Oklahoma Magazine 2021 december by Oklahoma Magazine

DECEMBER 2021

VOTE NOW FOR THE BEST OF THE BEST 2022 AT OKMAG.COM

T: R O P E R L SPECIA 2021

GREAT

COMPANIES to Work For

22 industries 136 businesses

n o s a e S

e s i T '

A comprehensive holiday activity round-up

WARREN CLINIC URGENT CARE Whether you access our on-demand virtual care, 24/7/365 days a year, or you visit us in-person at one of our many locations, Warren Clinic providers are here for you. If you’re looking for care for a sudden illness, a minor emergency or injury, visit saintfrancis.com/urgentcare to select a time and clinic location to visit, or choose a video visit online. TULSA Springer Building 6160 South Yale Avenue 918-495-2600

Tulsa Hills 7858 South Olympia Avenue 918-986-9250 South Memorial 10506 South Memorial Drive 918-943-1050 SAND SPRINGS 102 South Main Street 918-246-5750

BROKEN ARROW Elm Place 2950 South Elm Place, Suite 120 (101st Street and Elm Place) 918-451-5191

Kenosha 1801 East Kenosha Street (71st Street and OK-51) 918-449-4150 VIRTUAL CARE Visit saintfrancis.com/urgentcare

*If you are experiencing severe illness, a major injury, symptoms of a heart attack, stroke or shortness of breath, please call 911 or visit your nearest emergency room.

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URGENT CARE HOURS FOR IN-OFFICE VISITS: Monday – Friday: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

(Springer location only)

Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

VIRTUAL URGENT CARE: Visit saintfrancis.com/urgentcare to schedule a virtual urgent care visit 24/7/365.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

DECEMBER 2021

O K L A H O M A M AG A Z I N E

7 Great Companies to Work For

Pinpointing what makes a business ‘great’ can be challenging. Is it the atmosphere? The leadership? Benefits, vacation time, flexibility? In truth, a company worth working for likely has all those and more. Oklahoma Magazine’s Great Companies to Work For feature gives readers a peek behind the curtain at numerous successful enterprises. From healthcare systems to higher education institutions, law firms, manufacturing plants and tech behemoths, the state abounds with businesses that positively impact the state ... and the lives of their employees.

State

’Tis the season to give back, and ample volunteer opportunities are at your fingertips.

12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30 32 34 36

39 40

Holiday Activity Round-Up

From budget-friendly crafts to ice skating, carriage rides, numerous shows and twinkling light displays, December looks merry and bright in Oklahoma.

ON THE COVER:

DECEMBER 2021

VOTE NOW FOR THE BEST OF THE BEST 2022 AT OKMAG.COM

RT:

REPO SPECIAL

2021

GREAT

COMPANIES to Work For

22 industries 136 businesses

Season

e ' Tis

A comprehensive holiday activity round-up

THE DECEMBER ISSUE IS FILLED TO THE BRIM WITH FESTIVE CONTENT. THE COVER IMAGE SHOWCASES THE MYRIAD HOLIDAY DECORATION OPTIONS AT COHLMIA’S IN TULSA. READ A STORY ABOUT THEIR DECORATING EXPERTISE ON PAGE 14. PHOTO BY STEPHANIE PHILLIPS

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2021

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44 46 48

80 81 82 83

84 86 88

Business How-To Arts Around the Globe Nature Education Hobbies Happenings History Philanthropy People Seniors Insider

Life and Style FYI Destinations

Off the southeastern coast of Georgia, you’ll find a treasure trove of luxurious islands.

Health Outside the Metro Scene

Taste

La Baguette Bistro produces authentic cuisine created by a duo of French brothers.

Local Flavor Chef Chat Tasty Tidbits

Where and When

Holiday fun, sports and community events dominate the December calendar.

Film and Cinema Closing Thoughts

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OKLAHOMA LET TER FROM THE EDITOR Whether you’re on the hunt for a job that inspires you or just have an interest in the many businesses within our state lines, the annual Great Companies to Work For feature is a must-read (page 51). With over 130 companies in 22 industries, GCTWF highlights the enterprises in Oklahoma that keep their employees and clients happy while making the state a better place to live and work. Make sure to read our forward with Wallace Design Collective's CEO Tom Hendrick, too. Fear not – there’s no shortage of holiday cheer in this issue. Start with our State cover on philanthropic efforts centered around the holidays (page 7); then our month-long activity round-up on page 26. We also discuss home and office decor tips from the experts (page 14); as well as proper Christmas tree care – including how to dispose of the tree in an eco-conscious way (page 39). Lastly, we’ve curated a comprehensive holiday activity guide (page 76) that outlines both budget-friendly and luxurious to-dos with friends and family on your off-days, from Christmas crafts to carriage rides. The national economy is in flux right now, and we explore the supply shortages and their impacts on Oklahoma in our State section (page 12). Stick around for highlights that include a deep dive into collegiate music programs (page 16) and a behind-the-scenes look at English as a Second Language classes (page 22). Other gems include sojourns to the hidden trove of Sea Island, Ga. (page 40) and a popular French bistro in OKC (page 80). All that and more awaits. Savor the season! Mary Willa Allen Managing Editor

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PRESIDENT AND EDITORIAL DIRECTOR DANIEL SCHUMAN

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What’s HOT at

OKMAG.COM COMING IN DECEMBER If you're looking for things to do this December with out-of-town guests, friends or family, the comprehensive holiday activity guide should be your go-to. Starting on page 76, readers can discover events across the state, with bonus content and photos online at okmag.com.

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Copyright © 2021 by Schuman Publishing Company. Oklahoma Wedding, The Best of the Best, 40 Under 40, Single in the City, Great Companies To Work For and Oklahomans of the Year are registered trademarks of Schuman Publishing Company. All rights reserved. Reproduction without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited. All photographs, articles, materials and design elements in Oklahoma Magazine and on okmag. com are protected by applicable copyright and trademark laws, and are owned by Schuman Publishing Company or third party providers. Reproduction, copying, or redistribution without the express written permission of Schuman Publishing Company is strictly prohibited. All requests for permission and reprints must be made in writing to Oklahoma Magazine, c/o Reprint Services, P.O. Box 14204, Tulsa, OK 74159-1204. Advertising claims and the views expressed in the magazine by writers or artists do not necessarily represent those of Oklahoma Magazine, Schuman Publishing Company, or its aﬀiliates.

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Here to Help You Rebuild Your Life® Nourishing Things To Do While Going Through A Divorce

Going through a divorce can be a stressful experience. For many, it can feel like their life and the life of their kids are hanging in the balance. The uncertainty can cause lots of clients to feel stressed and overwhelmed. Instead of engaging in unproductive activity, it is important that individuals take positive steps to move forward. Taking positive steps can take an individual’s mind off the divorce and put them in a better place when they have to make decisions in their case. An individual going through a divorce must nourish their mind and soul. For everybody, there may be different ways to do so. However, below are some possibilities: Exercising: Physical activity can often help somebody relax and feel better. Whether jogging, biking, lifting weights, yoga, or other physical activity, getting some exercise can help raise morale and make somebody feel relaxed and energized. Spirituality: Obviously, faith and beliefs are different for everybody. But if you enjoy going to church, a synagogue, mosque or temple, it is crucial to keep that in your schedule. One going through a divorce may often think about leaning into that more than before and engaging in social gather-

ings there as well. Having faith and hope in something beyond yourself can help ease your worry. In addition, being around other optimistic individuals with faith can often be helpful. For those who are not religious, it might mean time engaging in yoga, meditating or other relaxation. Friends & Family: Spending time with positive friends and family members can also help an individual get to a better place. Having a support system around in the middle of a divorce is essential. So, do not be afraid to reach out to those that care about you. Hobbies: If there are hobbies an individual enjoys that ease the mind, it can be vital to spend time doing those activities. Whether it’s getting into nature, going to movies, attending sporting events, decorating, cooking or any other hobby or recreational activity, it’s essential to get out and enjoy life. Read and Listen to Podcasts: Books and podcasts can be important for those going through a divorce. This can be particularly true if these books and podcasts are uplifting. The beauty of podcasts is that many of these can be found online for free. Therapy: A divorce is often a traumatic experience. Those going through a divorce should think long and hard about seeing a therapist to help work through the pain and anguish of a divorce. The best therapists are excellent listeners who can also provide guidance and critical insight. While most know that divorce is conceptually hard, it’s hard to really understand it until one goes through it. For this reason, it is vital to take positive steps and engage in activity that is nourishing. The above examples are just some

possibilities for those to consider who are going through a divorce. Indeed other individuals might find different ways to raise their morale during a divorce. Stange Law Firm, PC limits their practice to family law matters including divorce, child custody, child support, paternity, guardianship, adoption, mediation, collaborative law and other domestic relation matters. Stange Law Firm, PC gives clients 24/7 access to their case through a secured online case tracker found on the website. They also give their clients their cell phone numbers. Call for a consultation today at 855805-0595.

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The choice of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements. Stange Law Firm, PC is respsonsible for the content. Principal place of business is 120 South Central Ave, Suite 450, Clayton, MO 63105. Court rules do not permit us to advertise that we specialize in a particular field or area of law. The areas of law mentioned in this article are our areas of interest and generally are the types of cases which we are involved. It is not intended to suggest specialization in any areas of law which are mentioned The information you obtain in this advertisement is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls, letters and electronic mail. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. Past results afford no guarantee of future results and every case is different and must be judged on its merits.

Tulsa County Office

6660 S. Sheridan Road, Suite 240

Tulsa, Oklahoma 74133

Oklahoma County Office 2601 NW Expressway, Suite 411 W

Oklahoma City, OK 73112

AMERICAN MADE. BY YOU. Thank you for ranking us among the Best of the Best for 2021. As an industry pioneer started in Perry, Oklahoma, we’ve not only worked hard to transform infrastructure across the globe. But to also create meaningful livelihoods for the hundreds who call Ditch Witch® their work family.

THE STATE

ALL THINGS OKLAHOMA

The Spirit of Giving

Ample volunteer opportunities are at your fingertips this holiday season.

The Hawg Wild Toy Drive, hosted by Bristow Social Services, is just one of many volunteer events hosted in Oklahoma this holiday season. Photo courtesy Bristow Social Services

f there’s one thing that’s worth spreading this holiday season, it’s the spirit of giving. At the forefront of doing good deeds are Oklahoma’s nonprofits and other charitable organizations, many of which are spearheading festivities that address their communities’ greatest needs. No matter the cause, these places depend upon the support of others to bring their programs to life. Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic has amplified the demand for volunteers and contributions to aid those struggling. “The pandemic has not been easy on families,” says Krista Hemme, chief marketing officer at the Tulsa Area United Way. “It’s caused a lot of stress from lost income from instability at jobs.” However, there are multiple ways to lend a helping hand this year. Working alongside its 59 partner agencies, TAUW is hoping to inspire Oklahomans to take action by launching a seasonal webpage: tauw.org/winter-holidayvolunteer-opportunities. Hemme describes it as a “one-stop-shop,” where people can learn about the numerous ways to get involved.

“Even just having a festive meal that a family would otherwise not have can really make a big difference during the holidays,” she says. LIFE Senior Services is another nonprofit that’s making the season a special time through its Holiday Project, which will provide 600 gifts to members of ADvantage Case Management, LIFE PACE, and Adult Day Health Centers. To pull it off, the nonprofit is looking for volunteers to wrap and deliver gifts and assist with administrative work. “This is a busy time of the year for volunteerism,” says Heidi Braver, volunteer manager at LIFE. “We definitely see an increase of individuals who want to ensure that our participants have a wonderful holiday season.” With that same goal in mind, the Salvation Army is spreading cheer through its Red Kettle and Angel Trees campaigns. These Christmas programs require hundreds of volunteers to help raise funds, run registration booths, and organize and distribute donated gifts. Both programs have rich histories that illustrate the

DECEMBER 2021 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

T H E S TAT E | S TA R T I N G O F F

Above: The Salvation Army commands in Tulsa and OKC oﬀer a variety of volunteer opportunities in the holiday months. Photo courtesy Salvation Army Tulsa Area Command Right: The spirit of giving is evident in the volume of donations received by area nonprofits. Photo courtesy LIFE Senior Services

OKLAHOMANS GIVE BACK Although the holidays will come to pass, the need for volunteers extends throughout the year. According to a report from the Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits, Oklahomans provided over 94 million hours of community service in 2020, totaling an estimated value of $2.2 billion in labor. To promote volunteerism, many of the state’s nonprofits participate in the United Way’s Day of Caring, an annual event that sources volunteers from companies and organizations within the community. Last year was the 30th anniversary for the Tulsa program, and over 2,400 people from 80 diﬀerent organizations participated. “We have groups of employees from diﬀerent companies that go into the community and help our nonprofit agencies by doing service work, whether it’s sprucing up the landscaping or building benches and picnic tables for schools,” says Hemme. “It’s a remarkable turnout.” The United Way of Central Oklahoma and the Tulsa Area United Way work to provide a social safety net to their partner agencies by funding

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2021

Salvation Army’s commitment to do good. The Red Kettles date back to 1891, when Capt. Joseph McFee helped feed the hungry by asking citizens of San Francisco to place donations in a crab pot with a sign that read ‘Fill the pot for the poor – free dinner on Christmas Day.’ Capt. Charles and Shirley White conceived the Angel Tree program in a shopping mall in Lynchburg, Va., in 1979. Since then, it has become a staple of the Salvation Army’s annual programming. In 2020, the Tulsa Area Command distributed 50,650 gifts and 2,797 holiday food boxes throughout the community. “It’s a large-scale operation,” says Wayde Normandin, volunteer and disaster resource manager at Tulsa’s Salvation Army. “We rely on our volunteers … to make Christmas special for people.” For those who may have less time to spare, there are several organizations requesting drop-off donations, such as Family & Children’s Services, the Tulsa Day Center, Rescue City Mission and the OKC Homeless Alliance. The requested items help cover the basic needs of people served, along with providing gifts and holiday baskets to children and families. During the hustle and bustle of the holidays, volunteering can serve as a reminder of what’s most important: family, friends and our communities. “It’s really all-hands-on-deck for all of us,” says Normandin. “It’s a wonderful time and a beautiful opportunity for folks to give back during the Christmas season.” FAITH HARL

10 to 20% of their annual budgets. To raise funds, the United Way holds workplace campaigns and special events every year. Similarly, the Salvation Army closes the gap for those in need through its wide range of programming and community-based services. In September, members of the Tulsa Area Command traveled to Louisiana to provide disaster relief to survivors of Hurricane Ida. “Our staging area was in Gonzalez, Louisiana,” says Normandin. “[We would] set up and pass out water and hot food and breakfast boxes.” For two weeks, the Salvation Army distributed approximately 800 meals every day. The organization oﬀers training for its disaster services at its multiple locations throughout the year as a starting point for people to get involved. Normandin says volunteering is a way to contribute something “bigger than ourselves.” Individuals who are interested in making a difference can reach out to their local nonprofits and charitable organizations to find current volunteer opportunities.

Season’s Greetings Dr. Matthew Walker, Dr. Brian Gosnell and the Utica Dental Team want to wish the Tulsa community a holiday season filled with Big, BEAUTIFUL Smiles! The team would also like to take this opportunity to thank all of our patients for choosing us in servicing their dental needs and express how grateful we are to have taken care of you this year. Dr. Walker would also like to take this time to invite any new patients who are looking for a dental home to visit Utica Dental where every patient is a priority and truly a member of the family. From our office to your home, Season’s Greetings! BOB-Final2012.pdf

5/21/12

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2016

2017

2020

2021

1720 S. Utica Ave. • Tulsa, OK 74104 • 918.300.1590 • UticaDental.com

“Chinowth & Cohen is a family, I feel like they do care for each of us and they are there for us if we need them. Also, I love how they set high standards for the company and are always trying to be better. That makes them the best! And I want my name associated with the best!” Donna Posey, REALTOR (Coweta Office) “Chinowth & Cohen is a wonderful place to work because of its leadership! Sheryl, Lee, Leland, and Taylor, along with all the brokers that help build C&C’s leadership team, are smart, innovative, hardworking, and have the highest regard for their agents! It is wonderful working for a real estate company that always has your back, and your success is always at the forefront of the company’s mission.” Evan & Lindsay Gibson, REALTOR (Owasso Office) “C&C offers its sales force free education, top shelf marketing that is innovative and connects us to the public easily and frequently and an excellent staff that helps make C&C the most successful real estate company in the state. But above all, it’s run by a family that will continue its success for generations to come, keeping locally earned money in our cities, which helps everyone in the area.” Suzy Stewart, REALTOR (South Tulsa Office) so proud to have my name associated “I’m“I’m so proud to have my name associated withwith the the family-owned Chinowth & Cohen because reach family-owned Chinowth & Cohen because I canI can reach the the owners anytime for questions, support to discuss issues. owners anytime for questions, support or toordiscuss issues. I love doesn’t do anything halfway - from Plus,Plus, I love thatthat C&CC&C doesn’t do anything halfway - from branding marketing to work space attitude it’s all branding andand marketing to work space andand attitude - it’s- all in the business!” the the bestbest in the business!” Cindy Morrison , REALTOR (South Tulsa Office) Cindy Morrison , REALTOR (South Tulsa Office) “C&C embraces you as a new or seasoned realtor with open arms - giving you nothing but the best, from an awesome marketing team to the best people to learn and train along side. I couldn’t imagine myself anywhere else.” Logan Nero, REALTOR (Muskogee Office) “It is fun working for a company that has such positive vibes and one that is caring and is constantly giving back to the community. Chinowth agents are the best! Fun, Helpful and Knowledgeable!” Carol VanBrunt, REALTOR (Grand Lake Office)

A great company to work for! “Chinowth & Cohen has created a trusted name as the #1 real estate company in our community. And that reputation helps my clients feel confident that I’m going to deliver top of market service!”

John Gibson Miller, REALTOR (Bixby Office)

“Family and Culture. You immediately become a member of their family and you feel that support always. They have created a culture of kindness and to treat others exactly how you would like to be treated, believing it is never wrong to do the right thing and never right to do the wrong thing.” Becky Zarecki, BROKER MANAGER (Owasso Office)

10X WINNER Best Real Estate Company

“In Search of Excellence by Tom Peters, first published in 1982, featured and described the management practices of some of “America’s Best-Run Companies...” If it was being written today and included real estate brokers, Chinowth & Cohen would have definitely been covered in the book. It is one of the “Best-Run Real Estate Companies” in Oklahoma if not the entire United States! And, that is why I work for Chinowth & Cohen Realtors.” Bill Fiore, REALTOR (South Tulsa Office)

“We love working for Chinowth & Cohen, because we have a large support system with a family feel. They provide all the marketing tools we could ever need plus training and CE courses offered by our very own brokerage. The owners are always available and a phone call away. We would not want to work for any other company.” Ann Salyer Cox, REALTOR (Nichols Hills Office) “They help us to make our job easy. We can meet with clients at any office around Tulsa metro area. They facilitated the best marketing group for our marketing ideas & needs. They provide the resources to help us be more productive and motivate us to grow. Chinowth & Cohen goes above and beyond because they care for us and our clients.” Monica Castillo, REALTOR (Bixby Office)

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T H E S TAT E | B U S I N E S S

Minding the Gap

Despite supply chain shortages, Oklahoma businesses work to attract new employees while mitigating the issue at hand.

Tulsa Ports are working diligently to help the supply chain issues happening worldwide. Photo courtesy Tulsa Ports

upply chain disruptions won’t be easing anytime soon, but Oklahoma transportation industry leaders are doing their best to mitigate the aggravation. “We want to be part of the solution and help the supply chain,” says Dan Grisham, deputy director of the City of Tulsa-Rogers County Port Authority, which does business as Tulsa Ports. “It’s just not going to be overnight. We are not going to see any relief until well into 2022.” The size of the ships is one problem, says David Yarbrough, director of Tulsa Ports. “These big ships come from Asia, unload at the West coast, and then the cargo moves by rail to transportation centers, and then goes on trucks to our stores,” says Yarbrough. “Because that was so profitable, ship companies made bigger ships. Ships are so large now that most of them can’t come into New Orleans and other ports – they have to come to Los Angeles-Long Beach. This is why you hear of channeldeepening projects, to dredge our gulf ports to depths that allow larger vessels.” Yarbrough thinks the inland river system, which Tulsa Ports is part of on the Arkansas River, could help to ease the logjam. “The ports in the Gulf of Mexico could begin to accept lighter ships,” he says. “We know the inland river system has more capacity. We would put containers on barges. Our inland rivers could be a part of the solution to getting goods to market quicker than we are today.” ‘Driver appreciation’ is the key phrase at Melton Truck Lines in Tulsa, which has raised pay rates several times this year in an attempt to ease the driver shortage. “We can’t find enough drivers, so trucks are sitting empty and idle,” says Angie Buchanan, Melton’s vice president of operations. Melton owns about 1,300 trucks and employs about 1,200 drivers. The company recently began a

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2021

partnership with a driving school at its international headquarters in Tulsa, Buchanan says. “We just raised the pay for people in training, which is exciting for them and expensive for us, but you can’t expect these people to seek out the training and have no income,” she says. The company pays for room, board and tuition while students attend the three- to four-week school, then a salary kicks in as they progress to the apprenticeship phase. “Our recruiting and retention of veterans is pretty incredible,” says Buchanan. “It doesn’t matter what they did in the service, they just fit in really well. They are resourceful, they are adventurous, they are accustomed to travel.” TBS Factoring Service in Oklahoma City provides services to freight owner-operators. The trucker shortage “has been going on for several decades,” says Hailey Benton-Thomas, CEO of TBS. “E-commerce is a big part of it. The market evolved before our infrastructure did.” COVID-19 exacerbated the problem, with consumers spending COVID relief checks, ordering more household essentials online and sprucing up their homes with big-ticket items that were soon placed on backorder. “I think there will come a day in the near term when the trucking shortage will get even worse,” says Benton-Thomas. “As trucks start to go out of service, we will have a hard time replacing them with new ones. It’s a complex problem that can’t be solved by any one logistics group, or just the government.” Her company is investing in technology to help its clients operate efficiently. “We take care of anything they can’t do from the cabs of their trucks,” she says. “We help them find loads, take care of their taxes and permits – all those services a trucker needs to stay in business, so they can spend every minute they can driving.” KIMBERLY BURK

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T H E S TAT E | H O W -T O

Festive Furnishings

Decor experts offer tips to get your home or office in tip-top shape for the holidays.

fter a bummer of a holiday season last year, replete with cancellations of at-home holiday parties, oﬀice celebrations and community events, Oklahomans are more excited than ever to get festive in 2021. People are decorating their homes and businesses earlier, and the results can sometimes be considered works of art.

Design

Cohlmia’s in Tulsa oﬀers design services to help clients decorate for the holidays. Photos by Stephanie Phillips

To some, the idea of glitter and ribbon, twinkling lights and the placement of poinsettias is a true calling and passion. That’s certainly the case for the design team at Cohlmia’s in Tulsa, which also owns the garden center Calvert’s in OKC. “For people who want to decorate outside, I recommend starting when the weather is still nice,” says retail manager Erin Walston. “You don’t necessarily have to turn the lights on, but it prevents you from having to work in the colder elements.” She also mentions that the pandemic has inspired folks to go bolder with their decorations. For those with no idea where to start, Cohlmia’s has a decorator in the store at all times ... so even if you just have a general idea of what you want, Walston recommends coming into the store to get help realizing your design vision. The focal points of the more customary decorations are the front doors, with intricate wreaths or flashy ribbon, or perhaps an entryway with modern miniature Christmas trees or a funky cactus display. When it comes to design touches, even if you have an older motif that you want to modernize, Cohlmia’s can help, with design tricks up their sleeves. “I don’t always use every ornament; some years I may use more of a certain color and will change the ribbon on the tree. People always think I have a brand new tree,” says Walston. Cohlmia’s sell a wide range of ribbons in various lengths for just about any theme. Mason jars of twinkling lights add a nice sparkle to any

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2021

space, and if you’re looking for more sleek and modern styles, options abound.

Florals

Adding pops of colors with flowers, whether traditional or not, can jazz up any holiday look. Toni Garner, owner of Toni’s Flowers and Gifts, gives some insight on newer, popular looks for the holiday season. “A lot of folks are doing tablescapes with orchids, planting them in a silver or gold pot. They can remove the red and green decorations and still keep a festive look for New Years,” she says. Another popular trend is planting amaryllis bulbs in colorful pots to watch them bloom throughout the season. Toni’s has a wide selection of traditional and modern flowers for the holidays, as well as decor, and is fully staﬀed by passionate professionals committed to making any occasion as aesthetically pleasing as possible. No matter what look you’re going for this season, there are an abundance of ideas to make that dream a reality. ERIKA BROWNING

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T H E S TAT E | A R T S

The Sweet Sounds of Success

Collegiate music programs offer rigorous curricula, but ensure students feel encouraged and ready to take on the industry.

lthough some professional musicians are just naturally gifted, most spend years perfecting their crafts. Music education plays a vital role in developing those abilities, and Oklahoma is home to over 25 collegiate music programs. Every semester, hundreds of prospective students seek admission to one of them. Virtually all collegiate music programs require students to go through a two-part admissions process. Music students must first apply to the college of their School of Music at the University of Oklahoma oﬀers a variety of degree programs for musicians. choice. Then, if accepted, they audition for admission to oto courtesy the School of Music at the University of Oklahoma the school of music or the music department. The requirements for auditions vary from school to school and also by instrument, but most ask the student to perform two musical pieces that contrast in style and showcase technical ability. Some colleges require students to sight-read sheet music or complete an interview. “We hear some amazing performances,” says Dr. Roland Barrett, Henry Zarrow presidential professor and director of the School of Music at the University of Oklahoma. “The level at which young students are now performing is incredible. It gets better every year.” Faculty assess students who audition across multiple criteria, such as tonality, lyricism, phrasing and breath support. Although the audition process may cause performance anxiety, both Oklahoma State Uni-

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2021

versity and the University of Oklahoma strive to make it an encouraging experience for participants. “We try to find a pathway for students who want to be involved in the program,” says Dr. Jeﬀrey Loeﬀert, professor and director at Oklahoma State University’s Greenwood School of Music. “The purpose of the audition is to help ensure that the students can be successful.” Students typically wait a few days to a couple of weeks to receive the results of their auditions. If accepted, there may be numerous music-related degrees they can pursue, ranging from a Bachelor of Musical Arts to a Bachelor of Science in Music. While many might assume the end goal would be to become a professional musician or performer, there are many other career paths that music students can take. According to Barrett, over 90% of the University of Oklahoma’s alumni who have music education degrees secure teaching positions after graduating. Other opportunities include working in arts administration or music production. “There are many great music programs in the state,” says Barrett. “Our goal is...to provide a welcoming, comfortable, supportive environment, in which all of our students can really feel like they’re being given a chance to thrive, and excel and meet their dreams.” FAITH HARL

Left: The School of Music at the University of Oklahoma oﬀers a variety of degree programs for musicians. Photo courtesy the School of Music at OU Below: If accepted after a two-part audition process, students at the Michael and Anne Greenwood School of Music at OSU become part of a supportive and educational environment. Photo courtesy the Michael and Anne Greenwood School of Music

The Business of it All At the Academy of Contemporary Music at the University of Central Oklahoma (ACM@UCO), students have the opportunity to learn from instructors who have toured and performed with musical acts such as The Flaming Lips, Aretha Franklin and Miley Cyrus. ACM@UCO emphasizes hands-on experience and provides students with access to state-of the-art equipment for recording, producing and performing their own music. Located in OKC’s Bricktown Entertainment District, its facilities include four recording studios, five rehearsal spaces, fully-equipped classrooms, a concert venue and two technology labs. The academy serves nearly 400 full-time students, oﬀering degrees in Contemporary Music Business, Contemporary Music Performance, and Contemporary Music Production.

T H E S TAT E | A R O U N D T H E G L O B E

Starting A New Chapter

A native Tulsan and her husband made the best of the pandemic by creating a thriving business in Italy.

“I

After moving to Italy, Amanda Forman and her husband Marco Simonelli began producing olive oil from the groves on their property. Photos courtesy Amanda Forman

t’s a story about moving to another country, starting a new business, surviving the pandemic, rediscovery and adventure. What more could you ask from life?” asks Marco Simonelli. When Tulsa native Amanda Forman moved to Italy in 2017, she didn’t intend to become an olive oil producer and exporter. She’d had a successful career in Tulsa working in her family’s business, when she and her husband, Simonelli, decided to relocate. They settled in Marco’s hometown of Perugia, in the region Umbria, dwelling in a country home that has been in the family for four generations. It was here, surrounded by 300-year-old olive trees, that they began their new adventure. Simonelli is a professional photographer, and Forman an event planner, so the couple decided to combine forces and found a destination wedding business.

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2021

They had personal experience, having been married at a Medieval castle in Umbria. Their future looked bright, with a full 2020 wedding season on the books. Then in March, COVID-19 changed everything. “All of a sudden, our weddings were canceled,” says Forman. “Events were basically illegal, and we found ourselves in complete lockdown.” Not knowing what the future would hold, the couple channeled their fear and frustration into positive energy, turning their attention to the property’s olive groves that hadn’t been given much thought. Climbing the trees to prune overgrown branches and wrestling tightly-clinging ivy down with a crowbar gave them a good workout ... along with a new sense of purpose. The trees showed their appreciation with a highly abundant 2020 harvest, providing far more olive oil than the couple could use themselves. It was then that Olivando was born. Because Umbria only produces 2% of Italy’s olive oil, it rarely leaves the region. Most people think of Puglia and Sicily when sourcing, since both grow significant quantities. The couple had an excellent opportunity to offer a product that is as delicious as it is rare. Having had no experience in the business, they decided to test

the waters by offering Olivando to friends and family back in the U.S. They thought a few might be intrigued and order Christmas gifts. They built a simple website and made posts on social media. They sold out in less than a week. Forman and Simonelli have since ramped up production and added a second oil, a Monocultivar (single varietal), to their lineup. They are ready to offer it, alongside the second vintage of the “Originale” blend that few people outside of Umbria have ever experienced.

Umbria in a Box

In addition, the couple teamed up with fellow American ex-pat Susan Guerra to create “Umbria in a Box,” which highlights regional artisan micro-producers, or as they like to say, “foods with a story to tell.” Guerra operates Via Del Vino, a local food and wine tour company in Perugia. She works closely with chefs and producers to show her (sometimes famous) clients the best of Umbria. I was fortunate to get to spend some time following along on a recent trip to visit the region. For more info, visit viadelvino.com. Olivando is currently available in very limited supply in Tulsa at The Meat and Cheese Show (1306 E. 11th St.) or online at olivando. it. Visit the website for more information, tasting notes and recipes. AMANDA JANE SIMCOE

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The True Hydration Station

The Oklahoma Water Resources Board ensures the state’s residents have clean and safe water to drink.

Staﬀ at the Oklahoma Water Resources Board work to collect physical, chemical and biological data to set Oklahoma’s water quality standards. Photos courtesy OWRB

f the hundreds of state agencies that exist to ensure the smooth management of Oklahoma, many of them are well known and operate quite publicly – such as the Oklahoma Department of Transportation and the Department of Public Safety. Next time you turn on the tap and fresh water pours out, however, you can thank one of the lesser-known state agencies, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB), for its regulatory oversight of one our most precious resources. “The water board and water management are not really known by the general public,” says Julie Cunningham, the board’s executive director. “You know, you turn on your tap and you expect water to come out, but you don’t think about what it takes, where the water came from, the water rights that your community had to obtain to get that water.” The water board, which is involved in all of those processes and more, has a number of directives, but its main objectives include managing and improving Oklahoma’s water resources through water use appropriation and permitting, water quality monitoring and standards, providing financial assistance for water/

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2021

Cauthron. “We do the beneficial wastewater systems, and dam use monitoring program known safety, among others. as BUMP; we do stream-gauging, “The water board is a very monitoring on groundwater wells, diverse agency with a really important mission,” says Cunning- biological collections ... so that’s a taste of what we do on the moniham. “Our agency is in a position toring. We also write the state’s to do the data collection, and the water quality standards, which are studies to engage with the public used by a number of environmenon these very important water tal agencies where we outline the issues. The challenges are good expectations for water quality in challenges, and our job is to have our lakes, streams an understandand groundwaters ing of those across the state.” challenges Despite ever and let people changing weather know. Let our conditions, aging lawmakers infrastructure and understand, let the financial chalour citizens unJulie Cunningham is nalenges faced by all derstand, and tive to Oklahoma, so the state agencies, the work toward challenges that the state OWRB is adaptresiliency.” faces when it comes ing and working Within the to water resources are to ensure that the agency, there state’s water can are four divinot abstract or distant – continue to serve sions including they’re happening in her Oklahomans for administrative backyard. She worked centuries to come. services, finanin all four parts of the “We are cercial assistance, organization before tainly going to face planning ascending to the top role. our challenges,” and manage“I began at the water says Cunningham. ment, and the board as a temporary,” “Water planning water qualshe says. “We were hired today and in the ity programs. under the Clean Lakes future is going to Bill Cauthron Program, under Bill be different than leads that last water planning division, which Cauthron, to do scientific was in the past. collects physistudies on Oklahoma’s Our biggest chalcal, chemical lakes. I made $6 an hour, lenge is going to be and biological but it was my favorite job the infrastructure data to set I’ve ever had. I had never investment we Oklahoma’s had a reason to travel to need, but as far as water quality every corner of the state the future, Oklahostandards. and we’ve just got some ma has a healthy “Our divibeautiful resources. So water supply.” sion does a that hooked me.” LUKE REYNOLDS lot of different things,” says

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On the Right Track English as a Second Language educators prepare hardworking students for lives of success.

English as a Second Language classes help non-native English speaking students create strong foundations for successful futures. Photo courtesy Tulsa Public Schools

eachers of English as a Second Language are all about helping students launch their futures, but it really helps to know where these students have come from, too. “You’ve got some kids who have had to walk through countries that would just as soon kill them as let them come to the United States,” says educator Cheril Scott, who will retire in May after 16 rewarding years at Capitol Hill High School in Oklahoma City. “But they got here, and they are going to have better lives.” Barbara McCrary, who spent two years as an English Language Development teacher for Tulsa Public Schools, wanted to see for herself how her Zomi-speaking students had lived in their native Myanmar. In 2017, she visited the country with a group of American teachers. “I learned what a shock it must have been to come to the United States,” says McCrary. “The first time they wore shoes was to get on the plane to come here.” She also witnessed “the hard, hard work that children are expected to do. They are taken out to

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2021

the fields when they are babies. It’s a life of hard labor.” The Zomi speakers are Christians who belong to the Chin tribe, and are ethnic and religious minorities, says McCrary. “Their tribe is one that is not favored,” she explains. “Their lives were in danger.” Laura Grisso, executive director of language and cultural services for Tulsa Public Schools, says the district has about 9,300 ELD (English Language Development) learners from 60 countries who speak 72 languages; Spanish is the most common. “They are learning English – they are not behind,” says Grisso. “They are amazing kids who come with this wealth of knowledge. They just need to find the words for it.” Scott agrees. “They have the exact same capacity as other students, they

Becoming an ESL Instructor

just don’t have the vocabularies to show it,” she shares. She also says it hasn’t been hard to bond with her students. “I’ve held their hands through surgical procedures,” she says. “I’ve helped them find a therapist who could understand where they are coming from. I’ve attended quinceañeras.” McCrary, who now teaches in the gifted and talented program, misses her ELD days. “I loved that the kids really appreciated education,” she says. “They respected their teachers, and we had great support from the parents. They are eager learners. I still keep in contact with those kids.” Scott says she is frank with her students about what it will take to train for stable and rewarding careers while still learning a new language. “We encourage them to go to Rose State College, or Oklahoma City Community College for the first two years, where the class sizes are smaller and the professors are more understanding,” she says. Grisso says students from Afghanistan are expected in Tulsa schools in the coming months. “We are very quickly learning about Afghan culture, language and etiquette, and how we [can] help them feel safe, how we [can] help them transition,” says Grisso. KIMBERLY BURK

Teachers with a teaching certificate in any area can apply to be an English Language Development teacher, says Laura Grisso, executive director of language and cultural services for Tulsa Public Schools. Oklahoma does not require ELD teachers to be certified, but a certification exam is available from the state education department, Grisso says. Tulsa now asks its ELD teachers to certify by the end of their first year, and the district oﬀers monthly study groups, online test preparation and reimbursement for the $135 testing fee. The Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence, based in Oklahoma City, launched a program last year oﬀering testing vouchers and an online test prep course, says Grisso.

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GETTING STARTED

Molding Peace of Mind

Pottery combines creativity and calmness for an ideal new pastime.

“

Purple Glaze in Tulsa has helped people find their zen since 1994. Photos courtesy Purple Glaze

Pottery is the new yoga,” says Collin Rosebrook, owner of Paseo Pottery in Oklahoma City’s historic Paseo Arts District. For 31 years, the pottery studio – which was first a boarded-up laundromat – has been a space for creativity and solace. Beginners will find that they are “immediately successful,” says Rosebrook. Everything starts with wet clay and is made by hand, ensuring each piece unique. Students and studio members – which include everyone from psychologists to court justices – can create pottery and lose themselves in the process. “They are not preoccupied with the outside world,” says Rosebrook. Around the third session, Rosebrook explains, the process “opens up a whole different view of things,” and participants will learn more advanced concepts, such as how to create different textures. Paseo Pottery, which

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2021

makes its glazes in-house, is one of many studios in OKC where you can experience this hobby firsthand. “I’m still having fun,” quips Rosebrook. “Maybe someday I’ll get a job.” In Tulsa, Tulsa’s Purple Glaze has offered clay-fired items like vases and platters for people to paint and fire since 1994. Owner Jeff Stunkard and his father, who passed away earlier this year, ran their two locations together. There are hundreds of items to choose from, and many gravitate towards seasonal items like Christmas ornaments. Other items include plates, cups and bowls, with animal shapes being favored by children. Stunkard says that 80% of pieces are “manufactured and made right here in our backyard,” by a family business based in Kellyville. “We purchase the molds which create the ceramics,” he says. Each piece needs to be painted and fired to become a finished product. There is a therapeutic nature to the process of working with ceramics, says Stunkard. “It is a calming experience,” he says. “It’s a huge component.” GINA A. DABNEY

Creating pottery at Purple Glaze is achievable for anyone, because no keen artistic ability is needed, nor is any experience. “That’s the beauty of it,” says Stunkard. “It is super easy.” While most participants are walk-ins, group classes consist of birthday parties and school outings. For a fee, the studio provides an item to paint, plus instruction, tools, brushes, aprons, paints, and the kiln for firing. Tools like stencils and stamps are available, as well as paints that burst in the kiln. At Paseo, taking a piece to the potter’s wheel or building a piece by hand is the main concept. Participants can build on their skills, step-by-step. “You learn the dance with your fingers,” says Rosebrook. “We help make it happen.” A monthly fee plus the clay gets you instruction, glazing and kiln time. Classes are available for individuals or groups, such as families and team-building workshops. Rosebrook compares the pottery process to learning music. First you learn a few notes, then you read and play from sheet music, until learning the whole piece is accomplished.

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Merry and Bright

The month of December is jam-packed with holiday events.

egardless if the weather is frightful or delightful, yuletide fun in Oklahoma is plentiful.

Tulsa

The 14th Annual Arvest Winterfest is certainly a highlight in Tulsa, running through Jan. 3. Featuring ice skating outside the BOK Center underneath the holiday lights, Winterfest offers money saving specials including half-off skating on Mondays with a canned food donation for Community Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma. And on Wednesday, you can get half off by gifting a new or like-new pair of gloves, a blanket, scarf or coat to benefit Night Light Tulsa. It’s a quick jaunt to Broken Arrow for Rhema Bible College’s free Christmas lights display of three million bulbs, running through Jan. 2. For many, it’s just not Christmas without attending a Tulsa Ballet performance of The

Nutcracker. This year’s blockbuster presentation, running Dec. 1019 at the Tulsa PAC, features brand new choreography by Val Caniparoli and Ma Cong as well as new costumes and sets by Tracy Grant Lord. Tulsa Symphony brings The Polar Express to the PAC on Dec. 4. The stirring music and performance-capture animation of the holiday film takes you on a visual and auditory journey, featuring the skills of guest conductor Ron Spigelman. Other community events in Tulsa include the Philbrook Festival through Dec. 31 – with lights, crafts, activities and art. And you won’t want to miss the Botanic Garden of Lights, running Thursdays-Sundays until Dec. 12 and nightly Dec. 16-Jan. 2. Lights, food trucks, music and more await at Tulsa Botanic Garden.

Oklahoma City

OKC brims in holiday cheer, including the Lyric Theatre presentation of A Christmas Carol, running through Dec. 23 at the Harn Homestead. For a Broadway spectacle of holiday cheer, The Christmas Show presented by the OKC Philharmonic runs Dec. 3-4 and includes star Rachel York at the Civic Center. Oklahoma City’s Downtown In December celebrates twenty years of holiday events and attractions in the heart of the city. Events include the Sixth Annual Lights On Broadway in Automobile Alley on Dec. 4 and 11, featuring lights and decorative displays along with pop-up shops, live music, photos with Santa and more. Also on Dec. 4, you can join the Saints Santa Run with family- and petfriendly fun. Celebrate the season on skates at Devon Ice Rink through Jan. 30 at Myriad Botanical Gardens. Feel the rush at LifeShare WinterFest and Snow Tubing, going strong through Dec. 31 at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. Stroll or drive to experience the Downtown Light Displays, where each OKC district is decked out in different displays of cheer. Curbside Chronicle’s Wrap Up Homelessness and Holiday Wreaths is held in various locations downtown, and employs individuals transitioning out of homelessness to sell the unique gift wrap packages and wreaths. Myriad Botanical Gardens is headquarters for Have Yourself a Myriad Little Christmas through Jan. 2, with special events and light displays throughout the season, including the Holiday mART in the Crystal Bridge Visitor Lobby. Don’t miss ’Tis the Season at Scissortail Park for a free concert, visits from Santa, a Menorah Lighting and much more through Jan. 1. Running through Dec. 19, Holiday Pop-Up Shops return to midtown with iconic geodesic domes along with the market tents and shops rotating weekly. TRACY LEGRAND

Downtown in December plunges OKC into holiday joy every year. Photos courtesy Downtown in December

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2021

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

No Man’s Land

This unclaimed area in Oklahoma’s panhandle acted as one of the final vestiges of the Wild West.

A man is pictured in what will become the state of Oklahoma, circa 1889. Area in the Panhandle was dubbed ‘No Mans Land’ until passage of the Organic Act in 1890, oﬀicially declaring it part of the state’s territory. Photo courtesy the Oklahoma Historical Society

he Oklahoma Panhandle may very well have been one of the last vestiges of the Wild West. The area, a strip of land bordering Texas, Kansas, New Mexico and Colorado, remained unclaimed, officially at least, until 1890. This meant that the rules were made, broken and enforced by the residents living there at the time. And, due to popular cattle trails through the area, there were a lot of people passing through, and, eventually, some who chose to stay. It should be noted that this part of the country was long inhabited and traversed by Indigenous people. Different groups moved in and out through the millennia, but by the 18th century, the area was controlled by the Comanches, with influences from the Kiowas, Kiowa-Apache, Cheyennes and Utes. The Red River War, started in 1874, led to the forced removal of these tribes into southwestern Indian Territory. “There would have been a lot of people going back and forth across [the area], on cattle trails, but there weren’t really any permanent European settlements,” says J. Seth Hammond, curator of the No Man’s Land Museum, part of the No Man’s Land Historical Society. To begin to understand why the boundaries ended up where they did, you’d have to go all the way back to just after the colonial

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2021

era in 1819 and the Adams-Onis federal public land. Treaty, says Hammond. This drew “So you start to see that by the far western border at the 100° this time, the early 1860s, there longitude line with the delineation is this area of territory out here of the U.S. and New Spain borders. that no one has really claimed,” says Hammond. “As other states In 1850, Texas ceded a large amount of land to the U.S. govern- and territories were drawing their boundaries, what is now the Oklament and the southern boundhoma Panhandle just kept getting ary of the future panhandle was left out.” drawn at 36°, Towns, such as 30 minutes N Beaver, Hardesty and latitude. This Optima, began to was because crop up in the area the Missouri in the late 1880s, Compromany of them along mise of 1820 known cattle trails, prohibited says Hammond. But slave-holding no one could technistates or Located in Goodwell near cally own the land, territories – Oklahoma Panhandle so the term No Man’s which Texas State University, the No Land came into use was – north Man’s Land Museum in the 1880s. of this point. strives to preserve the There were atAnd the history of the Panhandle tempts to get the southern and surrounding areas. area recognized as border of Visitors can learn how its own territory – Kansas was the Dust Bowl tragedy Cimarron Territory, drawn at aﬀected the area, see says Hammond. But 37°N in an there never were attempt to farming and ranchenough people or not encroach ing implements used interest to make upon Cherothrough history, 19th that happen. And by kee Outlet century carpentry tools, 1890, with the pasland, and as well as natural historisage of the Organic due to the cal artifacts, including Act, the panhandle existence of a collection of ancient officially became a slave-holding Paleoindian points and part of Oklahoma plantations fossils excavated by the territory. in the area. WPA in Kenton. BONNIE RUCKER This left a “strip” of

NO MAN’S LAND MUSEUM

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

Impact Around the Globe Leading the OKC-based World Neighbors, Kate Schecter helps communities across the world.

ate Schecter, PhD, had a passion for international development long before becoming president and CEO of World Neighbors – an Oklahoma City nonprofit that works to address poverty, disease and hunger in 13 Asian, African, Latin American and Caribbean countries. When Schecter was a child, her family moved to Moscow, where she learned to speak Russian. In college, she researched healthcare in various countries, eventually earning a doctorate from Columbia University. Schecter later returned to Russia to work with the American International Health Alliance for nearly 14 years. In 2014, Schecter discovered World Neighbors after receiving a recruitment letter from the organization. World Neighbors has served over 28 million people in 45 countries since its establishment in 1951. However, its holistic, big-picture approach is what caught Schecter’s attention. “We never give away in-kind donations of food or clothing,” says Schecter. World Neighbors doesn’t focus on one particular problem, either. Instead, the organization relies on the feedback of the communities it serves to better understand their needs. Based on their feedback, World Neighbors provides training and education in sustainable farming, gender equality, reproductive and community health, and resource management. “I saw that this methodology was really addressing a lot of the issues that I had seen as problems before,” says Schecter. “That’s what attracted me to the job.” Since joining World Neighbors, Schecter

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2021

Kate Schecter has visited each of the countries World Neighbors serves. Photo courtesy World Neighbors

invest in their community through its savings has made many adjustments to further its and credits program. mission. Early on, she proposed and adopted World Neighbors has placed equal emphaa business model that has streamlined the sis on improving community and reproducorganization’s administrative costs and tive health around the world. Some of its efexpanded its field work. forts include helping install In 2016, she raised bio-sand water filters and funds for the organization clean toilets in villages, to become independent, along with organizing and in 2018, she secured health fairs where people two grants from the Starcan get medical treatment bucks Foundation. These and vaccinations. grants enabled World You don’t have to Now, the organization is Neighbors to help 3,000 looking at expanding into travel overseas to befamilies in Guatemala. another African country, During her tenure, come well-informed Malawi. Schecter says Schecter has traveled to on world issues. World Neighbors has reall countries served to Schecter encourages ceived multiple requests for observe the impact of the everyone to pick a assistance there, and the programs firsthand. She country of personal nonprofit plans on providsays that World Neighbors interest and learn ing support in agriculture has especially made a difmore about it. and business development. ference for women living “You can do it by Anytime World Neighin these remote villages. watching movies about bors expands into a new “World Neighbors is those countries [or]… community, it stays there very focused on … helping for an average of 8–10 years women to have their own through novels and with the intent of promotincomes, to have a voice literature,” she says. ing sustainable, long-lastin the community, to beThe first step to ing change. come leaders, to become make a diﬀerence is “I’ve been in internaliterate,” says Schecter. to stay informed. She tional development for Under her leadership, encourages anyone 25 years. I’ve seen what World Neighbors has who is interested in beworks and what doesn’t,” established a federation coming involved with says Schecter. “I believe of women in India, which World Neighbors to this is the right way to help has grown to over 4,000 visit its website wn.org people.” members. It also helped or email info@wn.org. a community in TimorFAITH HARL Leste save $30,000 to

Becoming a Global Citizen

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Preserving the Past

Oklahoma’s first certified archivist helps communities hold onto history.

s Oklahoma’s first certified archivist, Bill Welge received certification from the national Academy of Certified Archivists in 1989. Welge (pronounced “Well-gee” with a hard “g”) says most communities have done a great job at holding onto their histories, but he’s concerned their collections won’t be around for future generations. “They’re sitting on a wonderful mountain of material, but they don’t know how to handle it,” he says. “They need better management, strategic planning, and to know how to preserve and present their collections. “Museums need the right circumstances to preserve historical items. And architectural visions need to be on the same page with archivists and preservationists. For example, be careful about windows – especially in tornado alley. Be aware of nearby water. Does it drain or flood?” Welge recommends rotating artifacts on display. Too many items creates sensory overload for museum-goers. Also, periodically store artifacts out of light where they can recuperate, and later bring them back as fresh exhibits. “Our state constitution is in an enclosed case at the state capitol,” he says. “But sometimes they take it off exhibit because it needs to rest. Most museums don’t un-

CREATING LEGACIES In 2016, Bill Welge and three others established 3 Cedars Consulting, LLC, a nonprofit counseling firm. They consult with tribes, libraries and archivists across the state. Their goals include preserving history,

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2021

Bill Welge (left) works with a variety of community leaders, businesses and individuals to preserve their histories. Photo courtesy Bill Welge

derstand this, and they don’t understand sensory overload. They want to put out everything.” Museum membership dues don’t generate enough finances to correctly preserve and maintain collections. So, Welge points groups toward grant monies. For instance, the Oklahoma Historical Society can help with the Historic Preservation Grant. Its annual application period runs from Sept. 1 to Oct. 15. In 2020, they received 80 proposals, and they funded nearly 40. “So there’s a lifeline for nonprofits that are run by volunteers, but have an abiding interest to preserve their history,” he says. Leadership at a small community library recently contracted with Welge to find out more about their roots. “They had little or nothing about their

educational outreach, computer refurbishing and environmental endeavors. “We want people to benefit from historical exhibits that are interesting instead of overwhelming,” he says. “And for small communities, their time to latch onto what they

history. The community has been there over 100 years. I’ve done interviews with local people, and I was able to find bits and pieces of their history,” he says. “We found great stuff that will help build community spirit with their collection. They’re very excited. And they’re bringing young people to the Oklahoma Historical Society this fall to do a museum study.” Welge spent almost 40 years at the OHS, retiring as director of the office of American Indian Culture and Preservation. He holds several university degrees including a master’s in Southwestern Studies. He serves on a variety of historical boards, and he makes himself available to groups needing help with their collections through consultations and workshops. CAROL MOWDY BOND

have and preserve it is running out.” 3 Cedars provides a grant writer, and has already oﬀers helpful guidance on handling historic collections. They’ve also helped established monarch butterfly waystations. For information, call 405-201-0039.

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Preparing for the Future

Whether it’s transitioning into a retirement community or getting one’s finances in order, Oklahoma experts know exactly how to set up seniors for success. Staying Connected

Adjusting to new circumstances is a challenging endeavor, whether you’re seven or 75. For seniors, however, shifting economic climates, changing health conditions and new living arrangements can compound this challenge. According to a document developed by the Centers for Disease Control, more than 74 million people will be over the age of 65 by 2030. The document, “Healthy Aging in Action: Advancing the National Prevention Strategy (HAIA),” identifies specific actions for healthy aging that are continuing to improve health and well-being in later life. The HAIA identifies three areas to advance healthy aging, including: promoting health, preventing injury and managing chronic conditions; optimizing physical, cognitive and mental health; and facilitating social engagement. “Isolation is such a big struggle for people who aren’t able to be on the go like they used to; especially during COVID,” says Ashley Simms, director of operations at Interim HealthCare of OKC. “Our nurses and field team absolutely form special bonds with our patients. It is a very vulnerable situation to allow someone to come in and assist you with some of your most private needs, such as bathing, understanding a new medication ... or just even trying to understand a new, and sometimes scary, diagnosis.” Facilitating social engagement can be one of the toughest obstacles for many

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2021

seniors to overcome, but communities in Oklahoma exist to make that obstacle easier to tackle. “We have a lot of resources,” says Stacy Axsom, director of sales at Cedarhurst Senior Living in Tulsa. “A lot of times, the biggest fear for seniors is: ‘I’ve been living in this house for 60 years, and I have 60 years’ worth of stuff. I really don’t even know what to do.’ A lot of times that fear can almost be like paralysis. We just want them to see that it’s not as difficult as it seems, and that every single person that has walked into this building and moved in here has gone through the exact same thing.” The staff at Cedarhurst, and facilities like it, work to create a community through planned events and social engagements. The environment then becomes one of positivity, where residents can engage with one another in healthy ways.

Money Matters

Transitioning to a new living space can be an overwhelming process, but the experience can be simplified if seniors work with a professional to prepare themselves financially, according to Andrew Flinton, president of Retirement Investment Advisors. “It’s just ingrained in us to say: ‘How can we help?’” says Flinton. “We always say that we don’t deal with portfolios, we deal with people. Our firm really specializes in retirees, so if you’re, in maybe the next five years, going to stop having an income,

there are a few very important things: First and foremost, have a really good understanding of what your budgetary requirements are going to be. Become intimately familiar with your expenses. Right alongside that, we always strive toward being debt-free, ideally, including the house prior to retirement. Those are basics.” The fundamentals of being debt-free, having cash reserves, and understanding budgetary requirements for retirement can ensure the transition is manageable. For some, that might seem impossible and, for them, Flinton recommends reaching out to a professional to help assess the situation. “With the rapid changes in this economy – the global economy, legislation – if you are not on the front end of those changes, it can be detrimental at times, and cost people tens if not hundreds of thousands of dollars in taxes just by not knowing the rules,” says Flinton. “I don’t care if you’ve got an advisor or not, you should talk to someone and get a second opinion. Having that ongoing guidance and having someone who is in your corner is invaluable.” Ultimately, the best outcomes are rooted in early preparation and developing an open line of communications with professionals to handle the unique challenges that come with retirement. “If we can help in some way, we want to,” says Flinton. LUKE REYNOLDS

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Call now (918) 380-1566 to schedule your tour. 7345 S. 99th East Ave. • Tulsa, OK 74133 CedarhurstWoodlandHills.com • Independent Living *Cedarhurst Promise™ program is only available at advertised community. Not applicable for respite or other short-term stays. Refund is available only if move out is a result of dissatisfaction with Cedarhurst community as documented throughout stay. Complete refund includes base rent, level of care charges, and community fee. Ancillary services fees (ex. additional transportation, pet fees and laundry charges) do not qualify for refund. Additional terms and conditions may apply. Please contact community for additional details. Void where prohibited. 24988 Cedarhurst.indd 1

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

The Curious Case of CJ Garton

Sometimes an independent, homegrown record can surprise you.

After riding 700 miles on horseback in 30 days, Oklahoma musician CJ Garton was inspired to create his newest record. Photo courtesy CJ Garton

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2021

n the last generation or so, the recording part of the country-music business changed dramatically. Back in the ’90s, when Oklahoma stars like Garth Brooks, Vince Gill and Ronnie Dunn were busy taking Nashville and the country listening public with the force of an F5 tornado, the important thing was getting a record deal. Being signed to a major label was a career benchmark, proof that you were on your way – or, at least, that your music had a better shot than ever at getting played on the radio and finding a national audience. Although there are still major labels in Nashville (and elsewhere), they’re now only one option in the recording smorgasbord made possible by the onrush of technology. The good part of this is that anyone with talent can produce his or her own music, release it on vinyl or CD or the internet, and not have

to struggle for years in hopes of signing with a label. The bad part is that because it’s so easy, acts that would’ve been weeded out and passed on by label personnel can get their music out anyway, independently, and there’s so much substandard product available that it threatens to suffocate the legitimately good stuff by sheer force of numbers. Or, to put it another way – these days, anyone can put out a recording, and that isn’t necessarily a good thing. But then, sometimes an independent, homegrown record can surprise you. And that brings us to CJ Garton, a sixth-generation cattle rancher and country singersongwriter who grew up on a ranch outside of Bristow. His new doublealbum set, Tales of the Ole West & Other Libations to Please the Palate, released by his own G-Bar Records, is top-notch all the way, with excellent production values and tough, knowing, often highly personal lyrics, rendered in an authentic honky-tonk baritone that recalls the likes of Dunn and Johnny Paycheck. It’s the work of someone who knew what he was doing during every step of the record-making process, including the design of the vinyl album, which boasts a holographic cover (by Scott Youtsey, a Claremore-

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based artist and longtime Garton fan) and some surprise features (which Garton is loath to give away). Even if you didn’t know anything about Garton, one listen to Tales of the Ole West would let you know that he’s no rookie; every song sounds not only authentic, but also carries the weight of hard-earned experience. So it’s no surprise to find that Garton has done plenty of time in Music City; in fact, he still travels between Nashville and the family ranch. “I was 22 years old when I got to Nashville, and that’s 16 years ago,” he says. “I loaded up a school bus I’d bought off my grandad, and we took the back half of the seats out and made a little-bitty living quarters. I just came out here [to Nashville] cold turkey. “I had this vision in my brain of what Nashville was by listening to the legends that were probably around when my dad was a kid,” he adds. “So my version of what Nashville was, was different. Honestly, I had to get through that.” And that meant finding people who thought and felt the same way about country music that he did – which often wasn’t easy. “To me, songs spoke to my heart,” he explains. “They’re what saved my life as a kid, growing up. They’re what helped mold me into understanding others. I wanted to be the person to move here and make that kind of music and carry on that kind of tradition. “I had some success. I’ve had songs cut by Tanya Tucker, David Allan Coe. I’ve been able to work with legends, and when you’re sitting next to someone you grew up listening to on the radio, and they’re singing your song and discussing it – that’s a very unreal feeling, but a very proud one.” As a recording artist, he adds, “I signed some deals. I lost some deals. Had a lot of things occur. I learned a lot. For everything that Nashville is, it’s matured me into the artist I am today. It’s kept me on my toes.” A couple of years ago, with some eight albums behind him, he “broke off ” with his Nashville label and returned to the ranch outside Bristow. “Going back home for me was always a reset,” says Garton. “I knew I had to be back home, to take care of the ranch, take care of the family, the cattle, Grandpa. And when I did, it all helped me know where the music really came from, where the heart of it really was.” That feeling was reinforced by what can only be called an unusual trip from Tennessee to Oklahoma. “I’d trained two horses, Pancho and Lefty,

and I asked my son, who was 13 at the time, if he’d go with me if I decided to ride from Nashville to Oklahoma on horseback. I’d broken off my label, and I said, ‘I need to do this, and I kinda want you to do this with me.’ “And he said, ‘Yeah, I’ll do it with you.’ “I think he thought I was joking at the time. But we rode almost 700 miles on horseback in 30 days, and it was life-changing.” He chuckles. “We just rode across the country, and people kept finding us. Radio stations would come out and talk to us, newspapers would get wind of us and they’d meet us when we were sitting in our hammocks, having lunch, letting the horses eat. People would come out and take pictures and bring apples and bananas for the horses. “The first week in, my son looked at me. He had tears in his eyes, and he said, ‘I didn’t know what to expect from this. It’s pretty crazy what’s happening. But, from the way people have been with us, I have restored faith in humanity.’ “To have your 13-year-old kid tell you that was worth the entire trip,” he notes. There were other positives Garton gleaned from the experience. “It was what I needed,” he says. “It also gave me the opportunity to ask real people about the music. I needed to know if I was dragging myself and my family through something that’s not going to see fruition. Was I chasing something that, like people are saying, is dead?” He found out, however, that the traditional country-music style he loved “was very much alive. People just aren’t getting it – and they’re missing it. So when we got back, we put the horses out to pasture, and I went to work. And that’s all I’ve done since then. It’s been so organic and natural.” It’s also been a success. The first thousand copies of Tales of the Ole West & Other Libations to Please the Palate – co-produced by the noted Nashville session fiddler and Time Jumpers member Joe Spivey, whom Garton calls “one of the most talented and kindest people I’ve ever met” – sold out via preorders in three weeks, so G-Bar Records is planning a release of another thousand, featuring an alternate holographic cover, in January. “Things just seem to keep falling into place,” he says. “And that’s proof that we’re on the right path now, that the timing is right and everything is right. That’s something you have to wait for. You have your time, and you have God’s time, and right now I think we’re on the same page.” JOHN WOOLEY

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FINANCIAL ADVISOR How can I combat inflation risks in retirement? Inflation rates are the highest they’ve been in many years, which creates challenges for all consumers, but especially for those who are retired and living on a limited income. Here are a few tips: Keep it in perspective: Today’s inflation rate of 5% is high by recent standards, DAVID KARIMIAN CFP®, CRPC®, APMA® but nowhere near a record. Revisit your expenses: If the cost of essential items and discretionary expenses are busting your budget, you explore ways to cut back. Adjust your investments: Is your portfolio properly positioned to keep pace with inflation? It may make sense to keep a portion of your assets invested in stocks. Look at other options to improve your position: If you are experiencing financial strains as living costs rise, you may want to consider a part-time job or consulting.

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LIFE & STYLE

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

Wells Christmas Trees in Oklahoma City opened at the end of November for families seeking a festive addition to their living rooms this season. Photo courtesy Wells Christmas Trees

FYI

Christmas Tree 101

From choosing the right type to taking care of disposal, securing the right Christmas tree is crucial. Experts are on hand to help.

Quick Tips “If you have small children, we would recommend staying away from the Blue Spruce,” says Wells. “They have very sharp needles that hurt when grabbed. On the other hand, if you have pets, this may be a good tree to keep them away.” To keep things chaos-free, place fragile or heirloom ornaments higher up on the tree to protect them from breaking.

othing quite beats the annual outing to pick out a perfect tree for holiday celebrations. And, says Bill Jacobs of Owasso Tree Farm, “the freshest tree you can buy is one you cut yourself, grown on an Oklahoma Christmas tree farm.”

First Steps

Planning for your tree should start before you leave for a farm. Pick a spot for the tree and know how much room it will take up. “Make sure the tree you pick will fit into the space you have designated,” says Jacobs. Once at the farm, “bend needles to make sure they are not dry and brittle,” he says. Jesse Wells, who owns Wells Christmas Tree Farm in Norman with his wife Katy, says trees should be chosen based on what individual families prefer. “But different trees have different branch strength, so you should consider the size of ornaments you plan on hanging on the tree,” he notes. Have someone in your household

who is allergic to most Christmas trees? Wells says that the Leyland Cypress is a sterile, hybrid tree that’s hypo allergenic and does not produce any pollen.

At Home

Once you’ve selected your tree and gotten it home, “make a fresh cut on the bottom of the tree just before placing in the stand,” says Jacobs. “This will open up the pores and allow the tree to drink water.” He advises using only fresh water for your tree, and not listening to the stories about putting sugar, aspirin or honey in the water. “You need a stand with at least a two-gallon capacity,” he adds. “A tree can drink one quart of water per day, per inch of trunk diameter. A six-inch tree trunk will need one and a half gallons of water per day, so check the water daily. We guarantee if your stand ever goes dry, [the tree] will die. Place your tree away from heat vents, a fireplace and west sun windows.”

Disposal

Jacobs has an easy tree disposal solu-

tion for his clients. “We ask our customers to return their trees to us,” he says. “Fishermen pick them up and take them to area lakes for fish habitat.” Wells also offers some advice for disposal in OKC. “You can chip or mulch your used tree,” he advises. “Lots of cities allow you to bring them to their compost facility free of charge after Christmas. If you have some space, you can just leave it out somewhere, as the wild animals love them for habitat.” Both Owasso Tree Farm and Wells Christmas Tree Farm have plenty of both self-cut and pre-cut trees this year, with opening days at the end of the November. “There is nothing like a real Christmas tree,” says Wells. “From the joy of your family going out to a local farm to pick one out, to decorating and gathering around a tree with their wonderful smells, they definitely make Christmas more Christmas-y.” DEBI TURLEY

DECEMBER 2021 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

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

Living the Island Life

Off the southeastern coast of Georgia, you’ll find a hidden treasure trove of beautiful, luxurious islands.

O Above: Sea Island’s Spanish Lounge gives guests a splash of festivity in the winter months. Below: The Garden Atrium at the Sea Island spa invites pure relaxation. All photos courtesy Sea Island Tourism

n a wedge of pure pleasure just off the southeastern Georgia coast lies a resort that’s really a complex of lodgings, stretching across the private entity of Sea Island and into St. Simon’s Island. It’s called Sea Island Resort, anchored by the marvelous Roaring Twenties-era hotel that started it all, the one with the gorgeous twin iconic towers: the Cloister. The Cloister Beach Club is nearby, as are the Ocean Residenc-

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2021

es, the Lodge, the Inn at Sea Island and the Cottages. And then there’s Broadfield, the resort’s sporting club, providing adventures on 5,800 acres dedicated to hunting, shooting, fishing and falconry. We can thank the fellow who gave us Hudson automobiles, Howard Coffin, for opening the graceful 1.5-mile Sidney Lanier suspension bridge the same year the Cloister was built, 1928. Motorists suddenly had easy access to Sea Island and the three other Golden Isles barrier islands: St. Simon’s, Jekyll and Little St. Simon’s. At the mainland end of the bridge, the historic port city of Brunswick is great fun. Yes, Sea Island is private, purchased most recently by Philip Anschutz in 2016. The family also owns the Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, whose architecture, Mediterranean Revival, mirrors that of the Cloister. The Broadmoor as we know it today has been adorning Cheyenne Mountain since 1918. Not a bad run so far for two resorts: 196 years.

Three championship golf courses call the islands home. Totally lose yourself in the sport at the Lodge, an easy pitching wedge from both the Seaside and Plantation courses, home of the PGA tour’s RSM Classic. Also on site, a challenging 18hole putting course, the au courant 17,000-square-foot Golf Performance Center and a large oceanfront pool. Live oaks line your way. The Lodge is one of four Sea Island properties to qualify for the Forbes Five-Star award. The others are the Cloister and its restaurant, the Georgian Room, along with the Spa at Sea Island. In fact, the resort is the only one in the world to have received Forbes’ Five-Star awards for 13 consecutive years. The Cloister is in the heart of Sea Island: exposed-beam ceilings, wood furnishings, Turkish rugs, a full-service spa and access to five miles of private beach. Down at the Sea Island Beach Club, three sprawling pools (with poolside service) will soothe your cares away, sur-

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Spa

On-the-water activities, including kayaking, are plentiful at Sea Island.

This is the spa of your dreams. Remember, it’s Forbes Five-Star rated, so there are things like a eucalyptus-infused steam room, mineral pool baths, couples suites with private balconies and a water atrium with hydrotherapy pool and waterfall. A well-equipped fitness facility and hair/nail salon are on premises.

Food

You’ll find it difficult to diet on Sea Island, not with more than a dozen eateries calling your name. The menus range from fine dining, Mexican and traditional steakhouse to French, casual and a bowling alley with fare to match. Of note: Tavola, the island’s treasured rustic Italian restaurant, is excellent. However, the Georgian Room in the Cloister is currently closed for renovations and will be through the end of 2021. Its reopen date was uncertain as of this writing.

Shopping

The temptations are aplenty on Sea Island, with about a dozen high-end shops supplying men’s and women’s apparel, kids wear and gifts. In the Cloister, there’s a Peter Millar Collection shop and in

the spa, there are stores called Spatique and Beautique that carry products from Lululemon, Babor and Eberjey. Georgia’s Atlantic coast is an important nesting ground for threatened and endangered sea turtles. Sea Island Resort is doing its part by offering Sea Turtle Dawn Patrols, educational programs on the creatures’ nesting and hatching habits and sponsored habitat walks, bike rides and what they call “coastal encounters.” CHUCK MAI

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L I F E & S T Y L E | H E A LT H

Inside Restless Legs Syndrome More than just an urge to move, RLS can have serious long-term side effects.

pproximately seven to 10% of Americans have restless legs syndrome (RLS) – also known as Willis-Ekbom disease – according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS). RLS is characterized by an overwhelming sensation to constantly move the legs and is worse at night, which causes those with RLS to lose sleep, develop a mental fog and feel fatigued. NINDS reports that untreated moderate to severe RLS can lead to nearly a 20% decrease in work productivity and can contribute to depression and anxiety. “Restless legs syndrome can be described as many different things by different individuals,” says Chee Yoon Bauer, MD, pediatric sleep medicine specialist with Oklahoma Children’s Hospital – OU Health. “People say their legs have discomfort, pain, cramps, etc., but it is diagnosed when the person’s symptoms meet a specific set of criteria. [RLS] is an uncomfortable feeling caused by an urge to move the legs, rather than actual pain or cramps that may stem from other causes.” When a person keeps their legs in motion, the ‘urge’ gets better, but quickly

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2021

returns when they keep their legs still. This overwhelming feeling of restlessness occurs more frequently during the evening and night but can also happen when a person is sitting for a long period of time, such as during travel or when watching a movie. “Also, despite the name of the condition, sometimes arms and other parts of the body can also be affected,” says Bauer, adding that a sleep study is not needed to diagnose RLS. According to NINDS, more than 80% of RLS patients also experience periodic limb movement of sleep (PLMS) – a condition where the legs, and sometimes the arms, involuntarily twitch or jerk often, every 15 to 40 seconds, throughout the night. However, while many people with RLS develop PLMS, most individuals with PLMS do not experience RLS. Bauer says RLS is more common in older adults, but can afflict younger people with a family history. For individuals with that family history, symptoms may begin to appear in their twenties or thirties. “For adults, prevalence is twice as high in women than in men, but in children, girls and boys seem to be equally affected,” she says. “Some other conditions that may increase your risk of having RLS include iron deficiency, pregnancy and chronic renal failure. Some medications like antidepressants can also cause you to have RLS.” REBECCA FAST

RLS TREATMENT When treating RLS, Bauer says that typically the first thing to do is to optimize the body’s iron storage. “This is done with iron supplementation to increase the ferritin above a certain level,” she says. “If you continue to have RLS symptoms despite adequate iron storage, then medications would be indicated. For adults, we often start with a medication called ropinirole. For children, we would trial a medication called gabapentin.” While there is no cure for RLS, there are many treatments available that can ease symptoms. In addition, some individuals may have periods of remission and go without symptoms for days, weeks, months or years.

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LIFE & ST YLE | OUTSIDE THE METRO The Guthrie Territorial Christmas Foundation oﬀers numerous holiday-centric events in December, including a Distinctive Homes Tour and Victorian Walks. Photo courtesy Guthrie Territorial Christmas Foundation

Celebrating Our First Capital

Guthrie is the place to be in December for a variety of festive happenings, plus unique architecture.

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xcitement is in the air in Guthrie, Oklahoma’s first capital, as the city anticipates a celebration on two levels. Guthrie residents commemorate not only the holiday season, but the return of the historic downtown celebration itself after a year absence due to COVID-19. The annual December holiday extravaganza is just one of the ways that Guthrie remains a city rich in Oklahoma history and architectural charm. Kailyn Swonger, vice president of the Guthrie Territorial Christmas Foundation, says the foundation board is eager to get the party started. “We’ll have all the traditional events,” says Swonger. These include the traditional Victorian Christmas Walks – in which townspeople and others don period costumes on Dec. 4 and Dec. 11 – and a Distinctive Homes Tour on Dec. 4, featuring several of Guthrie’s most unique homes and businesses decorated in seasonal finery. Swonger says the organizers’ goal is to embody the Christmas spirit in Guthrie, a city of just under 11,000 according to the 2020 census. Once little more than a prairie stop on the AT&S Railroad, Guthrie became a city of about 10,000 practically overnight following

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2021

the April 22, 1889, land run that opened the Unassigned Lands to white settlement. Oklahoma Territory was created by Congress in 1890, with Guthrie as the capital, then the town was designated as the state’s capital when statehood arrived in 1907. A symbolic ceremony took place on the steps of the Guthrie Carnegie Library on Nov. 16, 1907, “wedding” Oklahoma Territory and Indian Territory. The library is now part of the Guthrie Territorial Museum, operated by the Oklahoma Historical Society. Nathan Turner, museum director, says the collection traces Oklahoma’s history from the Louisiana Purchase through statehood. A massive restoration project in recent years has earned Guthrie recognition as the nation’s Largest Historic Preservation District, according to the Guthrie Chamber of Commerce. Turn-of-the-century, Victorian-style architecture and cobblestone streets add to the city’s charm. “There is just so much history here,” says Chamber member Vivian Smith. “You can walk around and read the [historical] plaques all over downtown.” Verla Cline, tourism coordinator for the City of Guthrie, says that after Guthrie lost the state capital, the town focused on preserving its history.

“We got frozen in time,” she says. “Our buildings have become our greatest asset.” Six major festivals are planned for 2022, starting with the ’89ers Day event in April. Tourists will find plenty of places to stay, from hotels along Interstate 35 to several quaint bed and breakfasts closer to town. Among attractions are the Lazy E Arena northeast of Guthrie, and the rebuilt Double Stop Fiddle Shop and Music Hall downtown, which was owned by legendary fiddler Byron Berline, who died earlier this year. Other attractions are the State Capital Publishing Museum, the Oklahoma Frontier Drugstore Museum, the 1930s-era Jelsma Stadium, and the Pollard Theatre, once a funeral parlor and later a vaudeville theater. Also worth seeing is the Scottish Rite Temple, located near the downtown area, which includes the Legislative Hall where the state legislature’s first session was held. Outdoor recreation abounds in and around Guthrie. Not only are various water sports available at Liberty Lake and Guthrie Lake, the heavily wooded Cimarron National and Cedar Valley golf complexes west of the city offer a combined 72 holes of scenic championship golf. HENRY DOLIVE

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OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2021

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GREAT

COMPANIES TO WORK FOR

By Mary Willa Allen and Tracy LeGrand

Pinpointing what makes a business ‘great’ can be challenging. Is it the atmosphere? The leadership? The fulfilling work? Benefits, vacation time, supportive co-workers, flexibility? In truth, a company worth working for likely has all those and more. Oklahoma Magazine’s Great Companies to Work For feature gives readers a peek behind the curtain at numerous successful enterprises. From healthcare systems to higher education institutions, law firms, manufacturing plants and tech behemoths, the state abounds with businesses that positively impact the state ... and the lives of their loyal employees.

DECEMBER 2021| WWW.OKMAG.COM

Keeping it Simple

Utilizing the Golden Rule, Wallace Design Collective and its CEO, Tom Hendrick, attract and retain top talent through an absence of micromanagement and extra doses of respect, creativity, professionalism and flexibility. Creating a great workplace environment “is not rocket science, in my opinion,” says Tom Hendrick, the president and CEO of Wallace Design Collective. In fact, it’s pretty simple to him: “My philosophy has been to treat people like we would like to be treated,” he says. Hendrick says the 200 or so people who work at Wallace’s five locations are professionals, “and we treat them professionally. We leave it up to them, how to get their work done. We don’t make a lot of rules and regulations. We don’t have a lot of turnover, once people come to work for us.” Tulsa is headquarters for the company, which partners with architects and provides structural engineering, civil engineering and landscape architecture with additional locations in Oklahoma City, Atlanta, Denver and Kansas City. Projects run the gamut, from small remodeling jobs to the massive Miami Beach Convention Center renovation, Hendrick says, and they include school buildings, healthcare facilities, manufacturing centers and retailers such as Walmart, a longtime client. Some projects involve rehabilitating older structures that have outlived their original purposes. “Adaptive re-use reduces urban sprawl and has a low impact on the environment,” the company says on its website. And Wallace puts that belief to use in its own headquarters, which was a former grocery warehouse and a metal casting foundry built in 1927. Wallace has a slew of recognitions already under its belt: It was named the 50th top engineering firm in the nation by Giants 400 Top Engineering Firms (as compiled

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2021

by Building Design & Construction) in 2020, along with being named the 11th top retail design firm in the nation by Giants 400 Top Engineering+ EA Firms. “We believe that we have more fun doing our job than just about anyone else,” the company’s website reads. “Wallace doesn’t operate as a series of separate offices. Each office is part of the whole, allowing us to bring together the individual talents required – regardless of location – to produce projects that are seamless. Projects that flow. Projects that delight.” The employees, Hendrick says, “got into this business to build cool stuff that makes life better for others. To make lives better is our core purpose.” The company’s namesake, Tom Wallace, founded the business in 1981, with the “goal of having eight employees with a computer on every desk,” says Hendrick. “So he overachieved.” Hendrick continues: “He was founder and CEO for the first 35 or so years. He turned that over to me five years ago. He’s been a great mentor to me, and gave me great opportunities to work into this position.” The firm was created as Wallace Engineering Structural Consultants, with civil engineering added in the early 1990s. “When we added landscape architecture, we needed to look at a name change,” says Hendrick. “We were registered in all 50 states. A lot goes into a name change,” which went into effect on June 1. Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, Wallace offered its employees the flexibility of working from home as needed to accommodate a sick spouse or child, keep a medical appointment or meet a repair person. “When COVID hit, it was pretty

easy to send people home,” says Hendrick. “We still have some highrisk people who remain at home.” Additionally, employees are given time off to volunteer. “We leave it up to each office, they select one nonprofit each year,” says Hendrick. This year, the Tulsa office chose the Community Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma. As for the company’s success with clients, “my view is the way we distinguish ourselves is about the service we provide,” says Hendrick. “Our clients always tell us that we are very responsive. We return phone calls and emails and texts in a timely manner, doing everything we can to hit the deadlines.” In the Wallace Design Collective’s collaborations with architects, “we want them to think of us as their partners. We do everything we can to make them look good and hit their deadlines.” Although Tulsa is the smallest of the cities where offices are located, the headquarters remain there, with 110 employees. Why? Because that’s where it all started 40 years ago, Hendrick says, and the employees like living there. “I started my career in Oklahoma City, and I always thought Tulsa was a pretty cool city,” he says. Going above and beyond can also mean incorporating small, thoughtful touches. For example, about 15 years ago, the company launched the practice of sending gift cards to the significant others of new employees within a couple of weeks of their being hired. “We tell them we’re glad their spouse or significant other has joined Wallace,” says Hendrick. “We want them to go out and celebrate their new position here.” Wallace also sends gifts when children join the families of its employees. “We have bibs and onesies with our logo on them,” says Hendrick. “Those have been a big hit.” KIMBERLY BURK

Tom Hendrick took the reins of Wallace Design Collective about five years ago. Utilizing the Golden Rule, Hendrick operates with a focus on respecting and trusting his employees, leading to low turn-over, happy employees and great success. Photo by Stephanie Phillips

DECEMBER 2021| WWW.OKMAG.COM

KKT Architects

TULSA With an array of projects, including the upcoming AAON Exploration Center, KKT Architects is a full-service architecture, interiors and engineering firm oﬀering everything from interior design and structural engineering to master planning, feasibility studies and conceptual design. In business since 1989, KKT works to curate a “vibrant, dynamic and creative” company culture.

MATRIX Architects Engineers Planners, Inc.

GREAT

COMPANIES TO WORK FOR

TULSA From the iconic BOK Center to world-class projects in the commercial, education, wellness and industrial sectors, MATRIX Architects Engineers Planners, Inc., delivers excellence with a focus on each client’s individual needs. The team believes each client is unique, meaning each project is unique, too.

Rand Elliott Architects

OKC A multi-disciplinary design firm specializing in space planning, lighting design, historical preservation, architectural design and master planning, Rand Elliott’s projects garner heaps of praise, including over 350 recognitions for architectural excellence and ten national AIA honor awards.

TriArch

TULSA A Native American-owned firm, TriArch is led by owner/principal AIA Scott Vrooman, who fosters a culture of empathy and authority. Specializing in purpose-driven architecture, TriArch’s projects span the tribal, education, religious, residential, wellness and commercial industries. TriArch creates spaces that help everyone to connect, thus empowering its clients to impact others.

All photos courtesy the businesses unless otherwise marked.

ACCOUNTING Eide Bailly LLP

NORMAN, OKC AND TULSA With 40 oﬀices in 14 states, Eide Bailly LLP was founded in 1917 and stands among the top 25 certified public accounting firms in the nation. More than 2,500 staﬀ members are ready to assist clients with an array of financial matters, from starting a business to audit and assurance.

HoganTaylor

OKC AND TULSA More than 100 certified public accountants can help with accounting, business advisory, wealth management and other specialty financial needs at HoganTaylor, one of the nation’s largest accounting firms. It was recently named No. 87 on Inside Public Accounting’s Top 100 List.

ARCHITECTURE Dewberry

TULSA Devoted to the community and holding client-centric values, family-owned Dewberry oﬀers architecture, construction, engineering, consulting, mapping and survey services. With more than 50 locations nationwide, Dewberry had $463.14 million in 2020 revenue.

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2021

GH2 Architects

OKC AND TULSA Architecture and design firm GH2 Architects is 48 years strong, with more than 100 major awards, thousands of projects, and unmatched expertise in the areas of hospitality, equine, education, government, healthcare and historic preservation. GH2 has completed projects in 48 states and 13 countries. KKT Architects, Tulsa

AAON Exploration Center Rendering

BANKING, FINANCE & INVESTING Ameriprise Financial

STATEWIDE For over 125 years, Ameriprise has provided financial planning products and services, including asset management, insurance annuities, wealth manage-

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ment and estate planning, to its varied clients. With industry leading insights and resources, Ameriprise helps people reach their financial goals.

Arvest

STATEWIDE Arvest can be found in Oklahoma, Arkansas, Kansas and Missouri and is one of the largest banks in the nation, with assets totaling over $26 billion. Services include personal and business banking, home loans, wealth management, investment help and more. Despite its large size, Arvest still focuses on staying active in the numerous communities it serves, with a commitment to protecting its members privacy.

Bank of America

STATEWIDE Headquartered in Charlotte, NC, Bank of America is a multinational investment bank and financial services resource, founded in 1998. The company can assist in estate planning, home and auto loans, investing, as well as traditional banking services.

BOK Financial

TULSA BOK Financial was founded in 1910 and offers a variety of services, including traditional banking, loans and wealth management. The BOKF Foundation has contributed almost $95 million to community efforts in support of economic development, education and assistance to the vulnerable. OKC, NORMAN AND TULSA Founded by Charles Robert Schwab in 1971, the firm describes itself as a “champion of investors and those who serve them.” With the primary goal of putting the client first, Schwab is a full-service wealth management leader dedicated to achieving better financial outcomes for all they serve. STATEWIDE More than 40 million people, 22,000 businesses and 13,500 financial institutions lean on the expert staff at Fidelity Investments, who provide insight into the entire market with innovative investment and technology solutions. The end goal? To strengthen and secure clients’ financial well-beings. STATEWIDE An OKC-based retail bank and financial services corporation, First Fidelity Bank has been serving Oklahoma since 1920. Offerings include personal, commercial and small business banking; a variety of loan services; and personal, business and investment planning.

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2021

Mabrey Bank

STATEWIDE With Oklahoma roots that date back to 1924, familyowned and operated Mabrey Bank offers private and business banking services at 15 locations statewide. With a “best of both worlds” approach, Mabrey can give its clients friendly and flexible service along with competitive, cutting-edge technology to rival national banking chains. Committed to being good corporate citizens, leadership and employees at Mabrey invest into Oklahoma with both financial contributions and volunteer efforts at over 100 organizations annually. STATEWIDE As a wealth management and investing division of Bank of America, Merrill offers a variety of investment options and methods, including the self-directed Merrill Edge: with tools and financial insights as well as guided investment strategy programs monitored by professional advisors. STATEWIDE With over $31.3 billion in assets, MidFirst Bank is the largest privately owned bank in the U.S., serving 900,000 customers. Based in OKC, MidFirst offers a full range of financial services, including personal,

commercial, private, mortgage and trust banking. With an emphasis on loyalty, MidFirst employees – described as “thoughtful, intelligent and honest professionals” by CEO Jeﬀ Records – are committed to the clients and communities they serve.

Regent Bank

STATEWIDE Founded in 1898 in Nowata, Regent Bank oﬀers cash management, mobile deposits, a slew of personal and business banking services, as well as oﬀerings to assist small and mid-market businesses with their goals. Providing award-winning service, Regent strives to be the region’s premier business bank.

UBS Wealth Management

OKC UBS Wealth Management, founded in 1862 and headquartered in Zurich, has more than 70,000 employees worldwide. The firm specializes in mortgage planning, digital experience, retirement planning, financial planning and more, with goals to connect people and reimagine the power of investing.

Vast Bank

TULSA Serving northeastern Oklahoma, independent and locally-owned Vast Bank has oﬀered full service business and personal banking for 35 years. Vast is also the first nationally chartered U.S. bank that allows the purchase, sale and holding of cryptocurrency assets directly within one’s bank account.

COMMUNICATION AT&T

STATEWIDE AT&T is a top-tier broadband connectivity provider that connects clients around the world with technology, entertainment, news and advertising. The company has been transforming the modern media game for more than 140 years, with a company emphasis on diversity, equity and inclusion.

First Fidelity Bank

STATEWIDE With origins that trace back to 1799, JP Morgan Chase now harbors trillions of dollars in client assets. The company, TriArch, Tulsa which strives to drive an “equitable and inclusive economy,” provides investment services and products to its varied clients, with a commitment to help close the racial wealth gap.

MidFirst Bank

Fidelity Investments

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invests in its communities, a legacy begun in 1983. Oﬀerings range from personal and business banking to commercial and business loans and a variety of helpful lending resources. With 10 locations across Oklahoma, First National Bank specializes in small and middle-market lending and aims to “grow with you and be your bank for life.”

Cox Communications Williams, Tulsa

STATEWIDE The largest division of Cox Enterprises, Cox Communications serves approxi-

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education and industrial to retail, entertainment and healthcare. The company aspires to be among the top fifty contractors in the country by 2027.

Flintco

OKC AND TULSA Founded in 1908, Flintco oﬀers a full range of construction services, including design-build, management, general contracting, and project and program management. Other self-performing capabilities include process piping, steel erection, excavation and underground infrastructure.

Manhattan Construction Group

STATEWIDE For more than 120 years, Manhattan Construction has provided building and construction services that include preconstruction, construction management, along with general building and program management. Serving varied industries – from aviation and civil to sports, recreation and higher education – Manhattan has completed projects across the U.S., the Caribbean, Mexico and Central America.

Ditch Witch

People who work at Ditch Witch are, every year, given a Thanksgiving turkey and a Christmas ham. “We still do, and always will,” says Scott Pevey, senior manager of marketing . “It’s a small gesture of thanks to each employee.” The world-renowned trenching equipment firm got its start in Perry in 1949, when founder Ed Malzahn “was trying to solve a problem for a friend,” Pevey says. When water lines were run from mains to houses, “that would take days, with many men with picks and shovels,” he says. “[Malzahn] wanted to create a machine to do the job.” The first service-line trencher was built that year, “and that’s where this all started,” says Pevey. “Seventy-two years later, we have distribution and we sell on six continents in more than 120 countries.” The factory employs over 1,000 people in a facility that’s 33 acres – all under one roof. “The equipment we make here is best-inclass in our industry,” he says. “We power people’s lives by making those things available.” Ditch Witch, Pevey says, “is a great place to work for building a career, and being a part of something that has a very special place in history and has a very bright future.” Malzahn, born in Oklahoma in 1921, studied mechanical engineering at what is now Oklahoma State University. He was inducted into the OSU Engineering Hall of Fame in 1966 and the Oklahoma Hall of Fame in 1985 before his passing in 2015 at age 94.

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2021

mately 6.5 million total homes and businesses in 18 states. With an array of digital cable television, telecommunications and home automation services, Cox employs 18,000 people nationwide. Looking to the future, the company has invested billions of dollars in the communities it serves, helping to create infrastructure to better deliver services. A leader in customer satisfaction, Cox has earned 34 awards from J.D. Power and Associates.

Nabholz Construction Corp.

STATEWIDE Founded in 1949, Nabholz oﬀers construction, facility maintenance, custom fabrication, environmental hazard services, and machinery moving and installation. The company’s charitable foundation, created in 1987, has contributed millions to community and charitable organizations, schools and hospitals. Guiding principles include safety, quality, service and innovation.

Ross Group

Public Strategies

OKC Public Strategies provides management, strategic planning and communications services to private and public sectors. Handling everything from program design and consulting to storytelling and marketing, Public Strategies translates theory into practice for its clients.

OKC AND TULSA Founded as a small contracting company in 1979, privately owned and operated Ross Group has since grown to provide industry-leading services in construction development, engineering and facility and EPC projects for government-sector and private clients nationwide, with more than 150 employees at four oﬀices.

CONSTRUCTION

CREDIT UNION

Cowen Construction

Communication Federal Credit Union

OKC AND TULSA A part of the Oklahoma construction landscape since 1896, Cowen Construction oﬀers a vast portfolio that includes projects in the healthcare, education, banking and industrial sectors. Notable projects include The Health Zone at Saint Francis, Tinker Federal Credit Union and Clary Sage College.

STATEWIDE Founded in 1939 as Pioneer Bell Credit Union and

Crossland Construction Co. OKC AND TULSA Ivan ‘Red Iron’ Crossland, Sr., founded Crossland Construction in 1977; today, Crossland is a multi-company entity with locations across the region. Still family owned and operated, Crossland’s expertise encompass myriad industries, from

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should be the center of its business model. Oﬀering traditional, transitional and contemporary styles, Fabricut is the “designer’s preference” for everything from fabrics and trimmings to wallcoverings, decorative drapery hardware, furniture, finished product, rugs and leather.

ENERGY Chesapeake Energy

OKC Chesapeake Energy, with an industry-leading portfolio of unconventional, onshore oil and natural gas assets, is headquartered in OKC and focuses on delivering a “profitable and sustainable future” for all. Core values include integrity, trust, respect, transparency and commercial focus.

Magellan Midstream Partners

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headquartered in OKC, Communication Federal Credit Union now serves nearly 100,000 members at 23 branches in two states. With over $1.6 billion in assets, CFCU has been named by Forbes as the No. 1 credit union in the state in 2020 and 2021.

Oklahoma Central Credit Union

TULSA Oklahoma Central Credit Union oﬀers a full array of financial products and services, including mobile banking/deposit, online bill pay, money management, credit scores and reports, financial planning and more. Started in 1941 with 27 charter members and $628 in assets, OCCU has grown exponentially but has kept the same mission: to make a diﬀerence in the lives of employees, members and the communities it serves.

Tinker Federal Credit Union

STATEWIDE Headquartered in OKC, Tinker Federal Credit Union oﬀers investment and financial planning services including loan pre-approvals, general banking and financial coaching. With more than 435,000 members and $5.7 billion in assets, Tinker is Oklahoma’s largest credit union, oﬀering its members low fees, high dividends and competitive interest rates. Founded in 1946, Tinker’s mission continues to be providing the best financial services and convenience for its members using sound The Orthopaedic Center, Tulsa financial principles.

TTCU Federal Credit Union

TULSA Originally known as Tulsa Teachers Credit Union when established in 1934, TTCU Federal Credit Union is now the second-largest credit union in Oklahoma with $2.5 billion in assets. The institu

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2021

tion oﬀers financial advisory and lending services to a membership of more than 140,000.

Tulsa Federal Credit Union

TULSA With a membership of more than 54,000, Tulsa FCU is a community-chartered credit union with membership available to area residents with a $5 share deposit. Founded in 1943, Tulsa FCU handles $885 million in assets and supports 52 charities annually with its Tulsa FCU Tulsa Run.

TULSA Magellan Midstream Partners transports, stores and distributes refined petroleum products and crude oil with a 9,800-mile refined products pipeline system and 54 connected terminals. Magellan believes its core values of integrity and honesty are critical to a successful business model.

OG&E

OKC Serving more than 870,000 customers, OG&E provides life-sustaining and life-enhancing products and services while honoring its commitment to strengthen the community. The company is a leader in economic development and philanthropy, and its employees volunteer nearly 20,000 hours each year.

ONE Gas

OKC As one of the largest e-commerce retailers in the nation, APMEX has a selection of more than 20,000 products, including precious metals, numismatics and semi-numismatics. Headquartered in OKC, APMex works closely with the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma to combat hunger in the area.

TULSA A 100% regulated natural gas utility, ONE Gas serves more than 2 million customers in Oklahoma, Texas and Kansas. Founded in 1906, the company assists clients in the residential, commercial, industrial, transportation and wholesale industries. Core values at ONE Gas include safety, inclusion and diversity, ethics, service, and value, with a mission to “deliver natural gas for a better tomorrow,” and a vision to be a premier natural gas distribution company.

Fabricut

ONEOK

DISTRIBUTION APMex

TULSA As one of the largest, most progressive distributors of decorative and wholesale fabric in the world, Fabricut believes that a dedication to the customer

TULSA Connecting prolific supply basins with key market centers, ONEOK is a leading midstream service provider in the U.S. Self-described as “integrated, reliable and diversified,” ONEOK was founded in 1906 and has grown to become a Fortune 500 company.

Public Service Company of Oklahoma

TULSA Providing power to 30,000 square miles of Oklahoma, PSO employs about 1,645 people, with clients in the residential, commercial and industrial markets. Committed to giving back, PSO is passionate about bolstering teachers, STEM initiatives and early childhood education

Honored to be one of Oklahoma’s

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Wallace Design Collective

OKC AND TULSA Wallace oﬀers structural and civil engineering, landscape architecture and survey consultation, with services to help tackle project visions from start to finish, along with an unwavering commitment to listen to clients’ needs and expectations. Projects run the gamut of industries, from adaptive re-use to healthcare, retail and commercial. The firm, which has oﬀices in four states, has received a slew of national and regional recognitions since its founding in 1981.

ENTERTAINMENT Choctaw Casino Resort Durant CEC, OKC, Tulsa and Duncan

through charitable donations and grants. PSO is also one of the largest purchasers of wind power in Oklahoma.

Williams

TULSA Williams oﬀers natural gas processing and transportation, along with electricity generation and petroleum assets. Committed to being a leader in “providing infrastructure that safely delivers natural gas products to reliably fuel the clean energy economy,” Williams handles approximately 30% of the nation’s natural gas production.

ENGINEERING Advance Research Chemicals, Inc.

CATOOSA In 1987, Dayal T. Meshri formed Advance Research Chemicals as a resource for high purity inorganic fluorine compounds. Looking to serve the needs of large corporations and major industries including automotive, pharmaceutical and agriculture, ARC River Spirit Casino Resort, Tulsa

oﬀers competitive pricing and high quality.

CEC

OKC, TULSA AND DUNCAN Multi-service engineering firm CEC oﬀers everything from transportation design to power delivery, materials testing and surveying. With such a wide array of expertise, CEC is involved in its projects all the way through – from conception to design and construction. Core values include humility, honesty, self-control and generosity, and CEC believes serving others is the core of company culture.

Garver

OKC, TULSA AND NORMAN Garver oﬀers multi-disciplined engineering, planning, architectural and environmental services with an emphasis on federal, transportation and facilities design. Named in the top 125 of the Engineering News-Record’s Top 500 Design Firms, Garver employs nearly 900 people across the U.S. Committed to philanthropic eﬀorts through its charitable organization, GarverGives, the company has supported over 500 nonprofits since 2015.

DURANT Whether you come for the live acts in the Grand Theater or to test your luck at 7,400 slot machines, over 100 table games, or the state-of-the-art poker room, Choctaw Casino Resort delivers the five-star treatment. Amenities abound and include six movie theaters, an arcade, bowling, three acres of poolside paradise, endless shopping and 1,700 luxury hotel rooms. An array of cuisine options are at guests’ fingertips, as well as a state-of-the-art spa with massage, facial and body treatment services.

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa

TULSA Brimming with a variety of venues and spaces, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa oﬀers 454 rooms, fine and casual dining, ample performances at Hard Rock Live and gaming options galore. With more than 2,600 electronic games, 36 table games and a poker room, Hard Rock encourages its guests to “live it up.”

Oklahoma City Thunder

OKC More than an NBA basketball team, the OKC Thunder strives to be a leader both on and oﬀ the court, providing meaningful connections with its partners, fans and community. Through its philanthropic arm, Thunder Cares, the company has forged programs and partnerships to improve the OKC community.

Osage Casino Hotel

TULSA Osage Casino Hotel’s high-stakes betting tables, electric gaming and luxurious suite amenities make it a top entertainment and relaxation hub in Tulsa. With competitive pay, sign-on bonuses and benefits, Osage Casino Hotel prides itself on career advancement opportunities for its employees.

State Farm, statewide

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2021

Ross Group, OKC and Tulsa Photo by Douglas Henderson

states with $11 billion in assets. A privately held company, QuikTrip employs over 24,000 people and donates 5% of its annual net profits to charitable organizations.

HEALTHCARE Advanced Orthopedics of Oklahoma

TULSA As the largest orthopedic practice of fellowshiptrained orthopedic and sports medicine experts in northeastern Oklahoma, Advanced Orthopedics oﬀers urgent treatment, comprehensive orthopedic care, surgery and nonsurgical medicine at four clinic locations and seven physical therapy centers.

Ascension St. John Health System

Ross Group

If someone in the company is struggling, says Ross Group CEO Warren Ross, “we hold them tight.” Ross Group, a national defense contractor, does project management on military bases across the country. The 150-employee firm has offices in Tulsa, Oklahoma City and the Dallas-Ft. Worth areas, providing development, engineering and construction services. “We are really supportive to one another,” says Ross. “We collaborate. We want our employees to be friends and socialize outside work together.” The late David Thomas, the company’s longtime CEO and Ross’s friend since high school, “really made an effort to have an environment of trust,” says Ross. Typical base projects include hangars, drone facilities and maintenance shops. “I like the challenge of really working on listening to our clients, and understanding what their issue is, and collaborating with my colleagues to really understand the root cause and reach a solution,” says Ross. “Seeing our clients happy and successful exudes energy back to us.” The Ross Charitable Foundation is another morale-builder for employees. “It’s primarily focused on supporting our troops and their families,” says Ross. Ross’s father, Jesse, founded the company in 1979. Warren decided to join the firm after working the summer between his junior and senior years of college. He bought out his father in 2011, who slowly moved into retirement. “I still seek him for counsel on certain issues, so it’s great that he’s available,” he says.

River Spirit Casino Resort

TULSA Reaching 27 stories skyward with 483 hotel rooms and suites, River Spirit Casino Resort oﬀers over 3,100 electronic games, table games, poker rooms, live entertainment, ample dining, a state-of-theart pool and cabana area, and a spa. An active community partner, River Spirit positively impacts the Tulsa economy, with resort proceeds funding a variety of programs for the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, from elderly assistance and healthcare to housing and education. Additionally, the resort leadership cultivates a culture that “celebrates diversity and diverse perspectives.”

FOOD/BEVERAGE/ CONVENIENCE Bama Companies

TULSA “Bama has come a long way from that soda fountain in Texas,” says Bama Companies CEO Paula Marshall, describing the megalithic output of the Tulsa-based international mainstay since its founding in 1927. Currently producing two million biscuits a day, plus buns, pie shells, pizza crusts and hand-held pies, Bama fosters a healthy environment for its employees that stresses education, training and well-rounded lives.

TULSA Ascension St. John Health System provides top-tier healthcare to northeastern Oklahoma, with extensive clinics and the Ascension St. John Medical Center Hospital, which is equipped with a 24-hour Level II Trauma Center. Additionally, the Ascension St. John Medical Center Cancer Program is accredited by the Commission on Cancer of the American College of Surgeons. At its core, Ascension is a faith-based healthcare organization “dedicated to transformation through innovation across the continuum of care.”

Center for Orthopaedic Reconstruction & Excellence

JENKS On the cutting edge of the latest technology, the Center for Orthopaedic Reconstruction & Excellence (CORE) offers its patients a $45 million facility that includes 24-hour emergency, physical therapy and orthopedic care. The 51,000-square-foot center includes six operating rooms, four procedure rooms, 25 in-patient beds and a physical therapy wing, all equipped with top-tier surgeons, staff and other physicians. The center’s mission is “to be the preferred provider of healthcare in Oklahoma by making a positive difference in every life we are privileged to touch.”

Dean McGee Eye Institute

OKC Founded in 1965 as the Oklahoma Eye Foundation, the Dean McGee Eye Institute is now a national

Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores

STATEWIDE Headquartered in OKC, Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores has presence in 41 states with more than 550 locations, serving motorists and truck drivers as a safe stop for fuel and snacks. Love’s has additionally raised more than $35 million for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals over the past 20 plus years.

QuikTrip

STATEWIDE More than a gas station, QuikTrip grew from humble roots in 1958 to now include 850 stores in eleven

Ascension St. John Health System, Tulsa

DECEMBER 2021| WWW.OKMAG.COM

leader in vision research. The skilled physicians range in specialties and oﬀer everything from general optometry to LASIK vision correction and specialized treatment for eye conditions like cataracts, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy.

Eastern Oklahoma Ear, Nose and Throat

TULSA Eastern Oklahoma Ear, Nose and Throat has served the state for more than 40 years, oﬀering a full service allergy team, doctors, audiologists and other professionals – including the only fellowship-trained neuro-otologist and rhinologist in Tulsa. EOENT is now the largest ear, nose and throat clinic in eastern Oklahoma.

INTEGRIS

OKC Helping healthcare consumers keep up with annual screenings and check-ups is a focus at INTEGRIS, the state’s largest not-for-profit healthcare system. INTEGRIS oﬀers 16 hospitals and health providers in 49 Oklahoma cities and towns, with a mission to partner with people to live healthier lives.

Norman Regional Hospital

MOORE/NORMAN With 219 beds and a range of services including spine and orthopedic surgery, Norman Regional Hospital serves Norman, Moore and surrounding communities. The first hospital in the OKC metro to receive the Chest Pain Accreditation with Percutaneous Coronary Intervention from the Society of Cardiovascular Patient Care, Norman Regional’s mission is to serve the community as a leader in health and wellness care.

Oklahoma State University Medical Center

TULSA As a teaching hospital, Oklahoma State University Medical Center oﬀers an array of clinics and services, including private birthing suites for expectant mothers. Recent state-of-the-art innovations include the acquisition of the robotic surgical equipment Da Vinci Xi Surgical System to provide minimally invasive surgeries in cardiac, general, gynecology, thoracic and urology cases.

The Orthopaedic Center

TULSA Specializing in orthopedics and sports medicine, The Orthopaedic Center oﬀers medical and surgical care, along with the utilization of the latest non-invasive Saint Francis Health System, Tulsa

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2021

Manhattan Construction Group, statewide

options, like electro-stimulation, nutrition, new medications and physical therapy. Physicians at TOC participate in research programs and stay up-todate on technology in orthopedic surgery to deliver best results to their patients. Dedicated to improving quality of life, TOC serves everyone from toddlers to seniors, treating each patient like family.

OU Medicine

OKC AND TULSA OU Medicine serves Oklahoma residents by training the next generation of healthcare providers, oﬀering top-tier medical services and advancing scientific research. Part of the OU Medicine system, the University of Oklahoma Medical Center has been ranked a Top 100 Hospital by Becker’s Hospital Review.

Saint Francis Health System

TULSA Saint Francis Health System serves the region as a not-for-profit entity, completely governed and operated in Tulsa. Whether it’s primary, urgent or emergency care, the physicians, healthcare staﬀ and leadership at Saint Francis provide top-of-the-line service, with the anchor of Saint Francis Hospital and additional branches that include the Children’s Hospital, Warren Clinic, the Heart Hospital and the Laureate Psychiatric Clinic, among others. The largest private employer in Tulsa country, Saint Francis has more than 10,000 employees, 1,000 physicians and 700 volunteers.

Stephenson Cancer Center OKC

Part of the OU Health Sciences Center, Stephenson is Oklahoma’s only NCI-Designated Cancer Center, one of only 71 in the U.S. As the state’s largest and most comprehensive oncology practice, physicians and staﬀ at Stephenson oﬀer all-inclusive, multidisciplinary cancer care close to home.

Tulsa ER & Hospital

TULSA Providing concierge-level emergency care to the community, Tulsa ER & Hospital oﬀers comprehensive healthcare in a state-of-the-art, 16,372-squarefoot facility. Medical professionals can treat both minor and major injuries, test for infections, provide bone imaging and handle occupational injuries.

HIGHER EDUCATION Northeastern State University

TAHLEQUAH Preparing students for successful careers, Northeastern State University has three campuses, numerous undergraduate and graduate degrees, and a College of Optometry. NSU also curates a wellrounded experience for its pupils on campus with student government, intramurals and Greek life.

Oklahoma Panhandle State University

GOODWELL OPSU stresses student learning, resource optimization, graduate production and life-long learning. Oﬀering three colleges – Agriculture, Science and Nursing; Arts and Education; and Business and

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Chinowth & Cohen Realtors, OKC and Tulsa

care workers. Oﬀering graduate and professional degrees, OSU-CHS oﬀers programs ranging from osteopathic medicine to forensic science.

Oklahoma State University-Tulsa

TULSA OSU-Tulsa is a public comprehensive research university oﬀering bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees, along with graduate certificates. Students can also participate in ground-breaking research with the Helmerich Research Center and OSU Center for Family Resilience.

Rogers State University

CLAREMORE Recognized for high-quality academic programs, a strong scholastic atmosphere, accessible distance education and a high-tech learning environment, RSU has three campuses in Oklahoma. With two schools – Arts and Sciences; and Professional Studies – students have numerous program options.

Tulsa Community College

TULSA Committed to accessibility, TCC believes in fostering a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion with aﬀordable, quality education. Associate degree and certificate program options are extensive, laying a strong groundwork for lucrative careers or continued education at four-year institutions.

Chinowth & Cohen

Chinowth & Cohen Realtors is a familyowned and operated real estate company that prides itself on investing in people, says Travis Guillory, director of the company’s marketing and public relations. “And that starts from the top down,” he says. Sheryl Chinowth and her husband, Lee Cohen, founded the company in 2004, and the second generation – Leland and Taylor Chinowth – have helped them grow the firm to more than 800 associates, with 14 offices in eastern Oklahoma. “These four are out there and accessible to the agents in ways that one might not typically expect from the leaders of such a large company,” says Guillory. “They invest so much in their sales associates and really pave the way for individual success.” Chinowth & Cohen supports dozens of nonprofits and charitable organizations, and encourages its agents to get involved with a cause and be present in the communities they serve. The bottom line is that Realtors enjoy being a part of Chinowth & Cohen because of the tools they are equipped with to become successful. “Aspiring and new agents have the Chinowth & Cohen Real Estate Academy with an extraordinary team of educators and trainers,” says Guillory.

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2021

Technology – students can choose programs leading to nearly 60 baccalaureate and associate degrees.

Oklahoma State University

STILLWATER OSU has graduated more than 264,000 students at its five campuses across the state since its founding in 1890. Committed to the public good, OSU focuses on accessibility; health and wellness; cooperative extension; diversity; outreach and community engagement; research; and safety and sustainability.

Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences TULSA Created to fulfill the healthcare needs of rural Oklahomans, OSU-CHS strives to educate and prepare osteopathic physicians, scientists and other health-

University of Oklahoma

NORMAN With 170 majors and three campuses, OU boasts a top ten petroleum engineering program and a top three dance program, nationally. With varied study abroad opportunities, OU is passionate about creating global citizens, and also oﬀers a rich campus life with athletics, Greek life and student government.

University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma

CHICKASHA A liberal arts university, Science & Arts encourages students to think and speak for themselves, and is known for its small class sizes and passionate professors. Scholarships and financial aid opportunities are plentiful, as are degree programs – from biology and business to deaf education and theater arts.

Fabricut, Tulsa

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Do something that means something. At Williams, we don’t offer jobs — we offer opportunities for people like you to apply your passion to vital work. Our employees impact people’s lives every day, helping fuel the clean energy economy with abundant, low cost and reliable natural gas. We make clean energy happen and so can you. Bring your energy to ours.

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Why is Webco a great company to work for? Because great people work here.

Proud to be one of Oklahoma’s great companies to work for.

When you’re a forever kind of company, you think about your team and how you value them differently.

At Webco, we believe in long term relationships, and that includes with our employees and our communities. We’re proud to be the kind of company where multiple generations of employees have chosen to be part of the Webco team.

If you know someone who would be a great fit for us, please tell them about Webco – we’re hiring.

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OSU Foundation, Stillwater

University of Tulsa

TULSA With a 11:1 student/faculty ratio, TU oﬀers individualized attention to pupils in myriad degree programs, with the goal of blending liberal arts, professional studies and career support to create well-rounded graduates. With a robust campus life, students can join one of more than 200 on-campus organizations.

HUMAN RESOURCES AND STAFFING AGENCY Express Employment Professionals

STATEWIDE The largest staﬀing firm in Oklahoma, Express Employment Professionals’s 34 oﬀices in the state have worked overtime through the pandemic, placing more than 51,500 candidates into new jobs; the company is currently on pace to exceed 14% in growth over 2020. With hope and inspiration at the core of company culture, Express cares for its employees, clients and associates, and is excited to help reawaken the economy by helping clients find employees who are critical to national recovery. Founder Bob Funk, Sr., firmly believes in Oklahomans, attributing the company’s success to their strong work ethic and values.

Heartland

EDMOND Heartland Payment Systems began as a small financial technology company and was later acquired by Global Payments in 2016. Heartland’s mission, however, remains the same: to be a pioneer in modern payment processing as well as a complete technology solution for businesses.

Key Personnel

OKC AND TULSA Key Personnel works to place the best candidates in the best jobs, while taking away the headache of hiring from businesses through its cutting-edge employment strategies. Specializing in six divisions

– industrial, administrative, financial, medical, legal and technical – Key’s core values include authenticity, integrity, family and a passion for service, which includes finding candidates that fit not only the position but the culture of the company. The company now serves the OKC metro.

Nextep

NORMAN AND TULSA Simplifying human resource solutions so business owners can focus on what’s important, Nextep supports companies with quality benefits, HR expertise, payroll and technology. Internally, Nextep fosters a strong company culture, described as “fun, people-first and supportive.”

the state’s health insurance landscape. Oﬀering individual, family and Medicare plans, BCBSOK’s main goal is providing quality coverage, with a variety of helpful member services to ensure each client finds the plan right for them.

Robert Half

CommunityCare

INSURANCE

Delta Dental

OKC AND TULSA With awards like Forbes’ 2021 World’s Most Admired Companies, Robert Half has helped businesses find highly skilled employees in a range of industries since 1948. Boasting more than 345 staﬀing locations worldwide, Robert Half can oﬀer assistance to companies anytime, anywhere.

American Fidelity Assurance

OKC American Fidelity was founded with a core belief: the most important asset anyone has is their ability to work and earn a living. The company oﬀers supplemental benefit products in the education, public sector, automotive and healthcare industries, with a commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Oklahoma

STATEWIDE With a wide array of oﬀerings, BCBSOK is a leader in Express Employment Professionals, statewide

Photo by David McNeese

TULSA CommunityCare, dedicated to oﬀering top-tier, affordable healthcare management services, is owned by two of the region’s premier health systems: Ascension St. John and Saint Francis. Whether you’re looking for individual, family, Medicare or group plans, CommunityCare has everything you’ll need. STATEWIDE Providing coverage to 80 million people in all 50 states, Delta Dental is a national leader in dental insurance. The organization’s core purpose is the advancement of the oral health of its customers, partners and consumers through providing dental insurance and supporting philanthropic eﬀorts.

Farmers Insurance

STATEWIDE With competitive coverage in home, auto and life insurance, Farmers has been a leading provider since 1928. Dedicated to delivering peace of mind and innovative solutions for its customers, Farmers agents make getting a quote, filing a claim or finding a plan as easy as possible.

Gallagher Insurance

OKC AND TULSA Gallagher presents customers with a “stronghold of insurance practices” that work across multiple industries. From finding gaps in coverage, to construction bonds tailored to each person’s needs, to small business quotes, products and services, Gallagher ensures every client is covered.

GlobalHealth

OKC AND TULSA GlobalHealth separates itself from the pack by oﬀering “high touch, high value, and a partnership” with its members. With a vision for genuine care and optimal health for its clients, GlobalHealth tailors its oﬀerings to state, education, local government and federal employees.

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2021

It’s hard to beat last year’s numbers...but we will.

2020

51,500 People Placed

5,260 Companies Served

We’re on pace to exceed last year’s placement numbers by 14% and have already served a record number of 5,349 companies in just the first 3 quarters of 2021. - Bob Funk

Alert 360, Tulsa

The Holmes Organisation

TULSA Providing both individual and group insurance plans, the Holmes Organisation oﬀers the expertise needed to meet any insurance needs. By extending a consultative and collaborative approach, clients are given a tailored plan to fit their needs – creating peace of mind and zero gaps in coverage.

Rich & Cartmill

OKC AND TULSA A pioneer in the realm of insurance coverage since 1922, Rich & Cartmill handles everything from commercial property to general liability, home and auto, disability, and risk management. Industries covered run the gamut, including construction, healthcare, education, retail and hospitality.

State Farm

STATEWIDE Presenting a range of choices for home and property, small business, life, health, disability, liability and even pet medical, State Farm covers virtually every realm of insurance with highly competitive rates. With more than 19,000 agents across the country, State Farm has guidance and expertise in its arsenal for any situation – with the goal to serve customers well and to give back to local communities.

LAW FIRMS Barrow & Grimm

TULSA Oﬀering “counsel for the business of life,” Barrow & Grimm was founded in 1976 with expertise in commercial law, civil litigation, tax law, labor law and

more. Boasting 25 accomplished attorneys, Barrow & Grimm oﬀers responsible and timely service, along with personal attention for any legal need.

Jones Gotcher

Calvert Law Firm

OKC Attorneys take on the roles of business partners at Calvert, with the goal of ensuring the value of their services is greater than their fees. Handling complex litigation, transactional matters, appeals, and mergers and acquisitions, these attorneys pride themselves on strong client relationships.

Hammons, Hurst & Associates

OKC Under the guidance of Mark E. Hammons, Sr., this firm oﬀers experienced, compassionate and thorough counsel for any employment law needs. Practice areas include gender, race, pregnancy, disability and age discrimination; along with sexual harassment; denial of overtime pay; and medical leave violations. Regardless of the issue, this firm is committed to making the workplace better for everyone.

The Handley Law Center

Bama Companies, Tulsa

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2021

clients in Canadian County and around Oklahoma, Handley has received numerous accolades for its work.

EL RENO Known as Oklahoma’s personal injury, drug possession, DUI and criminal defense lawyers, the Handley Law Center focuses on providing quality legal services for reasonable fees. Helping

TULSA A 30-person firm, Jones Gotcher oﬀers the resources to handle any case while maintaining personal attention for each client. Listed in the Bar Register of Preeminent Lawyers, Jones Gotcher covers a variety of cases, from banking and financial matters to family law, real estate and employment.

Latham Steele Lehman

OKC AND TULSA A full-service law firm that focuses on strong client-attorney relationships – whether those clients are small businesses and individuals or major companies – Latham Steele Lehman oﬀers experienced lawyers who deliver successful verdicts, settlements and appeals. With more than 300 jury trials under its belt, LSL has numerous areas of expertise, including corporate services, litigation, medical malpractice defense, workers’ compensation, real estate, and tax, trusts and estate planning. Norman Regional Hospital, Moore/Norman

Cut the ribbon on your career

with us.

POWER FOR THIS GENERATION AND THE NEXT With over 100 years of innovation, PSO is delivering more clean energy to Oklahoma families with optional programs and incentives to save energy and money!

2021

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Beyond the design. For almost three decades, we’ve been delivering the innovative infrastructure designs that keep Oklahoma growing. And we couldn’t do that without our talented staff. Which is why we’re so proud to be named one of Oklahoma Magazine’s Great Companies to Work For – it’s because of them, we’re serving the communities we call home. GarverUSA.com

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Stange Law Firm

OKC AND TULSA Stange operates with responsive, diligent and communicative representation in family law. Some areas of expertise include divorce and separation; child custody; family violence; and military divorce, with the end goal to help every client rebuild his or her life. The firm has experienced exponential growth since its founding in 2007, and now serves Missouri, Illinois, Kansas and Oklahoma. Additionally, the firm engages in charitable giving and community service to give back to the areas it serves.

MANUFACTURING/ INDUSTRIAL SUPPLY AAON

TULSA A leader in creating healthy indoor environments, AAON engineers, manufactures, markets and sells HVAC equipment. Founded in 1988 following the acquisition of the heating and A/C division of the John Zink Company, AAON has grown to support new production lines, machinery, and 1.51 million square feet of facilities in Tulsa, with two additional plants in Texas and Missouri that employ, in total, over 2,000 people. The company prides itself on its diverse workforce, plus competitive benefits and wages.

Airgas

STATEWIDE Airgas is a leading single-source supplier of gases, welding equipment and supplies, and safety products. Founded in 1982, Airgas has grown through the years with more than 500 acquisitions and is now the largest U.S. distribution network in the packaged gas industry.

Brainerd Chemical Company, Inc.

TULSA Founded in 1959, Brainerd excels in chemical manufacturing and distribution, with stewardship, safety and service at the heart of the company. Spurring change within the industry, Brainerd has a proven track record of dedication to safety, government compliance and environmental protection.

Zeeco, Broken Arrow

Ditch Witch

PERRY Ditch Witch has produced cutting-edge underground utility construction equipment since its founding in 1949. The company touts experienced industry professionals and thorough, accessible reference materials for their products, which include directional drillers, vacuum excavators and trenchers. Known for the slogan “we bleed orange,” Ditch Witch finds success through its passionate employees, who bring grit, pride and work ethic to their jobs each day.

Hilti

OKC AND TULSA Hilti has grown into a global business while retaining its family-owned status. A developer and manufacturer of products in the construction, maintenance and energy industries, Hilti is committed to building a better future with its over 3,800 highly-trained North American employees.

Kimray, Inc.

OKC Producing top-of-the-line oil and gas control equipment, Kimray is dedicated to making a diﬀerence. The company was founded in 1948 and its core passions include treating its people with respect; producing quality products; ensuring close customer relationships; and upholding strong values.

Matrix Service Co.

TULSA Devoted to reaching a higher standard, Matrix oﬀers services in construction, management and fabrication for the energy and industrial markets. Twice recognized on Forbes’ Most Trustworthy Companies list, Matrix also boasts a number of sizeable acquisitions since its founding in 1984.

Paragon Industries, Inc. ONE Gas, Tulsa

Photo by Rick Ayre

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2021

SAPULPA With the singular goal of customer satisfaction,

Paragon manufactures quality oil country tubular goods, line pipe products and more. The company prides itself on safe operations, high quality products, low costs and high productivity, growing from 2 employees in 1970 to over 400 today.

Webco Industries

SAND SPRINGS North America’s foremost provider of innovative tubing solutions, Webco excels through its core practices, which include empowering people; dominating niche markets; and embracing change. Employing the industry’s best talent, Webco has worked to create a dynamic network of facilities since its founding in 1969 as Southwest Tube Manufacturing.

Zeeco

BROKEN ARROW Specializing in the design and manufacture of advanced combustion equipment and the creation of environmental solutions, Zeeco employs more than 1,000 people with over 25 global locations. The company’s equipment is created to reduce emissions, optimize processing industries and maximize operating eﬀiciency – all while meeting government compliance requirements. Zeeco’s Broken Arrow headquarters include a 250-acre campus with a 100,000-square-foot manufacturing facility.

MISCELLANEOUS Alert360

TULSA With a variety of home and business security equipment and packages, Alert360 works diligently to make clients feel safe and secure, and touts the rare designation of a TMA Five Diamond Alarm Monitoring Center. Founded in Tulsa in 1973, the company has grown to become the fifth largest residential security provider in the U.S., with nearly a quarter of a million customers.

Oklahoma State University Foundation

STILLWATER The private fundraising organization for Oklahoma State University, the Foundation leads with the goal of uniting donor and university passions and priorities to achieve excellence. Managing donor dollars, the Foundation creates scholarships, community programs and educational opportunities for students, faculty, staﬀ and alumni to support the spirit and traditions of OSU.

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Cox Communications, statewide

TECHNOLOGY CACI

OKC A $6 billion company, CACI and its technology plays a crucial role in national security while keeping troops safe and helping the federal government deliver support to the country. With defense, intelligence and civilian customers, CACI presents digital solutions to transform how clients do business.

CoreLogic

OKC CoreLogic oﬀers financial, property and consumer information, analytics and business intelligence to the real estate, financial, insurance and government sectors. With an emphasis on recruiting, retaining and developing its people, CoreLogic believes its employees are its most important resource.

InterWorks

REAL ESTATE Chinowth & Cohen Realtors

OKC AND TULSA With fourteen oﬀices across Oklahoma, Chinowth & Cohen Realtors – led by Sheryl, Leland and Taylor Chinowth and Lee Cohen – is an independentlyowned, full-service residential real estate company oﬀering the best agents in the business. Along with record breaking sales numbers exceeding $2 billion annually, philanthropy is at the center of the business model, with outreach events for numerous local nonprofits including Family & Children Services and Habitat for Humanity.

Coldwell Banker

STATEWIDE Coldwell Banker’s mission is to “deliver the treasure of home ethically and honestly,” and the business

has been doing just that for over 100 years. Begun as a start-up in 1906, Coldwell Banker has expanded tremendously and now boasts 3,000 oﬀices in 49 countries and territories.

Keller Williams Realty

STATEWIDE Described as a “technology company that provides the real estate platform that our agents’ buyers and sellers prefer,” Keller Williams excels in real estate, tech and entrepreneurship. From luxury homes to commercial properties and land, KW helps its clients acquire or sell exactly what they desire.

McGraw Realtors

TULSA With the goal of making real estate simple for clients, McGraw oﬀers the expertise of 800+ associates in Oklahoma and Arkansas. A full-service firm, McGraw also handles property management and relocation services, and boasts a real estate academy for those interested in the industry.

Stan Johnson Co.

OG&E, OKC

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2021

TULSA Stan Johnson believes real estate is a relationship business. Also oﬀering investment sales, corporate solutions, and debt and structured finance services, Stan Johnson has exceeded $40 billion in total transaction volume and reaches the asking price for its properties 97.1% of the time.

TULSA A people-focused consultancy, InterWorks oﬀers clients expertise in analytics, strategy, infrastructure and data management. Through expert hiring, savvy partnerships and the empowerment of its clients, InterWorks built its success through the business intelligence revolution of the early 2000s.

Paycom

OKC An industry-leading tech provider, Paycom helps to digitally evolve businesses. Excelling in talent acquisition and management; payroll and HR; and time and labor management, Paycom is passionate about connecting employees to their personal data in businesses of various sizes and industries.

TMA Systems

TULSA A world-class provider of advanced Computerized Maintenance Management Systems, TMA has been transforming businesses since 1988. TMA’s products and services serve a range of industries, from rural school districts to Fortune 500 companies, and clients include American Airlines and QuikTrip.

TRANSPORTATION Freymiller, Inc.

OKC One of North America’s leading trucking companies, Freymiller operates on four core values: safety, professionalism, integrity and excellence. Freymiller is committed to providing the most reliable, temperature-controlled equipment and time-sensitive services with over 50 years of expertise.

Melton Truck Lines

TULSA Founded in 1954, Melton Truck Lines is one of the nation’s leading flatbed and step deck trucking companies. Melton, which employs over 1,250 drivers, treats its employees like family, supporting them both on and oﬀ the road. With customized solutions for all flatbed transportation needs, Melton finds success (and builds up happy employees) through its top base pay, tarp pay, competitive benefits and

Melton Truck Lines, Tulsa

Citizen Potawatomi Nation, Shawnee

Photo by Garett Fisbeck

bonus/recognition programs for drivers.

Private Jets, Inc.

BETHANY Founded in 1987, Private Jets, Inc., provides charter flights for private and business travelers. With an impressive fleet and a dedication to aviation safety, quality aircraft and top-notch service, Private Jets offers clients an unbeatable private travel experience not found elsewhere in the state.

TBS Factoring Service

OKC Providing factoring services to businesses in the transportation industry, TBS brings over 50 years of expertise to the motor carriers it serves, with a commitment to driving change for small businesses through digital transformation. Core values at TBS include honesty, integrity, respect and teamwork, and the company puts those values to practice through numerous partnerships with local nonprofit organizations like Junior Achievement, Children’s Hospital Foundation and the Central Oklahoma Humane Society.

TRIBAL ENTERPRISE Cherokee Nation

CATOOSA With a mission to grow the Nation’s economy through diversification and to create jobs for its citizens, Cherokee Nation Businesses employs more than 7,500

people in 26 countries and all 50 states. Business subsidiaries are vast and include those in the hospitality, federal, cultural and economic development sectors.

Chickasaw Nation

ADA Dedicated to the preservation of family, community and heritage, the Chickasaw Nation’s core values include servant leadership, perseverance and cultural identity. Using new technologies and dynamic business strategies, the Nation’s business endeavors ensure the Nation remains united and thriving.

Choctaw Nation

DURANT The Choctaw Nation’s Division of Commerce bolsters more than 5,000 jobs through its gaming sites, resorts, restaurants, ranches and other subsidiaries. Carrying on the Choctaw legacy of “determination, commitment and community,” these businesses generate revenue, create jobs and develop leaders.

Citizen Potawatomi Nation Hammons, Hurst & Associates Photo by Brandon Snider Photo

SHAWNEE With enterprises in the grocery, gas, gaming, recreation, entertainment, shop-

ping, dining, industrial, banking and finance realms, Citizen Potawatomi Nation bolsters its economy of over 37,000 tribal members through various entrepreneurial avenues. Additionally, the Nation oﬀers numerous services to its citizens, along with a Cultural Heritage Center that recently underwent a comprehensive, four-year renovation.

Muscogee Creek Nation

OKMULGEE The MCN Department of Commerce fosters, promotes and develops the foreign and domestic commerce of the Nation, which boasts more than 86,100 citizens. Enterprises that strengthen the fabric of the tribe include cultural tourism, gaming, business and a higher learning institution.

Osage Nation

PAWHUSKA The business enterprises of the Nation create a viable and sustainable economy with income “responsibly reinvested and reserved for future generations.” With an emphasis on education, economy, civic engagement, culture, health and natural resources, the Nation remains a resilient and enduring sovereign entity.

Seminole Nation

WEWOKA The Nation remains steadfast in its goals to build up families, preserve culture, create educational opportunities and foster economic growth. Its major business, the Seminole Nation Gaming Enterprise, consists of three casinos, and its Gaming Agency provides ample employment opportunities, too.

DECEMBER 2021| WWW.OKMAG.COM

Holiday

A Comprehensive

By Mary Willa Allen

Activity Guide

The entire month of December should be a festive aﬀair – especially after the drab season of 2020. Luckily, jolly, holiday-centric activities are around every corner of Oklahoma. And for the budget-conscious, there’s plenty to do at home with minimal supplies. Explore the varied options below to ensure your December is, indeed, merry and bright.

Raise Your Voice A big fan of holiday tunes? Spread some joy by singing them in a caroling outing with friends or family. Pro tips: Pick a handful of easy songs to memorize – from “Jingle Bells” to “Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer.” Ensure you’ve got a good range, from classics to more modern fare. An ideal time to go caroling? Between dinner and bedtime.

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2021

Perhaps your most enthusiast audience members will be kids, so don’t go too late. Ensure your group of excited carolers dress for the weather, and bring flashlights to keep things safe. And for the musically gifted groups, bring instruments to accompany the tunes, from guitars to tambourines.

Light Up the Night Perhaps one of the most hassle-free holiday outings is a trip to see lights – and the state is absolutely decked out with a magical menagerie. In the Tulsa metro, the Rhema Christmas Lights extravaganza in Broken Arrow runs through Jan. 2. The Rhema experience includes nearly three million lights on its 110acre campus, plus public and private carriage rides. Ketchum’s yuletide tradition, the Winter Wonderland Christmas Light Tour, takes place at the Pine Lodge Resort, with illuminated log cabins, antique cars and other twinkling goodies. The event runs through New Year's Day. In Yukon, Christmas in the Park is described as a “magical wonderland of visual entertainment,” running through New Year's Eve. A drive-through event, Christmas in the Park begins in Yukon City Park and winds through Freedom Trail and Chisholm Trail Park. For those in the Bartlesville area, the Woolaroc Wonderland of Lights is a weekends-only spectacular through Dec. 19, in which the

historic ranch transforms with the help of 750,000 lights. Other festive oﬀerings include wagon rides and cookies and hot cocoa. Another drive-through event, the Ardmore Festival of Lights includes a 1.5-mile stretch of holiday goodness, replete with 150 animated displays at the Ardmore Regional Park through Dec. 30. Until Christmas Day, the Holiday Lights Spectacular at Midwest City’s Joe B. Barnes Regional Park includes more than 100 animated light displays to peruse, along with a show-stopping, 118-foot Christmas tree. Catch Kingfisher Winter Nights through Dec. 27 as it sets the city's park alight with more than 60 lighted displays. Don’t miss Santa sightings, a scavenger hunt and family photo opportunities. Another popular choice is the Chickasha Festival of Light, with Shannon Springs Park as a backdrop for 3.5 million twinkling bulbs. Stick around for the ice rink, available to patrons through New Year's Eve.

Gingerbread Galore Whether it’s a rousing family competition or a solo endeavor, making gingerbread houses is an ideal at-home activity. Oklahoma’s own Pioneer Woman, Ree Drummond, oﬀers tips via her website, thepioneerwoman.com, to create a great succulent abode. Use dough that’s tough, not soft or chewy. If you’re cooking up the dough yourself, wait for it to harden a bit before using it. Use royal icing to ensure your gingerbread house stays together. This type of icing, easily found at the grocery store, is a hard white icing that includes egg whites, icing sugar and lemon or lime juice. To create the perfect shape for your house, look online for printable templates. Then, use a paring knife or X-ACTO blade to cut out the shape. Have patience. Wait an hour between constructing the walls and the roof, and 2-3 hours after that to decorate. Fun decoration ingredients include cereal squares, pretzel sticks, sticks of gum, shredded coconut, sugar cubes, graham crackers and marshmallows. For those not looking to tackle such a size able project, mini gingerbread houses can easily be made with graham crackers.

Crafts on Crafts If the weather is frightful or you find saving money delightful, at-home holiday crafts are easy to find. Start out with pinecone bird feeders, a quick, easy and simple craft that requires only a few ‘ingredients,’ like pine cones, peanut butter, Popsicle sticks, bird seed and string. For those in the mood to decorate, popcorn and cranberry garlands are a festive choice. For this one, all you’ll need are threads, a needle, cranberries and popcorn. To fulfill your artistic passion, homemade stockings are the way to go. Whether you purchase plain stockings and personalize them, or knit and customize the stocking yourselves, it’s a goodie that can last for seasons to come. Want to fill up space on your tree? Make your own ornaments! Decorating plain bulbs is an ideal avenue to spend some time with loved ones and get creative.

Come Skate Away If you want to burn off some calories from all the holiday treats, ice skating options abound. Start with Tulsa’s Arvest Winterfest, offering its rink at the BOK Center through Jan. 3, with 9,000 glorious square feet of ice. Now in its tenth season, the Edmond Ice Rink welcomes guests to Mitch Park through Jan. 3. The BA Ice Rink, located at 418 S. Main St. in the Rose District, remains open through Jan. 3. After a skate, stick around for warm drinks like coffee and hot chocolate. Running through Jan. 2 at 500 W. Vandament Ave., the Yukon Ice Rink presents 4,100 square feet of real ice, along with holiday light displays. Crest on Ice, at 2550 Mt. Williams Dr. in Norman, gives guests all the winter fun they’ll need through Jan. 3. At OKC’s Devon Ice Rink, the jolly joy runs all the way through Jan. 30, replete with 5,500 square feet of ice and seasonal food and beverage offerings. In Enid, Holidays on Ice skates through the season until Jan. 2 at 400 S. Independence Ave.

Devon Ice Rink, OKC

Photo courtesy Downtown in December

DECEMBER 2021| WWW.OKMAG.COM

All Aboard

Kingfisher Winter Nights Photo courtesy KWN

Hop on one of many seasonal trains this month. At OKC’s Oklahoma Railway Museum, the Polar Express oﬀers train rides daily though New Year’s Eve. At Blanchard’s Christmas on Main – located on the cross-streets of Main and Broadway – the whole family can partake in train and hayrides on Dec. 11, along with viewing a holiday parade. Crystal Christmas, running through Dec. 31, presents lighted train rides, a nativity scene and photos with Santa at the Crystal Beach Park in Woodward. Christmas in the Park, running through Dec. 18 in Elk City’s Akley Park, allows kiddos (and kids at heart) to ride the Candy Cane Train and the Centennial Carousel. At the Twin Bridges Park of Lights in Fairland, patrons can drive through 50,000 twinkling lights and enjoy free photos and train rides through Dec. 30. And fans of the Castle of Muskogee won’t want to miss the holiday activities this year, which include tractor-drawn hayrides, a Christmas Train and light displays through Dec. 31.

Philanthropic Efforts The most popular time of year to get into the spirit of giving is here, and Oklahoma nonprofits are hard at work making sure the less-fortunate have great celebrations. Below are some suggestions for those looking to help out: • Collect gently used toys, clothing and other item and donate to a shelter in need. Solid options include the Child Abuse Network, the Tulsa Day Center for the Homeless, the OKC Homeless Alliance and Dress for Success. • Write letters to soldiers stationed overseas. A good place to start is Soldiers’ Angels. • Volunteer at a soup kitchen or food pantry

Get Cookin’ For those who believe the way to the heart is through the stomach, easy-to-make holiday culinary treats are just a Google search away, whether you’re an expert chef or a little wary of the kitchen. Favorites include: • Sugar cookies • Peppermint bark • Shortbread • Christmas tree brownies • Cheesecake bites • Hot chocolate cookie cups • Sweet and salty holiday toﬀee • Gingerbread trifle

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2021

The Santa Run, Downtown in December, OKC

Photo courtesy Downtown in December

• •

•

to dispense items to those who need it. Try the Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma and the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma. Become a bell ringer at the Salvation Army, or help with their giving tree programs. Sign up for an ‘Adopt a Family’ program, where you can help families across the state struggling to rebuild after traumatic events. Try Domestic Violence Intervention Services. Look into one of many events hosted by the American Red Cross, including blood drives and fundraisers for those suﬀering after a house fire.

See a Show Lyric Theatre presents: A Christmas Carol Through Dec. 23 Harn Homestead, Oklahoma City lyrictheatreokc.com Pollard Theatre presents: It’s a Wonderful Life Through Dec. 23 Pollard Theatre, Guthrie thepollard.org A Territorial Christmas Celebration Through Dec. 11 Historic District Downtown, Guthrie guthriesterritorialchristmas.com Miami Little Theatre presents: The Best Christmas Pageant Ever Dec. 2-5 Coleman Theatre, Miami miamilittletheatre.com OKC Philharmonic presents: A Christmas Celebration Dec. 3-4 Civic Center Music Hall, Oklahoma City okcphil.org Tulsa Ballet presents: The Nutcracker Dec. 10-19 Tulsa Performing Arts Center tulsaballet.org Oklahoma City Ballet presents: The Nutcracker Dec. 11-19 Civic Center Music Hall, Oklahoma City okcballet.org OKC Broadway presents: A Magical Cirque Christmas Dec. 22 Civic Center Music Hall, Oklahoma City okcbroadway.com

The Nutcracker, OKC Ballet Photo by Jana Carson

Movie Night • The Santa Clause • National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation • Die Hard • Miracle on 34th Street • White Christmas • The Nightmare Before Christmas • Home Alone • The Muppet Christmas

A budget-friendly activity? Sitting down by the fireplace to enjoy a holiday movie. Recommendations below:

Arvest Winterfest, Tulsa Photo courtesy Winterfest

• How the Grinch Stole Christmas • Elf • It’s a Wonderful Life • A Charlie Brown Christmas • A Christmas Story • Scrooged • A Christmas Carol

Downtown in December, OKC Photo courtesy Downtown in December

Philbrook Festival, Tulsa Photo courtesy Philbrook

Feel the Community Come Alive For a little bit of everything, a few community gatherings in the state’s major metros bring together numerous oﬀerings for a month-long sojourn into festivity. In Tulsa, the Philbrook Festival is a can’t-miss city tradition running through Dec. 31. With both day and night activities, the festival includes

everything from special exhibitions to a Lego villa, expansive decor, beautiful light displays, musical light shows, hot cocoa, take-and-make art projects and visits with Santa. Arvest Winterfest in downtown Tulsa includes carriage rides, ice skating, holiday treats and more through Jan. 3.

And in OKC, Downtown in December is truly an extravaganza, with a series of activities for just about everyone. From a Santa Run on Dec. 4 to philanthropic events all month long, ice skating and on-stage performances, you’ll never run out of things to do. Visit downtownindecember.com for a full list of events. DECEMBER 2021 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

TASTE

FOOD, DRINK AND OTHER PLEASURES

A Lifelong Calling

La Baguette Bistro serves up authentic cuisine created by a duo of French brothers.

F A highlight on the La Baguette menu is the roasted half rack of lamb with a ratatouille and cabernet sauce. Photos courtesy La Baguette Bistro

rom the south of France to North May Avenue in Oklahoma City, the Buthion brothers are no strangers to the fine dining experience. For three decades now, Michel and his brother, chef Alain, have brought the cuisine, service and ambiance of their hometown of Grenoble, France, to OKC. Raised watching their father operate his popular boucherie, it’s no surprise that the brothers found themselves drawn to gourmet food. What began as a small, 12-table coffee shop has turned into one of the city’s most recognizable names in upscale food and wine, spanning multiple storefronts with culinary options galore.

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2021

La Baguette Bistro offers breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner menus, with extensive options for almost any palate. I know I’m in the right spot when I find a brunch menu with a separate category entitled “The Hollandaise Series.” The French are known for many iconic contributions to the world of gastronomy, but on Sunday mornings, rich, buttery Hollandaise poured over almost anything is a must-try. Later in the day, I appreciate having company at my table, since choosing between the beef tartare, escargot de bourgogne, and house duck foie gras torchon is impossible ... and that’s before I get past the appetizers.

TA S T E | L O C A L F L AV O R

The restaurant also showcases an array of wines, beers, spirits and cordials. They offer a variety of whiskies, including some Japanese, Irish and Canadian options, along with blended and singlemalt scotch and bourbon. If you enjoy an aperitif or a craft cocktail, you’ll find an exciting selection of both. Private dining is available, and special events and wine dinners are not to be missed. Next door, the bakery and deli feature housemade bread and pastries in the traditional style. Cheesecake comes in eight different flavors. Specialty cakes and tartes present mouthwatering chocolate, fruit, nuts and caramel. Traditional German and Italian desserts make an appearance as well, and you can find seasonal selections like Bûche de Noël, pumpkin pie and chocolate-bourbon pecan pie during the holidays. The Boucherie serves up meats and take-away meals, so serving osso buco or duck confit at home is nearly effortless. Specialty foods, both imported and local, include oils, vinegar, charcuterie, condiments, dressings and more. One of the additions in recent years came about when Oklahoma’s liquor laws changed to allow the sale of bottled wine in food establishments. Michel has long been known for his love of fine wine, and now, in addition to the extensive list in the restaurant, he has curated a retail selection that will intrigue even the most discerning palate. If their $800-a-bottle options don’t fit into your budget, they

also have wines of great value priced at under $20. If you happen to be the type that loves to host holidays but dreads the hassle of shopping, prepping, cooking, and cleanup, La Baguette has you covered. Family-style takeout meals are available for pickup, so all you have to do is heat and serve. You get all of the credit for a gourmet meal without the hard work. La Baguette is open seven days a week but is running on amended hours during COVID, so call for breakfast hours.

Photo courtesy Radish

TA S T E | F I R S T B I T E

AMANDA JANE SIMCOE

Immediately below: The Atlantic salmon comes with a veggie medley and chipotle honey glaze. Bottom: Catering options abound at La Baguette.

RADISH

Walking into Radish is like entering the home of a kindly and slightly eccentric relative – it’s a fun place to be. And, as with such a relative, you can expect abundant and glorious servings of very tasty food: A big tray of mezze heaped with flavorful hummus, tabbouleh, dolmas and a lot more. Rotisserie chickens bursting with flavor. You can get a whole bird for $28, along with rich, creamy roast potatoes and three delightful sauces (olive aioli, roasted garlic and, for a kick, a Habanero carrot). They’re aptly named “awesome sauces.” There are several satisfying wraps from the eastern end of the Mediterranean, including a lamb gyro and one called “Okie Buffalo,” made from blue cheese, honey sauce, greens and that wonderful rotisserie chicken. You can’t miss Melissa Grace. She’s the owner, and she runs the entire place with just one assistant. She makes the place fun. In the beginning, Grace and her husband, a classically trained chef and graduate of Cordon Bleu in London, met at a Grateful Dead concert, toured the States, then founded a catering company. He later worked as executive chef at the Philbrook before coming up with the concept for Radish. “These two have squeezed in plenty of living,” the World wrote in 2018. A few months later, he suddenly passed away. But the menu at Radish was the sort of food Grace loves, and so she carried on, first at Mother Road Market and now at her own lovely storefront location, to build a place that’s truly a labor of love. 1730 S. Boston Ave, Tulsa; facebook.com/ radishroute66 BRIAN SCHWARTZ

DECEMBER 2021 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

TA S T E | CHEF CHAT

Going Full Throttle

Nick Andoe believes the sky’s the limit at Local Bison.

Chef Nick Andoe, a Tulsa native, returned to the city to run the kitchen at popular eatery Local Bison. Photos by Stephanie Phillips

ONLINE

TO SEE ANDOE’S RECIPE FOR SHRIMP DIABLO, VISIT OKMAG.COM/ ANDOE

troll any evening into Local Bison in downtown Tulsa, through the crowds at the bar, and head for the kitchen. There, you’ll find Nick Andoe, squeezing thyme and truffle mousse atop an enticingly arranged dish of wild mushrooms and handmade ravioli. His movements are deft and graceful – he was born to be a chef. There is almost a literal truth to this, considering that Nick’s mother’s family is the oldest Mexican family in

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2021

Tulsa and his father was a certified KCBA judge. “Sometimes,” Andoe recalls, “you’d see my great-aunts making Mexican molé side by side with my dad’s mother making cobbler. We were all a really close family, a really large family; every meal was special, and the center of our house was the kitchen.” So it made sense that when Nick needed a job after high school, he went to Monte’s (a bistro steakhouse on Brookside). He started as a busser, but he “wanted to hang with the cool guys in the kitchen,” so he became a line cook. At the same time, he attended cooking school at OSU Okmulgee. And then he enlisted. You can find a video of a younger, shyer Andoe, dressed in camo and wishing his mom, grandma and great aunts a happy Mother’s Day. It was filmed in an army base located in Tikrit, Iraq, right in the middle of a warzone. “It was a hot time,” says Andoe, and that’s all he’ll say. Except to state that his five years as a sergeant taught him a lot about how to be a good chef. “You learn to be part of a team,” he says. “You’re only as good as your weakest link, so if you’re executive chef and the dishwasher needs help, you run and help him.” Fast forward ten years and Andoe’s the executive chef at a restaurant in San Francisco. Over a thousand miles away, a bartender named Tony Galvez is working hard in Tulsa. He’s kind, and so industrious that every bar patron from ten years ago remembers him fondly. But he wants more. Finally, he saves enough to open his own restaurant: Local Bison. He has big dreams, and he lures Andoe back to Tulsa.

Andoe’s menu has so many fantastic choices. First, the candied pork belly. It takes almost 24 hours to make. “First we give it a dry rub, then we hard sear it,” says Andoe. “Then we confit it for six hours. It cools and sets for 12 hours, and just before we serve it, we sear it, coat it in brown sugar, and hit it with a blowtorch like creme brulee. It’s barbecue meets French umami.” Many dishes pay homage to his family. Chicken is served with a peanut butter molé sauce, a familial recipe. “The traditional molé is flavored with chocolate,” he explains, “but we were poor and peanut butter was cheaper.” And the wildly popular deviled eggs are his grandmother’s recipe ... though, probably, his grandmother didn’t use ras el hanout. That unexpected Moroccan spice blend excites even the most jaded palates. Working in San Francisco thrilled Nick every day. But Tulsa? It thrills him even more. “The food scene in Tulsa is going to explode,” he enthuses. “And we’ll be part of it. Mary Sorenson just joined me as my sous chef. She was executive chef for the Seattle Mariners! And she came back to me in Tulsa. Tony has bought the storefronts on either side of us. One will be Mediterranean pizza casual, the other will be a grab and go, with great vegan options, as well as house-smoked meats. And the kitchen! It’s so tiny and we’ll double it, at least. It will be like... I’ve been driving a Ferrari round and round a parking lot and suddenly, I’m on the open highway, full throttle and pushing the limit.” BRIAN SCHWARTZ

Photo by Mark Moore courtesy Le Louvre

TA S T E | TA S T Y T I D B I T S

Le Louvre French Café

Tarahumaras Mexican Grill

With delicacies all the way from the Mexican state of Chihuahua, Tarahumaras Mexican Grill oﬀers authentic cuisine you’ll be hardpressed to find elsewhere in Oklahoma. Made fresh from scratch daily, the green and red chile salsas are comprised from the chiles of Chihuahua, creating a distinctive flavor. Try rotanas, a mix of fried onions and peppers with a special dark house sauce, served on lettuce with sliced avocados and tomatoes. House specialties include carnitas de puerco, with marinated and charbroiled pork tips topped with sautéed onions, bell peppers and tomatoes, served with rice, refried beans, guacamole and pico de gallo. Also oﬀered are Jose Cuervo Gold margaritas and beer served in frosty cold goblets. 702 N. Porter Ave., Norman; facebook.com/tarahumarasok

Bistro 38

Prepared with a passion for fresh ingredients and an abundance of herbs and spices, Bistro 38 presents a modern Thai experience. Regulars know to ask for the chef specials to discover savory gems like volcano tofu, which comes with fried tofu topped with a house sauce, comprised of four flavor sauce, peppers, onion and sweet basil leaves. Lunch special add-ons include mushroom tom yum soup and an array of fried rice choices like pad see ew, a dish of rice noodles, stir-fried with egg and broccoli in sweet dark sauce; or noodle options like tom yum fried rice, with stir-fried rice egg, red bell pepper, yellow and green onions, peas and carrots. 2903 N.W. 36th St., Suite 113, Oklahoma City; bistro38.com

Photo courtesy Balanced Coﬀee Co.

Photo courtesy Bistro 38

Photo courtesy Tarahumara

Visit Paris by way of a Parisian husband and wife, the chef and owner of Le Louvre French Café. With self-confessed exacting and high standards in the creation of alluring and authentic French cuisine, Le Louvre offers everything from crepes and croissants to a myriad of other French delicacies. Savory crepes include La Nordique with creamy garlic salmon, spinach, béchamel and cheese; and sweet crepes include La Caramel with salted caramel, slivered almonds and vanilla ice cream. Don’t miss the dessert pastries including Panier de Fruits, a large tart made with a blend of berries and pastry cream, and Feuilleté aux Poires with sweet pears and pastry cream, contained like a present inside a bowtie-shaped puff pastry. 8313 S. Memorial Dr., Tulsa; lelouvrefrenchcafe.com

Balanced Coﬀee Co.

Balanced Coffee Co. is a haven for the coffee connoisseur, and staff encourages enthusiasts to fall in love with self-care – which includes the finest coffee experience possible. Brewing the classics and balanced-flavor espresso is done by baristas professionally educated at Arkansas’ Onyx Training Lab and the American Barista Company in Portland, Ore., to hone skills and nourish a passion for the art of the perfect cup of joe. The goal is simple: to produce the best version of your personal favorite – whether it’s cold brew, a latte, cappuccino or hot chocolate – all with gourmet flavor options. Chai, matcha and fine green teas are also lovingly presented for a curated cup of healthy goodness. 120 E. Ninth, Ste. 2, Stillwater; balancedcoffeeco.com TRACY LEGRAND

DECEMBER 2021 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

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: THE POLAR EXPRESS IN CONCERT Dec. 4 Tulsa

PAC Get up, get on and get

ready for the ride of your life. tulsasymphony.org

TULSA BALLET PRESENTS: THE NUTCRACKER Dec.

10-19 Tulsa PAC Tulsa’s

holiday tradition returns with an all-new blockbuster production of The Nutcracker. tulsaballet.org

AMERICAN THEATER COMPANY PRESENTS: A CHRISTMAS CAROL Dec.

10-23 Tulsa PAC Robert Odle

and Richard Averill’s musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’ beloved novella about the joy of giving has been a Tulsa tradition for more than 40 years. tulsapac.com

SIGNATURE SYMPHONY PRESENTS: CHRISTMAS IN TULSA Dec. 11 TCC

Van Trease PACE Kick oﬀ

the holiday season with Signature Symphony’s annual holiday concert. signaturesymphony.org

A LITTLE BIT OF EVERYTHING

NATIONAL COWBOY AND WESTERN HERITAGE MUSEUM

A mixed bag of events make December an exciting time to be in Oklahoma. Tulsa welcomes ZZ Top to the River Spirit Casino Resort on Dec. 5. With soulful music described as “100% Texas American,” this concert is a can’t-miss. Other goodies in Tulsa include State of Craft, an art exhibition hosted by 108 Contemporary running Dec. 3-Jan. 23, featuring a juried survey of Oklahoma artists’ works. Stay downtown to visit Seed Reef, an ahha Tulsa exhibition running through Dec. 26; this show, described as “an immersive, sculpted paper installation of a coral reef threatened by bleaching and pollution,” was created by Emma Difani and Malcolm Zachariah. ahha also hosts Faces of Iron Gate through Jan. 2, highlighting portrait photography by Anitra Lavanhar. MANNHEIM STEAMROLLER CHRISTMAS Dec. 19 River

Spirit Casino Resort You can again celebrate the holiday magic of Mannheim Steamroller when they bring their annual holiday tour to fans throughout the country. riverspirittulsa.com

CONCERTS ZZ TOP Dec. 5 River Spirit

Casino Resort ZZ TOP’s

music is always instantly recognizable, eminently powerful, profoundly soulful and 100% Texas American in derivation. riverspirittulsa. com

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TODD SNIDER Dec. 12 Cain’s Ballroom See

the crooner with special guest Jamie Lin Wilson. cainsballroom.com

WILLIAM CLARK GREEN Dec. 31 Cain’s

Ballroom End 2021 with WCG and special guest Joshua Ray Walker. cainsballroom.com

ART STATE OF CRAFT Dec. 3-Jan.

23 108 Contemporary In this

exhibition, 108 Contemporary features Oklahoma artist members by hosting a juried survey of their work. 108contemporary.org

Photo courtesy National Cowboy and Western Heritage museum

COMMUNIT Y

In OKC, the Trans-Siberian Orchestra visits the Paycom Center (formerly the Chesapeake Energy Arena) on Dec. 8 for a dash of Christmas and nostalgia. Another highlight is Mother Roads, running Dec. 10-May 8 at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum. Utilizing photographs, rare book illustrations, maps and related ephemera, visitors can explore some of the country’s most famous thoroughfares. Around the state, the Minco Honey Festival kicks of Dec. 4 at Minco High School, where guests will be able to satisfy their sweet tooths with pure Oklahoma honey. And country fans won’t want to miss Tim McGraw, who visits the Choctaw Casino Resort in Durant on Dec. 4.

SEED REEF BY EMMA DIFANI AND MALCOLM ZACHARIAH Through Dec.

26 ahha Tulsa Seed Reef is an immersive, sculpted paper installation of a coral reef threatened by bleaching and pollution. ahhatulsa.org

FACES OF IRON GATE Through Jan. 2 ahha

Tulsa The exhibition Faces of Iron Gate showcases portrait photography by Anitra Lavanhar. ahhatulsa.org

THIS IS AN ADVENTURE: ACCIDENTALLY WES ANDERSON Through Jan.

2 Philbrook This showcase

features distinctively dra-

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matic photographs of locations around the world taken by the Accidentally Wes Anderson community. philbrook.org

ANOTHER WORLD: THE TRANSCENDENTAL PAINTING GROUP Through Feb. 20 Philbrook In a

period of great change and uncertainty, a small group of artists in New Mexico joined together in a mutual need to explore spirituality through abstraction. philbrook.org

NEW WAVES: A SIGNAL FOR CHANGE Through

March 13 Philbrook New Waves: Signals for Change features works by artists in Philbrook’s collection,

National Cowboy Heritage museum

including Harry Fonseca and Fritz Scholder. philbrook.org

SPORTS TULSA OILERS HOCKEY Dec. 2-3, 5, 9-10,

12, 19 BOK Center The

Oilers take on a variety of regular season foes this month. tulsaoilers.com

OU VS. ARKANSAS MEN’S BASKETBALL Dec. 11 BOK

Center Witness Oklahoma’s premier high school basketball tournament live at the 56th annual Tournament of Champions. bokcenter. com

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TULSA HOLIDAY CIRCUIT Dec. 30-Jan.

2 Expo Square This show is an American Quarter Horse Association and Oklahoma Quarter Horse Association approved circuit since 1980. tulsaholidaycircuit.com

COMMUNITY FIRST FRIDAY ART CRAWL Dec. 3 Downtown Tulsa

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

TULSA FARM SHOW Dec.

Tulsa is transformed into a festive wonderland during Winterfest, an annual holiday tradition. tulsawinterfest.com

IN OKC

PERFORMANCES

OKC PHIL PRESENTS: THE CHRISTMAS SHOW Dec. 3-4 Civic

Center Music Hall Back by popular demand, the OKCPHIL presents The Christmas Show featuring Santa, his elves, and everyone’s favorite, The Tap Dancing Santas. okcphil.org

CANTERBURY VOICES PRESENTS: MESSIAH Dec. 5 Civic

Center Music Hall A musical

9-11 Expo Square Don’t miss this annual event in the SageNet Center. exposquare.

rite of the holiday season, Canterbury Voices presents Handel’s Baroque-period oratorio Messiah. okccivic-

TULSA DOG TRAINING CLUB AGILITY TRIAL Dec.

OKC BALLET PRESENTS: THE NUTCRACKER Dec.

com

10-12 Expo Square Canines

and their owners will descend upon Ranger Arena for three days of competition. exposquare.com

TULSA CHRISTMAS

PARADE Dec. 11 Downtown Tulsa This festive

celebration includes floats, bands, drill teams, dancers and giant balloons. tulsachristmasparade.org

PHILBROOK FESTIVAL Through Dec.

31 Philbrook This all-day

experience features a regular schedule of holiday-themed oﬀerings and activities for the whole family. philbrook.org

GARDEN OF LIGHTS Through Jan. 2 Tulsa

Botanic Garden Visit a magical

garden aglow with festive lights during the Garden of Lights at Tulsa Botanic Garden. tulsabotanic.org

WINTERFEST Through Jan.

3 Downtown Tulsa Downtown

center.com

11-19 Civic Center Music Hall All will be merry and

bright as Oklahoma City’s favorite holiday production, The Nutcracker, fills the Civic Center. okcballet.org

A MAGICAL CIRQUE CHRISTMAS Dec. 22 Civic

Center Music Hall The world’s greatest entertainers unite for a spell-binding and incredible holiday production. okcciviccenter.com

LYRIC THEATRE PRESENTS: LYRIC’S A CHRISTMAS CAROL Through Dec. 23 Lyric at

the Harn Homestead Closing the year, Oklahoma’s favorite holiday tradition, Lyric’s A Christmas Carol, returns for its 11th year lyrictheatreokc.

com

CONCERTS OF KING AND COUNTRY Dec. 2 Paycom

SPORTS

WINTERTIME ACTIVITIES

To escape the hustle and bustle of holiday stress, pop in to one of many sporting events around the state this month. In Tulsa, the Oilers are keeping up with regular season hockey games at the BOK Center. Visit Dec. 2-3, 5, 9-10, 12 and 19 to cheer on the city’s team. In OKC, the Thunder are swiftly working through the regular season. With games Dec. 1, 10, 12, 15, 18, 22, 26 and 31 at the Paycom Center, you’ll likely find at least one game that works for your schedule. For fans of college basketball, the OU Sooners play at home Dec. 19 and 22 at the Lloyd Noble Center; and the OSU Cowboys play at home Dec. 5, 8, and 16 at the Gallagher-Iba Arena. At OKC’s State Fair Park, the Open Wrestling Championship runs Dec. 31-Jan. 1. There, you’ll see some of the state’s best wrestlers compete for top prizes. And at the Claremore Expo Center, you won’t want to miss the Hoosier Arenacross Nationals on Dec. 3-4, replete with motorized, adrenalinepumping action. A Drummer Boy Christmas tour. paycomcenter.com

TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA Dec.

8 Paycom Center Multiplatinum, progressive rock group Trans-Siberian Orchestra (TSO) is celebrating 25 years of Christmas Eve and Other Stories. paycomcenter.com

Center See the band on its

OKC THUNDER

Photo by NBAE/Getty Images

and Western m

TULSA SHOOTOUT Dec.

29-Jan. 1 Expo Square See adrenaline-pumping racing events at Expo Square. tulsashootout.com

FOR AMERICA Through Jan. 30 OKCMOA This

ART MOTHER ROADS Dec.

10-May 8 National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum Through

photographs, rare book illustrations, maps and related ephemera, visitors will explore some of the country’s most famous thoroughfares. nationalcbowymuseum.org

exhibition features 99 paintings created between 1809 and the present, by masters such as Winslow Homer, John Singer Sargent and Andrew Wyeth. okc-

moa.com

NUCLEAR ENCHANTMENT: PATRICK NAGATANI Through Jan. 30 Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art Over a 40-year career,

Patrick Nagatani created a diverse body of work that pushed the contours of photography. ou.edu/fjjma

FRAMEWORK: EXPLORING THE ARTISTIC PROCESS

Through Feb. 27 National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum There is

more to art than meets the eye. Behind every piece of art is a creative process.

nationalcowboymuseum.org

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WHERE & WHEN | ENTERTAINMENT SANTA FE TRAIL Through

May 8 National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum Us-

ing material culture and art objects from the museum’s collection this exhibition will recognize the bicentennial of this most important National Heritage Trail. nationalcowboymuseum.org

SPORTS OKC THUNDER BASKETBALL Dec. 1, 10, 12, 15, 18, 22, 26, 31 Paycom Center See

Oklahoma’s NBA team play regular season games. pay-

comcenter.com

2021 NRHA FUTURITY SHOW Through Dec. 4 State

POLLARD THEATRE PRESENTS: IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE Through Dec. 23 Pollard

Theatre, Guthrie This beloved holiday classic tells the story of George Bailey as he considers ending his life one fateful Christmas Eve. thepollard.org

CONCERTS THREE DOG NIGHT Dec. 3 Choctaw Casino Resort Durant One

of rock’s biggest names visits Durant. choctawcasinos.com

TIM MCGRAW Dec. 4 Choctaw Casino Resort Durant Beloved

country music star Tim McGraw comes to Choctaw Casino. choctawcasinos.com

Fair Park Equine experts and

DUSTIN LYNCH Dec.

grounds.com

Durant End 2021 on the right foot with country star Dustin Lynch. choctawcasinos.com

their horses converge on the Jim Norick Arena for several days of competition. okcfair-

OKC FUTURITY Dec. 8-12 State Fair Park Heart-

31 Choctaw Casino Resort

SPORTS

pounding equine enjoyment can be found at the State Fair Park. okcfairgrounds.com

HOOSIER ARENACROSS NATIONALS Dec. 3-4 Claremore

THE 2022 JR. OPEN WRESTLING CHAMPIONSHIP Dec. 31-Jan. 1 State Fair

high-flying nights of motorized, adrenaline-pumping arenacross action. travelok.com

Park See some of the state’s best wrestlers compete for top prizes. okcfairgrounds.com

COMMUNITY

Expo Center Experience two

COMMUNITY MINCO HONEY FESTIVAL Dec. 4 Minco High School

FIRST FRIDAY GALLERY WALK Dec. 3 Paseo

Satisfy your sweet tooth at the Minco Honey Festival with pure Oklahoma honey. minco-

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

WOOLAROC WONDERLAND OF LIGHTS Through

Arts District Visitors can

OKC TRAIN SHOW Dec. 4-5 State Fair Park Locomotive

enthusiasts won’t want to miss this two-day event. okcfairgrounds.org

THE POLAR EXPRESS

Through Dec. 31 Oklahoma Railway Museum Get in the

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

polarexpressride.com

DOWNTOWN IN DECEMBER Through Jan. 30 Downtown OKC Spend

ok.com/minco/festival.htm

Dec. 19 Woolaroc Museum and Wildlife Preserve, Bartlesville Embark on a winter

adventure to the Woolaroc Ranch. woolaroc.org

MIDWEST CITY HOLIDAY LIGHTS SPECTACULAR

Through Dec. 25 Joe B. Barnes Regional Park, Midwest City Celebrate the magic of

the season as over one million lights transform Joe B. Barnes Regional Park into a twinkling winter wonderland. midwest-

your holidays experiencing fun activities as downtown Oklahoma City. downtownin-

cityok.org

THE STATE

holiday event include the 50-foot, multi-colored, lighted Christmas tree, the Santa Express Train ride and an ice skating rink. travelok.com

THE POLAR EXPRESS IN CONCERT WITH THE TULSA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Dec.

HOLIDAYS ON ICE Through

december.com

PERFORMANCES

2 McKnight Center for the Performing Arts, Stillwater

Experience this beloved movie as you never have before – with a live symphony orchestra. mck-

nightcenter.org

THE CEMENT OPRY Dec. 4 410 N. Main, Cement The Cement

Opry is a monthly live variety show held in the Jesse James Ballroom. travelok.com

CHRISTMAS IN THE PARK

Through Dec. 31 Yukon City Park Highlights of this beloved

Jan. 2 400 S. Independence Ave.,

Enid Located in the Stride Bank Center’s parking lot, you will have the opportunity to skate under festive twinkle lights. skateinenid. com

THE WOOLAROC RETROSPECTIVE EXHIBIT & SALE Through

Dec. 31 Woolaroc Museum and

Wildlife Preserve, Bartlesville If you love art or just have a great appreciation for wildlife and nature, you won’t want to miss this exciting exhibit. woolaroc.org

FOR MORE EVENTS IN TULSA, OKC AND AROUND THE STATE, HEAD TO OKMAG.COM.

FILM AND CINEMA

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2021

A STRONG CLOSER

A movie in just about every genre can be found at theaters and on streaming platforms this month.

ecember is here, and there are soooo many movies. Strap in, we’ve got a lot to cover! Prepare yourself for some song and dance numbers as we begin the month with West Side Story. Directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Ansel Elgort (Baby Driver) and Rachel Zegler in her film debut, it looks like the Oscar contender of the season. With massive choreographed spectacles and dazzling costumes, Spielberg hopes to get the whole family together starting on Dec. 10. Next up, the Netflix comedy Don’t Look Up. It tells the story of two astronomers, played by Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Lawrence, who must warn all of humankind about a comet and its impending collision course with Earth. Written and directed by Adam McKay (The Big Short), the story should have his usual black comedy elements, along with some great performances from a stellar cast. It releases on Dec. 10. Amazon is gifting us with a sci-fi thriller called Encounter. Starring Riz Ahmed (Sound of Metal) as a veteran Marine, the story finds him trying to keep his kids safe from both the army and an alien invasion. The trailer leads me to believe there might be some body horror elements, so take a look when it releases on – you guessed it – Dec. 10. A psychological thriller courtesy of Guillermo Del Toro (Pan’s Labyrinth) graces the screen this month. Based on the 1946 novel of the same name, Nightmare Alley boasts an all-star ensemble cast including Bradley Cooper, Cate Blanchett,

Toni Collette and Willem Dafoe. The trailer is full of carnies, grifters, femme fatales and some truly eye-catching scenery. It will hit theaters Dec. 17. Marvel’s next heavy hitter comes this month with Spider-Man: No Way Home. As the fourth film in Phase 4 of (what I assume will be the unfortunately never ending) Marvel Cinematic Universe, Peter Parker (Tom Holland) asks Dr. Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch) to use his magic to restore his secret identity, but the results are ... not quite perfect. Alfred Molina and Jamie Foxx return from previous films, with heavy rumors that previous Spider-Mans Tobey Maguire and Andrew Garfield will show up. We’ll all find out together on Dec. 17. Over twenty years later, we’re getting another installment in The Matrix franchise with The Matrix Resurrections. Directed by Lana Wachowski, the story continues with Neo (Keanu Reeves) as Thomas A. Anderson, living a seemingly normal life back inside the Matrix. However, things quickly take a turn to open his mind back up. Carrie-Ann Moss returns as Trinity, along with a host of both new and familiar faces. You can jack in on Dec. 22 ... as long as you take the red pill. Lastly, Joel Coen directs a Shakespearean classic with The Tragedy of Macbeth. Starring Denzel Washington in the title role, with Frances McDormand and Brendan Gleeson supporting, the film looks absolutely stunning. Shot in black and white and in 4:3, the tragedy will surely be a spectacle when it releases on Christmas Day. DREW JOSEPH ALLEN

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CLOSING THOUGHTS

Mautra Staley Jones

autra Staley Jones, M.B.A., Ed.D., is a lifelong educator and devoted academic diplomat, serving as Vice President of Institutional Advancement and External Affairs at Langston University, as well as the executive director of the Langston University Foundation. Additionally, Jones speaks on a variety of topics around Oklahoma and serves in leadership positions for numerous businesses and committees, including as a director of the BancFirst Corporation and the Oklahoma Hall of Fame. She has also received public recognition and awards for her business acumen and community involvement. We caught up with her and got her thoughts on ...

...her passion for making a diﬀerence.

God blessed me with an incredible amount of energy, enthusiasm and optimism. I suppose I needed those attributes to overcome all the obstacles I’ve faced in life. I strongly believe that my very humble beginnings shaped my life’s work and mission. My grandmother, who raised me as a proud daughter of Ardmore, instilled in me the value of faith, family, fortitude and freedom. I watched her serve as a remarkable example to me and my siblings as the matriarch of our family, and I have always been inspired by her strength, tenacity, dignity and wisdom. I now get to share that same love with my amazing husband and children, who inspire me every single day to be the best version of myself and continue to pursue excellence. We all have a duty to leave this world better than we found it, and that is a notion that has driven my service to our great state.

... what she’s looking forward to.

I have spent the past twenty years transforming lives by ensuring youth from underserved communities have resources and opportunities to pursue their goals and dreams. In this regard, I look forward to continuing to strengthen my leadership. I also look forward to serving our state, region and country in a much greater capacity. Given that I have witnessed youth, teens and young adults

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2021

Photo courtesy Mautra Staley Jones

FOR MORE, VISIT OKMAG.COM/ STALEYJONES experience hopelessness and despair due to circumstances they did not create, my heart’s desire is that those same people have the necessary tools and assistance that sets them up for success. I hope to continue inspiring people. The sky is the limit, and I believe it is up to each of us to bless others when we have the time, talent and treasure to effectively do so.

... her favorite public speaking topics.

As a mother of faith, I am most proud when I get to share about my motherhood journey and my children with audiences. Education is also a real passion of mine, because I have witnessed its transformative power not only in my life, but in those I’ve been blessed to serve. I recently had a chance to provide the keynote address at The Journal Record’s 2021 Woman of the Year event, wherein my message centered around “Am I the victim or the victor: Does the life I choose to lead reflect this chosen path and state of mind?” Sharing about my life is meaningful as it allows me to instill hope, courage and light into others by providing a testimony about my own trials, tribulations and triumphs.

... lessons she’s learned.

1. Ensure the company’s culture aligns with your values, goals and beliefs. When those things are in alignment, you will more likely than not thrive in that type of environment. 2. Ensure the organization honors and respects your contributions, encourages your growth as a professional and invests in your leadership development. 3. You must be set up for success in order to achieve. 4. The resource allocation reconciles with the expectations and goals. 5. Be fearless in your pursuit of excellence. 6. Do what makes your soul happy. 7. Stay focused on the mission and you can’t go wrong. 8. Know when it is time to transition to greater. 9. Always leave an organization better than you found it. 10. If you want to be the victor, give time in your life only to those that seek your victory.

... the ‘secret’ to balancing her many commitments.

There is no secret. I’ve learned the key to achieving success is any endeavor is prioritization. My life is far from stress free, but ultimately, I decide where I focus my energy. I’ve learned through the years to avoid negativity at all costs and to strictly focus on the positive.

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Oklahoma Magazine 2021 december

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