Tulsa Lifestyle December 2014

Tulsa december 2014

TulsaLifestylePubs.com

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Local Watch Company Keeps Time Petty’s Fine Foods for Your Festivities Breathe In A Stress-free Holiday

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December 2014 | Tulsa Lifestyle

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Editor’s Letter

Traditions. december 2014

“...brown paper packages tied up with strings…”

T

he comfort of rhythms in our lives is hardly more celebrated than during the holidays. Julie Andrews probably didn’t realize all those years ago when she sang “My Favorite Things” for the movie version of The Sound of Music that her song would become a part of our holiday traditions, but isn’t that how the best ones get started? While current trends encourage us to be intentional about creating memories these days, it’s also great to reflect on some of the traditions we fall into “just because.” We’re excited to bring you this issue that celebrates some of the great traditions of the season around our town.

publisher Kathy Slemp | KSlemp@LifestylePubs.com

editorial coordinator

Kendra Mathewson | KMathewson@lifestylepubs.com

regional sales director Michael Arel | MArel@LifestylePubs.com

home & fashion editor Natalie Nirk contributing writers

And while we’re on the subject, we thought we’d share some of OUR favorite things about holiday traditions. What are yours? We’d love to hear from you on our Facebook page.

Homemade Cinnamon Rolls - I love making homemade cinnamon rolls and giving them to family. It is a tradition that my oldest daughter and I began and she loves to help. – Lara Friend, Contributing Writer Being With Family – Now that our kids are grown, what I look forward to most is just having our kids and grandkids all together during the holidays… sitting and talking, laughing and crying as we reminisce and tell stories, and praying together.

– Mike Arel, Regional Sales Director

Ali and Chris Barnes, Lara Friend, Natalie Nirk, Anne Potter Russ

contributing photographers Freeman Imaging, Courtney Wooden/Defining Image Photography Published monthly, subscriptions are also available for $22 for 1 year, $39 for 2 years by visiting TulsaLifestylePubs.com

corporate team chief executive officer | Steven Schowengerdt chief sales officer | Matthew Perry chief financial officer | DeLand Shore

Going to multiple houses on Christmas Day - It’s a tradition that started well before I was born. On Christmas day our very large family consisting of cousins, aunts and uncles, great aunts and uncles, grandparents and grandchildren, goes around to each other’s house’s to eat and celebrate. Everyone prepares food for the rest of the family then heads out into the cold air to go to the other houses. There’s lots of driving involved but there’s also lots of Christmas spirit. – Sara Minor, Art Director

regional sales director | Michael Arel production director | Christina Sandberg director of marketing | Brad Broockerd art director | Sara Minor ad coordinators | Cyndi Vreeland, Samantha Engel layout designer | Liesl Poet

Our Christmas Tree Angel – Every year, when it comes time to decorate our tree, we pull out the Angel that topped my mother’s tree for so many years before she passed in 1995.

She’s absolutely beautiful with a porcelain face and long, flowing, burgundy dress… but that’s not what makes her special. Somehow, she always makes it feel like I get to spend the holiday season with my mom. – Courtney Wooden, Contributing Photographer

copy editor | Kendra Mathewson executive assistant | Lori Cunningham application architect | Michael O’Connell it director | Randy Aufderheide

From everyone at Tulsa Lifestyle, we wish you a wonderful holiday.

Lifestyle Publications Staff

by Community ™ on the cover For more than a decade, South Tulsa

Children’s Ballet dancers have retold the delightful Christmas classic, The Nutcracker. photography by Freeman Imaging

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P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214 Proverbs 3:5-6 Tulsa Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of Tulsa’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.

Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Tulsa Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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Be...A Servant Be...A Cascian John LaFortune graduated from Cascia Hall in 1977.

After working as a professional photographer for 15 years, he returned to Cascia Hall in 1999 to serve as school photographer and instructor in the Fine & Performing Arts Department. John is a Kairos retreat leader and sponsors several extracurricular activities including Acoustic Instruments Club, Bowling Club, and Key Club which provides service in the Tulsa community. He is an Eagle Scout and currently serves as Assistant Scoutmaster with Troop 26.

John LaFortune Class of 1977

“When I think of John LaFortune, the word that comes to mind is service,” said Headmaster Roger Carter.

2520 S. Yorktown Ave. Tulsa, OK 918-746-2600

www.casciahall.org admissions@casciahall.org December 2014 | Tulsa Lifestyle

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December 2014

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Departments 8

Around Town

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Hot Spot

16

Style Wise

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Healthy Lifestyle

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Sold Properties

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Lifestyle Calendar

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Parting Thoughts

12 Dancing Delight

Discover what new twist South Tulsa Children’s Ballet is

putting on their traditional holiday performance this year.

14 Local Watchmaker is a Timeless Tradition

This local treasure has been making quality custom watches

in Tulsa for almost 80 years.

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Happy Holidays from our family to yours!

I’m so glad I’m here at Saint Simeon’s.

I love exercising in the Wellness Center, walking around the beautiful campus, and watching the colorful peacocks.

Sincerely, Louise

Saint Simeon’s daughter-in-la Resident Louise with son Pat w Carla, Santa ri and Mrs. Clausck, .

Half-H_7.62x5_Tulsa-Lifestyle.indd 1

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918-425-3583 | www.saintsimeons.org Saint Simeon’s is a mission of the Episcopal Diocese of Oklahoma.

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Around Town If you have a different tradition for the holidays, try one of the many other items they offer to make the holidays special, such as a beautifully cooked whole smoked turkey. Delight your friends and family when you arrive at their holiday party with one of the Hamlet’s custom-made gift baskets.

For your own holiday party, give yourself a gift: forego the hassle and let the staff at the 91st and Sheridan location do the work while you relax with a glass of your favorite wine on their fabulous new enclosed patio.

When you’re on the run, easily place your order online at HamletHams.com or call 918.495.1466 and the helpful staff will guide you. Follow them on Facebook for all Hamlet-related news.

CPFA President Tammy Hern, Headmaster Roger Carter, and Christmas Walk co-chairs Jackie Stagg and Cynthia Outlaw. Photography John LaFortune

32ND ANNUAL CASCIA HALL CHRISTMAS WALK One of Tulsa’s long-standing traditions continues this year as Cascia Hall Preparatory School and the Cascia Parent Faculty Association sponsor the 32nd Cascia Christmas Walk on Sunday, December 7, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. The event includes a tour of three beautifully decorated homes and, back by popular demand, the school’s monastery will be decorated for touring as well. The beautiful St. Rita of Cascia Chapel will be added to the tour for the first time this year! The Holiday Boutique will feature over 60 vendors with special and unique gift offerings. Cascia Bistro will feature tasty treats, with Topeca coffee and Andolini’s catering again this year.

Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Purchase tickets at the school (cash and check) or online (credit card).

Cascia’s Christmas Walk is a celebration of Christmas that benefits the Augustinian education offered by Cascia Hall Preparatory School. Proceeds this year will support technology and transportation needs and the Cascia Hall financial aid program.

FILL THE PLATE You can help fill the plates of so many people in our community this holiday season. By donating to the Community Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma in December, your gift could go twice as far. The George Kaiser Family Foundation is matching donations from all new or increased donors, dollar-for-dollar, up to $150,000. For each dollar donated and matched, the Food Bank can distribute eight meals to those struggling with hunger in our community.

To learn more about the Community Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma or to make a donation, visit OKFoodBank.org.

TRADITIONAL HOLIDAY HAMS (AND MORE) AT THE HAMLET Since 1986, Tulsa families have turned to The Hamlet when they want the best for their families and guests. They are well known for their delicious spiral sliced honey-kissed hams, a traditional holiday offering.

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Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2014

2ND ANNUAL TOYS FOR TOTS POKER RUN HOSTED BY JEEPERS ANONYMOUS The mission of the U. S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program is to collect new, unwrapped toys during October, November and December each year, and distribute those toys as Christmas gifts to less fortunate children in the community in which the campaign is conducted.

Tulsa’s local Jeepers Anonymous group supports Toys for Tots with its annual Poker Run event scheduled this year for Saturday, December 6th, from 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. The finale of the poker run is a gathering of all the participating Jeepers and a huge raffle (since we all know Jeepers love more Jeep stuff).

Jeepers Anonymous’ goal this year is to donate 1,500 toys to Tulsa Marines to help local children. They hope to see 200-300 Jeepers participate in this event.

Jeepers Anonymous was established in February of 2012 by a small group of friends. Today, those “friends” exceed 600 members and the group is continually growing. Their mission statement is to promote a safe, family oriented, fun and friendly group of Jeepers for on and off-road events, while also being involved in and giving back to the community. JeepersAnonymous.org

MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR TOYLAND BALL 2015 The Parent Child Center is thrilled to be celebrating the 25th birthday of the Toyland Ball this year. They have planned a funfilled evening of dinner, dancing, live auction and, of course, plenty of birthday cake. Join them for the extravagant festivities on January 17, 2015, at the Cox Business Center. Event Chairs Jennifer and Bill Legler, along with Honorary Chairs Becky and Jack Frank, will lead the celebration and The Sherman E. Smith Family Charitable Foundation will receive the prestigious 2015 Guardian Angel Award. For more information or to purchase your tickets, visit ParentChildCenter.org.

VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA SUPPORTS FEATURE FILM As part of its ongoing work with people with Alzheimer’s and their families and caregivers, Volunteers of America is supporting the documentary feature film, I’ll Be Me, chronicling Glen Campbell’s goodbye tour.

Tulsa’s private screening of Glen Campbell . . . I’ll Be Me was presented by Volunteers of America Oklahoma, LIFE Senior Services, Alzheimer’s Association and Leading Age Oklahoma on October 2nd at Circle Cinema.

December 2014 | Tulsa Lifestyle

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Hot Spot

Petty’s Fine Foods Tulsa’s Specialty Store Mainstay Article Lara Friend | Photography Provided

T

hinking back over how much has changed in our great city in just the last half-century can be mind-boggling. Although we embrace the many new developments in Tulsa, we cherish the things that have stood the test of time.

Petty’s has been a towering mainstay in the Utica Square area for nearly 70 years. It was established in 1945 by founders L.G. Rowan and Robert D. Petty, and is now owned and operated by the third generation of the family, Scott and Maureen Petty. After college Scott was commissioned as Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army’s infantry and started a career in military and commercial aviation, but accepted an early out from Vietnam. He then returned to Tulsa and started his career with Petty’s, and has now been involved with Petty’s for over 43 years. Scott’s wife, Maureen, handles all of the catering through Catering by Maureen, tackling anything from corporate parties to weddings and most anything in between.

“I’m approaching my busiest season and already have 20 parties booked for the last 6 weeks of the year,” Maureen says. The family is excited to celebrate their 70th year of business this coming February.

“What separates us from other grocery stores is our many long time employees,” explains Scott.

“You can’t put a value on that.”

They always have a friendly and helpful staff that goes the extra mile, and Petty’s overall employs approximately 52 people.

One thing I always love to purchase and sample on my visits

to Petty’s are the baked goods. All of the bakery items are made in-house including French baguettes, European style pastries, cookies, bagels, doughnuts, and much more. Their bakery is actually located in the basement below the store, but at one time the bakery was located above Petty’s where Miss Jackson’s is now.

“We are known for our brownies,” says Scott, and when tasting them it is no mystery as to why. I also got to sample a bit of chocolate cake and strawberry cake. All were delicious and can rival any of the other specialty bakeries in the Tulsa area.

Petty’s has an immense variety of specialty and imported cheeses.

They also offer a full service sushi bar with a wide variety of different sushi rolls, and there is a full-service deli offering Boars Head meats, an assortment of handmade salads, entrees, and soups. The soups vary daily, and on my recent visit a customer had come in just to purchase all of their split pea soup that was made that day. He said it was his personal favorite and their recipe was wonderful.

“Loyal customers are one of our greatest attributes,” says Scott.

Petty’s meat counter is full of a vast array of fine, fresh meats from their own in-house butcher shop. They carry some meat products that you often can’t find at larger grocery chains, such as veal and lamb, and now carry prime cuts of beef.

This is one of the few grocery stores left that have home delivery, a service that many people use. They also offer a large variety of elaborate gift baskets sure

Petty’s original location just across the street from Utica Square 10

Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2014

to please that special someone, varying from steak baskets to fruit.

Petty’s stays very busy during the holidays, and many people have trusted Petty’s to cook their holiday meals for decades.

They offer traditional holiday meals that include turkey, ham, beef brisket, pork loin and all the traditional sides. All the items are cooked prior and refrigerated, then delivered to maintain freshness and quality. Their full menu can be viewed on their website.

We Take Care of Your Pet at Every Age and Every Stage.

Lara Friend, a dedicated wife and mother of two, is a culinary arts graduate from Oklahoma State Institute of Technology. She currently enjoys life as a homemaker and writer, and simply loves working with food.

Petty’s Fine Foods 1964 Utica Square Tulsa, OK 74152 918.747.8616 PettysFineFoods.com

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www.aec-tulsa.com December 2014 | Tulsa Lifestyle

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A Children’s South Tulsa Children’s Ballet presents a special holiday tradition for all ages

Article Natalie Nirk | Photography Freeman Imaging

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ute little Clara opens her Nutcracker gift and twirls around in utter adoration of him. Mice of all sizes fly acrobatically through the air, from the tiniest mouse possible, who rolls by atop a chunk of cheese, to the formidable Mouse King.

The Snow Queen and Sugarplum Fairies appear, glittering from head to toe, on pointe in perfect tutus, while Arabian dancers mesmerize. Little ones dressed in adorable gingerbread cookie costumes come happily tumbling out of a giant oven, bringing tears to my eyes. These are only a handful of the many precious parts in the colorful Children’s Nutcracker I’ve enjoyed watching each holiday season for several years.

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Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2014

I first became aware of this fantastic show almost 10 years ago, when my oldest daughter started lessons at The Dance Pointe with Pamela Farry-Haden, who is known by her students as “Miss Farry.”

Farry-Haden, the studio’s owner and one of several dance instructors, is also the creator of South Tulsa Children’s Ballet, a 501 3-C nonprofit organization that’s been putting on A Children’s Nutcracker every December since 2002.

What prompted Farry-Haden to start this organization was observing the need for more opportunities allowing children to gain education and professional experience in the dance industry. Growing up

as a dancer in Tulsa, Pam struggled to gain the complete classical ballet experience she desired with large productions, often due to age limitations and too few parts.

“I was really skinny and really tall, so I didn’t fit the Nutcracker costumes well, and there weren’t a lot of other productions to participate in,” says Farry-Haden.

“When I went to college at OU, I found that other dancers from different areas had more fulfilling experiences with dance productions than I was able to get here.”

She had a wonderful vision to create something new for all dance, theater or gymnastics students ages four to 18 in our region to participate in, regardless of men-

Owner Pamela Farry-Haden had a wonderful vision to create something new for all dance, theater or gymnastics students ages four to 18 in our region to participate in, regardless of mental or physical limitations, experience or where they study.

tal or physical limitations, experience or where they study. STCB ensures that every child who auditions gets a part based on his or her abilities, and they try to never give the same part to a child more than once.

Farry-Haden also envisioned a Nutcracker show that stuck to the traditional version, complete with all the gorgeous tutus (which happen to be quite expensive!), unlike updated versions of the performance seen elsewhere.

With a cast of more than 250 children from over 15 different area performing arts studios participating in three different large performances, it’s an enormous operation. Having seen behind the scenes, I’ve been nothing short of amazed by the high level of professionalism, the degree of organization, and the children’s performances.

Auditions for parts are in September had several students interested in becomeach year and rehearsals are every week ing dance teachers.

New twists, characters, and choreuntil the shows start. STCB is diligent about doing its best to assign parts to each ography are added to the performances child that won’t interfere with any oth- each year, and it’s rumored the acrobater activities listed on the audition form. ics this year are sure to be better than These rehearsals require the help of many ever. Both of Farry-Haden’s daughters, volunteers and assigned parent coordina- Brianna and Rachel, are very involved tors to ensure safety and to keep everyone with all of their mother’s endeavors and have had many different parts in these informed and prepared.

“It’s all about their education, and I shows through the years. Even their Chilove that I’m able to teach some kids from huahua, Snickers, has a short part during very small studios,” Farry-Haden ex- the party scene, and Farry-Haden’s husplains. “I have kids that travel from other band, Jeff, helps backstage or otherwise. surrounding towns to participate, such He is often spotted as one of the party as Cleveland, Muskogee or Bartlesville, scene guests, along with parents of severwhose families are happy to commit to al other students.

“Everybody gets a part, no matter what,” driving the distance for months.”

As a dance major, Farry-Haden was edu- says Farry-Haden. “We have one girl on cated on all the important aspects of produc- crutches now and we’re being creative to tions such as lighting, stage design, costume keep her in the show.” Flexibility and posdesign (including sewing), and stage hair and itive attitudes are what make it a success makeup. Through STCB she’s able to give and a worthwhile venture for all partickids experience with all of these things at no ipants. This truly is a Nutcracker expericost to them. Even the beautifully intricate ence like no other, and it’s fun for all ages costumes are supplied for the children to and walks of life to see.

For more information on tickets to the perforwear at dress rehearsals and performances.

“It’s so much fun for them and develops mances or events, how to volunteer, or to donate a deeper education base than what they funds or items for the silent auctions, please visit can get as adults,” she says. She feels the SouthTulsaChildrensBallet.org. versatility and open-mindMake STCB’s Nutracker Part of Your Holiday Tradition edness of the Tickets range from $18-$25/person program enSaturday December 6th Performances: 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. courages kids Sunday December 7th Matinee: 2 p.m. to stick with Nutcracker Tea - $25/person: Saturday, December 6th at 2 p.m. dance as they Silent Auction fundraiser during all performances get older. One of her high Location: Tulsa Community College, VanTrease PACE Performance school-age stuCenter, Southeast Campus: 10300 E. 81st S., Tulsa, OK 74133 dents is a stage manager this To Order Tickets: 918.595.7777 or MyTicketOffice.com year, and she’s December 2014 | Tulsa Lifestyle

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Tailored

A Tulsa tradition for nearly 80 years, Selco watchmakers meticulously create quality timepieces.

Timepieces A

s times keep changing it can sometimes get difficult to keep up with the pace and roll with the punches. But some things stay the same, or in this case get better due to the ability to embrace change at the right time while keeping with tradition. What started out as a single jewelry store owned by Jack ( J.D.) Seligson has really come through quite an evolution here in Tulsa.

Selco, “The Original Logo Watch Company,” has been making watches for nearly 80 years. That’s a long time. Seligson grew his single store into a successful chain of fine jewelry stores eventually run by his son-in-law, Larry Abels. In 1961, the executive vice president of what later became CITGO walked into one of these stores in Tulsa to buy a sparkling gift for his wife.

He later called back with a unique idea: He wanted to reward his company’s 25year employees with customized engraved watches including the employees’ names, which at the time was a new concept for Selco. The company figured out how to get this order done and it went over so well that the custom watches became their best-selling items.

“Tulsa was the oil capital of the world and we started doing corporate gifts all the time,” says Larry. Household names like Phillips Petroleum, Coca-Cola, and Southwest Airlines are just a few that have ordered substantial amounts of their custom watches over the years.

“My dad said the custom watch division was more fun than retail jewelry, so it all made great sense,” says Larry’s son, Mark Abels,

Local watchmaker has been keeping time since 1935, and still creates custom-designed watches today Article Natalie Nirk Photography Provided

who is now president of Selco and third-generation family member in charge. “Our 40-plus jewelry stores were then publicly traded and sold to Zales in 1980.” With this transaction Larry purchased the watch division. As distributors found the company, Selco went on to manufacture dials primarily as promotional products. More recently Selco has branched out to producing watches for well-known sports teams and many other well-known nationwide companies.

“We’re really excited right now to be making the Pro Bowl watches,” says Ross Fraser, Selco’s national sales manager.” During a tour of their facilities I saw custom watches for the popular TV show, The Walking Dead, getting the movement put in them by hand. In & Out Burgers is another noteable company they’ve made promotional timepieces for. Their client list goes on and on; the options are really endless.

Alongside many other nationally recognized companies, Selco is proud to contribute to Folds of Honor, a local charity that helps families of fallen or disabled veterans (FoldsofHonor.org). Proceeds of Folds of Honor watches sold go to this organization, and Selco gives watches to the staff and to soldiers’ family members who caddy during the Patriot Cup fundraiser each year.

Selco’s facilities are impressive with about half a dozen different departments including art, screenprinting, dial fabrication, imprinting, and assembly with about 35 employees busily working throughout. A 250-ton press is used to force heavy brass discs down into a die

“There are so many unique ways to customize a watch, and there’s an intrinsic value very few other products have. People will wear a watch because it moves them,” Mark adds. “We’re the one company that’s stayed focused on time.”

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Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2014

to give the impression for the dials. There’s also a paint booth as well as a plating and cleaning room where everything is all finished up and polished by hand.

“We can decorate the face already on a watch as well as manufacture a new face,” says Mark. As the only member of the American Watch Association, they customize and manufacture dials in the U.S. and Canada for big names like Fossil, Seiko, Bulova, Movado and Raymond Weill, to name a few. They have their own lines that they enjoy designing as well.

Fraser feels these promotional watches remain at the forefront of the promotional products industry not just because of the outstanding quality of their products, but also due to the fact that people still get sentimentally attached to their watches. He’s shown their products at trade shows all over the country and they continue to be a huge hit.

“Some will argue that not as many people today wear watches since everyone now has a cell phone to tell time with, but watches are still a very important accessory to have,” he says. “And no one throws away time.” Accessorizing with watches seemed to really become popular in the late ‘80s, and today it’s not uncommon for many of us to have more than one watch in order to fit any occasion. It’s the ultimate utilitarian fashion accessory that both males and females can enjoy wearing.

“For the 75-plus years we’ve been in business, it’s been a great journey,” Larry reflects.

With demand growing for their customized products in a retail capacity, it’s now going to be possible for consumers to just hop on their website to order a custom designed piece.

Picture your precious little ones’ handprints

Mark Abels, president of Selco and third-generation family member

along with their names imprinted onto a gorgeous mother-of-pearl face. Selco can do this, and has several other beautiful designs to choose from for all tastes. It naturally does take some extra time for something like this to be made, but a rendering of the watch or a certificate can be wrapped up and given as a gift while it’s in production. Even the boxes that finished watches come with are customized and lovely keepsakes.

“There are so many unique ways to customize a watch, and there’s an intrinsic value very few other products have. People will wear a watch because it moves them,” Mark adds. “We’re the one company that’s stayed focused on time.”

For more information about Selco visit SelcoTime.com.

Natalie Nirk, is our Home & Fashion Editor and also a registered interior designer with the Oklahoma Board of Architects. NatalieNirkInteriors.com

It’s About Time Wrap up a unique custom-designed watch for your loved one this year. Shop Selco’s custom watches at UrCustomWatch.com.

Selco originated custom logo watches and will work with you to personalize a watchface, too.

December 2014 | Tulsa Lifestyle

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Style Wise

Great Gift Ideas Our Home & Fashion Editor, Natalie Nirk, shares local finds around town that have caught her eye

Jewel-studded reindeer, Leslie Elliott Interior Design; $101

Sequin holiday top, Black Sheep Boutique; $50 Above: Fredericks & Mae handmade in U.S.A. dart set, S. R. Hughes on Brookside; $404 Right: Gianni Bini suede boots w/leather accents, Dillard’s Promenade; $189.99

Ace & Jig Dockside top, $190; NSF Francis Harlan shirt, $245; necklace by local designer GemTherapy, $175; all at Rope

Lucky Brand suede “Everalda” bootie, Dillard’s Promenade; $139.99 16

Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2014

“Front Page” made in Italy magazine rack, S.R. Hughes; $299

Left: Janai brown fur vest, Black Sheep Boutique; $78 Right: Alexis Oay short flared cage dress, Rope on Cherry Street; $583 Below: OK baseball tee, Black Sheep Boutique; $52

This season is about keeping with a lot of the old classics and timeless colors like camel, black, red and white… but adding that new splash of detail or sparkle.

Above: Owl necklace handmade in France, Rope; $440 Left: Iro Terry jean, Rope on Cherry Street; $240 ‘Happy Holidays’ snowman, Leslie Elliott Interior Design; $68

Below: Gianni Bini Vanessah animal print ankle-cuff heel, Dillard’s Promenade; $89.99

Steve Madden “Famme” gladiator heels, Dillard’s Promenade; $129.99

December 2014 | Tulsa Lifestyle

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Healthy Lifestyle

Just Breathe Make your holidays more enjoyable and less stressful through functional breathing Article Ali and Chris Barnes, DC

T

he holiday season--the “most wonderful time of the year”-can also be the most stressful. As to-do lists grow along with guest lists, activities, and responsibilities, we are often too busy to take care of ourselves. But what if easing your anxiety and increasing your energy were just a few breaths away?

Breathing is the most important physiological function from the moment you’re born. Breathing connects all parts of movement, but most of us use shallow, disconnected mouth and chest breathing patterns that are dysfunctional and inefficient. No function in the body can be efficient if breathing is not. Conversely, optimal breathing has so many benefits: restores alignment of the spine, decreases overuse of neck and shoulder muscles, decreases global muscle tightness, improves oxygenation of the body which decreases pain and sensitivity, improves body awareness, improves sense of well-being, activates the rest and digestive systems and regulates the body’s fight or flight systems.

You’re already breathing, so why not radically improve your health by breathing better?

Breathing 101

Most people know that cells need oxygen (O2), but why? Your cells use O2 (along with other fuel) to create energy to function.

When there is inadequate O2, the mechanics of the cell “back up,” resulting in lactic acid. Cells fatigue under inadequate energy and cannot function or heal from wear and tear. What does this look like? Hitting the wall, getting injured, experiencing brain fog, becoming irrationally emotional, etc.

You know that breathing supplies your body with oxygen, but you most likely don’t know that while inhalation (breathing in) supplies the lungs and blood with O2, exhalation (breathing out) delivers the O2 to all your cells, where you need it. Slow, silent, rhythmic breathing lowers heart rate: the longer the exhalation, the farther the O2 is carried to all the cells in your extremities (the most important extremity being your brain). When cells receive O2, they release CO2 (and other products of cellular function) back into the blood, launching a cycle of oxygenation and restoration throughout your body.

Most people mistakenly assume that CO2 is bad. In fact, you only exhale about 15% of the CO2 that makes it back to your lungs because your body needs this valuable chemical for homeostasis.

The more you optimally breathe, the more ideal your cellular physiology, which enhances all bodily functions.

On the contrary, when you overbreathe (inhaling longer than exhaling) the opposite occurs (called “hypocapnia,” or low CO2).

Your blood retains O2, less O2 passes into cells, pH becomes suboptimal, blood vessels constrict. Overbreathing suffocates your cells because the O2 remains in your blood. When you starve your 18

Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2014

brain of O2, it panics, stimulating “fight-or-flight” response, and possibly starting a cycle of numerous bodily dysfunctions.

Optimal Breathing: “Shut your mouth and save your life.”

- George Catlin

Most simply, functional breathing is nasal breathing (both in and out), employing the diaphragm (belly), and exhaling approximately twice the length of the inhalation.

If a person is unable to train his/her own breathing patterns in this manner, techniques like the Restorative Breathing MethodTM

by Lois Laynee Ph.D., and reflex therapy (Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization) may be helpful. Silent yoga and meditative breathing techniques can be excellent for relaxation but if this type of breathing is isolated to these activities, it cannot permanently change your body’s physiology. The Restorative Breathing Method organizes the autonomic nervous system (ANS) of the brain so that effortless nasal breathing becomes the default-breathing pattern, even when you’re not thinking about it. By stimulating autonomic breathing, your diaphragm will begin firing on all cylinders, creating incredible effortless core strength and stability while decreasing tension in the back, neck, and shoulder muscles.

One aspect of the Restorative Breathing Method is known as L.O.I.S. Breathing. Take 60 seconds to try a simple version of L.O.I.S. Breathing (see sidebar). Seriously, do it. It’s more important than reading the rest of this article.

Now that your brain is oxygenated, here are some additional benefits of what you just did: placing the tongue against the roof continued >

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Healthy Lifestyle

(continued)

of the mouth while maintaining nasal-only breathing relaxes the jaw and stimulates the release of nitric oxide, a chemical that dilates every tube in your body. The more silently you breathe, the more open and efficient your airway is.

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DECEMBER

918-286-3522

3:

Tulsa Festival Ringers

11-23: A Christmas Carol

3-31:

Heathyr Chenoweth

12-21: The Nutcracker

6:

Brown Bag It, PAC Trust Art Exhibit, PAC Gallery

Tulsa Ballet

Simply Romantic Holiday Tulsa Symphony

JANUARY 6-11:

American Theatre Company

Once

18:

Beverly Wissen

24:

Rastrelli Cello Quartet

8-18: August: Osage County

29:

Shaping Sound

30:

David Gonzalez’s Sleeping Beauty

Celebrity Attractions

6-30:

Art Exhibit, PAC Gallery Theatre Pops

10-11: The Giver

Tulsa Youth Opera

16:

Fareed Zakaria

17:

Simply Classical

Matuto

Tulsa Children’s Museum Choregus Productions

PAC Trust

Ali Barnes is certified in Laynee Restorative Breathing MethodTM and teaches breathing exercises at her husband Chris’ clinic, Tensegrity Chiropractic. A former Oklahoma State golfer and high school English teacher and coach, she also loves running trails, reading classics, thinking compulsively, and cooking healthfully.

This article is adapted from an original work by Chris Barnes DC, originally published as “Breathe to Win” in Oklahoma Sports And Fitness Magazine, May/June 2014

Symptoms of Dysfunctional Breathing These are signs you may not be breathing your best: Stress/anxiety Irritability Depression Fatigue Poor sleep Jaw clenching High blood pressure Headaches/migraines Neck and back pain Muscle tension Digestive problems Dizziness Decreased athletic performance L.O.I.S. Breathing The more you can breathe this way throughout the day, the more you are not only oxygenating your body immediately, but also training it to sleep better, perform better and feel better!

Tulsa Town Hall

Tulsa Symphony

24: Mannheim Steamroller OR TULSAPAC.COM TICKETS: 918-596-7111 Christmas

20

What would your life be like with less stress, anxiety, fear, depression, pain, _____? Better breathing may be the missing link for improving countless aspects of your life, only some of which were mentioned in this article. The possibilities are endless when your body has the fuel it needs to rid itself of the waste it doesn’t!

Breathing could be the answer that gets you through this holiday season and starts the best year of your life.

Celebrity Attractions

Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2014

Lips are gently together O-shaped within the mouth (teeth apart and tongue on roof of mouth) Inhale and exhale only through the nose Silent and slow breathing (in for 3 seconds, out for 5 seconds) When practicing, keep eyes level with the horizon, keep neck and shoulders at rest without strain and breathe rhythmically.

will you help

FILL THE PLATE? You can help fill the plates of so many people in our community this holiday season. Because of your generosity, families can have plenty of food on the table, seniors will have stocked pantries and children can enjoy healthy snacks.

Your donation to the Community Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma could go twice as far in December, thanks to the generosity of the George Kaiser Family Foundation.

To learn more or to make a donation, visit okfoodbank.org.

Fighting Hunger, Feeding Hope

Community FOOD BANK of Eastern Oklahoma

December 2014 | Tulsa Lifestyle

21

Sold Properties

Recently SOLD Tulsa Properties neighborhood

sales price

bdrms

f/h bath garage cap. year built

sq. ft.

lot sq. ft.

Signal Hill II

$520,000

4

3/2

3

2001

4,228

15,172

Cedar Haven

$525,000

4

3/0

3

2013

2,753

8,820

Lexington

$530,000

4

3/2

3

1996

4,518

16,470

Sunset Terrace

$540,000

3

2/1

2

1992

2,855

6,413

Sunset Terrace

$570,000

4

2/2

2

1930

3,242

9,300

Crown Pointe

$579,000

4

5/0

3

1987

5,517

25,798

Forest Park South II

$582,500

4

3/1

3

1989

4,960

25,657

Forest Park South III

$580,000

4

4/1

3

1990

4,683

18,126

Stonebraker Heights

$584,000

3

3/0

2

1999

3,094

6,500

Bryan-Mawr

$590,000

4

3/1

2

2013

3,741

11,500

Oak Forest Hill resub

$600,000

3

2/1

2

1993

3,588

30,569

Terwilleger Heights

$630,000

3

2/1

2

1928

3,806

9,990

Vogel Heights

$638,510

4

2/1

3

2014

4,000

8,680

Ranch Acres

$650,000

4

2/1

2

1955

3,543

18,408

Wind River

$671,000

5

4/1

3

2005

5,416

13,454

Berwick on Cedar Ridge

$676,000

4

4/1

3

2014

4,250

11,163

Terwilleger Heights

$700,000

4

3/2

2

1928

5,023

8,060

Timbercrest

$710,000

4

3/1

4

1989

5,345

114,318

Wellington South

$769,000

4

3/2

3

1994

6,092

21,629

Crown Pointe

$780,000

4

5/1

3

1987

5,841

27,480

Devonshire at Graystone

$792,000

5

4/3

4

2002

6,314

18,135

Tulsa Co Unplatted

$1,100,000

4

3/1

2

1922

4,488

48,787

The Reserve at Stonebrooke

$1,300,000

6

4/1

3

2013

*

*

*Information not disclosed. Source: Tulsa NORES MLS. 10/1/14 - 10/31/14

“Call me for a more comprehensive analysis of your neighborhood!�

Brian Frere

918.298.6900 | bfrere@cox.net December 2014 | Tulsa Lifestyle

23

Lifestyle Calendar

December

ALL MONTH WINTERFEST DOWNTOWN

Downtown Tulsa is transformed into a festive wonderland during Winterfest, an annual holiday tradition. Bring friends and family together for holiday festivities and share the joyful spirit of the season. Experience the thrill of outdoor ice skating, see Oklahoma’s tallest outdoor Christmas tree, take a ride in a horse-drawn carriage, listen to live entertainment and browse beautiful holiday light displays. Through January 19, 2015. TulsaWinterFest.com

Follow Ebenezer Scrooge in his journey from Christmas curmudgeon to holiday celebrant as told through delightful song and dance in a world of Victorian costumes and settings in the John H. Williams Theatre. TulsaPAC.com

THROUGH DECEMBER 14 PHILBROOK FESTIVAL OF TREES PHILBROOK MUSEUM

Tulsa’s beloved holiday tradition returns for its 30th season. Celebrate the holidays at Philbrook by visiting the Festival of Trees. Proceeds benefit Philbrook educational programs and Museum operations. Philbrook.org/Festival

DECEMBER 11-14, 16-20, 22, 23

DECEMBER 31

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

NOON YEAR’S EVE PARTY

TULSA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

TULSA CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

Experience this original adaptation of Dickens’ classic tale, now in its third decade.

At Discovery Lab, families can celebrate the New Year (without staying up past

BRING THE INDOORS

outside.

24

Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2014

bedtime!) with a family-friendly party from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Kids can wear their New Year’s finest and enjoy music, entertainment, and tons of science fun. Last year’s event sold out, so mark your calendars now.

TulsaChildrensMuseum.org

JANUARY 1 Polar Bear Plunge River Parks West

Bold the cold and take a polar plunge on New Year’s Day this year. Jump in to the clean, cold water of three swimming pools (not the Arkansas river) after the 2-mile run. Race gun goes off at 1 p.m. Finishers shirts for first 600 registrants. Check out the website for more details. Tatur.org/PolarPlunge.html

918.695.1653

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Business Directory Animals & Animal Care

Education

Animal Emergency Center (918) 665-0508 aec-tulsa.com Tulsa Aquarium Service (918) 282-0158 Tulsaaquariumservice.com

Art & Photography Foshay Photographers (918) 384-9422 foshayphotographers.com

Automotive Sinclair Dino Lube (918) 806-8656 sinclairdinolube.com

Charities & Fundraisers

Community Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma (918) 585-2800 okfoodbank.org

Cascia Hall School (918) 746-2604 casciahall.org

Entertainment & Recreation

Tulsa Performing Arts Center (918) 596-7122 tulsapac.com

Financial Services & Planning

Tom’s Outdoor Living (918) 695-1653 tomsoutdoorliving.com

Home Design & Furnishings Knotty Rug (913) 677-1877 knottyrug.com

Karimian & Associates (918) 388-2003 karimianadvisors.com

Luxe Furniture & Design (918) 459-8950 luxetulsa.com

Privatised Banking, LLC (918) 688-7906 PrivatisedBanking.com

Midtown Market (918) 607-4817 midtownmarkettulsa.com

Home Builders & Remodelers

Natalie Nirk Interior Design (918) 637-1335 natalienirkinteriors.com

Cobblestone Homes, Inc. (918) 640-7252 cobblestonehomesok.com

The Parent Child Center of Tulsa NichTech Roofing (918) 599-7999 (918) 283-2001 parentchildcenter.org nichtechroofsystems.com

The Dolphin Fine Linens (918) 743-6634 TheDolphinFineLinens.com

Medical Clinics & Facilities

Hillcrest Healthcare Systems (918) 579-5167 hillcrest.com

Property & Real Estate Brian Frere Home Team (918) 497-4420 brianfrere.com

Restaurants, Food & Beverage Hebert’s Specialty Meats (918) 298-8400 hebertsmeats.com The Hamlet (918) 495-1466 hamlethams.com

Senior Living & Services First Call(Tulsa) (918) 665-1011 my-firstcall.com

Saint Simeons Assisted Living (918) 794-1945 saintsimeons.org

CHRISTMAS HAM

The story of your life is often told by Photographs.

Check out the amazing new patio & bar at 91st & Sheridan

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Family, friends and special moments fill the pages of that story. Remember these cherished moments with the fine art of photography. Schedule your session today!

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FoshayPhotographers.com December 2014 | Tulsa Lifestyle

25

Parting Thoughts

Family Words Anne Potter Russ

W

ith a family the size of a small compact car, I often use the term “family” to describe my friends. My lineage is a long thin vine, rather than a large leafy tree, due to circumstances and odds that would win the lottery, if played. My mom was an only child. My dad was an only. Both of my paternal grandparents were only children. My husband is an only child. And, of course, I round out the roulette wheel as an only. Norbert and I had two kids so fast, it made the four grandparents’ heads spin.

As soon as our children could talk and watch Mr. Rogers, they wanted to know where all the cousins were. “Is this a cousin?” they’d ask as the babysitter walked in the door. I had learned from my own childhood that “aunts” and “uncles” could be created; so, as an adult, I figured I must be able to conjure up some cousins for my kids. It wasn’t as easy as I’d thought. As I contemplated my friends in terms of being family members, it occurred to me that they had plenty of relatives, and might not be so thrilled to have to take on mine as a hobby.

But finally, after reaching my half-century mark, I have come to realize that many folks in many places have reasons to create extended families. We are only a drastic case due to our very small numbers – there are just four of us in total, that is until we get to the branch of third cousins twice removed, whatever that means. We could bulk up the numbers with the multiple-removed people, but we don’t really

26

Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2014

know them well. Who we do know and want to spend time with are the friends now designated as family.

Every Christmas night when I was growing up, we had an open house for anyone who needed someplace to go on a dark holiday night.

My parents were inviting their “family” into our home for a holiday. (At the time, I thought it was just a ploy to delay my union with my newly opened gifts!) It was always a wonderful experience where people literally came in out of the cold to celebrate the season and the fellowship.

Thanks to some wonderful friends, of multiple generations, we have recently spent some very rewarding time with our “family.” Our inclusion in a rehearsal dinner, wedding, and surrounding festivities; our invitation from a dear friend to celebrate her mother’s birthday; and our crazy holidays spent with anyone who will have us, all add up to family.

Lest you think I’m getting carried away anticipating the holidays this year, it does translate to our daily lives. As you read this magazine, think about the families who are being helped, often by people they’ve never met in soup kitchens and food pantries. Think about the families to whom you’ve become attached through work, play or philanthropy. It’s powerful stuff.

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