We are thrilled to announce the launch of E3 Risk Management as a strategic complement to E3 Bookkeeping. Through E3 Risk Management, we are dedicated to helping you manage all of your commercial property and casualty insurance needs.
Over the past year, we have been diligently developing E3 Risk Management to provide you with comprehensive and tailored insurance solutions. Our team is committed to understanding and working with your unique requirements toward protecting your valuable assets and the business you have worked so hard to build.
With E3 Risk Management, you can expect:
• Expert guidance in assessing your insurance needs
• Access to a wide range of insurance carriers and policies
• The ability to provide coverage in all 50 states
• Competitive pricing and customized coverage options
• Efficient claims handling and support
• Digital access to certificates and other documents you may need
• Ongoing communication with and access to your broker
We have enjoyed supporting our clients over the past 12 years. We now also look forward to serving your commercial property and casualty insurance needs through E3 Risk Management.
Listening Carefully to your Story
Incorporating Evidence Based, Integrative and Functional
Taking Time to Help Set and Achieve Individual Health Goals
LIFESTYLE LETTER
Giving Issue
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Chelsey Juarez | chelsey.juarez@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Angela Broockerd, Linda Ditch
The holidays are here and as the spirit of the season is among us, we often try to replicate what made the season feel so magical to us in our youth. The traditions we set for our own families often mirror some of what we experienced as a child whether it is the smells, the sounds, the lights, the holiday activities, or a combination of it all that reflects that best. This month, we wanted to highlight the magic of the season and what our city has to offer that helps spread holiday cheer. We wanted to share what our area has to offer this holiday season for entertainment and ways to give back. While this season can be beautiful for some, it can be painful and lonely for others, especially those who have recently lost a loved one. In the true spirit of the season, let’s take care of those in our community who need assistance or who are alone. My hope for you this season is that you feel love and peace and that we all remember to take care of each other extending grace, empathy, and love. Happy Holidays!
CHELSEY JUAREZ, PUBLISHER
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Janie Jones
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
HOLIDAY Magic IN MUSKOGEE
ARTICLE BY LINDA DITCH
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY CASTLE OF MUSKOGEE
ENJOY TWINKLING LIGHTS AND FAMILY FUN, PLUS A TASTY TREAT (OR TWO!)
Once again, the center of the holiday season is The Castle of Muskogee. Take a leisurely drive through the enchanting Castleton Village light display, which is free for all guests. For a unique experience, see the lights from an old-fashioned hayride or aboard the festive Castle Train, both of which promise unforgettable views.
Kids will love riding cute holiday ponies or perhaps the more exotic camel. Do you prefer to relax and soak in the festive atmosphere? Grab a bag of Kettle Corn and unwind by one of the cozy firepits or explore the charming shops in the village.
The Castle of Muskogee also invites families to immerse themselves in festive fun within the Great Hall this holiday season! Visitors can participate in crafting ornaments at Santa's Workshop and experience the joy of pet ownership with "Stuff it Up – Plush Adoptions." And don't forget to explore
“THE celebration INCLUDES A DRIVETHROUGH DISPLAY OF
the DETAILS
• Drive-through Lights: The Castle drive-through is complimentary, however donations are appreciated. Honor Heights is free on Mondays and Tuesdays and $10 per vehicle Wednesday through Sunday. Both drive-through events are open nightly from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve, 5:30 pm to 10:00 pm.
• Tractor-drawn Hayrides: Departs every half hour from The Castle parking lot. The cost is $5.00 per person, children under one are free. Available Friday, Saturday and Sunday, weather permitting.
• Castle Train: Enjoy the lights with a tour from the conductor himself! $10 per passenger. Kids under 1 are free. Available weekends from Thanksgiving to New Year’s, weather permitting.
• Pony and Camel Rides: Ponies are $10 per child. Camel $10 per person. Available Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, weather permitting. • The Great Hall: Open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from November 29th through December 8th, and then nightly December 13th - 31st.
The Christmas Shoppe, where you'll find handmade creations perfect for everyone on your holiday gift list, along with unique keepsakes and beautiful home holiday displays. Then, finish the visit at Rudolph's Cafe, where you can enjoy a light supper, snacks, treats, and a delicious hot chocolate!
In addition to the magical holiday activities, guests can embark on a quirky adventure through the Royal Catacombs and Torture Chamber Museum. This not-so-traditional tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the castle's
unique history, making it the perfect option for those who love holiday cheer combined with a hint of intrigue.
And don't forget the Garden of Lights in nearby Honor Heights Park. The celebration includes a drive-through display of over a million shimmering lights throughout the park. Christmas lights are placed on trees, bushes and structures throughout to enhance the natural beauty of the gardens, waterfalls and ponds.
To learn more, check out okcastle.com for a detailed schedule of each night's activities.
Making Spirits
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.org
that’s a WRAP
DIY Gift Wrapping That Stands Out During The Season
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
‘TIS
‘Tis the season to get crafty, clever or characterized! Well-wrapped holiday packages create immediate enthusiasm and somehow seem to make gifts more meaningful. Whether going for shiny, vintage, colorful, rustic, playful or eco-friendly impressions, the following are some Do-ItYourself gift-wrapping ideas to make the wrapping process even more satisfying. Simply applying jute twine to gifts provides a ‘less is more’ vibe.
ADD NATURAL TOUCHES TO CRAFT PAPER:
For gifts with a rustic, organic feel, use seasonal accents, such as sprigs, pine cones and cinnamon sticks, tied up with twine, encircling recycled paper for the wrapping.
FIRST INITIAL DECORATION:
In lieu of a gift tag, attach an oversized paper mâché letter of the recipient’s first initial to the top of the box. The letter then can serve as customized décor, too.
POLKA DOTS:
Wrap gifts in plain craft paper and then cut out big, multicolored polka dots to glue down. It’s hard not to smile at big, bright dots.
CARDBOARD BOX SNOWPERSON:
Wrap three or four boxes in white paper, with different gifts inside, and then stack them. Tape the boxes together, tapering to the top. Glue buttons on the bottom ones, create a snowperson’s face on the top one, with carrot nose cut out of orange paper.
the SEASON
Attach a real hat, if desired. Tie wider, festive bow around the snowperson’s ‘neck.’ Add a real corncob pipe for a bonus finishing touch, if preferred.
MINI TREE GIFT WRAPPING:
Pine needles and small tips of real tree branches make quick and easy mini Christmas trees that can be glued onto Christmas gifts. They will smell nice, too.
BOOK PAGE WRAPPING PAPER:
Repurpose old book pages by cutting out shapes of dreidels, snowflakes, ornaments, candles or reindeer to paste on gifts.
DIY STAMP WRAPPING PAPER:
Wrap gifts in solid colors of paper. Secure ink stamps and an ink pad in a themed color(s), and stamp the paper as much or as little as desired.
UNBOXED:
Apply other types of containers, rather than boxes or bags, for gift wrapping; examples: canisters, pillow cases, baskets, fabric scraps, maps, glass containers, towels, blankets, scarves, Bento bags (also called triangle bags or origami bags).
HOLIDAY SPENDING Made Smart
HOW TO MAKE “THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR” GENTLER ON YOUR WALLET
ARTICLE BY ALISON STANTON
The holiday season can be a fun time filled with family get-togethers, festive decorations, cookie baking and other merry moments.
It can also be a spendy time of year, especially when it comes to gift-giving.
If you are hoping to make this holiday season more budget-friendly than in years past, the following tips may help:
TIP 1:
HAVE AN HONEST TALK WITH YOUR KIDS
Your kids’ wish lists might be longer than the Declaration of Independence, but take heed. According to Whyzz, research has found that what kids really want for the holidays are enjoyable family traditions, relaxing days with people who love them, and a few gifts.
Interestingly, research also shows that kids have pretty reasonable expectations on how many gifts they will receive, as well as how much money will be spent on them.
With this in mind, before you start your holiday shopping, Whyzz advises sitting down with your kids and letting them know how much you have to spend on gifts this year. Be upfront about what they can expect, and encourage each child to suggest one larger gift or perhaps a few smaller ones that will fit into your budget.
TIP 2:
FIND CREATIVE WAYS TO TRIM THE HOLIDAY BUDGET
Buying presents for lots of friends and family members can really add up. To trim back your spending, Nerd Wallet suggests that people draw names to help lower the number of gifts you’ll purchase, and/or proposing a budget-friendly price limit for each person.
Other ways to pare back your holiday spending include asking family to come visit this season, rather than you booking costly airline trips and paying for hotels; or choosing just one seasonal play, performance, carnival or other event to attend, rather than several.
You can also challenge your kids to come up with ideas for inexpensive and fun things to do as a family. You might
find that your child’s suggestion of filling travel mugs with cocoa and heading out in the car to admire the many amazing holiday displays is a fun and memorable experience.
TIP 3:
ENCOURAGE GIFT RECIPIENTS TO TELL YOU WHAT THEY TRULY WANT OR NEED
Another way to make your holiday spending smarter than ever this year is to purchase gifts that your loved ones truly need. At times, this might involve thinking outside of the gift box a bit, and that’s okay.
Ask each person on your list for ideas, and let them know it’s okay if it’s not a “traditional” gift. For instance, maybe your aunt would love it if you paid for her Netflix subscription for a couple of months, your college-aged nephew could really use a gift card to Amazon or Target, and your grandpa would really be thrilled if you took him out to lunch once the busy holidays are over.
TIP 4:
TRY TO AVOID IMPULSE SPENDING ON “DEALS”
Yes, Black Friday typically features amazing deals on a wide selection of items. But unless you are really sure that one of your gift recipients wants that mega-marked-down item, try to resist succumbing to the temptation of these sales. Buying something just because it’s a terrific price is a sure way to bust that newly-trimmed down budget, and you might end up with gifts that were a great price, but not really useful to anyone on your list.
Here’s to a jolly holiday season filled with special moments, and smart spending!
As a real estate agent serving the greater Tulsa community for over 15 years, Amy is highly engaged and hands-on in her approach. Known for her knowledge of the market, negotiating skills and unmatched service to clients, she strives to exceed expectations and provide exceptional results.
Bringing 30+ years executive experience in the real estate, banking & wealth management industries, Amy's systematic & comprehensive approach to real estate has earned the respect of clients and colleagues alike, complimented by her shrewd negotiating skills, eye for detail, personal touch & utmost professionalism.
With a keen eye for interior design and always a student of the latest trends, Amy's clients have benefitted from her staging and furnishing expertise when preparing homes to go to market.
Experience stands as a very important factor when buying a home and marketing your home to sell. As a seasoned agent, fully immersed in the Tulsa real estate industry, Amy brings to the table a multifaceted skill set that includes not only a thorough understanding of market dynamics but also the art of negotiation resulting in an exceptional real estate experience.
Cavallin
HOLIDAY APPETIZERS
SURE TO BE CROWD PLEASERS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON, INDULGE IN THESE DELICIOUS, STRESS-FREE RECIPES simple, yet fancy,
ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATALIE FINAZZO FOX
Pear & Brie Cheese
Salad Skewers
INGREDIENTS
• 2 pears (or substitute green apple)
• 8 ounces of brie cheese
• 2 cups baby arugula
• 1/4 cup raw walnuts, chopped
• Balsamic glaze
INSTRUCTIONS
• Cut pear and brie into 1/2-inch cubes. Leaving the rind makes skewers less sticky to handle!
• Take (4-inch) skewer, add pear, arugula, and cheese.
• Gently press chopped walnuts onto brie cheese to stick.
• Drizzle balsamic glaze overtop.
Cranberry & Pecan Cheese Crostini
INGREDIENTS
• 1 (8 oz.) container light cream cheese spread
• ½ cup chopped cranberries
• 1 Tbsp. grated orange peel
• ½ cup coarsely chopped pecans, toasted
• Rosemary and olive oil crostinis
INSTRUCTIONS
• Top crostinis with a dollop of cream cheese.
• Add cranberries and pecans.
• Garnish with grated orange peel.
CRAFTING CHEER: DIY WINTER CRAFTS
ARTICLE BY ERICA BIBB | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
ORNAMENT CLUSTERS
SUPPLIES
• 22 gauge wire
• Ornaments of at least 3 varying shades and sizes
• Wire snips
STEP 1
Cut desired length of wire for a cluster, about 24”
STEP 2
Add an ornament about 4” from one end of the wire and twist the wire around the top of the ornament to provide a base for your cluster. Twist about 5 times. You should still have about 4” of wire at the end; you will need it to tie onto your garland, tree, or wreath.
STEP 3
Continue adding ornaments to the wire, alternating sizes and colors until you have 4-6” of wire remaining.
STEP 4
Twist the remaining wire around the top of your final ornament 5 times to secure all of your ornaments in place. Making sure to leave at least 4” of wire in place at the end in order to tie onto garland, tree, or wreath.
STEP 5
Use the ends of the wire to attach to your holiday item of choice!!
Pro tip: Keep your clusters to the 24” length to keep from getting too heavy and/or having ornaments pop off. Ornaments will pop off at times, but they will still look gorgeous and you can always glue the ornament back onto to the top. Simple, gorgeous, and impactful!
DIY WINTER WREATH
SUPPLIES
• pruning scissors
• grapevine wreath form
• 22 gauge wire
• wire snips
• hot glue gun
• hot glue
• 3 types of fresh cut greens (you can also use artificial and have a wreath that will last you year after year!)
• fresh eucalyptus
• pinecones
• bells or ornaments
• ribbon
STEP 1
Trim greens removing any bald spots and extra length. Lengths of greens should vary between 5-10”.
STEP 2
Create clusters with the greens and eucalyptus, using all 3 of the greens. Create the cluster and then wrap the cluster with the 22 gauge wire onto the grapevine wreath form (starting at the top of your wreath), making sure that the wire is tight. Wrap 5-7 times to ensure everything will stay in place. Do not cut the wire. Set to the side to use for the next cluster.
STEP 3
Continue adding fresh green clusters going down your wreath and slightly alternating the angle the greens are pointing. Finish your final cluster and give yourself 3-4” of additional wire to twist close at the back of the wreath to finish and secure.
SIMPLE GORGEOUS IMPACTFUL
STEP 4
Place ribbon at the end of the clusters to hide any ribbon. We tied a knot with the ribbon around the wreath and then wrapped several times around the wreath.
STEP 5
Tie on ornaments, bells, or pinecones to hang from the wreath. This is optional, you may just want to add a pretty bow or even keep it as is at this point! When tying on the extra baubles, remember to cut your ribbon at varying lengths, so the bells or ornaments can hang at different levels. Tie the 3 ribbons together and then tie as one onto your wreath.
STEP 6
Add desired number of pinecones and put in place with hot glue. You can wire on the pinecones, but I like the control of placement is easier with the hot glue method.
Pro tip: keep taking a step back as you construct your wreath and keep in mind that sometimes less is more. Don’t be afraid to make edits and trust your eye!
For more inspiration visit www.porchandpatioco.com
CONFECTION
Elevate your holiday hot chocolate with a charcuterie experience
As winter settles in and the air chills, there’s nothing more comforting than a steaming cup of hot chocolate. Take it up a notch and indulge in a hot cocoa charcuterie board. Picture a delightful spread of various hot chocolate flavors, mix-ins, and toppings, inviting you to create a personalized, delicious mug of joy.
OLD-FASHIONED HOT COCOA
Ingredients
• ¼ cup 60% cacao chocolate morsels
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa
• 1/3 cup white granulated sugar
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups half and half
• 1 pinch salt
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Directions
Heat all ingredients (except vanilla extract) in a 2-quart saucepan over medium-low heat until almost boiling. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
CREATING THE PERFECT HOT COCOA CHARCUTERIE BOARD
Gone are the days of selecting only between marshmallows and whipped cream as toppings. With a hot cocoa charcuterie board, you can delve into a world of flavors, textures and spices that will make each sip an adventure.
Begin by selecting a variety of flavors and mix-ins, such as mini marshmallows, salted caramels, white chocolate morsels and peppermints. Pair your hot cocoa with delectable treats like cookies, gum drops, crème-filled wafer rolls or chocolate-covered espresso beans. Consider adding biscotti, chocolate-dipped spoons or chocolate-coated pretzels as well as whipped toppings and an assortment of sprinkles.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MINDY WESTER
NOVEMBER 27TH - JANUARY 1ST
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
Rhema Christmas Lights Extravaganza
Broken Arrow | 5:30 PM
Visit the dazzling Rhema lights beginning on November 27, 2024 at 6 pm. through January 1, 2025.
DECEMBER 1ST
Roosevelt’s Gastropub
Roosevelt’s Gastropub | 5:00 PM
Enjoy a delicious meal surrounded by festive decorations, get there early during the holiday season, they do not take reservations.
DECEMBER 1ST
Welltown Brewing Igloos
Welltown Brewing | 12:00 PM
Enjoy a fun night out with friends in one of the eight igloos at Welltown Brewing and create some wonderful winter wonderland memories. For more information visit https://www.welltownbrewing.com/iglootown
Enjoy the holiday fun for the whole family at Festival Nights an indoor and outdoor holiday experience. Make sure you get tickets for the fun at https://philbrook.org/visit/fundraising/festival/
DECEMBER 6TH
Tulsa Arts District First Friday Art Crawl
Arts Parking Lot | 6:00 PM
Enjoy local art and shops at the first Friday Art Crawl. For more information visit https://thetulsaartsdistrict.org/first-friday-art-crawl/
DECEMBER 6TH - 7TH
The Nutcracker Festival
SageNet Center Upper Level at Expo Square | 10:00 AM
Family fun for all at The Nutcracker Festival. Visit the website for more information and tickets: https://www.nutcrackerfest.com/
