THE EDUCATION ISSUE
THE LANGUAGE OF LEARNING
PRIVATE SCHOOL GUIDE
COLLEGE GUIDE
February 2022
DIG IN! DESSERTS TO TEMPT US Ice Cream Turtle Pie from Bull in the Alley
THIS SEASON
Family David & Luke Bryant Farmer’s Insurance
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BE TRUE TO YOUR HEART. Schedule your heart screening today.
The Heart Hospital at Saint Francis offers a series of cardiovascular screenings at a reduced cost to help you identify potential risks for heart disease and other vascular conditions.
CARDIAC CALCIUM SCREENING – $99 THREE CARDIOVASCULAR SCREENINGS – $99 • Carotid disease • Abdominal aortic aneurysm • Peripheral arterial disease
SATURDAY APPOINTMENTS ARE AVAILABLE THROUGHOUT THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY.
6161 South Yale Avenue | Tulsa, Oklahoma I saintfrancis.com/heartscreening
For more details about this series of cardiovascular screenings visit saintfrancis.com/heartscreening. To schedule an appointment, please call 918-494-6900.
FIRST OKLAHOMA BANK PRESENTS
Leaders with Heart
LOYAL. LOVING. LEARNED. Leeland Alexander has cultivated a life of learning, leadership and love of family and God.
He values education and has worked in a university setting his entire adult life. Leeland began working for the University of Oklahoma in 1974 and today is the Associate Vice President for Community Advancement at OU’s Schusterman Center Campus in Tulsa. His resume of achievements is long, but that alone does not define Leeland. Rather, it is his lifelong commitment to helping others and his focus on family. Together he and his wife Diana have been married 55 years. They have four adult sons and “daughters-in-love,” 13 grandchildren and one “grandson in love.” “Diana and I both love giving of our time and financial resources to different organizations that provide, care, food and help for people who are down on their luck,” Leeland says. Several life events have shaped his outlook: participation in 4-H programs as a youth, his seven years in the U.S. Army Reserves, his church involvement, and worldwide travels, among others. His years of military service, for instance, instilled a deep appreciation for the American flag, his state and country.
During his years of starting and working in OU’s School of Community Medicine in Tulsa, Leeland traveled to hospitals in countries such as India, Nepal, and Africa to search for sites where the college’s residents could do rotations in third-world medicine. “It was fascinating to visit all of these different hospitals and see how medicine is delivered,” he says. “I really discovered that people in any country have the same desire and wishes for their children to be educated and to find employment and have good health care.” “Leeland has invested his life in exercising leadership to accomplish adaptive change in the many organizations in which he is involved. He has earned the praise of ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant,’” says Tom Bennett Jr., Chairman of the Board of First Oklahoma Bank.
Leeland is a graduate of Leadership Tulsa, the inaugural classes of Leadership Oklahoma, Leadership USA, and Leadership for the 21st Century at Harvard University. Currently, he serves on boards for the Founders of Doctors’ Hospital Inc., Tulsa Community College Foundation, Oklahoma State University Foundation Board of Governors, and First Oklahoma Bank. “The people who work for First Oklahoma Bank do an outstanding job of taking care of customers – everyone from the tellers to the lenders to the Board of Directors… Everybody is committed to providing the best services they can to our customers,” Leeland says.
Midtown: 4110 S. Rockford Avenue | South: 100 S. Riverfront Drive, Jenks
www.FirstOklahomaBank.com
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FEBRUARY 2022 | VOLUME 36 ISSUE 4
Cricket and Fig’s Toast Your Own S’mores
7 CITY DESK DVIS grows to meet community needs. Former Tulsan’s business gives back. Three Tulsans transform themselves.
51 TABLE TALK Three places for cheesesteaks. Rosé wine picks this Valentine’s Day.
26 THE LANGUAGE OF LEARNING
41 2022 COLLEGE GUIDE
Area teachers help students learn English. BY JOHN TRANCHINA
Details on central and eastern Oklahoma colleges and universities. BY ANNE BROCKMAN
28 2022 PRIVATE SCHOOL GUIDE
46 CARE TO SHARE
Tulsa’s private education options. BY STAFF 4
TulsaPeople FEBRUARY 2022
Desserts to tempt you and your dinner partner this season. BY NATALIE MIKLES
ON THE COVER: Ice Cream Turtle Pie from Bull in the Alley. Photo by Michelle Pollard.
59 LIFESTYLE Florists weigh in on favorite blooms. Therapists treat niche specialties. February reflections by Connie Cronley.
MICHELLE POLLARD; CITY DESK: COURTESY
Four foodie spots to celebrate Mardi Gras.
New symptoms? Check in on your heart health
If daily tasks or short walks are more difficult than they used to be, it might be time to talk with a specialist about your risk for heart disease, and if a heart screening is right for you. Heart care shouldn’t wait. Get heart care sooner to catch things before they could get worse. For in-person visits, know that we are maintaining strict precautions to keep you safe while in our care. To schedule a screening, call 918-205-7283 or visit ascension.org/StJohnHeart © Ascension 2022. All rights reserved.
FROM THE EDITOR
Hello, dear readers.
Volume XXXVI, Number 4 ©2022. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher, including created advertising in a proofed or printed stage. TulsaPeople Magazine is published monthly by
While you’re picking this magazine up in
While wrapping up this issue I dream of the
February, I’m sitting down to write this letter
special occasion I can call upon to finally sink my
the second week of January. Remember then? I
teeth into the desserts featured in our cover story
know it feels so long ago. We’ve been through a
on p. 46. Our cover showcases Bull in the Alley’s
lot these past few weeks. Christmas? It seems like
Ice Cream Turtle Pie, which has been on my
months ago.
radar and social media streams for months now.
Sometimes when writing these letters I feel
When fi rst describing it, Digital Editor Tim
like I’m speaking to my future self, analyzing and
Landes whipped out his phone to show a snap-
commenting on things that have yet come to pass.
shot of the sweet treat — his girlfriend hoisted
I’m working from home as the omicron surge
the dish to compare it to the size of her head. Yes,
pulsates through the city. Co-workers are home
the slice really is that big and impressive. It’s a
quarantining with COVID-19. Others are doing
dessert worthy of a celebration, and I hope we
their best to stay well while hitting deadlines
all have something to rejoice about soon. As the
from their kitchen table. I’m in the latter bunch
story says, dig in!
(as I knock on every piece of wood I can find).
A friend from high school recently emailed
While I hope office life returns to “normal”
me. Along with the usual cordial sentiments,
sometime soon, there are others appreciating this
she let me know that upon her return to Tulsa
step backward.
she has been using TulsaPeople as a tool to reac-
My dog, Biscuit, deeply appreciates me being
quaint herself with her hometown. Though this is
home so much again. She’s now able to bark at the
a sentiment we hear often, it’s always nice to be
black Labrador who walks our back fence with
reminded that the work we put in to make this
his owner every afternoon around 3 p.m. She’s
magazine what it is — your city magazine — is
been thoroughly entertained at the squirrel par-
enjoyed by those who read it.
ties happening in the backyard and on the porch.
I appreciate you, dear reader. TP
I don’t think she understands why she wasn’t
1603 South Boulder Avenue Tulsa, Oklahoma 74119-4407 P: 918-585-9924 F: 918-585-9926 PUBLISHER Jim Langdon PRESIDENT Juley Roffers VP COMMUNITY RELATIONS Susie Miller EDITOR SENIOR EDITOR DIGITAL EDITOR ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR
Anne Brockman Morgan Phillips Tim Landes Blayklee Freed
EDITORIAL CONSULTING Missy Kruse, The Write Company CREATIVE DIRECTOR ART DIRECTOR MANAGING PHOTOGRAPHER VIDEOGRAPHER
Madeline Crawford Georgia Brooks Michelle Pollard Greg Bollinger
ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES Andrea Canada Josh Kampf Rita Kirk CONTROLLER Mary McKisick DISTRIBUTION COORDINATOR Amanda Hall INTERNS Rachel Dupree Julianne Tran
MEMBER
TulsaPeople’s distribution is audited annually by
Langdon Publishing Company sets high standards to ensure forestry is practiced in an environmentally responsible, socially beneficial and economically viable manner. This issue of Tulsa People was printed on recycled fibers containing 20 percent post-consumer waste with inks containing a soy base blend. Our printer is a certified member of the Forestry Stewardship Council and the Sustainable Forestry Initiative, and additionally, meets or exceeds all federal Resource Conservation Recovery Act standards. When you are finished with this issue, please pass it on to a friend or recycle it. We can have a better world if we choose it together. Disregard any TulsaPeople subscription solicitation that is not directly mailed from the Langdon Publishing office at 1603 S. Boulder Ave. Contact Langdon Publishing directly if you are interested in subscribing or renewing your TulsaPeople subscription.
invited. February is a fickle month, as Connie Cronley reminds us on p. 74. February also is a time for planning, whether that be our next great adventure, our gardens, our future or our next meal. 6
TulsaPeople FEBRUARY 2022
Anne Brockman EDITOR
S AY N O T O H A T E
JOLESCH ENTERPRISES/BAPS — ARROW VISION
The Pride of Broken Arrow performs “The Edge of Eternity” at the 2021 Grand National Championships on Nov. 13 in Indianapolis.
BEST OF THE BEST
T
he Pride of Broken Arrow, the marching band of Broken Arrow High School, has won four national championships, but its most recent was its proudest win yet. With a score of 98.25, the highest in competition history, the Pride won the 2021 Bands of America Grand National Championships in November in Indianapolis under the direction of Darrin Davis with an intense performance called “The Edge of Eternity.” Like other award-winning marching bands in the area, the Pride is known for practicing 10-hour days in the summer and most evenings and weekends throughout the fall. TP FOR MORE ON THE BOA GRAND NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS, SEE P. 8.
TulsaPeople.com
7
NOTEBOOK BY MORGA N PHILLIP S
Table set for Cocina 66
PRIDE WINS BIG
The Pride of Broken Arrow won the 2021 Grand National Championships on Nov. 13 at Lucas Old Stadium in Indianapolis. Music for All’s Bands of America Grand National Championships is America’s premier national marching band event, as well as an educational performance opportunity and spectacular music and pageantry event. Over three days, performances are evaluated by a panel of nationally recognized music educators and marching band experts. The BOA Championships returned in 2021 after the 2020 season was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Voices of Oklahoma BY THE NUMBERS
naturalization Tulsa’s naturalization ceremonies stem from the City of Tulsa’s New Tulsans Initiative, a comprehensive roadmap launched in 2019 to welcome immigrants and refugees by fostering connections between them and long-term residents. To become a naturalized citizen, an individual must be 18 years or older, be a permanent resident for several years, and demonstrate an attachment to the principles and ideals of the U.S. Constitution. Residents must also read, write and speak basic English and have a basic understanding of U.S. history and government. It costs at least $725 to go through the naturalization process, and most residents incur attorney fees. SOURCE: City of Tulsa 8
TulsaPeople FEBRUARY 2022
11 NATURALIZATION CEREMONIES WERE HELD IN 2021. 225 TULSANS BECAME NATURALIZED CITIZENS IN 2021. 49 COUNTRIES WERE REPRESENTED. 616 TULSANS HAVE BECOME NATURALIZED CITIZENS SINCE 2019. 25 CHILDREN TOOK OATHS OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE UNITED STATES IN 2021 AT THE CITY’S FIRST CHILD CITIZENSHIP CEREMONY. THE MAJORITY OF THESE CHILDREN DERIVED U.S. CITIZENSHIP BECAUSE THEIR PARENT(S) NATURALIZED.
“One thing I will always remember is that the Black educators saw their work not as their job, but (as) their ministry in life, to educate their children; change their trajectory; give them reason to become productive, caring citizens. And that’s what they did. Our schoolbooks were secondhand, but the teaching itself was forthright. The expectations were forthright. The stick-to-itiveness to get it done was forthright. They demanded the best of us.” — Clifton Taulbert, motivational speaker, awardwinning author, and president and CEO of Roots Java, a Rwandan-sourced coffee business “Voices of Oklahoma” is an oral history project founded by John Erling in 2009. Visit voicesofoklahoma.com.
PEREZ: MORGAN PHILLIPS; PRIDE: JOLESCH ENTERPRISES/BAPS - ARROW VISION; TAULBERT: EVAN TAYLOR
Jonathan Perez’s Peruvian catering company is named Inkanto, a blend of “Inka” and “encanto,” which means “love” in Spanish.
Jonathan Perez grew up cooking with his grandmother, a restaurateur in Peru. Now he operates his own Peruvian catering company in Tulsa, his home of 13 years. Helping Perez learn the ropes of the food business is Cocina 66, an incubator program for Spanish-speaking food entrepreneurs. Housed at Mother Road Market, the eight-week program teaches skills ranging from marketing and public relations to securing business financing and permits. Community leader Elian Hurtado and UMA Tulsa, a nonprofit focused on education, economic development and advocacy, connected the Lobeck-Taylor Family Foundation with bilingual instructors. The translated curriculum came from the Kitchen 66 Launch Program, which has been helping food entrepreneurs in Tulsa launch their concepts since 2016. “It’s always been in the discussion of us wanting to offer the information in Spanish,” says Rachael Raegan, Kitchen 66 program director. “I think what was really important to us is that we found the right person (Hurtado) to partner with to do it. We also wanted the Latinx community in Tulsa to feel like it was really their program.” Perez, who was among the first nine entrepreneurs to complete the pilot in December, calls Cocina 66 “a wonderful opportunity.” “I like the format of this program because every day is different,” he says through a translator. “It could be about handling food, how to open a business. Every day we learn something different.” He eventually plans to open a restaurant like his grandmother’s because, he explains, “Cooking is my passion, and Peruvian food is not very well known yet in Tulsa.”
paradise never sounded So Good.
Tickets On Sale Now The Beach Boys FEB 10 LEE BRICE FEB 12 TIM ALLEN FEB 18 BRETT YOUNG FEB 25 GLADYS KNIGHT FEB 26 All performances subject to change.
Live Music 7 Nights a Week in 5 o’Clock Somewhere Bar Fridays & Saturdays in Margaritaville! Visit margaritavilletulsa.com for a complete schedule.
81st & RIVERSIDE • (888) 748-3731 • RIVERSPIRITTULSA.COM
FEBRUARY
VISIT TULSAPEOPLE.COM/CALENDAR FOR MORE LOCAL EVENTS. FIND A COMPREHENSIVE LIST OF WEEKLY MUSIC LISTINGS EVERY MONDAY AT TULSAPEOPLE.COM.
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TulsaPeople FEBRUARY 2022
FEB. 5 MIDLAKE @ THE MUSEUM Midlake, a folk band formed in Denton, Texas, premieres its first new album in eight years in an intimate performance in the historical villa. PHILBROOK MUSEUM OF ART, 2727 S. ROCKFORD ROAD PHILBROOK.ORG
FEB. 12 TU VS. CINCINNATI The University of Tulsa Golden Hurricane take on the Cincinnati Bearcats for some hardcourt hoops action. REYNOLDS CENTER, 3208 E. EIGHTH ST. TULSAHURRICANE.COM
THROUGH FEB. 6 TULSA BOAT, SPORT AND TRAVEL SHOW All aboard! Gear up for your next adventure with displays of boats, RVs and myriad outdoor accessories inside the Sage Net Center. EXPO SQUARE, 4145 E. 21ST ST. TULSABOATSHOW.COM
FEB. 19 ERIC CHURCH: THE GATHER AGAIN TOUR The reigning Country Music Association Entertainer of the Year brings his stadium tour to Tulsa for a night of country hits like “Springsteen” and “Hell of a View.” BOK CENTER, 200 S. DENVER AVE. BOKCENTER.COM
FEB. 7 I CAN’T START SEEDS Learn to sow seeds with the help of experts from Tulsa Botanic Garden during Tulsa Community College’s free “I Can’t” virtual workshops. Also Feb. 21 and 28 with varying subjects. ONLINE TULSACC.EDU
FEB. 25 & 27 “EMMELINE” Tulsa Opera debuts this production, based on a true story, featuring Leona Mitchell, Maria Natale and Tulsa’s own Sam Briggs. TULSA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER, 110 E. SECOND ST. TULSAOPERA.COM
FEB. 10-13 “VENDETTA: A MAFIA STORY” The much-anticipated Tulsa Ballet debut tells the story of rival mob families in 1950s Chicago. TULSA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER, 110 E. SECOND ST. TULSABALLET.ORG
THROUGH FEB. 28 LIFE-SIZED CANDYLAND Library patrons can play on a life-sized Candyland game board, with self-guided instructions to travel through the Peppermint Forest, Gumdrop Mountain and Candy Castle. JUDY Z. KISHNER LIBRARY, 10150 N. CINCINNATI AVE., SPERRY TULSALIBRARY.ORG
TU: BILL POWELL; CHURCH: COURTESY BOK CENTER; BALLET: JEREMY CHARLES; BOAT SHOW, MIDLAKE, LIBRARY, OPERA: COURTESY
FEB. 5 VALENTINES ARE FOR KIDS, TOO! Kids ages 8-12 learn to make decorated sugar cookies, chocolatedipped strawberries and cookiesand-cream Rice Krispies treats. THE GIRL CAN COOK, 315 S. MAIN ST., BROKEN ARROW THEGIRLCANCOOKSCHOOL.COM
Let us entertain you NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC LIVE GREENWOOD: A CENTURY OF RESILIENCE FEBRUARY 24, 2022
FEBRUARY 18-19, 2022
PILOBOLUS DANCE March 24, 2022
TOWER OF POWER April 9, 2022
TICKETS ON SALE NOW!
COFFEE WITH
BRYON HELM CIVIL RIGHTS ATTORNEY GOES FISHING AND FINDS A NEW CAUSE. STORY AND PHOTO BY TIM LANDES
O
n a sunny afternoon in January, Bryon Helm, a civil rights attorney for Smolen and Roytman Attorneys, enjoyed an iced Americano on the DoubleShot Coffee Co. patio as he shared lots of fishing stories. What started as a hobby has turned into a real passion. HELM GOT INTO FLY FISHING THE ARKANSAS RIVER AFTER HE SPOTTED WHAT HE CALLS AN “AQUARIUM OF FISH” SWIMMING IN THE AREA WHERE BIRD CREEK AND THE RIVER MEET AS FLOODWATERS RECEDED IN 2019 ... I threw some flies in there and caught largemouth bass, spotted bass and striper. Then all these sunfish and catfish. It was crazy. I had no idea we had some of the best fishing in the region in the river flowing through our city. OVER THE PAST FEW YEARS, HELM HAS FLY FISHED ALL ALONG THE RIVER. HE’S MADE NEW FRIENDS AND HAD SOME EPIC BATTLES WITH FISH ... One day the fish were really biting. I threw a fly and it just got demolished. Just like ripped right off. It shook my entire body. Shook my bones. I tied another fly. Then it happened again. Then I landed a big striped bass. I proceeded to catch three or four more before my rods shattered. HELM HAS LEARNED A LOT ABOUT THE RIVER’S ECOSYSTEM AND CAN TELL AN INTERESTING STORY ABOUT HOW THE RIVER BECAME A HOTBED FOR STRIPED BASS. HE HOPES TO KEEP IT THAT WAY, BUT THERE ARE CONCERNS. HE AND OTHERS ARE FORMING A NONPROFIT AND HAVE BEEN IN TALKS WITH THE CITY COUNCIL ABOUT PROTECTING THE RIVER AND MAKING IT SAFER FOR EVERYONE ... A group of us presented to them in the fall, and they were engaged and interested in learning more. There is a lot of old infrastructure project stuff dumped into the river and along the banks. There are plans to make it
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TulsaPeople FEBRUARY 2022
more recreational, and there is a lot of rebar sticking up in places. The river is really dangerous. Not to mention the currents that can suck you under. You have to be careful. OTHER CONCERNS INCLUDE THE OPERATION OF THE ZINK DAM ONCE IT’S COMPLETED IN 2023 BECAUSE IT’S CURRENTLY THE AREA STRIPERS MIGRATE TO AND WHERE THEY LAY EGGS. IF THE EGGS CAN’T PASS AND ARE BURIED IN SEDIMENT, THEY DON’T SURVIVE. AND THEN AN EVEN BIGGER THREAT IS THE PROPOSED JENKS DAM ... The studies that consultants for the City and (Tulsa) County did show that between Zink Dam and the Jenks Dam, fishing is going to be wiped out. The fish will have a new spawn point further south. You’d have a Keystone fishery and a Jenks fishery and a dead zone in between what is some of the best striper fishing in the region. We’re really lucky. We don’t want to lose that. AS FOR HIS DAY JOB, ON HOW THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC HAS IMPACTED HIS WORK ... Ninety-five percent of my work is civil rights cases in federal court. At the same time the courts were going through
COVID-19 precautions, the Supreme Court ruled on McGirt. Federal courts were flooded with criminal cases and because of the speedy trial clause the criminal cases take priority. It is currently impossible, for the most part, to get a civil trial in federal court in the North and Eastern Districts of Oklahoma. THERE ALSO IS A SHORTAGE OF FEDERAL JUDGES TO HANDLE THE INCREASED WORKLOAD ... My understanding is the Biden administration and judicial committee have approved a number of judges for the Northern and Eastern District. From what I hear Sen. Jim Inhofe is not going to let that happen to the extent that he can during Biden’s administration, which is very unfortunate, because we’ve had a lot of big civil rights verdicts and settlements come out of these federal courthouses. There are incredibly tragic cases resulting from systemic failures in our public institutions, especially in the jails. We have families waiting two years for a motion concerning whether the case goes to trial. It’s on pause until we get the order. It hurts these families. That’s a big issue we have faced along with the pandemic. TP
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Cox Homelife is available to residential customers in select Cox service areas. A high-speed Internet connection is required. Cox Homelife Security service plan required for professional monitoring services for intrusion, smoke/fire and related system components. Applicable monthly service charges, installation, additional equipment, taxes, trip charges and other fees may apply. Subject to credit approval. Other restrictions may apply. Local ordinances may require an alarm user permit or external lock box. Cox Homelife Service provided by Cox Advanced Services: Arizona, LLC – Alarm Lic. #18141–0 & ROC Lic. #310876; Arkansas, LLC – Lic. #E 2014 0026 & #CMPY.0002278; California, LLC – Alarm Lic. #7196 & Contractor’s Lic. #992992; Connecticut, LLC – N/A; Florida, LLC – Lic. #EF20001232; Georgia, LLC – License: Bryan David Melancon #LVU406595; Idaho, LLC – Lic. #024933; Iowa, LLC – Lic. #C121646 & #AC268; Louisiana, LLC – Lic. #F 2006; Nebraska, LLC – Lic. #26512; Nevada, LLC dba Cox Homelife – Lic. #78331; Ohio, LLC – Lic. #53–181671; Oklahoma, LLC – Lic. #2002; Rhode Island, LLC – Lic. #9314; Kansas, LLC – Topeka Lic. #109 & Wichita Lic. #2015–36492; Virginia, LLC – DCJS Lic. #11–7776 & DPOR Lic. # 2705164725 ©2022 Cox Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. MAG107433–0100
ROOTS
ABOVE AND BEYOND
CLEAN CONSCIENCE TULSAN BUILDS PERSONAL CARE BRAND. BY TIFFANY HOWARD
T
ulsa native and Booker T. graduate Jerome Clark might be based in New York City, but Tulsa was on his mind when he launched his purpose-driven personal care brand, In Good Conscience, in November 2021. Sold locally at Mandy’s Beauty Supply — a Black-owned beauty retailer with two locations in Tulsa — and at ingoodconsciencecare.com, a portion of each purchase supports the Tulsa Dream Center. With over 12 years of experience in beauty and personal care, Clark’s inspiration to start In Good Conscience was two-fold. “It’s about being able to provide healthy, naturally clean self-care products that people use on a day-to-day basis, but it’s also about using the product as a platform for change by helping to address many of the socioeconomic disparities oftentimes found in communities of color,” like his own childhood neighborhood, north Tulsa, Clark says. What makes In Good Conscience unique is its “culturally sustainable” business model, meaning that Mandy’s and the Tulsa Dream Center are two parts of the circular impact Clark’s brand fosters at every step of the process — from the value chain, to retailers, to ultimately giving back to community nonprofits.
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TulsaPeople FEBRUARY 2022
“Cultural sustainability is a method of direct and indirect impact that the usage of our products provides to cultural communities in the U.S.,” he says. “We’ve also integrated this philosophy into who we partner with as we bring the products to market. We prioritize partnerships with Blackand minority-owned manufacturers to make the product, as well as with e-commerce vendors who warehouse and ship the products, marketing fi rms, community banks and retailers.” Clark hopes to eventually expand beyond body wash into other bath and body categories. TP
FEB. 12 TULSA HEART BALL 6-11:30 p.m. $500. Benefits American Heart Association. Cox Business Convention Center, 100 Civic Center. tulsaheartball.heart.org
COURTESY
Never animal tested and naturally fragranced, In Good Conscience body washes are free of sulfates, parabens, phthalates and synthetic fragrances. Founded by Jerome Clark, below, the company uses recyclable packaging and utilizes sustainable practices to source ingredients like babassu oil from the Dominican Republic.
Sand Springs resident Vicky Laymon-Hodson has worn many hats working for her family’s 33-year-old business, Enduro Pipeline Services, since she was a teenager. In addition to her role as a data analyst supervisor, which includes mapping pipelines across the United States, Laymon-Hodson has led free exercise classes and monthly fit challenges for Enduro employees — an initiative she rolled out in partnership with the local American Heart Association chapter. “A lot of heart disease can be prevented just by living a healthy lifestyle,” she explains, “and so educating people on that aspect is something I really enjoy doing.” Laymon-Hodson has been involved with AHA since 2017, and in 2020 joined the organization’s volunteer Executive Leadership Team. The same year, she was awarded the AHA’s Heart of Tulsa Award for her work in the community and for implementing the health and wellness program at Enduro. This month Laymon-Hodson will chair the Tulsa Heart Ball. Her favorite part of the annual AHA fundraiser is when a local family shares their journey through heart disease and how AHA has helped them. “If we can continue to educate people, especially children, then that will spill over into their families, and we can become healthier people and heart disease will start to decrease,” she says. “So that’s one reason why we’re involved in the Heart Association because I believe we can make a difference beyond just funding testing — in research.” — MORGAN PHILLIPS
NAME GAME
CRISS-CROSSED MEET TWO TULSANS WITH THE SAME NAME. BY LINDSEY NEAL KUYKENDALL
Professional photographer specializing in editorial, portraits and landscapes.
Chief communications officer for Union Public Schools. Avid moviegoers
Born in Burlington, Iowa; moved all over before landing in Tulsa in 1993.
Gretchen Haas-Bethel had Chris’ job before him, and she is Kris’ neighbor.
Has three daughters and five grandkids.
Chris Payne, 58
Avid reader who loves scary books (most recent favorite is “Where They Wait” by Scott Carson).
Enjoy photography (a hobby for Chris).
Dropped out of dental school; he might have been Dr. Payne.
Kris has an aunt Susan, and Chris’ wife is Susan.
Born in Skiatook and left at age 20; lived all over the country and returned to Oklahoma in 2018. Also owns a record label, Black Mesa. Loves fiction books (favorite author is Carl Sagan). Considered careers in music and computer science.
Kris Payne, 38
The next step.
CHRIS: COURTESY; KRIS: CHAD COCHRAN
Congratulations to new partners Rachel Lenehan and Hayley Stephens.
NW ARKANSAS
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TULSA
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OKC
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DALLAS
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HOUSTON
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WASHINGTON, D.C.
TulsaPeople.com
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BIZ WHIZ
MEET AND GREET NAME: Elizabeth Inbody KNOWN AS: the new executive director for the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence, a statewide nonprofit that recognizes and encourages academic excellence in public schools. Inbody, a Tulsan, previously served as executive director of the Jenks Public Schools Foundation.
SPEAKERS OF THE HOUSE TULSAN REPAIRS AND REFURBISHES VINTAGE STEREO EQUIPMENT. BY TIM LANDES
D
avid Miller is in the business of making you feel like a kid again. That feeling of listening to Led Zeppelin so loud your parents would scream to “Turn it down right now.” “We are interested in bringing back the emotional high of listening to your ’70s quality stereo equipment,” says Miller, who opened Speakerworks in 1984. He has since made a long career out of servicing stereo equipment and selling new and pre-owned speakers, receivers, power amps, turntables and more. “October was the busiest month we’ve had in over 30 years of business,” Miller says. He credits landing 117 vintage pieces from an estate sale, which he resold quickly. The pandemic also has people spending more time at home, and there’s been a near decade-long resurgence in vinyl and turntables. Step inside his shop at 4722 S. Mingo Road, and the amount of equipment is overwhelm-
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ing. Stand around for 10-15 minutes and you’ll see two or three customers come in carrying a speaker or turntable that needs repair or maybe just a new needle. Miller has 700 styli in stock for the various makes and models in circulation. Speakerworks is an authorized retailer of Klipsch Heritage speakers, U Turn Turntables, Music Hall Turntables, Lehman Phono Preamps, Okki Nokki Record Cleaners and Ortofon Cartridges. Miller says much of today’s equipment is made and sold cheaply, so people will toss it when it dies and buy the next model. “I’ll take care of the old JBLs, the old Altechs, the stuff that means a lot to these people,” says the 73-year-old, who plans to work until he’s 80. “There’s very few of us who really are familiar with them and sold them when they were new and have been around them all these years.” TP
ON A SCHOOL FUNDING WIN: “A recently amended Oklahoma law will open more doors for public schools to raise private donations to benefit their students and educational programs. Effective Jan. 1, the Equal Opportunity Scholarship Act now gives donors to public schools and public school foundations the same tax credit previously afforded only to private school donors. The law provides $25 million in tax credits annually to benefit public schools. Each school district is eligible for $200,000 in tax credits annually. “School districts and public school foundations are working to put processes in place to administer the new program. The Oklahoma Schools Foundation Network — a program of the OFE — is working alongside school foundations to provide guidance and information as it becomes available. Individuals and businesses interested in supporting Oklahoma public schools should contact their school foundations or district leaders.” — MORGAN PHILLIPS
MEET AND GREET: COURTESY; BIZ WHIZ: MICHELLE POLLARD
David Miller got his start repairing sound equipment in 1968, when as a University of Tulsa student he also worked at SEVCO, a longtime Tulsa sound equipment store. Later he toured as a circus musician before returning home to Tulsa and starting Speakerworks as an authorized service center, while DJing events all over Tulsa at night.
ON HER CAREER PATH: “My passion for public education stems from my experiences growing up in a small town and attending public schools, as well as from the influence of family members. “My mother and grandmother were both educators. They were strong advocates of early education, and they led by example. They shared the belief that education changes lives. “My grandmother, a trailblazer in early childhood education, opened a preschool in Oklahoma City in the early ’60s when there were few preschools in the city. Following in her footsteps, my mother opened a preschool in Blackwell (Oklahoma). She also established the Blackwell Public Schools Foundation largely due to her role as a founding trustee for the OFE.”
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DIRECTED BY WILLIE MINOR JR. Anyone who has witnessed ‘brothers’ telling tales in the neighborhood barbershop or at the local Mickey D’s will be familiar with the shared camaraderie, ego, fear and ambition that comes to the fore in a small jitney (gypsy-cab) station in 1970s Pittsburgh in August Wilson’s very funny, as well as very touching play, “Jitney.”
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CHANGEMAKERS
My Brother’s Keeper Tulsa Director BerThaddaeus Bailey is a community activist, nonprofit founder, policy analyst and consultant. Hear from him on the Feb. 2 episode of Tulsa Talks: A TulsaPeople Podcast.
DVIS CEO Tracey Lyall and Rose Turner, vice president of clinical programs and services. Since 2016, DVIS has seen a 50% increase in the number of nights of lodging provided in its shelter and a 20% increase in nights of lodging at its transitional housing facility.
POISED TO SERVE
NONPROFIT MEETS RISING NEEDS OF ABUSE SURVIVORS. STORIES BY MORGAN PHILLIPS
A
lot has happened since DVIS began expanding the organization’s footprint in 2015, not the least of which was a global pandemic. But despite the challenges of maintaining COVID-19 safety protocols and receiving record numbers of calls to its domestic violence hotline, its physical expansion has been a silver lining. A $24 million capital campaign paid for a new shelter and transitional housing in 2015, and a new counseling and administrative office in 2017 — resulting in more beds and client rooms, individual bathrooms, private staff offices, a larger child care center, and the list goes on. “The new facilities have poised us to serve more people, and we’ve been able to do that in a much better way, and really a more trauma informed way, than before,” says DVIS CEO Tracey Lyall. Rose Turner, vice president of clinical programs and services, says the additional space has allowed DVIS to serve clients such as male survivors of domestic violence, transgender individuals and human trafficking survivors more easily and effectively. “All individuals present different needs in addressing their trauma,” she 18
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says. “More space is important to acknowledge and have respect and dignity for the challenges they’re having.” DVIS saw an increase in crisis calls as a result of the pandemic since many people were forced to remain home with their abusers. The organization also launched a crisis text line that operates daily from 8 p.m.-1 a.m. Protective orders also are on the rise, Lyall says. Since 2020 DVIS therapists have pivoted to offer virtual counseling options but have never stopped meeting clients in person with safety procedures in place. “Nothing replaces that human connection,” Turner says. “The facility just creates that warmth and conveys the value DVIS sees in all as they seek help in a very, very difficult time.” TP DVIS’ 24/7 CRISIS HOTLINE: 918-7HELP-ME OR Text SAFE to 207-777 daily from 8 p.m.-1 a.m. to text with a DVIS employee.
President Barack Obama launched the My Brother’s Keeper Alliance in 2014 to build safe and supportive communities for boys and young men of color. Eight years later, under the purview of ImpactTulsa, Tulsa has accepted the My Brother’s Keeper challenge, with native Tulsan BerThaddaeus Bailey taking the lead. Rather than offer programming, MBK takes a collaborative approach to systemic issues — “things like detrimental policies and procedures and practices within governments, school institutions and society,” Bailey says. Of the over 250 MBK communities nationwide, many municipalities are facilitating the program, but locally “ImpactTulsa is just aligned perfectly with its focus on cradle to career, being a backbone organization, focusing heavily in data and research,” Bailey says. “It is positioned well to foster the space to collaboratively work to implement systemic change.” MBK is funded by George Kaiser Family Foundation, and ImpactTulsa will seek additional grants and other partnerships to address what are often complex issues. To start, Tulsa students are being asked for their ideas on how the community can help advocate with them to effect change. “A major theme was they would like to see the success of people who look like them in communities they come from that is unrelated to sports, rapping and music,” Bailey says, adding that success can look like “providing for your family, getting a good job, completing college. “We will establish work groups to determine what organizations are currently working to improve outcomes for boys and young men of color, and how we can align resources to accelerate and expand impact and promote programming that has rendered positive outcomes.” TP
DVIS: GREG BOLLINGER; COURTESY
A CHALLENGE for change
HOW TO STAGE A SHELF
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MUSIC NOTES Pets.
BOTH SIDES OF THE BUSINESS
LOCAL MUSICIANS LAUNCH SINGLE FROM THEIR OWN STUDIO. STORIES BY JULIE WENGER WATSON
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recording studio is a magical place — part lab, part artist workshop. Capturing the essence of a musician’s sound is as much science as it is art. Tulsa musicians Matt Baker and Chayton Burleson opened Tune Room Studio, a residential recording studio in midtown Tulsa, in December 2020. For these young creatives, crossing from one side of the recording console to the other was a natural transition. “We were already doing it,” says Burleson, who also is Baker’s bandmate in indie rock outfit Pets. “It was something we couldn’t help but do,” Baker says. “Chayton and I always have a guitar in hand, and we’re always writing songs, but we’re also big gear nerds, too. I’ve always found a lot of magic and a lot of inspiration going into the studio.” After years of Studying Logic Pro software and writing songs from their bedrooms, a class with local recording engineer and producer Kendal Osborne of Closet Studios gave Baker and Burleson a fi rm audio foundation. The two 20
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credit Osborne for giving them the confidence they needed to start their own recording business. “That class was pivotal to us,” Baker says. “We not only learned about the recording side of things, but also the business side. It was a great inspiration.” Burleson concurs. “He was a great instructor,” he says. “Kendal taught us that recording and making music can be very scientific, and everyone has theories and certain rules they apply, but at the end of the day, it’s an art form.” In addition to recording new music from Pets., Baker and Burleson have worked locally with hip-hop artists PRETTYFACES, rapper Brody Gibbs and musician Cornelius Johnson, Lavish Obituaries, Candy Fly and others. “I love the Tulsa music scene. There are so many great artists, and it’s so eclectic. There’s a place for everybody,” Baker says. “I feel grateful to be able to help artists we know and who live and work in Tulsa push their sound and help them achieve what they want out of their music.” For more information follow Tune Room on Instagram: @tuneroomstudio. TP
Born in 2019 from a side project of Candy Fly bandmates Matt Baker and Chayton Burleson, Tulsa alternative rock band Pets. has grown into a five-piece ensemble that now includes Jordan Hodges, Michael Davis and Nathan Hairston. With the arrival of COVID-19 and the subsequent shut down, Pets. spent much of 2020 writing and recording music. The band has recently started releasing those quarantine-created singles to a rapidly expanding fan base. “We spent all of 2020 gradually recording and safely practicing,” says 24-year-old Baker, who sings and plays guitar with the band. “What everyone is hearing now is the product of that year and of just having the time to rehearse and work on those songs.” That time together also gave bandmembers a chance to hone their songwriting, which both Baker and 21-yearold Burleson, who plays keys and guitar, describe as a collaborative process. “It’s very much a product of jamming and ideas bouncing around at practice,” Baker says. Burleson agrees. “It’s changed a lot,” he says. “Initially, it was just Matt and I writing, but as more members have become involved, we just sort of jam out certain stuff or come up with ideas collectively. I see that being normal in the future now that we know our places and how to contribute.” For future releases and tour dates, follow Pets. on Instagram: @petsbandd. TP
TUNE ROOM: MICHELLE POLLARD; PETS.: COURTESY
Matt Baker and Chayton Burleson at Tune Room Studio
RECENT RELEASE HIGHLIGHTS BAND’S GROWTH DURING PANDEMIC
Read about how Play Tulsa Music has helped support local creatives at TulsaPeople.com.
Katie Dale, center, at the Oklahoma Governor’s Arts Awards, where Red Dirt Relief Fund received the Community Service Award from the Oklahoma Arts Council
RED DIRT RELIEF FUND RECEIVES GOVERNOR’S COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD
OKLAHOMA ARTS COUNCIL
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he pandemic has had devastating economic consequences for many industries. Live music, with its prevalence of gig workers, is no exception. Most musicians, sound engineers and other music industry professionals are self-employed. Many lack adequate health insurance or savings. As a result, accidents or medical emergencies can spell disaster. Since its founding in 2012, the Tulsa-based nonprofit Red Dirt Relief Fund has provided more than $550,000 to more than 800 music professionals facing these kinds of challenges. More than half of that money — which RDRF receives through individual, corporate and foundation support — was distributed during the past few years. “When we started this organization to provide a safety net of critical assistance to Oklahoma music professionals, we had no idea there would be a crisis that impacted every person working in this industry,” says Executive Director Katie Dale. “We distributed more than $100,000 to more than 250 out-of-work music professionals in the fi rst two months of the pandemic. These were not large grants, but something artists still thank us for, as it helped them pay bills and put groceries on the table for their families.” In November, RDRF received the Oklahoma Arts Council’s Community Service Award for supporting music professionals during the pandemic. While Dale appreciates the honor, she’s also grateful for the continued support from donors, music fans and the musicians themselves as RDRF enters the new year with plans to expand musician support services focusing on low-cost health care partnerships, mental health and alcohol/drug addiction treatment. For more information or to donate, visit reddirtrelieff und.org. TP
How Emergency & Hospital Care Should Be
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ART SPOT
Adi Jones Radford (age 16). “Self Portrait No. Blue,” ink on paper, 12-inches-by-9-inches
NEW DIRECTIONS
AHHA TULSA’S NEW DIRECTOR OF PROGRAMS AND ENGAGEMENT SEES POTENTIAL IN TULSA LIKE NOWHERE ELSE. STORIES BY ETHAN VEENKER
“I
don’t want to know one thing the best anybody can ever know it — I want to know a lot about a lot of things,” says Bracken Klar, ahha Tulsa’s new director of programs and engagement. Klar is an old hand at living and working in Tulsa. Born and raised here, he earned a sociology degree at Langston University and a master’s in library and information studies at the University of Oklahoma, then he worked for years at Tulsa City-County Library. Following that he was a library director at Holland Hall, the director of community engagement at Tulsa Public Schools, and since November he’s at ahha. Now Klar works with school districts and artists for the Artists in the Schools program, as well as artists who teach classes and workshops at ahha. “I’m still very new, so I’m still doing a lot of learning and listening at this point,” he notes. Hiring for ahha’s open positions has been a heavy focus, too. True to his ambitions, Klar, 44, is a real jackof-all-trades. Along with the ahha gig, he also is vice president at Tri-City Collective and a producer for “Focus: Black Oklahoma,” a local radio program covering news and topics of interest to the state’s Black, Indigenous and people of color (BIPOC) communities — and he somehow finds time to volunteer with Mapworks Tulsa and the Jewish Federation of Tulsa.
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Or, actually, “I don’t find time; I make the time,” he says. For Klar it’s not difficult to wear a lot of hats when you care deeply for each. “My geographical upbringing is boring, but I know Tulsa really well,” he says. Klar’s many positions and interests over the years have afforded him insight into the city, what it boasts and what it lacks. While many of Klar’s friends and colleagues left Oklahoma in the rearview after graduating, he kept finding reasons to stay. He saw work to be done. “I have a lifelong Tulsan’s ability and passion for seeing the potential here,” he says. One example: “It doesn’t take as much time or energy to start a radio show in Tulsa as it does in Chicago or Austin. In Tulsa, one person can make the change — a large impact — outside of their specific circle.” The vision hasn’t changed with his new position at ahha. Klar intends to stretch beyond performativity here — when he says he’s “opening a dialogue,” he really means that. He wants Tulsans to tell him what they want from a place like ahha, and he wants to make it happen. “I would welcome anybody who calls Tulsa home to contact ahha, contact me: Let us know what’s working, what’s not working — I’m down to have difficult conversations,” he says. “I want people to see themselves in ahha.” TP
“The BIG Show: Work by Young Artists,” an upcoming exhibition at Philbrook Museum of Art, is aptly named: It’ll be the largest show in Philbrook’s history, with a whopping 2,500 works of art on display. Subtitled “Work by Young Artists,” the show’s name reflects the scale, but also the unifying theme. In the words of Tracy Truels, Philbrook’s director of learning and audience engagement, “We also wanted to emphasize the importance of this work and that it is deserving of everyone’s attention.” The work in question was submitted by Oklahoma’s own teens and children last year. Self-described as “radically inclusive” on the basis that each eligible submission was added to the exhibition, “The BIG Show” includes work from those ages 4 to 18 across multiple media. The show was curated in a nontraditional way. The artists selected the section of the exhibition where their work would appear, and many recorded video introductions to their piece. The exhibition will have wall text written by staff that emphasizes the voices and perspectives of young artists. “Most exhibitions of art by kids and teens contain works selected by adults from a larger pool of entries. While that is great for those projects, the entire drive behind ‘The BIG Show’ is that we wanted to celebrate the creativity, ideas and perspectives of all young people who wanted to be part of the project,” says Jenny Fisher, Philbrook’s manager of youth and family audiences. Many of the submissions come from “artmaking pop-ups” hosted last year by Tulsa Zoo, Gathering Place, FC Tulsa and others. Philbrook also sent submission-eligible art supplies to schools across the state. The show is at the museum, 2727 S. Rockford Road, from March 11-May 8. TP
GREG BOLLINGER; SELF PORTRAIT: COURTESY
Bracken Klar started as ahha Tulsa’s new director of programs and engagement in November.
A TRULY BIG SHOW
C H A R I TA B L E E V E N T S COMPILED BY AMANDA HALL 3-4
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Beyond Awareness Summit
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Booker T. Washington High School Distinguished Hall of Fame Twelve Booker T. Washington High School alumni were inducted into the school’s Distinguished Hall of Fame on Nov. 4 at the Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame. BTW alumnus Emmit McHenry was the keynote speaker. He created a complex computer code that allows ordinary people to surf the web and receive e-mails. The BTW Distinguished Hall of Fame Foundation honors the legacy of BTW High School and awards college scholarships to graduating students. The Nov. 4 event supported the Foundation’s scholarship fund. 1. BTW select choir alumni Keesha McQuarters-Dement, Septembra McQuarters-Williams, Stephani Brown, Teri Vajda, Josh Jones, Adairia Tarver-Vinson, Brandi Davidson, Janice Bayouth and Kayla Davidson 2. McQuarters-Williams, Brown and McQuarters-Dement performed the school hymn. 3. 1962 graduates John Fellows, Emmit McHenry and Gerald Sanders 4. 2021-22 Hall of Fame inductees John Townsend, Ed Ross (representing his father, Don Ross), Jennifer Loren, Ava Fisher, Janice Bayouth, Abraham Harold Fields, Aaron Lockett, Brandon L. Jackson, Terry Tumey and Art Williams. Derrick Minter and Joe Thomas were posthumously inducted.
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Colson Scott
Anne Pollard James
Chris Dearman, center, with his parents
THREE TULSANS SHARE HOW THEY USED LOCAL EDUCATION RESOURCES TO REVAMP THEMSELVES. BY BLAYKLEE FREED 24
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T
ulsa is a city where it’s possible to reinvent oneself — be that through a new career or a project that inspires creativity. Local classes offered by both educational institutions and community-focused organizations make this city a hot spot with accessible learning options to try something new.
ANNE POLLARD JAMES ARTIST
About three years ago, Anne Pollard James returned from a silent meditation and yoga retreat vowing to be more creative. “I started writing poetry, and then I took a ceramics
class, and then I took a drawing class with my next-door neighbor, who is a phenomenal artist, JP Morrison,” she says. “I was so frustrated because I couldn’t draw.” Pollard James, a real estate broker with her own company, was looking for further art instruction when she met Ross Myers at yoga class. Myers has taught art classes at Ziegler’s for years. She signed up for his drawing classes and recalls some helpful advice Myers gave the class. “He said, ‘You don’t have to be any good to learn what I’m going to teach you. It’s not magic. You don’t have to be an artist. I’m going to show you how to look at things. So that you see shapes, not objects.’”
POLLARD JAMES, SCOTT: GREG BOLLINGER; DEARMAN: COURTESY
NEW ENDEAVORS
After learning the foundations of drawing, Pollard James practiced until she was able to sketch with charcoal. Then she took her first oil painting class, painting a sphere with Marjorie Atwood the week before the March 2020 pandemic shutdown. Pollard James says painting with people is a unique experience. “It is so wonderful, not because you’re necessarily talking constantly about ideas, but it’s the energy of people creating and how incredibly buoyant that energy is,” she says. Since her community-based education, Pollard James has grown an expansive portfolio of oil paintings that gives a commentary on womanhood today. “When I think about what it is I’m trying to express from my experiences in life — I’m 49 — I’m trying to present female confidence in a way that has historically been owned by men,” she says. “So when I’m presenting something that is a little bit provocative in terms of skin showing, it’s almost always about the act of ownership of said body.” In fact, if you look closely on many her paintings revealing a woman’s body, you’ll find the word “mine” tattooed on skin that’s showing. “For me, the fact that we’re having this gender conversation still in 2021 and ’22 is one thing that motivates me,” Pollard James says. Now she’s working on scale, moving from paintings 20-inches-by-20-inches to canvases multiple feet wide, as well as color theory. She relies on information from fellow artists to learn, but also is trying new things. “I have friends and they teach what they can, but most of it is just experimentation,” she says. “I think since I don’t know any better, I don’t have the same rules — and I find that to be a huge luxury because I don’t know what’s wrong, and it doesn’t matter.” That’s because it’s about the experience of creating, Pollard James says. “Maybe at 21 or 25 years old, I wouldn’t have had the confidence to just go try something so visible (and available for criticism),” she says. “I’m putting it out there because I like it, and it’s super fun. Maybe at 49 it’s way different to put yourself out there. Maybe the lesson for me is that, at some point, you’re enough, and it’s OK to just be what you are.” Her work was part of a show curated by Twenty Seven Art in December, and in February she is participating in the juried Tulsa Artists Coalition exhibition at ahha.
COLSON SCOTT SOFTWARE DEVELOPER
When Colson Scott graduated from Oklahoma State University in 2014, he faced a dilemma. He wasn’t passionate about the subjects he studied in college — marketing and management. Instead of finding a job he knew he wouldn’t like long term, Scott took advantage of free airfare on American Airlines, where his dad works. “I basically decided, I’m going to just do what I can to travel the world and figure out what I’m passionate about, my strengths and weaknesses, and how I want to move forward with my life,” Scott says. He worked contract jobs to fund his travels, everything from odd jobs to meal delivery and rideshare. Scott was his family’s “household IT support” growing up in Owasso and always enjoyed working on computers. “I had dabbled with programming a little bit here and there, but there’s so many different paths to take, and I was really unsure of which path was the best one for me.”
to put yourself out
Scott and 16 others in the inaugural Holberton Tulsa cohort graduated in September. He started work as a software engineer at GitWit, a local marketing agency, on Oct. 9, and credits his success to the collaborative environment at Holberton, which forgoes long class lectures and encourages peer-to-peer learning through collaborative projects. “You’re as strong as your peers, and I wouldn’t have wanted to do it with anybody else. We made some relationships and friendships that are going to last, hopefully, forever.”
there. Maybe the
CHRIS DEARMAN SENIOR MANAGER
“Maybe at 49 it’s way different
lesson for me is that, at some point, you’re enough, and it’s OK to just be what you are.” —ANNE POLLARD JAMES
Beyond the variety of fields within computer science — software development, web development, DevOps (development and operations) engineering — and technologies burgeoning on the horizon like augmented reality, virtual reality and the blockchain technology behind cryptocurrency, Scott had to consider how to get his education. In September 2019 he learned about a new school coming to Tulsa — not a bootcamp, college or university. It was Holberton School, an institution with immersive software engineer and developer programs. Though he learned invaluable lessons at OSU, he also found inefficiencies in the traditional higher education system, “one of the main being that traditional education, (and) educational systems aren’t incentivized at all for you to actually get a job, and that was one of the things that I really appreciate about Holberton.” Holberton students don’t have to pay tuition upfront. Rather, they can opt for an income-share agreement in which they pay a percentage of their salary back once they have a job making at least $40,000. Scott also qualified for a living stipend to help offset the cost of bills. “That, for me, kind of set the tone,” he says. “This organization is committed to helping me cultivate the skills I need to actually land a job, and they’re incentivized to help me. “Whether it was fate or simply serendipity, I felt the conviction that I lacked as I was graduating college, and I knew this was the path for me. And yeah, after a rigorous but rewarding 20-month program, I was fortunate enough to land a job at my favorite Tulsa company.”
Education has been important to Chris Dearman’s family for as long as he can remember. His parents are teachers; in fact, his mom was his own math teacher from grades 7-12. Dearman remembers when she got a job teaching in Las Vegas making about $18,000 more than in Oklahoma. “The $45,000 starting salary was life-changing money,” Dearman says, “even though $45,000 is what I was making in the collections industry.” Dearman worked in the collections industry with no degree, while his parents had been in the education system for 15 years. “It gives you an idea of the disparity from education to that world (the collections industry) that sucks you in and will never let you go,” he says. The collections industry had opportunities to make good money through bonuses, Dearman says, but after a few years the stress of the job wasn’t worth it. It was time for change. Dearman worked as a business director, climbing his way to the top, again without a degree — but he was laid off in July 2018. By September, he had gone months without a single hit on job applications. “I was under-qualified, even though I had a majority of the skills to be successful for the position,” he says. Changes in the industry meant companies now require degrees, not just equivalent experience. However, that didn’t deter Dearman. “My mom proved it to me that you can make a life change,” he says, noting she earned her law degree in 2004 at age 49, and worked for 17 years as a director, senior director and CEO until her retirement. Dearman thought Tulsa Community College was a good place to start. “Having a conversation with a (TCC) counselor provided me the way forward,” says Dearman, who graduated from TCC in December 2019 with an associate degree in business administration. One reason he chose TCC: Many of its programs transfer credits seamlessly to four-year institutions. After graduation, he transferred to the University of Oklahoma and received his bachelor’s on Dec. 18, 2021, in organizational leadership. Now he’s a senior manager in the training department at his organization. “I get to interact as a project manager because I have multiple vendors,” Dearman says. “My specialization with my education has been grabbing a client — a process oriented on what’s made us successful — and then launching the client and handing it off to somebody else after training.” Dearman, 47, began his master’s degree program in January and plans to have his doctorate by 53. “A lot of what college teaches you, the theories and concepts, is where I think we have an opportunity in college to impact the newer workforce as they come through, which is why I want to be an adjunct professor and come back to TCC,” he says. TP TulsaPeople.com
25
THE
language OF LEARNING AREA TEACHERS HELP STUDENTS LEARN ENGLISH. BY JOHN TRANCHINA 26
TulsaPeople FEBRUARY 2022
IT IS DIFFICULT ENOUGH TO LEARN A NEW LANGUAGE, but try doing it while also attempting to learn math, science and history in that new language. This is the challenge facing nearly 60,000 students in Oklahoma public schools who speak a language other than English. Many of those students are here in the Tulsa area, with 37% of the Tulsa Public Schools district alone being English learners. And while most English learners speak Spanish, no less than 72 languages are represented. “Learning a language can just be very challenging. It’s a process that takes time,” says Laura Grisso, Tulsa Public Schools’ executive director of language and cultural services. “Research shows it takes 7-10 years to become fully proficient academically in another language. It’s one thing to have a conversation on the street: ‘How’s the weather? I want to order a pizza.’ It’s a whole other thing to learn biology in high school in a new language.” As Grisso notes, the process of learning the language enough to assimilate into a regular classroom usually takes years as each student picks it up at their own rate. WIDA, a road map of milestones, tracks language development standards and proficiency levels.
“The younger they start, the faster they tend to pick it up,” says Hannah Pearsall, an English language development (ELD) teacher at Tulsa’s Cooper Elementary. “And also, the more literate they are in their first language, the faster they pick up English because they can use what they know from their first language and apply it.” Pearsall says students often go through a “silent period,” where they don’t feel comfortable speaking the new language and instead are taking it all in. Although progress might seem slow, a child’s mind is developing steadily the entire time. “Once they make it through that silent period, they typically come with short, two-word phrases you can use to interpret what they’re trying to say,” Pearsall says. “They’re typically things that are recurring, like they’ll ask to go to the bathroom or they’ll say they need a spoon. And then they move from that into being more comfortable talking with their peers, and eventually they get into the technical vocabulary of the academic content we’re teaching them.” Many ELD teachers do not speak the languages their students speak, of which there are many. “The goal isn’t to talk to the kids in Spanish because
MICHELLE POLLARD; TELP: COURTESY
Hannah Pearsall, center, is one of about 150 English language development teachers at Tulsa Public Schools. She works with students Juana Rodriguez Garcia and Larissa Cortes inside her Cooper Elementary classroom.
PROGRAM HELPING TEACHERS ACROSS THE STATE
Teachers of English Learners Project leaders gather to discuss the online professional development platform, now available to teachers statewide through the Oklahoma State Department of Education. Pictured are former Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence Executive Director and Project Lead Emily Stratton, Virtual Facilitator Coordinator Charlotte Jones, Project Manager Lisa Pryor (seated) and English learner teachers Marcie Levy and Ellen Kraft.
you want them to learn English,” says Jazmine Dale, a language arts teacher (both for English-speaking students as well as English learners) at Union’s 6th and 7th Grade Center. However, Dale is learning Spanish to better communicate with students’ families. “I want to be the one to talk to the parents, not me talking to someone else and them translating for me,” Dale says. “I think parents want to be involved in their child’s education but don’t know how because of the language barrier. That does make it challenging.” After Spanish, Grisso says the language with the second-most TPS speakers is Hmong, a language spoken by people around Laos in southeast Asia. The third-most represented language is Chuukese, originally spoken in the Micronesian islands of the Pacific Ocean. There also are people from Pakistan speaking Urdu, and more recently, there’s been an influx of refugees from Afghanistan who speak Dari or Pashto. “Since October, we’ve enrolled over 100 school-age students who are refugees, and we’re supporting them while they’re in short-term housing, before they move to long-term housing,” says Grisso, who has a team of about 150 ELD teachers at TPS working with the district’s students, as well as six teacher coaches and five multilingual pathways team members. “It’s been a learning process. Those two languages have a different orthography (a set of conventions for writing a language), so we’re having to teach handwriting for the Roman alphabet because that’s a completely new concept.” When students first enroll in school, a survey asks what language the child uses most frequently and if they answer anything other than English, they qualify for a language assessment. Based on scores, the student is slotted into the appropriate level in the English language development program. Elementary students with lower proficiency in English receive English language development to focus on basics.
Others with conversational skills but limited academic vocabulary receive co-teaching in the classroom. Integrated English language development, or co-teaching, Grisso explains, is when an ELD teacher and a classroom teacher teach a class together with both multilingual learners and native English-speaking students present. The classroom teacher focuses on the content learning and the ELD teacher focuses on the language learning. For example, in a math lesson the content teacher may be focusing on how to perform specific equations while the ELD teacher is focusing on the academic vocabulary of the components of the equation or the language needed to understand and learn the equation. For older students just learning English, it’s more difficult and requires more intense individual attention, which usually means attending one of the Newcomer Academy locations at East Central and Hale high schools, as well as Monroe Demonstration Academy. “There is some co-teaching at the secondary level, but those students are coming in at a more challenging time because the content is much higher and your timeline to meet standards to get their high school diploma is much shorter, so we do a lot of focused language development there,” Grisso says, adding that at the secondary level, multilingual learners are enrolled in dedicated English language development classes to support language development and may also receive some support through integrated ELD or co-taught classes. “About three years ago, we opened our Newcomer Academies, two at high schools, and this year we opened a third one at one of the middle schools to provide even more focused language development. That’s even an extra level of support beyond the classes.” Once proficient in English, many multilingual learners often end up academically surpassing their English-speaking peers, Grisso says. “Our ELD students, they’re not a challenge or a hardship,” Grisso says. “Our students bring amazing assets to the classroom.” TP
Most Oklahoma school districts do not have nearly as many resources as Tulsa Public Schools to devote to teaching English learners. For educators at those schools, the Teachers of English Learners Project helps them learn more effective techniques. Since its initial launch in February 2020, TELP, created by the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence in collaboration with several partners, has aided over 1,100 teachers from about 95 districts across the state with its online platform. TELP also has served as a valuable forum for teachers to share ideas and network with each other. Lisa Pryor, director of program development and innovation in the office of the vice president for outreach at the University of Oklahoma, is TELP’s project manager. She says elementary teachers were the target of the online pilot program designed by Norman-based software group NextThought with direction from highered and public-school educators. “If we can get (the students) when they’re younger, their secondary experience will be better,” she says. In September 2020, Pryor and her group created TELP’s online prep course to help teachers pass the state’s English-as-aSecond-Language Certification test. The course contains online lessons that work in tandem with the platform where numerous resources live, Pryor says. So far, more than 230 have completed the course. “The ESL certification exam is not easy,” Pryor says. “But it’s really important and valuable for people to have that.” TELP’s purpose is to increase the number of English learners who graduate from Oklahoma high schools, and it will take a while to determine its success, but Pryor says the partnership behind TELP is a great start. “When you’re trying to solve complex issues or problems, you need collaboration above all else because we’re all so much better when we’re together than when we operate in silos,” she says. “This was all funded by private donors through the Foundation, which had great interest in making sure teachers were able to access high-quality, 24/7 professional development that would have a direct impact on the students that they serve. And when teachers are more successful, students are more successful.” TulsaPeople.com
27
Private school guide Choices and considerations abound when it comes to private education in Tulsa. From class sizes to tuition to academic integrity, there are a lot of details and distinctions for a parent to weigh. Here is information on the Tulsa area’s private educational institutions.
Applications are now open for Fall 2022! Apply today at bishopkelley.org/admissions
COMPILED BY STAFF
L
A CATHOLIC EDUCATION IN THE LASALLIAN TRADITION
HE L PING FA MIL IE S BR IDGE T HE F IN A N C IA L GA P FOR K-12 P R IVAT E E DUCAT ION A P P LY F O R A S C H O L A R S H I P O R D O N AT E TO R E C E I V E TA X C R E D I T S
W W W. O S F K I D S . O R G
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TulsaPeople FEBRUARY 2022
SCHOOL
YEAR FOUNDED
GRADE LEVELS
UNIFORMS
FINANCIAL AID
TUITION (ANNUAL, UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED)
STUDENTTEACHER RATIO
SCHOOL OF THOUGHT OR AFFILIATION
TOTAL ENROLLMENT
BEFOREAND AFTERSCHOOL CARE
REGISTRATION/ TESTING INFORMATION
ALL SAINTS CATHOLIC SCHOOL 299 S. Ninth St., Broken Arrow | 918-251-3000 allsaintsba.com
1957
Pre-K-8th
Yes
Yes
$5,260-$6,010
18-1
Catholic
370
Yes
February
AUGUSTINE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 6310 E. 30th St. | 918-832-4600 acatulsa.org
1997
Pre-K-12th
Yes
Yes
$7,200-$8,700
12-1
Christian
180
Yes
New students can apply in March; August enrollment deadline; admission stops when classes are full.
BISHOP KELLEY HIGH SCHOOL 3905 S. Hudson Ave. | 918-627-3390 bishopkelley.org
1960
9th-12th
Yes
Yes
$10,500-$12,500
12-1
Catholic, Lasallian
850-900
No
If accepted, enrollment contracts are due March 1.
CASCIA HALL PREPARATORY SCHOOL 2520 S. Yorktown Ave. | 918-746-2600 (Upper School); 918-746-2616 (Middle School) casciahall.com
1926
6th-12th
Yes
Yes
$16,075
10-1
Catholic, Augustinian
535
After-school study hall
Call 918-746-2604 for tour, testing and application information.
CHRISTIAN MONTESSORI ACADEMY 3702 S. 90th E. Ave. | 918-628-6524 christianmontessoriacademy.org
2006
Pre-K-6th
No
No
$590-$825 per month
8-1
Montessori
70
Yes
Call 918-628-6524 to schedule a tour.
CROSSOVER PREPARATORY ACADEMY 5424 N. Madison Ave. | 918-986-7499 crossoverprep.org
2017
6th-12th grade boys; 6th-7th grade girls
Yes
Yes
$7,500
15-1
Christian
118
After-school extracurricular activities
Application deadline: April 1
HAPPY HANDS EDUCATION CENTER 8801 S. Garnett Road, Broken Arrow 918-893-4800 happyhands.org
1994
Age infant-6 for children who are deaf, hard of hearing or have communication disorders
No
Yes
Sliding-scale
3-1, infants; 5-1, all others
Christian
66
Yes
Ongoing.
HOLLAND HALL 5666 E. 81st St. | 918-481-1111 hollandhall.org
1922
Pre-K-12th
Yes
Yes
$7,700-$21,625
10-1
Episcopal
1,006
Yes
Ongoing. Details at hollandhall.org/admission.
1899
Pre-K-8th
Yes
Yes
$5,000-$7,500
12-1
Roman Catholic, Classical
153
Yes
Registration begins in January and continues until classes are full.
IMMANUEL LUTHERAN CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 400 N. Aspen Ave., Broken Arrow | 918-251-5422 ilcanews.org
2001
Pre-K-12th
Yes
Yes
$6,700-$7,700
12-1
Lutheran
300
Yes
Begins Feb. 1. Testing by appointment.
LEGACY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 1201 N. Elm Place, Broken Arrow | 918-286-6794 legacyba.org
2007
Pre-K-6th
Yes
Yes
$5,500-$6,500
8-1 to 16-1
Christian
97
Yes
Begins Feb. 1.
LINCOLN CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 1003 N. 129th E. Ave. | 918-234-8150 lincolnchristianschool.com
1997
Age 3-12th
Yes
Yes
$6,452- $8,598
3 year-old, 16-3; Pre-K, 16-2; K-4th, 18-1; 5th-6th, 20-1
Christian
944
Yes
Ongoing.
1918
Pre-K3-8th
Yes
Yes
$3,809-$8,343, ECDC; $5,671 (multiple child 12-1, pre-K; 22-1, discounts offered), tuition; K-8th all rates contingent on parishioner status.
Catholic
469
Yes
Begins in February. School tours by appointment.
METRO CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 6363 S. Trenton Ave. | 918-745-9868 metroca.com
1983
P3-12th
Yes
Yes
$6,900-$11,335
11-1
Christian
1,083
Yes
Call Admissions Office at 918-745-9868, ext. 155 or visitmetro.com.
MINGO VALLEY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 8304 S. 107th E. Ave. | 918-294-0404 mingovalley.org
1976
Pre-K-12th
Yes
Yes
$8,330-$10,160
10-1
Christian
338
Yes
Ongoing. School tours by appointment.
MISS HELEN’S PRIVATE SCHOOL 4849 S. Mingo Road | 918-622-2327 misshelens.com
1954
Pre-K-5th
Yes
No
$880-$900 monthly
10-1, preschool; 15-1, K-5th
N/A
140
Yes
Ongoing.
MIZEL JEWISH COMMUNITY DAY SCHOOL 2021 E. 71st St. | 918-494-0953 mizelschool.org
1975
Preschool-5th
Yes
Yes
$8,725.50
8-1
Jewish
36
After-care enrichment program
Ongoing.
MONTE CASSINO SCHOOL 2206 S. Lewis Ave. | 918-742-3364 montecassino.org
1926
Pre-K3-8th
Yes
Yes
$7,100-$12,500
16-1, elementary and middle; 8-1, early childhood learning center
Catholic
780
Yes
Call Brooke Jones at 918-746-4238 for open house dates, to schedule a tour or for your student to shadow.
PEACE ACADEMY 4620 S. Irvington Ave. | 918-627-1040 patulsa.org
1990
Pre-K-12th
Yes
Yes
$6,250, preschool; $5,850, nonpreschool
6-1 to 24-1
Islamic
215
N/A
Ongoing.
HOLY FAMILY CLASSICAL SCHOOL: THE PARISH SCHOOL OF HOLY FAMILY CATHEDRAL PARISH 820 S. Boulder Ave. | 918-582-0422 holyfamilyclassicalschool.org
MARQUETTE CATHOLIC SCHOOL
1519 S. Quincy Ave.; 1528 S. Quincy Ave. (Early Childhood Development Center) | 918-584-4631; 918-583-3334 (ECDC) marquetteschool.org
TulsaPeople.com
29
SCHOOL
YEAR FOUNDED
GRADE LEVELS
UNIFORMS
FINANCIAL AID
TUITION (ANNUAL, UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED)
STUDENTTEACHER RATIO
SCHOOL OF THOUGHT OR AFFILIATION
TOTAL ENROLLMENT
BEFOREAND AFTERSCHOOL CARE
REGISTRATION/ TESTING INFORMATION
PRIMROSE SCHOOL OF SOUTH TULSA 10185 S. 85th E. Ave. | 918-364-0021 primroseschools.com/schools/south-tulsa
1982
Infants-Pre-K
Pre-K only
No
$1,300 per month
9-1
N/A
175
After-school care
Ongoing.
REGENT PREPARATORY SCHOOL OF OKLAHOMA 8621 S. Memorial Drive | 918-663-1002 rpsok.org
2000
Pre-K-12th
Yes
Yes
$4,500-$10,950
14-1
Christian
550
No
Registration: November; testing: January-March.
Preschool-12th
No
Yes
$2,980-$8,870
16-1
Christian
1,015
Yes
Registration begins Dec. 1. Preschool applicants complete a 30-minute developmental screening. K-12th grade applicants complete an academic screening. Times vary. Screening appointments are made in the online application.
REJOICE CHRISTIAN SCHOOLS
10701 N. 129th E. Ave., Owasso, 918-272-7235 (preschool/ elementary); 13407 E. 106th St. N., Owasso, 918-516-0050 1992 (middle and high schools) | rejoiceschool.com
RIVERFIELD COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL 2433 W. 61st St. | 918-446-3553 riverfield.org
1984
Infants-12th
No
Yes
$11,685-$15,190
4-1 to 15-1, based on age
Nonsectarian, Reggio-inspired
610
Yes
New K-12th registration: March-August. Prospective preschool students can submit applications at any time. Enrollment for the upcoming school year typically offered by mid-May.
SAINT CATHERINE CATHOLIC SCHOOL 2515 W. 46th St. | 918-446-9756 saintcatherineschool.org
1927
Pre-K-8th
Yes
Yes
$4,760-$5,889
13-1
Catholic
169
Yes
February-July.
SAINT PIUS X SCHOOL 1717 S. 75th E. Ave. | 918-627-5367 school.spxtulsa.org
1957
Preschool-8th
Yes
Yes
$4,165-$6,317, preschool (3-4 year olds); $5,490, K-8 (Catholic); $7,075, K-8 (non-Catholic)
17-1
Catholic
350
Yes
Re-enrollment: February; registration is ongoing. Testing for students entering kindergarten by appointment.
SAINTS PETER AND PAUL SCHOOL 1428 N. 67th E. Ave. | 918-836-2165 peterandpaultulsa.org
1951
K-8th
Yes
Yes
$5,250 (multiple child discounts offered)
13-1
Catholic
170
Yes
Begins Feb. 1.
SCHOOL OF SAINT MARY 1365 E. 49th Place | 918-749-9361 schoolofsaintmary.com
1954
Pre K-8th
Yes
Yes
$2,500-$7,187
15-1, K-2; grades 3-8 have a maximum of 30 students with smaller classes for math and language arts
Roman Catholic
325
After-school care
As needed.
SOLID FOUNDATION PREPARATORY ARTS ACADEMY 4025 N. Hartford Ave. | 918-794-7800 2004 sfpaeagles.com
Pre-K-5th
Yes
No
$5,760, Pre-K; K-5th, tuition-free
12-1
Fine arts academy
75
After-school care
Enrollment and shadow dates in February and March.
14-1
Christian
540
Yes
February-August.
200
No
Ongoing.
SUMMIT CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 200 E. Broadway Ave., Broken Arrow 918-251-1997 summit.school
1987
Pre-K-12th
Yes
Yes
$6,422-$7,910
THE LITTLE LIGHT HOUSE 5120 E. 36th St. | 918-664-6746 littlelighthouse.org
1972
Birth-age 6
No
No
Tuition-free
THE SAN MIGUEL SCHOOL OF TULSA 2444 E. Admiral Blvd. | 918-728-7337 sanmigueltulsa.org
2004
6th-8th
Yes
Yes
$100 per month
12-1
Lasallian
72
Extended school day
February-August.
TOWN AND COUNTRY SCHOOL 8906 E. 34th St. | 918-296-3113 tandcschool.org
1961
1st-12th
No
Yes
$13,140-$14,730
6-1
Improving the lives of students with learning disabilities by nurturing academic, social and personal growth.
175
Yes
Ongoing.
TULSA ADVENTIST ACADEMY 900 S. New Haven Ave. | 918-834-1107 tulsaacademy.org
1916
Pre-K-12th
Yes
Yes
$5,200-$6,790
15-1
Christian
94
After-school care
Pre-enrollment in March. Testing by appointment.
UNDERCROFT MONTESSORI SCHOOL 3745 S. Hudson Ave. | 918-622-2890 undercroft.org
1964
Age 3-8th
No
Yes
$7,140-$12,200
11-1
Montessori
233
Yes
Ongoing.
UNIVERSITY SCHOOL AT THE UNIVERSITY OF TULSA 326 S. College Ave. | 918-631-5060 uschool.utulsa.edu
1982
Pre-K3-8th
No
Yes
$12,015-$13,245
6.5-1
Gifted
196
Yes
Ongoing.
VICTORY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 7700 S. Lewis Ave. | 918-491-7720 vcstulsa.org
1979
K3-12th
Yes
Yes
Check website.
12-1 to 17-1
Christian
900
Yes
Ongoing.
WRIGHT CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 11391 E. Admiral Place | 918-438-0922 wrightchristianacademy.com
1989
Pre-K3-12th
Yes
Yes
Check website.
9-1
Christian
250
Yes
Ongoing; tours by appointment.
30
TulsaPeople FEBRUARY 2022
Christian orientation; 12-3 with additional however, LLH is open to daily therapeutic all children with physical intervention from and mental challenges an interdisciplinary causing a developmental delay in two or more team areas of development
2520 SOUTH YORK TOWN AVENUE, TULSA • 918.746.2600 • CASCIAHALL.COM
Cascia Hall Preparatory School Tradition is the foundation of all aspects of life at Cascia Hall. Our storied legacy honors formal attire for classes, morning chapel meetings, and delicious meals prepared by our in-house chefs. Students become part of our educational success since 1926. Our innovative approach to teaching and learning engages and inspires today’s young women and men to lead meaningful lives grounded in the Augustinian values of Truth, Unity and Love. Attending seven classes a day and learning relational and life management skills is a cornerstone of our tradition. Honoring tradition at Cascia Hall teaches students that a respect for the past inspires excellence. YEAR FOUNDED: 1926 ENROLLMENT: 535 STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 9-to-1 GRADES: 6th-12th grade
AREAS OF ACADEMIC DISTINCTION Since 1926, our tradition has defined us, and we like it that way.
SHADOW AND TOUR TODAY TulsaPeople.com
31
6363 S. TRENTON AVE., TULSA • 918 -745 - 9868 • VISITMETRO.COM
Metro Christian Academy Located on a 60-acre campus in south Tulsa, Metro Christian Academy is an independent Christian school serving students age 3 through 12th grade. Metro Christian Academy’s early childhood classes are now enrolling for 2022-23. Students ages 3 and 4 grow and learn in the nurturing, faithbased environment at MCA. “Our Preschool and Pre-Kindergarten programs offer children an academic foundation in a fun and collaborative learning environment,” says Head of School Keith A. Currivean, Ph.D. Families of P3 children have enrollment options of two, three or five days per week, while Pre-K students can choose between three or five days per week. Both programs run 8:05 a.m.-2:45 p.m. with the option of participating in the extended day, after-school program. Pre-Kindergarten students also can choose either a traditional curriculum or a dual-language Spanish Immersion curriculum that continues through elementary school. Spanish Immersion is a proven method of educating children by immersing them in a second language. At Metro, reading/literacy, math, science, history and Bible are all taught in Spanish. Enrichment classes like art, music, PE, library, STEM, lunch, recess and chapel remain in English. Because second language acquisition is best at an early age, Spanish Immersion students may only enter the program in preschool, kindergarten, or first grade (space permitting). Learn more at metroearlychildhood.com. AREAS OF ACADEMIC DISTINCTION High school scholars are challenged through enrollment in on-level or honors courses, as well as any of the 15 advanced placement classes offered. College credit is also available through concurrent enrollment classes.
YEAR FOUNDED: 1983 ENROLLMENT: 1,025 STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 12-to-1 GRADES: P3-12th grade
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TulsaPeople FEBRUARY 2022
24 33 WEST 61ST STREET, TULSA • 918.4 46.3553 • RIVERFIELD.ORG
Riverfield Country Day School Riverfield is a nonsectarian school providing quality innovative education for children 8 weeks old through 12th grade. Riverfield is dedicated to academic excellence and college preparation while remaining true to its family-oriented atmosphere and whole student approach to education and learning. Small class sizes, along with the collaborative nature of the classrooms, provide opportunities for students to cultivate critical thinking, creativity, leadership, interpersonal skills, and the confidence needed for success today and tomorrow. Riverfield is home to the state’s first and most comprehensive school rock band program, with more than a dozen 4th-12th grade student bands. Through participation in the OSSAA, the school has achieved success in athletics, academics, extracurriculars and arts including State Championships in Speech and Debate four years in a row and in Academic Bowl for the past three years. Riverfield is accredited through the Independent Schools Association of the Southwest (ISAS), the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and the Oklahoma Private Schools Accreditation Commission. To learn more, please contact Director of Admissions Kacey Davenport at 918-446-3553 or kdavenport@riverfield.org.
YEAR FOUNDED: 1984
AREAS OF ACADEMIC DISTINCTION
ENROLLMENT: 615
Located on a 120-acre campus, Riverfield’s students experience the barnyard, hiking trails, gardens and athletic fields as an extension of the academic excellence found in the classroom.
STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 4-to-1 to 16-1 (based on age/grade level) GRADES: Infants-12th grade
918.446.3553 • 2433 W. 61st St., Tulsa, OK 74132 • riverfield.org
Exploring • Leading
EXCELLING
Varsity Basketball Wilson Tourney Champs Students Raised $100k at Run for Riverfield Drumline in Tulsa’s Veterans’ and Christmas Parades Small Class Sizes Provide Leadership Opportunities 120-Acre Campus Explored by All Ages Hosted Study Tours for Early Childhood Educators
Innovative Education for Infants through 12th Grade TulsaPeople.com
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5666 EAST 81ST STREET, TULSA • 918.481.1111 • HOLL ANDHALL.ORG
Holland Hall
Holland Hall celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2022, and its mission is the same as it was when it began — to provide a school “where each student may receive individual attention, within reach of any citizen of Tulsa.” Holland Hall’s intentionally small-scale approach assures teachers truly know who their students are and where their strengths and passions lie. “Students find it all at Holland Hall, and every student can find a place to excel,” says Director of Enrollment Management Justin Butler ’04. Holland Hall students see an average score of 1360 on the SAT and 27 on the ACT. Historically, 100% of graduates who apply are accepted to a four-year college and 90% of graduates receive some form of college scholarship.
YEAR FOUNDED: 1922 ENROLLMENT: 1,034 STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 10-to-1 GRADES: Early Pre-K–12th grade
Holland Hall students have opportunities beyond the classroom, too. The Upper School offers 62 different art courses, 18 individual and team sports and more than 30 clubs. A Holland Hall education may be more affordable than expected. Pre-K tuition is up to $3,000 less per year than comparable local programs, and 31% of all students receive some form of tuition assistance. “We believe the best way to learn what makes Holland Hall different is to visit our 162-acre campus and see for yourself,” Butler says. In addition to private tours, the school offers open houses on “Welcome Wednesdays.” To learn more, visit hollandhall.org/admission or email justin.butler@hollandhall.org.
AREAS OF ACADEMIC DISTINCTION Holland Hall is the only Cum Laude School in Tulsa. Colleges see having a Cum Laude Society chapter as a critical mark of academic excellence.
EXPLORE our Six age-appropriate playgrounds 162 acres
Daily art and PE classes
Come tour our PreK and Primary School spaces. Now enrolling students as young as 3. For more information call 918-879-4755 or visit hollandhall.org.
2206 S. LEWIS AVE., TULSA • 918 -742- 336 4 • MONTECASSINO.ORG
Monte Cassino School
Since 1926, Monte Cassino, an independent Benedictine Catholic school, has been committed to providing an exceptional education while nurturing the whole student. The PreK3– 8th grade school features a campus-wide average class size of 17 and an 8-to-1 student/teacher ratio in the Early Childhood Learning Center. The dedicated faculty allows Monte Cassino to provide a comprehensive educational experience. The school, located at 2206 S. Lewis Ave., offers the traditional subjects of reading, writing, math and the sciences and also provides excellent programs in music, art, foreign language, STEM and physical education. Students are encouraged to take risks and explore concepts while developing learning strategies. The Monte Cassino educational experience is complemented by a co-curricular program of over 25 clubs and offerings such as robotics, coding, chess, Makerspaces, musical theater, Academic Bowl, dissection lab, MCTV Broadcasting, book clubs, STEAM and more. Because experiential learning is important, the school offers unique and learning-based field trips, service
days and project work. The Monte Cassino athletics department offers 11 sports, ongoing development clinics and camps. Monte Cassino holds many state championships in basketball, volleyball and Academic Bowl. Monte Cassino’s commitment to Catholic instruction focuses on eight universal Benedictine values: Love of Learning, Seek God, Prayer, Community, Simplicity and Balance, Hospitality, Service and Stewardship. These values enable students of all faiths to build life skills and grow in their own spirituality while serving the community around them. Monte Cassino’s rigorous, challenging and focused curriculum helps develop well-rounded and morally-grounded students who are prepared for high school and life beyond. Over $1 million in financial assistance is available. Come learn how a Monte Cassino education can make a difference for your family. To schedule a tour and for more information, contact Brooke Jones at: bjones@montecassino.org or at 918-746-4238.
YEAR FOUNDED: 1926 ENROLLMENT: 780 STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 8-to-1, ECLC; 16-to-1, elementary and middle schools GRADES: PreK3–8th grade
AREAS OF ACADEMIC DISTINCTION Monte Cassino School is accredited by the Oklahoma State Department of Education and Cognia.
PreK-8th Grade
It's fun to learn here!
Middle School Open Houses January 27, 9:00am February 10, 9:00am February 24, 9:00am
FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT MONTECASSINO.ORG OR CONTACT BROOKE JONES, 918-746-4238
CODING ATHLETICS 11 SPORTS TINKER CAD FAITHPreK-8th FORMATIONgrade ACADEMIC BOWL STUDENT LEADERSHIP MCTV26 BROADCASTING MUSIC, ART HONORS PROGRAM FRENCH, SPANISH, LATIN ADVANCED MATH SOCIAL EMOTIONAL LEARNING PERSONAL FINANCE MUSICAL THEATER REACH ACADEMIC SUPPORT DISSECTION LAB PLUS DOZENS OF CLUBS AND AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS NOW ENROLLING FOR FALL 2022 Ask about the Saint Scholarship for incoming 6th graders. Financial Aid is available.
montecassinoschool
MonteCassinoSchool
Come see how a Monte Cassino education can help your family. Financial assistance is available.
326 S. COLLEGE AVE., TULSA • 918 - 631- 5060 • USCHOOL.UTULSA.EDU
The University of Tulsa University School
At University School, gifted and talented students are the focus of the full school program that ranges from age 3 through eighth grade. University School provides an emotionally supportive and intellectually challenging learning environment that rewards both creativity and socially responsible behavior. “We believe that a person learns best in a supportive, but kindly firm, atmosphere where they are actively involved and have some control over what occurs,” says Director Debra Price. “We know each student is an individual and therefore we do not expect uniform educational results.” With a total enrollment of 190 students and a 6.1-to-1 student/ faculty ratio, teachers can focus on the success of each student. University School values are: The pursuit of excellence in scholarship, leadership and citizenship; the development of critical thinking, problem solving and responsibility; an environment that engages and empowers students to explore ideas prompting discovery and stimulating creativity; a culture where faculty actively model the philosophy and benefits of life-
long learning; and a community of acceptance that understands and celebrates diversity and shares cross-cultural values. University School sponsors several opportunities for students to exhibit academic and artistic projects. The annual drama festival is a chance for students to write, produce and perform plays. Students can exhibit their creative projects and interact with professionals in their own academic interest area at the Creative Producers exhibit held each spring. The USchool Ambassadors program allows students to serve as leaders within the school community. Another essential component of the curriculum involves making use of the school’s relationship with the University of Tulsa. The University Connection consists of TU Exploration, in which children may visit classes and interact with professors, staff and TU students, as well as attend exhibits and utilize university facilities. The relationship with the university provides USchool with tremendous unique resources that few schools can match.
AREAS OF ACADEMIC DISTINCTION
YEAR FOUNDED: 1982 ENROLLMENT: 190 STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 6.1-to-1 GRADES: PreK3-8th grade
University School students are gifted, creating a unique environment of high academic standards. Presentations about University School have been made in numerous states, Canada and Europe. Articles about the University School curriculum have been published in leading national magazines, newspapers and journals.
Students who fully engage in the program are guaranteed to find either an entry level job or be accepted into a post-graduate program within six months of graduation or their first six hours of graduate school at TU are free!
the university of
Gather Here. Go Far.
@ Oklahoma's Immersive Learning Institution Affordable tuition; 300+ scholarship designations Workforce development training 80+ bachelor's and master's degrees Continuing education courses & certificates Military tuition assistance available
Apply now at Go2NSU.com
ADVANCING CAREERS. IMPROVING LIVES. SERVING TULSA. If transferring colleges to finish your bachelor’s degree in Tulsa is part of your plan, talk to us. OSU-Tulsa’s academic advisors work almost exclusively with transfer students, so they can help you save time and money earning your degree. At OSU-Tulsa, you’ll find: · In-demand majors including accounting, aviation, psychology, engineering and computer science · Advanced research facilities with world-renowned faculty · Transfer Maps that show the path from two-year school to OSU bachelor’s degree to career
Learn more at tulsa.okstate.edu/future
FOUR MAIN CAMPUSES THROUGHOUT TULSA • 918 - 595 - 8000 • TULSACC.EDU
Tulsa Community College What makes Tulsa Community College the smart choice for higher education? Less debt and more value. With degrees that easily transfer to the university of your choice and work-ready degrees/certificates that give you the training to step into a career, you’ll have a brighter future with more opportunity and earning potential. In fact, 65% of TCC students graduate debt free. As the third largest college in the state, TCC has served the Tulsa region for more than five decades and offers a variety of educational opportunities to match your lifestyle and needs – from online, online live, in-person and blended formats. High school seniors living in Tulsa County can take advantage of TCC’s Tulsa Achieves scholarship, which offers up to 63 hours of college credit at no cost. TCC also offers an honors program and more than 60 different student organizations. Get started today. We’ll help. AREAS OF ACADEMIC DISTINCTION Prepare for a wide array of rapidly changing careers in computers, cybersecurity, and business in our School of Business & Information Technology or start a rewarding career in the field of health sciences in our School of Health Sciences. Our School of Liberal Arts & Communication gives you the opportunity to explore a path that leads to a strong community and we offer a robust collection of STEM-related programs in the growing science, technology, biotechnology, engineering, and aviation/aerospace sectors through our School of Science & Mathematic. And, in our School of Visual & Performing Arts, you’ll set your future in motion by preparing for a bright career in the arts. TCC’s Work Ready programs are designed to put you on the fast track to an in-demand career, whether you are entering the workforce for the first time or need to pivot and retrain. Whether it’s Work Ready degrees, certificates, or transferring your Tulsa Tech credits, TCC has an option for you.
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TulsaPeople FEBRUARY 2022
YEAR FOUNDED: 1970 UNDERGRADUATE ENROLLMENT: 21,500 NUMBER OF UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES OFFERED: 121 degree and certificate programs STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 20:1
COLLEGE GUIDE OKLAHOMA COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES OFFER COUNTLESS OPPORTUNITIES FOR FURTHERING EDUCATION. COMPILED BY ANNE BROCKMAN
BACONE COLLEGE 2299 Old Bacone Road, Muskogee 918-683-4581 | bacone.edu Type: 4-year, private Enrollment: 321 Student/faculty ratio: 11-to-1 Number of associate degree programs: 8 Number of bachelor’s degree programs: 13 Most popular academic programs: Business, exercise science and American Indian studies Campus housing: Yes Online classes/programs: Yes Campus setting: Suburban Year founded: 1880 CARL ALBERT STATE COLLEGE 1507 S. McKenna, Poteau; 918-647-1200 1601 S. Opdyke, Sallisaw; 918-775-6977 carlalbert.edu Type: 2-year, public Enrollment: 1,800 Student/faculty ratio: 21-to-1 Number of associate degree programs: 21 Number of certificates: 9 Most popular academic programs: Allied health, business administration, pre-elementary education, general studies, nursing Campus housing: Yes Online classes/programs: Yes Campus setting: Rural Year founded: 1933 COLLEGE OF THE MUSCOGEE NATION 2170 Raven Circle, Okmulgee 918-549-2800 | cmn.edu Type: 2-year, public Enrollment: 201 Student/faculty ratio: 8-to-1 Number of associate degree programs: 6 Most popular academic programs: General studies, tribal services Campus housing: Yes Online classes/programs: Yes Campus setting: Rural Year founded: 2004
APPLY TODAY OSUIT.EDU
CONNORS STATE COLLEGE 700 College Road, Warner; 918-463-2931 2501 N. 41st St. E., Muskogee; 918-687-6747 connorsstate.edu Type: 2-year, public Enrollment: 2,477 Student/faculty ratio: 23-to-1 Number of associate degree/certificate programs: 25 Most popular academic programs: Agriculture, business administration, pre-nursing, nursing and general studies Campus housing: Yes
Online classes/programs: Yes Campus setting: Rural Year founded: 1908 EAST CENTRAL UNIVERSITY 1100 E. 14th St., Ada 580-332-8000 | ecok.edu Type: 4-year, public Enrollment: 3,600 Student/faculty ratio: 18-to-1 Number of bachelor’s degree programs: 66 Number of advanced degree programs: 17 Most popular academic programs: Nursing, business administration, biology, kinesiology and computer science Campus housing: Yes Online classes/programs: Yes Campus setting: Rural Year founded: 1909 EASTERN OKLAHOMA STATE COLLEGE 1301 E. Main St., Wilburton; 918-465-2361 1802 E. College Ave., McAlester; 918-302-3607 eosc.edu Type: 2-year, public Enrollment: 1,352 Student/faculty ratio: 22-to-1 Number of associate degree programs: 40+ Most popular academic programs: Nursing, business administration, agriculture, life science, respiratory therapy Campus housing: Yes Online classes/programs: Yes Campus setting: Rural Year founded: 1908 LANGSTON UNIVERSITY 701 Sammy Davis Jr. Drive, Langston; 405-466-2231 6700 N. Martin Luther King Blvd., Oklahoma City; 405-530-7500 914 N. Greenwood Ave., Tulsa; 918-877-8100 langston.edu Type: 4-year, public Enrollment: 3,000 Student/faculty ratio: 17-to-1 Number of associate degree programs: 6 Number of bachelor’s degree programs: 24 Number of advanced degree programs: 4 (master’s); 1 (doctoral) Most popular academic programs: General studies; nursing; health, physical education and recreation; psychology; management Campus housing: Yes (Langston campus) Online classes/programs: Yes Campus setting: Rural/Urban Year founded: 1897
TulsaPeople.com
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MID-AMERICA CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY 3500 S.W. 119th St., Oklahoma City 405-691-3800 | macu.edu Type: 4-year, private Enrollment: 2,083 (1,600 undergraduate) Student/faculty ratio: 13-to-1 Number of bachelor’s degree programs: 171 Number of advanced degree programs: 27 Most popular academic programs: Business and ethics, psychology (undergradate); counseling, business (graduate) Campus housing: No Online classes/programs: Yes Campus setting: Urban Year founded: 1953 MURRAY STATE COLLEGE One Murray Campus, Tishomingo 580-387-7000 | mscok.edu Type: 2-year, public Enrollment: 2,133 Student/faculty ratio: 16-to-1 Number of associate degree programs: 56 Most popular academic programs: Nursing, gunsmithing technology, physical therapy assistant, occupational therapist assistant, veterinary nursing Campus housing: Yes Online classes/programs: Yes Campus setting: Rural Year founded: 1908 NORTHEASTERN OKLAHOMA A&M COLLEGE 200 I St. N.E., Miami 918-540-6203 | neo.edu Type: 2-year, public Enrollment: 1,230 Student/faculty ratio: 22-to-1 Number of associate degree programs: 40 Most popular academic programs: Agriculture, general studies, nursing, business and technology, physical therapy assistant Campus housing: Yes Online classes/programs: Yes Campus setting: Rural Year founded: 1919 NORTHEASTERN STATE UNIVERSITY 600 N. Grand Ave., Tahlequah; 918-456-5511 2400 W. Shawnee St., Muskogee; 918-683-0040 3100 New Orleans St., Broken Arrow; 918-449-6000 nsuok.edu Type: 4-year, public Enrollment: 7,349 (6,004 undergraduate) Student/faculty ratio: 17-to-1 Number of bachelor’s degree programs: 59 Number of advanced degree programs: 26
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TulsaPeople FEBRUARY 2022
Most popular academic programs: Psychology, nursing, accounting, cell and molecular biology, health and human performance Campus housing: Yes Online classes/programs: Yes Campus setting: Suburban Year founded: 1846 NORTHERN OKLAHOMA COLLEGE 1220 E. Grand Ave., Tonkawa; 580-628-6200 615 N. Monroe St., Stillwater; 580-628-6900 100 S. University Ave., Enid; 480-242-6300 noc.edu Type: 2-year, public Enrollment: 3,374 Student/faculty ratio: 17-to-1 Number of associate degree programs: 49 Most popular academic programs: Business; education; health, physical education and recreation Campus housing: Tonkawa, Enid Online classes/programs: Yes Campus setting: Rural Year founded: 1901 OKLAHOMA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY 500 W. University, Shawnee 405-585-4000 | okbu.edu Type: 4-year, private Enrollment: 1,510 (1,430 undergraduate) Student/faculty ratio: 14-to-1 Number of bachelor’s degree programs: 80 Number of advanced degree programs: 4 Most popular academic programs: Nursing, education, business, communication studies, theological studies Campus housing: Yes Online classes/programs: Yes Campus setting: Suburban Year founded: 1910 OKLAHOMA CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY 2501 E. Memorial Road, Edmond 405-425-5000 | oc.edu Type: 4-year, private Enrollment: 2,359 (1,901 undergraduate) Student/faculty ratio: 13-to-1 Number of bachelor’s degree programs: 85+ Number of advanced degree programs: 25+ Most popular academic programs: Mechanical engineering, nursing, cybersecurity, gaming and animation, computer science Campus housing: Yes Online classes/programs: Yes Campus setting: Suburban Year founded: 1950
OKLAHOMA CITY COMMUNITY COLLEGE 7777 S. May Ave., Oklahoma City 405-682-1611 | occc.edu Type: 2-year, public Enrollment: 17,021 Student/faculty ratio: 23-to-1 Number of associate degree/certification programs: 88 Most popular academic programs: Diversified studies, business, nursing, occupational therapy assistant, computer science Campus housing: No Online classes/programs: Yes Campus setting: Urban Year founded: 1972 OKLAHOMA CITY UNIVERSITY 2501 N. Blackwelder, Oklahoma City 405-208-5000 | okcu.edu Type: 4-year, private Enrollment: 2,293 (1,226 undergraduate) Student/faculty ratio: 11-to-1 Number of bachelor’s degree programs: 73 Number of advanced degree programs: 30 (master’s); 9 (doctoral); 1 juris doctorate Most popular academic programs: Liberal arts, performing arts, law, business, health professions Campus housing: Yes Online classes/programs: Yes Campus setting: Urban Year founded: 1904 OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY 107 Whitehurst, Stillwater 405-744-5000 | okstate.edu Type: 4-year, public Enrollment: 24,649 (20,323 undergraduate) Student/faculty ratio: 20-to-1 Number of bachelor’s degree programs: 200 Number of advanced degree programs: 79 (master’s); 45 (doctoral) Most popular academic programs: Business administration, agriculture, engineering Campus housing: Yes Online classes/programs: Yes Campus setting: Suburban Year founded: 1890 OSU CENTER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 1111 W. 17th St., Tulsa 918-582-1972 | medicine.okstate.edu Type: 4-year, public Enrollment: 1,219 Student/faculty ratio: 3-to-1 Number of advanced degree programs: 14 Most popular academic programs: College of Osteopathic Medicine, School of Health Care Administration
Campus housing: No Online classes/programs: Yes Campus setting: Urban Year founded: 1972 OSU INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY 1801 E. Fourth St., Okmulgee 918-293-4976 | osuit.edu Type: 2-year, with some 4-year; public Enrollment: 2,331 Student/faculty ratio: 17-to-1 Number of associate degree programs: 33 Number of bachelor’s of technology programs: 5 Most popular academic programs: Allied health sciences, information technologies, high-voltage line technician, air conditioning and refrigeration technology, engineering technologies Campus housing: Yes Online classes/programs: Yes Campus setting: Rural Year founded: 1946 OSU OKC 900 N. Portland, Oklahoma City 405-947-4421 | osuokc.edu Type: 4-year, public Enrollment: 4,949 Student/faculty ratio: 20-to-1 Number of bachelor’s degree programs: 1 Most popular academic programs: Nursing Campus housing: No Online classes/programs: Yes Campus setting: Urban Year founded: 1961 OSU TULSA 700 N. Greenwood Ave., Tulsa 918-594-8000 | tulsa.okstate.edu Type: 4-year, public Enrollment: 2,568 Student/faculty ratio: Number of bachelor’s degree programs: 25 Number of advanced degree programs: 10 (master’s); 4 (doctoral) Most popular academic programs: Management, marketing, finance, mechanical engineering, accounting Campus housing: No Online classes/programs: Yes Campus setting: Urban Year founded: 1999 OKLAHOMA WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY 2201 Silver Lake Road, Bartlesville 918-333-6828 | okwu.edu Type: 4-year, private Enrollment: 1,100 (650 undergraduate) Student/faculty ratio: 9-to-1 Number of associate degree programs: 6 Number of bachelor’s degree programs: 38 Number of advanced degree programs: 6
Most popular academic programs: Business, criminal justice, nursing Campus housing: Yes Online classes/programs: Yes Campus setting: Suburban Year founded: 1905 ORAL ROBERTS UNIVERSITY 7777 S. Lewis Ave. 918-495-6161 | oru.edu Type: 4-year, private Enrollment: 4,753 (4,072 undergraduate) Student/faculty ratio: 17-to-1 Number of bachelor’s degree programs: 141 Number of advanced degree programs: 29 Most popular academic programs: Ministry and leadership, nursing, psychology, business administration, engineering Campus housing: Yes Online classes/programs: Yes Campus setting: Urban Year founded: 1963 PHILLIPS THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY 901 N. Mingo Road 918-610-8303 | ptstulsa.edu Type: Graduate seminary Enrollment: 167 Student/faculty ratio: 12-to-1 Number of advanced degree programs: 5 Most popular academic programs: Master of Divinity, Doctor of Ministry Campus housing: No Online classes/programs: Yes Campus setting: Urban Year founded: 1906 ROGERS STATE UNIVERSITY 1701 W. Will Rogers Blvd., Claremore; 918-343-7777 401 S. Dewey Ave., Bartlesville; 918-338-8000 2155 Highway 69A, Pryor; 918-825-6117 rsu.edu Type: 4-year, public Enrollment: 3,198 (3,078 undergraduate) Student/faculty ratio: 16-to-1 Number of associate degree programs: 11 Number of bachelor’s degree programs: 20 Number of advanced degree programs: 2 Most popular academic programs: Business, nursing, biology, social sciences, fine art Campus housing: Yes Online classes/programs: Yes Campus setting: Suburban Year founded: 1909
ROSE STATE COLLEGE 6420 E. 15th, Midwest City 405-733-7673 | rose.edu Type: 2-year, public Enrollment: 6,899 Student/faculty ratio: 21-to-1 Number of associate degree programs: 60 Most popular academic programs: Nursing, business/information technologies, dental hygiene, engineering, aerospace Campus housing: Yes Online classes/programs: Yes Campus setting: Suburban Year founded: 1970
SOUTHWESTERN CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY 7210 N.W. 39th Expressway, Bethany 405-789-7661 | swcu.edu Type: 4-year, private Enrollment: 486 (458 undergraduate) Student/faculty ratio: 12-to-1 Number of bachelor’s degree programs: 21 Number of advanced degree programs: 3 Most popular academic program: Business administration Campus housing: Yes Online classes/programs: Yes Campus setting: Suburban Year founded: 1946
SEMINOLE STATE COLLEGE 2701 Boren Blvd., Seminole 405-382-9950 | sscok.edu Type: 2-year, public Enrollment: 1,476 Student/faculty ratio: 16-to-1 Number of associate degree programs: 5, plus 18 transfer associate degree programs Most popular academic programs: Health sciences, business, nursing, liberal studies, criminal justice Campus housing: Yes Online classes/programs: Yes Campus setting: Rural Year founded: 1931
TULSA COMMUNITY COLLEGE Metro campus, 909 S. Boston Ave. Northeast campus, 3727 E. Apache St. Southeast campus, 10300 E. 81st St. West campus, 7505 W. 41st St. Riverside community campus and aviation center, 112 W. Beechcraft Drive Owasso community campus, 10800 N. 140th E. Ave., Owasso 918-595-8000 | tulsacc.edu Type: 2-year, public Enrollment: 21,523 Student/faculty ratio: 15-to-1 Number of associate degree/certification programs: 121 Most popular academic programs: Business administration, liberal arts, enterprise development, pre-nursing and nursing Campus housing: No Online classes/programs: Yes Campus setting: Urban Year founded: 1970
SOUTHEASTERN OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY 425 W. University Blvd., Durant 580-745-2000 | se.edu Type: 4-year, public Enrollment: 5,607 (3,274 undergraduate) Student/faculty ratio: 24-to-1 Number of bachelor’s degree programs: 51 Number of advanced degree programs: 13 Most popular academic programs: Aviation, elementary education, business and leadership, fisheries and wildlife Campus housing: Yes Online classes/programs: Yes Campus setting: Urban Year founded: 1909 SOUTHERN NAZARENE UNIVERSITY 6729 N.W. 39th Expressway, Bethany 405-789-6400 | snu.edu Type: 4-year, private Enrollment: 2,208 (1,529 undergraduate) Student/faculty ratio: 14-to-1 Number of bachelor’s degree programs: 43 Number of advanced degree programs: 10 Most popular academic programs: Kinesiology, bio-chemistry, education, graphic design, business Campus housing: Yes Online classes/programs: Yes Campus setting: Suburban Year founded: 1899
UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL OKLAHOMA 100 N. University Drive, Edmond 405-974-2000 | uco.edu Type: 4-year, public Enrollment: 13,250 (11,817 undergraduate) Student/faculty ratio: 16-to-1 Number of bachelor’s degree programs: 119 Number of advanced degree programs: 80 Most popular academic programs: Psychology, forensic science, nursing, criminal justice, finance Campus housing: Yes Online classes/programs: Yes Campus setting: Suburban Year founded: 1890 UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA 660 Parrington Oval, Norman 405-325-0311 | ou.edu Type: 4-year, public Enrollment: 28,052 (21,162 undergraduate)
Student/faculty ratio: 16.7-to-1 Number of bachelor’s degree programs: 124 Number of advanced degree programs: 107 (master’s); 56 (doctoral); 1 (professional) Most popular undergraduate programs: Biology, psychology, finance, health and exercise science, marketing Campus housing: Yes Online classes/programs: Yes Campus setting: Suburban Year founded: 1890 OU HEALTH SCIENCES CENTER 1105 Stonewall Ave., Oklahoma City 405-271-2332 | ouhsc.edu Type: 4-year, public Enrollment: 3,238 (853 undergraduate) Student/faculty ratio: 8-to-1 Most popular academic programs: Medicine M.D., allied health sciences, Nursing B.S.N. Campus housing: No. Online classes/programs: Yes Campus setting: Urban Year founded: 1910 OU TULSA 4502 E. 41st St. 918-660-3000 | ou.edu/tulsa Type: 4-year, public Enrollment: 1,149 Student/faculty ratio: 16-to-1 Number of bachelor’s degree programs: 7 Number of advanced degree programs: 15 (master’s); 9 (doctoral) Most popular academic programs: Social work, undergraduate nursing, physician assistant, allied health Campus housing: No Online classes/programs: Yes Campus setting: Urban Year founded: 1957 UNIVERSITY OF TULSA 800 S. Tucker Drive 918-631-2000 | utulsa.edu Type: 4-year, private Enrollment: 3,837 (2,728 undergraduate) Student/faculty ratio: 9-to-1 Number of bachelor’s degree programs: 46 Number of advanced degree programs: 28 (master’s); 15 (doctoral) Most popular academic programs: Mechanical engineering, computer science, biology, psychology, exercise and sports science, nursing, finance Campus housing: Yes Online classes/programs: Yes Campus setting: Urban Year founded: 1894 Institutions are identified on the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education website, okhighered.org. TulsaPeople.com
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1701 W. WILL ROGERS BLVD., CL AREMORE; 918 - 34 3 -7777 • 401 S. DEWEY AVE., BARTLESVILLE; 918 - 338 - 8000 • 2155 HIGHWAY 69A, PRYOR; 918 - 825 - 611 • RSU.EDU
Rogers State University
Want to receive a high-quality college education without being burdened by large student loan debt? Last year 39% of Rogers State University seniors graduated without student loan debt accumulated at RSU. The Claremorebased university has been recognized by national organizations as having one of the region’s lowest student debt loads for graduating seniors. This is driven by RSU’s affordable tuition and the focus of RSU and the RSU Foundation on making scholarships and financial aid available for deserving students. RSU offers unique degree programs (military history, game development, etc.) along with unmatched facilities, including an on-campus nature reserve, research land dedicated for biological and social sciences, a behavioral sciences lab and more. Programs in medicine are among the state’s leaders, and nursing graduates are among the highest in demand in the state. With just over 3,000 students, RSU offers small class sizes with a student-teacher ratio of 16-to-1, allowing students to receive mentoring from faculty who are dedicated to student
success. According to RSU’s Class of 2020 graduates, 94% reported they were satisfied to very satisfied with their overall RSU experience. RSU is the Tulsa metro area’s only public university with oncampus housing, allowing students to fully participate in the traditional college experience. Campus residents enjoy a variety of amenities including a swimming pool, sand volleyball court, outdoor gathering spaces with a fire pit, movie rooms, themed housing areas and nearby hiking/walking trails. RSU has more than 40 student organizations that promote involvement and leadership. The school also competes as a member of the NCAA Division II and fields 12 men’s and women’s teams, along with cheer and dance teams. For those who want to stay home, RSU Online offers a variety of bachelor’s and associate degree programs entirely online. RSU’s online program has received national recognition for affordability and value.
YEAR FOUNDED: 1909 UNDERGRADUATE ENROLLMENT: 3,078 STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 16-TO-1 NUMBER OF ADVANCED DEGREE PROGRAMS: 2 NUMBER OF BACHELOR’S DEGREE PROGRAMS: 20 NUMBER OF ASSOCIATE DEGREE PROGRAMS: 11
AREAS OF ACADEMIC DISTINCTION Business, nursing, biology, social sciences, fine art
SMALL CLASSES. VIBRANT COMMUNITY. SUCCESSFUL GRADUATES. Rogers State University is the Tulsa-area university offering a true college experience. We are personal in every aspect– small classes, attentive professors, a close-knit community, and hands-on learning. RSU has all the opportunities found at the biggest schools, in an environment focused on the individual. At RSU you’ll find your fit and thrive. Top 10 In-demand Degrees I 30+ Student Organizations I Affordable Tuition
CLAREMORE | BARTLESVILLE | PRYOR | ONLINE
www.rsu.edu | 800-256-7511 RogersStateU | #HillcatNation
CARE TO SHARE? Desserts to tempt you and your dinner partner this season Story by Natalie Mikles Photos by Michelle Pollard
Saying yes to dessert after dinner can feel like a guilty pleasure. You might be prepared to pass until the waiter reads through the menu, and then you and your partner give each other a conspiratorial look of, “Should we?” Our favorite date-night or dinner-with-friends desserts are shareable. Not a dainty sliver of lemon tart, but something that’s easily shared with two forks. There’s only one rule: No double-dipping. We picked some of our favorites: desserts that create coziness and conversation, desserts that will make your eyes widen when brought to the table, desserts that will have you and your dinner date scraping the plate for the last sweet bite.
Oreo Cheesecake Brownie
This rich brownie dessert is certainly big enough to share. Order one for the table and enough forks as you have people. Everyone will dig in to this concoction of an Oreo brownie made with crushed cookies, cream cheese and chocolate. It’s messy in the best way, topped with whipped cream and strawberries.
Andolini’s
1552 E. 15TH ST. | 500 RIVERWALK TERRACE, SUITE 100, JENKS 222 S. MAIN ST., BROKEN ARROW | 12140 E. 96TH ST. N., OWASSO
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Creme Brulee Cheesecake Two desserts you’ll often find on dessert menus — cheesecake and creme brulee — come together in one of the most amazing desserts in town. It’s no wonder this dessert resides at a special occasion restaurant. Mahogany’s creme brulee cheesecake is a perfect way to end a special meal. It’s served with the crust base on the bottom and the narrow tip of the cheesecake pointing upward. But it’s the slightly crisp brulee coating against the creamy cheesecake that makes it so wonderful. The double-size slice is made for sharing.
Mahogany Prime Steakhouse 4840 E. 61ST ST.
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It might be on the breakfast menu, but the cinnamon roll at Brookside Diner is certainly dessert worthy. When you don’t feel like dressing up and want to stay comfy, this is a great place to stop in for cheeseburgers or diner-style breakfast served all day. Or just come for coffee and a cinnamon roll that’s definitely big enough to share. This classic cinnamon roll is topped with a sweet frosting.
Brookside Diner 4510 S. PEORIA AVE.
Ice Cream Turtle Pie This fabulous dessert is nearly the size of person’s
Toast Your Own S’mores Cozy up with European-style coffees, espressos and chocolates at the hidden gem that is Cricket and Fig. It stays open until 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday nights — a great time to stop in after dinner for s’mores like you’ve never had before. Everything from the marshmallows and chocolates to even the graham crackers are homemade here. This is a dessert made for two, perfect for a date night. Making your own s’mores is interactive and, if it’s a first date, a little flirty. Order this one and have fun assembling this most delicious, classic combination.
head — you’ll have enough to share and then some. A sturdy crust is generously filled with vanilla ice cream drizzled with caramel and a hard chocolate shell, all topped with macadamia nuts. When it comes to the table, heads will turn.
Bull in the Alley 11 E. RECONCILIATION WAY
Cricket and Fig
5800 S. LEWIS AVE., SUITE 131 TulsaPeople.com
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Pastel de Chocolate When you want a little “something chocolate” after dinner, this one is perfect. The star of this dessert is the moist, dark chocolate cake that is generously topped with a Mexican vanilla ice cream. The chocolate rum sauce really rounds it out, too. It’s everything you love about an ice cream sundae and warm brownies together.
Madre’s Mexican Kitchen 6823 S. YALE AVE.
Bananas Foster Fondue There are few dining spots more intimate than the Melting Pot, where snuggling up for cheesy fondue is part of the experience. Same goes for its desserts, different varieties of melted chocolates with fruit, cookies and cakes for dipping. Our favorite is the bananas foster: white chocolate
Beignets
melted with bananas and dulce de leche that’s then flambeed tableside. It’s a dramatic presentation and lots of fun for sharing.
The Melting Pot
After a rich dinner at Nola’s, you might just want a little something sweet to share after the meal. The beignets are it. These little New Orleans-style sweet fritters are fried and coated with powdered sugar and served warm with a spiced rum sauce. No need for forks, so it’s perfect for passing around the table so everyone can have a bite.
300 RIVERWALK TERRACE, SUITE 190, JENKS
Nola’s
1334 E. 15TH ST. TP 50
TulsaPeople FEBRUARY 2022
CHEERS!
BOUQUET OF ROSÉS JAMES ANDREWS, WINE MANAGER AND SOMMELIER AT PARKHILL’S SOUTH LIQUORS AND WINE, GIVES FOUR RECOMMENDATIONS FOR ROSÉ THIS VALENTINE’S DAY. BY ANNE BROCKMAN BARNARD GRIFFIN-ROSÉ OF SANGIOVESE With deeper color and flavor, this Columbia Valley dry rosé bursts with strawberry, cherry and pineapple with good acidity and depth of flavor. $13.99
BODEGAS OLIVARES-ROSADO This Spanish version of rosé is a great value Garnacha/Grenache that expresses berry and melon flavors with bright notes of citrus. $11.99
FLEURS DE PRAIRIE A blend of Grenache, Syrah and Cinsault grapes in a salmon pink color with light watermelon and strawberry flavors, crisp acidity and a scent of rose petals. It’s an example of a classic, dry French rosé from the south of France. $19.99
MICHELLE POLLARD
DOMAINE DE LA PREBENDE-BEAUJOLAIS ROSÉ Made exclusively from the Gamay grape, this French rosé hails from the Beaujolais region and carries raspberry and strawberry notes with good acidity, scents of peach and banana, and a soft, rich texture. $18.99
TulsaPeople.com
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WHERE TO Greg Robbins performs at a recent jazz night, held Thursdays at Foolish Things Bar and Biscuit
DINNER AND A SERENADE DATE NIGHT SPOTS WITH LOCAL FOOD AND A SIDE OF LIVE MUSIC BY BLAYKLEE FREED
DUET 108 N. Detroit Ave. Duet hosts live music Thursday-Sunday on its patio when weather allows. Otherwise, the show moves indoors. The restaurant’s modern American menu includes favorites like the gingersnap-crusted salmon and local beerbattered fish and chips for dinner. Located in the Tulsa Arts District, Duet is an ideal eating spot after a self52
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guided art crawl through local galleries. Reservations recommended. duetjazz.com FOOLISH THINGS BAR AND BISCUIT 3524-F S. Peoria Ave. Thursday nights are all about jazz at Bar and Biscuit. Local musicians serenade with smooth jazz as patrons sip coffee and cocktails in a relaxing atmosphere. While the mouthwatering dinner menu is tempting at this Brookside haven, Bar and Biscuit serves breakfast all day; the fried chicken biscuit includes honey butter and Point Reyes blue cheese crumble on arugula with a sunnyside-up egg. Paired with the Bonuts (fried biscuit dough), you and your sweetheart won’t leave hungry. barandbiscuit.com FRENCH HEN 319 E. Archer St. One of downtown Tulsa’s latest upscale additions, French Hen serves up classic French dishes with wine pairings that please the palate. Impress your date with dishes that have an amazing depth of flavor on one of the special
nights that includes live music. Look on the restaurant’s social media for announcements every month for live music by Tulsa musicians Mary Cogan and Pat Savage. Classic French starters include escargot, fried oysters and seared Forest Mushroom Tart, but the plats principaux is where the memories are made; try the grilled duck breast with brandy peppercorn cream or orange and cherry glace. Call 918-492-2596 to make a reservation. frenchhentulsa.com POLO GRILL 2038 Utica Square Kick back and relax to the fireside tunes of Tulsa guitarist Mark Bruner at 11:30 a.m. every Sunday at this Utica Square haven. The award-winning musician plays a variety of tunes on his guitar — songs from B.B. King to Hank Williams. For dinner, you can’t go wrong with the bone-in Frenched chicken with goat cheese, basil, parmesan stuffing and truffle oil, and a side of Yukon gold smashed potatoes and sautéed asparagus. Polo Grill’s lounge is a great spot for luscious libations and charcuterie, or coffee and dessert, and the patio has heaters. pologrill.com TP
GREG BOLLINGER
THE CHALKBOARD 1324 S. Main St. Nested at the bottom of Hotel Ambassador, the Chalkboard sports a European-bistro atmosphere with live music from 6-8 p.m., Tuesday-Saturday, and 11:30 a.m.1:30 p.m. during Sunday brunch. Local musicians play shows weekly, including Steve Shupper (Thursday evening), Dave Kay (Friday evening) and Steve Liddell (Saturday evening and Sunday brunch). Planning a date with dinner and dessert is classic and won’t disappoint, but sharing cocktails and conversations on the heated patio is another cozy way to connect. Reservations encouraged. chalkboardtulsa.com
Celebrating 20 years of boldly moving forward....to a cure!
March 4, 2022 Hyatt Regency Tulsa Downtown
Doors open at 6 pm
Program begins at 8 pm
Cocktail Attire
Aliza Tomlinson, living with MS since 2004
For more information & to Buy Tickets: Contact Nikki Smith nikki.smith@nmss.org 918-697-1935
nationalMSsociety.org/uncorking-the-cure-tulsa
35 23 S PEORIA AVE
918•747•9 4 6 3
OLVIN E.COM
Art Show & Sale FEBRUARY 26 & 27, 2022 SATURDAY: 10AM-5PM SUNDAY: 11AM-5PM TULSA MARRIOTT SOUTHERN HILLS - 1902 EAST 71ST STREET
natureworks.org
AMY LAY UNION, OREGON
CHRIS WILSON MARIETTA, GEORGIA
TulsaPeople.com
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A LA CARTE
Steak Stuffers
Cafe Ole
MEXICAN
THREE PLACES FOR PHILLY CHEESESTEAK It’s more than 1,000 miles to Philadelphia, but when you’re craving a good cheesesteak, Steak Stuffers will take you there. Choose from a 6- or 12-inch sandwich with Cheez Whiz. If you like it extra cheesy, you can add provolone, pepper jack or American cheese. These cheesesteaks are bursting full of steak and other toppings like grilled onions and bell peppers. Steak Stuffers is open 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Monday-Friday, and is closed weekends. 7846 E. 51ST ST. | 918-743-7474 | STEAKSTUFFERSUSA.COM
Phat Philly's
Metropolis 54
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Phat Philly’s cheesesteaks are the kind of food you want when you’re craving something salty, cheesy and delicious. And this decadent yet casual food is available until 4 a.m. on weekends at the Tulsa location, making it a late-night favorite for many. The original features soft bread stuffed with thin-sliced steak, grilled onions, bell peppers and Cheez Whiz. Pair that with waffle fries and house-made ranch dressing, and you’re in cheesesteak heaven. 1305 S. PEORIA AVE., 918-382-7428 | 1105 N. ELM PLACE, BROKEN ARROW, 918-994-6565 | PHATPHILLYS.COM The classic cheesesteak at Metropolis brings people in for lunch every day. Served with crisp fries, it’s one of the most popular regional favorites on the menu. But just as popular is the Philly vegan with portobello, peppers and onions. Its meaty mushrooms make a good steak substitute. Metropolis also has a Philly chicken with Cheez Whiz or provolone, peppers and onions on toasted bread. 1124 S. LEWIS AVE. IN MOTHER ROAD MARKET | 918-240-1970 | METROPOLISSTREETFOOD.COM — NATALIE MIKLES
Los Cabos 300 Riverwalk Terrace, Suite 100, Jenks; 918-298-2226 151 Bass Pro Drive, Broken Arrow; 918-355-8877 9455 N. Owasso Expressway, Owasso; 918-609-8671 loscabosok.com El Tequila 5001 S. Harvard Ave., 918-895-6262 8118 S. Memorial Drive, Suite A; 918-459-7677 eltequilatulsa.com Señor Tequila 3348 S. Peoria Ave., 918-749-2400 6973 E. 71st St., 918-481-7200 facebook.com/senortequilatulsa Abuelo’s 10909 E. 71st St., 918-249-1546 1531 W. 81st St., Suite A; 918-445-7257 abuelos.com Chimi’s 1304 E. 15th St., 918-587-4411 5320 S. Harvard Ave., 918-749-7755 6709 E. 81st St., 918-960-2723 chimismexican.com Cafe Ole 3509 S. Peoria Ave., Suite 100 | 918-745-6699 cafeolebrookside.com El Rancho Grande 1629 E. 11th St. | 918-584-0816 elranchograndemexicanfood.com El Rio Verde 38 N. Trenton Ave. | 918-592-2555 facebook.com/elrioverdetulsa
MICHELLE POLLARD; METROPOLIS: COURTESY MOTHER ROAD MARKET
Get your Phill
The winners from TulsaPeople’s annual A-List Readers’ Choice Awards for Mexican food are some of the busiest restaurants in town.
TRY THIS!
THE BAE
from Eiffel Tower Grilled Cheese Co. 2108 S. MEMORIAL DRIVE | 918-605-8535 | EIFFELTOWERTULSA.COM
SOUND BITE
PERFECT PAIRING What goes best with a grilled cheese? Tomato soup, of course. Add a cup ($2) of the warm, thick and savory accompaniment to any sandwich.
AARON OEHLBERG Bartender at Kilkenny’s Irish Pub, 1413 E. 15th St. How long have you worked at Kilkenny’s? 15 years. What is the most popular dish on the menu? King’s River Fish and Chips, which is beer-battered Icelandic cod, fried golden brown and served with crisp potato wedges and tangy homemade tartar sauce. What is your favorite thing to eat on the menu? Mooncoin boxty, which is a flaked salmon filet, tomato hearts, mushrooms and creamed leeks. Topped with a buttery lemon dill sauce.
TRY THIS: MICHELLE POLLARD; SOUND BITE: TIM LANDES
What is your favorite drink to make? Old-Fashioned made with our barrel select Eagle Rare Bourbon. BEFORE ANYONE ELSE Fall in love with this sandwich ($10) stacked with bacon, avocado, egg and pepper jack cheese with a drizzle of the Sriracha signature sauce between two slices of hot, toasted bread.
FOOD TRUCK FRENZY After much success testing a menu at the Tulsa State Fair, brother-sister duo owner Josh Caffey and manager Stephanie Caffey opened a permanent location.
Do you have a specialty brunch cocktail you’d recommend? Guinness Bloody Mary. Where and what are you eating when you’re not at work? I love a steak at Prhyme Steakhouse. Favorite bar beside your own and why? Valkyrie! I love their cocktails, and the atmosphere and the bartenders are fantastic. — TIM LANDES TulsaPeople.com
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W H AT’S COOK ING
Cajun Ed’s
Doc’s
Nola’s
Merritt’s
Let the good times roll MARDI GRAS IS MARCH 1, AND WE’RE READY TO EAT AND DRINK OUR WAY THROUGH IT. HERE ARE OUR FAVORITE WAYS TO EXPERIENCE A BIT OF BOURBON STREET. BY NATALIE MIKLES
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2.
EAT OYSTERS AT DOC’S Sip sparkling wine and watch the world go by from the heated patio at Doc’s in Brookside. The Creole-inspired menu at Doc’s is full of the deliciousness you find in New Orleans. The lobster bisque is legendary, as is the red beans and rice with smoked bacon and andouille sausage. But maybe the very best thing on the menu is the chargrilled oysters with clarified butter and Parmesan cheese. It’s served with crisp bread to soak up every last bite. 3509 S. PEORIA AVE. | 918-949-3663
3.
DRINK A HURRICANE AT NOLA’S You won’t find a more beautiful place to sip your hurricane than the elegant, chandeliered bar at Nola’s. And the attention to the bar detail matches the attention paid to the drink. This hurricane starts with house barrel-aged rum; combined with fassionola syrup made from hibiscus, mango, passionfruit and strawberry; then given a shot of fresh lime juice for tartness. Order one for yourself or a fishbowl, which serves two to four. And you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu — from the Cajun fried voodoo chicken to shrimp and cheese grits. 1334 E. 15TH ST. | 918-779-7766
4.
ORDER A KING CAKE FROM MERRITT’S If you’re not going out for Mardi Gras, but still want to make the day fun, order a king cake from Merritt’s Bakery. The large, braided cinnamon roll-like cake is filled with cinnamon, cream cheese, strawberry, blueberry or pecan praline. The cake is iced and decorated in the traditional Carnivale colors of green for faith, gold for power and purple for justice. A small plastic baby is hidden in the cake, and whoever gets the slice with the baby is in charge of bringing the cake the next year. 3202 E. 15TH ST., 918-747-2301 | 9521-G RIVERSIDE PARKWAY, 918-296-9000 | 4930 W. KENOSHA ST., BROKEN ARROW, 918-250-1607 TP
MICHELLE POLLARD; CAJUN ED'S: VALERIE WEI-HAAS
1.
PARTY AT CAJUN ED’S There’s a party, and everyone’s invited. Cajun Ed’s is excited to bring the party back this year with live music, frozen hurricanes and daiquiris, and more food than you can imagine. Samples of favorite Cajun dishes will be on hand, as well as a special Mardi Gras dinner menu with red beans and rice, etouffee, gumbo, boiled crawfish, alligator, po’boys, fried seafood baskets and more. You’ll want a slice of the from-scratch king cake. And don’t worry if you forgot your beads — they’ll be passing them out all day. 2101 E. 71ST ST. | 918-298-8400
W H AT’S COOK ING
COZY WEEKDAY BREAKFAST
O
n weekends we love going out to brunch for steak and eggs, stuffed omelets and stacks of pancakes with maple syrup. But on weekdays, it’s nice to have something simple at home. Simple doesn’t have to mean boring though. Right now we’re loving crunchy granola on overnight oats with chia seeds. It’s easy to make and something you can prepare on a Sunday night to have all week long. — NATALIE MIKLES This is just enough to make one or two servings of overnight oats. The granola makes much more, but you’ll be glad to have it as a yogurt or ice cream topping or to eat as a snack.
OVERNIGHT OATS WITH MOLASSES-ALMOND GRANOLA 1/2 cup regular oats 1/2 cup whole milk 1/4 cup vanilla yogurt 1 tablespoon chia seeds 1 tablespoon honey 1 teaspoon vanilla
Place oats, milk, yogurt, chia seeds, honey and vanilla in a medium-size Mason jar or glass container and stir. Cover with a lid or plastic wrap. Place jar in refrigerator for at least 2 hours. Overnight is best. Top with granola.
MOLASSES-ALMOND GRANOLA
MICHELLE POLLARD
2 cups regular oats 1/2 cup sliced almonds 2 tablespoons wheat germ 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/3 cup raisins 1/3 cup dried cranberries 2 tablespoons sugar 5 tablespoons molasses 3 tablespoons canola oil 1 1/4 teaspoons vanilla extract
Visit TulsaPeople.com for a pound cake muffin recipe courtesy of Natalie Mikles.
Preheat oven to 325 degrees. In a food processor, combine oats, almonds and wheat germ. Pulse 10 times or until coarsely chopped. In a medium bowl, combine oat mixture, salt and cinnamon, tossing well. Spray a foil-lined baking sheet with cooking spray and spread oat mixture on sheet. Bake for 20 minutes or until lightly browned, stirring occasionally. Remove mixture from baking sheet. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine raisins, cranberries, sugar, molasses, canola oil and vanilla extract. Cook 4 minutes or until sugar dissolves, stirring frequently. Pour the cranberry mixture over the oat mixture, tossing to coat. Spread the granola evenly on baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes or until the mixture is lightly browned. Remove granola from oven, and cool completely. Break into small pieces. Store granola in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. TulsaPeople.com
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We’ve made things look very different at the corner of 28th and Harvard!
New Dog Dish! We invite you to come see and enjoy our new store at 2803 South Harvard. Bring your dog with you!
2803 SOUTH HARVARD | 918-624-2600 | OPEN MONDAY–SATURDAY
The store your pet deserves!
Love’s in the air MICHELLE POLLARD
FIND THIS ONE AT BROOKSIDE’S M.A. DORAN GALLERY, 3509 S. PEORIA AVE. MADORANGALLERY.COM
Nina Jun’s “Red Heart with Flowers” ($2,200) might look like a mylar balloon, but the Koreanborn sculptor who is based in Los Angeles has become known for her ceramic balloon sculptures in countless shapes and themes.
TulsaPeople.com
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BE SEEN
Vintage flair TULSAN STARTS GREENWOOD AVE. BRAND TO BLEND STYLE WITH SUBSTANCE. BY ANNE BROCKMAN
T
he Greenwood Ave. brand has become a favorite of many for its mix of vintage flair with a keen eye on today’s fashion. Founder Trey Thaxton is the man behind this brand, and he’s sporting the classic BWS bomber at his 19&21 pop-up inside Mother Road Market. Look for the shop through mid-February. Greenwood Ave. began in 2018 with T-shirts sporting logos from landmark businesses destroyed in the 1921 Massacre. “There’s more meaning than just looking cool,” Thaxton says. It’s the conversations and stories these designs ignite that’s really the goal, he says. Since its inception, the clothing line has expanded to include sweatshirts, jackets and accessories for women and men. A children’s line might be in the future, he adds. He’s especially proud of a recent partnership with cycling team Legion and the brand’s expansion outside of Tulsa. Thaxton originates the designs for Greenwood Ave., and the majority of the products are screen printed here in Tulsa. “Whatever I touch or do has to have meaning,” he says. Take the shop — along with Greenwood Ave. brand items, Thaxton has mixed in products from other local, Black-owned companies. On the shelves today are candles from Subtle Home Co., barbecue sauce from Albert’s Gourmet Barbecue Sauce and Zela roll-on pain relief. Thaxton hopes to open 19&21’s brick-and-mortar in the Greenwood District this year, which will give him even more opportunities to give back to the community. Right now, 10% of all Greenwood Ave. sales go to north Tulsa community efforts. Recent recipients have included Oasis Fresh Market and Crossover Preparatory Academy. “For me it’s about uplifting other people,” he says. TP
Date night with wife Amber means getting a babysitter for their two children, grabbing some sushi and catching a movie at CINEMARK TULSA. 60
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The RAINBOW CAB DESIGN is one Thaxton’s favorites. The nostalgic logo was one of the first he put on Greenwood Ave. clothing back in 2018.
Thaxton loves to browse the sneaker selection at SILHOUETTE. Shop owner Venita Cooper has carried Greenwood Ave. products from the beginning.
MICHELLE POLLARD; SILHOUETTE: GREG BOLLINGER; CINEMARK: TIM LANDES
TULSA FAVORITES
T R U F F L E S F OR
Valentine’s Day MONDAY, FEBRUARY 14
TH
3541 S. Harvard Ave, Tulsa, OK 918-712-8785 |
www.TraversMahanApparel.com South Lewis at 81st • The Plaza • 918-296-4100
1904 Harvard Avenue Avenue 1904 South South Harvard
Rocks Rocks
Watches Watches
Minerals Minerals
Jewelry Jewelry
Stones Stones
Repairs Repairs
CustomDesigns Designs Custom
6 N. LEWIS | 918.584.2217 zieglerart.com
• CUSTOM PICTURE FRAMING • FINE ART • HOME ACCESSORIES
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HOME
Flower POWER
“EVERYTHING’S COMING UP ROSES” IS NO CLICHE FOR VALENTINE’S DAY. The Society of American Florists estimates more than 250 million roses will be produced for the holiday, and in 2019, 28% of American adults bought flowers or plants for Valentine’s Day. It is one of the top three holidays for florists, barely nudging out Christmas/Hanukkah and Mother’s Day. The industry has changed, and now holiday sales account for only about one-fourth of a florist’s business; buying and sending fresh flowers is year-round. — CONNIE CRONLEY
The most popular flower? “Roses,” says Toni Garner, owner of Toni’s Flowers and Gifts, “but people also love peonies and tulips.” Nicki Argo of Mary Murray’s Flowers agrees but adds “starfighter lilies, also known as stargazers, (for their fragrance) and big, bright gerber daisies because they’re fun and whimsical.” PEONY
ALSTROEMERIA
GERBER DAISY
STARFIGHTER LILY ROSE TULIP
Advice: Don’t wait for a special occasion. Or for a gift; treat yourself. A flower in a pretty vase can make you happy. If the house is messy, fresh flowers will brighten the mood. “Whatever the question,” says former Tulsan Catherine Yox, web manager for TeamFloral, an industry marketing service, “flowers are the answer.”
How has the floral industry changed? More male customers buying fresh flowers and receiving them. In general, men prefer contemporary and modern arrangements with brighter colors. TP
MICHEELE POLLARD
ORCHID
The most unappreciated flower? Alstroemeria, according to Argo. Orchids in arrangements, not just the potted plants, Garner says.
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12/18/19 3:22 PM
BEYOND CITY LIMITS
Kansas rendezvous SMALL-TOWN CHARM ABOUNDS IN THE SUNFLOWER STATE. BY RHYS MARTIN
F
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(Top to bottom) Downtown Lindsborg, Kansas; Renaissance Cafe; Stiefel Theatre
Between Lindsborg and Salina sits the town of Assaria, which is home to a unique Italian restaurant called the Renaissance Cafe. The food is great, but the location is what really sets this place apart. The restaurant is inside a centuryold high school building; the seating surrounds the former gymnasium. The decor features vintage photographs of the town and old textbooks, while another part of the restaurant has a selection of puzzles and board games. Its hours are limited, so check in advance before you head out for dinner. TP
KANSAS TOURISM
ebruary in the Midwest can be a fickle month. Sometimes the cold is bitter, and other times it’s unseasonably warm. Regardless of the temperature outside, there are some great things to see and do in the Sunflower State within a day’s drive of Tulsa that will keep your spirits warm. Lindsborg, Kansas, is a small town in McPherson County known for its Scandinavian heritage and Swedish population. In fact, the king of Sweden even stopped for a visit in the 1970s. The downtown business district has several Swedish gift shops and a collection of “Wild Dala” horse statues with unique paint schemes. The Blacksmith Coffee Shop and Roastery is a great spot for a break; check out the vintage forge and anvil among other accoutrements that hearken to the days when this site was an active town smithy. For the history-minded, the McPherson County Old Mill Museum is a must-see attraction. In addition to artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Lindsborg’s early days, the grounds also are home to a Swedish pavilion that was originally built for the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis. There are several fun things to do in nearby towns, too, if you want to make it a weekend trip. Just to the west of Lindsborg is Marquette, where you’ll fi nd the Smoky Valley Distillery and the Kansas Motorcycle Museum. The museum is dedicated to Stan “The Man” Engdahl, a dirt-track racer from Marquette who started the museum and became a fi xture of the community. The distillery sits within an old, converted co-op and offers tastings and tours. Less than 30 minutes north of Lindsborg is Salina, a town of about 50,000. It is home to the Stiefel Theatre for the Performing Arts, an art deco gem in the heart of a vibrant downtown district. Th is venue offers concerts and performances throughout the year such as American Idol winner Scotty McCreery on Feb. 17 and country/gospel artist Josh Turner on March 25. If nothing else, the multi-color lights on the building’s exterior make for some great photographs. Downtown Salina offers many foodand-drink options from barbecue to steakhouses to brewpubs.
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BEAUTY & WEIGHT MANAGEMENT I am ready to start using dermal fillers. How do I decide which one is right for me? The first place to start when deciding which dermal filler is best for you is with a complimentary consultation with one of our many medical professionals. There are several different types of dermal fillers and many different manufactures of dermal fillers to choose. It is common to use a hyaluronic acid (HA) based dermal filler when being injected for the first time. The most common HA filler on the market today are those in the Juvederm family, made by Allergan. If you are ready to start researching dermal fillers for your first time, check out our new online quiz to find the best fit for you at baweightspa.com. Make sure to check it out soon as this quiz is available for a short time only. For more information and to schedule your consultation call us today at 918-872-9999.
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INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT I turn 72 in 2022 and was told I could wait until 2023 to take my first Minimum Required Distribution (MRD) from my IRA. Is that correct? Yes, but with some strings. If you postpone your first year’s MRD, you must take the distribution by April 1st in the year following the year you turn 72. In addition, you must take a 2nd distribution by December 31st in the following year. This could have income tax consequences. Also, you will be calculating your 2nd MRD on a higher number than if you take the distribution in the year you turn 72. There are circumstances that this election can make a meaningful difference so estimate the distribution both ways.
J. Harvie Roe, CFP, President AmeriTrust Investment Advisors, Inc. 4506 S. Harvard Ave. • Tulsa, OK 74135 918-610-8080 • hroe@amerad.com
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HEALTH
Tiffany Turner opened Swallowing and Neurological Rehabilitation in 2014. “We are the only clinic in the region with the equipment and training to offer many of the specialized diagnostics and treatments we offer for patients,” Turner says. Many of SNR’s patients are referred by specialists, but others hear of the clinic’s offerings through word-of-mouth and self-referrals.
I SPECIALISTS ADDRESS SYMPTOMS OF COMMON, YET MISUNDERSTOOD MALADIES. BY LAURA DENNIS
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n the world of physical therapy there exists a growing number of highly specialized therapists who serve to alleviate specific ailments and issues. Speech, geriatric and cardiovascular are among the myriad treatments being offered to patients in Tulsa. Specialized therapies are in high demand, and likely always have been, but as anyone who has sought therapy for pelvic pain or upper GI issues will tell you, the supply has not matched the demand. Why is that? Tiff any Turner, speech-language pathologist, board-certified swallowing specialist and owner of Swallowing and Neurological Rehabilitation, says for her field, it’s a lack of knowledge and poor communication. “Adult speech pathology services are often very misunderstood and underutilized,” Turner says. “Even though speech language, cognitive and swallowing disorders affect a fairly large percentage of individ-
uals, most people are very unaware of what we actually do.” After receiving her master’s in speechlanguage pathology, Turner saw a great need for specialized outpatient care working in small, rural hospitals and skilled nursing facilities. During that time, she found herself treating patients with diagnoses that affected their swallowing or communication abilities, yet many were sent home while still needing therapy for these complications. “There are speech-language pathologists who treat adult patients in hospital and rehab settings,” she says. “But many people outside of an inpatient setting fall through the cracks.” The demand for such a specialty eventually led Turner to open her own practice in 2014. At SNR, Turner and her team treat patients with disorders affecting their swallowing, voice, speech-language and cognition. These issues stem
MICHEELE POLLARD
Journey to recovery
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Those looking for highly corrective skin care do not have to travel to L.A. or New York City. The Skin Bar is an award-winning corrective skin care clinic based in Tulsa. That means you don’t have to go far to get great looking skin. “We are constantly training with the best in the world to bring the most up-to-date tech to our med spa,” says owner Ashley Yancey, who has had extensive professional training and advanced certifications studying in Los Angeles, New York City, Paris, Chiang Mai and more. “We don’t temporarily band-aid issues. We fix them.” Yancey’s clients can choose from natural corrective procedures, products from Biologique Recherche and DMK, as well as AnteAGE bone marrow skin care. Among the procedures are microneedling, PRF (platelet rich fibrin) injections, enzyme therapy facials, microcurrent facials, fibroblast lift and the PDO Thread Lift, a non-surgical lift procedure. Other services include utilizing radio frequency technology to sculpt and firm the face and body, along with weight management and gut health. The full body enzyme therapy, microcurrent sessions, gut health boosting supplements and infrared sauna help clients get healthy, lose inches, tighten skin and feel better, Yancey says. Yancey is assisted by Sheila Wright, a certified aesthetic nurse. She is also a passionate artist in facial detail, is a lip filler specialist and highly trained in achieving elevated results. Wright’s prior aesthetic experience was in Beverly Hills, working for plastic surgeons featured on “Dr. 90210” on the E! Network. Wright is recognized as a leader in her field and has trained other nurses in her specialized techniques over the years. If you’re not sure what treatment to do or uncertain about skin care products, The Skin Bar offers a hands-on consultation that will help build the ideal skin care plan and at-home care regimen to keep you looking your best.
Becky Wilcox leads the pelvic rehab team at Physical Therapy of Tulsa where she provides treatment for numerous conditions, but she focuses on unexplained pelvic pain or bladder/bowel issues most often. “There are lots of people who struggle with these issues, but unfortunately, they are often misinformed,” Wilcox says. “What we try to stress to people is that while it’s absolutely common, it is not normal.”
from a range of diagnoses like Parkinson’s disease and progressive, neurological illnesses such as muscular dystrophy, to strokes, brain injuries and many types of post-surgical problems that result in nerve damage. However, Turner’s niche is being a board-certified swallowing specialist. It is estimated that in the U.S. each year, approximately one in 25 adults will experience a swallowing problem, but many of these individuals never receive the proper diagnosis or treatment, according to the American Speech-Language Hearing Association. Despite the great need for this focused therapy, Turner is the only specialist of her kind in Tulsa in a clinical setting treating patients. Similar to Turner’s field, Becky Wilcox, head of the pelvic rehab team at Physical Therapy of Tulsa, says most patients and physicians have an incomplete picture of the treatments pelvic rehab physical therapists provide, many of which are quite common. Even worse, some issues like incontinence and weakened bowel muscles are seen as normal by many doctors because of their commonality in patients who are older or who have children. “There are lots of people who struggle with these issues, but unfortunately, they are often misinformed,” Wilcox says. “What we try to stress to people is that while it’s absolutely common, it is not normal.” Because of this disconnect between primary care physicians and specialists, countless people are going without treatment or are suffering unnecessarily with treatable conditions. She adds, “If those things exist, there’s a cause, and it can be treated.” It was for these reasons Wilcox found herself pursuing the pelvic floor specialty. She had some exposure to women’s health and pelvic floor treatment in physical therapy school and saw fi rsthand the need for more practitioners in the field. Wilcox has been providing treatments for 12 years at Physical Therapy of Tulsa. She leads a team of three pelvic rehab practitioners in providing treatment for a variety of conditions, but most frequently they see patients with unexplained pelvic pain or bladder/bowel control issues. These maladies aren’t difficult to treat, but they often go undiagnosed, says Wilcox, largely due to the fact they are deemed “normal,” or the physician lacks the knowledge to send them to a clinic like hers. It is often, she CONTINUED ON P. 70.
Tulsa Eye Associates Eye care
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James Ronk, M.D., Thomas Briggs, M.D., Julie Soto, M.D.
6465 S. Yale Ave., Suite 215 918-492-8455
MICHEELE POLLARD
The caring and compassionate physicians at Tulsa Eye Associates are committed to providing exceptional eye care to all their patients. The highly trained eye care team consists of Dr. James Ronk, Dr. Julie Soto, and Dr. Thomas Briggs. Dr. Ronk graduated from Creighton University Medical school, completed his internship in Internal Medicine at Baylor University Medical Center, ophthalmology residency at Tulane University, and cornea fellowship at University of Texas-Houston. Dr. Soto is a graduate of the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine, internship in Internal Medicine at Seattle’s Virginia Mason Medical Center, and ophthalmology residency at the University of Texas Southwestern in Dallas. Dr. Briggs graduated from the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine, completed his internship at OU’s School of Community Medicine, and ophthalmology residency at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston. The Tulsa Eye Associates team specialize in advanced cataract surgery, LASIK surgery, multifocal and advanced technology lens implants, as well as glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic eye care.
Caring for our members is what we do best.
At Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma (BCBSOK), we take pride in being member-focused. Our commitment is to ensure you have access to quality care while protecting your health care dollars. We are here to help.
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611509.0121
CONTINUED FROM P. 68.
says, they’ll treat women in their 50s who have struggled with bladder control since having children, and they will lament not knowing of this therapy option sooner. “They didn’t know if these problems were normal or treatable, or if they just have to live with them,” she says. “Their doctors just didn’t know who to send them to.” Up until 2014, patients required a physician’s referral to be seen at PT of Tulsa. But now, patients have direct access to care. “We’re still trying to educate physicians and tell them who we are, what we do and how we can help,” she says. Ultimately, Wilcox adds, providing care is a group effort between doctors and specialized therapists when it comes to treating patients. Comparably, Turner says her clinic sees a handful of patients who are referred by PCPs, but many come from specialists such as ENTs, neurologists or gastroenterologists who are more familiar with the services they offer. And as awareness increases through avenues such as Parkinson’s support groups, for example, they also see many word-of-mouth referrals and self-referrals. “We love what we do,” she says. “And we are always looking for ways to raise awareness, as earlier intervention yields the best treatment outcomes.” The importance of patients getting the therapy they need cannot be overstated. For some, it truly can be life changing. Turner shares a story of a patient who had been using a feeding tube for 10 years due to stiffness/ fibrosis from the radiation used to treat his head and neck cancer. He traveled from Ecuador to receive treatment at Turner’s clinic. After therapy to break up scar tissue, daily intensive exercise and lots of hard work on the patient’s behalf, “he was able to regain oral nutrition just in time to go back home and eat a Christmas meal with his family,” she says. For Wilcox, one of her career highlights and success stories is rehabbing a patient through unexplained pelvic pain during intercourse. It was to “the point where she and her husband were not able to have sex,” Wilcox says. They worked through those issues in physical therapy, and she’s proud to share this patient welcomed her first child in November 2021. “It’s rewarding to treat someone from that point of pain to this incredible milestone,” she says. Turner adds, “It’s such a blessing to be a part of our patients’ journey to recovery.” TP
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MOST ADVANCED MRI SYSTEM IN OKLAHOMA Give your doctor the image quality that supports advanced care. OSU Biomedical Imaging Center Hardesty Center for Clinical Research and Neuroscience 1013 E 66th Place | 539-325-6560 We accept all major insurances and offer cash pay options.
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Eastern Oklahoma Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons Oral Surgery Eastern Oklahoma Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (EOOMS) is committed to providing comprehensive oral surgery care. They practice the full scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery. Common procedures include wisdom teeth and dental extractions with intravenous anesthesia for patient comfort. They specialize in all aspects of dental implant surgery, bone grafting and jaw reconstruction. As a group they offer 24-hour practice coverage and take trauma calls for local hospitals. EOOMS is comprised of four experienced oral surgeons: Todd Johnson, D.D.S.; Gregory Segraves, D.D.S.; M.S. Heath Evans, D.D.S, and Chris Ray, D.D.S. All EOOMS surgeons hold memberships in numerous dental societies including the Tulsa County Dental Society, Oklahoma Dental Association, American Dental Association, Southwest Society of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons and American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. For patients’ convenience, most of the group’s services are provided in the EOOMS offices. The offices are board certified for office IV anesthesia to ensure patient comfort. Quality of care and patient safety are always the group’s primary concern. The EOOMS staff is a committed group of employees who strives to achieve the highest standard of care. Their surgical team has specialized training in oral surgery and anesthesia assisting, which provides for a more comfortable and safe oral surgery experience.
Dr. Greg Segraves, Dr. Todd Johnson, Dr. Heath Evans, Dr. Chris Ray
Broken Arrow 4716 W. Urbana St. 918-449-5800
Owasso 12802 E. 101st Pl. N. 918-274-0944
WWW.EOOMS.COM
Advanced Prostate Cancer Institute at Urologic Specialists of Oklahoma Urologic Specialists The first and only one of its kind in the region, the Advanced Prostate Cancer Institute at Urologic Specialists is dedicated solely to men with advanced prostate cancer and their specific health care needs. A specialized team of urologic oncologists, surgeons and nurse navigators work together to provide personalized cancer care while providing support for the patient and their family from the time of diagnosis through treatment and follow up. Advanced prostate cancer differs from the more common localized prostate cancer because it occurs outside the prostate (metastatic) and does not respond to first-line hormone treatment. Advanced prostate cancer is most often a recurrence of prostate cancer. It occurs when prostate cancer cells spread to other parts of the body like the bones, lymph nodes, liver or other organs. In recent years, new treatments have been approved to treat advanced prostate cancer. While there is not yet a cure for the disease, there is great hope. The groundbreaking treatments can help control the cancer, reduce symptoms, improve and maintain quality of life, and extend survival for advanced prostate patients.
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10901 E. 48th St. For an appointment call 918-749-8765 or visit urologicspecialists.com.
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MUSINGS
TIME WILL COME GOOD O
h, hello, February. I remember you. You tried to kill me last year. Tried to freeze me to death. Lucky for you, I’m not holding grudges. I’ve moved on and remember better times. Last summer, a little girl named Frances came visiting from down the street. She had a caterpillar in her hand. She knows everything about caterpillars and now, thanks to Frances, I know quite a bit about caterpillars myself. We searched my garden for more caterpillars or even butterfl ies, but we found none. My garden was a disappointment to Frances. She left me with clear instructions: If I do find a caterpillar, I’m to put it in a jar with three leaves of lettuce and call her immediately. She’ll be down to get it as fast as she can. Frances likes fast. All through the spring, summer and fall, she would run up and down the sidewalk as fast as she could. Sometimes with her little brother or a friend, sometimes alone. When she couldn’t run fast enough, she rode her bicycle up and down even faster. Midfl ight, overcome with a combination of speed and joy she would throw back her head and shout, “Ahhhh.” It’s a good thing to be Frances and 9 years old. When the weather got too cold for caterpillars and running, Frances decided she and I would
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write poetry together. And we did. She wrote a poem and left it in my mailbox. I wrote one and left it in her mailbox. But then, school and winter holidays claimed Frances’ attention. Then, I had neither Frances nor caterpillars, but I still had poetry, and I came across a poem by Barbara Hamby that helped in my goal of moving on. The poem is titled “I Beseech Thee, O Yellow Pages ...” and begins this way: “I beseech thee, O Yellow Pages, help me find a number for Barbara Stanwyck, because I need a tough broad in my corner right now. She’ll pour me a tumbler of scotch or gin and tell me to buck up ...” When I need more strong women, I’ll summon Bette Davis, hard-eyed, cold-hearted and right out of “The Little Foxes.” If resilience is called for, what’s the contact information for Vivien Leigh in “Gone with the Wind”? When pride of selfworth is wanted, I’ll need the email of Maureen O’Hara from “The Quiet Man.” While you’re at it, for lighter occasions and brighter days, get me Mary Tyler Moore, Lucille Ball and Carol Burnett. What a support group for Women’s History Month coming in March.
After that, the garden is standing by. In the spring, tulip and daffodil bulbs will jump out of hiding — color to the rescue! In mid-summer, vigilant sunflowers will turn their faces to follow the sun all day. For now, this is the time for nesting in and remembering that we got through last February, and we can do it again. Irish poet Pádraig Ó Tuama shows us how to navigate the winters of our life: Pick up the stones over which we stumble and build altars. Claw our way out and look up and around at this wild and wonderful world. “Let’s lick the earth from our fingers.” Cold weather, literal or figurative, calls for patience. Another Irish Poet, John O’Donohue, says, “Th is is the time to be slow, lie low to the wall until the bitter weather passes.” He assures us, “Time will come good.” Ah, February, you’re a tricky one. You can skip in all sunshine and smiles, or slide in as mean as a snake. You can be all of the brutal, cold and dark times of our lives wrapped up in one icy month, and you can delight us with valentines and chocolate. Whichever way you bounce, you’re not catching me off guard this year. I have tough friends and some tricks up my sleeve. I know that eventually, time will come good. I believe Frances will be back with a new caterpillar. TP
GEORGIA BROOKS
BY CONNIE CRONLEY
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HEART BALL • FEBRUARY 12, 2022
Paige Adkins
Catherine Albers
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Lauren Weil
COX BUSINESS CENTER For more than 50 years, the Tulsa Heart Ball has been raising funds to ensure AHA research and community efforts continue to save lives. Specifically, the AHA-Tulsa is focused on putting an end to tobacco use and nicotine addiction in the community. Sweethearts and Mavericks are high school sophomores who volunteer with the American Heart Association in Tulsa to support that work. They are introduced and their accomplishments highlighted during the Heart Ball. To join a future class, visit TulsaHeartBall.heart.org or contact Jill Nammari at Jill.Nammari@heart.org 2022 Heart Ball Chair: Vicky Laymon-Hodson
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Sweethearts and Mavericks 2022 Photography by Kelli Mariah Photography and Cheri Patton Caraline Williams
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GRAND LAKE VIEWS 35861 Walnut Ridge, Afton, OK 74331. 5 BR, 3.5 BA, is ready to be enjoyed by a large family. It offers 165 feet of shoreline in Party Cove, gentle slope to the water, nice roadside yard, large outdoor living space with upper deck and lower patio, outdoor fireplaces on both levels. Great views of Grand Lake from almost every room $1,750,000
AVALON PLACE 3025 S. Trenton Avenue. Located in the heart of Midtown, this traditional-style home sits on a corner lot. Large granite kitchen with stainless appliances, walk-in pantry, french doors open to back patio. Hardwood floors throughout the majority of the home. The Master bedroom has french doors that open to a covered patio, a tiled bathroom with double vanities, a jacuzzi tub & a steam shower. $975,000
VINITA PROPERTY
RAMONA BEAUTY 402414 W 3200 Road, Ramons, OK 74061. WILLIAMS & WILLIAMS HAS SCHEDULED THE AUCTION FOR FEBRUARY 17 AT 10:00 AM! 40 acres east of Highway 75 with a 2 story home built in 2009. Complete with an inground diving pool, spa and slide. 3 car attached garage and another 2 story garage with living quarters close by. An open floor plan on the house with a vaulted ceiling family room open to the kitchen. A bedroom with bathroom down for family/guests. Master bedroom is upstairs with luxury bathroom. A workout room overlooks the pool. Private and secluded! $895,000.
MIDTOWN LOT 4179 S. Yorktown Place. Secluded Midtown lot in Bolewood Glen just off 47th & Lewis. Lot is situated on a corner at the end of the cul-de-sac surrounded by beautiful mature trees. Easy access to Riverside Drive, River Parks, Brookside & I-44. Approximately .27 acre per Court House. Come build your Midtown dream house! $275,000
30083 S. 4420 Road, Vinita, OK 74301. Enjoy this 23-acre peaceful and private estate located one hour from Tulsa and Joplin with 5 minutes from the Will Rogers turnpike. This lovely property has four bedrooms and 3 baths, spacious high tech rustic kitchen with a large picture window overlooking the pond, open living space. $799,000
SOUTHRIDGE ESTATES 7514 S. Urbana Avenue. Magnificent custom renovation completed in 2015! 4 bed, 4 bath, 2 living, dining, 2-car garage with double decks overlooking park like setting, huge ceilings with massive open floor plan. Remodel includes everything down to studs including new foundation, full plumbing/electric/ HVAC, spray foam insulation, windows, all finishes, and home automation. $479,000
OWASSO LAND 106th Street North Owasso, OK. 1.65 acre parcel in Owasso. Situated on 106th St North between Sheridan and Memorial. Enjoy country living just 2 miles outside of town. Flat lot ready to build your dream home. Per survey 125’ frontage on 106th St. Zoned AG. Excellent location with easy access to Highway 75 & just minutes to downtown Tulsa. $135,000
E N J OY T H E LU X U RY L I F E ST Y L E YOU D E SI R E 78
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McGraw Realtors
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79
TULSA TIME WARP
An early image of First Christian Church at the southeast corner of West Ninth Street and South Boulder Avenue
PLACE OF WORSHIP STORY AND COMPOSITE IMAGE BY PATRICK MCNICHOLAS
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OKLAHOMA HISTORICAL SOCIETY
J
.W. Marshall was a settler from Missouri who arrived in Tulsa in 1901. He realized there was no Christian church in the young town and began organizing the First Christian Church of Tulsa in 1902. While the fi rst meetings were held in the Marshall family living room, the growing congregation searched for a new location. In 1903 the church dedicated a building near West Second Street and South Boulder Avenue but soon outgrew it. By 1910 it dedicated an even larger building near Fourth and Boulder, but capacity issues followed. In 1915, while temporarily worshiping inside the County Courthouse, plans were underway to build a church that would finally solve the issues facing the congregation and also rival the other massive churches under construction at this time. On Feb. 1, 1920, the domed structure at 913 S. Boulder Ave. was officially dedicated, its architecture an eclectic mix of Byzantine, baroque and rococo. The landmark structure was renovated and expanded in later years. Due to its unique style, it was used as the fi lming location for city hall in “UHF,” starring “Weird Al” Yankovic and fi lmed in Tulsa in 1988. The building remains home to the First Christian Church, which still holds services in the building. TP
Introducing
Saint Simeon’s Medical Resort
The Saint Simeon’s Medical Resort is an oasis within the greater Saint Simeon’s Community offering private medical suites with private baths, fine dining, courtyard patios or park views, exceptional nursing care, and rehabilitative therapies to meet all patients’ needs while successfully transitioning from hospital to home. The foremost goal of our specialized care team is to help you return to your vibrant, active life as quickly as possible. Call Mary today for more information: 918 -794 -1900. Or visit us at SaintSimeons.org
3701 N. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. Saint Simeon’s is a mission of the Episcopal Diocese of Oklahoma
Swing into Spring
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