Oklahoma Magazine December 2023

DECEMBER 2023

SPECIAL REPORT:

2023 GREAT COMPANIES

TO WORK FOR

166 businesses 24 industries

A guide to the

holiday season

Museum Gift Shop Guide

Finding hidden gems

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

DECEMBER 2023

O K L A H O M A M AG A Z I N E V O L . M M X X I I I , N O . 1 2

7

State Festive fun for the whole family can be found across the state.

10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24

29 42 Great Companies to Work For

What makes a company truly great? Well, it depends on who you ask. Some would say legacy and history, others benefits and vacation time. Those with philanthropic leanings may be looking for volunteer opportunities or a focus on ethics, while social butterflies want a strong company culture.

Bottom line: businesses have to stand out and take care of their employees to attract top talent. The enterprises listed in Oklahoma Magazine’s 2023 Great Companies to Work For feature do just that and more.

Destinations Alaska’s capital – also the second largest U.S. city by area – offers outdoor adventures and ample shopping.

32 34 36 38 40

Health Outside the Metro FYI Scene Guide

72

76 79 80

‘Tis the season to bundle up, grab some hot chocolate (and some pals!) and venture to one of hundreds of festive events around Oklahoma. We provide a comprehensive guide to holiday happenings, from performances to light displays, ice rinks, community gatherings and pop-up markets. We hope it makes the season merrier and brighter for all!

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OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2023

Life and Style

29

73 74 75

68 A December to Remember

Philanthropy Infrastructure People Arts Updates History Insider Holidays

Taste Atop the new Brut

Hotel, Soma offers tropical American fare with beautiful views.

Local Flavors Chef Chat Tasty Tidbits

Where and When

Holiday events, concerts, sports and more await in December.

Film and Cinema Closing Thoughts

ON THE COVER: JUST IN TIME FOR THE SEASON, WE OFFER A COMPREHENSIVE HOLIDAY GUIDE. FROM LIGHT DISPLAYS TO CONCERTS, ICE SKATING AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN, YOU’LL FIND SOMETHING FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY.

our team members Make the Difference

Proud

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LET TER FROM THE EDITOR

Let me admit something to you: in my earlier years, I was a bit of a curmudgeon when it came to the holidays. It seems a bit backwards, right? But teenage Mary was straight-up Ebenezer Scrooge.

Luckily, at the ripe age of 30, I’ve come to embrace my inner Christmas elf ... and I’ve created a holiday guide to prove it (page 68). Enjoy a variety of must-visit events around Oklahoma, from performances to light displays, ice rinks and holiday markets.

December also welcomes one of the most popular features of the year: Great Companies to Work For (page 42). As its name implies, this feature shines a spotlight on Oklahoma-based businesses who work to ensure their employees are taken care of. From excellent benefit packages to healthy work environments, these companies are a step above the rest. Stick around for additional GCTWF content including in-depth profiles with four impressive Oklahoma CEOs. Other goodies this month include a deep dive into Oklahoma’s holiday traditions (page 7); a look at Tulsa’s newest rooftop restaurant (page 72); and an informative guide to museum gift shops around the state (page 24).

A very happy holidays from your local Scrooge-turned-Buddy-theElf, Mary Willa Allen Managing Editor

OKLAHOMA

PRESIDENT AND EDITORIAL DIRECTOR DANIEL SCHUMAN

PUBLISHER AND FOUNDER VIDA K . SCHUMAN

MANAGING EDITOR

MARY WILLA ALLEN

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR JOHN WOOLEY

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CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

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

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THE STATE

ALL THINGS OKLAHOMA

The Christmas Capital of the Country

Brought to life by dedicated organizers, festive events offer fun for the whole family.

Guthrie’s Territorial Christmas celebrates the city’s Victorian-era architecture.

M

any would panic at the thought of planning for the holidays in the spring or early summer … but for the organizers behind some of Oklahoma’s most beloved Christmas traditions, that idea is a reality.

Annual events like Guthrie’s Territorial Christmas, OKC’s Downtown in December and Tulsa’s Winterfest attract thousands of visitors annually from far and wide. For 2023, organizers offer a variety of events to create and spread holiday cheer.

Guthrie’s Territorial Christmas

Over 35 years ago, Guthrie’s merchants wanted to find a way to boost local business during the holiday season, all while paying homage to the city’s unique history and architecture. Settled in 1889, Guthrie was Oklahoma’s original state capital and is home to many late-Victorian era buildings.

“We want anyone who visits [Guthrie’s Territorial Christmas] to see what Guthrie was like in the late 1800s and early 1900s and be transported back in time,” says Shawnda Rooney, the economic development director for the City of Guthrie and the secretary for Guthrie’s Territorial Christmas Foundation.

Territorial Christmas has since evolved from a small-scale event to include a line-up of festivities beginning in November. To pull it off, the foundation and its board plan year-round.

“We’re basically like Santa’s Elves – we never really take a break from Christmas,” says Rooney.

Territorial Christmas kicked off the holiday season with a Lighted Christmas Parade and Territorial Governor Race.

On Dec. 2, the Guthrie Territorial Christmas Foundation puts on its Distinctive Home Tour. Ticketholders can get an exclusive look inside of Guthrie’s historic

Photo courtesy Guthrie’s Territorial Christmas

homes and buildings, all decorated for the holiday season.

On Dec. 2 and Dec. 9, visitors can don their best 19th-century-inspired attire for Guthrie’s Victorian Night Walks. Each evening, the city streets are buzz with musical performances, a live nativity scene, food trucks, shopping and light shows. In the past, the Victorian Night Walks have drawn up to 5,000 people – most of whom are dressed in costume.

“I love seeing the streets of downtown filled,” says Rooney. “We really want visitors to know that Guthrie is the Christmas capital of Oklahoma.”

Photo courtesy Guthrie’s Territorial Christmas

DECEMBER 2023 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

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T H E S TAT E | S TA R T I N G O F F To learn more about the Victorianinspired festivities, go to guthriesterritorialchristmas.com.

Downtown in December

Presented by Devon Energy and organized by the Downtown Oklahoma City Partnership (DOKC), Downtown in December returns to the metro for its 22nd year in 2023. A plethora of activities and attractions take place throughout the month and into the new year, including light displays, holiday pop-up shops, ice skating and photo-ops with Santa.

this month, visitors can participate in the 5K Saint Santa’s Run, peruse Christmas gifts under a stunning light display during Lights on Broadway, and enjoy live performances of Lyric’s A Christmas Carol and the Oklahoma City Ballet’s rendition of The Nutcracker.

To facilitate greater turnout, the Oklahoma City Streetcar offers free fare rides into downtown on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

“The City of Oklahoma City and Embark have been great partners to provide transportation and help with traffic bottlenecks,” says Nakayama, who relocated to Oklahoma from Hawaii earlier this year.

She hopes that the event will help advance the quality of life and sense of for all who attend the event.

“I’ve heard and read so much about this signature event,” she says. “My family and I are really excited to take it all in and be a part of it.”

To stay up to date, Nakayama recommends checking out FAQs and a calendar of activities at downtownindecember. com.

Tulsa Winterfest

A popular offering at Downtown in December is the Santa Paws event – a photo op with Santa and your furry friends.

Photo courtesy Downtown Oklahoma City Partnership

“So many people have told us over the years that they recall seeing old photos of Main Street decked out in holiday décor and busy with shoppers,” says Jennifer Nakayama, president and CEO at DOKC. “[Downtown in December] began as a way to bring the magic of the holidays to Downtown Oklahoma City.”

As you'd expect, planning for the event begins months in advance.

“Springtime becomes the holidays for us,” says Nakayama. “It’s not just about the Downtown OKC Partnership or our focused initiatives; it’s about bringing our community together and promoting all the wonderful holiday programming for our businesses, theaters, restaurants and retailers.”

Downtown in December began its extravaganza with a Tree Lighting Festival in November. On select dates throughout

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OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2023

In 2008, downtown Tulsa opened the BOK Center, marking a turning point for tourism and nightlife throughout the city.

Critical to the venue’s success is drawing people downtown. To sustain activity during the holiday season, the BOK Center wanted to create a unique experience: an outdoor ice skating rink.

“We wanted to involve the community, partner with sponsors and connect with all the different groups in Tulsa by bringing a fun holiday festival for all ages to enjoy: skating beneath the skyline and creating a sense of camaraderie,” says

Victoria Pittman, BOK Center’s special events manager.

Now going into its 16th year, Tulsa Winterfest runs through Jan. 2, offering a variety of seasonally inspired activities, from canned food and clothing drives to special giveaways, a holiday market and train rides. Pittman expects a turnout of around 200,000 people, and says scaling and creating new activities, along with building the ice rink, takes months of planning.

“We start getting the permits ready and planning the activities in July,” she says.

“October is when we start closing down the street to build the rink.”

To add to the ambiance, the BOK Center made the decision to create a rink out of real ice instead of synthetic materials – a time-intensive but worthwhile effort, notes Pittman.

Kiddos wanting to ask Saint Nick for a gift can come out for free photos on Sundays. The BOK Center also offers Breakfast with Santa at the Cox Convention Center on Dec. 16.

“There’s a full breakfast buffet and you get to enjoy an hour and half with Santa,” says Pittman. Tickets are required.

Winterfest offers discounted skate tickets to event-goers who bring canned goods on Mondays and gently used clothing on Wednesdays. All donations benefit Iron Gate and the Eastern Food Bank of Oklahoma. Check out a full list of activities and attractions at tulsawinterfest. com.

“Winterfest has definitely continued to grow each year,” says Pittman. “It’s always great to see all the kids’ smiling faces and everyone enjoying the hard work that went into the event.”

FAITH HARL

Tulsa Winterfest was created to draw more visitors downtown. Offerings include an outdoor ice rink, visits with Santa and a holiday market. Photo courtesy Winterfest

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T H E S TAT E | P H I L A N T H R O P Y

The Season of Giving (Back)

Philanthropic endeavors are around every corner during the holidays.

T

he holiday season is in full swing. For many of us, it’s a time to get together with friends and family to celebrate a good year. For some, however, it’s just another very cold month without the proper amenities. There are plenty of organizations here in Oklahoma that work hard to help those in need during the holidays and year-round, and most of them are looking for volunteers as often as they can get them.

“Meals on Wheels of Norman is a great place to volunteer during the holiday season,” says Summer McGuire, the organization’s associate director of fundraising and donor development.

“Volunteers can help deliver shelf-stable holiday meals to clients in the Norman community.”

Big Brothers Big Sisters – which has Oklahoma locations in Bartlesville, Norman, OKC, Shawnee, Stillwater and Tulsa – also needs help this time of year.

“We have approximately 350 children enrolled in our program waiting to be matched with their Big Brother or Big Sister,” says Cat Miller, the organization’s director of marketing and communica-

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OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2023

tions. “The most important factor for a child to develop resiliency is having at least one stable and committed relationship with a supportive adult. Mentorship is the best gift you can give a child this holiday season. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Oklahoma needs volunteer mentors to help ignite the potential in vulnerable Oklahoma youth.”

Besides your time, places like these frequently need donations. Money is, of course, appreciated, but there are often other types of donations people can provide.

For example, OU Health needs “patient experience items and clothing,” says Jonie Welle, director of volunteer services at the Oklahoma Children’s Hospital.

Things like crossword puzzles, coloring books, colored pencils, sweatpants, toothbrushes, shampoo, soap and combs are all great items to donate.

“Books have to be new,” she says. “Due to infection control, we cannot use books that have been circulated.”

Meanwhile, Meals on Wheels can always use blankets and holiday cards.

“Our clients also love handmade pictures from kids,” says McGuire.

Spreading cheer during the winter months is a top priority for these organizations. For some, the joy of the holidays is often unseen due to financial, family, or other circumstances out of their control.

“Call Meals on Wheels of Norman to volunteer,” says McGuire. “It’s easy and a fun way to give back to our often forgotten portion of the community.”

Contact Deana Nelson at 405-3217272 for opportunities.

The younger and less fortunate population in Oklahoma always needs a helping hand. To apply as a BBBSOK volunteer, go to bigoklahoma.org.

As for the Children’s Hospital, having blankets for everyone right before Christmas is always the goal, which is why the blanket drive is a major priority.

“This has made such an impact on our patients in the past; our volunteer department wants to keep this an annual event,” says Welle. “We have many patients from the vulnerable population, and a warm blanket to take home may be the only Christmas cheer they have.”

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Whimsical Getaways

The Classen Inn, located in OKC, offers the Superette with snacks and drinks. Photo courtesy the Classen Inn

From themed hotels to colorful inns, you’ll find fun places to relax in Oklahoma.

F

or those ready to unwind, or are just passing through but hankering for something outside the regular lodging experience, Oklahoma has unique opportunities available for one-night, weekend, or vacation stays in the form of classic motels and inns.

Desert Hills Motel

Tulsa Tulsa’s Desert Hills Motel is still kickin’ it old school with its slice of Route 66 life.

Using a unique architectural design, the motel was cobbled at an angle to allow for more spacious rooms on a small piece of land. Desert Hills has been welcoming guests on the Mother Road since 1953, and the inn’s retro, neon cactus sign beckons to those who yearn for a retro experience ... all with fully remodeled units.

This mom-and-pop motor court offers budget prices, and special rates for guests who stay more than one night.

Free HBO is available, and some of the rooms have kitchenettes.

“Our classic neon sign makes our business visually unique,” says owner Jack Patel. “We offer travelers classic, comfortable rooms with parking in front of the door, but without sacrificing 12

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2023

today’s comforts. We also have wall-towall carpeted rooms and classic, tiled bathrooms with a tub and shower combination. Rooms are also equipped with refrigerators, televisions and Wi-Fi. And we have a guest laundry room on site.”

Classen Inn

OKC For a colorful array of a stay, pop on over to Oklahoma City’s Classen Inn, which showcases itself with positive slogans like “Stay lively,” and “Where elevated design meets a good time.”

The Classen Inn – which was featured on the Paramount+ show Tulsa King – has its very own convenience store, called the Superette, with hyper-funky charm in every nook and cranny. The inn’s guests, or passersby, may purchase goodies including beer, wine and snacks.

There’s nothing dull about the rooms, which are retro, boho, eclectic and entertaining all rolled into one. Kid and bike friendly, with complimentary Wi-Fi and dogs allowed on the patio, the inn has a shared lounge space, free private parking and a terrace. Some rooms even have private balconies.

A Themed Escape

Tulsa Then there’s a truly different take on an overnight stay, billed as the “Unique Themed Tulsa Escape,” which is a one-ofa-kind, free-standing, 1,270-square-foot vacation rental that takes eclectic, retro and hyper-pastel to new heights. Even the exterior is painted pastel pink, and guests enter through a turquoise front door underneath a red and white striped awning.

Overlooking Route 66 near Tulsa’s Utica Square Shopping Center, the location has two bedrooms, and sleeps six (if you count the double sofa sleeper in the living room), plus room for three cars in the driveway and street parking.

With 1.5 baths, this stylish getaway offers a fully modern, sleek and well equipped kitchen, and an ample dining table. Included are multiple living areas, plus a sunroom.

Plus, there’s keyless entry, smart TVs, free Wi-Fi, and a washer and dryer. You’ll find this one on the VRBO website – just search for “Unique Themed Tulsa Escape.”

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T H E S TAT E | P E O P L E

One Outfit at a Time

Leading OKC’s Dress for Success, Alisa Trang Green helps women reach their potentials.

D

Trang Green participated in pageants before her career at Dress for Success; she says her time spent on the circuit helped her to thrive in other professional environments. Photo by Tony Li

ress for Success is more than just a nonprofit; it’s a catalyst for change, a support system and a symbol of hope for women striving to overcome adversity and achieve their dreams.

At the heart of the organization’s Oklahoma affiliate is Alisa Trang Green, who empowers women to write their own success stories, one outfit at a time.

“I always had a passion and calling for helping women,” she says. “I know that we were created for something beautiful, and our contribution goes further than just bearing children. I wanted to be behind an organization that believes that. Dress for Success Oklahoma City has been around for eight years, and we have seen women flourish into entrepreneurs and college graduates and strong mothers. I think only when women see that they are worthy of love and valued members of the community do we all thrive.”

Green’s background informs and drives her passion for helping others. She was born in a refugee camp in Malaysia, and her parents immigrated to the U.S. when she was only ten months old.

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OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2023

“Growing up in Oklahoma City was a beautiful treasure for me,” she says.

“We had a lot of hard trials, but we were on the receiving end of a lot of good.

Churches, charities and people were so kind to us as refugees, and now that I have the resources to do so, I want to give back to the same community that welcomed us.”

Trang, who was the former Miss Asian UCO and 4th runner-up in national Miss Vietnam USA, believes her pageantry experience has played a significant role in how she operates the organization and carries herself daily. She says participating in pageants is how she learned to be poised, dress appropriately, speak confidently and value the platforms she stood for.

At the heart of Dress for Success is its commitment to helping women break the cycle of poverty and achieve their career aspirations. The organization provides professional attire to women in need, ensuring they look and feel their bests during job interviews and as they enter the workforce. The clothing, Dress for Success believes, boosts their self-confidence and sends a powerful

message to potential employers.

However, the nonprofit goes beyond just providing clothing. The organization offers a range of programs and services, including scholarships, mentorship opportunities and a professional women’s group where clients learn about financial literacy, healthy relationships and how to ask for a raise or job promotion. These resources equip women with the skills and knowledge they need to excel personally and professionally.

Green says the organization recognizes that success is not a one-time event, but a journey. Therefore, they provide ongoing support to women as they navigate their careers and personal lives.

This commitment to long-term empowerment has helped countless women overcome barriers and achieve goals.

“We are so proud to be a part of the growth of our clients and see quality women go out in the community and pass on the torch to another,” she says.

“We want women to be financially free, but the end goal is to have our clients thrive in all aspects of their life.”

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T H E S TAT E | A R T S John Erling started the Voices of Oklahoma project after interviewing notable Oklahoma philanthropists Walt Helmerich and Henry Zarrow.

Photos courtesy John Erling

Uplifting Voices

Since 2009, John Erling has recorded and preserved oral histories with his project, Voices of Oklahoma.

I

f you grew up in Tulsa and are old enough to have listened to the radio on your commute, you probably remember John Erling, a local radio personality on KRMG. Among his many contributions to the city’s culture and community over the years, perhaps his most enduring legacy is Voices of Oklahoma, an oral history of the state curated in partnership with the Oklahoma Historical Society.

Voices of Oklahoma got its start in 2009, when Erling decided to record some of the fascinating stories he heard during his frequent lunches with Oklahoma philanthropist Walt Helmerich.

After that, Erling conducted an interview with another prolific Oklahoman, Henry Zarrow. With some later donations from the Zarrow and Helmerich foundations, Erling was able to create the Voices of Oklahoma website.

In a recent podcast on the 14th anniversary of the project’s founding, Erling discussed the origins of the archive.

“Let me just say: I am not a historian.

I never majored in history. History was not interesting to me way back in my younger days,” he says. “And so, I was not trained for what I am doing in any fashion. But I always enjoyed interviewing people. This website is unique in that it’s dedicated to oral history. There are many

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OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2023

institutions that do oral history – Oklahoma State University, OU and others will record, but it’s probably mainly for research and it’s not as readily available to the general public.”

That’s what makes Voices of Oklahoma such a treasure. It’s robust enough that any historian could scan the archives of over 200 stories to conduct research, but it’s arranged in a simple, accessible way so that anyone who is interested in the state’s rich history can find what they’re looking for quickly and easily.

Voices of Oklahoma is also available as a podcast on the typical platforms like Spotify and Apple Music. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a notable Oklahoman who wasn’t represented in some fashion on the site – ranging from former U.S. Poet Laureate and artist Joy Harjo to entrepreneur and philanthropist Bill Lobeck and business magnate T. Boone Pickens. The most recent interview as of this writing was with American minister Carlton Pearson.

On the podcast from April of 2023, John Erling discussed other innovations and collaborations that have helped Voices of Oklahoma reach a wider audience.

“We’ve developed a learning center on the website where you dive deeper into Oklahoma history,” he says. “And

we have certain topics – Holocaust survivors, philanthropy, lessons from entrepreneurs and business leaders, artists of Oklahoma, sit-ins during the Civil Rights Movement – and we write deeper about that than maybe came out in the interview, and then the stories that we’ve interviewed, those storytellers are laced into that in the learning center. A far more sophisticated presentation than I ever thought was going to be possible when I started this in 2009…. [and] we’ve entered into a partnership with the Oklahoma History Society. They’ve been very helpful by suggesting interviews ... and promoting our interviews to their enormous following.”

You can find Voices of Oklahoma on its website: voicesofoklahoma.com, or via its podcasts on multiple streaming platforms. You can learn more about the Oklahoma Historical Society and donate to their mission at okhistory.org.

JEFF THOMPSON

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T H E S TAT E | U P D AT E S

Creating Connections

Alongside producing safer communities, walkability efforts allow residents to form bonds and learn about their cities.

C

ities in Oklahoma are making progress toward creating pedestrian-friendly spaces that bring people together, help boost health and improve both the economy and the environment.

Planning officials in Oklahoma City and Tulsa say work is under way in their cities to enhance walkability features. That includes building sidewalks and adding crosswalks, lighting and landscaping to make areas safer and more inviting for those who prefer to, or need to, walk.

Walkability refers to the ability to walk to services and amenities – such as dining, shopping, education and outdoor recreation – within a reasonable distance.

A walkable area features elements such as a center or public space where people want to gather, mixed uses of businesses, sidewalks and streets designed with pedestrians in mind, and parks, green spaces and trees.

A walkable community also offers physical, environmental and economic benefits, says Justin Henry, a transportation program planner with the City of Oklahoma City.

For example, people are getting exercise as they’re walking, there’s less vehicle pollution involved and there are economic benefits to businesses with foot traffic.

Henry cites the Plaza and Paseo Arts

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OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2023

Walkability – specifically creating and improving sidewalks – is a major priority in Tulsa. Photo courtesy the City of Tulsa

districts in Oklahoma City as examples of commercial areas that are inviting to pedestrians.

Susan Miller, director of the Tulsa Planning Office, says walkability creates opportunities for people to learn more about one another and their neighborhoods.

“It really just opens up all of this connection in your community,” says Miller.

Henry and Miller say Oklahoma City and Tulsa alike have made great strides with bike paths and trails, but that building more sidewalks remains a goal.

Henry mentions that Oklahoma City has built 175 miles of sidewalks since 2018 but “we still have a lot of neighborhoods we need to get more sidewalks into.”

Another upcoming effort, he says, will be a citywide plan to look at ways to make streets safer, such as with lighting improvements and crosswalks.

“Safety is always the first key element to improving walkability,” he says.

Miller says that in Tulsa, voters recently approved the Improve Our Tulsa capital improvements package that includes funding for sidewalks and street improvements. Looking ahead, Miller says her hope is that as shopping corridors develop and redevelop, they are done so with pedestrian-friendly elements in mind.

For example, the city is launching an effort to revitalize the 71st Street shop-

ping corridor to include such features as new sidewalks, lighting and landscaping, according to the planning office’s project description.

Miller mentions that another area she’s excited about is the Arkansas River corridor. The city has River Design Overlay regulations that govern design and use for properties located in the district. One of the objectives is to establish the area as an interconnected, pedestrian-oriented cultural and recreational destination.

“We want this really nice, beautiful, connected, active riverfront,” she says.

Oklahoma City and Tulsa aren’t the only communities in the state creating more walkable areas.

“We’re seeing a lot of smaller towns and the smaller cities really invest in their downtowns again,” Henry says, citing Durant and Ardmore.

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T H E S TAT E | H I S T O R Y

Funky Origins Abound

From Cookietown to Frogville, Oklahoma keeps it wacky with territory, town and city names.

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here are only so many town and city names a state can go through before having to resort to some, well, weirder choices.

There are some truly bizarre territory, town and city names in Oklahoma, some of which seem completely made up.

However, many have interesting origins, which we explore below.

Slaughterville

Located in the Oklahoma City area of Cleveland County, Slaughterville was named after James Slaughter and a local grocery store he owned. In 2004, PETA petitioned the town to rename itself to Veggieville, offering a donation of $20,000 worth of veggie burgers. The town council voted it down.

Cookietown

A small, unincorporated area in Cotton County, Cookietown comes from a mercantile that was owned by Marvin Cornelius around 1928. Apparently he was known for giving out cookies to children, creating his very own Cookietown!

Slapout

An unincorporated hamlet in Beaver County, this town was originally called Nye, after the U.S. Senator Gerald Nye. The man who owned the plot of land, 20

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2023

Slapout is just one of a variety of odd territory and town names around Oklahoma. Photo courtesy the Oklahoma Historical Society

Tom Lemmons, opened a store during the Great Depression to try and kickstart the small town’s economy. According to legend, patrons of the store were often told by Lemmon’s sister that they were “slap out” of whatever it is the customer wanted. Although Tom insists the phrase was never used, the name stuck. After a tornado took out the sign for Nye, Lemmons gave in and started calling it Slapout. The total population today is four.

Frogville

Another unincorporated community in Choctaw County, Frogville comes from a fairly guessable origin: the abundance of frogs in the area. Reportedly, at one point, were massive in size and often ate young ducklings.

Bushyhead

A census-designated area in Rogers County, Bushyhead gains its name from Dennis Bushyhead, who served as the Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation from 1879-1887. The current population is 1,292.

Bowlegs

A town in Seminole County, this one is named after Holata Micco, called Chief Billy Bowlegs by white townsfolk during the Second and Third Seminole Wars.

He was a prominent and crucial leader during those divisive times. Billy’s Creek, located in Fort Myers, Florida, is also named after him.

IXL

A historical freedmen’s town located in Okfuskee County, IXL’s origins are contested. One version says it means Indian Exchange Land, a reference to the town being on Muscogee land. Another says that the letters were taken from the names of three men, although those names are not known. Lastly, it could be seen as an onomatopoeic exclamation, akin to “I excel.” None of these are known to be fully true, but at least they tell an interesting tale.

Pumpkin Center

A truly odd case, there are actually four unincorporated communities with this moniker. Located in Comanche, Okmulgee, Muskogee and Cherokee counties, Pumpkin Center’s origin is generally unknown, although theories exist. The most popular involves Cal Stewart, a spoken word recording artist in the late 1890s. He often featured a character named Uncle Josh Weathersby who hailed from the fictional town of – you guessed it – Pumpkin Center.

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T H E S TAT E | I N S I D E R

Home and Happy

Musician, singer and occasional conductor Cathy Venable is heavily involved in Tulsa’s many musical offerings.

T

ulsa’s Cathy Venable spent five years on the road as principal keyboard player and associate conductor for the national touring companies of three major musicals: The Sound of Music, The Phantom of the Opera, and Frozen. She, of course, had no way of knowing that the latter title would turn out to be eerily prophetic, with the COVID-19 pandemic literally freezing the tour for everyone involved.

“The pandemic shut us down in March of 2020,” she recalls. “We were in Portland, Oregon, and the props, the set, all the technical stuff was just left in the theater there, where it sat for several months. We left a lot of our belongings, too, because on a bus you can travel with a trunk that has all the big heavy things and the seasonal things you don’t want to carry in your luggage. Of course, everybody was afraid of COVID at the time and didn’t even want to go back inside the theater.

“So we all went home. And eventually, when things finally started clearing a little bit, they said, ‘Maybe it’s safe to go back in the theater now.’ So they started cleaning everything up and sent us our personal items.”

Hers were shipped to her hometown, where she’d been living since the suspension of the Frozen tour. Then, once the pandemic eased, Venable made plans to leave again for New York, which had been her base for the previous 17 years.

“I was going to go back and say, ‘Okay.

I’m ready to be an official regular pianist on a show every night, and I need a gig,’” she says. “But I never got back there. I’m still not back there. That’s okay, because when our industry completely shut down and I moved back home, I thought, ‘I miss Tulsa. I miss my family.’ I realized how homesick I was. I kept saying, ‘I’ve been 22

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2023

homesick since I left – in 2003.’ So I told Frozen, ‘Not coming back. Have a good time.’ And it’s still going.

Cathy Venable returned home “I do think the time of to Tulsa during the pandemic.

COVID made us all reconWhile she once had plans to move back to New York, she’s sider everything and figure now ingrained in Tulsa’s music out what was really imporscene once again. tant to us,” she adds. “I’d Photo courtesy Cathy Venable had a really great musical experience in my twenties and thirties when I was Chorale, and I’m back playing for that in Tulsa. I thought it would be lovely to again. So I got my job back.” reconnect with that, and with my family, Although she was finding plenty of and to be here and be part of everybody’s work in her hometown then, she knew, lives. Luckily, I have. You never know. I’m glad there were slots for me to fit into here as she puts it, “there was something else I wanted to experience.” That, of course, in the music scene.” was America’s Mecca for musical performVenable first became a part of that ers. scene in the early ’90s, following college “I was getting ready to turn 35, and I and grad school. However, she notes, the thought, ‘Well, I can turn 35 here or I can seeds for her career in music were sown turn 35 in New York,’ she remembers, ‘So much earlier.

“The most important thing was Barnard why don’t I go and try it?’”

“I happened to have some singer friends Elementary School. That’s where I learned who came here every summer from New more music than I did in all my graduYork to star in our shows at Light Opera ate studies. John Townsend at Barnard Oklahoma, and they said, ‘We need Elementary School taught me so much someone to sublet our apartment for six music. He changed my life,” she says. “I months. Why don’t you come up?’ was an Edison High School kid, and then “I thought, ‘That’s the sign I needed. I’ll I went off to Northwestern to college and go.’ I didn’t have a plan. I didn’t have a job. grad school at Cincinnati. There was a In music, you know, you just have to go wonderful conservatory there, and they and be there and then you start networkhad a master’s degree in accompanying. ing.”

So I became really narrow-focused and Plan or no plan, things turned out well got a degree in accompanying.” for her. Soon, she was freelancing as a Once she returned to Tulsa, she adds, “I piano player for a number of different was playing with the Philharmonic, when Broadway productions – and doing a little it was called that, and I was staff accomsinging as well. panist at TU, which was a big job – a lot “On Broadway, I was always a piano of hours, playing for everything that went player, in the [orchestra] pit,” she says. on: choir, opera, everybody’s recitals. I “But I also played rehearsals for shows did everything I could in Tulsa. I played – daytime rehearsals, run-throughs for for Oratorio Chorus, now known as Tulsa

understudies – and if someone was missing, I always said, ‘Oh, I’ll sing that part.’

I was the person at the piano who would fill in for whoever was missing. I think that came in handy, and it was fun for me to do.

“I was also a paid singer every Sunday in a really fancy Episcopal church that had an all-paid choir. And I did Buttercup in H. M. S. Pinafore with a little opera company. So I can say that I sang on stage while I was in New York. I love singing, and I love playing for singers; I’ve always been in that world of vocal stuff as an accompanist, and I’ve tried to soak up everything I can. It’s come in handy.”

Another thing that will come in handy, should she ever return to New York, is her ability to conduct an orchestra.

“I had avoided conducting my whole life,” she admits. “I had no desire to do it. And then when I went to Broadway, to New York, I found out that to be the pianist every night on a show, you also have to be the assistant conductor. I wasn’t that, so I made a career out of being a substitute for people on Broadway.

The great thing about going out on tour is that I learned to conduct.”

Last year, she conducted Tulsa Opera’s performance of Into the Woods, one of many jobs she’s taken since returning to town. These days, she’s playing regularly for the Tulsa Symphony and Tulsa Chorale as well as for worship services at Harvard Avenue Christian Church. Her holiday season performances include a Tuesdays at Trinity concert of sacred Christmas songs, with Harvard Avenue’s choir director Kelly Ford, set for December 19 at Trinity Episcopal Church in downtown Tulsa. It’s their third year to do the show together.

Still, while she’s happy and busy in her own hometown, Venable admits “there’s always that thought” about returning to New York and perhaps going out on tour again.

“I’ve had a couple of people call me about different national tours, and I’ve said no, because I really want to be here,” she says. “I think it would have to be something pretty regular or substantial.

I don’t think I would want to move back and just be freelancing again, like I did for all those years. I like freelancing in Tulsa.

“And,” she adds with a laugh, “the commute is so good. It’s nice to drive a car again.”

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T H E S TAT E | H O L I D AY S In Bentonville, Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art has a stunning gift shop with a variety of offerings.

Photo by Tom McFetridge courtesy Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art

HIDDEN GEMS AWAIT You can find everything from gems to handmade jewelry at Excavations, the gift shop inside the Sam Noble Museum on the OU Campus.

Museum gift shops offer a variety of goodies for any occasion.

Photo courtesy Sam Noble

T

he doors of museums are open to welcome visitors seeking a unique blend of culture and history. Yet, it’s not just the masterpieces within the hallowed walls that captivate patrons; it’s the treasure troves within the museum gift shops that truly make the experience unforgettable.

These gift shops are brimming with artful wonders, captivating mementos and even some seasonal splendor. From one-of-a-kind ornaments and artisan crafts to history-inspired trinkets and timeless souvenirs, let’s take a look at what some of our local museum gift shops have to offer.

OKLAHOMA CONTEMPORARY Oklahoma City

OKC MUSEUM OF ART Oklahoma City

From collectible art to fun trinkets, the OKCMOA gift shop offers a variety of items for everyone. Looking for decor or gift ideas? Patrons can find Dale Chuhily fine art and merchandise including scarves, blankets, umbrellas and books.

The shop also offers art prints, cocktail recipe books, holiday napkin sets and cards, mugs, handmade ornaments by UKbased-company St. Nicholas, sculptures like Betsy Enzensberger’s Crystal Clear Blue Pop and more.

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From apparel and accessories to home goods, stationary, books and kids’ items, Oklahoma Contemporary’s gift shop is the place to find one-of-a-kind wares. You can also buy unique, hand-made gifts at the Artisan

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2023

Market, which celebrates local talent and provides a platform for artists to showcase their work to a diverse and appreciative audience. This year, the market will take place Dec. 7-10 in the Creative Lounge.

SCIENCE MUSEUM OKLAHOMA Oklahoma City

Adorable stuffed animals run the gamut of species at Tulsa Zoo’s gift shop.

Photo courtesy Tulsa Zoo

The Science Shop at the Oklahoma Science Museum allows shoppers to unearth the wonders of curiosity. It’s a place of scientific marvels, and invites exploration with mind-

bending puzzles, educational games, along with sensory and quirky gadgets. From DIY experiment kits to awe-inspiring science-themed apparel, every item will spark the spirit of discovery. Holiday goodies include a science Advent calendar, an elf tracking kit and a super cool, science-themed coffee maker.

At Crystal Bridges’ gift shop, enjoy nature-inspired pins that are as stunning as they are stylish. You can also grab a collection of turquoise jewelry – whose materials are mined at the state’s own Mona Lisa Mine Photos by Tom McFetridge courtesy Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art

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T H E S TAT E | H O L I D AY S TULSA AIR AND SPACE MUSEUM Tulsa

Embark on a celestial shopping journey at the Tulsa Air and Space Museum gift shop.

Brimming with aviation wonders, the TASM store offers unique gifts for aviation and aerospace fans of all ages, including official NASA merchandise, limited edition memorabilia and framed prints signed by astronauts and aviators. From model planes to cosmic apparel, find the perfect Tulsa Air and Space Museum is just about as festive as you can get during the holidays. souvenir that lets The store also sells NASA merchandise, plus prints signed by astronauts and aviators. imaginations soar Photo courtesy Tulsa Air and Space Museum high above the OKLAHOMA AQUARIUM clouds. Aerospace Jenks adventure awaits.

Dive into the wonders of the GILCREASE MUSEUM Oklahoma Aquarium gift shop, Tulsa a marine-themed haven that The Gilcrease Museum’s echoes the oceanic magic Curations store, right outside within. From playful plush sea Mother Road Market, echoes creatures to exclusive marinethe spirit of the American West. inspired jewelry and attire, it’s The shop unveils a collection of a treasure chest of souvenirs.

Western and Native AmericanImmerse yourself in aquatic inspired crafts, jewelry, books, allure and bring home a piece puzzles, games and exclusive of the ocean’s enchantartist prints. From unique ment. home decor to cultural artifacts, each piece allows visitors to carry home a piece of history.

The Oklahoma City Museum of Art offers a variety of both holiday-related and justfor-fun gifts. Two offerings include The Alps coffee table book by Monacelli, as well as illustrated mugs by artist Trevor Wayne.

Photos courtesy the Oklahoma City Museum of Art

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OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2023

FIRST AMERICANS MUSEUM Oklahoma City

Step into cultural richness at the First Americans Museum gift shop, known as the FAMStore. Teeming with First American heritage, it offers a curated collection of Indigenous fine art, jewelry and apparel.

From traditional tribal pieces to contemporary creations, every item celebrates the diverse tapestry of native cultures and highlights several Indigenous artists. The gift shop also hosts the Winter Holiday Art Market every year to bring Indigenous artists together, offering a unique shopping experience ahead of the holidays.

Science enthusiasts and caffeine fiends alike will love this coffee maker from Science Museum Oklahoma.

Photo courtesy Science Museum Oklahoma

Oklahoma Contemporary hosts its annual Artisan Market from Dec. 7-10, with wares just like this spooky ghost!

Photo courtesy Oklahoma Contemporary

OKLAHOMA CITY & TULSA ZOO Oklahoma City and Tulsa

The items at the OKC Zoo gift shop will have an animal lover roaring with enthusiasm. Offerings range from cuddly plush creatures to safari-inspired apparel. Now through New Year’s Day, you’ll also get a voucher for one free plush of your choice from Safari Gifts when you purchase an OKC Zoo passport for 1, 2, or 4 people.

At the Tulsa Zoo Gift Shop, 2023 is the inaugural year for the organization’s collectible ornament, which features footprints of Tulsa Zoo meerkat Shaka. Other goodies include adorable stuffed animals and the brand-new Tulsa Monopoly game.

CRYSTAL BRIDGES & THE MOMENTARY Bentonville, Ark.

SAM NOBLE MUSEUM Norman

Dig into history and carry home a piece of the past’s mystique at the Sam Noble Museum’s Excavations store. It has everything from dinosaurthemed delights to Native American hand-crafted jewelry featuring gems such as amber and turquoise. You’ll be sure to find something for the paleontologist in your life as you sift through the interactive educational toys, books, replicas, and more.

Just across the border in Arkansas, you’ll find not only some holiday books and artistic delights in the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art gift shop, but also something new at The Momentary, a platform for the art, food and music of our time. The Momentary’s new gift shop is hip, vibrant and perfect for the audience that gathers there for music festivals and other cultural events. Gifts include jewelry, quartz crystals, a variety of holiday decor items and nature-inspired pins.

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A M A P TO L I V I N G W E L L

We Talk a Lot About Juneau

Juneau, Alaska, offers temperate weather and all sorts of excursions.

Alaska’s capital – also the second largest U.S. city by area – offers outdoor adventures and ample shopping.

T

his is a story about a guy named Joe, a tenacious French-Canadian prospector with a fondness for gold.

It was 1880 and Joe and his buddy were exploring uncharted territory in the south of Alaska, having just sailed into the area on the Inside Passage.

They had no maps, but their instructions were simple: Follow the creek up into Last Chance Basin and go as far as you can. So they did.

And finally, there, at the head of the tributary, in the water along with the slate and quartz, they spied their prize – marble-sized nuggets of bright, glistening beautiful gold. Lots of it.

As you’ve guessed, Joe’s last name was Juneau. The men quickly staked out a town site, changed the name of the stream to Gold Creek and the rush was on. Wanderlust runs in the family. Joe grew up hearing tales of his

cousin, Solomon Juneau, co-founder of Milwaukee.

East of Juneau, the terrain is so treacherous, there are no roads.

Everything and everybody must come in by plane or by boat from the west.

Alaska Airlines has multiple flights daily into Juneau International and the state’s ferry system runs yearround. You can “drive” to Juneau, but your trip will include catching a car ferry at either Skagway, Alaska, or Bellingham, Wash.

Being so far north, the average amount of daylight varies dramatically winter to summer, from 6.4 hours per day in December when daytime highs average 34 degrees, to 18.2 hours in June when highs top out in the low 60s.

The city becomes a handy base from which to explore what’s colloquially known as the Pacific Upper Left, a DECEMBER 2023 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

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L I F E & S T Y L E | D E S T I NAT I O NS

region rich with glacier-filled fjords like Glacier Bay National Park and Tracy Arm, plus wilderness areas such as the Tongass National Forest.

The Goldbelt Tram (aka the Mount Roberts Tramway) rises 1,800 feet from the cruise ship docks through a rainforest to restaurants, shops and Mountain House.

Down below in the channel, the lined-up cruise ships look like bathtub toys.

The most notable of the hundreds of glaciers in the area is Mendenhall Glacier,

an easy drive from downtown Juneau. The ice mass’s mountains of mesmerizing blue ice stretches for 13 miles, continually fed by the 1,500-square-mile Juneau ice field.

Hikers head for the visitors center on Mendenhall Lake, the trail head for paths running up both sides of the glacier, plus one to Nugget Falls that ends dramatically at the five-story waterfall.

Along the way, keep an eye out for bears, both black and brown, as well as moose and bald eagles. Whales, seals and

porpoises thrive throughout the Inside Passage, which remains ice-free all year.

Tour operators do a brisk business, whether your passion is humpback whales, massive glaciers or hot fishing spots.

Back in town, there’s lots to learn about the culture and lasting legacy of the Tlingit, Juneau’s first people, about Russian colonization, and about Juneau’s 120-year tenure as Alaska’s capital. The Juneau-Douglas City Museum across from the capitol and the Alaska State Museum a half mile away tell all.

All over town, you’ll find a great diversity of local art: jewelry (especially jade), paintings, woodcuts, photography, sculpture, Christmas figurines, quilts, there’s even a cottage industry in comic book art.

It wouldn’t hurt to buy a Billiken and keep it close. Made of walrus ivory, the small carvings are thought to bring good luck. Among edible souvenirs, check out Alaskan birch syrup, reindeer sausage and wild salmonberry jam.

Bypass the cruise ship crowds by visiting in low or shoulder season.

During the summer months, as many as five or six ships arrive in town daily.

Kick back at BW Grandma’s Feather Bed, a quirky Victorian farmhouse turned country inn, up toward Mendenhall Glacier among the pines.

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30

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2023

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L I F E & S T Y L E | HE ALT H

Understanding Ulcerative Colitis

This inflammatory bowel disease typically develops between the ages of 15 to 30.

A

ccording to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), approximately 600,000 to 900,000 people in the United States have ulcerative colitis – an inflammatory bowel disease that causes sensitivity, swelling and ulcers on the inner lining of the large intestine.

“Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory condition that primarily affects the colon…[and]…the cause continues to be unknown,” says George Salem, M.D., assistant professor of medicine and director of the Crohn’s and Colitis Center at OU Health. “The symptoms, when not treated early at the time of diagnosis, tend to be progressive.”

He says patients typically begin to have rectal bleeding, stool urgency and frequency, diarrhea and mucus in stool.

“If left untreated, patients will experience abdominal pain, generalized fatigue, anemia and poor sleep at night due to worsening diarrhea symptoms, affecting their ability to have an undisturbed sleep at night,” says Salem.

To determine that an individual has ulcerative colitis and not another inflammatory bowel disease, a patient will

32

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2023

receive a thorough evaluation that will include taking a medical history, receiving a physical exam, and performing basic food and stool testing.

“If the diagnosis of ulcerative colitis is suspected, performing a colonoscopy, and obtaining samples from the lining colon, is mandatory for the diagnosis to be made,” says Salem.

He also shares that “the majority of patients are usually healthy before the time of diagnosis, as it tends to commonly affect the younger patient populations, including pediatrics and up to the age of mid-30s.”

The NIH reports that ulcerative colitis is more likely to develop in people between the ages of 15 and 30, those who have a first-degree relative, such as a parent, sibling or child with IBD, and those of Jewish descent.

However, Salem says a diagnosis can be made later in life as well – a form of the disease known as late-onset ulcerative colitis.

Along with the many symptoms associated with ulcerative colitis, other complications can develop such as low bone mass, slowed growth and development in

children, and an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer. The NIH states that individuals with ulcerative colitis are at a higher risk for colorectal cancer if their disease affects a greater portion of the large intestine, is more severe, began at an earlier age, or has been present for a longer time.

In addition, inflammation can also affect other parts of the body beyond the large intestine, including the joints, skin, eyes and liver and bile ducts. People with ulcerative colitis may also have a higher risk of developing blood clots.

For people living with an illness with no known cure, consistent daily management of the disease is essential to minimizing symptoms.

“It can be a challenge to describe the concept of ‘treatable, manageable, but not curable’ to patients and their loved ones…[but]…patients who are on appropriate treatment usually manage symptoms well,” says Salem. “For any chronic condition, appropriate treatment options tend to control the inflammation, control symptoms and prevent long-term complications.”

REBECCA FAST

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LIFE & ST YLE | OUTSIDE THE METRO

Begun in 2022, the Sapulpa Christmas Chute brings thousands of visitors to the city.

Seasonable in Sapulpa

A huge holiday draw beckons tourists and townspeople alike to this northeast Oklahoma gem.

N

ovember’s arrival brought a bevy of construction activity to downtown Sapulpa, as the community began earnest preparations for one of Oklahoma’s biggest and most unique holiday celebrations.

Sapulpa’s Christmas Chute, held for the first time in 2022, is back for a second run with an even larger presence in the downtown area.

The Christmas Chute is a series of ten interconnected and festively decorated canopies, each offering a different Christmas-related theme. All of this is created to bring an abundance of joy to townsfolk and visitors to the Craig County seat that’s bisected by historic Route 66.

It’s enough to make Sapulpa the place to be in northeastern Oklahoma, where the Christmas spirit is alive and well, transforming downtown into a 34

real-life Christmas village.

“It’s like a Hallmark movie in our town,” says Lucy Lawson, the City of Sapulpa’s communications and marketing director.

The Christmas Chute opened in mid-November and runs through Dec. 31. It was the product of brainstorming by a group of Sapulpa civic leaders seeking a unique way to draw visitors to town.

Will Barry, a member of the committee, says discussions began in 2019. The group’s inspiration came mainly from a gigantic, commercial lights display put up each year at a manufacturing plant on the east side of Sapulpa, and holiday festiveness of a popular tavern in neighboring Tulsa.

“We knew people liked lights, and they liked festive decorations, so we just started kicking ideas around, and the Christmas Chute was born,”

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2023

says Barry.

Last year’s event brought thousands of visitors a day.

“It was better than we could have expected last year,” says Lawson. “We saw way more people than we could have imagined.”

Plans for this year include live entertainment on a concert stage, food trucks, scavenger hunts and other attractions. A senior night is planned, with assistance for people with mobility issues.

Most of the events are free. The event also will include heightened security.

“We’re trying to keep the event family-friendly and safe,” says Lawson.

There will be chute themes this year, ranging from simple concepts like snow and gingerbread to more whimsical, like Candyland, Route 66, Santa and his reindeer, elves, and the Nativity. Downtown businesses

have added merchandise and will extend shopping hours during the holiday season.

The community raised hundreds of thousands of dollars last year, Barry says, and has already raised more this year.

Lawson mentions that the City of Sapulpa has allocated $250,000 to this year’s Chute, and also contributes city and voluntary labor toward the event.

The Christmas Chute, in addition to bringing tourists to town, also brings Sapulpa’s residents out in big numbers.

Sapulpa Main Street, an organization dedicated to boosting business in the downtown area, is spearheading several events during the holidays, with a goal of encouraging people to do their Christmas shopping downtown. Planning for the 2024 Christmas Chute will begin in February.

Last year’s first-time event brought to the city “a joy you can’t get anywhere else,” says Barry. “The feeling of satisfaction is immense. It can hardly be expressed, and definitely can’t be purchased.”

HENRY DOLIVE

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Holiday Decor Safety

Lights, candles, trees, cooking ... this season offers a bevy of festive opportunities. However, keeping your home safe should be priority No. 1.

P

racticing a few holiday decorating safety tips can go a long way towards keeping the “joy” in this joyous season. District chief Scott Douglas of the Oklahoma City Fire Department shares some simple but effective ways to keep your family safe and sound as you enjoy holiday decorating, but stresses that the No. 1 rule to follow is to have working smoke alarms.

Lighting

During the season, you’ll likely see various houses with dazzling lights on both the inside and outside of the home – but there is a proper way to install and take care of them.

“It is best to keep holiday decorations or other flammable items away from any object that would emit heat,” says Douglas. “LED lighting is a better option than traditional lighting because LEDs produce lighting without emitting heat.”

Douglas suggests replacing any strings of lights that have worn, broken cords or loose bulb connections. Read the manufacturer’s instructions for the number of light strands to safely connect to one another.

“Use appropriate clips for outdoor Christmas lights,” he continues. “Avoid using nails or staples to attach lights to the home.”

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OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2023

Candles

Holiday-scented candles add a merry flair.

But before you find the matches, Douglas recommends to: • Avoid burning candles in bedrooms or other areas where people may fall asleep; • Blow out candles when you leave the room or go to bed; • Ensure candles are at least a foot away from anything that can burn; • Use sturdy candle holders and place candles on a steady surface away from clutter; • Light candles carefully, keeping hair and loose clothing away from the flame.

Tree Maintenance

Perhaps the most fun holiday tradition is choosing a tree from a local farm and getting it set up in your home. You’ll need to be discerning as you make your selection, and later when you park the tree in your living room.

“Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched,” says Douglas. “Before placing the tree in the stand, cut two inches from the base of the trunk. The reason for doing this is to allow the tree to accept water easier. Add water to the tree daily. Make sure the tree

does not block an exit and that it is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, space heaters, candles or even lights.”

And while keeping your tree alight during the waking hours is common, Douglas recommends to “always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed. Dried trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the home or garage, and should not be placed outside against the home.”

Kitchen Safety

In this season, you’ll likely be spending more time preparing holiday meals. Douglas reminds to be vigilant in the kitchen.

“In Oklahoma City, there are numerous reasons why structure fires happen, but unattended cooking is among the leading causes for these incidents,” he says. “We always remind people to ‘keep an eye on what you fry’. In other words, stay in the kitchen and keep a close eye on your cooking until you are completely finished and the heat is turned off.”

By remaining sharp-eyed this holiday season, you open the door to even more festivity and fun.

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L I F E & S T Y L E | SCENE

Lynn Means, Stacey Ninness, Keith Reed; Champions of Health Gala, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Oklahoma, Tulsa

Glenna & Dick Tanenbaum; 241 Fundraiser, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, OKC

Alexander Mickelthwate, Julie Yu, Barbara Fox DeMaio, Pam Mowry, Michael Baron; Welcome Reception, Canterbury Voices, OKC

Jan Peery, Brandon Pasley, Deb Handy, Erika Barenberg; Donor & Volunteer Appreciation Event, YWCA of OKC

Misty Copeland, Lauren Richter, Leyla Fayyaz; Dance Education Flower screening, Tulsa Ballet

38

Debby Hampton, Marnie Taylor; Chamber event, Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits, OKC

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2023

Michael Laird, Maureen Heffern, Sean Trauschke; James R. Tolbert III Crystal Orchard Awards, Myriad Gardens Foundation, OKC

Jamie Shouse with the Oklahoma Children’s Theatre Board; Annual meeting, Oklahoma Children’s Theatre, OKC

Alexander Mickelthwate, David & Rachel Holt, Debra & Kristian Kos; Maestro’s Ball, Oklahoma City Philharmonic

Randy Macon, Ginny Evans, Christina Hightower, Nancy Gaden; Fall Y’all event, Oklahoma Hall of Fame, OKC

Dave Rader, Brad R. Carson, Danny C. Williams; TU Homecoming/Distinguished Alumni event, University of Tulsa

Jenna Buckles, Brooklyn Peterson, Alyssa Brown, Kyle Peterson; Protection: Adaptation & Resistance opening, Living Arts of Tulsa

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L I F E & S T Y L E | G UI D E The five main types of living options in senior communities include independent living; assisted living; long-term care or skilled nursing; rehabilitation; and memory care.

Photo courtesy Covenant Living at Inverness

Considering All the Options

Senior living welcomes a variety of new experiences via retirement communities around Oklahoma.

A

s we close out the year and begin to make plans for the future, many may be considering switching up their living situations.

For those who are nearing retirement age, the idea of downsizing and shedding some homeowner responsibilities may be appealing. But these same people may be wondering: What are the benefits of retirement communities? What options are available?

How can I best make the decision that’s right for me?

“Contrary to what a lot of people believe, a continuing care retirement community – also known as a life plan community – is not about healthcare; it is about healthy living. Healthcare is simply one of the amenities,” says Cari Bashaw, director of sales at Covenant Living at Inverness.

Care Offerings

From the on-set, it is important to understand your options when it comes to types of care. The five main types are independent living; assisted living; long-term care or skilled nursing; rehabilitation; and memory care.

“In independent living, residents are typically at a point where they desire a little assistance with non-medical activities like cooking, shopping and housekeeping,” says Stacy Axsom, director of sales at Cedarhurst of Woodland Hills. “However, 40

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2023

they can manage daily medical needs independently.”

For residents who need some support and medical assistance at the ready, “assisted living provides delicious meals and helping hands throughout the day and night,” says Bashaw.

Once round-the-clock medical care and supervision is needed, it is time for longterm care or skilled nursing. Here, family members can be confident their loved one is receiving quality care and attention, says Bashaw.

Rehab care may be required after a major medical procedure or illness, and memory care is for those diagnosed with dementia. A doctor typically helps make these placement decisions.

“Therefore, as much as possible, we do not silo activities into living areas or levels of care.”

But Goforth mentions that there are classes offered with a special consideration toward differing levels of physical wellness, stamina and mental acuity.

As an independent living community, Cedarhurst at Woodland Hills offers a variety of activities, including outings to museums and restaurants, book clubs, water aerobics, happy hours and movie nights, according to Axsom. And if residents or family members have ideas for new activities, all they have to do is ask.

“If they know of hobbies or games our residents love, our staff is more than happy to incorporate them into the schedule,” says Axsom. Family members should feel

Enrichment Opportunities

But regardless of the level of care that a resident may need, there are many enrichment options available within a retirement community. In fact, one of the benefits of living in a more communal space as we age is the availability of activities to keep bodies and minds active.

“Our goal is to provide meaningful engagement opportunities at all stages of living,” says Sharon Goforth, resident life director at Covenant Living at Inverness.

Photo courtesy Covenant Living at Inverness

L I F E & S T Y L E | GUID E

Photo courtesy Cedarhurst of Woodland Hills

welcome to join in many of the activities as well.

Covenant Living at Inverness also employs a resident committee to help organize and promote the activities offered.

“When planning activities … it is critical that options are resident centered,” says Goforth. “For us, that means that a resident committee collects ideas and helps with implementation.”

What to Think About

If having access to these types of amenities is beginning to sound appealing, it is time to consider what else is important for your lifestyle and happiness as you age.

There are many questions to be asked and

potential residents initially assume. answered when choosing a new Making visits to top choices for commuresidence, especially if you are looknities is a vital step in the research process. ing into the options for retirement Carefully observe interactions between communities. residents and staff. Does everyone appear “Proactivity is key here. Rather happy to be there and respectful of each than waiting for a triggering other? Ask yourself other questions, like: event like a fall, planning ahead Can I envision myself living here? is encouraged,” says Axsom. “This After thorough research has been done allows you to have full control over and all questions answered, Axsom recomthe transition into a senior living mends trusting your instincts. community.”

“You will know when it feels right for Bashaw recommends paying atyou – a place where you’re comfortable, tention to several different aspects of the community: level of care, credentials, welcomed and supported,” she says. amenities and cost.

BONNIE RUCKER As mentioned before, the level of care required should be carefully considered, and perhaps even evaluated by a doctor. Earlier is always better.

Bashaw reminds those searching that the state inspects every care center, and those reports are available upon request. Cost is always a difficult discussion, but should be addressed in a straightforward Leadership at Cedarhurst of Woodland Hills says that being proactive about finding a senior living community – before a health issue like a fall arises – can help you manner - payment options make the most thought-out choice for your next chapter. may be more flexible than Photo courtesy Covenant Living at Inverness

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41

WHAT MAKES A COMPANY

TRULY GREAT? WELL, IT DEPENDS ON WHO YOU ASK.

Some would say the company’s legacy and history, others the benefits and vacation time. Those with philanthropic leanings may look for volunteer opportunities or a focus on ethics. Social butterflies prefer a strong company culture, and go-getters want to work in a place where innovation is rewarded.

Rand Elliott Architects, Scott McDonald © Gray City Studios

dedicated to the art of possibility.

Bottom line: businesses have to truly take care of their employees to attract top talent. The following enterprises listed in Oklahoma Magazine’s 2023 Great Companies to Work For feature do just that and more.

structural • civil • landscape • survey tulsa • oklahoma city • atlanta denver • kansas city • nashville wallace.design

All photos courtesy their respective companies

By Tracy LeGrand and Mary Willa Allen 42

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2023

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A MISSION AND A MINISTRY

F

or Bob Funk, Sr., cofounder, president and CEO of Express Employment Professionals, helping people find great jobs is both a personal mission and a spiritual ministry.

“I have always been blessed with a drive to help others,” says Funk. “In my formative years, I wanted desperately to be in the ministry. Some people are made to share the good news – on the other hand, there were different plans for me, and I stepped away from preaching.”

Now, he says, “I still feel I am ministering to those around me, just not from a pulpit.

There are so many people who have come through the Express doors who want to work, to support their families and put food on the table. What more of a rewarding career can you have than helping people reach their goals, and allowing them to be valuable members of their community?”

Funk founded Express in 1983, and it has grown to become the state’s largest staffing provider, with a current goal of putting 460,000 people to work annually by 2027.

As to future growth and innovations, the president and his leadership team turned to employees for feedback, which led to the creation of a core group that refined the company’s vision.

“It was an exciting project that became a set of tools,” says Funk. “These tools included training sessions through our Learning and Development department, office tools that remind our team members of who they are, and opportunities to congratulate and support those around us who exhibit the essence of our values.”

It’s the people and the culture of the company that make Express a truly great place to work.

“We, as a company, are always celebrating and gathering together,” says Funk. “We hold internal success competitions for offices to be able to grow from previous years or quarters. These are celebrated every other week through technology gatherings and have turned into group sharing on best practices and ways to grow our business.

We understand we also have to have fun.”

Bob Funk, Sr., head of Express Employment Professionals, isn’t afraid to turn to his employees for feedback. Photo courtesy Express

And Funk isn’t complacent taking a back seat in curating that fun.

“I have always led through love and care,” he says. “Many of our team members know me personally. I am constantly in communication with our leadership group, but also take time to have connection meetings. In these meetings, we celebrate team members’ successes, and I always make time to answer their questions, whether they are on business matters, my history or even brainstorming on new opportunities.”

Express employees enjoy multiple events throughout the year, including a fun fair with Ferris wheels, carousels, games and fair food. The holidays are also a time to

celebrate in-house and to support local causes; Express even matches donations for employee-led efforts.

“Supporting our team is key, in my opinion,” says Funk. “To see them succeed and to see the smiles on the faces of our team brings so much joy to my heart; it is irreplaceable.”

Community giving and philanthropic efforts continue to be the heart of Express – and of Funk’s own life.

“I have supported many, many causes throughout my career and life,” he says. “As we grow in life, I feel that we find areas of support that are a calling. I believe in giving to community causes that make change and give hope to the youth of today.” - TL DECEMBER 2023 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

43

THE CURIOUS DELEGATOR

B

ill Cameron balances a lot of plates – and that’s putting it lightly.

He’s president and CEO of the Cameron Group – the holding company for the Cameron family’s business holdings – which includes such companies as American Fidelity Assurance, INSURICA and First Fidelity Bank.

American Fidelity, the group’s flagship organization, is an insurance company that “specializes in the education, public sector, automotive and healthcare industries, with products like group and individual life, health and annuity services, as well as other financial security products and services,” says Cameron. First Fidelity Bank services both of Oklahoma’s major metros as well as Phoenix, Ariz., and INSURICA is one of the top 50 commercial line insurance agencies in the U.S. This is only a handful of the successful companies on Cameron’s roster. To many, his day-to-day would seem daunting ... or even impossible. But Cameron has a few tools in his belt to remain on top of his game.

“I am very curious. I spend time understanding the basic business models of each of the companies in the Cameron Group. I strive to understand how the differences of each of the companies can help bring solutions across the board,” he says. “I would call myself a very curious delegator.”

But he doesn’t go it alone. Cameron has made sure to surround himself with innovators, and believes in transparency across the organization at large.

“It’s been important to hire great people and make sure we have fun along the way,” he says. “Though we operate as individual companies, we have common goals to find solutions for our customers. This includes profit sharing across the overarching organization, to give us the advantage to achieve our goals across our span of business. We also make sure that we share the performance of each business with leadership, and ensure that each of the colleagues down the line understand where we are at, and where we want to go.”

44

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2023

Bill Cameron, head of the Cameron Group of companies, succeeds through transparency, delegation and hard work.

Photo courtesy American Fidelity

The group of companies has been helmed by the Cameron family since 1959. First by Cameron’s grandfather, then his father, then Cameron himself. After graduating from Dartmouth College, Cameron surely had his fair share of opportunities around the country – or the globe – but he returned to Oklahoma with vigor.

“I wanted to carry on in the footsteps of my grandfather and father, who gave me a tremendous leg-up for success,” he says.

“As you can see, we’ve made great strides in Oklahoma, and across the country. Okla-

homa is a great state to be headquartered in.”

Looking towards the future, he’s excited to keep the business family-run.

“I am very thankful … to my three daughters who are learning the business and will be able to carry on to future generations,” he says. “I’m also very thankful for the quality workforce in Oklahoma, and proud to be building on the foundation my grandfather and father laid, and I want to pass on these opportunities to my kids and future generations.” - MWA

PEOPLE FIRST, ALWAYS ith humble beginnings in 1920’s Texas, Bama Companies has grown to become a global manufacturing/food service behemoth with headquarters in Tulsa and production plants in China and Europe.

Paula Marshall is the third generation of familial leadership, and she continues to exemplify, and encourage others to embrace, Bama’s longtime motto: ‘People helping people be successful.’

Marshall describes Bama Companies as a frozen bakery, flash-desert business, and reflects on just how much it has grown over the last near century.

“My grandmother started with route trucks in 1921; it became dad’s company in 1935, and he and my mother moved from Dallas to Tulsa in 1937,” she says.

“Dad developed the relationship with McDonald’s, and we’ve been on their menu since 1968. We focused on frozen, handheld bakery items and desserts. Today we also produce pizza crust, biscuits, hotcakes and other ready-to-bake products for some of the world’s large restaurant chains and retail stores.”

Marshall herself took over the company in the early 1990’s after the loss of her father. She says leadership was able to move forward by redefining company goals and focusing on what matters the most: people. Along with the help of an outside facilitator, the company’s motto was refined to exemplify a fresh start.

“Our product might change, but our people will always be our people. We want everyone in the circle successful,” she says.

“Also, I decided I didn’t want to just hang [the motto] on a wall, I wanted to make it live. So we looked at all policies, designs, procedures, how we bought materials, how we treated people – everything. We started to define every aspect of what that motto means. It’s a snap and easy to remember, lives on with all interactions and on all teams. For me, it’s with customers and with buyers. It lives in all kinds of ways.”

Paula Marshall leads Bama Companies with a focus on continued family ownership and a passion for her employees. Photo courtesy Bama

With such a storied history, company milestones are easily recalled, both before and after Marshall took the helm. Perhaps the biggest in the ‘before’ category is landing that megalithic client: McDonald’s.

“My father’s ability to get with McDonald’s in that very early time, and then maintaining with McDonald’s over the years was huge, and propelled [the company] through his life,” she says.

And when Marshall took over, “we pursued the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award and got it in 2004-2005; that was big for me,” she says. “Also there’s been building the business with Pizza Hut and Walmart continuing. We now have three plants in China and three plants in Europe, and so building and staying focused on quality and cost has been a key philosophy for us.”

The future of Bama for Marshall translates to continuous innovation.

“We’re constantly working on innova-

tions with customers, type attributes, flavors and fillings that fall into our product genres,” she says. “The latest new one rolled out over the summer – a cookies and cream pie with chocolate crust and a vanilla and marshmallow center. It was the first new pie at McDonald’s in recent years and the first time ever we worked with chocolate.”

Looking ahead, Marshall is optimistic about the future.

“Our family has been at this since 1927, and so 2027 will be 100 years,” she says.

“We’ve been here with several family buyouts, closed some plants that family members were running, and done everything to keep it family controlled and not sold out to private equity or other investors. We like our ability to be a family business and do things the way we think they should be done. We plan to stay Bama – private and part of the family for generations.” - TL DECEMBER 2023 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

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A SPIRIT OF RESILIENCE hen considering the state’s most impressive facilities – like the BOK Center, Oklahoma History Museum and the newly renovated State Capitol – there’s one company that comes to mind: Manhattan Construction Group. And that’s thanks in part to that company’s president, Larry Rooney.

Manhattan’s list of skyline-defining projects doesn’t end there; the team is also responsible for the River Spirit Casino and Hotel expansion and the First American’s Museum.

As a group of united companies, Manhattan is “involved in numerous other types of infrastructure projects including highway road work, bridges, and even oil and gas pipeline work,” says Rooney. “We manage the construction process for all of these types of projects, and about half of our workforce are tradesmen and tradeswomen who work in the field, installing various materials and components.”

Long lauded as a great place to work, Manhattan Construction Group celebrated 125 years in business “a few years ago, which is a milestone we are very proud of,” says Rooney. “We are proud to have been able to provide such a stable work environment for our employees, and even have a few approaching 50 years with our companies. It’s always our goal for team members to start and end their careers with us.”

Rooney is the fifth generation of family ownership at Manhattan, a legacy of which he is proud.

“Our history is certainly unique in the current day business environment, and that’s a testament to my father and his predecessors, who built the business centered around people,” says Rooney. “We have always strived to satisfy the needs of our customers, as well as provide stable employment for our teams, by making decisions not just about the current quarter, but in terms of decades and generations.

My ancestors have managed this business through multiple pandemics, recessions, the Great Depression, and numerous other 46

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Five generations of family, including current president Larry Rooney, helped to build the strong legacy of Manhattan Construction Group.

Photo courtesy Manhattan

challenges, and our teams today embody their spirit of resilience and perseverance – no matter what obstacle is put in front of us.”

With its fast-paced business setting, milestones continue to accrue at Manhattan.

One highlight is hard to choose.

“There are so many of our team’s accomplishments I could point to over the past several years that I’m proud of: completion of the new Globe Life Field project in Arlington at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic is one that stands out. Closer to home, I am truly proud of completing the Oklahoma State Capitol interior renovation, and the impact that will have on future generations of Oklahomans.”

Every successful leader has their own management style; Rooney’s is team-oriented.

“I hope my team would agree that I try to empower them as much as possible and

avoid micromanaging,” says Rooney. “My goal is to set out strategies and give our teams the tools to be successful in this business, and in life for their families. We are blessed to have so many hard-working members of our team, because in construction, it’s impossible to be successful without a strong team culture.”

Empowering employees and the next generation via competitive compensation and benefits is only part of a healthy company, says Rooney.

“More importantly, it’s the intangibles, like office outings, team gatherings, volunteering together and general care for our fellow neighbor and communities that I think sets us apart,” he says. “Family culture is very important to us; we aim to make sure that all of our team members feel that they are part of our Manhattan family, and we are here to support each other.” - TL

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TRIARCH ARCHITECTURE

WESTREET CREDIT UNION

ROSS GROUP ARVEST BANK

ACCOUNTING Eide Bailly LLP

STATEWIDE Eide Bailly, founded in 1917, is a CPA and accounting firm with more than 3,300 employees in 40 offices over the U.S. and India. Eide Bailly is among the top 25 accounting firms in the country, offering audit and assurance services as well as tax, advisory, digital, wealth and other services.

HoganTaylor

OKC AND TULSA HoganTaylor, with a contingent of more than 350 professionals in accounting, tax, wealth management, assurance and fiscal technology, serves clients ranging from large entities to small businesses and individual investors. Offices can be found in Tulsa and OKC, as well as Little Rock and Fayetteville, Ark.

AEROSPACE/AVIATION Boeing Co.

OKC Building the future of the aerospace industry, Boeing offers careers in everything from cybersecurity to data science, engineering, information technology and manufacturing. Boeing also invests in its employees with impressive benefits that include a 10% 401(k) match and tuition assistance.

Omni Air International

TULSA Headquartered at the Tulsa International Airport grounds in Hanger 19, Omni Air International offers passenger charter flights, strategic capacity partnerships and customized charter programs. Formed in 1993, Omni has additional airport bases in Honolulu, Dallas, Seattle and Baltimore.

Private Jets, Inc.

BETHANY With an exceptional array of high-quality jets, Private Jets, Inc., located at the Wiley Post Airport, is an FAAapproved Part 135 operator offering jet charter flights 48

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2023

for business and private travelers.

The company has a commitment to aviation safety, high quality aircraft and unbeatable private jet services.

$147 million facility which will serve more than 300 patients daily.

Tulsa International Airport

Prime Architects

TULSA A civil-military airport located five miles northeast of downtown Tulsa, Tulsa International Airport offers domestic destinations, customs and border patrol facilities and is American Airlines’ global maintenance headquarters. A variety of direct flights land everywhere from Las Vegas and Los Angeles to Orlando, Phoenix and Chicago.

Will Rogers World Airport

OKC Oklahoma City’s Will Rogers World Airport is a civilmilitary airport offering flights to Seattle, New York, Atlanta, Washington D.C., Denver, Nashville and more.

Earlier this year, leadership finished a $68 million renovation which included new space for U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

ARCHITECTURE (COMMERCIAL) FSB Architects + Engineers

OKC AND TULSA FSB Architects + Engineers is a premier, full-service architecture and engineering firm. Locally owned since 1945, the firm serves diverse clients spanning multiple industries. Internally, FSB encourages collaboration and innovation, empowering team members and offering a variety of opportunities for professional and personal growth.

KKT Architects

TULSA KKT Architects, named a 2023 Top 100 Rising Giant

by Interior Design Magazine, is a full-service architecture, interiors and engineering firm. KKT recently partnered with the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services to create a

NORMAN A veteran owned practice headquartered in Norman, Prime Architecture offers services in comprehensive architectural design and planning to both government and commercial clients. With collaboration at the core of the business model, Prime believes the best ideas come from working together.

Rand Elliott Architects

OKC Founded in 1976, Rand Elliott Architects offers services in architectural design, historical preservation, space planning and interior design, alongside feasibility studies, master planning and lighting design.

Recent projects include the Heartland Payment Systems’ corporate offices in OKC.

TriArch

TULSA TriArch, an award-winning architecture firm, offers services for projects in the health, education, tribal, commercial, religious and residential sectors – creating a stage for its clients’ stories. Recent projects include lobby expansions at Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, as well as Whimsy Cookie Company and Newkirk Public School.

BANKING, FINANCE AND INVESTING Ameriprise Financial

STATEWIDE Clients seeking a comprehensive and personalized approach to wealth management can visit Ameriprise Financial, with services in asset management, securities-based lending, estate and retirement planning, taxes, stocks, mutual funds, insurance annuities and education savings, among others.

REGENT BANK

Commerce Bank

STATEWIDE Approaching 160 years in service, Commerce Bank operates with a mission to help people and businesses solve financial challenges, so they can focus on the things that matter most. The bank provides features such as home loans, business loans, personal banking accounts and online banking.

Fidelity Investments

Arvest

STATEWIDE Arvest serves clients in Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma, offering services including wealth management, investment planning and mortgage programs. Recent community impact includes the formation of the Arvest Opportunity Fund, a non-bank subsidiary of Arvest Bank which, to date, has assisted more than 180 small business customers with $4.4 million in loans.

Bank of America

STATEWIDE Bank of America, among the largest financial institutions in the world, serves large corporations, individual investors and both small and middlemarket businesses. Services include investing, banking, asset management as well as other risk management and financial offerings for 68 million clients.

BOK Financial

TULSA BOK Financial serves consumers via personal, commercial and business banking, wealth management and loans. Committed to giving back, BOKF employees invested more than 33,000 volunteer hours in the community in 2022. Companywide, the BOKF Foundation has contributed over $100 million to support United Way, education efforts and other charitable endeavors over the past quarter century.

Charles Schwab

OKC, NORMAN AND TULSA Charles Schwab is a full-service wealth management service that includes investment products and trading. This year, the firm debuted Schwab Trading Powered by Ameritrade, which provides consumers with fiscal tools designed for traders of all types and levels of expertise.

BOK FINANCIAL

STATEWIDE Since 1946, Fidelity Investments has served more than 43 million clients with services including financial planning, management, and employee benefit program management. Aiming to make complex financial matters simpler for all, Fidelity supports more than 3,700 wealth management firms and institutions.

Merrill

First Fidelity Bank

MidFirst Bank

Gateway First Bank

Morgan Stanley

JPMorgan Chase

Regent Bank

Mabrey Bank

Sovereign Bank

STATEWIDE Award winning and privately owned First Fidelity Bank was founded in 1920 and serves commercial banking, business banking and personal banking needs. Community values are at the heart of the bank; leadership prioritizes local sponsorships, fundraising and volunteering in the communities they serve.

JENKS Headquartered in Jenks, award-winning Gateway First Bank is among the largest financial institutions in the state, with eight Oklahoma locations and 115 nationwide. Gateway operates with the mission to help clients pursue their vision of happiness, all on their terms.

STATEWIDE The country’s largest bank by market capitalization as of 2023, JPMorgan Chase boasts $2.6 trillion in client assets. With more than 250,000 employees around the world, the company is ranked in Fortune Magazine’s top five of the World’s Most Attractive Employers by business students.

STATEWIDE Since 1924, Mabrey Bank has served Oklahoma’s banking needs with a wide array of financial services at 15 locations. The family-owned institution is proactive in the community, and aims to provide financial security and individualized service to all who pass through its doors.

STATEWIDE A Bank of America company, Merrill offers various avenues to invest and handle financial and wealth management, including the self-directed Merrill Edge, which is a goals-based, guided investment experience where clients can meet with virtual or in-person advisors to discuss objectives.

STATEWIDE MidFirst Bank wields assets totaling $36.6 billion and is the largest privately owned bank in the U.S. Despite its size, MidFirst offers the feel and flexibility of a community bank. Recognition and awards include the highest ranking in the southwest region and the highest overall score in the J.D. Power U.S. Retail Banking Satisfaction Study.

STATEWIDE Headquartered in New York City, and with more than 75,000 employees in 41 countries, Morgan Stanley is an industry leader in financial services including investment management, banking, sales and trading. Clients range from government entities to corporate institutions and individual investors.

STATEWIDE Regent Bank delivers a personalized approach to financial services, with tailored solutions and dedicated support that adapts to each client’s unique needs. Valuing attention to personal service and a culture of inclusion, Regent was named as one of Inc. Best Workplaces in 2023.

STATEWIDE Formerly known as First National Bank & Trust Co., Sovereign Bank was founded in 1984 and is the nation’s largest tribally owned bank. Sovereign aims to empower clients’ to reach financial goals and serve their communities, blending big-bank capabilities with small-town touch.

CROSSLAND CONSTRUCTION

FIRST FIDELITY BANK

ALERT360

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CONSTRUCTION Cowen Construction

OKC AND TULSA For more than 125 years, Cowen Construction has impacted the community with award-winning projects in the healthcare, education, office, banking, multi-family and retail industries. Services range from preconstruction to construction management, general contracting, design bid and development. Projects include Jenks Landing, Ascension St. John Sapulpa and the OSU Student Union.

COWEN CONSTRUCTION

UBS Wealth Management

OKC As one of the world’s largest wealth managers, USB Wealth Management can assist in financial planning, retirement, mortgage planning and more.

Founded in 1862, UBS now employs more than 70,000 people and assists individuals, families and businesses alike with their unique needs.

Wells Fargo

STATEWIDE In March of 1852, Henry Wells and William G. Fargo founded a business to help customers manage money and excel in business endeavors. Today, the company continues to provide innovative financial and banking services with offerings including corporate and investment banking, personal and commercial banking and wealth management.

Crossland Construction

OKC AND TULSA Approaching 50 years in business, Crossland Construction began in the garage of Ivan Crossland.

Now, the company is among the top construction companies in the U.S., but remains family-owned and operated. Projects run the gamut of industries, from industrial to civic, medical, retail and more.

G.E. Johnson

Nabholz Construction Corp.

Cox Communications

J.E. Dunn Construction Group

STATEWIDE More than 20,000 employees strong, Cox Communications is a digital cable television provider that offers telecommunications and home automation/ security system services. Cox is the country’s largest private broadband company, providing fast, reliable coverage and operating fiber broadband networks in more than 30 states.

OKC AND TULSA With 26 offices nationwide, J. E. Dunn Construction Group is the country’s eighth largest general contractor with services that include design, preconstruction, prefabrication and manufacturing.

Headquartered in Kansas City, the company is privately owned and has been in business for nearly a century.

MANHATTAN CONSTRUCTION GROUP

KKT ARCHITECTS

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Manhattan Construction Group

OKC AND TULSA Founded in 1908, Flintco is a full-service general contractor with eight offices, licensed in 34 states.

The mission? The unwavering pursuit of the perfect construction experience. Services include preconstruction planning, general contracting, construction management and project/program management.

STATEWIDE Headquartered in Dallas, AT&T is an American multinational telecommunication holding company that provides 5G to data consumers. The largest wireless carrier in the country, AT&T is the world’s thirdlargest telecommunications company by revenue.

AT&T

FSB ARCHITECTS + ENGINEERS

STATEWIDE In business for more than 125 years, privately-held and family-owned Manhattan Construction Group operates with core tenants that include an emphasis on safety, mutual respect, integrity, excellence and the wellbeing of clients and employees. From pre-construction to general building, project management, design/build, pipeline integrity and maintenance, the experts at Manhattan serve the U.S., Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean.

Flintco

OKC G.E. Johnson offers more than fifty years of experience in construction and continues a legacy of paying it forward via community support and volunteerism, including the Build Like A Girl event to educate young women about careers in construction. The company raised $10,000 in 2023 to combat food insecurity and filled hundreds of backpacks with donated school supplies.

COMMUNICATION

MCGRAW REALTORS

STATEWIDE With roots going back to 1949, employee-owned Nabholz Construction offers services in construction, crane and equipment rental, machinery moving/installation/maintenance, facility maintenance/ repair, custom fabrication and millwork, among others. Above all, integrity guides purpose at Nabholz.

Ross Group

OKC AND TULSA Ross Group is a family-grown construction, engineering and development firm that began as a small business specializing in carpentry and interior finishes in 1979. Today, the three-office enterprise boasts more than 125 employees and is recognized as an industry leader in facilities construction.

Sectors served include education, aviation, tribal, multi family-living, hospitality, historic preservation, healthcare and government, among others.

Call 918-699-8585 or visit us online at www.keyjobs.com

CREDIT UNIONS Communication Federal Credit Union

STATEWIDE Communication Federal Credit Union has roots going back to 1939; fast forward to today, and CFCU serves industry giants, with business partners that include ONEOK, ONE Gas and Goodyear Tire. With locations in Oklahoma and Kansas, CFCU is committed to local communities through volunteerism and financial education.

Oklahoma Central Credit Union

TULSA Oklahoma Central Credit Union serves members through banking and checking accounts, online banking, money management resources, auto loans, financial planning and mortgage assistance.

Founded in 1941, OCCU continues to make a difference in the lives of employees, members and the communities it serves.

Red Crown Credit Union

TULSA Formed in 1938, Red Crown Credit Union originally served employees of Standard Oil & Gas and is now open to consumers in Tulsa, Creek, Osage, Pawnee and Okmulgee counties. Red Crown offers a bevy of banking services including checking and savings accounts, online banking and bill pay, loans, mobile banking and more.

Tinker Federal Credit Union

WEOKIE Federal Credit Union

OKC Founded in 1969 by Western Electric Plant employees, WEOKIE Federal Credit Union is known for low/no fees and generous rates – resulting in members collectively saving more than $18 million since 2021. WEOKIE offers traditional banking services, low loan rates, higher savings rates and today holds more than $1 billion in assets.

WeStreet Credit Union

TULSA A community-minded financial institution, WeStreet Credit Union serves about 56,000 members, helping neighbors become members and members become family. Core values at WeStreet include trust, integrity, teamwork and making a difference, with services that include banking, loans, planning/investing, and financial education.

DISTRIBUTION Fabricut

TULSA With nearly seven decades in operation, employee-owned and family-run Fabricut has become one of the world’s largest distributors of wholesale and decorative fabric. The operation was the dream of two survivors of Nazi-occupied Germany, and today, Fabricut features more than 58,000 varieties of trimmings and fabrics.

paid more than $2.25 billion in taxes, helping to facilitate infrastructure projects, education and safety services statewide.

Continental Resources

OKC A top 10 independent oil producer in the nation, Continental Resources is the largest leaseholder and the largest producer in the Bakken play of North Dakota and Montana, the premier oil field of the U.S. The company, which celebrated 56 years in business in 2023, exited public markets last year and is now privately held once again.

OG&E

OKC Founded in 1902, Oklahoma Gas & Electric Company – OG&E – is among the highest performing regulated electric utility companies in the country and the largest in Oklahoma. The company serves 889,000 electric customers in 267 cities and towns across Oklahoma and western Arkansas, and is the largest ad valorem taxpayer in Oklahoma.

ONE Gas

TULSA More than 2.3 million customers in Oklahoma, Kansas and Texas depend on ONE Gas for regulated natural gas utility services. The firm is known for community enrichment initiatives, as exemplified by employee-driven volunteerism and donations. With a vast and growing infrastructure, ONE Gas ensures dependendable gas delivery to homes across the state.

STATEWIDE Founded in 1946, Tinker Federal Credit Union serves nearly 500,000 members with assets over $6 billion. Recent innovations include the Interactive Teller Machine – ITM – providing additional video support with a virtual teller. The largest credit union in Oklahoma, TFCU returns profits to members through financial education, higher dividends, lower interest rates and low or no fees.

180 Medical

TTCU Federal Credit Union

ENERGY

TULSA Public Service Company keeps reliable electricity flowing over 30,000 square miles of Oklahoma.

PSO is an active partner, volunteer and donor to a variety of non-profit organizations, and was also recognized as Veteran Employer of the Year in 2023 by the Oklahoma Veterans Alliance.

Chesapeake Energy

Summit Utilities

OKC AND TULSA Founded in 1934 by teachers amidst the Great Depression, TTCU Federal Credit Union has grown to have $2.6 billion in assets and more than 150,000 members. Driven by the simple principle of best serving its members, TTCU offers online/mobile banking, loans, credit assistance and a variety of finance resources.

TINKER FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

OKC Founded in 1994 by Todd Brown, a motocross accident survivor who wanted to significantly improve options for those needing ostomy supplies, 180 Medical today features the highest quality supplies available as well as customer education and personalized service in fulfilling specific medical supply needs.

OKC Headquartered in OKC, oil and gas company Chesapeake Energy is an energy industry leader, committed to a profitable and sustainable enterprise as well as continuous investment in local communities. Over the last decade, the company HOGANTAYLOR

Public Service Company of Oklahoma

STATEWIDE Summit Utilities serves the natural gas energy needs of families and businesses in six states via the operation of thousands of miles of pipeline.

With a focus on community outreach, Summit recently donated $30,000 in grants to Oklahoma nonprofits and fosters a culture of pioneering, excellence, agility, kindness and safety.

Williams

TULSA Williams handles approximately one third of the natural gas in the United States via interstate natural gas pipelines and gathering/processing operations throughout the country. Community involvement is a core tenant at Williams, evidenced in a variety of philanthropic efforts including employee donation matches, in-kind printing, STEM programming and partnerships with area schools.

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CUT THE RIBBON ON

YOUR CAREER WITH US.

A CULTURE OF DESIGN EXCELLENCE

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Delivering affordable, reliable and lower carbon energy is the purpose that unites our employees and drives our operations.

Visit chk.com to learn more.

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WALLACE DESIGN COLLECTIVE

Parkhill

ENGINEERING Burns & McDonnell

OKC Employee-owned and 13,500 employees strong, Burns & McDonnell is a family of companies focused on building critical infrastructure around the U.S. Industries served include telecommunications, government, manufacturing and aviation, with community impact efforts like mentorship and internships.

CEC

OKC, NORMAN, TULSA AND DUNCAN CEC is a privately held, multi-discipline engineering firm serving both public entities and private developers. The firm specializes in everything from transportation design and planning to mechanical, electrical, structural and civil engineering, surveying and construction management. CEC, committed to employee success, has nabbed a variety of industry awards, including Zweig Group’s Best Firms To Work For in 2023.

OKC, NORMAN, WOODWARD AND TULSA Founded in 1945, Parkhill provides comprehensive architectural and engineering design services for the government, commercial and institutional sectors. With a mission to build community by creating inventive, relevant built environCEC ments together, Parkhill has values including real innovation, life balance and contagious passion.

Smith Roberts Baldischwiler

OKC AND NORMAN Formed in 1981, locally owned Smith Roberts Baldischwiler is a civil engineering and land surveying consulting firm, offering specialized services including storm water management, sanitary sewer improvements, water distribution, and highway and bridge design.

Wallace Design Collective

OKC AND TULSA Wallace Design Collective is a consulting firm offering everything from civil and structural engineering to surveying, planning and landscape architecture. Wallace, with over 250 employees, is licensed in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and Washington D.C. Wallace was also included in Engineering News-Record magazine’s Top 500 Design Firms for 2023.

ENTERTAINMENT Armstrong Auditorium

AMERICAN FIDELITY ASSURANCE

Garver

OKC, TULSA AND NORMAN A multi-disciplinary engineering, planning and environmental services firm, employee-owned Garver is more than 1,000 employees strong with 49 offices across 18 states. The firm, founded in 1919, now consistently ranks in the top 100 of the Engineering News-Record’s prestigious Top 500 Design Firms list.

Olsson

OKC AND TULSA Lauded and nationally recognized, employee-owned Olsson was formed in 1956 and continues as an industry leader today with consulting services, civil, structural and electrical engineering, field services and customized engineering and design solutions. Since 2018, the firm has ranked in the top 100 design firms based on Engineering News-Record’s national list.

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EDMOND A world-class center for the arts, Armstrong Auditorium has welcomed Broadway legends, classical ballet troupes, folk dancers and skilled musicians into its halls. With a mission to bring monumental cultural experiences to America’s heartland, Armstrong offers a lauded Performing Arts Series every season.

BOK Center

TULSA Owned by the City of Tulsa, the BOK Center is an award-winning sports and entertainment venue that plays host to the Tulsa Oilers. Along with ushering in music legends including GARVER Madonna and Coldplay, the arena has been home to the Big 12 Wrestling Championship since 2017.

Celebrity Attractions

TULSA Founded in 1983, Celebrity Attractions brings world-class Broadway performances to Oklahoma. With a mission to deliver the best options for theatrical, musical and family entertainment, upcoming offers include Mean Girls, To Kill a Mockingbird and Chicago.

Choctaw Casino Resort Durant

DURANT A destination location, Choctaw Casino in Durant has a full schedule of upcoming musical and comedy entertainment, as well as a AAA Four Diamond hotel and resort, spa, pool, movie theatres, bowling alley, dining options, a state-of-the-art poker room and thousands of slot machines.

Hard Rock Hotel and Casino

TULSA Over four hundred rooms and suites paired with luxury amenities make Hard Rock Hotel & Casino a must-visit destination for gaming, dining and general entertainment. Along with a state-of-theart business center, Hard Rock offers an expansive outdoor pool, golf course, shopping and gym.

Oklahoma City Thunder

OKC Founded in 2008, the Oklahoma City Thunder plays in the NBA’s Northwest Division of the Western Conference. Alongside its basketball team and subsequent economic impact to Oklahoma, the Thunder supports the local community in myriad projects including youth basketball leagues, a speakers bureau, reading challenges and spelling bees.

Osage Casino Hotel

TULSA Osage tribal artworks are featured at Osage Casino, a destination location known for exciting dining, upscale and luxurious accommodations and memorable entertainment. The casino’s concert stage, the Skyline Event Center, will soon welcome Pete Davidson and Marie Osmond.

Paycom Center

OKC Serving more than one million guests annually, Oklahoma City’s Paycom Center brings world class entertainment and sports to downtown OKC. Home to the OKC Thunder, the Paycom Center was opened in 2002 after a $89.2 million construction process.

Major acts over the years include Elton John, Fleetwood Mac and Paul McCartney.

River Spirit Casino Resort

Tulsa Perched over the Arkansas River, River Spirit Casino offers extensive gaming and resort amenities, all while funding the Muscogee Nation’s programs in housing, education and services for the elderly.

Amenities include Margaritaville and Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, alongside a pool and luxury spa.

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Ross Group is honored to be named one of Oklahoma Magazine’s 2023 “Great Companies to Work For!” Visit us at www.withrossgroup.com to learn more about our services and career opportunities.

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RIVER SPIRIT CASINO AND RESORT

QuikTrip

STATEWIDE For a quick stop for fuel and food, QuikTrip offers options galore, including made-to-order pizza, sandwiches, burritos and more. Founded in 1958 in Tulsa, the gas and go company has more than 1,000 locations in the midwestern, southern and western United States, employing more than 24,000.

INTEGRIS

HEALTHCARE Advanced Orthopedics of Oklahoma Tulsa Performing Arts Center

TULSA The Tulsa Performing Arts Center is a downtown venue with an art gallery and extensive in-house art collection, and also plays host to a variety of local and national performances. With a belief that all people deserve access to quality arts experiences, the TPAC has resident partners that include Tulsa Symphony, Celebrity Attractions, Tulsa Ballet and Theatre North.

FOOD/BEVERAGE/CONVENIENCE INDUSTRY Bama Companies

TULSA Serving northeast Oklahoma’s bone, joint and muscle needs, Advanced Orthopedics employs specialty trained doctors whose main goal is delivering comprehensive, compassionate care.

The healthcare specialists handle everything from acute injuries to chronic pain, joint revisions, sports medicine, rehabilitation and more.

Dean McGee Eye Institute

OKC Since 1975, Dean McGee has employed esteemed national and international leaders in all realms of ophthalmology; the institute has more specialists than any other practice in the region. Patients of all ages receive world-renowned care, from newborns to teens, adults and grandparents, and physicians handle everything from refractive surgery to cataracts, ocular prosthetics and cosmetic eye treatments.

TULSA Bama Companies, founded in the 1920’s, continues to provide the world with pizza crusts, buns, biscuits and other baked goodies, and is known for the creation and continued popularity of McDonald’s handheld desserts. Lauded with a variety of industry awards, Bama has received BAMA COMPANIES the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award and was named a 50 Fastest Growing Women-Owned Business by the Women Presidents Organization in 2022.

Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores

STATEWIDE Family-owned Love’s Travel Stops offers 600+ locations in 42 states and provides travelers and professional truck drivers with safe and welcoming opportunities to fuel up. Love’s annually contributes to local and national nonprofits including United Way, Oklahoma City Boathouse Foundation and Teach for America.

Oklahoma Beef Council

OKC Formed in 1975, the Oklahoma Beef Council is a non-profit organization working for the farming and ranching families of Oklahoma to promote and strengthen beef value and grow general trust in beef and beef production. The OBC aims to increase U.S. and global beef demand and drive growth for beef exports.

Oklahoma Pork Council

OKC Via federally collected Pork Checkoff funds, the Oklahoma Pork Council promotes the industry in myriad ways, including research and philanthropic endeavors including the Give-A Ham challenge benefiting food pantries and families in need.

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ally sensitive manner that promotes good health, wellbeing and harmony.

INTEGRIS

OKC Oklahoma’s largest not-for-profit and state-owned healthcare system, INTEGRIS oversees a variety of hospitals, specialty clinics, family care practices and centers of excellence. With the belief that ‘the future of caring for illness is firmly rooted in wellness,’ INTEGRIS works diligently to ensure all who walk through their doors live fuller, healthier lives.

Mercy Health

OKC Offerings at the Mercy Health system are vast – from primary care to heart health, orthopedics, cancer care and pediatrics. Aiming to deliver a transformative healthcare experience for all, Mercy’s core values include dignity, excellence, justice, service and stewardship.

Norman Regional Health System

MOORE/NORMAN Norman Regional Health System has an impressive pedigree: it boasts six accredited Centers for Excellence, a nationally recognized stroke program, the first accredited chest pain center in the metro, and a team of 350+ doctors and advanced practice professionals. The multi-campus system has one mission: to serve the community as a leader in health and wellness.

Oklahoma City Indian Clinic

Eastern Oklahoma Ear, Nose and Throat

TULSA In business since 1975, Eastern Oklahoma ENT offers comprehensive ear, nose and throat care to patients of all ages. Alongside an efficient, knowledgeable patient experience, guests can also expect friendliness and compassion upon every visit. From sinus and thyroid issues to allergies and hearing loss, the team handles it all.

Indian Health Care Resource Center of Tulsa TULSA The Indian Health Care Resource Center is a patient-centered, multidisciplinary nonprofit.

The mission is to provide quality, comprehensive healthcare to Tulsa-area Indian people in a cultur-

OKC With a vision to be the national model for American Indian healthcare, the OKC Indian Clinic began in 1969 as a group of volunteer physicians coming together to fill a healthcare void. Now, the clinic has a full primary care practice accreditation and serves over 22,000 patients from 220+ tribes.

Oklahoma State University Medical Center

TULSA The skilled and compassionate staff of doctors, nurses and specialists at OSU Medical Center are dedicated to patient care and comfort. Services range from cardiovascular medicine to maternal child health, general surgery, diagnostic imaging and more. OSU Medical Center is also one of the nation’s largest osteopathic teaching facilities.

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OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY

The Orthopaedic Center

TULSA From total joint replacement to upper extremity/ joint pain, hand surgeries and sports medicine, the Orthopaedic Center handles a variety of cases. Offering some of the most advanced, patient-specific treatments for bone and joint pain, the Orthopaedic Center is dedicated to improving each patient’s quality of life with orthopedic excellence.

OU Health

OKC AND TULSA Advancing healthcare, medical education and innovative research for Oklahoma, OU Health is nationally recognized for its positive patient experiences.

Additionally, the Children’s Hospital is recognized as one of the top 50 of its kind in the nation. The system also boasts the state’s only Level I Trauma Center, and its cancer center is the state’s only NCIDesignated cancer center.

and its surrounding counties for 125 years, SSM Health St. Anthony began as a singular hospital. Now, the system includes outpatient facilities, clinics and five campuses, as well as a nationally certified stroke center and a Crohn’s and Colitis Center.

OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center

OKC As Oklahoma’s only National Cancer Institute-Designated Cancer Center, Stephenson represents the top 2% of cancer centers in the country. With a focus on innovative research, Stephenson is currently ranked No. 1 among all centers in the nation for the number of patients participating in innovative clinical trials.

Tulsa ER & Hospital

TULSA Tulsa ER and Hospital combines the cutting edge equipment and technology of larger hospitals with the speed and convenience of emergency medicine departments, offering everything from on-site cardiac lab testings to ultrasounds, X-rays, overnight observation and a wait time of five minutes or less.

The team operates with the mission to provide Tulsans with access to concierge-level emergency care 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

HIGHER EDUCATION SAINT FRANCIS HEALTH SYSTEM

Northeastern State University

TAHLEQUAH With a total enrollment of just over 7,300, NSU provides intimate class sizes for maximum learning Saint Francis Health System potential. In fact, 85% of undergraduate classes TULSA have fewer than 30 stuFrom urgent care to OKLAHOMA PANHANDLE STATE UNIVERSITY dents. The university offers women’s health, cardiolnearly 60 undergraduate ogy, cancer care and programs, and is commitorthopedics, Saint Francis ted to student success and Health System provides a a sustainable future for all. broad range of healthcare.

The organization is the Oklahoma City largest private employer in University Tulsa County with 11,000+ OKC employees, 1,000+ doctors Established in 1904, Oklaand 700+ volunteers. Along homa City University is a with its anchor institution top liberal arts and scienc– Saint Francis Hospital – es university with over 60 the system also includes degree programs, includclinics, a children’s hospiing Acting, Dance Managetal, a level IV neonatal ICU ment, Pre-Engineering and a psychiatric clinic, and Political Science. The among others. college is ranked as one of the top universities in SSM Health the country by U.S. News & St. Anthony World Report.

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Oklahoma Panhandle State University

GOODWELL Rooted in progress through knowledge, OPSU has three distinct colleges: Agriculture, Science and Nursing; Arts and Education; and Business and Technology.

With a student-to-faculty ratio of 17:1, OPSU is the first and only public Hispanic Serving Institute in the state and awards $5 million in scholarships annually.

Oklahoma State University

STILLWATER 300+ majors and minors, plus 200+ masters and Ph.D. options are just the tip of the iceberg of offerings at OSU. A nationally ranked research university, OSU believes access to affordable education is an essential part of their mission; thus, tuition and fees are only 69% of the national average for land-grant universities.

Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences

TULSA Begun in 1972 as the Oklahoma College of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery, OSUCHS continues its legacy today through the education and training of osteopathic physicians, scientists and other healthcare professionals. The center has a vision to fulfill the healthcare needs of rural and underserved Oklahomans and produce dedicated, compassionate community leaders.

Oklahoma State University-Tulsa

TULSA Offering flexible, world-class education, OSU-Tulsa has a variety of undergraduate, graduate and certificate programs designed to fit any schedule. OSU-Tulsa is a transfer institution, offering junior- and senior-level undergraduate coursework, and is located in the heart of the Greenwood District.

Rogers State University

CLAREMORE Operating with three full-service campuses in Claremore, Bartlesville and Pryor, RSU has aimed to deliver high-quality academic programs, a nurturing scholastic atmosphere, a variety of distance learning opportunities and a high-technology learning environment for nearly a century.

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Tulsa Community College

TULSA Serving Tulsa and northeastern Oklahoma since 1970, TCC now offers four campuses for maximum student convenience. Advisors work with students and other universities to ensure a seamless credit transition, and TCC is deeply focused on affordability and accessibility; 71% of graduating students complete TCC debt-free.

University of Central Oklahoma

EDMOND UCO – with values that include accessibility, community and inclusivity – connects students to transformative learning and is dedicated to the development of confidence and career-readiness in their graduates. Affordability is paramount as well; more than 85% of current students receive some form of financial aid.

University of Oklahoma

NORMAN Established in 1890, OU is dedicated to both the advancement of its students and the state at large, evidenced in its commitment to research – the school boasts $416.6 million in research expenditures. OU offers more than 170 academic programs, alongside robust extracurricular offerings, and is dedicated to helping graduates find jobs through the OU Career Center.

University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma

CHICKASHA Oklahoma’s only public liberal arts college, USAO is a recognized leader and innovator in interdisciplinary studies; in 2022, U.S. News and World Report ranked USAO in the top 20 of their Top Public Schools list. USAO prides itself on its interactive, small classes, all taught by professors – not graduate assistants.

University of Tulsa

TULSA TU offers a 9:1 student-faculty ratio with an average class size of 13. With 145+ degree programs, TU aims to prepare students for successful futures, evidenced in their job placement guarantee and Center for Career Development. Leadership at TU operates with a strong belief in mutual respect and understanding, welcoming students from all walks of life.

HUMAN RESOURCES AND STAFFING AGENCY Express Employment Professionals

STATEWIDE The mission at Express is simple: help as many people as possible find good jobs, by helping as many clients as possible find good people. Providing workforce solutions to a variety of industries, Express is a leading staffing agency not only in the U.S., but in Canada, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand. Along with boosting general employment rates around the world, Express is dedicated to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging.

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Key Personnel

OKC AND TULSA Key Personnel has a mission to grow value in the community through placing key people in key positions. A women-owned business, Key was created in 1978 and has operated with a dedication to continuous improvement ever since – helping employees and employers in the industrial, clerical, professional and medical industries.

CommunityCare

TULSA Locally owned and operated, CommunityCare is helmed by two of the region’s premier health systems: Saint Francis and Ascension St. John. Serving Oklahomans for 30 years, CommunityCare has held the same mission through it all: to provide high quality, cost-effective health care management services to the community.

Robert Half

OKC AND TULSA With a mission to bring great companies and specialized talent together to build successful businesses and careers, Robert Half helps both job- and employee-seekers with fast hiring processes and experienced recruiters. Industries served range from finance and accounting to administration, technology and marketing.

INSURANCE American Fidelity Assurance

OKC More than just an insurance company, American Fidelity Assurance provides HR solutions to a variety of clients, from the public sector to the education and automotive industries. The company offers everything from custom benefit strategies to enrollment and administration assistance, as well as benefits compliance.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Oklahoma

STATEWIDE Blue Cross Blue Shield of Oklahoma, the only statewide, customer-owned health insurer in Oklahoma, has various plans to meet individual needs. The company has a mission to close gaps in preventative care and provide access to quality healthcare for all, and operates with diversity, equity and inclusion at top of mind.

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CompSource Mutual Insurance Company

OKC AND TULSA A premier workers’ compensation provider for over 85 years, CompSource was voted Company of the Year in 2022 by BIGiOK. CompSource handles everything from safety and loss prevention to underwriting, premium audit support and claims, working in construction, agriculture, oil and gas, auto repair and more.

Delta Dental

STATEWIDE Delta Dental provides a comprehensive network of dentists nationwide, helping clients get connected to quick, personalized service. Delta Dental’s core purpose is the advancement of the oral health of its customers, partners and consumers, and currently serves more than 80 million Americans.

GlobalHealth

OKC AND TULSA With a commitment to quality care and optimum health for the community, GlobalHealth harbors a large network of providers, pharmacies, hospitals and clinics. With the belief that health insurance doesn’t have to be a headache, GlobalHealth begins benefits on day one of coverage and provides a variety of money saving benefits.

INSURICA

STATEWIDE At INSURICA, it’s not just about individual insurance policies – instead, the team gets to know your business structure and builds a comprehensive insurance management program just for you. Alongside a variety of insurance offerings, INSURICA provides additional client services like claims management, loss control and alternative risk.

Mid-Continent Group

STATEWIDE Mid-Continent Group has been providing specialty commercial insurance for over 75 years, with values that include leading by example, collaboration and communication. Utilizing a relationship-driven approach, Mid-Continent offers solutions that address the unique needs of agents and the insured.

Rich & Cartmill

OKC AND TULSA One of the largest privately held independent insurance agencies in the country, Rich & Cartmill began in 1922 and has remained committed to assisting

both individuals and commercial organizations in finding insurance options that work for them. Industries served range from construction to technology, education and retail.

State Farm

STATEWIDE In business for over 100 years, State Farm operates with the mission to help people manage AAON the risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected and realize their dreams. State Farm is also committed to building environmentally sustainable and resilient futures through a variety of local neighborhood programs.

LAW FIRM Barrow & Grimm

TULSA The attorneys at Barrow & Grimm specialize in everything from business litigation to estate planning, tax law and surety law. Established in 1976, the firm employs 25 attorneys, many of whom have received a variety of accolades for their work. No matter the case, all attorneys remain sensitive to the individual circumstances of each client.

Calvert Law Firm

OKC The business and transactional attorneys of Calvert Law Firm are a client’s partner through the entire legal process. Practice areas range from appeals to catastrophic injury, insurance bad faith and trial preparation. The experienced litigators and seasoned advisors meet deadlines, remain honest with clients and get deals done.

Hammons, Hurst and Associates

OKC Handling a variety of employment law cases, Hammons, Hurst and Associates has a proven track record of holding employers accountable for unfair treatment. The firm is committed to making the workplace better for everyone, and takes pride in its prestigious reputation for high quality client services and representation.

The Handley Law Center

EL RENO The team at Handley believes each client has a future worth fighting for – and goes above and beyond in a variety of personal injury, criminal defense and divorce/family law cases. Alongside compassionate service, Handley attorneys have won numerous awards for their work and reached a variety of successful verdicts and settlements.

Jones Gotcher NABHOLZ CONSTRUCTION CORP.

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TULSA Established in 1964, Jones Gotcher practices in a variety of areas, including civil litigation, construc-

tion and surety law, family law and business transactions. With a client-focused and results-driven culture, Jones Gotcher is a mid-sized firm, meaning they have the capabilities of a larger firm without sacrificing personalized attention for each client.

Latham Keele Lehman Ratcliff Carter & Clarke P.C.

OKC AND TULSA In business for over 20 years, Latham Keele Lehman has tackled over 300 jury trials, with a variety of successful verdicts, settlements and appeals.

Practice areas range from medical malpractice defense to real estate, labor and employment, and workers’ compensation, and the firm represents everyone from large corporations to small businesses to individuals.

McIntyre Law

OKC The personal injury attorneys from McIntyre Law bring over 90 years of experience to each case, and are on clients’ sides from start to finish. To date, the firm has won $250 million in compensation for clients, and can handle anything from motorcycle/ car accidents to drug liability and defective medical devices.

Stange Law Firm

OKC AND TULSA At Stange Law Firm, the experienced attorneys help clients rebuild their lives, tackling cases ranging from family law to divorce, child custody and family violence. Providing caring and compassionate counsel, Stange grew from a one-office firm in 2007 to a multi-firm powerhouse serving multiple states.

MANUFACTURING AND INDUSTRIAL SUPPLY AAON

TULSA Innovation and energy efficiency are cornerstones at AAON, a leading commercial and industrial HVAC solutions manufacturer. Since 1988, the company has been focused on helping to create a cleaner and more sustainable future with their customerspecific solutions and dedication to an inclusive culture.

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Since 1973, Alert360 has helped customers protect what matters most with a variety of smart security products and services in home automation, home security and cameras/video. In Tulsa, the company operates a TMA 5 Diamond designated alarm monitoring and customer service center.

Hobby Lobby

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Airgas

STATEWIDE Airgas, in operation since 1982 and with over 500 acquisitions under its belt, is a premium supplier of industrial, medical and specialty gasses, as well as hardgoods and related products. The company serves over a million customers, helping to advance their business performance with reliable products and services.

Brainerd Chemical Company, Inc.

TULSA Leading the way in chemical manufacturing and distribution, Brainerd is privately held and has grown to become one of the largest independent providers of chemicals and related services in the U.S. Pillars of culture at Brainerd include stewardship, safety and service.

Delco Electric, Inc.

OKC Providing top-tier commercial electrical services to the OKC metro and surrounding areas, Delco’s employees have decades worth of experience in the industry.

Services include energy savings consultations, service calls, electrical value engineering and design-build/ design-assist projects.

Ditch Witch

PERRY Operating with the simple understanding that their clients’ time is money, Ditch Witch is a premier manufacturer of innovative and effective underground utility construction equipment. The company has won a variety of accolades for its work, including the Community Impact Award at the Underground Construction Awards.

Hilti

OKC AND TULSA Specializing in the development and manufacture of products for construction, building maintenance and energy, Hilti was founded in 1941 as a small family start-up. Now, Hilti North America employs approximately 4,000 highly trained team members, offering careers in everything from software development to sales and engineering.

Kimray, Inc.

OKC Producing oil and gas control equipment since 1948, Kimray serves upstream, midstream and international markets. The company, a three-time recipient of Okla64

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homa Business Ethics Consortium’s Compass Award, operates with a commitment to relationships, products, service and the future of its company and clients.

STATEWIDE Hobby Lobby began in 1970 as a miniature picture frame company. Today, the company has over 900 stores and is the largest privately owned arts-and-craft retailer in the world, employing over 43,000 people.

The company is committed to providing exceptional selection and value.

Oklahoma State University Foundation

Locke Supply Co.

STILLWATER The private fundraising arm of Oklahoma State University, the OSU Foundation operates with the mission to unite donor passions with university priorities to elevate the impact and status of the university at large.

The organization’s values include authenticity, partnership, integrity, intentionality and service.

Matrix Service Co.

Chinowth & Cohen Realtors

OKC Employee-owned Locke Supply Co. is a plumbing, electrical and HVAC distributor. Founded in 1955 on a shoestring budget, Locke now has 199 locations to best service its clients. Services include project management from order entry to final delivery, wire management and project staging.

TULSA Matrix is a premier provider of procurement, construction, maintenance and turnaround services to the energy and industrial markets. The company runs on one goal: deliver the best products and services possible, evidenced in its zero incident safety culture and commitment to execution excellence.

Sigma Stretch Corp.

TULSA Sigma Stretch Corp. creates hand, machine and specialty films, as well as agricultural products, with a focus on innovation and education. The company utilizes its proprietary Rite-Gauging process that takes a holistic view of its clients’ total packaging operation.

Webco Industries

SAND SPRINGS Operating as North America’s foremost provider of innovating tubing solutions, Webco is a technologydriven company that focuses on efficiency, quality and service. Webco’s culture, spearheaded by founder Bill Weber, is built upon high-character employees who create value for customers, shareholders and communities.

Zeeco

BROKEN ARROW From industrial burners to flare systems and thermal oxidizers, Zeeco has been redefining combustion equipment for over 40 years. Alongside being an innovative company focused on the future, Zeeco is dedicated to community impact through outreach programs, charitable events and disaster relief efforts.

MISCELLANEOUS Alert360 TULSA

REAL ESTATE OKC AND TULSA Chinowth & Cohen – which now boasts 15 Oklahoma offices and over 700 associates – was begun in 2004 with just 25 employees. Associates at the company thrive through varied resources and training programs, and philanthropic efforts are paramount to the C&C brand, evidenced in a variety of volunteer offers and outreach events.

Coldwell Banker

STATEWIDE For over 100 years, home has been the purpose at Coldwell Banker, which now boasts offices in 40 countries, employing over 100,000. Utilizing a powerful network of agents with world-class guidance, Coldwell Banker can help any client looking to buy or sell; the company has generated $295 billion total in sales volumes.

Engel & Völkers

OKC AND TULSA For over 40 years, Engel & Völkers has specialized in the brokerage of premium residential property and commercial real estate. With over 15,000 agents working for the company worldwide, core competencies at Engel & Völkers include consultancy, sales and leaseholds.

Keller Williams Realty

STATEWIDE At Keller Williams, buyers and sellers alike will receive guidance at every step of their real estate journey.

Knowledgeable professionals utilize talent, drive, innovation and service to procure impressively high sales volumes. The mission at Keller Williams is to build careers worth having, businesses worth owning, lives worth living, experiences worth giving and legacies worth celebrating.

OSU FOUNDATION

McGraw Realtors

STATEWIDE Working to make real estate simple for over 85 years, McGraw Realtors is one of the nation’s fast-growing real estate companies.

No matter your need, McGraw Realtors has it handled – from relocation services to the buying and selling of residential homes, farms, ranches, land, commercial properties, vacation homes and lake houses.

OSU Foundation WORK WORK FOR FOR US! US! The The Oklahoma Oklahoma State State University University Foundation Foundation is is looking looking for for passionate, passionate, motivated motivated and and creative creative professionals professionals to to join join our our team team to to advance advance Oklahoma Oklahoma State State University’s University’s priorities. priorities. We We foster foster aa fun fun work work environment environment that that values values authenticity, authenticity, integrity integrity and and service service while while offering offering growth growth opportunities, opportunities, work-life work-life balance, balance, flexibility flexibility and and aa competitive competitive benefits benefits package. package.

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TECHNOLOGY InterWorks

TULSA With people at the center, InterWorks is a tech consultancy that delivers premier services and expertise, alongside a human touch to data and technology. InterWorks also has a philanthropic arm – IW Gives Back – and all employees are given two paid days a year to spend at a chosen nonprofit.

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Paycom

OKC Paycom creates comprehensive HR and payroll technology, offering a single software for a company’s entire workforce. With Paycom’s offerings, businesses are able to acquire and manage talent, and handle payroll, human resources and time/labor management. To date, Paycom has served over 36,000 clients.

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TOURISM/ RECREATION Discover Durant

DURANT Funded by the Durant Tourism Economic Development Authority, Discover Durant handles all tourism-related efforts for the city. Promoting everything from arts and culture offerings to retail shops, landmarks and general history, Discover Durant helps to educate the masses about the city.

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Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation

STATEWIDE The Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department strives to educate the public on the people, places, events, culture and history of Oklahoma. Additionally, the department conserves and protects park lands, oversees maintenance of the state’s lodges and golf courses, and functions in an advisory capacity to state leaders.

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CITIZEN POTAWATOMI NATION

Poteau Chamber of Commerce

POTEAU Dubbed as “positively Poteau,” the Poteau Chamber is tourists’ go-to spot for literature, business information, area attractions and history surrounding the town. Poteau is one of the fastest growing towns in southeast Oklahoma, and the Chamber works diligently to continue that trend.

Visit Bartlesville

BARTLESVILLE With a mission to advance the local economy and improve the community’s quality of life, Visit Bartlesville promotes all tourism offerings of the city. The end goal is to market Bartlesville as a premier destination for everything from leisure travel and film production to conventions and special events.

Visit Broken Arrow

BROKEN ARROW Bringing greater tourism numbers to, and enhancing the economic opportunities of, the city of Broken Arrow is the mission at Visit BA. The company markets a variety of attractions – from outdoor oases like the nationally recognized Ray Harral Nature Park to shopping and dining, hotels and conference spaces.

Visit Claremore

CLAREMORE Promoting Claremore’s rich history and promising future, Visit Claremore hosts a variety of events and enacts numerous marketing strategies to enhance the city’s opportunity and educate tourists. The entity bolsters the Claremore economy via promotion of hotels, museums, amenities, attractions, shops and parks.

Visit Oklahoma City

OKC The goal at Visit OKC is to promote the state’s capital as a first-class visitor destination. Alongside these promotional efforts, Visit OKC contributes to the economic well-being of the city and its citizens through public and private partnerships, as well as quality-of-life projects and improvements.

Visit Ponca City

PONCA CITY Marketing this northeastern Oklahoma city as a perfect destination for state-of-the-art museums, outstanding historical architecture, numerous murals, art exhibits, retail shops and dining excursions, Visit Ponca City aims to improve the lives of its citizens and the state at large.

Visit Tulsa

TULSA Helmed by Tulsa Regional Tourism, Visit Tulsa offers tourists and locals alike a variety of helpful resources on the city – from attractions to local events, restaurants and places to stay. The mission at Visit Tulsa is simple: to attract people to Tulsa and bring diverse economic vitality to the region.

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TRANSPORTATION Melton Truck Lines

TULSA A trucker-focused company, Melton Truck Lines employs over 1,400 of the top drivers in the industry and has over 70 years of experience in the field.

With an emphasis on taking care of its employees, Melton offers a variety of benefits, including career advancement, bonuses and being passengerfriendly.

TRIBAL ENTERPRISE Cherokee Nation

CATOOSA The Cherokee Nation – established in 1839 and with over 450,000 tribal citizens – operates with the mission of protecting its inherent sovereignty, preserving its values, culture and language, and improving quality of life for all citizens. The Nation oversees Cherokee Nation Businesses, with enterprises in hospitality and cultural and economic development, with subsidiaries like Cherokee Nation Entertainment and Cherokee Federal.

Chickasaw Nation

ADA The Chickasaw Nation, dedicated to the preservation of family, community and heritage, encourages and supports infrastructure for strong businesses through its various enterprises and its Small Business Development Center. The latter provides prospective and existing Chickasaw small businesses with counseling, training and specialized services.

Choctaw Nation

DURANT With over 212,000 tribal members and over 12,000 employees, the Choctaw Nation is the third-largest Indian nation in the U.S. with a mission to provide opportunities for growth and prosperity. The Na-

tion’s Division of Commerce generates substantial revenue to accelerate the success of the tribe.

Citizen Potawatomi Nation

SHAWNEE Representing over 38,000 tribal members, Citizen Potawatomi Nation has a story that reaches back before written history. Today, CPN oversees a variety of tribal enterprises that provide valuable funding to the state – allowing citizens to create a substantial economic impact and further improve the prosperity of the Nation. Business enterprises range from recreation to dining, gaming and banking.

Muscogee Nation

OKMULGEE With nearly 100,000 citizens, the Muscogee Nation is the fourth largest tribe in the U.S. The Nation operates a variety of enterprises, including cultural tourism, gaming, business and higher learning. The Nation’s Department of Commerce aims to foster, promote and develop foreign and domestic business.

Osage Nation

PAWHUSKA The Osage Nation, a resilient and enduring sovereign nation, operates with values that bolster education, economy, civic engagement, culture, health and natural resources. The Nation owns and operates numerous business enterprises that increase the Nation’s prosperity and add jobs to the state.

Seminole Nation

WEWOKA The Seminole Nation is dedicated to preserving its heritage through language retention programs and a historical preservation committee. Alongside a variety of business enterprises, the Nation offers a bevy of services to its citizens, including childcare, community development, environmental health and more.

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Festival of Angels

Through Dec 30 Various locations, Ponca City This drive-through animated Christmas lights event includes over 300 displays in three locations. Grab a map at the Pioneer Woman Statue and stroll through fantasy gardens and the Lake Ponca Park angel displays.

Philbrook Festival

‘Tis the season to bundle up, grab some hot chocolate (and some pals!) and venture to one of hundreds of festive events around Oklahoma. We provide a comprehensive guide to holiday happenings, from performances to light displays, ice rinks, community gatherings and pop-up markets. We hope it makes the season that much merrier and brighter!

By Mary Willa Allen

LET IT SHINE

Through Dec. 17 Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve, Bartlesville Ride a wagon or stroll on foot through this display, which offers more than 750,000 bulbs. Other goodies include live entertainment, visits with Santa and holiday refreshments.

WOOLAROC WONDERLAND OF LIGHTS, BARTLESVILLE PHOTO COURTESY WOOLAROC

Myriad & Bright

Through Dec. 24 Myriad Botanical Gardens, Oklahoma City The Crystal Bridge Conservatory is adorned with poinsettias and lighted displays you won’t want to miss. You can also enjoy a 25-foot-tall Christmas tree, refreshments, live music and carousel rides.

Festival of Lights

Through Dec. 29 Regional Park, Ardmore Take your pick between 150 animated displays in BOTANIC GARDEN OF LIGHTS, TULSA PHOTO COURTESY TULSA BOTANIC GARDEN

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OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2023

Botanic Garden of Lights

Through Dec 30 Tulsa Botanic Garden Beautiful garden displays are accented by tasty goodies like warm drinks, s’mores kits and food trucks. You can also add your wish to the Wishing Tree, enjoy a selfie booth and stroll at your own pace.

Fantasy Land of Lights

Perhaps the most classic holiday activity – walking or drive-through light displays – can be found in virtually every corner of the state this month. Here’s a smattering of offerings if you’re looking to let it shine.

Woolaroc Wonderland of Lights

Through Dec 30, 2023 Philbrook Museum of Art, Tulsa This annual holiday tradition includes tens of thousands of lights adoring the front and back gardens of the museum. Additionally, the festival includes holiday-themed goodies like special exhibitions, a LEGO Villa and self-guided activities.

Through Dec. 30 Johnstone Park, Bartlesville This drive-through display includes music, a synchronized tunnel, animated displays and thousands of bulbs decorating the park each night.

Chickasha Festival of Light

Through Dec. 31 Shannon Springs Park, Chickasha Featuring over 4 million twinkling lights in Shannon Springs Park, Chickasha’s Festival of Light has drive-through displays and a computer-animated show synchronized to holiday tunes. At the crux is the 172-foot Christmas tree, accented by horsedrawn carriages, visits with Santa Claus, ice skating and a carousel.

OKC Zoo Safari Lights

this 1.5-mile drive through. As one of the largest light displays in southern Oklahoma, the Festival of Lights offers free admission, with donations appreciated.

Through Jan. 1 Oklahoma City Zoo & Botanical Garden Larger-than-life light displays showcase 60+ wildlife-themed light sculptures, viewable on a driving tour through the zoo. You can also enjoy festive treats, kids activities and weekend visits with Santa. Online reservations are required.

CHICKASHA FESTIVAL OF LIGHT, CHICKASHA

RHEMA LIGHTS DISPLAY, BROKEN ARROW

PHOTO COURTESY THE FESTIVAL OF LIGHT

Bixby’s Winter Wonderland

Through Jan. 1 Charley Young Event Park, Bixby Perfect for the whole family, the Winter Wonderland is replete with a variety of lighted displays, plus an ice rink.

PHOTO COURTESY RHEMA BIBLE CHURCH

RACE’s Hip Hop Nutcracker

THE NUTCRACKER, OKC BALLET PHOTO COURTESY OKC BALLET

Dec. 8-10 OCCC Visual & Performing Arts Center Theater, Oklahoma City

Oklahoma City Ballet presents: The Nutcracker

Edmond Electric’s Luminance: An Enchanted Stroll

Dec. 8-17 Civic Center Music Hall, Oklahoma City

Through Jan. 1 Mitch Park, Edmond This walk-through holiday light display includes a 1/4 mile stroll through Mitch Park, plus glittering lights, 3D displays and picturesque photo-ops.

American Theatre Company presents: A Christmas Carol Dec. 8-23 Tulsa PAC

Rhema Christmas Lights

Through Jan. 1 Rhema Bible Church, Broken Arrow You can expect three million lights synchronized to Christmas music across 110 acres. Add to the magic with a horse-drawn carriage, or venture to the Rhema Park bridge, which alone has 90,000 lights.

Garden of Lights

Through Jan 1 Honor Heights Park, Muskogee The Garden of Lights combines 1.2 million shimmering lights, 130 acres of trees, rose and azalea bushes, and displays of deer, squirrels and birds.

Holiday in the Park

Through Jan. 2 Elmer Thomas Park, Lawton Colorful lights, ornaments and cut-outs can be found throughout the Elmer Thomas Park in Lawton. Take a ride in a horse-drawn carriage, drive your own car or walk through the park to enjoy all of the cheer.

THE NUTCRACKER, TULSA BALLET PHOTO COURTESY TULSA BALLET

Tulsa Ballet presents: The Nutcracker Dec. 9-23 Tulsa PAC

HOLIDAY PERFORMANCES Escape the cold and immerse yourself in the beauty of performing arts this season.

Tulsa Symphony presents: How the Grinch Stole Christmas Dec. 1 Tulsa PAC

Pollard Theatre presents: A Territorial Christmas Carol Through Dec. 23 Pollard Theatre, Guthrie

Lyric Theatre presents: A Christmas Carol Through Dec. 24 Lyric at the Plaza, Oklahoma City A CHRISTMAS CAROL, LYRIC THEATRE, OKC PHOTO COURTESY LYRIC THEATRE

OKC Philharmonic presents: A Very Merry Pops Dec. 1-2 Civic Center Music Hall, Oklahoma City

Trans-Siberian Orchestra in Concert

Dec 7 Paycom Center, Oklahoma City

Oklahoma Shakespeare on the Paseo presents: Jane Austen’s Christmas Cracker Dec. 7-23 2920 Paseo, Oklahoma City

DECEMBER 2023 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

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ON THE ICE Lace up your skates and get to skatin’ at these festive rinks.

Tulsa metro:

Crest on Ice

Through Jan. 2 Downtown Tulsa by the BOK Center

Devon Ice Rink

Winterfest

Yukon Ice Rink

Through Jan. 7 2550 Mt. Williams Dr., Norman

Through Jan. 1 500 W. Vandament Ave., Yukon

Through Jan. 7 418 S. Main St.

Through Jan. 29 Myriad Botanical Gardens

OKC metro:

Around the state:

Through Jan. 15 Mitch Park, Edmond

Through Jan. 7 301 S. Independence Ave, Enid

BA Ice Rink

Edmond Ice Rink

Holidays on Ice

WINTERFEST, TULSA

DEVON ICE RINK, OKC

PHOTO COURTESY WINTERFEST

PHOTO COURTESY DOWNTOWN IN DECEMBER

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COME TOGETHER So you’ve looked at the lights, gone to the performances and skated the day away. If you’re still hungry for more, we have you covered.

Saints Santa Run

Dec. 2 1000 N. Lee Ave., Oklahoma City Walk, jog, run or skip to the Saints Santa Run in OKC. This race includes 1 mile runs, 5ks and a free Santa Claus Kids’ Dash. Make sure to dress up and enjoy the after-party, with live music, face painting, a photo booth, and a build-your-own-trail-mix bar.

Tulsa Christmas Parade

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OKC Community Chanukah Festival

Dec. 10 Scissortail Park Hosted by the Chabad Community Center, the Chanukah Festival will include a giant menorah lighting, live music, kosher fair food and booths of carnival entertainment.

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Dec. 9 Downtown You’ll see a combo of floats, bands, drill teams, dancers and lights at this beloved Tulsa tradition.

Bundle up and venture out to see the giant helium balloon – escorted by balloon wranglers!

PHOTO COURTESY DOWNTOWN IN DECEMBER

11/8/23 9:48 AM

Holiday in the Ark

Through Dec. 17 Endangered Ark Foundation, Hugo Visit the Endangered Ark Foundation in Hugo for a meet and greet with Santa, Mrs. Claus, elves, the Grinch and, of course, the elephants! You’ll even be able to feed and interact with these friendly animals.

Christmas on the Farm

Through Dec. 17 Red Bird Farm, Enid Find one-of-a-kind gifts, pick the perfect tree and snag a homemade wreath at Christmas on the Farm. Don’t forget to sip on hot cocoa!

Santa’s Ozark Mountain Village

Through Dec 23 Har-Ber Village Museum, Grove Get into the Victorian mood at Santa’s Ozark Mountain Village, where the ambiance is centered around late 1800’s and early 1900’s style. You’ll experience carolers, visits from Santa, fresh baked cookies and plenty of seasonal gifts. Don’t skip the gingerbread house workshop!

The Polar Express

Through Dec. 27 Oklahoma Railway Museum, Oklahoma City All aboard the most cheerful ride in the city – the Polar Express. Once on the train, you can enjoy hot chocolate, the reading of a Christmas story, cookies and even take home a goodie bag.

Red Earth Treefest

Through Dec. 29 BancFirst Tower, Oklahoma City View a variety of Christmas trees created and decorated by Oklahoma Native American tribes during the annual Red Earth Treefest.

Limo Holiday Lights Tours

Through Dec 30 Oklahoma City If you’re looking to stay warm but keep the merry spirit alive, you can schedule two-hour tours of the city’s lights via limo!

Depot Green Christmas Train

Through Dec. 31 205 Elgin St., Muskogee Choo-choo! Step aboard the Depot Green Christmas Train for a short ride, offering hot chocolate, popcorn and other sweet treats.

PHILBROOK FESTIVAL, TULSA PHOTO COURTESY PHILBROOK

Route 66 Christmas Chute

HOLIDAY POP-UP SHOPS, OKC

PHOTO COURTESY DOWNTOWN IN DECEMBER

Through Dec. 31 101 E. Dewey Ave, Sapulpa Downtown Sapulpa is completely transformed into a winter wonderland during the Route 66 Christmas Chute.

Block after block of downtown is decorated in a different theme – so you can shop in style!

Winterfest

Through Jan. 2 Downtown Tulsa The spirit of the season can be found in downtown Tulsa with an outdoor ice rink, one of Oklahoma’s tallest outdoor Christmas trees, horse-drawn carriage rides, live entertainment and holiday light displays.

Downtown in December

Through Feb. 4 Downtown Oklahoma City You’ll enter a holiday haze during Downtown in December in OKC. Enjoy everything from outdoor ice skating to snow tubing, free water taxi excursions, and beautifully lit areas with plenty of holiday cheer for the entire family.

If you’re looking to find unique gifts created by locals, the following events and stores can supply exactly what you need.

Dec. 3 OKC Farmers Public Market Teeming with 50 hand-selected vendors, the Sleigh Bells Market offers a variety of vintage and local handmade goods.

Through Dec. 17 399 N.W. Tenth St., Oklahoma City Step into this temporary geodesic dome city that touts a fun, stress-free way to kick off the holiday season. You can enjoy a rotating line-up of small business vendors, along with Christmas trees to take home!

PAMBE Ghana’s Global Market

Dec 1-2 OKC Fairgrounds Pavilion Handmade arts and crafts can be found around every corner at the Santa Market. Offerings include jewelry, home decor, hand-painted ornaments and other wares from 150 vendors.

Christkindlmarkt

Sleigh Bells Market

Holiday Pop-Up Shops

SHOPPING GALORE The Santa Market

American Indian artists and craftsmen selling original paintings and sewing creations, the market offers handmade, traditional clothing and one-of-akind beadwork.

Through Dec. 24 617 W. Sheridan Ave., Oklahoma City This seasonal fair trade shop offers goods crafted in a diverse range of countries. Choose between Guatemalan hacky sacks, wool hats from Nepal or a Peruvian Nativity. No matter what you choose, it will surely be unique!

Dec 1-3 GAST Center, Tulsa Held by the German American Society of Tulsa, Christkindlmarkt is a uniquely European shopping experience that “aims to bring a true German old world holiday shopping experience to the Sooner state.”

Alongside authentic collective and memorabilia, kids can enjoy the puppet shows and hopefully catch a glimpse of St. Nikolaus.

Native American Christmas Market

Dec 2-3 Glenpool Conference Center You’ll find art, music, food and culture all wrapped into one this season at the Native American Christmas Market. Featuring

LIGHTS ON BROADWAY, OKC

PHOTO COURTESY DOWNTOWN IN DECEMBER

DECEMBER 2023 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

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TASTE

FOOD, DRINK AND OTHER PLEASURES

Sights, Sips and Sustenance

Atop the new Brut Hotel, Soma offers tropical American fare with beautiful views.

I

Brunch goodies at Soma include classics like avocado toast (above), alongside bowls like the Barge (below) – with scrambled eggs, fried potatoes, black beans, greens and your choice of veggies or pulled pork.

f you met Andrew Aguero any time within the past year and a half, you couldn’t fail to notice his excitement. He’d just been signed on as director of operations of the Brut Hotel, the lavish new dwelling space created in a hulking apartment building just south of downtown.

They wanted a hotel focused on health and wellness, Aguero told me. There’s a store downstairs selling fresh local milk, a spa offering massage and aromatherapy in a building next door and, on weekend mornings, meditation and yoga classes in the gardens.

Aguero had been a restaurant manager for years, both here and in Texas, so he focused his attention on the rooftop restaurant and bar.

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OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2023

Photos by Stephanie Phillips

“The rooftop bar is going to be a showstopper,” he gushed on social media many months ago. “Stunning custom woodwork creates intimate dining spaces for memorable experiences.”

And, unlike much of what you see on social media, what he said became a reality.

Furniture and wall hangings in bright yet neutral colors provide a smart and somewhat Scandinavian ambiance. All this is backdrop for the stunning view. The dining room is on the ninth floor and overlooks a section of Tulsa that, from above, looks like a verdant forest. There’s a back room (one of those intimate dining spaces) where the trees come right up to the glass and you feel like you’re in a treehouse. From the front windows, visible from many of the tables as well as from the leather covered seats at the long bar, it’s as if you’re gliding over a lovely woodland, and the view goes on for miles.

The north side has a view of downtown’s skyscrapers, and if you walk out on the patio, full of cushioned lounge chairs, you’ll see the river.

You might come for the view, but you’ll stay for the food. Veteran chef Matt Shipley, who has worked at a long list of Tulsa eateries including Rusty Crane and Mr. Nice Guys, has designed a short yet memorable menu, working in conjunction with Aguero and Rob Stewart of Chimera Cafe.

They spent months and months workshopping concepts in Chimera’s kitchen, sometimes running “test kitchens” where they’d try out recipes on eager diners. The concept, Aguero says, is tropical American.

“We’ll take techniques, spices, recipes from the Caribbean, Middle East and South and East Asia, and make it approachable, give it a sense of American familiarity,” he says.

You can spend all day eating at Soma.

There’s breakfast in the morning (brunch on weekends), with treats like chilaquiles, breakfast bowls and tacos, avocado toast and blueberry pineapple pancakes with coconut syrup. Lunch features salads, sandwiches and a daily vegetable curry.

At dinner, you can get small dishes such as kimchi, pomegranate hummus and stuffed marinated peppers, followed by a more substantial entree, such as steak frites or za’atar rubbed chicken breast. The salmon really is a showstopper; seared and glazed with a rich, sweet Korean gochujiang sauce, the dish is served with grilled bok choy and cabbage and coconut broth. The bright lollipop colors of the orange salmon, purple cabbage and green bok choy are arranged to look like a flower, and real flowers provide a garnish. The dish is so beautiful, it might even distract your attention from the view.

BRIAN SCHWARTZ

TA S T E | LO C AL F L AVOR S

Always More Room at the Table

The ownership of OKC-based restaurant 74 believes “there’s always room to pull up another chair” at their restaurant.

Here, you’ll find elevated classics, a friendly waitstaff and a variety of beers on tap. With an atmosphere of relaxation, 74 will surely have the game you’re trying to watch queued up, along with bites served up by chef Beau Stephenson.

The restaurant presents brunch on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Must-try specials include the Mid-Morning Poutine, replete with crispy fries, white cheddar, brown gravy and bacon and sausage, complemented by agave nectar Hollandaise sauce. If you’d prefer to go the sweet route, enjoy the Chef ’s French Toast, which rotates its flavor weekly. Other goodies include a brunch burger, turkey hash and B.L.T. Pub favorites can be found on the restaurant’s lunch and dinner menu. Start out with the pregame dip, cheesy and delicious with shredded chicken and jalapenos, or the spring rolls with sweet chili glaze. Venture forward with a handful of salad options, along with soup of the day selections including spicy French onion, potato and pork verde. Sandwiches range from spicy hot sausage to pork and mango, and the pizza section includes options for meat lovers, veggie fans and those in between. If you’re looking to get a bit fancier, 74 serves up filets, braised chuck roast and grilled salmon.

With all these goodies, you’ll surely need a beverage to wash it all down. Luckily, 74 presents six signature cocktails, along with a wide selection of both local and national beers and a bevy of wine options.

Photo courtesy 74

Something for Everyone

Looking for your next hot pot fix? Look no further than 100C Grill and Hot Pot in Tulsa.

But first – what is hot pot? It’s a Chinese-style of dining where a variety of ingredients are cooked in a simmering pot of broth, right at your table. With a focus on ensuring all customers get to enjoy food exactly as they like it, hot pot is ideal for even the pickiest of eaters.

At 100C, there’s a range of homemade soup bases, ingredients and sauces that can appeal to meat-lovers, vegetarians and vegans. Bases range from chicken broth to beef tallow, miso soup and veggie broth. Beef and poultry options include premium beef, chicken breast, quail eggs and teriyaki beef and chicken. Other cookable options include pork, lamb, shrimp, tofu, crab and mushrooms. Don’t forget to include add-ons like cabbage, potato, asparagus, onion and taro, with noodle options like ramen, udon and noodle knots.

Before you venture into hot pot territory, enjoy an appetizer like dim sum, chicken egg rolls, spring rolls and crab wontons. If you’d prefer to stray away from hot pot and have the chefs cook your dish up, there are a variety of entree options like sesame chicken, fried rice (with add-ons including egg, chicken, beef, shrimp and spam), along with lo mein and pepper beef. If none of that whets your whistle, you can even build your own noodle soup bowl!

Round out your meal with a Chinese milk tea or herbal tea, alongside desserts like sesame balls and Asian sugar donuts.

Photo courtesy 100C

MARY WILLA ALLEN DECEMBER 2023 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

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TA S T E | CHEF CHAT

A Culinary Destiny

Summit Club’s Michael Wilson has been cooking since he was “tall enough to see above the counter,” he says.

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OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2023

Photos by Stephanie Phillips

M

ichael Wilson was born to be a chef. This was apparent early.

“As soon as I got tall enough to see above the counter,” he recalls, “I started cooking. My grandfather taught me to make gravy, my grandma taught me biscuits, the whole family jumped in and taught me. When I was seven, I made an entire dinner for them. I’ve always known I wanted to be a chef.”

Wilson was born and raised in Fayetteville, Ark., and as soon as it was legal, he got a job at Braum’s. Starting at 16, he worked every position from grill to cashier.

He never went to cooking school, though he did take one or two classes. And it’s a good thing he did, because he met his wife, also a chef, at one of them.

He did get a degree in restaurant management from the University of Arkansas, and later, also started work at an elegant local restaurant, Ella’s Table. He needed a job and signed on as a dishwasher. The man who hired him? Bill Lyle – now Summit Club’s executive chef.

Back then, Ella’s was, Wilson recalls, “as much fine dining as northwest Arkansas could handle. It was a varied menu, so I was exposed to many techniques and cultures.” (The menu is still quite varied. Their current offerings include dishes like panseared duck with cherry gastrique.)

There, he learned a lot.

“Bill’s a great teacher,” Wilson says, “though he’s a total perfectionist. I worked with many good, talented folks who were willing to teach a very young chef, and that’s a rare thing.”

Lyle went on to be the chef at Eleven, the luxurious restaurant inside Crystal Bridges Museum. Wilson then took his place as executive chef at Ella’s.

Later on, around 2017, he and his wife started a food truck serving down home Southern cuisine. South in Your Mouth

Michael Wilson, originally from Arkansas, has worked at Summit Club for five years, serving up items including the French-cut red deer chops.

they called it. Lyle, by then, had become executive chef at the Summit Club.

“I visited him in Tulsa and he offered me a job,” he says. “I shut down the food truck and never looked back.”

He is currently sous-chef, the No. 2 job.

And what’s it like, working at the Summit Club?

“It’s incredible!” Wilson says with enthusiasm. “It’s like traveling the world

every day. We have flavors on the menu from every corner of the world. Some of the dishes are international in cooking technique, some because of ingredients, and sometimes the dishes themselves are from other lands. And not only that, but we have people from Peru, Taiwan, Guatemala and more. Its an eclectic group of people and I learn so much from them.”

Every day at Summit Club allows Wilson to stretch his culinary muscles.

“I’ve done a lot of jobs, and lately I’m in charge of dry-aging steaks in house,” he says.

“I also invent a lot of dishes, quite a bit of the regular dinner menu and a lot of specials.

I try never to do the same special twice.”

And what does he love most?

“I’ve been here five years last week and there’s never a dull moment,” he says. “You can never get bored here. I’ve always wanted to be a chef and it’s so cool to achieve my childhood dreams.”

BRIAN SCHWARTZ

To see Wilson’s deer chop recipe, visit okmag.com.

TA S T E | TA S T Y T ID BIT S

Christmas Cocktails

Want to spice things up at your next holiday party? Tired of the same old spiked eggnog? We’ve got a few ideas. (Oh, and for the kiddos and non-drinkers, any of these would be great sans spirits!)

Christmas Punch Mix rum, tart cherry and cranberry juices, simple syrup, seltzer water or ginger ale with spices like ginger and nutmeg. Fruity, tart and boozy, this is a win for those looking for a lighter option.

Boozy Hot Chocolate Whether you add rum, a cream liqueur or even tequila, spiked hot chocolate is a festive libation for anyone with a sweet tooth. If you’re in a pinch, hot chocolate mix works just fine – but consider creating your own if you have the time.

Irish Coffee A perfect after-dinner drink or brunch cocktail, an Irish coffee includes fresh brewed coffee, brown sugar, Irish whiskey and some whipped cream. Add a cream liqueur if you want it extra rich.

Cranberry Ginger Mimosa For those looking to keep things simple, the cranberry ginger mimosa is just the ticket. Top your bubbly of choice with cranberry juice, ginger beer and sugared cranberries. This one is especially great for big groups – pour it all in a punch bowl and go wild!

Tom & Jerry This one was created over two centuries ago in England, but it’s still just as enjoyable today. Combine eggs, dark rum and vanilla extract with boiling water, cognac and whole milk. It’ll warm you up in no time!

Top Dishes

While someone will probably look at you funny if you eat anything other than turkey on Thanksgiving, Christmas comes with a bit more leeway as it pertains to the mains, sides and desserts.

Which do you think reigns supreme in each of these categories? Does your family have a unique culinary tradition? Tell us on our Instagram – @oklahoma_mag!

Entree: Prime rib Roast turkey Barbecue Honey-glazed ham Beef Wellington Roast duck or goose Pork loin

Biscuits Cornbread Macaroni and cheese Sweet potato casserole Green beans Scalloped potatoes Dessert: Christmas cookies Pie Gingerbread Christmas tree brownies

Sides: Stuffing Cranberry sauce Mashed potatoes

Holiday Sweet Treats

If you’re aiming to hop in the kitchen with family and friends this season, or just need to bring a sweet treat to a gathering, try the following: Gingerbread Christmas cookies – from snowmen to trees and Santa Claus himself Apple pie Peppermint bundt cake Christmas tree cupcakes Pumpkin rolls Oreo balls Peppermint milkshakes

Decor Galore Looking to get into a festive mood whilst dining around town? You’ll find holiday cheer in spades at these restaurants: Roosevelt’s – Tulsa Bird and Bottle – Tulsa Ti Amo Ristorante Italiano – Tulsa Smoke – Tulsa Whisky Cake – OKC Vast – OKC Mary Eddy’s Dining Room – OKC Mickey Mantle’s Steakhouse – OKC

DECEMBER 2023 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

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WHERE & WHEN G R E AT T H I N G S TO D O I N O K L A H O M A

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

IN TULSA

PERFORMANCES

TULSA SYMPHONY PRESENTS: HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS Dec.

1 Tulsa PAC Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas is a celebration of the holiday spirit no home should be without! Why is the Grinch such a grouch? No one seems to know, until little Cindy Lou Who takes matters into her own hands. tulsasym-

phony.org

BROWN BAG IT: TULSA FESTIVAL RINGERS Dec.

6 Tulsa PAC Tulsa Festival Ringers Inc., Tulsa’s only auditioned community handbell ensemble, is more than a musical novelty; it is an ensemble of musicians who specialize in handbell ringing. tulsapac.com

AMERICAN THEATRE COMPANY PRESENTS: A CHRISTMAS CAROL Dec.

8-23 Tulsa PAC American Theatre Company’s presentation of A Christmas Carol has been delighting Tulsa audiences for over 46 years. tulsapac.com

TULSA BALLET PRESENTS: THE NUTCRACKER Dec.

8-23 Tulsa PAC Following two

years of record-breaking box office success, Val Caniparoli’s and Ma Cong’s energetic and colorful production of the holiday classic will delight Tulsa audiences of all ages. tulsabal-

let.org

SIGNATURE SYMPHONY PRESENTS: CHRISTMAS IN TULSA Dec. 15-16 TCC Van

Trease PACE Celebrate the emergence of the holiday season with Christmas in Tulsa, a concert that promises timeless holiday favorites for a magical night with friends and family. The Tulsa Opera Signature Chorale joins the Signature Symphony and the whole evening concludes with the annual holiday sing-a-long. signaturesymphony.org

CONCERTS

AMERICAN AQUARIUM Dec.

8 Cain’s Ballroom See the band with special guest Lance Roark. cainsballroom.com

MANNHEIM STEAMROLLER CHRISTMAS Dec. 9 River

Spirit Casino Resort Mannheim

PERFORMANCE

THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR

and Jeff Dunham on Dec. 28.

No matter your interests on the stage, December has a Around the state, enjoy: Pauls Valley Opry, Dec. 2 at performance for you. the Pauls Valley Junior High School Auditorium; MiKick off the month in Tulsa with How the Grinch ami Little Theatre’s presentation of A Christmas Carol Stole Christmas, presented by Tulsa Symphony. The through Dec. 3; and Pollard Theatre’s A Territorial event, which runs Dec. 1 at the Tulsa PAC, follows Christmas Carol through Dec. 23 in Guthrie. Winstar the beloved Christmas story with rousing live music.

World Casino in Thackerville also welcomes comediOther goodies at the PAC include the Festival Bell ans galore – Adam Sandler on Dec. 8 and Kevin Hart, Ringers on Dec. 6; and American Theatre Company’s A Tiffany Haddish and Chelsea Handler on Dec. 15.

Christmas Carol and Tulsa Ballet’s The Nutcracker from Dec. 8-23. Signature Symphony returns to the TCC Van Trease PACE on Dec. OKC BROADWAY 15-16 with its Christmas in Tulsa concert, too.

In OKC, the Civic Center Music Hall is the place to be for performances galore. Start with OKC Phil’s A Very Merry Pops on Dec. 1-2, followed by Canterbury Voices’ presentation of Handel’s Messiah on Dec. 3. OKC Ballet’s The Nutcracker returns Dec. 8-17, and you can finish out the month with OKC Broadway’s Tina – The Tina Turner Musical from Dec. 26-31. Paycom Center also beckons with Adam Sandler on Dec. 9; Ringling Bros. and Barnum Photo courtesy OKC Broadway and Bailey on Dec. 15-17;

1

lum, has announced his remaining sound composition created by Brad E. Rose with Philbrook’s 2023 tour dates to close out the annual leaf pile. philbrook.org year. bokcenter.com

67th year in the music industry, legendary singer Johnny Mathis’ sublime vocal approach to music eclipses passing fads and trends. riverspiritttulsa.com

JA RULE + ASHANTI Dec. 30 River Spirit Casino Resort Two

TRA Dec. 15 BOK Center Prepare for a musical journey like no other this winter as Trans-Siberian Orchestra (TSO) is set to spread rock vibes throughout its spectacular annual holiday tour. bokcen-

com

TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHES-

ter.com

FOR KING + COUNTRY Dec.

16 BOK Center The highly-antici-

pated annual holiday spectacle features an extraordinary production, blending festive visuals and stunning lighting with excellent tunes. bokcenter.com

legendary acts in their own right, but it’s together that this dynamos team shines when standing face to face and performing their classic hits, “Always On Time,” “Mesmerize” and “Wonderful.” riverspirittulsa.

ART

THE STATE OF CRAFT Dec. 1-Jan.

21 108 Contemporary The State of

Craft is open to all 108|Contemporary members and features the broad media utilized by members such as fiber, wood, ceramics, glass, metal, installations and more. 108contemporary.org

Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis has been America’s favorite holiday tradition for over 35 years! riverspirittulsa.com

PARKER MCCOLLUM Dec.

Casino Resort Celebrating his

chart-topping artist, Parker McCol- THE SOUND LEAVES Through Dec. 4 Philbrook Experience a

A JOHNNY MATHIS CHRISTMAS Dec. 14 River Spirit

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30 BOK Center Multi-Platinum

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2023

XFN 391 Dec. 8 River Spirit Casino WYETH: TEXTURED VISIONS OF Resort Xtreme Fight Night returns to the Cove with an action packed NATURE Through June 9, library. philbrook.org

year-end edition featuring the rising of MMA and kickboxing. riversuccessive generations, the boun- stars spirittulsa.com brook Every object holds a story. tifully creative Wyeth family closely Across time and cultures, makers observed the world around them to CRIMSON & CARDINAL CLASDec. 9 BOK Center The have embedded the objects they produce artworks that reflect their SIC University of Oklahoma and Univercreate with diverse histories. phil- textured visions of nature. philsity of Arkansas men’s basketball brook.org brook.org teams are headed back to BOK FLORAL RESILIENCE Through SLUMGULLION: THE VENERATE Center with the Crimson & Cardinal Dec. 31 Philbrook Across time, OUTPOST Ongoing PhilClassic. You won’t want to miss this flowers have been a source of brook Philbrook is proud to b-ball extravaganza. bokcenter.com inspiration for artists, not only for partner with award-winning artist TULSA BATTLE FOR THE their beauty but also for their Karl Unnasch to present Slumgul- BELT Dec. 16-17 Expo symbolic and sometimes secret lion, a full-scale log cabin built Square Attend the Tulsa Battle for the Belt event to witness intense meanings. philbrook.org from the skeleton of a late-1800s wrestling competition unfold on the PRINTMAKING: ART AND WRIT- pioneer home. philbrook.org mat. flowrestling.org TEN WORD Through Dec. 31 PhilTULSA SHOOTOUT Dec. brook Discover five-hundred years 27-30 Expo Square Enjoy this excitof European history and art tucked TULSA OILERS HOCKEY Dec. ing racing event held at Expo into these rare books and prints, on 2-22 BOK Center Cheer on the Square’ s SageNet Center. expoOilers as they take on opponents at view in Villa Philbrook’s original square.com home. tulsaoilers.com

TRADE & TRANSFORMATION Through Dec. 31 Phil-

2024 Philbrook Through three

SPORTS

W H E R E & W H E N | EN T ER TAINM ENT TULSA HOLIDAY WINTER

CIRCUIT Dec. 28-31 Expo Square This AQHA-approved

horse show features a full slate of Western and English events as well as roping and working cowhorse. tulsaholidaycircuit.

com

COMMUNITY

FIRST FRIDAY ART CRAWL Dec.1 DowntownTulsa

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

elok.com

TULSA FARM SHOW Dec.

7-9 Expo Square Farmers can

find wares at discounted prices at this annual show. exposquare.

com

THE COWBOY CUP Dec.

8-9 Expo Square Described at Oklahoma’s “most fair, ethical and comprehensive cannabis competition,” the Cowboy Cup’s motto is: “You can’t buy our buckle”. cowboycup.com

SECOND SATURDAY ARCHITECTURE TOUR Dec. 9 100 E.

Second St. Take a fun and

educational walking tour during the Second Saturday Architecture Tour. tulsaarchitecture.org

TULSA CHRISTMAS

PARADE Dec. 9 Downtown This festive celebration

includes floats, bands, drill teams, dancers and plenty of bright, colorful lights. tulsachristmasparade.org

PHILBROOK FESTIVAL Through Dec. 24 Philbrook Museum of Art Benefitting Phil-

brook Museum of Art, this event is holiday fun for the entire family. philbrook.org

MERRY POPS Dec. 1-2 Civic

Center Music Hall Grammy winners Take 6 and Oklahoma’s own Sandi Patty perform holiday favorites guaranteed to get you decking the halls. okcphil.org

CANTERBURY VOICES PRESENTS: HANDEL’S MESSIAH Dec. 3 Civic Center

Music Hall Experience the

majesty of G.F. Handel’s masterpiece, as Canterbury, joined by the OKC Philharmonic, bring this iconic oratorio to life. okcciviccenter.com

TALMI ENTERTAINMENT PRESENTS: NUTCRACKER! MAGICAL CHRISTMAS BALLET Dec. 7 Civic Center Music Hall Gather your loved

ones for the warm-glownostalgia of America’s favorite Christmas celebration. okcciv-

iccenter.com

OKC BALLET PRESENTS: THE NUTCRACKER Dec.

8-17 Civic Center Music Hall Audiences will not want

to miss Oklahoma City Ballet’s traditional version of The Nutcracker with choreography by artistic director Ryan Jolicoeur-Nye. okcballet.org

ADAM SANDLER Dec.

9 Paycom Center Legendary

actor and one of the funniest comedians alive, Adam Sandler, is back on the road and bringing the I Missed You Tour to Paycom Center. paycomcenter.com

RINGLING BROS AND BARNUM & BAILEY: THE

GREATEST SHOW ON

EARTH Dec. 15-17 Paycom Center The reimagined Ring-

ling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey invites children of all ages to a spectacle of superhuman feats and thrills. paycomcenter.com

LYRIC THEATRE PRESENTS: A CHRISTMAS CAROL Through Dec. 24 Lyric

at the Plaza Join Lyric Theatre for this traditional holiday tale. lyrictheatreokc.com

OKC BROADWAY PRESENTS: TINA - THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL Dec.

26-31 Civic Center Music Hall An uplifting comeback

story like no other, Tina – The Tina Turner Musical is the inspiring journey of a woman who broke barriers and became the Queen of Rock n’ Roll. okcbroadway.com

JEFF DUNHAM Dec.

28 Paycom Center Jeff Dunham kicks off the second leg of his new 2023-2024 North American tour Still Not Canceled and will be making a stop in Oklahoma City. paycomcenter.com

ADÈLE WOLF’S NEW YEAR’S EVE FOLLIES Dec. 31 Civic

Center Music Hall Ring in the

New Year being dazzled by decadent showgirls and death defying circus acts at this world-class, Vegas-style revue. okcciviccenter.com

CONCERTS

THE OLD FRIENDS ACOUSTIC TOUR Dec. 1 The Critier-

ion Don’t miss this acoustic set from Ben Rector. critierionokc.com CODY JOHNSON Dec. 2 Paycom Center Cody John-

son returns to Oklahoma City with special guests Chris Janson and Drew Parker. paycomcenter.com

TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA Dec. 7 Paycom

the latest iteration of Oklahoma Contemporary’s biennial ArtNow exhibition. oklahoma-

contemporary.org

NATIONS AT WAR! FIELD SKETCHES OF A PAWNEE WARRIOR Through Jan.

21 National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum Most

ART

people assume Native American ledger art was limited to the North American Great Plains. Known for their colorful and realistic depiction of Indigenous life, these drawings were socially validated and extremely accurate. nationalcowboymuseum.

31 OKCMOA This exhibition

OPEN FOR BUSINESS Through Feb.

Center Trans-Siberian Orches-

tra is coming back to Oklahoma City with The Ghosts of Christmas Eve The Best of TSO and More. paycomcenter.com

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

com

TRADITIONAL COWBOY ARTS ASSOCIATION EXHIBITION AND SALE Through

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. nationalcowboymuseum.

org

ARTNOW: THE SOUL IS A WANDERER Through Jan.

15 Oklahoma Contemporary The Soul is a Wanderer is

org

28 National Cowboy and West-

ern Heritage Museum It takes a team effort to create an Artist™. From all the side jobs an artist takes on to support their craft, to the spouse or partner who helps build their brand, the work of an artist is more than simply taking brush to canvas. nationalcowboymuseum.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

OKLAHOMA WOMEN’S BASKETBALL Dec. 1, 9, 22,

30 Lloyd Noble Center, Norman Cheer on OU

Women’s Basketball as the team competes at home. soonersports.com

NRHA FUTURITY CHAMPI-

ONSHIP SHOW Through Dec. 2 Oklahoma State Fair Park The National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) presents one of the fastest growing equestrian disciplines in the world. nrhafuturity.com

OKC BLUE BASKET-

BALL Dec. 3, 5-6, 8, 27, 29 Paycom Center Watch the OKC Blue take on other teams in the league. paycomcenter. com

OKLAHOMA MEN’S BASKETBALL Dec. 5, 16, 28,

31 Lloyd Noble Center, Norman Cheer on OU Men’s

Basketball as the team competes at home. soonersports.com

OKC THUNDER BASKET-

BALL Dec. 11, 18, 21, 23, 26, 27, 31 Paycom Center Join the

Thunder for electrifying nights of basketball. okcthunder.com

BOTANIC GARDEN OF

LIGHTS Through Dec. 30 Tulsa Botanic Garden Benefitting Tulsa Botanic Garden, the Garden of Light offers some holiday family fun. tulsabotanic.org

RHEMA CHRISTMAS LIGHTS Through Jan. 1 Rhema

Bible Church, Broken Arrow Walk

through Rhema Bible Church’s campus and witness over three million shimmering lights. rhem-

abiblechurch.com BA ICE RINK Through Jan. 7 418 S. Main St. Skate under the

festive twinkle lights at Broken Arrow’s only outdoor ice skating rink. baicerink.com

CHARITABLE EVENTS

PEGGY V. HELMERICH DISTINGUISHED AUTHOR AWARD GALA Dec. 1 Central

Library Amor Towles, American novelist and author, is the winner of the 2023 Peggy V. Helmerich Distinguished Author Award. tulsalibrary.org

BREAKFAST WITH

SANTA Dec. 2, 9 Tulsa Zoo Enjoy a meal with Saint Nick and help out the Tulsa Zoo. tulsazoo.org

CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON AND

FASHION SHOW Dec. 5 Renaissance Tulsa Hotel & Convention Center Come

prepared to shop one of the largest silent auctions in town followed by a lovely lunch and fashion show. salvationarmy.org

IN OKC

PERFORMANCES

OKC PHIL/CHICKASAW NATION PRESENTS: A VERY

COMMUNITY

2

RHEMA CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

LIGHTS, SKATING, CRAWLS AND HONEY

Sick of holiday events? No? Good! There are plenty to be found this month.

In Tulsa, enjoy the Tulsa Christmas Parade on Dec. 9 across downtown. Other goodies include Tulsa Winterfest by the BOK Center through Jan. 2. Don’t miss the Philbrook Festival, running through Christmas Eve, along with Botanic Garden of Lights at the Tulsa Botanic Garden through Dec. 30. Other holiday goodies include the Rhema Christmas Lights event, through Jan. 1 at the Rhema Bible College, and the Broken Arrow Ice Rink, through Jan. 7 at 418 S. Main St. Holiday offerings in OKC can be found at Downtown in December, a district-wide holiday extravaganza with free ferry rides, lights, ice skating and holiday markets, running through January. Don’t miss the OKC Community Chanukah Festival, Dec. 10 at ScissorPhoto courtesy Rhema Christmas Lights tail Park, along with Polar Express rides at the Oklahoma Railway Museum through Dec. 27. Other events include Red Earth Treefest at the BancFirst Building through Dec. 29; Winter Glow through Dec. 30 at RiverSport OKC; and the Edmond Ice Rink at Mitch Park through Jan. 15.

Around the state, holiday offerings include: Olde Tyme Christmas, Dec. 7 at E. Grand Ave. in Tonkawa; the Poinsettia Festival, Dec. 8-9 at 223 W. Main St. in Wilburton; the Sleigh Bells Market, Dec. 9 at the Southeast Expo Center in McAlester; and the Chickasha Festival of Light, through Dec. 31 at Shannon Springs Park.

If you’re burnt out, non-holiday offerings include downtown Tulsa’s First Friday Art Crawl on Dec. 1; the Tulsa Farm Show on Dec. 7-9 at Expo Square; the Cowboy Cup event, Dec. 8-9 at Expo Square; the Minco Honey Festival at Minco High School on Dec. 2; and Neuro Night, Dec. 16 at the Museum of the Great Plains in Lawton.

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W H E R E & W H E N | EN T ER TAI N M EN T JOIN US FOR THIS IMMERSIVE AND INTERACTIVE STORYTELLING EXPERIENCE...

COMMUNITY

OKC COMMUNITY CHANUKAH FESTIVAL Dec. 10 Scissortail Park Join the

Chabad Community Center at Scissortail Park as they present the OKC Community Chanukah Festival this holiday season. jewishokc.

com

THE POLAR EXPRESS Through

Dec. 27 Oklahoma Railway Museum Get in

the holiday spirit with a festive ride on The Polar Express. oklaho-

marailwaymuseum.org

RED EARTH TREEFEST Through

Dec. 29 BancFirst Tower Celebrate the

holiday season by viewing Christmas trees created and decorated by Oklahoma Native Tribes during the annual Red Earth Treefest. redearth.org

WINTER GLOW Through Dec.

30 Riversport OKC Visit to experi-

ence indoor/outdoor holiday themed activites at Riversport OKC. riversportokc.org

OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS Through Jan.

1 OKC Zoo This winter, go wild and fill your holiday season with the magic of light. okczoo.org

CREST ON ICE Through Jan.

7 2550 Mt. Williams Dr., Norman Enjoy ice

skating in Norman this holiday season. crestonice.com

O N LY AT

EDMOND ICE

RINK Through Jan. 15 Mitch Park, Edmond Enjoy holiday

ice skating on 5,600 square feet of ice. edmondicerink. com

DEVON ICE RINK Through Jan.

29 Myriad Botanical Gardens Get ready for

another great winter of outdoor ice skating at the Devon Ice Rink. myriadgardens. org

ORGANIZED BY THE ARTIST AND

CHARITABLE EVENTS

FUNDRAISING SUMMIT I- OKC Dec.

5 Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits Is your

PRESENTED BY

organization ready to move to the next level of soliciting larger gifts from individuals, foundations and corporations? The OCNP recommensd you look at their new and improved fundraising summits. okcnp.org

THE HOPE SOCIETY LUNCHEON Dec. 7 Sunbeam Early Education Center At

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the third annual Hope Society Luncheon, guests will hear inspiring stories of hope and learn about Sunbeam’s impact in building brighter futures with children and families in our community. sunbeamfamily-

services.org

3RD ANNUAL WAM SILENT AUCTION FUNDRAISER Dec.

8 Canadian River Winery, Lexington At

the 3rd annual WAM Silent Auction Fundraisier, there will be some awesome prizes, along with some great music, delicious food and great local wine – all to support the Wildnerness Adventures Ministry. waministry. org

THE STATE PERFORMANCES

PAULS VALLEY OPRY Dec. 2 Pauls

Valley Junior High School Auditorium 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

MIAMI LITTLE THEATRE PRESENTS: A CHRISTMAS CAROL Through Dec.

3 Miami Little Theatre, Miami Head to Miami

this holiday season and check out an unforgettable performance of A Christmas Carol at the Miami Little Theatre. miamilittletheatre.com

ADAM SANDLER Dec.

8 Winstar World Casino and Resort, Thackerville From his iconic

roles in everything from Happy Gilmore to The Wedding Singer, Billy Madison and beyond, Adam Sandler defined a generation with unforgettable performances and laugh-out-loud moments. winstar.com

KEVIN HART AND FRIENDS FEATURING CHELSEA HANDLER AND TIFFANY HADDISH Dec.

15 Winstar World Casino and Resort, Thackerville The

CONCERTS

MEN’S BASKETBALL Dec. 17, 21,

World Casino and Resort, Thackerville Travis Tritt and Pat

Cowboys take the court. okstate.com

TRAVIS TRITT & PAT GREEN Dec. 1 Winstar Green have earned reputations as two of the most recognizable names in country music. winstar.com

TIM MCGRAW Dec.

2 Winstar World Casino and Resort, Thackerville With 16 studio

records, including 10 number-one Top Country Albums, Tim McGraw is one of the most successful country music artists of our time. winstar.com

MARTINA MCBRIDE: THE JOY OF CHRISTMAS TOUR Dec.

2 McKnight Center for the Performing Arts, Stillwater Multiple

Grammy nominee Martina McBride has sold over 23 million albums to date, which includes 20 Top 10 singles and six #1 hits. mcknightcen-

ter.org

NELLY Dec. 8 Choc-

taw Casino and Resort,

Durant See one of this generation’s most famous rappers take the stage. choctawca-

sinos.com

LYNYRD SKYNYRD: CELEBRATING 50 YEARS Dec.

28 Winstar World Casino and Resort, Thackerville As Lynyrd

Skynyrd celebrates the 50th anniversary of the band’s critically acclaimed debut album, they resonate as deeply with their multi-generational fan base today as when they first emerged in 1973. winstar.com

WEEZER Dec. 29 Choctaw Casino and Resort, Durant Indie

rock band Weezer visits Durant. choctawcasinos.com

JUSTIN MOORE WITH PRISCILLA BLOCK Dec. 31 Choc-

taw Casino and Resort, Durant Wave goodbye

to 2023 with Justin Moore and Priscilla Block. choctawcasinos.com

BLAKE SHELTON Dec. 31 Winstar World Casino and Resort, Thackerville Our very own

biggest names in comedy are coming to WinStar. winstar.com

Oklahoma native, Blake Shelton has blown up on the country music scene since his 2001 debut. winstar.com

23 Pollard Theatre, Guthrie Experience an

OKLAHOMA STATE WOMEN’S BASKETBALL Dec. 3, 9, 17,

POLLARD THEATRE PRESENTS: A TERRITORIAL CHRISTMAS CAROL Through Dec.

Oklahoma tradition this season with Pollard Theatre’s performance of A Territorial Christmas Carol. thepollard. org

SPORTS

30 Gallgher-Iba Arena, Stillwater The Cowgirls

take on mid season foes at home. okstate.

com

OKLAHOMA STATE

31 Gallagher-Iba Arena, Stillwater Watch the

COMMUNITY

MINCO HONEY FESTIVAL Dec.

2 Minco High School, Minco Satisfy your

sweet tooth at the Minco Honey Festival with pure Oklahoma honey. During this celebration of nature’s nectar, tour the Ross Honey Plant, Oklahoma’s largest honey processing facility. minco-ok.com

DISTINCTIVE HOMES TOUR Dec. 2 Historic

Guthrie Enjoy an exclusive look inside some of Guthrie’s most distinctive homes and historic buildings, decorated for the holiday season. guthriesterritorialchristmas. com

OLDE TYME CHRISTMAS Dec. 7 E. Grand

Ave., Tonkawa This annual event kicks off with a parade, pictures with Santa at the Depot and a giant tree lighting. travelok.com

POINSETTIA FESTIVAL Dec. 8-9 223 W.

Main St., Wilburton This December,

Wilburton’s SE Plant Co. invites you to two days of winter fun at the annual Poinsettia Festival. seplantco.square. site

SLEIGH BELLS MARKET Dec.

9 Southeast Expo Center, McAlester Come to the South-

east Expo Center for a holiday retail extravaganza you won’t want to miss when the Sleigh Bells Market makes its McAlester debut. revolve-produc-

tions.com

NEURO NIGHT Dec.

16 Museum of the Great Plains, Lawton This

sensory-friendly evening is dedicated to guests with autism, ADD/ADHD or any other form of neurodivergence. discovermgp.

org

CHICKASHA FESTIVAL OF LIGHT Through Dec.

31 Shannon Springs Park, Chickasha Head

to Chickasha for one of the top holiday light shows in the nation. chickashafestivaloflight.org

NEW YEAR’S EVE BALL DROP ON THE SQUARE Dec.

31 Courthouse Square, Pawnee Bring out your

family and friends to start the New Year with a huge party complete with live music and fireworks. pawneechamberofcommerce. org

W H E R E & W H E N | FILM AND CINEMA

WRAPPING UP THIS YEAR’S CINEMA Animation. Action. Biography.

Drama. December has it all.

D

ecember. So many movies. So little time ... and so little space on the page. Here we go.

For your kaiju (Japanese media involving giant monsters) fix, check out Godzilla Minus One. Set in post-World War II Japan, the titular monster rises to the surface, causing the country’s economic state to dip into the negatives.

With arresting visuals, a wholly unique setting and a memorable central figure, the film has massive potential to be one of the best of the year when it drops on Dec. 1.

For pure action, look no further than Silent Night. Directed by John Woo (Mission: Impossible 2), his first American film in twenty years, the story follows Godluck (Joel Kinnaman, Easy Money) as he descends into the underworld on Christmas Eve to avenge his son’s death.

The trailer indicates heavy action, explosions and an all-around good time for the whole family ... if the whole family is over 17, of course. It also releases on Dec. 1.

If you need a thriller, check out Eileen.

Based on the book of the same name, it follows Eileen (Thomasin McKenzie, Jojo Rabbit), a secretary at a Boston prison,

Poor Things; Photos courtesy SearchLight Pictures

and her interactions with a newly arrived counselor named Rebecca (Anne Hathaway). Twists and turns are in full swing as their parasitic relationship grows to a fever pitch. You can try and unravel it yourself on Dec. 1.

For those with a love for animation, don’t miss The Boy and the Heron. The latest film from legendary director and animator Hayao Miyazaki (Spirited Away), the story follows Mahito Maki, who discovers an abandoned tower in his new town. Lauded for its beautiful animation and themes surrounding coming of age and coping with loss, the film has been a monumental success in Japan. It was released with almost no information or trailer and although one exists now, I strongly advise against watching it. Go in as blind as you can when it releases in the U.S. on Dec. 8.

For a weird time, check out Poor Things. A surrealist science fiction film, the story concerns Bella Baxter (Emma Stone) being brought back to life by Dr. Goodwin Baxter (Willem Dafoe). Unattached to the prejudices of the time, she roams the world with Duncan (Mark Ruffalo) as a woman in search of libera-

tion. Directed by Yorgos Lanthimos (The Favourite) and based on the 1992 novel of the same name, the film is sure to be out of the ordinary and a perfect combination of strange and science when it hits theaters on Dec. 8.

For your biographical sports drama, take a look at The Iron Claw. The story focuses on the Von Erich family, a dynasty of wrestlers, and their highs and lows both inside and outside of the ring. Zac Efron leads the film, supported by Jeremy Allen White (The Bear), Holt McCallany (Mindhunter) and Lily James (Pam & Tommy). Released by A24, it looks to be a superbly made drama with stellar performances. It hits theaters on Dec. 22.

Lastly, if you want to watch folks go real fast and enjoy a splash of family drama, don’t skip Ferrari. Starring Adam Driver as Enzo Ferrari, the film follows his personal and professional struggles after the death of his son and the impending collapse of his company. This is director Michael Mann’s (Heat) first film in eight years, it looks to be a sleek return to form for the 80-year-old director.

It releases on Christmas Day. DREW JOSEPH ALLEN

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CLOSING THOUGHTS

R

ob Ward is the fifth president and second alumnus to serve the Oklahoma Arts Institute at Quartz Mountain, a private, non-profit organization with a mission to provide exceptional multidisciplinary arts experiences that develop individual talent and inspire a lifelong passion for the arts.

Originally from McAlester, Ward was a three-time chorus student with the institute, in addition to serving an additional 15 summers as a counselor, counselor coordinator, technical director and faculty member. In addition to receiving degrees in vocal music education and choral conducting from Oklahoma State University, Southern Methodist University and the University of North Texas, Ward has taught middle, high school and university choirs. We caught up with Ward and got his thoughts on …

... the unique perspective he brings to his role.

There is no substitution for having experienced the Oklahoma Summer Arts Institute firsthand. I wish we could get more supporters to Quartz Mountain to see what we do! I wonder if people roll their eyes sometimes when we say things like: “This experience may change your life.” But I’m proof of that statement. I met one of my greatest mentors at OSAI, who then recruited me to Oklahoma State and later to the University of North Texas. OSAI put me on a path to becoming a professional musician and conductor and I’ve never forgotten that.

...what makes Quartz Mountain so special.

My wife will tell you that Quartz Mountain is my ‘happy place,’ which is to say OAI is my ‘happy place.’ Having participated in the Summer Arts Institute, and now the Fall Arts Institute, in so many different capacities, the thing that amazes me is that it’s equally special, in each of those roles. I think the crux of it is that it’s rare to have the opportunity to set aside all of life’s demands to focus on something that feeds you. There is also something more, something intangible, that comes as a result of the many ways our programs and participants are supported.

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... his day-to-day.

I’m fortunate to work alongside some tremendous friends and colleagues, as well as a board of directors who care deeply about our organization and our mission. They are the ones who turn the wheels. What I find myself considering often is what our role to play in the larger arts/ education community is. As we continue to run our programs, I see opportunity to connect with other organizations across the state. I want to know what others are doing so that I can lift them up when I have the opportunity. So aside from the day to day, I’d say I spend a fair amount of energy having conversations with stakeholders around the state to educate them about our programs, but also to get them thinking about the economic and cultural impact the arts can have in their communities.

... OAI’s other programming.

A program we piloted last year is the OAI Quartz Previews. These are short workshops we hold in various locations around the state to introduce students to the kind of work they would do at OSAI, while educating them about the audition process. Human nature tells us that we aren’t good enough or aren’t ready when it comes to auditioning for a program like OSAI. I tell students all the time that, “Yes, you are good enough, right now!” The reality is not every person who applies will be accepted, but that’s no different than a college application or job interview. Every time we put ourselves in that situation, we improve, we learn something about ourselves and we gain confidence for the next time we apply.

... what he wants people to know about OAI.

I’m disappointed when I talk to an adult artist who grew up in Oklahoma who says, “I had no idea this opportunity was out there when I was young.” The thing I want everyone to know about OAI ... is for them to know about OAI! Tell your friends, children, the teachers and administrators in your schools about this

Photo courtesy Rob Ward

Rob Ward

We are lucky to call Quartz Mountain home because of our partnership with the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department. The setting alone is an inspiration, but it’s the folks who work at Quartz Mountain and Lookout Kitchen who make us feel at home. Then, to think that some of our participants are able to attend on scholarship due to the support of the state legislature, state Department of Education, Oklahoma Arts Council, NEA, as well as a long list of foundations, corporations and private donors, amounts to this vast community of supporters who are lifting up some of Oklahoma’s most gifted artists and arts educators and saying: “We’ve got you, we’re proud of you and keep going!”

opportunity that is singular to Oklahoma! There are other programs around the country that are similar, but I’ve yet to find one that is just like the Oklahoma Arts Institute. We’re often told that Oklahoma has something truly special and unique in OAI.

... what he enjoys most about his role.

Prior to working for the Arts Institute, I was an educator, and the thing I most enjoyed were those lightbulb moments when the elements of your lesson came together in a moment of understanding. It’s not that different working for an arts institution where you plan and fundraise, negotiate and engineer a moment for others to be inspired or to find their purpose. Those moments seem so distant much of the time, but when you consider the thousands of moments over the last 47 years of the Arts Institute, you feel pretty special being part of that legacy.

... OAI’s offerings.

Along with the Summer Arts Institute for students ages 14-19, we hold a Fall Arts Institute for adults. OFAI is a series of all-inclusive, four-day workshops held over three different weekends in October at Quartz Mountain State Park. Any adult can attend these workshops, but scholarships and discounts are available for Oklahoma educators and Summer Arts Institute alumni.

For more, visit okmag.com/robward.

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