach adorns the southeast coast of Fuerteventura with crystal-clear lagoons and sand the color of cotton candy, backed by volcanic mountains. The beach

itself runs for a couple of miles taking trekkers past swimming holes and tidal pools.

An area on the island’s west side is thought to have been the first to come to the surface after volcanic eruptions formed what is now the islands. The Ajuy Natural Monument provides awesome views and some amazing natural caves. Not too far away, Ajuy beach is dressed for the occasion, sporting black sand along with white, breaking waves.

In central Fuerteventura, grab your hiking boots and tackle the trails of rugged Natural Monument Mountain Cardon. Or find a beach, strap on scuba tanks and search for turtles, dolphins and whales in the Atlantic.

The island’s hot spot is Corralejo: hip restaurants, wine bars, fish bistros and a bumping nightlife scene offering everything from disco to karaoke. Experience some of the world’s freshest seafood in fine-dining broils overlooking the marina.

Ten miles south of Corralejo, the island does a 180 and hands you La Oliva, a quiet, history infused hamlet counterbalancing Corralejo’s vibrancy. The former center of power on Fuerteventura is filled with handsome 17th-century colonial architecture, like the “Colonels’ House,” white-washed townhouses, palm trees, a grain museum, art galleries and the town’s centerpiece, the Church of Our Lady of La Candelaria.

Time your visit to include a Tuesday or Friday morning when the La Oliva market takes center stage with farm-to-table produce, indigenous crafts, handmade shell jewelry, local spices and robust mojo picón

sauces made with intense blends of cayenne peppers and paprika.

Native foods to savor include gofio, roasted corn flour; frangollo, a dessert made with goat’s milk, sugar, almonds and raisins; and limpets, a mollusk found in sea stones and prepared with mojo picón. The sea bass and cherne are also plentiful.

Stay in northern Fuerteventura to soak up the relaxed vibes of El Cotillo, Corralejo and Lajares. The Avanti Lifestyle Hotel sits right on the beach in Corralejo with terrific views everywhere you look, especially from the hotel’s rooftop Jacuzzi.

On the east coast, the Sheraton Beach, Golf and Spa Resort is sandwiched between 36 beautiful sea-view golf holes (plus 18 miniature golf holes). After the links, hit the spa and rejuvenate in an ice igloo or hammam.

Yes, there are canary birds on the Canaries. They’re named after the islands, which got it from the Latin words Canariae Insulae, meaning “islands of the dogs,” most likely a reference to monk seals – a.k.a. sea dogs.

CHUCK MAI

Avoiding Foodborne Illness

Foodborne illnesses can wreak havoc on the body. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea and even fever, says Jacob Tipps, M.D., a family medicine physician with INTEGRIS Health Medical Group – Cross Timbers in Edmond. Often referred to as food poisoning, foodborne illnesses are caused by bacteria, viruses and/or parasites.

“The two most common bacterial sources are salmonella and clostridium perfringens, with the most common viral cause being norovirus,” says Tipps. “Symptoms of foodborne illness can appear hours after eating contaminated food, or may not appear until days later depending on the organism.”

Typically, treatment for a foodborne illness is predominantly supportive care, says Tipps, with the goals being to drink plenty of fluids, eat small, low-fat meals and rest as much as needed.

“The best options for rehydration are oral rehydration solutions such as Pedialyte, however sports drinks such as Gatorade or Powerade are acceptable in otherwise healthy adults who are not dehydrated,” he says.

While most people recover quickly

from food poisoning, there may be times when medical attention is needed, especially if you develop bloody diarrhea.

“If your symptoms are not getting better, your doctor may order stool cultures to look for specific infections that are causing your symptoms,” says Tipps. “Antibiotics are not usually needed, and in some cases can make the illness worse. Antidiarrheal medications such as loperamide (Imodium) can be useful for symptomatic treatment of watery diarrhea. Your doctor may also prescribe an anti-nausea medication to help treat vomiting so that you can maintain hydration.”

If you become sick, it’s also important to stay away from others during the duration.

“If you do have diarrhea and/or vomiting, you should be cautious to avoid spreading the infection,” he says. “Limit contact with others and make sure to wash your hands frequently. You are considered contagious for at least as long as vomiting or diarrhea continues.”

Staying Safe

To help lower your risk of consuming contaminated food, there are a few

simple rules you can follow.

“The most important thing is food safety,” says Tipps. “Don’t drink raw [unpasteurized] milk. Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating, using cold water. Use precooked or perishable foods as soon as possible, and never leave cooked foods at room temperature for more than two hours.”

Additional tips from the Oklahoma State Department of Health include washing hands, utensils and cutting boards before and after contact with raw meat, poultry, seafood and eggs, as well as keeping items separated.

When working with raw food, be sure to keep it away from ready-to-eat foods such as fruits and vegetables. Use a food thermometer to determine whether or not food has been cooked thoroughly.

Recommended internal temperatures are 145°F for roasts and steaks, 165°F for whole poultry and 160°F for ground meats. To adequately refrigerate foods –because colder temperatures help slow the growth of disease-causing pathogens – set your refrigerator to 40°F or colder, and the freezer should be kept at 0°F.

Commonly known as food poisoning, foodborne illnesses can be avoided with a few strategic choices.

Big Things Coming

Established the same year that Oklahoma became a state – 1907 – Blanchard has spent much of its existence serving as what some might call a “bedroom community,” i.e. somewhat isolated, yet within a few minutes’ reach of a major metro (in this case, Oklahoma City).

Lately, however, U.S. Census figures have borne out what is becoming most evident: Blanchard is shedding its bedroom status and growing into a more vibrant community with a personality all its own.

The city is on the cusp of offering visitors a significant reason to stop by. This fall, construction is nearing completion of a unique memorial in the downtown area that will pay tribute to the nation’s military veterans: the Veterans Memorial Park on Blanchard’s main thoroughfare. Blanchard Mayor Michael Scalf, Sr. is also chairman of the organization spearheading construction and financing of the memorial. He believes it will prove to be something worth a detour off Oklahoma’s interstate highways.

Dedication of the memorial (which is roughly patterned after a memorial in Jeffersontown, Ky., that Scalf saw while on a vacation), is tentatively scheduled for November – just in time for the annual Veterans

Day observance.

Inclusion in the memorial is open to any veteran throughout the U.S., “as far back as the Civil War,” says Scalf. Commemorative, opaque glass bricks are being sold to help finance the project, with the design allowing up to 1,500 honorees’ names.

About 500 bricks had been sold at this writing in late August, with funds raised from brick sales and from major corporate donors.

Blanchard sits at the intersection of U.S. 62 and SH 76, located about 30 miles southwest of OKC. It’s close to the intersection of Interstates 40, 44 and 35 that pass through OKC. Scalf says that until recent years, the lack of direct interstate access has hampered Blanchard’s growth. There is ample evidence, however, that the city is overcoming that deficit, and the memorial will help immensely.

Blanchard began as a railroad community situated in western McClain County, but the recent growth has pushed the city into neighboring Grady County. In fact, Winter Creek, an upscale housing development that features an 18-hole golf course, lies in the newer area on Blanchard’s west side.

The mayor says another similar development is anticipated on the west side of the city, and recent hints of still another development on Blanchard’s east side have residents buzzing.

Blanchard is showing significant population growth, sitting at just under 10,000, according to U.S. Census figures. By contrast, the city’s 1980 population was about 1,600.

Cheryl Hendricks, Blanchard Chamber of Commerce’s executive director, is a 20-year resident of the city. She says economic activity has picked up

markedly in recent years.

“We have a few smaller businesses that are feeling an economic crunch,” says Hendricks, “but overall, we’re doing pretty good.”

The Chamber of Commerce, in its appeal to prospective businesses and residents, touts the city’s warmth and benefits of a small town, all while providing easy access to a major metro.

Events throughout the year include a May festival, an annual Independence Day celebration that Scalf says draws 7,000 to 9,000 people, a two-day bluegrass festival in August, and a downtown Christmas parade. While remaining tight-lipped, Hendricks said “big things” may be coming that will affect Blanchard in a positive way.

“They will make everyone happy,” she says.

HENRY DOLIVE

The city of Blanchard is outgrowing its reputation as a bedroom community.

The Veterans Memorial Park in Blanchard is set to open this fall.

Photo by Michael Scalf

No Tricks, Just Treats

Alongside collecting bags of delicious candy, safety should be priority No. 1 on Halloween night.

It’s Halloween night. Your kids are dressed up, excited and raring to go. But how do you keep these enthusiastic trick-or-treaters safe?

“For smaller children, make sure they are always accompanied by an adult,” says MSgt. Gary Knight of the Oklahoma City Police Department’s office of media relations. “For older children, if they don’t want an adult with them, make sure you know where they will be, and ensure they are with a group. There are plenty of phone apps to help you monitor your kid’s location.”

For those parents who worry about Halloween treats being tampered with, Knight can calm some of those fears.

“I’ve been a police officer in OKC for 33 years,” he says. “In that time, I’ve never known of a case here of poison or razor blades being placed in candy. It is exceedingly rare, even on a national scale.”

The Biggest Safety Issues

So if tampered-with candy isn’t the biggest issue for kids on Halloween, what is?

“By far, the greatest threat to kids on Halloween is automobiles,” says Knight. “Make sure the children wear something reflective, if possible. Instruct them to be extra careful when crossing the street. It can be difficult for drivers to see small children who dart out

into the street from between parked cars.”

The National Safety Council’s website gives more tips on having a less frightful experience on this spooky night.

Most important for children to remember: do not go into a stranger’s home or get into a stranger’s car.

For older kids who don’t want to hang out with parents, plan a trick-or-treating route beforehand and be sure the entire evening’s route is one you have approved and are familiar with.

While complex costumes can appear to be more fun, simple can be safer. Select an outfit that is not going to cause “trip-and-fall” hazards because of a heavy, sight-obscuring mask or draped layers of material. The National Safety Council suggests opting for face makeup instead of a mask. Be sure to select makeup that is non-toxic.

When choosing costumes and wigs, ensure the tags specifically state the items are fire resistant.

Use candles with batteries for lighting pumpkins.

Have a new driver in the family? Encourage them to be a passenger when going out on Halloween. Seasoned drivers should be on the lookout for children who:

• Forget typical safety rules and are walking in the middle of roads or are crossing through

medians and on curbs;

• Enter and exit driveways without being aware of the surrounding vehicles; and

• Wear dark or hard-to-see clothing and costumes.

“We ask that drivers be extra vigilant in neighborhoods on Halloween, as there will most certainly be a lot more kids than usual on foot,” says Knight.

Be safe. Be spooky. Have fun!

DEBI TURLEY

FUN AND QUIRKY CANDY ALTERNATIVES

Want to opt out of giving candy, but don’t want to be the boring one on the block? Try:

• Granola bars

• Juice boxes

• Mini water bottles (in addition to another item on this list, of course)

• Trail mix packets

• Small bags of pretzels

• Bubble soap

• Temporary tattoos

• Stamping sets

Bob Beard, Maura Guten, Johnie & Krystal Hampton; Ribbon Cutting Event, Child Advocacy Network, Tulsa

Asia Freeman, Melissa Shaginoff, Joel Issak; Protection: Adaptation & Resistance Exhibition opening, Living Arts, Tulsa

Diane Harvey, Amy Douglas, Lindsey Burns, Beth Jansen; Summer Soirée, Wes Welker Foundation, OKC

Judy Sellmyer, Thomas Lott; Celebrity Wait Night, Upward Transitions, OKC

Kathryn Johnson, Kellie Currie, Susan Raupe, Kyndra McKinstry; Summer Soirée, Wes Welker Foundation, OKC

Brad & Kim Henry, Amy & Andrew Weyrich, Cathy & Frank Keating; 77 for 77 OKC Kickoff Event, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, OKC

Brett Venable, Wes Pebsworth, Jacob Odom, Steve Jordan; Care Keeper Luncheon, Hospitality House of Tulsa

Alexander Mickelthwate, Pam Tillis; Oklahoma Historical Society Benefit, OKC Philharmonic

Charlotte Gargis, Kim Stewart, Adam Robinson, Jake Law, Carlyle Gargis; STEAMM Lab Grand Opening, The Salvation Army - Tulsa Area Command

Donna & Gordon Moeller, Eric & Jacque Scholl, Denise Chambers; WildBrew 2023, Sutton Avian Research Center, Tulsa

Stephanie Bice, Kendall Wolz; Stand Up For Kids Luncheon, Care Center, OKC

Thomas Hill, Erin Engelke, Amy Mason, Lori Mayhue, Abby Sholar; Kimray 75th Anniversary Celebration, Calm Waters Center for Children and Families, OKC

ON MEDICINE’S CUTTING EDGE

By Rebecca Fast

Head-to-toe health is critical for quality of life. We talk to experts in a variety of fields – from neurology to ophthalmology, pulmonology and orthopedics – to determine how best to keep yourself in tip-top condition.

THE BRAIN

Keeping mentally sharp as we age is as important as staying physically t. Our brain, like any other part of the body, bene ts from a healthy lifestyle with e orts made to support and strengthen mental acuity.

“In addition to a healthy diet and regular exercise, individuals can keep their brain healthy by staying mentally active through activities like puzzles, reading and learning new skills,” says Kenny Susanto, M.D., a neurologist with Ascension St. John Medical Group. “Social engagement, quality sleep, stress management and staying hydrated are also helpful – and recognizing that mental health is an important aspect of our brain, I would also recommend doing mindfulness exercises and meditation.”

He says mental decline varies by individual and also depends on baseline cognitive capabilities.

“Common early symptoms may include forgetfulness, and more complex things such as

getting lost in familiar places and/or forgetting how to do the sequence of things that one is used to doing tends to be more specific,” says Susanto.

While some changes can be mild and attributed to normal aging, he says if these changes begin to interfere with daily life, then it’s wise to consult a healthcare professional for evaluation. As treatment for dementia evolves, Susanto shares that a new drug was recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat early Alzheimer’s disease.

“There are a lot of things being researched currently, not limited to medications, neuroimaging techniques and AI technologies,” he says.

THE EYES

Technological advancements in the eld of ophthalmology are providing new treatments for a variety of diseases and conditions that a ect the eye.

Victoria Bugg, M.D., an ophthalmologist with Dean McGee Eye Institute in Oklahoma City, says there are many new and exciting innovations that can help patients with glaucoma, cataracts and other vision conditions.

“Glaucoma is a disease of the optic nerve that can be associated with a higher eye pressure and can often be treated with eye drops,” says Bugg. “However, if surgery is needed, there are now several surgical procedures that are efficacious at lowering the eye pressure with less side effects than more traditional glaucoma surgery.”

Some of these surgeries can be done at the same time as cataract surgery, and patients should talk to their ophthalmologist to see if they would be a good candidate for one of these treatments.

Fuchs endothelial dystrophy, a disease that causes corneal swelling and blurry vision, previously required a full thickness cornea transplant when it reached the end stages.

“Today, cornea surgeons are

able to do a partial transplant of only the most posterior portion of the cornea,” says Bugg. “This procedure is significantly less invasive than a full thickness corneal transplant, and has less risk for complications during surgery and afterwards.”

Cataract surgery, Bugg’s specialty, allows individuals to not only treat the cataract, but also correct their vision.

“Everyone is born with a lens inside their eye, which can become cloudier and cause blurry vision as we age. At that point, it’s considered a cataract,” she says. “We do the surgery as an outpatient, under local anesthesia. While looking under a microscope, we make small incisions on the side of the eye, break up the cataract lens, and vacuum it out. We then place an acrylic lens inside the eye that will stay there forever, and there are a variety of lens implants available that can help correct nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism.”

However, with any surgery, there are risks and potential side effects.

“Before any eye procedure, I encourage everyone to have an in-depth conversation with their surgeon to ensure the benefits outweigh the risks,” says Bugg.

THE JOINTS

Healthy shoulder and hip joints are critical to mobility – allowing us to move freely and easily throughout our daily activities. But sometimes, injuries, disease or chronic wear and tear can limit our movements, and relief may only be found through a surgical procedure.

“While most people would like to avoid surgery – and we do try many nonsurgical options – there are times when surgery is what’s needed to correct a problem,” says Jacob Worsham, M.D., an orthopedic sports medicine surgeon with Tulsa’s Advanced Orthopedics of Oklahoma. “With any treatment plan or procedure, our goal is to help our patients return to doing the things they enjoy.”

Common shoulder surgeries include rotator cuff, labrum,

impingement, fracture repairs and shoulder replacement.

Worsham says there are two main types of shoulder surgeries – an arthroscopic procedure where small keyhole incisions are made in the shoulder for a scope and other instruments to be inserted; and an open shoulder procedure, where a single large incision is made into the shoulder. The type of surgery required is dependent upon the diagnosis.

For shoulder replacement surgery, the diagnosis is usually arthritis or a nonfunctional rotator cuff; options include a partial shoulder replacement, anatomic total shoulder replacement or reverse total shoulder replacement.

“If the rotator cuff is intact, then a normal or anatomic shoulder replacement can be

Dr. Victoria Bugg says new medical innovations can help patients with glaucoma, cataracts and other eye conditions.

Photo courtesy Dean McGee Eye Institute

Experts at Advanced Orthopedics of Oklahoma offer both non-invasive and surgical options for their patients.

Photo courtesy Advanced Orthopedics

performed. However, if you have any deficiencies in the rotator cuff muscles, then you may need a reverse total shoulder replacement,” he says.

With a reverse total shoulder replacement, the implant is placed backwards with the ball attached to the shoulder bone and the socket attached to the upper arm bone or humerus.

“By switching the ball and the socket, your deltoid muscle takes over the function of lifting your arm,” says Worsham.

For a partial shoulder replacement, also called a shoulder hemiarthroplasty, only the humeral head is replaced.

“Shoulder replacements are very successful, and when done for the right patient and right diagnosis, it can really change people’s daily lives by allowing greater mobility,” he says.

Yogesh Mittal, M.D., an orthopedic surgeon with the Orthopaedic Center in Tulsa, says patients who are candidates for hip replacement surgery have usually tried a variety of other treatment options, including medication, injections, physical therapy and weight loss to alleviate pain – but with no success.

“If your hip is keeping you from being happy and doing the things you want, whether it be from pain or loss of function, please consult a surgeon,” he says. “We can help in so many ways. We now have better implants with better bearing surfaces that wear better and last longer – usually 15 years is ideal, but they last even longer at times. Also, recent advances include robotic technology, which has revolutionized the industry and improved the surgical experience immensely.”

THE MOUTH

ird molars, called wisdom teeth, are located in the back corners of the mouth, both on the top and bottom, and have the potential of being painful problems.

“Often, wisdom teeth begin to cause pain and discomfort in the teenage years or early twenties,” says Cody H. Mumma, DDS, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon with Eastern Oklahoma Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery in Tulsa. “Many times, wisdom teeth become impacted, or stuck in the gums and bone. Swelling and pain of the gums overlying a wisdom tooth is often the first symptom, and this can eventually lead to a cavity with more pain and discomfort.”

Along with the possibility of infection, an impacted wisdom tooth can also develop a follicular cyst around the impaction and, as it grows, can damage the surrounding jaw bone and teeth.

“My best advice is to remove wisdom teeth early. As we age, wisdom teeth become more challenging to remove and complications can occur more often,” says Mumma. “While the procedure of removing wisdom teeth hasn’t changed much, I would encourage those seeking removal of their wisdom teeth to consult with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, as we are specially trained in this procedure and the complications that can occur.”

Dr. Yogesh Mittal says most hip replacements should last for up to 15 years.

Photo courtesy The Orthopaedic Center

THE HEART

e American Heart Association and American College of Cardiology recently updated its chronic coronary disease guidelines. Aleicia Mack, D.O., a cardiologist with INTEGRIS Health Heart Hospital in Edmond, explains the importance of these recommendations and their e ect on caring for those with heart disease.

“Clinical practice guidelines have a direct impact on the daily treatment and care of patients with coronary artery disease,” says Mack. “These guidelines were created to offer evidence-based recommendations for

managing patients at different stages of the disease, from those at risk to those with a confirmed diagnosis. The ultimate objective is to provide patient-centered, high-quality care.”

She says one main focus within the guidelines is to continue “adopting a patient-centered, team approach to cardiovascular care with an emphasis on lifestyle changes, such as healthy eating and regular physical activity in addition to medical therapy.”

For instance, for anyone living with

heart disease or trying to avoid it, there are many best practices to follow – from avoiding trans fat and certain medications to limiting exposure to secondhand smoke. Studies have shown that adults who are exposed to secondhand smoke increase their risk of developing coronary heart disease by 25-30% and exposures as brief as 30 minutes can result in damage to blood vessels and tissue.

THE LUNGS

According to the American Lung Association, more than 34 million Americans live with a chronic lung disease. Additionally, lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States.

Sergio Garcia, M.D., a pulmonologist with Norman Regional Health System, says there are many common causes of lung disease.

“For example, smoking is associated with COPD (chronic obstructive lung disease), cancers and some interstitial lung

diseases, and environmental factors may affect us and predispose us for asthma or interstitial lung diseases,” says Garcia. “Also, many types of cancer of the lung exist and are treated differently and behave differently.”

He says risk factors, beyond smoking, include radon and asbestos exposure – but it’s also important to know that 25% of new lung cancer cases occur in people who have never smoked.

“The most common symptoms of lung

disease include breathlessness, a persistent cough, weight loss, wheezing, fatigue, chest pain, mucus production and coughing up blood,” says Garcia, adding that lung cancer screenings are a regular preventative health check. “A lung cancer screening is meant to find lung cancer at an earlier stage, when survival rates are better. You should consider getting screened for lung cancer if you are aged 50 to 80 years old, smoke now or quit within the past 15 years, and have a 20-pack a year history.”

Heart health recommendations include eating well, controlling blood pressure, and avoiding trans fats and secondhand smoke.

Photo courtesy INTEGRIS Health Heart Hospital/Ackerman McQueen

Risk factors for lung cancer, says Norman Regional’s Dr. Sergio Garcia, include smoking and radon exposure. However, 25% of new lung cancer cases occur in people who have never smoked.

Photos courtesy Norman Regional Health System

Eastern Oklahoma Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (EOOMS) is committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive oral surgery care. Our surgeons, Todd Johnson, Gregory Segraves, Heath Evans, Chris Ray and Cody Mumma, are diplomats of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Common procedures provided include wisdom tooth extractions, dental implants and bone grafting. Our specialists have extensive training in outpatient anesthesia and jaw reconstruction.

For patients’ convenience, most of the group’s services are performed in the EOOMS offices. With convenient locations in Broken Arrow and Owasso, EOOMS proudly serves Eastern Oklahoma and surrounding areas. Our offices are certified for outpatient anesthesia and the staff have advanced training to provide safe and comfortable care.

The EOOMS staff is a committed group of employees striving to achieve the highest standard of care. Additionally, our surgeons provide oral and maxillofacial surgical services at Hillcrest Hospital South and are clinical assistant professors at the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry.

When the signs of aging, stress, or sun damage appear, the oculofacial plastic surgeons at the Dean McGee Eye Institute (DMEI) can help reverse the effects.

Distinct from other plastic surgeons, oculoplastic surgeons have specialized surgical training in the delicate and intricate anatomy of the eyes and surrounding areas, namely the eyelids, brows, forehead, and mid-face. Their expertise in micro-surgery and focus on preserving movement and function sets them apart, enabling them to attain the most natural-looking results. Plus, DMEI’s oculoplastic surgeons have the latest technology and products to meet your cosmetic needs.

Broken Arrow: 4716 West Urbana Street

(918) 449-5800

Owasso: 12802 East 101st Place North (918) 274-0944

Call 405.271.1096 to schedule an evaluation with one of our surgeons today!

Left to Right: Dr. Todd Johnson, Dr. Cody Mumma Dr. Christopher Ray, Dr. Greg Segraves Dr. Heath Evans

THE STOMACH

ese days, people are paying more attention to their gut health – a broad term used to describe the body’s digestive system – and a healthy stomach is essential for a healthy gut.

Scott Hendrickson, D.O., a gastroenterologist with Gastroenterology Specialists in Tulsa, says to maintain a healthy stomach it’s important to reduce your consumption of known irritants.

“Examples of these include excessive alcohol, smoking and NSAIDS [like] ibuprofen and naproxen,” he says. “And some acid blocking drugs – omeprazole, pantoprazole – can drastically increase the pH in the stomach, which affects the digestion of foods and minerals and can lead to overall poor gut health.”

He also recommends avoiding or limiting your intake of processed meats, salt-cured foods, fried foods and artificial sweeteners.

“There is some evidence that frequent consumption of charred meats – charcoaling, smoking – and foods cooked at very high temperatures can produce carcinogens which may contribute to stomach cancer,” he says.

Inflammation of the stomach lining, called gastritis, can present a variety of symptoms, says Hendrickson, including upper abdominal pain, nausea, early fullness or pain after eating.

“Stomach ulcers are a more severe and deep disruption of the stomach lining,” he says. “Symptoms can be abdominal pain, bleeding and anemia, and most of the symptoms common to gastritis. Ulcers can be caused by NSAIDs, a bacteria called H. pylori, cancer and other causes.”

Distinguishing stomach problems from other areas of the digestive tract, such as the small bowel and colon, can be difficult. If symptoms are persistent or severe, Hendrickson says to visit your primary care physician or a gastroenterologist to be evaluated and receive the appropriate treatment.

THE IMPORTANCE OF EMERGENCY MEDICINE

Remaining calm and working quickly and e ciently during a medical crisis are just parts of the job for emergency medicine physicians. Mark Blubaugh, D.O., partner and medical director at Tulsa ER & Hospital, says the ability to make informed decisions under high-stress conditions is paramount.

“Rapidly identifying the underlying cause of a patient’s symptoms is crucial, as well as the ability to assess complex situations, prioritize interventions and adapt strategies in limited time and often with limited information,” says Blubaugh. “The ability to work collaboratively, delegate tasks and lead a team is vital, and emotional resilience is essential to maintain composure and cope with difficult situations.”

When emergency medicine physicians assess a patient in physical distress, Blubaugh says they follow a structured approach to quickly manage the situation. While exact steps and decisions will vary, the process begins with a primary assessment.

“The physician begins by quickly evaluating the patient’s general condition and addressing immediate life-threatening issues,” he says. “This is often done us-

ing the ‘ABC’s’ – Airway, Breathing and Circulation. Ensuring the patient has a patent airway for breathing, assessing the patient’s breathing pattern, rate and effort, and checking the patient’s heart rate, blood pressure and perfusion.”

After ensuring the ABC’s are stable, physicians then begin the standard history and physical exam to further assess the patient’s condition, and additional tests and treatments may be required for diagnosis and care. While some patients are

discharged, others may need surgery or a stay in the intensive care unit (ICU).

Blubaugh says those in emergency medicine think differently about patient care than most specialties. Identifying the most potentially dangerous life or limb-threatening conditions is first and foremost – and while a definitive diagnosis may not be achieved during the emergency visit, patients can be reassured that, if possible, their emergent conditions will be

Dr. Mark Blubaugh of Tulsa ER & Hospital says that speed and precision are both necessary skills to have as an emergency medicine physician.

Photo courtesy Tulsa ER & Hospital

THE PROS OF PHYSICAL THERAPY

Mike Flanary, physical therapist and coowner of Excel erapy, says physical therapy can be bene cial to anyone who is having pain or physical limitations in performing daily activities, recreational activities, or due to a sports-related injury, surgery or just a gradual onset of symptoms.

“Any orthopedic – muscle, tendon, bone or joint – problem can be treated by a physical therapist, but the most common body parts are shoulder, knee, hip, neck, back, foot and ankle,” says Flanary. “Physical therapists focus on improving a patient’s mobility, strength, movement and posture based on each individual’s needs to help them reach their goals and improve their functional ability. Although physical therapy may require a person to attend two to three times per week, the benefits

outweigh the alternative.”

While some may consider physical therapy as being only exercises such as stretching or strengthening, Flanary says many other treatments can be applied based upon a patient’s condition.

“Other techniques, such as functional dry needling, instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (Astym®), muscle energy techniques and manual therapy techniques can be applied to an individual’s treatment plan,” he says. “In Oklahoma, direct access allows you to be treated by a physical therapist for up to 30 days without a prescription for physical therapy – except Medicare, Medicaid or worker’s compensation, which requires a prescription. Most, if not all, insurances cover physical therapy.”

VERTIGO’S PREVALENCE

Sudden dizziness or the sensation that you’re spinning when you’re not is called vertigo. And while not a disease itself, it can be a symptom of many other health conditions.

There are two main types of vertigo: peripheral and central. The most common, peripheral, is caused by issues with the inner ear or vestibular nerve, which is responsible for helping maintain balance. Subtypes of peripheral vertigo include benign paroxys-

mal positional vertigo (BPPV), labyrinthitis, vestibular neuritis and Ménière’s disease. Central vertigo occurs when an individual is suffering from a condition affecting the brain, such as an infection, stroke or traumatic brain injury.

Since most people are unaware of when vertigo will strike and how long an episode will last, it’s critical to visit a physician – often an ear, nose and throat (ENT) special-

ist – to determine the cause of the vertigo. When experiencing vertigo, a few recommendations to help ease the dizziness are to move slowly when standing or turning your head; lying in a dark, quiet room; squatting down instead of bending over at the waist when picking something up; sleeping with your head elevated on pillows; and taking care to reduce the potential of falls.

Source: Cleveland Clinic

Physical therapy can benefit those with chronic pain or physical limitations.

Photo courtesy Excel Therapy

“Time is brain” when it comes to strokes. Saint Francis Health System offers two stroke centers – one in Tulsa and one in Muskogee.

Photo courtesy Saint Francis

STROKE: KNOW THE SIGNS

According to the Stroke Awareness Foundation, ischemic strokes represent about 87% of all strokes. Within 59 seconds, an ischemic stroke can potentially kill 1.9 million brain cells and cause varying levels of disability. In an ischemic stroke, a blood vessel becomes blocked by a blood clot and cuts o oxygen to a portion of the brain.

“When a patient has suffered an ischemic stroke, there are a variety of prognosis factors used, such as the NIH stroke scale score, where the greater the score means the greater severity of stroke, and imaging studies like MRIs and CT scans,” says Steven Hoover, M.D., an interventional neurologist with Saint Francis Health System in Tulsa. “But if a clot is cleared quickly enough, even with a severe stroke, patients can have a positive outcome.”

The most common drugs used to break up a clot that is disrupting the blood flow within the brain is thrombolytics, and ideally they should be given within three hours of experiencing a stroke to prevent long-term damage.

“The advent of thrombolytic agents was a big change in stroke care,” says Hoover. “Previously, we didn’t have any way to lessen the severity of the stroke and could only offer patients supportive care and treatments.”

Other technology that changed the landscape of stroke treatment has been the mechanical thrombectomy – a minimally invasive procedure using specialized equipment to surgically remove the blood clot.

“The mechanical thrombectomy has tremendously improved the outcome for stroke patients and, depending upon a patient’s condition, can be conducted within 24 hours after a stroke,” he says. “However, with all stroke care, the earlier treatment is received, the better.”

Within 59 seconds, ischemic strokes can kill 1.9 million brain cells. However, medical technology has greatly improved, giving stroke patients greater chances for recovery.

Photos courtesy Ascension St. John Health System

The CardioVascular Health Clinic is committed to providing high-quality heart and vascular care with a personalized approach to each individual patient. We utilize state-of-the-art technology and methods for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of the full spectrum o cardiovascular and vascular diseases.

JIM MELTON, DO VASCULAR SURGEON CO-FOUNDER

DWAYNE SCHMIDT, MD INTERVENTIONAL CARDIOLOGIST CO-FOUNDER

MARCUS SMITH, MD INTERVENTIONAL CARDIOLOGIST

LANCE GARNER, MD INTERVENTIONAL CARDIOLOGIST

SHERISA WARREN, DO VASCULAR SURGEON

JOHN SCHRADER, MD INTERVENTIONAL CARDIOLOGIST JOHN WILLIAMS, MD INTERVENTIONAL CARDIOLOGIST

BLAKE PARSONS, DO INTERVENTIONAL CARDIOLOGIST

SERENITY HOME

Kitchens and bathrooms provide an escape from the chaos of everyday life. Whether you’re slipping into a relaxing bath or sharing a routine meal with family and friends, these areas should be tailored to your exact wants and needs. We sit down with a few design experts and explore artful constructions and renovations around Oklahoma.

By Gina A. Dabney

The dining table, chairs and rugs in this nook were all sourced from Duvall Atelier.

An Entertainer’s Dream Space

is historic Tulsa domicile received a face-lift in the kitchen, dining and bath areas. Created in 1922, the home was built upon a sturdy foundation that could support a wide-scale renovation.

Spearheading the project was Duvall Atelier, which offers interior design and architecture services alongside a retail shop and showroom.

John Duvall served as head architect and Sherri Duvall served as head interior designer; this husband and wife duo brought a bevy of creative and sophisticated solutions to the space.

AN OVERALL LOOK

The powder bath, which was relocated to make more room for the kitchen, has abstract, patterned wall coverings and a “moody aesthetic.”

All photos of this project by Sarah Baker Photography

Because the original footprint of the kitchen and hall bath was limited, the powder room was relocated to grant additional space to the kitchen.

“We squeezed every inch out of the space,” says Sherri Duvall.

By creating an archway, the kitchen opens to the existing dining and living rooms, bringing in plenty of natural light. Since the homeowners entertain weekly, the new space needed – and got – a better flow. State-of-the-art lighting accents the homeowners extensive original art collection, with a new sound system to boot. For a fresh update, the wall color was lightened and complementary cabinetry colors worked with the home’s aesthetic.

This seamless kitchen has two dishwashers and a Thermador brand refrigerator.

The butler pantry is hidden away behind uniform doors for a seamless space addition.

DINING

Since the homeowners entertain often, the new archway allows a direct connection to the formal dining. New to the formal dining room is a dining table, chairs and hand-knotted rug, all sourced from Duvall Atelier.

In the dining nook, new windows and a three-panel patio door bring in natural light while providing gorgeous views of the back patio area and its landscaping. A custom-designed corner banquette, made of suede and mohair, accompanies the custom-designed dining table.

“This banquette maximized the seating capacity and brought a comfy-cozy element to this space that is used daily,” says Duvall.

POWDER ROOM

e relocated bath, which Duvall described as having a “moody aesthetic,” features a concrete sink and a oating vanity cabinet. A natural brass faucet and sconces adorn the area while the abstract patterned wall covering ties in with the black “ annel” marble hexagon oor tiles.

The Duvalls, through creative thinking and collaboration, achieved the optimal entertaining space for their clients.

KITCHEN

e kitchen now boasts a professional, 48-inch ermador brand range that integrates two induction burners onto the gas top.

The island, which has ample seating, has two dishwashers that flank a large, deep sink. A Thermador brand refrigerator and freezer towers bookend the appliance wall and are conveniently located for efficient cooking.

BUTLER PANTRY AND COFFEE BAR

Floor-to-ceiling storage for china and pantry items and “secret” center doors reveal the hidden walk-in butler pantry and co ee bar area. is space, which includes extra pantry shelving, has refrigerator drawers providing reach-in access for bottled beverages and co ee creamers.

The microwave oven located here keeps the appliance out of the main kitchen’s valuable real estate.

Streamlined with Maximum Eff iciency

If you’re looking to bring your kitchen into the future, luxury brand Gaggenau can help. But where to start?

The Range, Reconsidered may be a good place.

Seamlessly join together modular cooktops, including the Gaggenau Vario 400 series cooktop, Teppanyaki grill, electric grill and induction with an oven, combisteam oven, combi-microwave oven, plus a vacuuming or warming drawer below.

Also enticing is the discreet downdraft ventilation. The Vario 400 Series Downdraft System o ers uninterrupted sight lines, ideal for open-plan living, plus e ortless, quiet cleaning of the air – all without a hood.

The refrigerator in the butler pantry provides reach-in access for bottled beverages and coffee creamers.

The custom zinc hood over the oven range was designed by John Duvall and created by Empire.

Photos courtesy Gaggenau

Ahead of the Curve

Wine aficionados should invest in Sub-Zero’s Designer Undercounter

Aesthetics and Practicality

Built in 1973, this ranch-style home received a kitchen remodel that incorporates a cozy dining nook. e kitchen, remodeled and designed by TimerLane Interiors, includes a custom banquette area created by Huntington ID, a full-service residential and commercial interior design rm located in Tulsa. Tracy Huntington, owner and interior designer, highlights this project.

AN OVERALL LOOK

is 3,000-square-foot home has a wideranging color scheme that combines earth tones with blue accents. One standout accomplishment was the design and installation of a truly unique custom banquette.

“It is the focal point of the kitchen,” says Huntington, “showcasing a perfect balance of aesthetics and practicality.”

KITCHEN

Inspired by the home’s 1970s roots, this remodel incorporates warm wood tones, classic cabinetry and eye-catching brass xtures.

“Our favorite kitchen elements are the stained cabinets, large island and the custom banquette,” says Huntington.

DINING NOOK

e nook, which is used daily, infuses stylish elements like faux leather fabric and a custom-channeled texture making it a “one-of-a-kind” design feature. e custom-made curved banquette optimizes the space, as opposed to lling the area with a traditional con guration of a dining table and chairs. rough its design, the banquette also encourages conversation and togetherness.

The modern circular table and chairs give ample seating while a modern light fixture floats above. With four windows bringing in natural light, the area has become a beautiful, comfortable and stylish place to eat and socialize.

“We designed the breakfast nook with family gatherings in mind,” says Huntington.

This remodel centered around the wants and needs of the home owners, who requested a casual, family friendly seating in their kitchen. They also desired a warm color scheme along with a comfortable design.

“It’s truly satisfying when functional spaces are transformed into beautiful areas,” says Huntington.

Wine Storage, which o ers a sleek and sophisticated solution for storing your favorite bottles. The product – alongside providing guards against heat, humidity, light and vibrations – also comes with endless customization options to fit your space.

Also from Sub-Zero, the Classic Series Classic French Door Refrigerator o ers a timeless design and features like Split Climate intelligent cooling and ClearSight LED lighting. It’s available in signature stainless steel and panelready options and works to keep food fresher for longer.

The modern circular table and chairs give ample seating while a modern light fixture adds visual interest.

Inspired by the home’s 1970s aesthetic, this remodel utilizes warm wood tones, classic cabinetry along and brass fixtures.

All photos of this project by Sarah Baker Photography

Photos courtesy Sub-Zero/Hunter PR

Two Historic Home Renovations

Design rm Kitchen Ideas, located in Tulsa, focuses on complete remodels of kitchens and bathrooms. Founded in 1976 by Roger Shollmier, the design company is now owned by Michael orp. Design Team member Janae Dixon walks through two recent kitchen remodels tackled by the company.

Kitchen 1: Staying True to an Era

Built in 1925, this home is in a historic neighborhood of Tulsa. e kitchen, which had previously been divided into three spaces, was converted into one open area.

“We wanted to make sure to stay true to the history of the house while modernizing the space,” says Dixon.

AN OVERALL LOOK

e homeowners, who were inspired by the bistros they visited during numerous trips to France, often cook fresh meals based on what is available at local farmer’s markets. So, they wanted a renovated, fresh kitchen in which to cook.

The kitchen has a Ilve brand range, which also boats a pizza oven and rotisserie.

Keeping the kitchen enclosed – as opposed to opening it up to the dining room – was a design element requested by the homeowners. They also wanted an island with no seating or appliances so that it served solely as a prep area. The color palette is black and white with pops of natural wood.

A few of Dixon’s favorite elements in this updated kitchen include the soapstone countertops with flecks of gold, the tiled wall behind the range, the custom-stained and -designed stove vent hood and the lighted glass display cabinet.

Revamp Your Space

Keeping things aesthetically pleasing while delivering the optimum output is where Miele appliances come in.

For those with a love for fresh produce, the PerfectCool Built-in Bottom Mount Refrigerator/Freezer is a must-buy. The product o ers active humidification, meaning your produce will stay fresh five times longer. How? The PerfectFresh Active technology converts water droplets into vapor and releases it in the form of a waterfall. Other perks include a built-in ice maker, adjustable glass shelving and uniform temperature distribution.

If you’re hoping to revamp the entire kitchen, Miele’s Generation 7000 line of built-in appliances o ers a combinable range of products, from conventional and combisteam ovens to co ee systems.

Kitchen 2: Cozy and Inviting

is Tulsa home, built in 1929, has a color scheme of warm gray and black, along with accents of natural wood.

“By using warm tones and natural elements such as the stained wood and soapstone counters, we were able to keep the kitchen cozy and inviting and cohesive with the entire house,” says Dixon, who was the head designer on this remodel.

AN OVERALL LOOK

In this kitchen remodel, the owners desired a space to cook while not feeling isolated from others during entertaining. A wall was partially removed, and widening the opening created a better ow into the adjacent rooms. An exterior door and window were also removed to repurpose the existing space.

The previously unused eating nook is now a bar area, with floor-to-ceiling pantry cabinets along with an abundance of drawers.

“It needed to have good flow and space for their family while maintaining warmth and coziness,” says Dixon.

Dixon’s favorite elements are the new larger window that lets in loads of natural light as well as the soapstone backsplash. A walnut cabinet, now a hidden coffee bar, is one of the homeowners’ favorite elements of the remodel.

The Kitchen Ideas team successfully renovated two distinct kitchens and gave the homeowners their desired serene spaces.

Photos courtesy Miele

The homeowners’ kitchen design ideas were inspired by the bistros they’ve visited on their trips to France.

Photo courtesy Kitchen Ideas

Photo by Jess Renae Photography

Photo

Jess Renae

Photo

A toJourneyTranquility

is ranch-style home in Tulsa, with its modern and organic aesthetic, was built in 2016. Interior design professional Jill Croka – owner and creative director of Jill Croka Designs – helmed the creation of the kitchen and primary bathroom. e design studio, established in 2010, o ers a full range of interior design services.

AN OVERALL LOOK

e homeowner desired a calming space that provided room for an art collection. Also important was a kitchen and great room designed for entertaining – all while retaining an intimate feel.

The goal of the kitchen was to be a place of serenity while being visually captivating. In the primary bathroom, the focus was to achieve a spa-like atmosphere that could become a haven for restoration and renewal.

Providing warmth within the color scheme is a mix of natural wood tones, stone and blue hues, all of which the homeowner gravitates toward. The smoky blues used are a neutral color that work well throughout the home. Clean craftsmanship and simple details made for chal-

lenges to details such as concrete joints and hardware. All was neatly resolved – resulting in a beautiful and harmonious home.

“There are always challenges in construction,” Croka says. “Solving those issues can create an incredible design.”

KITCHEN

Dulce Vita marble and a stunning Lindsey Adleman chandelier were the inspiration and cornerstones for this new space. e brushed Bulthaup cabinets and the chandelier itself are Croka’s favorite elements in this kitchen, and she wanted the area to remain open to the rest of the home.

“I wanted the kitchen to be a part of the great room,” she says.

PRIMARY BATH

To achieve a spa-like atmosphere in the primary bath, leathered stone with lavender and blue hues were used, while also mixing in woodwork of brushed ash with a custom-stain. Special elements include the stone wall behind the soaker tub, which is anked by two oor-to-ceiling windows that bring in natural light.

The primary bathroom’s tub showcases exposed plumbing, creating a visually interesting element.

The brushed Bulthaup cabinets are one of designer Jill Croka’s favorite elements in this kitchen.

All photos of this project by Adam Murphy Photography

The tub’s exposed plumbing makes an artful and visually interesting element. In this bathroom, Croka’s favorite features are the rose-colored plumbing fixtures and the leathered stone.

Across from the free-standing tub is a bank of storage cabinets and drawers. The floating two-sink vanity with a large mirror and luxurious lighting create a truly peaceful atmosphere.

“The custom lighting elevates the space to the spa-like vibe we were after,” she says.

Master of the Kitchen

Combining bold and professional style with the newest technologies, the Wolf Professional Induction Range seamlessly integrates within any kitchen and provides precise temperature control.

Another option for dependable and delicious results is the Wolf Induction Cooktop, which presents a scratch-resistant and easy-to-clean ceramic glass surface, along with heat control and nearly instantaneous temperature response.

For those still partial to a gas oven, the Wolf Dual Fuel Range is just the ticket – ensuring guesswork-free cooking. The range comes with patented gas sealed burners on top and a Dual VertiFlow convection system below.

Family Friendly and Sophisticated

Completed in 2021, this newly built stunning home is located in the Nichols Hills area of Oklahoma City. Ross See, principal of Sees Design, helmed the project.

Sees Design focuses on creating unique and personalized living spaces. The company’s services encompass the complete design process – from selecting materials to managing projects, interior architecture and designing exteriors.

This specific home, which is a unique blend of “romantic modernism,” offers a contemporary twist on traditional design.

AN OVERALL LOOK

See handpicked the architect and builder for this project: Scott Torode and Chris Candelaria, respectively. The family, a second-generation client of Sees Design, desired a home that is “family friendly” while maintaining a mature, sophisticated design.

That being said, there are plenty of spaces for the kids to play – such as

Photos courtesy Wolf/Hunter PR

Some of See’s favorite elements in the kitchen are the custom Venetian plaster vent hood, the Ann Sacks Zelig handmade fish scale tile and the French cooktop burner. All photos of this project by Stephen Karlish

hidden lofts in their rooms – while an in-wall water dispenser in the pantry is convenient for everyone. Also utilized is furniture created with “performance fabric,” making it stain-resistant and a practical choice for formal and informal areas in the home.

KITCHEN

Creating a typical kitchen where appliances are the focus was not the goal for this client.

“Instead, we centered it around an amazing Calcutta marble island, perfect for family dining and entertainment,” says See.

Some of See’s favorite elements here are the custom Venetian plaster vent hood, the Ann Sacks Zelig handmade fish scale tile and the impressive French cook top burner on the 60-inch Wolf brand stove.

PANTRY

From daily coffee to toasting, this pantry is an essential space for the family. The room has hidden appliances, like the refrigerator and microwave, and is perfectly suited for functionality and privacy.

“This space plays a significant role in daily routines,” says See.

The pantry achieves functionality while maintaining a spacious feel. The mirrored backsplash and the “dark moody vibe” from the high gloss paint opens the space and creates a roomy atmosphere.

PRIMARY BATHROOM

This luxurious bathroom has an oversized tub on a pedestal, a shower with a double-head faucet and a Neorest brand heated toilet – leading the way to relaxation and pampering.

“The primary goal here,” says See, “was to provide a tranquil space for our clients. This bathroom truly reflects our client’s tastes.”

A mosaic marble tile floor, which has hints of purple, was created by Kelly Wearstler, and the Terrazzo slab shower adds a dramatic twist to this space. The antique mirrored wall behind the tub, which gives a “touch of timelessness,” is another favorite element.

The kitchen features a Calcutta marble island, perfect for family dining and entertainment.

The pantry, which has hidden appliances including the refrigerator and microwave, is suited for functionality and privacy.

This luxurious bathroom boasts an oversized tub on a pedestal.

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TASTE

FOOD, DRINK AND OTHER PLEASURES

Made Entirely of Nostalgia and Joy Elliot Nelson’s secret ingredients at Jimmy’s Chophouse? Care and attention, of course.

The night Elliot Nelson told his parents he was building a big Irish pub in downtown Tulsa, they drove to see the neighborhood for themselves. What they found was a collection of dark, deserted streets, punctuated by low-slung, dilapidated shells of hundred-year-old warehouses.

They couldn’t see the future, so they didn’t know that after several years of working 100-hour weeks for $17,000 a year, living on leftover hamburgers and beer prepared for patrons who never showed up, their Elliot would become a glorious success – hailed by many as the “King of Tulsa” for that big Irish pub – McNellie’s. What they did know, however, was that the city had been trying for decades to develop that area of downtown, and were met with failure. And yet, they gave him their total support.

“My mom used to tell me,” Nelson recalls, “that you can do anything you can set your mind to. Maybe there were some days when she regretted telling me that, but my parents lavished me with unrelenting support and unconditional love. They wanted to support my dreams.”

Perhaps that’s why Nelson’s newest venue, Jimmy’s Chophouse, is named for his father.

Growing up in Tulsa, Nelson never imagined he’d be a restaurateur. But, he says, he should have.

“Childhood memories of food and restaurants are the memories that stick with me the longest,” he says. “Even little things, like looking forward to the check because that’s when they give you bright green wrapped Andes mints. My favorite thing in life is going out to a restaurant and sharing a meal with people.”

Nelson and his family went out a lot, often on Sundays. They’d go to places like Italian Inn, Jamil’s and Celebrity Club, places with dark, old dining rooms and red leather booths. When Italian film director Federico

Fellini wanted to pay homage to his childhood, he created one of his greatest masterpieces, Amarcord, a film that critic Roger Ebert said was “made entirely out of nostalgia and joy.” Nelson is not a filmmaker, so he, instead, created Jimmy’s with those exact same ingredients.

One thing Nelson admires most about his father is that “Dad treated people well and cared for them no matter what their station.” From him, Nelson learned to assemble a strong team. Which was how he built Jimmy’s.

For example, he told his executive chef Ben Alexander, James Beard semi-finalist and food genius, that he wanted a 12-ounce meatball. Alexander went through at least ten versions before he created the rich, juicy giant that’s on the menu today.

“Ben has so much pride in his product,” says Nelson. “That’s why he puts so much time and care in.”

That’s the hallmark of the food you’re served at Jimmy’s. They are classic dishes from Nelson’s childhood memories, but recreated with so much care that they are better than they’ve ever been. Take the stalwart of fine dining, the chicken breast. Here, it’s cooked very slowly, and frequently basted in duck fat.

“Yes – it’s still chicken breast,” says Nelson, “but care and attention make it spectacular.”

And so it is for the entire menu. The steaks, aged beauties from Creekstone Farms, are superb of course, but so are the other entrees, including sea bass, shrimp scampi, spaghetti with that giant meatball and many more.

All are served with elegance amidst the sort of gleaming wood and modern decor you’d see in a 1950s movie. And every meal at Jimmy’s begins with a complimentary relish tray –with the same breadsticks and cheese dip that Nelson remembers so vividly from Italian Inn. Later, when your bill comes, it arrives with those shiny green Andes mints.

BRIAN SCHWARTZ

Elliot Nelson, leader of McNellie’s Restaurant Group, opened his newest concept, Jimmy’s Chophouse, over the summer.

Photo by Stephanie Phillips

Much More Than Bar Food

Nestled comfortably on Main Street in Norman, the Winston is a favorite among college students and suburban Normanites alike.

To call the offerings of the Winston “just bar food” is a complete understatement of the meticulously crafted meals and cocktails you’ll find there. The menu features a variety of dishes – ranging from appetizers like jerk chicken lettuce cups and chicken fried quail to main courses like the spicy grilled adobo burger and the seared ahi mazesoba.

Specialty cocktails include the Jessica Rabbit, a gin-based drink with carrot-ginger syrup and fresh lemon and mint; My Hands are Thai’d, a rum and ginger liqueur drink with lemongrass syrup and fresh lime and basil; and the Chip-otle off the Old Block, a margarita-style cocktail with tequila, pineapple rum, chipotle-pineapple syrup and fresh lime. For dessert, try a ricotta fritter or nitro espresso martini.

The best way to liven up the beginning of the week? The Winston’s $2 Tuesday special. Choose between a variety of tacos: crispy pork belly, spicy shrimp, miso veggie or Tinga chicken, or go with corn dogs, buffalo wontons and parmesan truffle fries. All of these mouthwatering dishes, alongside “chambongs,” mimosas and a selection of beers are just $2.95 all Tuesday long.

If you’re in town on the weekend, head to the restaurant for its delicious brunch offerings; including, but not limited to, huevos rancheros, Johnny cakes, shrimp and grits, and avocado on sourdough toast.

To start your morning with a kick, the Winston offers boozy breakfast classics like Irish coffee, the Spicy Mary and the staple mimosa.

Community First

Operating out of Foolish Things Coffee, et al., a James Beard Best New Restaurant semifinalist, will soon be your new favorite pop-up restaurant. et al. is a collective of talented chefs, working together to liven up Tulsa’s food scene with delicious, made-from-scratch meals and equitable business practices in the food and beverage industry.

The tiny but mighty team is currently running five different food concepts, or what we would call “flavor exhibitions.” Bischix, a biscuit sandwich concept menu, features – you guessed it – a variety of different biscuit sandwiches that change with each iteration of the event, along with a small offering of cocktails and beers. Compaignon is the collective’s delectable French food and wine program and an overall celebration of community. Pickles at the Barbeque is a six-course, Southern, flavor-packed food party that uses produce at its peak freshness to ensure you’re chowing down on the best meal possible. Japanese Breakfast, served every Sunday, is a set menu of eight Japanese breakfast staples. The Butter Bar is a dessert pop-up that features seasonally inspired small bites. Finally, Dumpling Night happens every Wednesday and features Japanese fried chicken, milk tea and of course, hand-folded dumplings.

Yes, the food is obviously incredible. However, their care for staff – including full profit distribution and equal pay among workers, for example – makes the group an entirely different kind of admirable. With the collective’s emphasis on maintaining a happy and healthy team, creating delicious food and fostering community through the meals they make ... why wouldn’t you want to eat at et al.?

STAFF

Photo courtesy The Winston

Photo courtesy et al

Piecing Together a Delicious Puzzle

Chef Lupe Garcia of Trompudo’s Tacos works to make his parents proud.

Best known as Chef Lupe, Guadalupe Garcia –chef-owner of Trompudo’s Tacos on May Avenue in Oklahoma City – has a generations-deep affinity for all things cuisine.

“What began as a passion for cooking goes much further for me,” he says. “Ultimately, through cooking, I realized my passion is guest satisfaction. I was blessed with my father having a successful restaurant chain with multiple locations. This was instrumental for me to learn about different kitchen layouts, workflows and processes.”

Flavors are an art form, he believes.

“There is an infinite number of combinations between different spices, herbs, textures, meats, aromas, temperatures, presentations,” says the chef. “There’s something special about successfully fitting endless puzzle pieces together and creating a unique experience. I see this entire process as an art form that extends to every cuisine. Pick any cuisine, and you will find a masterful artist who has successfully solved and pieced together a delicious puzzle.”

Great dishes originate from fine ingredients – and Garcia has one favorite in his arsenal.

“I enjoy working with peppers,” says Lupe. “There is a vast array of peppers, each of which offers a unique flavor and spice. There are so many different dishes you can prepare with fresh, dried, smoked or grilled peppers. Successfully combining those peppers with other ingredients is a fascinating experience.”

The chef’s style and passion is exemplified by a signature dish. The Trompo is built with layers of marinated pork, pressed one on top of the other while being cut and formed into the shape of a trompo – or a spinning top. The Trompo is then cooked by fire on a vertical spit, and once the outside edges are fire-roasted and ready to serve, the ‘Trompero’ skillfully cuts thin slices from the cooked edges.

Growing up, Garcia was immersed in all things food.

“I was always surrounded by the idea and practice of cooking,” he says. “ Both of my parents were cooks. My mother cooked for the household, while my father cooked to provide for our family. Cooking was never a daunting or unachievable task for me, especially as I am a naturally curious person who enjoys challenging myself. There are very few things that bring me joy like cooking a delicious meal does, especially when I get to share it with others.”

Garcia clearly enjoyed watching his parents cook, and as he grew older, he took advantage of any opportunity to expand his skills.

“I was ten when my cooking no longer relied on canned or prepared foods,” he says. “I was able to piece together a few basic meals from different ingredients. As I became comfortable with cooking on

our stove-top, I wanted to learn how to use the oven as well.”

The chef’s formal training began in his father’s restaurant, where he also learned new skills at each stage of his development by cooking “what felt like thousands of tortillas,” he says.

He worked every job at his father’s business, learning everything from peeling and cutting vegetables to de-veining shrimp, making salsa, and working the fryer for chips, taco shells and tostadas. He learned the ins and outs of the kitchen, and what it really takes to execute – and nail – each dish.

Today, Garcia offers his take on the traditional taqueria experience. He credits his parents and says they are “my inspiration as well as my heroes. I have witnessed what someone can achieve with determination and will. Their teachings, love and support are the reasons I shoot for the stars. It’s not that I want or care to shine, instead, I want them to see that they have succeeded.”

TRACY LEGRAND

Chef Lupe’s Salsa de Piña

20 grams Chile de árbol

100 grams Diced yellow onion

10 grams Fresh peeled and finely diced garlic cloves

5 grams Tellicherry

peppercorns

600 grams Fresh pineapple

25 grams Table salt

30 grams White distilled vinegar

12 ounces Water

One of Trompudo’s most popular dishes is the al pastor taco, topped with the salsa de pina.

Lupe Garcia, chef-owner at Trompudo’s Tacos, began his formal training at a young age in his father’s restaurant.

Photos courtesy Lupe Garcia

Gambill’s Jewish Deli

Located off Route 66 and Lewis Ave. sits your new favorite sandwich shop, Gambill’s Jewish Deli and Wine Bar. With an emphasis on dry-cured pastrami and oven-baked brisket, Gambill’s sandwiches are heftily stacked with meats and toppings on either seedless Jewish rye or club bread. Along with your larger-than-life sandwich comes house-made half sour pickles and kettle chips.

There are three house sandwiches on the menu, and you can’t go wrong with any of them. The Pauli, named after owner Hunter Stone Gambill’s mother, features brisket, horseradish mayonnaise and smoked provolone on club bread. The Pistol features dry-cured pastrami, house-made spicy mustard, Swiss cheese and sauerkraut on seedless Jewish rye. The Hunter is a reuben with pastrami, Russian dressing, Swiss cheese and sauerkraut on rye.

In addition to the tasty sandwiches, Gambill’s has a robust wine list, offering wines by the glass, or flights if you’re feeling indecisive. The restaurant also boasts a full Spanish espresso bar for a pick-me-up after your heavy (but delicious) meal!

Momo’s Chophouse

With the highest-grade USDA

Prime and dryaged steaks, plus fresh, sustainable seafood, Momo’s Chophouse is one of Tulsa’s finest dining experiences. Momo’s strives to exceed expectations and provide an extraordinary experience for their guests. The elegant, high-end atmosphere is sure to leave you feeling better than when you first walked in.

The menu is delicately crafted to serve ingredients at their peak freshness, with plates rotating throughout the seasons. The aforementioned sustainable seafood is ethically sourced and flown in daily. The knowledgeable and friendly staff are sure to guide you on a delicious journey with their food and wine expertise. If you have any questions on dinner pairings, be sure to head to the wrap-around bar where you can be advised on what wine will best suit your steak or seafood.

Flo’s Burger Diner

Flo’s Burger Diner is a classic ’50s-inspired burger joint with a menu that is as deep fried as it is delicious. With two locations serving Tulsa and Catoosa, Flo’s is the stop for some of the juiciest burgers and fries in Oklahoma.

With signature menu items being the Bomb Burger, a jalapeño popper burger, the Floyaki Burger, a teriyaki mayo burger with pineapple and bacon, and the Sizzling Sizzler, a spicy pepper jack cheese and jalapeño burger, Flo is sure to bring the flavor to an American delicacy.

On top of the dish it’s best known for, Flo’s also features Frito chili pies, chili cheese dogs and loaded Polish sausage. If you’re unable to visit Flo’s in person or are hosting a large event, the diner offers all-inclusive catering for your next party.

Wild Horse Mountain BBQ

In the foothills of Wildhorse Mountain Range near Sallisaw sits Wild Horse Mountain Bar-B-Que Company. After 50 years of business and a foundation built off the recipes of Hubert and Betty Holman, the delicious barbecue restaurant has continued to be proudly family produced after all this time. The small-town southern comfort combined with the knockout flavors of the barbecue makes for an incredibly unforgettable experience.

Wild Horse has classic barbecue offerings like sliced and chopped beef, pork ribs and hot links, sold by the pound. The true show stopper of Wild Horse is its signature barbecue sauce, served at three different spice levels: mild, medium and hot. If you’re craving Wild Horse but can’t make it to Sallisaw, their world-class sauce is sold in some grocery stores – the owners even encourage customers to share their recipes using the sauce ... unless they happen to be top secret, of course.

Photo courtesy Wild Horse Mountain BBQ

Photo courtesy Flo’s Burger Diner

Photo courtesy Momo’s Chophouse

Photo courtesy Gambill’s Jewish Deli

WHERE & WHEN

GREAT THINGS TO DO IN OKLAHOMA

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

FAIRS, FESTIVALS AND FRIGHTS

With autumn’s welcomed arrival, there are plenty of community events for the whole family to enjoy.

IN TULSA PERFORMANCES

CELEBRITY ATTRACTIONS

PRESENTS:

ALADDIN Through Oct. 1 Tulsa

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

ANJELAH JOHNSONREYES Oct. 6 Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Enjoy a night of laughs from comedian Anjelah Johnson-Reyes. hardrockcasinotulsa.com

TULSA SYMPHONY PRESENTS: MASQUERADE Oct.

7 Tulsa Performing Arts

Center Join Tulsa Symphony in celebrating Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 9. tulsasymphony.org

CHAMBER MUSIC TULSA

PRESENTS: WINDSYNC Oct.

13-15 Various locations Join wind quintet WindSync for three nights of beautiful music. chambermusictulsa.org

TULSA BALLET PRESENTS: JACK AND THE BEANSTALK Oct. 13-14 Studio

K Join the Tulsa Ballet in retelling this classic fairytale through dance. tulsaballet.org

PENN & TELLER Oct.

20 River Spirit Casino and Resort Join the comedy and illusionist duo at the Cove for a night of cool tricks and big laughs. riverspirittulsa.com

BOBBY BONES Oct. 20 Hard

Rock Hotel & Casino Join this comedian and radio host on his Comedically Inspirational tour. hardrockcasinotulsa.com

BOK CENTER PRESENTS:

NATE BARGATZE Oct. 20 BOK Center Comedian Nate Bargatze brings his Be Funny tour to Tulsa. bokcenter.com

TULSA OPERA PRESENTS:

MENOTTI’S THE MEDIUM Oct. 20-21 Studio

308 Enjoy a chilling opera that will send shivers down your spine. tulsaopera.com

CONCERTS

JONAS BROTHERS Oct.

3 BOK Center Join the Jonas Brothers for a night of old favorites and new hits. bokcenter. com

FOREIGNER Oct. 5 River

Spirit Casino Resort See this rock band on their Farewell Tour. riverspirittulsa.com

ERIC JOHNSON Oct. 12 Cain’s Ballroom Rock out at Cain’s Ballroom with Grammy Award winner Eric Johnson for one

TULSA OKTOBERFEST 1

In Green Country, check out the First Friday Art Crawl downtown on Oct. 6. The Tulsa State Fair is finishing out its residency at Expo Square through Oct. 8. For a bit of ghostly fun for the season, the Second Saturday Architecture Tour – starting at the Tulsa Foundation for Architecture – will have a haunting twist on Oct. 14. After your spooky tour, check out the Kendall-Whittier art festival in the district, also on the 14th. Finally, Oktoberfest is back! Bring your best lederhosen and an empty stomach to River West Festival Park on Oct. 19-22 for a memorable, or not so memorable experience (depending on how many steins you down)!

In and around Oklahoma City, the Paseo Arts District’s First Friday Gallery Walk takes place on Oct. 6. If you’d prefer to celebrate Halloween throughout the month, Frontier City will have Fright Fest through Oct.

night only. cainsballroom.com

CASEY DONAHEW Oct. 13 Osage

Casino’s Skyline Event Center Grab your boots and cowboy hat and join Casey Donahew for a night of live country music. osagecasino. com

CASTING CROWNS Oct.

19 Mabee Center Join the award winning Christian band for their 20th anniversary tour. mabeecenter.com

BILLY OCEAN Oct. 20 Osage Casino’s Skyline Event Center Internationally renowned R&B pop and Grammy Award-winning artist Billy Ocean makes his way to Tulsa. osagecasino.com

NEEDTOBREATHE Oct. 21 BOK

Center Join these Christian rockers for a night of their hits. bokcenter. com

CHRIS STAPLETON Oct. 26 BOK

Center Join country music star Chris Stapleton at his All-American Road Show tour in Tulsa. bokcenter.com

HERE COME THE MUMMIES Oct. 28 Osage Casino’s Skyline Event Center Join Here Come The Mummies for a uniquely undead dance party. osagecasino. com

ART KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON

ART SHOW Oct. 6-28 Tulsa

Artists Coalition In conjunction with the release of Killers of the Flower Moon film hitting theaters this month, crew members share treasured art and artifacts from the film. tacgallery.org

PROTECTION: ADAPTATION &

RESISTANCE Through 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

TRADE & TRANSFORMATION Oct. 18-Dec. 31 Philbrook Every object holds a story. Across time and cultures, makers have embedded the objects they create with diverse histories. philbrook.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

29, and Orr Family Farm is hosting their Fall Festival through Nov. 11.

Celebrate Chickasaw culture and heritage at the Chickasaw Nation annual meeting and festival in Tishomingo through Oct. 7. If you need a pumpkin for your Jack O’Lantern or pie, check out Annabelle’s Fun Farm in Welch through Oct. 29, Chester’s Pumpkin Patch in Piedmont through Oct. 31 or the Pumpkin Festival at Shepherd’s Cross in Claremore through Nov. 4.

full-scale log cabin built from the skeleton of a late-1800s pioneer home. philbrook.org

SPORTS

FC TULSA Oct. 7 ONEOK Field FC Tulsa competes against the Indy Eleven. fctulsa.com

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

WWE SMACKDOWN LIVE Oct. 13 BOK Center Join WWE stars as they tussle live in Tulsa. bokcenter.com

NITRO CIRCUS LIVE Oct. 14 BOK Center Watch as some of the world’s most extreme athletes perform tricks on FMX, BMX and skate at Nitro Circus Live. bokcenter.com

UNIVERSITY OF TULSA FOOTBALL Oct. 19 H.A. Chapman Stadium The Tulsa Hurricane plays at home. tulsahurricane.com

U.S. NATIONAL ARABIAN & HALF-ARABIAN CHAMIONSHIP HORSE SHOW Oct. 19-28 Expo Square The U.S. National Arabian & Half-Arabian Championship Horse show is the most prestigious Arabian horse show in North America. arabianhorses.org

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

COMMUNITY

ROSES, CHALK & KITES, OH

MY! Through Oct. 1 Rose District, Broken Arrow A weekend full of family friendly fun includes chalk

art, live music, street performers and food trucks. keepbabeautiful.

org

FIRST FRIDAY ART CRAWL Oct.

6 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

ART IN THE SQUARE Oct.

7 Utica Square Head to Utica Square for watercolors, oils, stained glass, pottery, sculpture, woodturning and more. uticasquare.com

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

ART CRAWL ON 66 Oct. 13 Various locations Join Tulsan artists, musicians and performers on the Mother Road on the second Friday through December. travelok.com

SECOND SATURDAY ARCHITECTURE TOUR: HAUNTED

TULSA Oct. 14 100 E. Second St. Take a fun and educational walking tour during the Second Saturday Architecture Tour. tulsaarchitecture.org

KENDALL WHITTIER ART FESTIVAL Oct. 14 Kendall Whittier District The Kendall Whittier District comes alive with art, live music and interactive activities for the whole family. visitkendallwhittier.com

OKTOBERFEST Oct. 19-22 River

West Festival Park Celebrate Bavarian culture with Tulsa’s premier festival. tulsaoktoberfest. org

BOOHAHA Oct. 21 Brookside Bring the family down to Brookside for Tulsa’s iconic Hallow-

een parade. brooksidetheplacetobe.com

TULSA RUN Oct. 28 Downtown Tulsa Join fellow Tulsans in the event that has been one of Oklahoma’s most historic runs. runsignup.com/TulsaRun

PUMPKIN TOWN FARMS Through Oct. 31 6060 S. Garnett Rd. Bring the family to enjoy Pumpkin Town’s various fall activities. pumpkintownfarm.com

AUTUMN IN THE GARDEN Through Oct. 31 Tulsa

Botanic Garden This event includes pumpkin displays, Bands & Blooms on Thursday nights and Scarecrows In the Garden. tulsabotanic.org

CHARITABLE EVENTS

TULSA HALL OF FAME INDUCTION CEREMONY Oct. 2 Southern Hills Country Club Join the Tulsa Historical Society and Museum to induct seven Tulsans into the Tulsa Hall of Fame. tulsahistory.org

A CONCERT UNDER THE STARS Oct. 5 Harwelden Mansion Blessings to Share Foundation, an organization serving transition-age, neurodiverse adults living with intellectual and developmental disabilities, hosts a concert benefitting C.A.R.E.S. Club. blessingstoshare.org

LINDSEY HOUSE PORCH PARTY Oct. 5 Cain’s Ballroom Supporting the Lindsey House mission of serving women and children experiencing situational homelessness, the Porch

Photo courtesy Tulsa Oktoberfest

Party will feature a great meal, drinks and live entertainment. lindseyhouse.org

DIVAS 4 HOPE Oct. 6 Cox Business Convention Center Benefitting Health Outreach Prevention Education, Divas 4 Hope offers performances of hits from the ’80s and today. divas4hope. org

HUMAN NATURE Oct. 7 The Arboretum at Woodward Park Benefitting Up With Trees, Human Nature is a family friendly event featuring live performances and interactive activities. humannatureok.org

ROCK THE HOUSE Oct.

7 Cox Business Convention Center Benefitting the Green Country Habitat for Humanity, rock out in support of charity. rockthehousetulsa.org

BAPS ANNUAL GOLF TOUR-

NAMENT Oct. 9 Forrest Ridge Golf Course Tee off in support of Broken Arrow Public Schools. bapsfoundation.org

TATAS, TINIS AND TENNIS Oct. 12 Case Tennis Center at TU Join Oklahoma Project Woman for an event benefitting breast healthcare for uninsured women. oklahomaprojectwoman.org

PATHWAYS’ FALL CARNIVAL Oct. 14 Pathways Adult Learning Center Parking Lot This fun fall carnival benefits adults with intellectual disabilities. pathwaysok.org

ROCK, PAPER, SCISSORS Oct. 14 Cox Business Convention Center Amp up the volume with the Pencil Box, an organization benefitting Tulsa’s schoolchildren. thepencilbox. org

HALLOWZOOEEN Oct. 20-22; 27-29 Tulsa Zoo Dress in your most creative costumes and bring the entire family down to the Tulsa Zoo for a night of spooky, but not scary, fun! tulsazoo.org

HALLOWEEN BASH Oct.

21 Gateway Building Enjoy a frightful fundraiser benefitting Tulsa Foundation for Architecture. tulsaarchitecture.org

NOCHE DE GALA Oct.

21 OSU-Tulsa Main Hall Join the Tulsa Hispanic American Foundation in a gala benefitting their organization’s mission of preserving, appreciating and promoting Hispanic culture in Tulsa. haftulsa.org

TRIVIA FOR A CAUSE Oct.

25 OU-Tulsa Founder’s Hall Enjoy a night of trivia, dinner and other activities benefitting Pause4Paws. pause4pawsok.org

CORKS AND KEGS Oct.

27 Cain’s Ballroom Eat, drink and be scary! Indulge in delicious food, beer and wine to benefit the Eastern Oklahoma Chapter of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. events.cff.org

IN OKC PERFORMANCES

LYRIC THEATRE PRES-

ENTS: CONCERTO Through 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

OKC BROADWAY PRES-

ENTS: SIX Through Oct.

1 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

OKC PHILHARMONIC

PRESENTS: GOTHIC

MIDNIGHT Oct. 7 Civic Center Music Hall Join the OKC Philharmonic for a night of stunning spooky music. okcphil.org

SUNDAY TWILIGHT CONCERT SERIES Oct.

8 Myriad Botanical Gardens This family-friendly entertainment features a new music genre per performance. artscouncilokc.com

OKC BROADWAY PRES-

ENTS: TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD Oct. 10-15 Civic Center Music Hall Enjoy this stage adaptation of a literary classic. okcbroadway.com

CANTERBURY VOICES

PRESENTS: MODERN

MASTERS Oct. 22 Civic Center Music Hall Join Canterbury Voices for an evening showcasing exquisite works of world-renowned, modern composers. okcciviccenter. com

VOCES8 Oct. 24 Armstrong Auditorium, Edmond Hailed as “the Rolls-Royce of British a capella Ensembles,” join VOCES8 for an unforgettable night. armstrongauditorium. org

OKC BALLET PRESENTS:

HAMLET Oct. 27-29 Civic Center Music Hall Join OKC

Ballet dancers for their retelling of William Shakespeare’s Hamlet. okcciviccenter.com

CONCERTS

$UICIDEBOY$ Oct. 1 Paycom

Center Join one of the most popular duos in underground rap music at the Paycom Center. paycomcenter.com

MT. JOY Oct. 6 The Criterion Join Mt. Joy for an unforgettable night of indie folk music. criterionokc.com

HOZIER Oct. 11 The Criterion Join the Irish singer-songwriter on his Unreal Unearth tour. criterionokc.com

ODESZA Oct. 12 Paycom Center Join ODESZA for The Last Goodbye Tour. paycomcenter.com

JASON ALDEAN Oct.

13 Paycom Center Join the country singer at the Paycom Center. paycomcenter.com

THE ALL-AMERICAN REJECTS Oct. 14 Zoo Ampitheatre Revive your emo phase with these legendary alt-rock Oklahomans. thezooampitheatre.com

TRAVIS SCOTT Oct.

21 Paycom Center Join Travis Scott as the UTOPIA World Tour comes to OKC. paycomcenter. com

GIN BLOSSOMS Oct.

22 Riverwind Casino, Norman Join Gin Blossoms for a night of old favorites and new hits. riverwind.com

LUIS MIGUEL Oct.

26 Paycom Center Join “El Sol De México” for a night celebrating his 30+ year career. paycomcenter.com

A R I Z O N A Oct. 31 The Jones Assembly Join this pop-

rock trio live in concert. thejonesassembly.com

ART

TRADITIONAL COWBOY

ARTS ASSOCIATION EXHIBITION AND SALE Oct. 6-Jan.

2 National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Join the Traditional Cowboy Arts Association in their mission to preserve and promote their disciplines and the role of these tradtional crafts in the cowboy culutre of the West through education and exhibition. tcca.nationalcowboymuseum.org

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 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

PAUL REED: WORKS ON PAPER Through Oct.

22 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

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. okla-

homacontemporary.org

CHIHULY THEN AND NOW: THE COLLECTION AT TWENTY Ongoing OKCMOA

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

SPORTS

GRAND NATIONAL & WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

MORGAN HORSE

SHOW Oct. 7-14 State Fair

Park For more than 35 years, The Grand National & World Championship Morgan Horse Show has represented the pinnacle achievement in the Morgan Horse world. okcfairgrounds.com

NITRO CIRCUS LIVE Oct.

21 Paycom Center Watch as some of the world’s most extreme athletes perform tricks on FMX, BMX and skate at Nitro Circus Live. paycomcenter.com

UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA

FOOTBALL Oct. 21 Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium, Norman Join the Sooners for their home game. soonersports.com

COMMUNITY

WANDERLUST POP-UP

SHOPS Oct. 1 Wheeler Ferris Wheel Browse through unique local wares, one-of-a-kind vintage items, hand-crafted art and more. revolve-productions.com

OKLAHOMA REGATTA

FESTIVAL Through Oct.

1 Boathouse District Join the celebration of rowing, kayak-

WHERE & WHEN | ENTERTAINMENT

ing, dragon boating and more. riversportokc.com

FIRST FRIDAY GALLERY

WALK Oct. 6 Paseo Arts

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

BANJO FEST Oct.

12-14 American Banjo

Museum Celebrate three days of traditional American music at Banjo Fest. americanbanjomuseum.

FRIGHT FEST Through Oct.

29 Frontier City Bring the family for a full day of frightful fun at Frontier City. sixflags. com/frontiercity

FALL FESTIVAL AT THE

ORR FAMILY

FARM Through Nov. 11 Orr Family Farm Orr Family Farm excites children and adults alike with their variety of fun fall activities. orrfamilyfarm. com

CHARITABLE EVENTS

CHAMPIONS OF HEALTH

GALA Oct. 3 Oklahoma City

Convention Center Benefitting the Oklahoma Caring Foundation, the Champions of Health Gala celebrates the people and organizations that are making a positive impact on Oklahomans. champisionsofhelath.rog

HUNGRY FOR ACTION Oct.

5 Oklahoma City Convention Center Benefitting Hunger

Free Oklahoma, Hungry for Action is Oklahoma’s antihunger conference. hungerfreeoklahoma.regfox.com

BATTLE OF THE BARTEND-

ERS Oct. 5 Farmers Public Market Benefitting Other Options and their Friends

Food Pantry, Battle of the Bartenders hosts OKC’s best cocktail artists for some friendly competition. otheroptionsokc.com

BINGO FOR BABIES Oct.

13 Oklahoma City Golf and

Coutnry Club Benefitting Infant Crisis Services, this event will feature dinner, drinks, bingo and more. infantcrisis.org/bingo

ARTONTAP Oct. 13 Oklahoma City Museum of Art Benefitting OKMOA, this beer tasting event celebrates 20 years of beers and cheers. okcmoa.com

LANGSTON UNIVERISTY PRESIDENT’S SCHOLARSHIP GALA Oct. 18 Oklahoma City Converntion Center Join Langston University in their largest student scholarship fundraiser of the year. luhomecoming.com

THE GRAND MASQUERADE: MAESTRO’S BALL 2023 Oct. 20 OKC Golf and Country Club Join the OKC Philharmonic for a night of celebration as two inductees enter the Maestro’s Circle. okcphil.org

HAUNT THE ZOO Oct.

27 Oklahoma City Zoo Eat, drink and be scary to benefit the OKC Zoo. okczoo.com

THE STATE PERFORMANCES

UCO DEPARTMENT OF THEATRE ARTS PRESENTS

- AUGUST: OSAGE

COUNTY Through Oct.

1 Mitchell Hall Theatre, Edmond Experience Tulsa

Playwright Tracy Letts’ Pulitzer Prize-winning triumph August: Osage County. uco. edu

PAULS VALLEY OPRY Oct.

7 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 Oct. 7

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

MCKNIGHT CENTER PRESENTS: PRETTY WOMAN –THE MUSICAL Oct. 31-Nov.

1 McKnight Center, Stillwater Based off the movie of the same name, enjoy an evening of music and romance. mcknightcenter. org

CONCERTS

TRACY LAWRENCE Oct.

6 7 Clans First Council Casino, Newkirk Join this seasoned country singer for a night of old hits and new favorites. sevenclans.com

RINGO STARR Oct.

13 Winstar World Casino, Thackerville Join the former Beatle and his All-Starr band for a night of peace, love and music. winstar.com

HOZIER Oct. 13 Choctaw Casino and Resorts, Durant Join the Irish singersongwriter on his Unreal Unearth tour. choctawcasinos.com

MIRANDA LAMBERT Oct.

21 Winstar World Casino, Thackerville Join the Oklahoma native and country superstar for a night Under the Oklahoma Sky. winstar. com

ZAC BROWN BAND Oct.

27 Winstar World Casino, Thackerville Join the multiplatinum, Grammy-Awardwinning band live in concert. winstar.com

SPORTS OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY FOOTBALL Oct. 6, 14, 28 Boone Pickens Stadium, Stillwater Join the Cowboys for their home game this month. okstate.com

TWISTER CITY ROLLER

DERBY BOUT Oct. 15 Star Skate, Midwest City Join Twister City skaters for an evening of dance, athleticism and grace. twistercityrollerderby.com

COMMUNITY

BLACK GOLD

DAYS Through Oct. 1 Black Gold Park, Glenpool Celebrate Gelnpool’s rich oil history with family oriented activities and fun. glenpoolchamber.org

COMANCHE NATION

FAIR Through Oct. 1 Comanche Nation Complex, Lawton Visit the largest event in the Comanche Nation, offering activities like a parade, art show, powwow, free concert and more. comanchenationfair. com

ROCK ISLAND ARTS

FESTIVAL Through Oct.

1 Rock Island Depot, Chickasha Bring the family for fine art displays, live music, entertainment and other various activities. rockislandartsfestival.org

CHICKASAW NATION

ANNUAL MEETING AND FESTIVAL Through Oct. 7 Various locations, Tishomingo Enjoy a week long celebration of Chickasaw culture and heritage. annualmeeting.chickasaw.net

FALL FEST Through Oct.

12 Collinsville Veterans Building Bring the family to enjoy diverse vendors and delicious food trucks. collinsvillechamber.org

COLTON’S RUN Oct.

21 Market Square, Durant Run in remembrance of Colton and support builiding safer communities in Oklahoma. coltonsrun.com

WOOLAROC 8K Oct.

21 1925 Woolaroc Ranch Road, Bartlesville Take to the streets of Bartlesville and run through beautiful Woolaroc. runthestreets.org

P BAR FARMS CORN MAZE AND PUMPKIN PATCH Through Oct.

28 1002 Old 66 Road, Hydro Try to escape from one of Oklahoma’s oldest corn mazes or make some furry

friends at the petting zoo. pbarfarms.com

ANNABELLE’S FUN FARM Through Oct.

29 444606 E. 110 Road, Welch The kids are sure to enjoy the petting zoo, corn mazes and tractor-pulled hayrides at Annabelle’s Fun Farm. annabellesfunfarm.com

HUGO PUMPKIN FESTIVAL Through Oct. 29 Endangered Ark Foundation, Hugo Bring the kids to Hugo Pumpkin Festival, where fall fun and elephant meet-andgreets combine for an event you won’t soon forget. hugopumpkinfestival. com

STILLWATER PUMPKIN

PATCH Through Oct. 31 524

N. Stallard With varying events over the season, come to Stillwater Pumpkin Patch to pick a pumpkin and be entertained. travelok.com

CHESTER’S PUMPKIN

PATCH Through Oct.

31 Chester’s Party Barn & Farm, Piedmont Chester’s offers 25 acres of fall family fun and classic pumpkin patch activities. chesterspartybarn. fun

PUMPKIN FESTIVAL AT SHEPHERD’S CROSS Through Nov.

4 Shepherd’s Cross, Claremore Celebrate fall with pumpkins, hayrides and harvest educational activities – perfect for the whole family. shepherdscross.com

JAHN’S PUMPKIN

HILL Through Nov. 5 46154

CS 2710, Cyril Jahn’s Pumpkin Hill is a working farm offering fun fall activities throughout the season. jahnspumpkinhill. com

PARKHURST PUMPKIN

PATCH Through Nov. 5 720 Henney Road, Arcadia Featuring a petting zoo and pony rides, the Parkhurst Pumpkin Patch is the perfect place to bring the family for a day of fall fun and pumpkin picking. parkhurstranch.com

PERFORMANCE TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD

REIMAGINED CLASSICS AND NEW FAVORITES TAKE THE STAGE

With October comes show-stopping performances throughout the state.

In Tulsa, start the month with Aladdin presented by Celebrity Attractions on Oct. 1 at the Tulsa PAC. Masquerade, presented by Tulsa Symphony, will take to the PAC stage on Oct. 7. On Oct. 13-14, head to Studio K and join the Tulsa Ballet as it presents the classic fairytale Jack and the Beanstalk. At River Spirit Casino and Resort, enjoy the legendary illusionist duo Penn & Teller on Oct. 20. If comedy is more your thing, join Nate Bargatze on Oct. 20 at the BOK Center.

Presented by OKC Philharmonic, Gothic Midnight presents an evening of stunning, spooky music on Oct. 7 at OKC’s Civic Center Music Hall. The Myriad Botanical Gardens hosts the recurring Sunday Twilight Concert Series on Oct. 8. Presented by OKC Broadway, To Kill a Mockingbird runs from Oct. 10-15. Lastly, be sure to check out Hamlet, presented by OKC Ballet, at the Civic Center from Oct. 27-29.

The Pauls Valley Opry takes the stage at Pauls Valley High School on Oct 7. On the same day, the Cement Opry is happening at 410 N. Main in Cement. At Edmond’s Armstrong Auditorium, VOCES8 offers highclass a cappella on Oct. 24. And on Oct. 31-Nov. 1, patrons can enjoy Pretty Woman: e Musical at Stillwater’s McKnight Center.

SPORTS

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

Sports abound this month. FC Tulsa is taking to ONEOK eld for a soccer match on Oct. 7. At the University of Tulsa, watch some of the top tennis athletes compete at the ITA Men’s All-American Championships through Oct. 8. At the BOK Center, WWE Smackdown takes to the ring live on Oct. 13. On Oct. 14, Nitro Circus Live also revs into the BOK Center. e TU Golden Hurricane football team hits Skelly Field at H.A. Chapman Stadium on Oct. 19. If you’re more into all things equine, the U.S. National Arabian and Half-Arabian Championship Horse Show gallop into town from Oct. 19-28.

At State Fair Park in Oklahoma City, the Grand National and World Championship Morgan Horse Show visits town Oct. 7-14. On Oct. 21, Nitro Circus

Live skates their way to the Paycom Center. The University of Oklahoma Sooners football team plays at the Palace on the Prairie– Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium – on Oct. 21.

Around the state, the Oklahoma State Cowboys football team plays on its home turf, Boone Pickens Stadium in Stillwater, on Oct. 6, 14 and 28. At Star Skate in Midwest City, join Twister City Roller Derby for its bout on Oct. 15.

Photo courtesy OSU Athletics

Photo courtesy OKC Broadway

KILLERS, COOKS AND CANNES

October cinema has a little something for everyone.

October is here! Don’t worry; we’ve got one spooky film this month as well as some other great looking heavy hitters.

Starting strong, we have the highly anticipated Killers of the Flower Moon. The next massive film from Martin Scorsese (buckle up – it’s over three hours long!) is finally here, and boy does it look to deliver. Based on the book of the same name, the story concerns murders in the Oklahoma-based Osage Nation during the 1920s, on land where heavily desired oil was recently discovered. With an all-star cast including Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert De Niro, Lily Gladstone (Certain Women) and Jesse Plemons (Breaking Bad), the movie looks to be Scorsese’s next masterpiece, with early reviews indicating a colossal triumph. It hits select theaters on Oct. 6 with a general release on Oct. 20.

For your thriller fix, check out Anatomy of a Fall. The story follows Sandra, a German writer, who is arrested in France for allegedly murdering her husband. The circumstances are murky and the only witness to the crime

is the couple’s blind son, so Sandra must work to clear her name. Directed by Justine Triet, who won the Palme d’Or (the highest prize) at Cannes for the film, the movie stands to be a wonderful foreign film to add to your mustsee list when it hits select theaters on Oct. 13.

For a spooky, jump scare-filled time, hold hands with your partner for Five Nights at Freddy’s. Based on the popular video game franchise of the same name, the plot follows Mike Schmidt (Josh Hutcherson, e Hunger Games) as the newly minted night shift security guard at Freddy Fazbear’s Pizza, a once thriving but now massively declining family entertainment center akin to Chuck E. Cheese. (Side note: Chuck’s government name is Charles Entertainment Cheese – don’t ever forget this.) The trailer has lots of nods to the source material and seems to be doing a decent job of capturing what the games are about. Prepare to never want to be around animatronic animals ever again when this releases in theaters on Oct. 27.

For a much lighter comedy-drama, make sure to see e Holdovers. Starring Paul Gia-

matti as Paul Hunham, a disliked teacher at Barton Academy, the story takes place during Christmas break. While most students go home, Hunham is responsible for those who have nowhere to go, including one rebellious student named Angus. Directed by Alexander Payne (Sideways), the film tells a very personal, slow burn story about a teacher and student coming to terms with their differences. Giamatti will likely turn out an Oscarworthy performance. The movie has a limited release Oct. 27 and a wide release Nov. 10.

Lastly, please watch the television series

e Bear as soon as you can. Starring Jeremy Allen White (Shameless) as Carmen Berzatto, the series focuses on him and his kitchen crew at his late brother’s Italian sandwich shop. You’ll see their daily struggles to keep things running and their own personal issues. The show is full of stressful moments – both in and out of the kitchen – and the buzz of seeing them succeed and fail is as thrilling as it is heartbreaking. Both seasons are streaming now on Hulu.

DREW JOSEPH ALLEN

Photo courtesy Patti Perret/Universal Pictures

Jeremiah Matthew Davis

Jeremiah Matthew Davis, the inaugural director at OKC-based Oklahoma Contemporary, serves in the primary leadership role for the institution and is helping to grow it into a new, central location downtown. With seven years under his belt at the art center, Davis has overseen a variety of curatorial programming while working to strengthen youth and adult education programs.

Originally from Oklahoma, Davis completed his undergraduate studies in theater and social science at Bennington College in Vermont, and got his graduate degree of dramaturgy from Columbia University in New York. Prior to joining the Oklahoma Contemporary team, Davis focused on immersive theatrical production and worked with highly accomplished artists throughout the country. In addition, Davis’ career has been steadily grounded in education, with teaching roles at New York University, Barnard College and Columbia University. He continues to serve as a tenured faculty member at the Todoroff Conservatory in New York. We caught up with Davis and picked his brain about ...

... what brought him back to Oklahoma.

Oklahoma Contemporary. After leaving for college, I never imagined my career path would lead back to Oklahoma. Upon learning more about the vision for the arts center’s future from our founder, Christian Keesee, I was inspired to return and help to establish a new cultural organization that could propel the state forward and help retain creative talent here.

... how his background helps his career.

Professional theater provides an excellent training ground for any number of elds. So many seemingly disparate disciplines are contained within a single production. Immersive performance adds additional complexity to audience logistics and the dynamics of storytelling. e experiences I gained through collaborating with artists, technicians and businesspeople across disciplines and industries helped inform my approach to

collaboration, institution building and the importance of transdisciplinarity.

... his goals as inaugural director.

In the near term, my goals are to continue to build awareness in our community of the incredible cultural resource available to them in their backyard. In any given month, we have multiple exhibitions on view, music, theater or dance performances, dozens of classes and workshops for adults, and family-friendly programs and events. And admission is always free. Long term, through our commitment to collaboration, community partnerships, radical hospitality and artistic excellence, we need to become the indispensable center for art and culture that Oklahomans of all backgrounds and visitors to OKC could not imagine living without.

... the importance of education in this role.

One of the great privileges of this job is the abundance of learning opportunities I enjoy every day. I consider myself a lifetime student, and Oklahoma Contemporary has been an incredible professor. As a teacher, I begin with the question. I hope to continue posing exciting questions for our sta , trustees, stakeholders and our audiences to consider and explore. By asking the right questions, we can learn anything.

... what guests can look forward to.

We just opened our latest project in Campbell Art Park, Eva Schlegel: Multiple Voices, an architectonic installation inspired by our building and the Oklahoma skies, which represents the European artist’s

rst public artwork in North America. is month, our theater company in residence, OKC Rep, kicks o its season with the wild new play e Antelope Party. And this coming February, we open Home1947: Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, an immersive exhibition exploring the experiences of the partition of the Indian subcontinent into the independent nation-states of India and Pakistan. Obaid-Chinoy is an Academy Award winning lmmaker and is slated to direct the next major Star Wars picture, so this exhibition is not to be missed!

... what he wants to emphasize about Oklahoma Contemporary.

If you haven’t visited Oklahoma Contemporary yet, this is your arts center – and admission is always free. Drop by to connect with the community, experience art and enjoy some delicious pastries and scratch cuisine at our Café Contemporary. Everyone is welcome here.

... his favorite activities outside of work.

I live near the Paseo, so much of my time is spent enjoying the walkability of Uptown, the Asian District and the Paseo. With so many galleries, shops, cafés, restaurants, venues and parks, the area is one of the most dynamic parts of the city. I’m also a fan of downtown, Automobile Alley, Deep Deuce, the Plaza District, EastPoint on NE 23rd St. and the great parks and lakes in the metro. I visit my family in Tulsa and Osage County whenever I can, and I travel the country and the world with my wife as much as time and budget allow.

Photo courtesy Oklahoma Contemporary