Elliot Nelson and Jackie Price Johannsen share the covers of our
Elliot Nelson is one of several developers making downtown home for many. the downtown issue
downtown issue
Jackie Price Johannsen is one of several developers making downtown home for many.
Between blueprints and budgets, you need a bank that means business when it comes to your bottom line. Mabrey Bank balances success and service, to keep you in the black. Because if it matters to you, it matters to us.
Saint Francis and Warren Clinic are offering convenient drive-thru flu vaccinations with online appointment scheduling.
Flu shots are available to those age 9 and older. The cost is covered by most insurance plans. High-dose flu vaccine is available to those age 65 and older.
WARREN CLINIC TOWER NORTHWEST PARKING LOT 6600 South Yale Avenue, Tulsa
DRIVE-THRU DATES: SEPTEMBER 30 - NOVEMBER 15
APPOINTMENTS ARE REQUIRED. For location information and to schedule your flu or vaccination, visit saintfrancis.com/flu
Whether working inside their medical practices or volunteering in the community, Drs. Atul and Ashwini Vaidya enjoy the relationships they have formed and the opportunity to make a difference.
“We both grew up with physician parents in smaller communities in Oklahoma. We watched our parents develop meaningful connections with their patients and witnessed gratitude from the patients they helped. The relationships they built continue to have an impact even today. These interactions instilled the desire for both of us to pursue medicine,” the couple says.
Dr. Atul Vaidya, an otolaryngologist, works with Eastern Oklahoma Ear, Nose and Throat clinic in Tulsa. Both he and Dr. Ashwini Vaidya, a dermatologist, received their medical degrees from the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine before pursuing specialty training in other locales and then settling in Tulsa.
“Being a physician in Tulsa has been a true honor. It has made us feel like an integral part of the Tulsa community that we both love so much,” says Atul. “I like the intricacies and challenges of my medical field and the ability to work with both children and adults.”
Atul is a member of several professional organizations, including the American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery. His special interests are pediatric otolaryngology and nasal and sinus surgery. Ashwini, who has served as the past president of the Oklahoma State Dermatological Society, practices with Tulsa Dermatology Clinic. She is a member of the American Academy of Dermatology.
“I am honored patients have entrusted their care to me … Skin diseases can have a deep impact on a patient’s well-being. As a dermatologist, I feel that I can impact a patient’s life in a visible, often immediate way,” she says. “When you give to others, you receive more in return. The kindness of patients and personal relationships that have developed have been more deeply fulfilling than I could ever imagine.”
Outside of work, Atul and Ashwini have volunteered at The Market at Catholic Charities Food Bank and the Jenks Community Food Bank.
“Food insecurity is a significant issue. We have deeply valued their clients sharing their personal stories and struggles with us.” Ashwini also volunteers with both their children through the National Charity League and Young Men’s Service League.
“They are accomplished doctors, leaders in their field and very active in the community,” says Tom Bennett III, President and CEO of First Oklahoma Bank. “I’ve seen them firsthand get affirmatively involved and engaged in making something better. They are not content to let other people find answers; they are part of the solution. And they work great together.”
“First Oklahoma Bank is a step above due to the service and relationships they build with their clients. They have a personalized, customized approach for each client. We value the integrity with which they serve the community,” the couple says.
Arts area seeks district title.
Local volunteers help refugees. Lego builds of Tulsa icons. In conversation with Mr. Greenwood.
Build in Tulsa’s new design. Fabric business marks seven decades. Get outside. Connie Cronley’s “Looney Tunes.”
Hafli food festival returns.
3 places for biscuits.
South American treats.
Dining out at Misfit Kitchen.
It’s been an exciting month around here at TulsaPeople.
For the rst time since March 2007 TulsaPeople features a split cover — two individuals claim our cover position this month. Elliot Nelson and Jackie Price Johannsen are two people who have been developing downtown into the live, work and play destination that it is today.
Nelson, known for his McNellie’s Group collection of restaurants, has ventured into residential urban development with his multidisciplinary real estate company Fishless Desert. Its latest project is Santa Fe Square, which has already opened its commercial and o ce space, a 93-room hotel and a 700space parking garage, with 184 apartments becoming available later this fall. Nelson has been a pioneer when it comes to today’s downtown as we know it.
As president of Price Family Properties, a family-run commercial real estate business, Johannsen leads a team that claims roughly 50% of Tulsa’s central business district. at includes o ce, storefront, parking and apartment spaces. Company chairman and father Stuart Price saw a mountain of possibilities when he purchased the Kanbar investment portfolio in 2016. e ARCO apartment project is the latest in PFP’s residential o erings, bringing 72 new units available.
Both Nelson and Johnannsen are represented in our cover story, which begins on p. 44. Both are dynamos whose imprint on our central business district will remain for years to come. Both deserve recognition with our Downtown Issue cover.
ere’s so much going on in our city center today. ere’s transformation. ere are new businesses. ere’s creative expression. Trying to encapsulate it all is a challenge, but I hope you are able to use this issue as you journey through our streets to visit the new and familiar restaurants, venues, buildings and public spaces.
Every fall the calendar becomes lled with all the things to do as we emerge from our air-conditioned refuges. We’re
out eating on patios. We’re in the parks for celebrations. We’re walking through this festival and that annual event. ere’s no shortage of ways to spend your days in T-Town; just check our rebranded calendar called “Tulsa 10” on p. 10. It features our 10 can’t-miss activities for the month. Also, be sure to visit TulsaPeople.com every Tuesday (or sign up for our weekly e-newsletter) for a weekly Tulsa 10 round-up. It’s a handy dandy way to have what you need to ll your free time. ere’s also a crazy number of Halloween-themed events … so much that we couldn’t t it all in print. Just another reason to visit our website, which gets updated nearly every day with fresh, original content.
I feel a sense of joy every time we nish another issue, but this one is especially something to note as it wraps up TulsaPeople’s 38th volume. As Tulsa’s city magazine for the past 38 years, TulsaPeople is a celebration of everything that is Tulsa and its people are at the heart of it. ey’re the individuals doing good in our city. ey’re the young business owners taking a chance on their dream. ey’re the legendary ones named to the Tulsa Hall of Fame (see p. 38). ey’re you, our readers.
ank you for continuing to pick up and read our magazine. Last week I was told by someone new to Tulsa that she considers it her go-to guide as she learns about her new home. I take that to heart.
Happy reading. tp
Anne Brockman EDITOR
TulsaPeople Magazine is published monthly by 1603 South Boulder Avenue Tulsa, Oklahoma 74119-4407 P: 918-585-9924 F: 918-585-9926
“Ibelieve every story is a doorway and every door has a story,” says Marlon F. Hall, artist of “Doorways to Hope,” an outdoor installation that combines sight, sound and touch to help offer hope and education. Featuring 20 notable north Tulsa community members, Hall and his project partner Gordon Huether took an anthropological approach by inviting the community to nominate their own peers to be featured in this exhibition.
Honorees depicted in the murals include founder of the Terence Crutcher Foundation Rev. Joey Crutcher, founder of Reed Community Foundation Keith Reed, musician OmaleyB, founder of Takin’ it to the Streets Mary Riggins, and 2023-2024 Emerson Elementary Support Professional of the Year Deborah McClellan, among others. Next to each painting is a QR code that takes viewers to a website where they can read a brief biography about each honoree, along with a short video.
Located under the I-244 overpass directly next to the historic Mount Zion Baptist Church, the highway has long divided Greenwood from its second economic resurgence following the Tulsa Race Massacre, Hall says. “Doorways to Hope” endeavors to reclaim the highway.
“Tulsa is not a graveyard; it is a garden. Gardens have elements of decay and renewal, cycling through life, death and regeneration,” Hall says. “Tulsa has an opportunity to process its trials into opportunities for renewal. Beginning to rebuild Greenwood a day after the massacre stands as a testament to the enduring strength and resilience of the human spirit.”
The permanent installation officially opened in June. Learn more at doorwaystohopetulsa.com — MADISON WALTERS
One of north Tulsa’s historic buildings is under construction to be transformed into an entrepreneurship hub by next year.
Over the past few years, the Tulsa Economic Development Corp. Creative Capital has received $8 million in grant commitments to continue rehabilitating and converting Greenwood’s historic Moton Hospital built in 1931 into Greenwood Entrepreneurship at Moton.
The project, also known as GEM, is supported by TEDC Creative Capital, the City of Tulsa, Tulsa County, the U.S. Economic Development Administration and PartnerTulsa. The hub will provide opportunities for Black small business owners and entrepreneurs.
“We actually have multiple phases underway at once,” says TEDC CEO Rose
Washington-Jones. Phase one of demolition earlier this year included the 1970s addition to the building.
Washington-Jones anticipates the project to be completed by the end of fall 2025.
“I’m very happy with our progress. I think we have a wonderful team that’s very committed,” Washington says. “It makes a complex project much easier when you have people that are.”
The hub’s designs and drawings are near completion and Tulsans can expect to see September’s roofing construction finished soon.
To learn more about GEM, visit partnertulsa.org. — HAILEY CALDWELL
CITY OF TULSA RUNOFF AND GENERAL ELECTION NOV. 5
Tulsans will be headed to the ballot box next month to determine Tulsa’s next mayor — Karen Keith or Monroe Nichols — and Districts 2, 7 and 9 council seats, as well as the federal offices.
The deadline for voter registration is Oct. 11. Absentee ballots can be requested until 5 p.m., Oct. 21. Early voting begins Oct. 30 at a location to be announced.
www2.tulsacounty.org/ electionboard for more details.
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OCT. 2-5
TWISTED ARTS FILM FESTIVAL
Get ready for the fourth annual Twisted Arts Film Festival at Circle Cinema, an event recognizing outstanding LGBTQ+ cinema both locally and abroad. From premieres to anniversary screenings, there’s something for everyone. TWISTEDFEST.ORG
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OCT. 4-6
OSAGE PASSAGE
Known as the “unplugged” version of Tulsa Tough, this iteration of the event invites all to “ride fast, camp slow.” Route distances range from long to short courses all in Osage County.
OSAGEPASSAGE.COM
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OCT. 10
TAKING BACK SUNDAY AND THE USED
Get ready to be transported back to high school with this co-headline tour that is the stuff of emo dreams. Tulsa Theater hosts, with Guest Raue opening the show. TULSATHEATER.COM
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OCT. 10-13
“ANNE OF GREEN GABLES”
Tulsa theater group Pembroke Players will bring their newest stage adaptation “Anne of Green Gables” to Tulsa Performing Arts Center. The play tells the story of Anne Shirley, an imaginative and spirited orphan girl who is sent to live with a pair of siblings on a farm.
TULSAPAC.COM
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OCT. 11-13
TULSA PRIDE
Happy Pride! The annual event made the move from June to October and will feature a parade, a rainbow fun run and 5K, markets and live entertainment across multiple locations. TULSAPRIDE.ORG
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OCT. 13
MAPLE RIDGE HOME AND GARDEN TOUR
Tour the historic neighborhood’s 100-plus-year-old homes set in one of Tulsa’s most lush and vibrant areas. Enjoy various entertainment acts, food and drinks, live music and antique vehicles at this annual event.
MAPLERIDGENEIGHBORHOOD. COM
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Zeeco Oktoberfest Tulsa
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OCT. 17-20
ZEECO OKTOBERFEST
TULSA
Prost! Oktoberfest Tulsa celebrates Bavarian culture complete with local and international German bands, over 200 different taps of beer, German food, music, games, competitions and even a Dachshund parade and race. The annual event is located at River West Festival Park.
TULSAOKTOBERFEST.ORG
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OCT. 19
KENDALL WHITTIER ARTS FESTIVAL
The Kendall Whittier area will come alive with local art vendors, gallery shows, food trucks, live music, interactive art and kids’ activities during this annual festival. VISITKENDALLWHITTIER.COM
OCT. 25
“WHEN HARRY MET SALLY” “I’ll have what she’s having.” Philbrook Museum of Art’s final installment of its Films on the Lawn Series is “When Harry Met Sally,” the quintessential fall film. Food trucks will be at the event, so keep it down if you’re really enjoying the food. The evening is complete with a “Harry Sweater” contest. PHILBROOK. ORG
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OCT. 27
“THE PRICE IS RIGHT” LIVE “Come on down!”
The legendary gameshow “The Price is Right” is making its way to BOK Center where contestants will be randomly selected to play everyone’s favorite games from the iconic show. Prizes range from appliances, to furniture, to trips and even a brand-new car! BOKCENTER.COM
Every Friday and Saturday Sept. 27-Oct.26
Halloween Festival
The Castle of Muskogee is Oklahoma’s largest Halloween attraction with over 62 acres of spine-chilling thrills and family-friendly fun. Attractions require a ticket.
THE CASTLE OF MUSKOGEE, 3400 W. FERN MOUNTAIN ROAD, MUSKOGEE OKCASTLE.COM
Through Nov. 3
Pumpkin Town
Over 20 farm attractions including a corn maze, petting zoo and pumpkin bowling have brought Tulsans of all ages to where “the farm meets the city.” Insanity Farms, a haunted attraction, is open every Friday and Saturday night in October. 6060 S. GARNETT ROAD PUMPKINTOWNFARM.COM
Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 BOOtanical Experience
Throw on your favorite costume and visit the 11 BOOtanical activity booths nestled into Tulsa Botanic Garden’s enchantingly transformed children’s Discovery Garden. TULSA BOTANIC GARDEN, 3900 TULSA BOTANIC DRIVE TULSABOTANIC.ORG
Oct. 4-5
Thorns and Roses Walking Tour
Get ready for a night of Broken Arrow history, ghost stories, urban legends and folklore while exploring downtown BA. ROSE DISTRICT, 222 S. MAIN ST., BROKEN ARROW TULSASPIRITTOUR.COM
Oct. 4-6, 11-13
Gravestone Manor
Spotlight Children’s Theatre presents its fall performance “Gravestone Manor.” TULSA SPOTLIGHT THEATER, 1381 RIVERSIDE DRIVE TULSASPOTLIGHTTHEATER.COM
Oct. 11
Ghoul Friends Queer Cabaret Drag acts abound at this cabaret that has it all. Be entertained by an incredible lineup of local talented performers. THE STARLITE BAR, 1902 E. 11TH ST. FACEBOOK.COM/ EVENTS/1484095842219271
Oct. 12
Owasso Harvest and Pet Festival
Two festivals combine for a family fun day full of rides, live music, pumpkin patch, kid zone, pet adoption, discounted pet services (vaccines, micro-chipping), vendor booths and more.
109 N. MAIN ST., OWASSO FACEBOOK.COM/ OWASSOHARVESTFESTIVAL
Oct. 16
Pumpkin Painting
Autism Oklahoma and Broken Arrow Rose District are teaming up for a sensory pumpkin painting event.
ROSE DISTRICT, 123 N. MAIN ST., BROKEN ARROW AUTISMOKLAHOMA.ORG
Oct. 18-20, 25-27
HallowZOOeen
HallowZOOeen Days features access to the entire zoo decked out in spooky decorations, while HallowZOOeen Nights is a bit spookier and gives patrons a chance to explore the zoo after dark.
TULSA ZOO, 6421 E. 36TH ST. N. TULSAZOO.ORG
Oct. 18, 19, 25, 26 and 31
HallowMarine
This week-long indoor trick-or-treating event is fun for all ages, so prepare to collect candy and take a look at the aquarium’s 10,000 aquatic creatures. OKLAHOMA AQUARIUM, 300 AQUARIUM DRIVE, JENKS OKAQUARIUM.ORG
Oct. 19
Brookside BooHaHa
With over 10,000 in attendance each year, the Brookside BooHaHa has become Oklahoma’s largest Halloween parade. VARIOUS LOCATIONS IN BROOKSIDE. TULSABOOHAHA.COM
Mummy and Me Dance
Dress up with the maternal figure in your life and dance the evening away at this Halloween-themed dance.
NIENHUIS PARK COMMUNITY CENTER, 3201 N. NINTH ST., BROKEN ARROW FACEBOOK.COM/NIENHUISPARK
Spooky Sprint
Spooky Sprint is a Halloween-themed running event with multiple distances from 1-mile to half-marathon. RIVERSIDE PARK, 9700 S. DELAWARE COURT RUNSIGNUP.COM/RACE/OK/TULSA/ SPOOKYSPRINTTULSA
Oct. 24
Candlelight: A Haunted Evening of Halloween Classics
This special concert of Halloween favorites will be one to remember. GERMAN-AMERICAN SOCIETY OF TULSA, 1429 TERRACE DRIVE. FEVERUP.COM/M/130988
Halloween Cocktail Class
Want to learn how to make special spooky cocktails to impress your friends? Check out the Vault’s Halloween Cocktail Class! THE VAULT, 620 S. CINCINNATI AVE. VAULTTULSA.COM
Oct. 25
“L’Inferno”
Come see the first feature-length horror film ever made with a band (Montopolis) playing the score live.
CIRCLE CINEMA, 10 S. LEWIS AVE. CIRCLECINEMA.ORG
Halloween Carnival
This family friendly event is packed with exciting activities including costume contests, carnival games and endless fun.
WHITESIDE PARK, 4009 S. PITTSBURG AVE.
TULSAPARKS.RECDESK.COM
Oct. 25-26
Halloween Hoedown
Calling all ghosts and ghouls, the Ranch is hosting a Halloween Hoedown featuring Tribe Circus Arts, a (Not) Haunted Hayride, petting zoo, candy and more.
181 RANCH, 3913 E. 181ST ST. S., BIXBY 181RANCH.COM
Oct. 26
Bixby’s Hallow(themed) Party
This community event features attractions such as carnival games and rides, inflatables, axe throwing, archery, pony rides, hayrides, caricature drawings, face painting and more.
DOWNTOWN BIXBY, 21 W. DAWES AVE. HALLOWTHEMEDPARTY.COM
Halloween Bar Crawl
It’s the ultimate Halloween party. Dress up in your most creative costumes for a night out on the town.
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS. CRAWLWITH.US
Meadow Gold Candy Cruise
A classic Halloween celebration, this event will include old time carnival games, inflatables, a makeup artist and vintage cars participating in trunk or treat.
MEADOW GOLD DISTRICT, 11TH STREET NEAR PEORIA AVENUE MEADOWGOLDDISTRICT.COM
Sparky’s Spooktacular
Bring the family and enjoy this trunk-ortreat event packed with spooky fun and excitement featuring free candy, a candy cannon, inflatables, art projects, barrel cart rides and more.
MCCLURE PARK, 7448 E. SEVENTH ST. TULSAPARKS.RECDESK.COM
Whiteside Park Howl-O-Ween
Bring your furry friend for a tail-wagging good time at Howl-O-Ween, the ultimate Halloween event for dogs which includes a costume contest and treat hunt!
WHITESIDE PARK, 4009 S. PITTSBURG AVE. TULSAPARKS.RECDESK.COM
Witch’s Ball
Don your most bewitching attire and prepare for a night of enchantment. Note: after 8 p.m. the event becomes 18-plus. WOMPA, 3306 CHARLES PAGE BLVD. WOMPATULSA.COM
Oct. 26 and 31
The Rocky Horror Picture Show (Shadow Cast)
Let’s Do the Time Warp Again! Theatre Tulsa will perform the cult classic for two special performances.
THEATRE TULSA STUDIOS, 5521 S. PEORIA AVE. THEATRETULSA.ORG
Oct. 27
PhilBOO
Families are invited to bring their little ghoulies and goblins to a frightfully fun day just for families with Halloween-themed artmaking, a silent disco dance party, self-guided Halloween tours and candy.
PHILBROOK MUSEUM OF ART, 2727 S. ROCKFORD ROAD PHILBROOK.ORG
Oct. 30
Tent or Treat
Chapman Green will be transformed into a Halloween haven where kids can trickor-treat in costume with Downtown Tulsa Farmers Market vendors.
CHAPMAN GREEN, 600 S. MAIN ST. DOWNTOWNTULSA.COM
Oct. 31-Nov. 3
“Dracula”
“Dracula” returns to Tulsa for the first time since 2018 with its haunting tale of bloodlust and romance performed by Tulsa Ballet.
TULSA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER, 110 E SECOND ST. TULSABALLET.ORG
— COMPILED BY MADISON WALTERS
Plans to transform downtown unveiled.
BY TIM LANDES
Downtown Tulsa will soon look and function better if all goes as planned. Downtown Tulsa Partnership worked with PartnerTulsa and City of Tulsa to develop the rst downtownwide planning e ort since 2010. According to DTP, Downtown Tulsa Forward was created to provide a structured approach to leveraging Tax Increment Financing revenues for public realm improvements while identifying catalytic and transformative improvement projects for downtown Tulsa over the next decade.
Guided by feedback from 300 downtown stakeholders, the plan serves as a framework for $28 million in guided and strategic investment throughout downtown to support continued growth and development of Tulsa’s economic and cultural center through 41 speci c, curated projects. Read the full report at downtowntulsa.com.
We spoke with Brian Kurtz, Downtown Tulsa Partnership CEO, about this extensive strategic plan to improve downtown.
THERE ARE MANY PROPOSED CONCEPTS OR PLANS FROM MAJOR PROJECTS LIKE REMOVING THE NORTH I-244 SEGMENT OF THE INNER DISPERSAL LOOP TO HOTEL AND RESIDENTIAL BUILDS TO STREETSCAPING. WHAT DO YOU HOPE IS THE BIGGEST TAKEAWAY FROM THIS INFORMATION? It’s two-fold. First, we need to be ambitious and visionary when planning for the downtown we want both now and in the decades to come. We are laying the groundwork for substantial changes to how downtown will look, feel and function 20 years from now. Second, our community can’t a ord to wait two decades to see these projects come to fruition. at’s why Downtown Tulsa For-
ward creates an annual action plan for public realm investments funded by the Downtown Master TIF district. We are already in planning and design for major public improvement projects — think parks, lighting and public art — that we expect to complete and celebrate within the next 12-18 months. tp
STORY AND PHOTO BY TIM LANDES
Tony Williams loves bringing people together. You don’t earn a nickname like “Mr. Greenwood” without that kind of passion for community. He can often be seen posted up along the historic street, waving at passersby and greeting folks as they enter Lefty’s on Greenwood or another store on the block.
We met at the corner of Greenwood Avenue and Archer Street on a sunny morn-
ing in September to talk about the joy the lifelong Tulsan continually nds being out and about in his hometown.
IT ALL STARTED WITH A CONVERSATION WITH BLACK WALL STREET TEES AND SOUVENIRS OWNER CLEO HARRIS AND AN AGREEMENT TO CREATE A DICK ROWLAND TEE FOR THE SHOP ... Not only did I sell my stu , I would volunteer my time there. ey make their own shirts, so I
would help them make shirts. I would notice there’s not really any action down here on Greenwood, and so I would call up my friends and tell everybody, “Hey, y’all need to come out and hang out with me on Greenwood. Let’s make this thing pop!”
IN 2020 WHEN DONALD TRUMP CAME TO TOWN, WILLIAMS MADE A SHIRT STATING “MAKE GREENWOOD GREAT AGAIN,” WHICH GOT A LOT OF ATTENTION ... My buddy Kode Ransom said “Every time you got a camera in your face you say, I’m born on Greenwood. I do business on Greenwood. is is Greenwood.” He started calling me Greenwood Williams, and the community put the “Mister” in front of it.
SOME BUSINESS OWNERS ALSO CALL HIM “MR. BLACK WALL STREET” ... At rst, I was like, I don’t deserve those names. Don’t give me that. I was kind of shy and bashful. But when I got the nod from the elders, and my peers were like, “Nah, man, you deserve this.” So I accept it, I’m Mr. Greenwood, but me being me, if I’m gonna accept something I’m gonna give it my all.
WILLIAMS, 42, IS IN HIS SECOND YEAR SERVING ON THE GREATER TULSA AFRICAN AMERICAN AFFAIRS COMMISSION. HIS PROUDEST ACCOMPLISHMENT ON THE COMMISSION TO DATE IS STARTING THE GO GREEN FOR GREENWOOD INITIATIVE FROM MAY 30-JUNE 1 ... All of downtown goes green. People wear green. People put green light bulbs on their porches. We pulled that o last year then we followed it up this year with a proclamation from Mayor G.T. Bynum, so now the city honors it as Greenwood Remembrance Day, also known as Go Green for Greenwood.
THE FORMER LONGTIME WORSHIP LEADER AT VICTORY CHURCH IS AN ENTREPRENEUR AND A COMMISSIONER WHO BELIEVES IN HIS COMMUNITY ... What happened here in 1921 was a tragedy, but we still can come together and try to move forward. at’s my goal. I feel like I’m called to be a bridge in this city, and I love it. It’s amazing that I’m in this position. I’ve been so emotional all week because I’ve been so blessed to know so many amazing people, and I’ve been so fortunate to be able to be a part of so many amazing moments. I wake up with a smile every day knowing that I’m doing my part. I’m giving my best to my city. tp
For more than 100 years, the Commerce Trust team of experienced wealth specialists has helped both individuals and institutions uncover opportunity amid increasing complexity to achieve their long-term financial goals.
Connect with Matt Farris, your dedicated Tulsa Market Executive for Commerce Trust, at (918) 879-2230 or matt.farris@commercebank.com. Learn more about our team approach to wealth management at commercetrustcompany.com/Tulsa.
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36 Degrees North reflects on rebrand as Gradient.
BY ABIGAIL SINGREY
The decision to rebrand didn’t come easily to 36 Degrees North.
President and CEO Devon Laney recognized they had a lot of name recognition and brand equity built up under that name, but didn’t feel 36 Degrees North re ected the world-class entrepreneurial institution it was evolving into.
“People think, ‘oh, that’s that coworking space,’” he says of the hub founded in 2016. “Yes, but we’re so much more than that.”
e team chose the name Gradient as a testament to the power of momentum — how the collision of unique ideas, talents, and perspectives ignites innovation and economic growth. e name perfectly
aligns with Gradient’s mission to be a hub that connects entrepreneurs, freelancers and remote workers with the resources they need to grow and thrive. By fostering individual economic development, Gradient also contributes to the growth of Tulsa’s economy. e distinctiveness of the name will help the team position their organization as a leading force in entrepreneurship on a national scale. Gradient is building on a strong foundation of success. Over the past ve years it has generated a $1 billion economic impact for Tulsa. In the calendar year 2023, Gradient supported 445 businesses. Its members created 3,206 jobs, launched 44 new products and achieved $147 million in gross sales.
With this remarkable track record, Gradient is set to continue fueling innovation and economic growth, rmly establishing itself as a cornerstone of Tulsa’s entrepreneurial community.
“ e 36 Degrees North incubator program has been a catalyst that helped launch our startup, Titan Intake, into a tangible reality,” says Patrick Bruce, co-founder and CEO of the startup, which helps patients gain access to quicker and better health care. “Being at 36 Degrees North has directly contributed to our company’s mission and success, even leading to us closing our rst round of investment with one of our lead investors located just down the hall.”
Coming this winter, Gradient will relocate and expand into a new facility. Committed to staying in the downtown community, they sought a space large enough to accommodate all their programs. ey found the perfect t located on Cheyenne Avenue at the Archer Street intersection. e building, originally constructed in the 1920s by Oklahoma Tire and Supply Co. — which was founded by three immigrant brothers — carries a rich legacy of entrepreneurship that deeply resonates with the Gradient team and its members.
“It’s a very authentic piece of Tulsa, and we wanted to breathe new life into it and bring it forward tied to entrepreneurship and innovation and the future of work for the next generation,” Laney says. e 115,000-square-foot facility is undergoing a complete remodel to create an inspiring environment tailored for entrepreneurs, startups and remote workers. Amenities will include a range of dynamic work spaces such as huddle rooms, pitch rooms and an entire wing dedicated to meeting the needs of remote workers with resources like one-person o ces and more. Every detail has been thoughtfully designed, from unlimited Topeca co ee to wellness rooms, private showers and indoor bicycle storage. At the heart of the building, a ve-story atrium with a skylight will ood the space with natural light, creating an inviting gathering area that fosters a sense of community. A 300-person event space and on-site cafe/bar will be open to the public
“It will be one of the largest dedicated innovation and entrepreneurial hubs in America, which is pretty remarkable,” Laney says. “It’s an incredible opportunity for us to build something and tell a story that we want to be impactful for generations for Tulsa.” tp
Julie Carson, a Jenks High School and TU Law alumna and wife of President Brad Carson, is serving as as the university’s community liaison.
A dedicated member of the campus community, Julie is proud to give back to her hometown by spearheading the university’s 2024 Tulsa Area United Way Campaign and serving as the honorary chair of Tulsa Mayfest 2025.
Julie has volunteered with Mayfest since 2023 when the university assumed ownership of Tulsa’s cherished celebration of arts, music, and culture and began expanding its offerings. With a goal of engaging more children and teens, she developed new and exciting hands-on activities, elevated Mayfest’s youth art competition, and moved Kids’ World inside the modern space at 101 Archer.
The University of Tulsa is devoted to serving our neighbors and city, and Julie Carson enjoys working with the many sponsors and organizations who share our commitment. To learn more about supporting Mayfest 2025, visit tulsamayfest.org.
With planning well underway, Julie Carson and the organizing committee invite you to get involved:
Students ages 5-18 are invited to apply to showcase their original work in the Youth Art Gallery.
VOLUNTEER
Register now to volunteer for beer sales, Kids’ World, artist hospitality, and more.
Join The University of Tulsa and other companies committed to supporting arts, culture, and quality of life in Oklahoma by sponsoring Mayfest 2025.
Union grad and NFL punter Tress Way remembers his roots.
BY STEPHEN HUNT
Punting has taken Tress Way to Norman to kick for the Oklahoma Sooners, to Chicago — where he began his professional career in 2013 with the Bears — and to Washington, where he has been since 2014 with the Commanders. Now in his 11th NFL season, the Union High School graduate knows the roots of his success are grounded in Tulsa.
“My dad used to have this line: Keep your head down and work hard. Keep your chin up whether you do well or don’t because you’re proud of how hard you worked and the outcomes are going to take care of themselves,” Way, 34, says. “My athletic career, it’s technically a big part of my life, but a small part of my identity. I’m a dad, husband, a believer. I’m also just a dude, but I’m very thankful God blessed me with a left leg to put a little charge into a football from time to time.”
Between 2008 and 2012, he punted for the Sooners. Twice as a professional, in 2019 and 2022, Way earned NFL Pro Bowl honors. In addition to punting, another passion is being involved in the community, especially charitable organizations helping
children since he and his wife, Brianna, are the proud parents of three.
In 2023, he and Atlanta Falcons punter Bradley Pinion teamed up for Punts for Purpose, where for every kick which was downed inside the 20-yard line, $1,000 was donated to Compassion International to combat poverty. “(Pinion) is a top-tier human being. We (my wife and I) don’t know how long football’s going to last,” Way says. “We don’t know how long our impact’s going to last, but we’re here. We’re in this moment and let’s do what we can in this moment.”
Way still has plenty of friends and family in Tulsa and there are several spots he misses frequenting in T-Town. Coney I-lander tops that list along with El Tequila Mexican Restaurant at 81st Street and Memorial Drive and Savastano’s Pizzeria. He’s also a fan of Tulsa’s live music scene. “Every time you get up-and-coming country singers (in town), you got to catch a concert at Cain’s Ballroom. at’s mandatory,” he says. Catch Tress Way’s work on CBS, ESPN, FOX or NBC on Sundays this fall. tp
Arabian Horse Association’s National Championships return to Expo Square Oct. 17-26.
Tulsa’s set to host the Arabian Horse Association’s National Championships Oct. 17-26 at Expo Square, 4145 E. 21st St. It’s free to attend and visitors are encouraged to watch these selectively bred and highly trained horses compete in different categories. Here are some facts about the second-largest competition of its kind in the U.S. that brings the best of the best Arabian and Half-Arabian horses in North America to Tulsa.
1,750 approximate number of horses that competed in 2023.
5
people accompany most horses, bringing at least 8,750 people directly involved with the competition.
10,000+ expected attendance.
3,496 stalls set up across Expo Square to hold all the horses.
45 states will be represented.
6 other countries will be represented in Tulsa this year.
1,800 approximate tons of dirt brought in for the event.
5 days after the Tulsa State Fair, horses begin moving in.
11 days after the fair ends the competition begins.
—
PAYTON IRICK
OCTOBER 12 – 13, 2024 10 AM – 5 PM
HARD ROCK HOTEL AND CASINO TULSA SEQUOYAH CONVENTION CENTER
Experience authentic Native art at one of the largest Native American art shows in Oklahoma. New work by accomplished Native artists from across the country will be on display.
Discover and enjoy their exquisite work and add to your collection with beautiful jewelry, pottery, sculptures, paintings, textiles and much more.
cherokeeartmarket.com
How the CEO of Catholic Charities pivoted from military service to civil servant.
BY CONNIE CRONLEY
It was bad luck for the U.S. military when the Berlin Wall fell in November 1989 because ROTC cadet Kevin Sartorius at Oklahoma State University had planned a military career to ght communism. Since he was no longer needed for that job, the Air Force lost a future o cer. It was good luck for Oklahoma because Sartorius redirected his instincts for selfdiscipline and service. He found a way to help people through the private sector before coming on board with Catholic Charities of Eastern Oklahoma as the development director in 2004. Now CCEOK’s CEO, he celebrates 20 years with the nonpro t.
He has led three capital campaigns that funded consolidating scattered services into one modern campus in north Tulsa and added new programs: the Porta Caeli House for the dying, a renovated food pantry and clothing center, dental clinic, counseling services, adult education, and residential facilities for pregnant women and single mothers with children. In this churning era of refugees, asylum seekers and migrants, Catholic Charities o ers a lifeline of immigration legal services and resettlement services. Instead of more expansion, future plans are to solidify existing programs and partnerships with other social services.
With an annual operating budget of $12.4 million and an additional $15 million in donated product, an endowment of just over $30 million and 7,300 volunteers, Catholic Charities serves 70,000 people each year, 85% of whom are not Catholic.
Sartorius leads the organization not with an authoritarian mindset, but with a servant’s mentality. is involves painstaking community building and grassroots work, an approach that many would say requires the patience of a saint.
Being compared to a saint would both horrify and amuse Deacon Kevin, as he is better known, although his life is centered on religious faith. His deacon’s motto is Ora et Labora, prayer and work. For Sartorius, this means: “Let’s pray about this. And then let’s go out and do something about it. Not what we want to do, but what the Lord wants us to do.” Sometimes, he admits, “that can be challenging.”
It also can be highly e ective. It enabled Catholic Charities’ impactful response to the emergencies of the 2019 oods of eastern Oklahoma, the COVID-19 pandemic and the Afghan refugee crisis.
How he reached this philosophy and place in life was a process.
His father was the longtime CEO of American Red Cross of Oklahoma at the time of the Oklahoma City bombing. Sartorius, then 24, volunteered there for several weeks. “I saw the rubble, death and destruction, but I also saw the Oklahoma spirit of coming together to help.” e image stuck. “It doesn’t take a tragic event. We’re built to care for each other.”
At age 31, the self-de ned Catholic “backbencher” attended a Cursillo retreat to take a short course on teaching lay people how to apply Christian ideals in everyday life. “It turned my world upside down,” he says. He joined Catholic Charities as development director and later was ordained as a deacon, a word of Greek origin meaning servant. “We’re called to go out into the world and help our brothers and sisters. Not to convert them, just to love them.”
Sartorius, 54, is as deliberate about his private life as he is about his faith and his work. He and his wife, Jennifer (a junior high school sweetheart), and their seven children (ages 10 to 24) choose a mindful life in the country. ey have no TV, they’re among friends and they can see the stars. tp
Riverbend neighborhood seeks cultural district designation.
BY JULIE WENGER WATSON
Just a few minutes west of downtown, o Charles Page Boulevard, is a haven for creators and a growing arts district. Mixed-use zoning, commercial buildings and proximity to the highway system make this area a practical choice for small businesses, while easy access to the city’s trail system, historic neighborhoods with a ordable housing, and ample green spaces mean it’s also family friendly. To highlight this unique community, local artists and business owners are working to establish “Riverbend Arts District” as an o cial arts and cultural district.
“We have this industrial-meets-creative neighborhood here that is just a really prime growing area for artists to live and work in,” says Rachel Rose Dazey, co-owner of
Dillon Rose Fine Jewelry, 1229 Charles Page Blvd.
Dazey, who’s been in this location for seven years, believes the district’s combination of residential and commercial zoning makes it friendly to artists.
“ e zoning is unique in this area. For two blocks on either side of Charles Page Boulevard it’s zoned commercial, which means artists can buy a house and run an arts business out of it without breaking any codes,” she says.
Chris McCabe, co-owner of Belafonte, a multi-use creative event space at 306 S. Phoenix Ave., agrees.
“Crosbie Heights and the Charles Page corridor is by far the most a ordable place to live in Tulsa that has such direct access to
the culture and arts districts of downtown,” McCabe says. “With its exible zoning and plethora of warehouses, industrial spaces and long-standing neighborhood storefronts, it o ers many a ordable opportunities for live-work spaces. e area has a palpable air of grittiness and stoutheartedness, with a pervasive DIY culture mindset — a perfect environment for entrepreneurs and creatives to thrive.”
McCabe and his wife, Erin, have purchased several more commercial and residential properties in the area since buying the building that houses Belafonte in 2023.
“We feel there is so much unrealized potential in this downtown-adjacent area. No neighborhood o ers better views of downtown with amazing accessibility to the river, trails, biking lanes, freeways, parks and Tulsa transit.”
Jackie Potter and her husband, Chad, own several properties in the area, including Station 13, a venue in a 90-year-old building that was once a re station. Potter, like Dazey and McCabe, hopes o cial recognition of the district by the city and state will bring awareness to potential businesses and consumers alike.
“We are a hidden gem on Charles Page, and we want to bring awareness to our community about all that we have to o er,” she says.
From 11 a.m.-7 p.m. on Nov. 2, this neighborhood will host a free festival. Station 13, like many of the area’s businesses, will open its doors to the public. e venue will have food and a DJ. Belafonte will host live music and comedy performances, as well as yoga, DIY workshops and artist presentations. According to Dazey, who’ll host activities at her studio, Lime Scooters will be extending their service boundaries for the day to encompass the new district, allowing riders to travel as far as coworking and event space WOMPA and Station 13.
For more information, visit dillonrose. com, jpottercollective.com and belafontetulsa.com. tp
It’s been a big year for Wilderado. The band has a song on the “Twisters” soundtrack and vocalist Max Rainer made a cameo in the smash hit sequel filmed in Oklahoma. On Sept. 20, the band released a highly anticipated sequel of its own with “Talker.”
Rainer spoke with TulsaPeople about a very eventful summer that has led into a busy fall. When the Tulsa band takes the stage at Cain’s Ballroom on Oct. 26, it will be the third time Wilderado has played the historic venue, but the first time for them to headline on their own.
“That’s going to feel really, really special and accomplished. It’s funny. Yesterday my wife and I were sitting in the car line getting ready to pick up the girls when I got a note from our manager, and I was telling her ‘Isn’t it wild to think back of all the times I’ve played coffee shops, pizza places, and the amount of places I’ve played in Tulsa where you look around, and it’s only your friends, mom and dad and siblings, and it’s just crazy to think we’re moving 1,600 tickets at a place here?’ It’s amazing. It’s really special.”
Read the full interview with Rainer at TulsaPeople.com. — TIM LANDES
Local band debuts new name and sound.
STORIES BY JULIE WENGER WATSON
With a new lineup, fresh music and an indie spin on the resonator guitar, Jasper Wilderness is now Mingo Drive. Band members Justin Scott (vocals and keys), Jacob Brallier (Dobro), Jeremy Pelotte (drums) and Sam Bowling (bass) are taking their sound in a new direction, and “Color Blind Stories,” their melodic summer single, proves change is a catalyst for creativity.
Where Jasper Wilderness leaned toward Southern- avored alt-rock, Mingo Drive rides in the indie-pop lane. Brallier says the band’s music has changed with Scott’s move to lead vocals.
“Our music is shaped very strongly by whomever the lead singer is, and Justin has a clear voice that’s very emotive,” Brallier says. “He puts his own spin on the songs, and we work around his vocals.”
Brallier’s Dobro, a type of resonator guitar more often associated with bluegrass and country than it is with pop, has also moved front and center.
“ e Dobro is our guitar section,” Bowling says. “We’re experimenting and
trying to push the boundaries of what the Dobro can do, and not trying to hide it behind layers of other electric guitars.”
Brallier, originally a bluegrass musician, is enjoying the chance to explore new territory.
“My background is not indie music, so when we develop these songs, it’s very much from raw creativity,” Brallier says. “When I’m playing this music it’s completely opposite sometimes of what I listen to, and so from that place the meshing of the two creates some wonderful anomalies.”
Bowling says the band’s writing process is very collaborative. With “Color Blind Stories,” the song was built around an audio le shared by their drummer, Pelotte.
“Justin put his own stamp on it, changing some lyrics and melodies, then we added some di erent rhythms and bass guitar, di erent sounds to make the song sound more crisp and more our style.
en Jacob came in and wrote what’s probably the most important part of the song, the Dobro melodies and lead lines, which completely changed the feel,” Bowling says.
e longtime friends and Tulsans originally formed Jasper Wilderness in February 2020. Bowling, Scott and Pelotte have been best friends and playing music together since they were 10 years old.
ey met Brallier while in college.
e band plans to release more singles over the next few months, with an ultimate goal of building a strong live set and performing.
“Music is a beautiful way to connect and touch people’s lives,” Brallier says.
For more information, visit Instagram @mingodrive_. tp
Carl Antonowicz and Todd Woodlan
Carl Antonowicz and Todd Woodlan are “One Aux,” an experimental open mic with a focus on inclusion for both artists and genres. The pair started One Aux in 2023 out of a shared affection for the local noise music scene and a desire to create a space for musicians, particularly artists from underrepresented social groups, to share their music; the more unconventional, the better. By the end of the first year One Aux had showcased 26 hours of performances from more than 50 artists.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE PART OF THIS WORK?
CA: I treat every One Aux performance like a little gift because they are! We don’t have the budget to pay our performers pretty much ever, so they’re volunteering their art for the sheer joy of sharing it with an audience (plus that extremely tangible and useful currency, exposure). It’s this enthusiasm that feeds me and keeps my energy up.
TW: My favorite part is seeing how supportive and creative everyone is. We’ve had so many artists come through who haven’t performed in years and are nervous about starting up again, but they always do an amazing job and the crowd is into it. And then we see those performers coming back to One Aux, or getting more shows around town, and it’s just great to feel like we’re a part of empowering someone to start performing again or getting out there for the first time. tp
One Aux’s experimental open mic happens monthly at Heirloom Rustic Ales, 2113 E. Admiral Blvd. Additional curated shows happen around town. Find out more on Instagram at @one.aux.
VISIT TULSAPEOPLE.COM
BY TIFFANY HOWARD
Wyatt Dunham is taking the classic saying “work hard, play hard” to heart — or should that be hand? As a CPA working primarily in the indirect tax area, he creates Lego masterpieces in the form of instantly recognizable Tulsa buildings during his free time.
“I loved Legos as a kid. Now that I’m working and have more disposable income, the kids’ (Legos) are fun and all, but they’re kind of generic,” the 29-year-old says, adding he began to wonder what projects he could create with Tulsa as the inspiration. e idea for his rst build came in January 2023 while talking with friend and Tulsa artist Karl Jones, curator of Go Fest. After touring the Tulsa Spotlight eater — which Bruce Go designed — Dunham decided to try his hand at recreating the
iconic art deco theater.
“My rst idea was one-Lego thick. But I was like, ‘this looks awful.’ It needed some depth, so I xed that. And then trying to get that little window just right,” Dunham says. ough he was happy with the structure he also wanted to show what it was used for, so in addition to the blue-walled lobby, he built out the interior of the theater — purple walls, chairs, piano, real stage lights and all. e front of the theater is now on display at Tulsa International Airport, across from Chili’s.
Next up was e Mayo Hotel, which was originally inspired by a build he’d seen of Oklahoma City’s Skirvin Hotel. It took about six weeks to complete and contains approximately 25,000 bricks, he says. On the inside, a Lego mini gure can be seen playing the piano as a bride and groom come down
the stairs. e second- oor landing area is built out and visible above the couple, and below Dunham painstakingly reconstructed the tile pattern of the lobby oor. e working, iconic “Mayo” rooftop light is the cherry on top.
ough the Mayo’s 52-inch-tall walls were partially completed with the help of 35 friends during a build party, his next and most recent build — a 7-foot-long, 50,000-piece recreation of Black Wall Street — wasn’t as feasible for others to have a hand in due to its sheer complexity and detail.
Commissioned by the Black Wall Street Alliance, Dunham’s intricately envisioned, nearly 200-pound structure depicts the buildings on Greenwood as they appear today, but with the businesses imagined as they were prior to the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre.
Dunham based his artist’s interpretation o of historical photos, and from the sidewalk plaques on Greenwood commemorating and explaining what each of the businesses were prior to the massacre. Mini interior tableaus depict scenes of daily life in the prosperous district, such as a man getting a haircut at Rev. C.L. Netherland’s barbershop, patrons enjoying a meal at the Bryant Eatery and a wedding taking place at Hotel Gurley.
“It is the perfect piece to inspire all to engage in the rich regenerative legacy of entrepreneurship that is our Greenwood Black Wall Street, Tulsa, Oklahoma, America for every generation,” says Lincoln Cochran, BWSA executive producer.
What’s next? Dunham says he’s bought some pink bricks for a potential build of the bygone Camelot Inn, and also likes the idea of recreating the campus library of Oklahoma State University (his alma mater), complete with a working fountain.
Check out more photos and follow along on Instagram @legobuildsok. tp
A lifelong artist, Johnnie Diacon’s pieces are inspired by his dreams and his culture.
BY PAYTON IRICK
Johnnie Diacon (Muscogee) recently dreamed of a 3D painting of a bison spirit. He soon went to work recreating his vision by painting the bison’s spirit body and a xing a real beaded skull to it with a group of Muscogee people performing a traditional bison dance in the background.
is piece and more of his works will be for sale at the 19th annual Cherokee Art Market on Oct. 12-13 at Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, 777 W. Cherokee St., in Catoosa.
Diacon grew up surrounded by art. His father was a painter who hand-lettered signs in Arkansas and introduced his son to the art world. Diacon and his parents noticed he was struggling to see at a young age. He was found to be nearsighted, and the day the 11-year-old received his glasses was the rst time he could see the entire room.
“I was looking all around because I could nally see,” Diacon says. “I saw all these paintings of Indians in the old at-style (a painting style with emphasis on form or shape with minimal perspective and shading) and thought they were the greatest thing I ever saw.”
By the time Diacon was in high school,
he was creating his at-style pieces. After graduation, he was on a trip from Arkansas to Oklahoma, and he stopped at a gallery to chat with the workers there who asked him if he had entered any art shows. When he explained he had not, he was handed applications for various shows. He applied and sent artwork for three shows, and all his work was sold. He continued to create new pieces and attended art shows but felt he could do more.
Diacon graduated from Bacone College in 1990, and though he wanted to continue his education, life got in the way. But his wife, Nikki, stepped in with the encouragement.
“She asked me, ‘Do you ever think about going back to school?’ and I said, ‘I always wanted to go to the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe,’” Diacon recalls. “She said, ‘Well, why don’t you do it?’”
He started at IAIA in 1997 and graduated in 1999. Diacon calls his style Native or Muscogee art. He paints scenes of Muscogee people in everyday life — from xing a truck to working in health care.
“I wanted to create something people could relate to,” he says.
Learn more at cherokeeartmarket.com.
It’s been nine years since Marine veteran Kenneth and his wife Renee Navarro appeared on the cover of TulsaPeople Magazine, graciously allowing readers to get a glimpse of their lives as foster parents. In 2015 the couple, already with a blended family of eight biological children between them, had taken in a total of 33 foster children, eight of whom they had adopted.
Those eight children — Angel (21), Faith (18), Malik (18), John (17), Ana (16), Hope (14), Jacob (13) and Conner (11) — are growing up too fast, says Kenneth, who had just dropped one off to his first job at Taco Bell before speaking with us.
Since gracing the cover, the couple has welcomed more foster children into their home, making for a total of 37 kids they’ve cared for over the years. The couple hasn’t let age get in the way of their life’s calling. Kenneth, now 84, says his secret to staying young is the children he takes care of.
A lifelong Christian, Kenneth felt called to give back. “It’s a blessing to do this for other people,” he says, “When I read the Bible and when Jesus was on Earth, he helped the blind, the sick and the poor; he helped everybody. He never turned anybody down. If we can help somebody, especially the children, because they have their whole life ahead of them, then we do whatever we can.”
Kenneth credits his wife for being his rock over the past 22 years and mentions that one of his favorite things to do is watch her sing karaoke because “she has quite the talented voice.”
— MADISON WALTERS
Since 2021, Congregation B’nai Emunah’s resettlement agency has assisted 616 individuals.
BY ANNE BROCKMAN
This month marks the High Holiday season in the Jewish faith. At Congregation B’nai Emunah, 1719 S. Owasso Ave., that means services, youth programs and meals that bring the community together.
One such holiday is Sukkot, a harvest festival that includes members of the congregation, guests and, now, those in the refugee community. Last year’s feast included Ukrainian soup, Afghan dumplings, Burmese sweet pudding, Syrian salad and more with each course presented by a refugee helped by the synagogue. Each refugee talked about how meaningful that food item was for their culture, for their family or for them in their journey to the United States.
Two years earlier at the 2021 Yom Kippur service, Principal Rabbi Dan Kaiman spoke to his congregation about his vision for B’nai to settle refugees.
“For a lot of Americans, but in particular a lot of Jews, we are immigrants,” congregant Terry Marcum says. “When he did this sermon, it spoke to me and I thought, ‘OK, this is a project I de nitely want to be involved in.’ And then Afghanistan happened.”
When it was announced more than 850 Afghan humanitarian parolees would arrive in the Tulsa metro, B’nai was already becoming a partner agency of HIAS, an international nonpro t refugee protection organization. In 2021, it became the only synagogue-run resettlement agency in the U.S. and is one of three programs currently operating in Tulsa, including Catholic
Charities of Eastern Oklahoma and Rising Village. Four other resettlement agencies function in the state — including Oklahoma City’s Temple B’nai Israel, now the second synagogue in the nation to do this work.
B’nai’s program started with resettling 61 Afghan humanitarian parolees in one year, says Director of Refugee Resettlement Genevieve Jaber. e next year it was 100 people. is year’s goal was 175. Jaber says they have resettled 174 people for the scal year that ends Sept. 30. e U.S. admissions ceiling for scal year 2024 was 125,000.
“We resettle all people, regardless of their religion or background,” Jaber says. According to HIAS and the State Department, a refugee is someone who has been forced to ee their home country due to persecution on account of their religion, race, political opinion or membership in a particular social group such as those who are LGBTQ+.
Along with an 11-member sta , a group of 80 volunteers regularly assist with home setups, transportation, cultural orientation classes, mentoring newly arrived families, assisting with in-kind donations and other duties. Volunteers Marcum, Brenda Rhea and Jackie Lasky often can be found in B’nai’s warehouse where donations of goods are stored. is includes basic necessities like toiletries, towels, dishes and some furniture items, many of which are gently used or new via the Program’s Amazon wishlist.
Rhea loves getting the chance to set up a kitchen. “Everybody puts in their best e ort to make it really comfortable given
what these people have gone through,” she says. “Remember your rst apartment? How you got those keys and that was your place?
Imagine these families having that.”
B’nai’s Refugee Resettlement Program tries to supply everything a person needs so that the refugee’s money can remain untouched for things like rent, utilities and other resettlement costs.
What B’nai does to help is just what the congregation does, according to Lasky. “Tikkun olam,” a Hebrew phrase that means to “repair the world,” is ingrained within the community. “It’s so a part of you that you don’t even really have to say it,” she says.
Starting Oct. 1, B’nai expects to serve 150 individual refugees, as well as Ukrainian humanitarian parolees and transfers from other resettlement agencies. Jaber expects 250-300 individuals will be served by the program in scal year 2025. She says there’s an overwhelming need globally to assist refugees.
“ ere’s nothing easy about what (the refugees are) doing or what we’re doing to help them,” she continues. “But the thing that really keeps me going is seeing just how quickly people can build. If you give them an opportunity to grow, they will grow. ey will thrive. ey are resilient. If you give them a chance to be empowered, they will nd their con dence again.”
Along with the Refugee Resettlement Program, B’nai supports a Ukrainian Initial Services Program that serves Ukrainian humanitarian parolees who may not have access to rental assistance, case management or other resources. ey have helped 200 families in the two years of the program. tp
Those interested in supporting the program can do so by donating goods, lending financial support or volunteering their time. Learn more at tulsagogue.com/refugee-resettlement.
“How
In this innovative and timely talk, Jad Abumrad explores the art of conversation. For the past year, he’s been deep diving into the art of interviewing. Not just how journalists in his industry do it, but how do therapists do it? Salespeople? Hostage negotiators? Social workers? What are the techniques we can all steal and use in our own lives when having difficult conversations with fellow humans? He’ll share insights, play clips, and even lead the audience through interactive games.
Free admission. Free parking. Open to the public.
Register for priority seating. utulsa.edu/pls-abumrad
OCTOBER 8 7:30 P.M.
Lorton Performance Center • 550 S. Gary Place
State legislator-turned-governor-turned-senator left a legacy that remains in downtown Tulsa.
BY MICHAEL OVERALL
It was February 1979 when a group of prominent Tulsans, including former Mayor Robert LaFortune, wanted to honor their peer and friend before it was too late.
Diagnosed with lung cancer, Dewey Bartlett had decided not to run for re-election to the U.S. Senate, as doctors also had recently discovered a lesion on his brain. Local civic leaders wanted to show Tulsa’s gratitude while Bartlett was still around to see it.
Born in March 1919, Bartlett grew up in Ohio where his father started Keener Oil Co., but he got to know Oklahoma by working as a roughneck between semesters at Princeton University in the 1940s. By 1951, he was vice president of Keener Oil, which had moved its corporate operations to Tulsa shortly before World War II.
Bartlett’s political career started after he tried to convince several well-known Tulsa Republicans to run for the Oklahoma Senate in 1962, but nobody wanted to face certain defeat. Tulsa, at the time, was a heavily Democratic city in a heavily Democratic state where Republicans were outnumbered almost 8 to 1.
“I looked at myself in the mirror one morning,” Bartlett is quoted as saying in the Tulsa World, “and gured if I had the guts enough to ask someone else, I ought to consider it myself.”
Despite the disadvantage of being a Republican, Bartlett won by an impressive 10,000 votes, and he quickly earned a reputation as a tireless legislator by introducing 23 bills during his rst year at the Capitol.
In 1966 Bartlett became the rst Catholic and only the second Republican to ever win
the governor’s race in Oklahoma, emphasizing education at a time when nearly 40% of students dropped out before graduating from high school. Making good on campaign promises, he nearly doubled the state’s education budget during his four years in o ce.
A Tulsa World editorial, however, once described Bartlett as “an unlikely prospect for political success.”
“Admittedly no orator, his speech was sometimes hesitant to the point of shyness,” the newspaper said. “Backslapping salesmanship and showmanship were simply not his style.”
Nonetheless, Bartlett defeated Oklahoma Congressman Ed Edmondson in 1972 to win a seat in the U.S. Senate, and he most likely would have easily won re-election if not for the shocking diagnosis in January 1977.
Tulsa o cials eagerly agreed to name a local landmark after Bartlett. But which one?
Conversations soon focused on two possibilities.
Tulsa opened Model Park in the spring of 1977 near Riverside Drive and the 21st Street bridge, where a bicycle path, playground and small amphitheater served as a “model’ for the future development of River Parks. Some o cials suggested Bartlett Park would make a more suitable name.
Others recommend putting his name on the new urban plaza at Fifth and Main streets, the center of Tulsa’s then-new pedestrian mall that featured shade trees and a waterfall fountain.
LaFortune and his friends decided Model Park would eventually be overshadowed by other developments along the Arkansas River while Main Street would remain a prominent location for many decades to come.
City commissioners voted Feb. 23, 1979, to name it Bartlett Square, in time for him to know it. Bartlett, however, didn’t live to see the dedication ceremony. He died March 1, 1979, a few weeks before his 60th birthday.
Dewey Bartlett Jr., who would serve as Tulsa mayor from 2009-2016, re-dedicated the square in April 2005 after the city removed the pedestrian mall. e new Bartlett Square featured a smaller fountain inside of a tra c circle, but remains the heart of the historic Deco District.
“My father was a product of downtown Tulsa,” Bartlett Jr. said during the ceremony. “All the good things he did were really a product of what he learned in the business community of Tulsa and the oil and gas community.” tp
1-DEC. 8
Toys for Tots
Benefits Marine Corps Reserve’s Toys for Tots. toysfortots.org
1-31
Autumn in the Botanic Garden
Benefits Tulsa Botanic Garden. tulsabotanic.org
3
A Concert Under the Stars
Benefits Blessings to Share Foundation. blessingstoshare.org
Hope Floats
Benefits New Hope Oklahoma. newhopeoklahoma.org
Party with a Purpose
Benefits USA BMX Foundation. usabmxfoundation.org
Silver Link Awards
Benefits Public Relations Society of America — Tulsa Chapter. prsatulsa.com
Tatas, Tinis and Tennis
Benefits Oklahoma Project Woman. oklahomaprojectwoman.org
4
The Canopy
Benefits Up With Trees. upwithtrees.org
Tiger Tailgate
Benefits Broken Arrow Public Schools Foundation. bapsfoundation.org
Tulsa Beach Party
Benefits Circle of Care. circleofcare.org
5 Joys to the World Run
Benefits Joys to the World. joystotheworld.org
Noche de Gala
Benefits Hispanic American Foundation of Tulsa. haftulsa.org
Rally Cry — 1 Mile Walk for Survivors
Benefits the Demand Project Tulsa. thedemandproject.org
Tulsa Dog Run
Benefits Parkside Psychiatric Hospital and Clinic. tulsadogrun.com
7
Pro-Am Golf Tournament
Benefits Ronald McDonald House Charities of Tulsa. rmhctulsa.org
Restore Hope Golf Tournament
Benefits Restore Hope. restorehope.org
Tulsa Hall of Fame
Benefits Tulsa Historical Society and Museum. tulsahistory.org/hof
10
Dinner With Friends
Benefits Meals on Wheels. mealsonwheelstulsa.org
Fall Fest
Benefits Little Light House. littlelighthouse.org
Porch Party
Benefits Lindsey House. lindseyhouse.org
Taste of Brookside
Benefits Youth Services of Tulsa. yst.org/taste-of-brookside
11
Hues For HOPE
Benefits The Global Foundation for Peroxisomal Disorders. huesforhope.org
Moonstruck
Benefits Clarehouse. clarehouse.org
Zoo Nights
Benefits Tulsa Zoo. tulsazoo.org
12
Charity Gala
Benefits Good Samaritan Health Services. goodsamaritanhealth.org
Laps for Little Ones
Benefits Little Light House. littlelighthouse.org
Rainbow Run
Benefits Oklahomans for Equality. okeq.org
12-13
Brush Creek Bazaar
Benefits Teen Challenge of Oklahoma. brushcreekbazaar.com
14
BAPSF annual Golf Tournament
Benefits Broken Arrow Public Schools Foundation. bapsfoundation.org
18
Frightful Night: A Corks and Kegs Event
Benefits Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. cff.org
18-20, 25-27
HallowZOOeen
Benefits Tulsa Zoo. tulsazoo.org
18, 19, 25, 26, 31
Hallowmarine
Benefits Oklahoma Aquarium. okaquarium.org
19
Fall Carnival
Benefits Pathways Adult Learning Center. pathwaysok.org
Kendall Whittier Arts Festival
Benefits Kendall Whittier Main Street. visitkendallwhittier.com
Mutt Strut
Benefits Domestic Violence Intervention Services. dvis.org
Run the Streets Woolaroc 8K
Benefits Woolaroc Museum and Nature Preserve. woolaroc.org
21
Annual Golf Tournament
Benefits Operation Hope Prison Ministry. ohpm.org
22
Trivia for a Cause
Benefits Pause4Paws. pause4pawsok.org
24
Dinner with Chef Alexandre Figueira
Benefits Tulsa Botanic Garden. tulsabotanic.org
25-NOV. 3
Care Card
Benefits Family and Children’s Services. carecardok.com
26
Fall Gala/30th Anytown Anniversary
Benefits Oklahoma Center for Community and Justice. occjok.org
27
50’s Tulsa: A Stroll Down Memory Lane
Benefits Sherwin Miller Museum of Jewish Art. jewishmuseumtulsa.org/gala2024
Gold as Ice Bene t Game
Benefits Gold as Ice. goldasice.org
28
Tee It Up For Tim Golf Tournament
Benefits Oklahoma Parkinson’s Alliance. oklahomapa.org
30
Stories of Hope Luncheon
Benefits Hearts for Hearing. heartsforhearing.org
ARTINI Approximately 450 guests gathered at The University of Tulsa’s Center for the Humanities on Aug. 10 for ARTini, Arts Alliance Tulsa’s premier fundraising event of the year. Featuring a unique — and plentiful — array of martini tastings, attendees also were treated to live music from HeartWerk, an art auction and local cuisine from 12 restaurants. ARTini’s main goal is to draw attention and help support 40-plus local arts organizations through raising critical funding needed to keep these programs active. 1: Sunny Cearley, president and CEO of Allied Arts OKC; Todd Cunningham, executive director of
Alliance Tulsa; and Amber Sharples, executive director of Oklahoma Arts Council 2: Art piece “Spring” was auctioned off during ARTini. 3: 2-ounce martinis that guests enjoyed during the event. 4: Tracia Forrest, president of Artisan Fine Wine and Spirits 5: David Wilson and artist Nichole Montgomery 6: Attendees dressed in cocktail attire and 12 local restaurants catered the food. 7: Guests Lisa Mogelnicki and Cheryl Turski 8: Joel Wright and Bob Fleischman of Chrysalis Salon and Spa with Forrest
LIP SYNC BATTLE AND AUCTION Pathways Adult Learning Center students showed off their lip sync and dancing skills at Pathways’ Lip Sync Battle and Auction on Aug. 22 at the Broken Arrow Armed Forces Reserve Center. More than $30,000 was raised for the Christian program that is celebrating 15 years of dedicated work of enhancing the quality of life for adults with intellectual disabilities. 1: Pathways student Michael Eskridge takes a picture in the Peachy Photobooth. 2: Presenting sponsor Burnett Home Improvement’s employees perform. They earned Best Costume. 3: News On 6 meteorologist Megan Gold served as emcee for the event. 4: Trevor Hay, Pathways student,
and Kelly Monaghan, Pathways board member, share jokes between lip sync performances. 5: Christian Timm, Pathways student, and Jeff Gaffen, Pathways teacher, perform “Sweet Caroline,” which earned the duo the Judges’ Choice Award. 6: Pathways staff perform the “Ghostbusters” theme song. 7: Ashliann Peyton, Pathways student, and her nephew Jase Dilbeck perform “Rock ‘N’ Roll.” 8: Pathways student Tessa Griffin receives the Audience Choice Award from Executive Director Monique Scraper. Tessa performed “Shake It Off,” which also won Best Dance Moves.
It takes a
The Tulsa Hall of Fame welcomes its 38th class this month.
BY TIFFANY HOWARD
Astory collector who spoke with hilarity and heart as a radio personality. A couple’s parental love that lit the way down a pioneering path. A CEO whose enterprising drive helps strengthen the Muscogee Nation.
A foundation leader who has passionately served her community since her time as a Brownie. And a community advocate with business acumen so sharp he has been named among the 50 most powerful African Americans in corporate America.
e passions of these six Tulsans have so impacted their respective communities they are being inducted into Tulsa Historical Society and Museum’s 38th Tulsa Hall of Fame. e o cial induction ceremony and celebratory dinner is Oct. 7 at Southern Hills Country Club.
“Hall of Famers have done inspirational work, sel essly, to build up Tulsa and Tulsans,” says Daphne Dowdy, director of development for Tulsa Historical Society and Museum. “ is year’s inductees are fun and funny. Dedicated, creative, determined, welcoming and visionary. It’s the Tulsa Hall of Fame. Would you expect anything less?”
Combs is a dual force for Tulsa as both a passionate community leader and prominent C-suite executive in energy and business. Prior to his current role as CEO and managing partner of COMSTAR Advisors — an Oklahoma-based management advisory and private investment rm — his former positions include president of ONEOK Distribution Cos. (now ONE Gas) and president of Oklahoma Natural Gas Co. During his career Combs has experienced many “ rsts,” such as becoming the rst African American to lead a prominent public utility company in the state’s history and, as co-developer of luxury apartments e Flats on Archer in the Tulsa Arts District, he became the rst and only African American developer in the district.
Twice, Black Enterprise magazine has recognized Combs as one of the most powerful African Americans in corporate America. “It is a wonderful honor personally, but the true value is hopefully it allows me to mentor and inspire others to believe that they can be from Oklahoma and aspire to the highest levels of corporate leadership,” he says.
Partially growing up in north Tulsa, Combs’ father was one of the early Black mailmen in the area. “My parents and grandmother were excellent role models in their community and church. ey taught me why it is important and how it should be done,” he says.
In the community Combs serves as the board chair for Tulsa Community College Board of Regents, board vice president for the John Hope Franklin Center for Reconciliation, and chair of Greenwood Rising’s board of directors, among others.
“Having been inspired by the resilience and new energy in (Greenwood), it feels natural to o er my talents and business skills now to help in some manner.”
Recently recognized as one of the “Top 30 CEOs In Indian Country” by Native Business Magazine, Crofts has been leading Muscogee Nation Gaming Enterprises as CEO since 2011. Under the Utah native’s leadership, the organization employs more than 2,200 people across its 10 entertainment, gaming and resort facilities which, altogether, generate a yearly economic impact of over $150 million.
Prior to moving to Tulsa, Crofts already had nearly four decades of leadership experience in the gaming and hospitality industry. His career began in Las Vegas as a CPA auditing gaming operations.
He has held numerous executive and C-suite roles for multi -property gaming companies throughout the United States, Central America, the Caribbean and Asia.
“All of these experiences provided me with an extensive background in development, construction, nancing and operations of the gaming industry, which prepared me to assume a role in the Oklahoma Tribal gaming industry with the Muscogee Nation,” Crofts says. “We have been very successful in developing new gaming properties as well as improving existing facilities. is has resulted in gaming operations being able to contribute much more to the Muscogee Nation to support programs such as health, housing, education, veterans and other citizen services.”
Erling, a North Dakota native, came to Tulsa in 1976 when he heard about an opening on KRMG radio. For the next 30 years he hosted “Erling in the Morning,” inventing schticks so hilariously memorable they became legendary, like “Ski the Tulsa Mountains.”
But as funny as some of Erling’s radio bits were, his compassion was just as serious. He often hosted on-air fundraisers for those in need, raising well over $1 million during his tenure.
“What I learned about humanity (through) radio is that to the core people are very caring and helpful,” he says.
Erling interviewed people from all walks of life on everything from local matters to hot-button national topics, striving to create a safe space for all listener voices to be heard.
“We need to practice patience, be compassionate and realize there is strength in diverse perspectives,” he says. “We need to be good listeners.”
Erling’s focus now centers on his oral history preservation platform Voices of Oklahoma, where he shares his interviews with everyone from in uential state gures to everyday Oklahomans with in uential stories. Voices of Oklahoma has become a trusted source for news organizations such as Tulsa World, National Public Radio and e New York Times.
In addition to his induction into the Tulsa Hall of Fame, Erling has been inducted into both the Oklahoma Historians Hall of Fame and Oklahoma Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame, which also named him “Tulsa’s No. 1 all-time radio personality.”
As the daughter of F. Roger and Donna Hardesty, founders of the Hardesty Family Foundation, Hardesty serves as the Foundation’s executive director and has a lifetime appointment on the board. She steers the vision behind the organization’s charitable giving, often bringing an innovative, holistic approach to trauma recovery and emotional well-being through mindfulness practices like yoga.
“I connect trauma informed teachers with the charities we support,” says Hardesty, who is also a 200-hour certi ed yoga instructor. “ e therapy you can get through yoga has proven to speed up the other interventions that the charities are providing.”
Outside of work she continues to serve her community on the boards of multiple organizations (Leadership Oklahoma, Because We Care, Oklahoma Hall of Fame) and is a member and past president of Funders Roundtable grantmaking association. Her additional passions include the Tulsa City-County Library system, Tulsa Zoo and USA BMX. But projects like Tulsa Sobering Center and Oklahoma State University’s National Center for Wellness and Recovery are especially close to her heart.
“ ere is nothing more ful lling than bringing someone back from the brink of hell or death and seeing them nd purpose and peace in their lives,” she says, adding she just received her 21-year sobriety medallion. “I have worked with many women one-on-one. It is the most important work I do personally.”
When the Mitchells’ daughter Missy was born visually impaired in 1970, there were no early intervention services for children under the age of 6 in Tulsa at that time. To solve this critical problem, the couple began to dream and pray along with Pat and Sheryl Poole — another young couple whose daughter had limited vision — establishing the Little Light House in 1972. For over 50 years LLH has been providing special needs children ages 6 and under with access to therapeutic services and highly specialized education, all on a tuition-free basis.
“Deciding to start such a program ourselves, when we knew we had no knowledge of how to go about it, meant taking a giant leap in faith and daring to believe in God for a 20th century miracle,” Marcia says.
Beginning with barely $3,000, one teacher, ve volunteers and ve students, LLH now serves 250 students per year in a 60,000-squarefoot facility — every inch of which is designed to meet the needs of children with physical and mental challenges. e LLH model has become so in uential it is internationally known, and a liate facilities now exist in Mississippi and Kentucky, with another proposed to open in Oklahoma City next year.
“Over the past ve decades, we’ve learned to never underestimate the power of God,” Marcia says.
Marcia’s book “Milestones and Miracles” chronicles her and Phil’s LLH journey in detail. ough they are both retired, they remain active, honorary members on the LLH board of directors and serve in a mentoring capacity to the sta . tp
A look at the property owners occupying our city center in 2024.
BY MICHAEL OVERALL
In the early 1980s engineers borrowed an idea from the shipbuilding industry to design a skyscraper for downtown Tulsa, sti ening the inner core with giant steel plates that were connected to the exterior walls by outrigger trusses, similar to the way oil tankers are built.
e innovative structure was meant to withstand a direct hit from a tornado, a comforting thought for people who would work inside what was supposed to become Oklahoma’s tallest building.
e Cities Service Co. headquarters, now known as ONEOK Plaza at Fifth Street and Boulder Avenue, was originally planned to include 52 oors and stand 712 feet tall, beating the Bank of Oklahoma Tower by 45 feet.
Construction had reached only 16 stories, however, when falling oil prices forced Cities Service to merge with another oil company and abandon the project. ONEOK bought the property at a bargain price of $9 million in 1983, a real estate deal that proved to be a historic turning point for downtown.
Before the Oil Bust, property values were climbing higher and higher along with the Tulsa skyline. en oil prices plummeted from $29 a barrel in March 1983 to less than $12 in December 1986, and downtown real estate prices fell just as far.
Property values and market rates didn’t recover until well into the 21st century, says Brian Kurtz , CEO and president of Downtown Tulsa Partnership.
“It’s a largely unique situation to Tulsa,” Kurtz says. “What we see happening today with vacancies and work to convert o ce space to residential remains rooted in the energy bust of the 1980s.”
In many ways, Kurtz says, the Oil Bust is still shaping who owns downtown Tulsa.
Maurice Kanbar, the late San Francisco-based real estate mogul and the creator of SKYY Vodka, shocked Tulsa when he launched a buying spree of downtown buildings in August 2005, eventually investing at least $127 million. By 2010, Kanbar owned at least 18 Tulsa buildings, including such iconic landmarks as the art deco Philcade Building, 501 S. Boston Ave., and the midcentury modern First Place Tower, 15 E. Fifth St. He controlled approximately 31% of all downtown real estate, amounting to 2.3 million square feet of o ce space, according to the Tulsa World.
Local o cials took it as an encouraging sign that an out-of-town investor saw such value in downtown, but of course Kanbar would not have been able to accumulate so many buildings if they had not been severely underpriced, Kurtz says.
Property values bene tted local investors, too. e Snyder family, led by brothers John and Jim, purchased the then-vacant Mayo Hotel, 115 W. Fifth St., for only $250,000 in 2001. e Mayo reopened in late 2009 after a $42 million renovation, and the Snyders also invested in the former City Hall, which is now Aloft Hotel; the historic YMCA building, which became the Y Lofts; and several other downtown landmarks.
Similarly, BAM Properties, managed by the father-and-son team of John and Chris Bumgarner, owns what was once dubbed “the Heart of the Magic Empire” at Fourth Street and Boston Avenue with a portfolio that includes the 320 South Boston Building, the Kennedy Building and the copper-roofed Mid-Continent Tower.
“For a city of our size,” Kurtz says, “it’s somewhat unusual to see multiple families owning such a large percentage of o ce towers in a downtown environment. ere’s vested interest beyond pro t margins.”
e e ects of the Oil Bust, lingering into the 2010s, allowed buyers to accumulate portfolios that simply wouldn’t be a ordable in other cities. Kanbar’s investment in Tulsa, however, proved to
be disappointing. Many of his properties continued to sit vacant, and he eventually demolished two storefront buildings along Main Street. Ultimately, he sold all of his Tulsa buildings to Price Family Properties in 2016 for an estimated $62 million.
“I have always looked in wonderment at downtown Tulsa’s skyline and the architecturally signi cant buildings that remain,” says Stuart Price, chairman of Price Family Properties.
With 13 buildings, including the 41-story First Place Tower, and the 32-story former Bank of America tower at 15 W. Sixth St., PFP controls roughly 50% of the central business district’s commercial real estate. e company has converted four historic buildings into apartments and opened three new parking garages.
“Envisioning the possibilities,” Price says, “has consumed us over the last 13 years.”
Taking advantage of an unexpected opportunity, First Presbyterian members voted in March 1994 to buy the Masonic Temple that occupied nearly half a square block across the street from the church at 709 S. Boston Ave.
In more prosperous times, the congregation could not have hoped to a ord such a large property near the middle of the historic business district. But the former temple, now known as the Bernsen Community Life Center, was part of a wider trend in the 1990s that turned a handful of local churches into some of the biggest property owners in downtown Tulsa to this day.
Boston Avenue United Methodist, for example, bought the former Fred Jones Ford dealership to create 5 acres of parking northeast of the iconic art deco church at 1301 S. Boston Ave. e congregation also acquired a used car lot at 13th Street and Cincinnati Avenue to use as more parking, giving the church nearly 3.5 square blocks of property.
Meanwhile, First United Methodist also accumulated several properties, including the old L&M O ce Furniture store at 11th Street and Boston Avenue along with a nearby apartment building, which it demolished for parking.
Likewise, Holy Family Cathedral and the Catholic Diocese of Tulsa expanded its property across nearly two entire square blocks on both sides of Boulder Avenue between Eighth and Ninth streets, where more than half of the land is used for parking.
First Baptist Church of Tulsa expanded its footprint with the acquisitions of Wells Hotel and the Southwestern Bell Main Dial Building, growing to a six-building complex.
Trinity Episcopal Church purchased the Tulsa Auto Hotel in 2004 and later razed it to expand the facility and increase parking.
Historic churches are, of course, a common sight in downtowns all across the country, but it’s rare for them to own such large amounts of property, Kurtz says. e purchases would have been impossible before the Oil Bust.
“But when you have undervalued property,” he adds “it’s easy to turn it into parking.”
Tulsa Community College opened a downtown campus in the fall of 1970, when retailers were largely eeing to the suburbs.
e school, originally known as Tulsa Junior College, initially rented three oors in the mostly vacant Sinclair Building at 10th Street and Boston Avenue, which was supposed to be a temporary location while local o cials debated where to build a permanent downtown campus.
Ultimately, TCC bought the Sinclair Building itself to use as a permanent campus, partly because it o ered the most economical solution as downtown property values climbed higher and higher in the 1970s. After the Oil Bust, however, the college took advantage of lower property values to dramatically expand its downtown campus, which now covers nearly nine square blocks.
“Even when there wasn’t much happening downtown, TCC was still here,” says
Sean Weins, vice president of administration and chief operating o cer. “We’ve called downtown home for over 50 years. We love our Metro Campus.”
Before COVID-19, TCC was working with private investors to develop o ce space on one of its parking lots, Weins says. e pandemic derailed those plans, but the college is still looking for opportunities.
“We’re not just open to developments, we’re actively talking about what a process might look like,” Weins says. “What is an appropriate development project that bene ts everyone? What bene ts Tulsa? What bene ts our students? What bene ts south downtown?”
e rest of downtown’s ownership seems fairly typical for a city of Tulsa’s size, according to records provided by Downtown Tulsa Partnership. Major corporate property owners include ONEOK Inc., which owns a block at 100 W. Fifth St. A few blocks to the east, Public Service Co. of Oklahoma occupies the old Central High School building at Sixth Street and Detroit Avenue, as well as a full square block of parking southeast of the building. Williams Cos. still own part or all of at least six square blocks around the Bank of Oklahoma Tower.
e City of Tulsa’s footprint, through di erent trusts and authorities, includes the BOK Center and the Convention Center along with the Cox Business Convention Center’s parking garage, while Oklahoma State University has become a major development player in the southwest corner of downtown. Other property owners, however, can be hard to identify in a maze of LLCs and private trusts with generic names. Downtown property values have increased roughly 7% per year since 2008, but prices vary widely depending on the exact location and type of building. Restaurant space in the Deco District, for example, can still fetch more than $200 per square foot while an industrial building in the Tulsa Arts District can go for less than $50 per square foot.
Surface parking on the south side of downtown is worth about $2 million per acre, according to recent real estate listings. At those prices, owners will want to put parking lots to more productive use in the near future, developers say.
“It is my dream that the surface parking lots owned by TCC and the many churches are developed into a soccer stadium, housing, hotels and restaurants while keeping the mission-critical elements of education and worship intact,” Price says. “Downtown Tulsa has so many wonderful people and organizations pulling on the same rope to become an enviable place to live, work and play.” tp
When looking at downtown we often view it by district, but we were interested in how it looks by the type of property. Commercial property still maintains a stronghold on the city center as displayed in red on the map. With more and more o ice space being converted to apartments while new builds pop up in the Arts District and Blue Dome, this map shows that growth in blue. Soon some of the government space in the lower left quadrant will turn orange if a new proposed 650-room hotel is built near the Cox Businesss Convention Center. Save this map and return to it in a decade to see how much more downtown has changed. BY
TIM LANDES AND ASHLEY GUERRERO
New downtown housing developments aim to meet growing demand and foster urban growth.
BY GRACE WOOD
As Tulsa experiences a surge in economic activity and population growth, the demand for housing has reached a critical point. e city’s growth has drawn many new residents and businesses alike, but the pace of housing development has struggled to keep up.
e Tulsa Housing Strategy Report, published in April 2024, revealed a pressing need for nearly 13,000 new housing units, driven by a diverse mix of income categories and lifestyle needs. is gap underscores a complex challenge: meeting the housing needs of a rapidly evolving urban landscape while ensuring that growth remains inclusive and sustainable.
To address the diverse needs of Tulsa residents, several new downtown housing developments, such as ARCO Apartments, Santa Fe Square and Western Supply are in various states of construction. By transforming historic buildings and empty lots into dynamic living spaces, these downtown Tulsa developments aim to meet the demand across income categories by o ering a mix of housing options.
Each development not only provides much-needed residential units but also contributes to the broader goal of creating a vibrant, inclusive downtown community. With these initiatives, Tulsa is taking signi cant steps to ensure its urban growth is sustainable and equitable, laying the foundation for a bright future.
e new ARCO Apartments are a key redevelopment project by Price Family Properties in downtown Tulsa. e building, located in the heart of the Deco District, was constructed in 1949 and served as the headquarters for Service Pipeline Co., a subsidiary of Atlantic Rich eld Co. e six-story property sat unoccupied for 10 years before the Price family purchased it and started the renovation process.
Price Family Properties has played a massive role in creating more housing in downtown Tulsa — ARCO is one of four historic renovation projects the business has taken on downtown within the past few years. Recognizing the increased demand for housing in the city, Price Family Properties President Jackie Price Johannsen says the company’s goal is to meet those needs in a thoughtful, community-minded way.
“We’re here to build neighborhoods, and you need people living downtown to make it a neighborhood,” Johannsen says. “Little by little that’s what we’re doing: working toward building a community down here.”
In renovating ARCO the goal was to blend the building’s historic charm with modern livability, Johannsen says. Each oor showcases stunning marble sourced from quarries in France, Italy and West Virginia. Price Family Properties also made signi cant e orts to restore original
features, such as the bronze accents on the elevators and several of the building’s original windows.
Unique features like this are one of the many things that draw residents to historic properties like ARCO.
“It’s so exciting to see people wanting to live downtown — it’s lling up more quickly than we could’ve ever imagined,” Johannsen says.
Several spaces have been reimagined to meet modern needs. e building’s basement was converted into an underground parking garage for residents, and the former men’s and women’s restrooms on each oor were redesigned into 425- and 480-squarefoot studio apartments. Additionally, in the future the building will feature retail space on the rst oor.
With oor plans ranging from studios up to four-bedroom units, ARCO’s 72 apartments appeal to a wide variety of tenants, from college graduates working downtown to retired couples looking to downsize. Apartments start at $850 a month.
Living at ARCO puts residents close to a variety of local food and drink options, like e Vault, il Seme, Rose Rock Microcreamery, Tuly’s Tacos, Eerie Abbey Ales and Topeca Co ee.
“Seeing people who may have never envisioned living downtown be excited about living here makes me so happy to help build this neighborhood and community,” Johannsen says.
424 N. BOULDER AVE.
Western Supply is a major new housing development in the Tulsa Arts District. It’s a project of George Kaiser Family Foundation, and supported by PartnerTulsa through Tax Increment Financing. e name “Western Supply” comes from the former tenant at 424 N. Boulder Ave., tying the project to the location’s history. e new construction — the largest investment in Arts District housing to date — is set to open in 2026 and will play a signi cant role in addressing the needs of a growing downtown workforce, says Josh Miller, program o cer at GKFF.
“Western Supply is essentially a talent village meant to anchor the northwest corner of the Arts District and provide high-quality, a ordable workforce housing opportunities for both incoming and incumbent Tulsa talent,” Miller says.
Western Supply is designed to accommodate everyone from remote workers, teachers and artists to students and entrepreneurs, as well as those working in the neighborhood. e six-story building will o er 320 apartments with oor plans ranging from studios to three-bedroom units, which Miller notes will particularly appeal to families. Workforce units — for residents with income between 60-120% of the area median income — are projected to have monthly rents anywhere from $840-$1,700 depending on unit size. e average size of an apartment is approximately 915 square feet. Market rent is projected to start at $1,265 a month.
A standout feature of Western Supply is that each unit includes a ex space that can be used as an o ce, bedroom or additional storage depending on the unit size. e building will also boast coworking spaces on the rst- oor amenity level as well as in the lobby and an interior courtyard.
In developing Western Supply, Miller says GKFF aims to spark ongoing growth in the Arts District, ultimately creating a fully realized community for residents.
“Our hope is that a project of this size will draw further investment in the Arts District, adding to the neighborhood’s vibrancy,” Miller says. “( is will) create the demand to bring in those neighborhood -level services that need to come in to make it a full neighborhood experience, like grocery stores, pharmacies, health clinics and dry cleaners.”
Situated near key cultural landmarks like Cain’s Ballroom, Tulsa eater, Bob Dylan Center and Woody Guthrie Center, Western Supply is expected to further bolster Tulsa’s artistic scene, Miller says.
“ e purpose of the Arts District is to help Tulsa become more economically vibrant and inclusive,” Miller says. “Drawing talented people currently in Tulsa, or recruiting them to Tulsa, is an important
part of that mission. We want to continue to add new folks to the Arts District so they can contribute to the vibrancy that’s there.”
415 E. SECOND ST.
Santa Fe Square is a new multi-use development combining residential units, commercial o ce spaces, Hotel Indigo, dining and shopping. Built and developed by Elliot Nelson of McNellie’s Group and Fishless Desert, American Residential Group and Industrial Developers of Oklahoma, Santa Fe Square will serve as a centralized hub for living, working and entertainment in downtown Tulsa.
“ e overarching vision is to try and create a centerpiece for the east side of downtown,” Nelson says. “We’ve done a great job of building lots of bars, restaurants and entertainment in this neighborhood, but it still felt like we needed something bigger that was mixed-use and had a public component to it.”
e property originally served as the Santa Fe Railyard, which was later converted into a parking lot. While Nelson had his eye on the site since 2004, development didn’t begin until 2021.
All 184 apartments in Santa Fe Square are scheduled to open by the end of October. Residents will have the option to choose from one-to-three-bedroom oor plans, spread across two distinct buildings. Monthly rent starts at $1,430 for a 528-square-foot, one-bedroom and one-bathroom apartment. A 1,341-squarefoot, three-bedroom and two-bathroom apartment is $2,829.
Each building o ers a range of amenities, including a pool/courtyard area with an outdoor kitchen and an interior courtyard featuring additional kitchen and conversation areas.
Notably, Santa Fe Square features a 30,000-square-foot public entertainment plaza for special events, as well as multiple restaurants and retailers on the rst oor of the property.
“One thing I’ve noticed over the years is that the east side of downtown misses out on some of the activity that happens in places like the Arts District, so we’re trying to create some of that vibrancy by building a dedicated gathering place at Santa Fe Square,” Nelson says.
Several prominent tenants, including nancial institution JP Morgan and law rm Hall Estill, have established o ces in Santa Fe Square, aligning with the “live, work, play” vision Nelson and his team have for the area.
“I think being a mixed-use space has attracted those employers — being a place where their employees can walk out of their o ce and be in a place where they can have lunch or happy hour and be in the heart of all the activity,” Nelson says. tp
SEPT 27–OCT 6
OCTOBER 20
NOVEMBER 14
DECEMBER 6–22
Patrimony
AMERICAN THEATRE COMPANY
OCTOBER 2
Brown Bag It: Kalyn Fay
TPAC
OCTOBER 10–13
Anne of Green Gables
PEMBROKE PLAYERS
OCTOBER 12
Brahms and Bartók
TULSA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
OCTOBER 15–20
MJ
CELEBRITY ATTRACTIONS
Miró Quartet with David Shifrin
CHAMBER MUSIC TULSA
OCT 31–NOV 3
Dracula
TULSA BALLET
NOVEMBER 8
Father Greg Boyle
TULSA TOWN HALL
NOVEMBER 8–10
Avenue Q: Teen Edition
THEATRE TULSA
NOVEMBER 12
Imagination Series: Charlotte’s Web
TPAC
Jim Brickman: Comfort & Joy
NOVEMBER 17
Trio Bohémo
CHAMBER MUSIC TULSA
NOVEMBER 20–23
Christmas with C.S. Lewis
EMERY ENTERTAINMENT
NOVEMBER 22–24
Cirque du Soleil Songblazers
CELEBRITY ATTRACTIONS
NOVEMBER 23
Trey McLaughlin and The Sounds of Zamar
TPAC
A Christmas Carol AMERICAN THEATRE COMPANY
DECEMBER 8–22
The Nutcracker
TULSA BALLET
DECEMBER 11
Brown Bag It: Tulsa Festival Ringers
TPAC
TulsaPeople is proud to present Faces of Downtown , a special sponsored editorial section telling the stories behind a variety of locally owned businesses who help make downtown Tulsa thrive. We hope you find this presentation informative and useful.
After more than four decades in Tulsa, Vast Bank remains committed to growing the 918 community. The Tulsa-based financial institution provides localized concierge banking with a full array of services including commercial banking, treasury services, retail and private banking. Founded by the Biolchini family, in 2024 entrepreneur Greg Kidd invested $53 million of capital into Vast Bank’s holding company to support the banking organization and make Vast a more accessible financial institution. The dedicated team at Vast takes pride in supporting all things Tulsa and is looking forward to the next 40-plus years of growth in the community.
VAST BANK
110 N. Elgin Ave. | 918-495-1700 | vast.bank
Arvest believes every community deserves a financial partner who cares. Since 1991, the bank has been committed to serving downtown Tulsa, helping individuals, families and businesses make our community a better place to live. This belief system is at the heart of the bank’s mission of “People helping people find financial solutions for life.”
As one of the largest privately-owned banks in the U.S., Arvest provides numerous services across many financial spectrums. From equipment finance solutions to term loans for capital expenditures and investments, Arvest believes in supporting businesses that drive our local economy. That includes small businesses and entrepreneurs that
help shape our downtown’s character and foster a sense of community. As an approved and experienced Small Business Administration lender offering 504 and 7A loans, Arvest is dedicated to working alongside those making a difference.
Arvest believes in the value of community and in the value of downtown Tulsa.
ARVEST
BANK
502 S. Main St. | arvest.com
Multifamily Developer
Since its founding in 1997 by Jay Helm and Steve Ganzkow, American Residential Group has been a part of the continuing redevelopment of downtown Tulsa behind numerous landmark projects in the city center. The projects include: The View, a 202-unit project at 420 E. Archer St.; The Edge with 161 units at 211 S. Greenwood Ave.; The Metro located at 10 E. Archer St. with 75 units; and Tribune Lofts, a 35-unit historic building renovation at 20 E. Archer St. This year Santa Fe Square will open with 184 units at 415 E. Second St. Company President Robert Leikam is proud of how ARG leverages its skills in multifamily residential properties to unite capital, create community among residents and inspire others to grow a stronger city with vibrant economic zones.
“We provide expertise in multifamily residential and commercial investment opportunities while providing solid financial performance for investment partners,” Leikam says. “Our long-term relationships
speak to our market knowledge and result in exemplary solutions for the communities in which we work.” Headquartered in Tulsa, ARG has built apartment communities in Dallas and Austin, Texas; Knoxville and Chattanooga, Tennessee; and Bartlesville.
ARG works with architects and designers to create welcoming, inviting spaces for residents to call home. Luxury and sensibility meet with amenities important to today’s modern living. ARG properties feature state-of-the-art fitness centers, communal workspaces, outdoor entertainment areas, common spaces, dog parks and access-controlled parcel rooms. “We combine eye-catching developments with thoughtful, timeless style where luxury and sensibility meet,” Leikam notes.
AMERICAN RESIDENTIAL GROUP 2624 E. 21st St. | 918-748-8636 | argtulsa.com
Downtown Living
Davenport Lofts, located in the heart of Tulsa’s vibrant Arts District, offers high-end home ownership in downtown Tulsa where luxury and urban living co-exist with numerous amenities including:
o Artfully designed interiors
o Groundbreaking technology
o Unparalleled amenities
o Security and convenience
o Indoor dedicated parking
o Breathtaking panoramic views
o Private Rooftop Club “TEN”
o Ideal downtown location
Available residences range from 1,600-5,000-plus square feet, including two soaring penthouses on the ninth floor, and each condominium is meticulously designed with the ultimate in finishes, appliances and amenities, including two indoor dedicated parking spaces. Model residences, many interior designs, and the owners’ Rooftop Club “TEN” were all designed by leading Tulsa interior designer Chad Renfro of Chad Renfro Design.
In addition to its luxurious residences, Davenport Lofts features a 6,500-square-foot space on the 10th floor which includes private Rooftop Club “TEN” in addition to private event space, outdoor kitchens, landscaped recreation space and amazing views of the Tulsa skyline and beautiful rolling hills!
“Ours are the first luxury condos available for purchase in the Tulsa Arts District,” says Davenport Lofts’ partner Jeff Weaver. “Our unique downtown development has been thoughtfully designed and carefully engineered to elevate every aspect of life — a new standard in urban living.”
Weaver notes Davenport Lofts is appealing to Tulsans who want the investment of home ownership without the hassles of property maintenance. “We offer a place for people who love being downtown, but want their home to be a luxurious, peaceful retreat. One for Tulsans who appreciate thoughtful design, innovative technology and the freedom of a “lock and leave” lifestyle.”
“Our passion for Davenport Lofts is incredibly personal, because we are not only real estate partners but also residents,” say Jeff and Kathy
Weaver along with real estate partners Blue Sky Bank and John and Leigh Reaves. “We are delivering the only high-end urban living product in downtown Tulsa. This is the special place where we ourselves will spend the next — best — years of our lives. From the beginning, we’ve been building the home of our dreams.”
McGraw Realtors Laura Bryant and Mike Key (918-592-6000) can help potential residents navigate the purchase of their new home at Davenport Lofts in Tulsa’s beautiful and vibrant downtown.
Business Technologies
“It’s hard for us to believe that 75 years have passed since Joe Young first opened the doors of JD Young in Tulsa,” says Bob Stuart, CEO, and co-owner Doug Stuart, grandsons of the founder. “Who could have known 75 years later that his vision of serving Oklahoma’s business community would still be alive and thriving as it is today.”
Today, JD Young succeeds by adapting and evolving with the times, and staying on top of the ever-changing document management industry and needs of clients. “Companies all over the state contact us for direction and ideas on how to be more efficient in their workflow practices,” says Stuart. “We are skilled at offering the best products and services to our customers, and backing-up our sales with excellent maintenance by our highly-skilled service teams.”
JD Young’s mission is to help businesses better manage the flow of information and data through a more efficient usage of hardware systems, software solutions and advanced IT technology. “Specifically, we are skilled in providing information-handling processes that increase performance
and reduce the cost of input, output and management,” noted Stuart. “It’s all about creating a document strategy for a business to identify how the company is managing its paper files. The strategy is a needed step toward managing documents more efficiently as a means of increasing profitability.”
The Stuart family realizes establishing and maintaining strong relationships with clients is the key to JD Young’s sustained success over seven decades. “We understand that our success is intertwined with the well-being of our community. Therefore, we are committed to making a positive impact and contributing to the growth and development of the areas we serve.” Stuart notes. “We believe that a thriving community is the foundation of a successful business. We are dedicated to supporting our community through active involvement in local events and initiatives.”
At Jackson Technical, computer consultation services are the core of a business designed with the objective of supporting the success of clients, whatever their industry.
“Our staff has years of experience with up-to-date skills in the latest technologies,” says Tim Jackson, founder and president. “We offer complete computer systems management and maintenance with a proactive approach to prevent problems before they occur.”
Jackson is most proud of the team he’s assembled. “I try to find highly skilled experts who have the technical skills required for the career, but don’t have the arrogance or condescending demeaner that is often associated with I.T. specialists,” he says. “I’m looking for that helper mentality.”
Jackson Technical combines information technology service with strong client relationships to create a sought-after customer experience.
“We listen to needs, then we recommend, plan and implement,” says Jackson. “Our team of experts can provide a company of any size with computer and communications solutions.”
In the 25 years Jackson Technical has been in business their focus has always been on keeping their clients secure. That is especially important today with the increasing cyber security threats we face. The ongoing goal is to protect client’s data and systems with market leading tools and constant vigilance in monitoring and mitigating potential threats.
“We have stressful jobs that often require after-hours work, so we do like to have fun when time permits!” says Jackson.
Blue Sky Bank is excited to join Tulsa’s thriving downtown with its newly renovated branch at 320 S. Boulder Ave. The 115-year-old, 100% Oklahoma-owned bank, with assets exceeding $1 billion, is committed to providing personalized entrepreneurial support that meets the evolving needs of both business owners and individuals.
“Downtown Tulsa is a hub of culture and growth, offering us the opportunity to connect with a diverse range of individuals and businesses in this vibrant city,” says Brian Schneider, president and CEO of Blue Sky Bank. Gentner Drummond, the bank’s principal owner and chairman of its holding company, along with local banking teams, is ready to serve customers throughout its 17-branch network across Oklahoma and Texas.
BLUE SKY BANK
320 S. Boulder Ave. | 833-712-4700 | bluesky.bank
AcrobatAnt, a Tulsa-based marketing agency, has returned to its original location in the Thompson Building after spending more than a decade in other offices around the city. Founded in 2008 and led by managing partners Angela Brock and Chris Schembri, the company offers a range of services including strategic marketing, branding, market and audience research, web design, graphic design, social media management and video production.
In partnership with its sister agency, Dallas-based Aletheia Marketing and Media, AcrobatAnt continues to invest in and adopt the latest technology to optimize performance for its clients, such as the AI-driven tool, Pluralytics, which enhances messaging based on audience profiles.
AcrobatAnt is known for its strong work culture, with many employees having been with the company for nine years or more. “We attribute this to a focus on work-life balance and a supportive environment,” says Brock.
Angela Brock, Managing Partner, and some of the AcrobatAnt team. Inset, Chris Schembri, Managing Partner
“We have talented, authentic people who want to help each other succeed.” AcrobatAnt recently became the agency of record for Osage Nation Gaming Enterprise and continues to partner with local clients such as Mazzio’s and other great brands around the country.
ACROBAT ANT
502 S. Boston Ave. | 918-938-7912 | acrobatant.com
Barons on 1st is an American fine dining experience like few others in Oklahoma. Since opening earlier this year, Managing Partner Nick Ernce, Executive Chef Justin Donaldson and Front of House Manager Alex Calderwood have created a space where diners can experience unforgettable evenings with refined fare and ambiance.
“Apart from two or three ingredients, everything served at Barons on 1st is made by hand in our kitchen,” Donaldson says. “It’s important to us that the food, the drinks and the space all contribute to an experience that is stylish and memorable.” Donaldson and his team change the menu throughout the year as ingredients come in and out season. They are constantly experimenting with new creations. Unique dishes like the duck confit, Dover sole a la meuniere and zucchini pave can be found along with classics like a beef short rib, Cornish game hen and pasta Bolognese.
Ernce is a certified sommelier and has thoughtfully curated an extensive wine list. Calderwood has created elegant, timeless cock-
tails — like the Barons Old Fashioned with smoked ice — that complement the dishes. The bar sits in the heart of the restaurant with a cozy fireplace lounge and a larger cocktail lounge to supplement the dining room experience. “Whether you’re meeting friends for cocktails or celebrating the best moments in life, our goal is to make a lasting, luxurious experience,” Calderwood says.
Operated by Chandler Hospitality Group, Barons on 1st sits in the vibrant Blue Dome District. “The energy downtown is exciting,” Ernce says. “The Performing Arts Center is just around the corner, along with City Hall and all these new developments in the area. It feels good to be so close to the heartbeat of the city in Blue Dome and we hope to make our mark on it.” BARONS ON 1ST
Professionals looking for private office spaces with flexible lease terms can find the perfect match at 624 Collaborative, a new coworking space opened in 2023 by Danny Flannery and Bryan Norris.
“We’ve created a space for your business to thrive,” Flannery says of the site located near the Tulsa County Courthouse.
“It has been designed with the professional in mind — private office space with all the amenities of a large firm,” Norris adds.
Multiple shared conference rooms, a full kitchen, common areas for networking, reception, mail service are just some of the perks.
624 COLLABORATIVE
624 S. Denver Ave., Suite 400 | 918-636-1243 | 624collaborative.com
Since opening Ritual Cannabis in 2024, father and daughter Jim and Amanda Ross with industry veteran Jack Damminga have been committed to guiding customers to the best outcomes in a comfortable, welcoming environment.
“We were tired of intimidating experiences at other dispensaries in town, often inundated with too many choices and not enough guidance,” Amanda says. “We are locally owned and passionate about elevating the medical cannabis experience for those looking for natural therapies.”
From vapes to edibles, Ritual focuses on high-quality medicinal products that incorporate a full spectrum of benefits from the plant. Jim, a professional wrestling announcer, knew first-hand the benefits of medical cannabis after enduring cancer treatments. “I knew there were other people who could benefit the same way if they could just get the right information from a compassionate source,” he says. “Tulsa is home, and we wanted to serve the community that has been so good to us.”
Founded in 1953, CJC Architects, Inc. is celebrating 70 years of continuous operation in downtown Tulsa, providing full architectural services including site analysis, master planning, design development and construction administration.
1401 S. Denver Ave., Suite B | 918-582-7129 | cjcarchitects.com
Since opening in the Tulsa Arts District seven months ago, the Ritual crew has celebrated their creative neighbors with rotating featured artist showcases and ticket giveaways in partnership with Cain’s Ballroom. “The right medical cannabis recommendation fosters creativity, focus and community — and that’s what downtown Tulsa is all about,” Amanda says.
RITUAL CANNABIS 15 W. Reconciliation Way | 918-574-8824 | exploreritual.com
I love a party. Good food, a nice atmosphere, new and longtime friends are just some of my musts. I’ve hosted parties large and small — some for just a few close buddies and others for groups numbering 50. While I’m not the party planner in Tulsa, I’ve hosted enough to know a thing or two. Here are my tips, in no consequential order, for your party this season.
Design the guest list. Knowing the number of people you’re expecting to invite will help make the decisions for many of these to-dos.
Set a budget. Sometimes these get thrown out just like that reused wrapping paper, but without a thoughtful, well-executed budget your party might go from a success to a successful drain of your bank account.
Decide the location. Having a party at home?
Great. There’s nothing more intimate than welcoming your guests into your home. If you’d rather have someone else do the cleaning, head somewhere that can accommodate your guest list. If you
haven’t already booked your spot, do it now. Places small, large and everywhere in between book up this holiday season for parties.
Theme it up. Who doesn’t love a theme? Whether inspiration comes from your favorite holiday movie, your favorite color pairing or recent travels, a theme can set the tone, mood and expectations for your guest. Tie the theme into your paper or e-mailed invitation.
Consider rentals. If you need extra seating or desire different dishes and linens to align with your theme, rentals might be the way to go. It could also be a timesaver with less time spent washing dishes, laundering linens and the like.
Food and fun. If it’s a party at your home you can make the main dish (such as the yummy chicken on the next page) while your friends and family bring the sides.
Opting for a catered meal also makes it easy. Just be sure to book your caterer soon as their calendars fill up this season, too.
If you’re like me, party planning takes it out of me so enlist the help of that funny friend for some fun and games.
Finally, if you’re the guest, do your host a courtesy and RSVP. — ANNE BROCKMAN
Whether it’s a family dinner or work party, the holidays usually bring people of widely differing opinions together under one roof. With it being an election year, things have the potential to get a little ... tense. Here are some tips to help navigate potential conversational landmines. (Note: I am not a professional but my therapist is.)
Don’t be a turkey
Tips to keep conversations in check this holiday season.
• First and foremost, remember people generally speak through an amalgamation of their own experiences — including past pain — and not from an intentionally combative or spiteful place. Focus on this and it becomes easier to contextualize and depersonalize an interaction.
• Take it one step further and see if you can access empathy or understanding for someone rather than annoyance or anger. While this doesn’t excuse certain behaviors it can help to not take a person’s words or actions personally.
• If a topic can easily connect to money, politics, religion or divisive news subjects, just don’t say it. (Remember: no one has ever had a core-value-altering moment in the same vicinity as ham pinwheels.)
• If conversations enter a potentially fraught zone keep responses limited to statements that start with “I” and not “you.” For example: “I would rather not talk about that” instead of “Why would you even bring that up?” The word you can immediately put people on the defensive and escalate tension.
• Redirect conversations by bringing up topics that are generally safe, like the interests of people’s kids or shows on streaming channels. Talking about shows and movies is a good way to find common ground with someone while also avoiding the urge to hurl the turkey across the room. — TIFFANY HOWARD
Ideas for dishes and menus for this autumnal season.
There’s no better season for entertaining than fall. Sitting on a patio, tossing logs onto a fire pit and toasting to good friends and good food is the height of fall coziness. Bonus points if you have a TV playing football in the background and throw blankets to offer guests when it gets a little chilly. Don’t let the intimidation of entertaining stop you from inviting people over. Make something you know will be a hit — your favorite chili recipe, grilled barbecue chicken, Korean rice bowls — and set up a bar of drinks and something sweet (brownies are always a hit) and you’ve got a party!
This fall-inspired dish checks all the boxes: Easy to make. Inexpensive. Can be easily doubled. Delicious!
AUTUMN
Serves 6
4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon each chopped fresh thyme, sage and rosemary
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1 large sweet potato, peeled and chopped into cubes
1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved
2 medium apples, sliced
6 slices bacon, chopped into 1-inch pieces
1/2 cup apple cider
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Into a resealable bag, pour 2 tablespoons olive oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic, herbs, salt and pepper. Add chicken, making sure it’s coated with olive oil mixture. Set aside while chopping veggies.
Place sweet potato, Brussels sprouts and apples in a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Drizzle with remaining olive oil and toss to evenly coat, and season with a little salt and pepper. Spread into an even layer. Set chicken thighs over veggie and apple layer. Place bacon pieces over chicken and veggies. Pour apple cider into dish.
Braise in preheated oven until chicken and veggies are golden brown, about 30-35 minutes (chicken should register 165 degrees in center). Broil during last few minutes for a golden brown crispy skin on chicken. Garnish with parsley.
— NATALIE MIKLES
• Make more food than you need. For instance, if you’re serving eight, make enough to feed 10.
• Have nonalcoholic drinks available for those who want them.
• You can’t go wrong with a charcuterie board. While you’re finishing cooking and guests are arriving, have a board with nuts, crackers, cheese and fruit ready for nibbling.
• Set the table the morning of your party. Whether it’s a seated dinner at your dining room table or a patio party with plates in your guests’ laps, have all your plates, napkins, cutlery and cups ready to go. You won’t want to deal with this at the last minute.
5 FAVORITE FALL DINNER PARTY IDEAS FOR A CROWD: Fajitas
Pulled pork sliders
Red beans and rice
Vegetarian lasagna
Visit TULSAPEOPLE.COM/DIRECTORIES for the updated 2024 Venue Guide, Catering Guide and other informative directories.
AGORA EVENT CENTER
1402 S. Peoria Ave. Ste. 200 918-819-1044
agoraeventcenter.com
Event rental contact: agoraeventcenter@gmail.com
Capacity: 400
8711 S. Lewis Ave. 918-299-9494
bowlandybs.com
Event rental contact: Ryland Bristow
Capacity: 600
THE CHURCH STUDIO
304 S. Trenton Ave. 918-894-2965 thechurchstudio.com
Event rental contact: info@thechurchstudio.com
Capacity: 100
1429 Terrace Dr. 918-744-6997
gasteventcenter.com
Event rental contact: Sara Gonzales
Capacity: up to 200
Modern & luxurious
12361 S. 49th W. Ave., Sapulpa
glasschapelwest.com • 918-346-9094
Event rental contact: glasschapelwest.com
Capacity: 200
LAFORTUNE STUDIO AT THE TULSA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
110 E. 2nd St. 918-596-7111
tulsapac.com/lafortune-studio
Event Rental Contact: tfaith@tulsapac.com
Capacity: 200
AMBASSADOR HOTEL TULSA, AUTOGRAPH COLLECTION
1324 S. Main St. 918-382-6028 • AmbassadorTulsa.com
Event rental contact: tulsasales@ambassadorhc.com
Capacity: 10 to 60
THE CAMPBELL HOTEL & EVENT CENTERS
2636 E. 11th St. 918-744-5500 eventsatcampbell.com
Event rental contact: Diane Morrison Capacity: 225
DOUBLETREE BY HILTON TULSA – WARREN PLACE
6110 S. Yale Ave. 918-497-2185
hilton.com/en/hotels/tulsydt-doubletree-tulsa-warren-place
Event rental contact: tulsy_ds@hilton.com
Capacity: 22,632sq. ft. of total meeting space, and 367 guest rooms
GATHERING PLACE
2950 S. John Williams Way gatheringplace.org
Event rental contact: info@gatheringplace.org or fill out a private event form on the website. Capacity: Varies on location
HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO TULSA
777 W. Cherokee St., Catoosa 918-384-7931
hardrockcasinotulsa.com/amenities/meeting-and-events
Event rental contact: meetingsthatrock@hardrockcasinotulsa.com
Capacity: 900
Available for rehearsal dinners, receptions, and parties.
LOWDOWN
108 N. Detroit Ave., Level B lowdowntulsa.com
Event rental contact: info@LowDownTulsa.com or fill out a private event form on the website. Capacity: 140
LIVING ARTS OF TULSA
307 E. Reconciliation Way 918-585-1234 livingarts.org
Event rental contact: Gallery Manager, info@livingarts.org
Capacity: 260
MARGARITAVILLE TULSA
8330 Riverside Parkway, Suite A 918-995-8080
margaritavilletulsa.com
Event rental contact: Teresa.Street@riverspirittulsa.com Capacity: 30-800
3450 S. 137th W. Ave., Sand Springs 918-494-6000 • meadowlakeranch.com
Event rental contact: Susie Warren, manager@meadowlakeranch.com
Capacity: Up to 200. Indoor & Outdoor Venues.
1124 S. Lewis Ave. motherroadmarket.com
Event rental contact: events@motherroadmarket.com
Capacity: Mother Road Market has dedicated space for intimate small gatherings to large festive parties.
201 N. Elgin Ave.
918-744-5998
tulsadrillers.com
Event rental contact: events@tulsadrillers.com
Capacity: 10 – 8,000+
951 West 36th St. N. osagecasino.com/events/
Event rental contact: 877-246-8777
Capacity: Oak Ballroom – 450, Sunflower Ballroom – 150
Broken Arrow, Cherry Street and Riverwalk locations 918-893-6447 (BA); 918-794-7333 (CS); 918-518-5433 (RW) • pinotspalette.com
Event rental contact: Contact desired location
Capacity: Broken Arrow-56; Cherry Street-48; Riverwalk-60
3924 Charles Page Blvd. 918-810-6765
station13tulsa.com
Event rental contact: Jackie Potter, info@station13tulsa.com
Capacity: 500 Indoor/Outdoor
6421 E. 36th Street North 918-669-6609 • tulsazoo.org
Event rental contact: Wylie Shaw, Amy Watson
Capacity: 160 indoor; 4,000 outdoor
211 E. 2nd St.
Catering Contacts: 918-583-5555
dyana@bourbonstcafe.com
Catering Capacity: Unlimited
Additional Information: Bourbon St Cafe offers full-service catering and drop-off options for any event.
1115 S. Lewis Ave., Suite A 918-779-6333 tulsacatering.com
Catering Capacity: We can cater any sized party!
Additional Information: Featuring elevated cuisine and beverages inspired by concepts within the Justin Thompson Restaurant Group.
3 Tulsa Metro Locations
Catering Contacts: Jennifer Huber, 918-949-7299 Priscilia Wood, 918-549-5339 loscabosok.com
Catering Capacity: Unlimited
Additional Information: Let us cater your next event and bring the party to you with award-winning Mexican food for any occasion.
37 Tulsa Area Locations 1-800-629-9467 mazzios.com
Catering Capacity: 5 to 5,000
Additional information: Catering prices starting at $6.00 per person.
608 E. 3rd St. · 918-442-2993 catering@mcnellies.com
Catering Capacity: Unlimited
Additional information: McNellie’s Group Catering is Tulsa’s go to catering service that offers full-service catering and event planning that specializes in weddings, corporate events, special events, and non-profits.
120 Aquarium Drive, Jenks
Catering Contacts: Jennifer Huber, 918-949-7299 Priscilia Wood, 918-549-5339 waterfrontgrilljenks.com
Catering Capacity: Unlimited
Additional Information: Our delicious menu choices are perfect for any occasion and can be fully catered or dropped off at your event.
OUR FAMILY IS READY TO FEED YOUR FAMILY THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
OUR FAMILY IS READY TO FEED YOUR FAMILY
Since its founding in 1954, Tulsa-based Fabricut has delivered eye-catching products, including a robust range of fabrics like the ones seen here, for the interior design trade. tp
Bixby
Twisted Soul Sisters
13160 S. Memorial Drive
Broken Arrow
1907
115 E. Fort Worth St.
J. Spencer
831 E. Kenosha Ave.
Magnolia Soap*
200 S. Main St., Suite 201
Moody’s Jewelry 2013 W. Kenosha Ave.
Papa John’s Pizza 904 N. Elm Place
Papa John’s Pizza 6323 S. Elm Place
Southern Agriculture 1746 S. Elm Place
Southern Agriculture
1034 E. Lansing St.
Wild Ivy
122 S. Main St.
Wilder Brothers
206 S. Main St.
Brookside/Peoria Avenue
Black Optical
3524 S. Peoria Ave., Suite D
Edible Arrangements 3311 S. Peoria Ave.
Ida Red General Store 3336 S. Peoria Ave.
The ISO Club* 3734 S. Peoria Ave.
Jara Herron Salon and Medical Spa 3410 S. Peoria Ave., Suite 300
Jimmy’s Chophouse* 3348 S. Peoria Ave.
Joie de Vie Interiors 4224 S. Peoria Ave., Suite 2
Lambrusco’z Deli 1344 E. 41st St.
Mecca Coffee Co. 1330 E. 41st St.
Pure Barre Midtown 3807 S. Peoria Ave., Suite M
Ribbons on Peoria 3525 S. Peoria Ave.
Stash Apparel and Gifts 3636 S. Peoria Ave.
STEMcell Science Shop* 3123 Riverside Drive
Total Pilates 3749 S. Peoria Ave.
Utica Square Skin Care 1325 E. 35th St., Suite B
XO EM + CO ^ 3515 S. Peoria Ave.
Cherry Street/ 15th Street Area
Black Sheep Boutique 1345 E. 15th St.
Duvall ATELIER 2204 E. 15th St.
Emerge Medical and Well Spa Midtown 1713-A S. Peoria Ave.
Luminate Clinic 1723 E. 15th St., Suite 100
Luxe Nail Bar 1302 E. 15th St.
MAC Collection Boutique 1325 E. 15th St., Unit 106
Magnolia Soap 1325 E. 15th St., Suite 102
Modern Cottage 1325 E. 15th St., Suite 104
Pinkitzel Cupcakes and Candy 1345 E. 15th St.
Spexton Fine Jewelry 1609 E. 15th St.
Claremore
The Cozy Cottage
416 W. Will Rogers Blvd.
Papa John’s Pizza
502 S. Lynn Riggs Blvd.
Downtown Tulsa
Ida Red General Store
208 N. Main St., Suite 208A
James E. McNellie’s Public House 409 E. First St.
Juniper Restaurant 324 E. Third St.
Made 219 E. Archer St.
Magpie 415 E. 12th St., Suite B
Mr. Kim’s 119 S. Detroit Ave.
Prhyme 111 N. Main St.
East Tulsa
Papa John’s Pizza 10829 E. 31st St.
Visions tile and stone inc. 6801 E. 14th St.
Greenwood Isla’s Kitchen 404 E. Archer St.
Harvard Corridor
Ann Arthur Outerwear 3023 S. Harvard Ave., Suite J
Beshara’s 3539 S. Harvard Ave.
Dog Dish 2803 S. Harvard Ave.
Empire Optical 3220 E. 21st St.
The Inviting Place 3215 E. 21st St.
Kiddlestix Toy Store
3815 S. Harvard Ave.
Longevity Effect * 4415 S. Harvard Ave.
Moody’s Jewelry 1137 S. Harvard Ave.
Papa John’s Pizza 2802 E. 11th St.
Papa John’s Pizza 5111 S. Harvard Ave.
Pierpont’s Bath and Kitchen 1914 S. Harvard Ave.
The Salon on Harvard 3315 S. Harvard Ave.
Signs Now
3229 S. Harvard Ave.
Southern Agriculture 2610 S. Harvard Ave.
The Top Drawer
3303 E. 32nd Place
Tulsa Antiques 4305 E. 31st St.
Jenks
Cedar and Lily Clothier * 121 E. Main St., Suite 105
Lenny Lane*
106 E. Main St.
Motley Market * 114 E. Main St.
Platinum Style Interiors 1124 W. Main St.
Kendall Whittier Clear. 2207 E. Sixth St.
T.A. Lorton 555 S. Zunis Ave.
Ziegler Art and Frame 6 N. Lewis Ave.
Lewis Avenue
Moody’s Jewelry 7015 S. Lewis Ave.
Saint Amon Baking Co. 8156 S. Lewis Ave., Suite E
Meadow Gold District Ella + Orchid 1019 S. Quincy Ave., Suite B
Jenkins and Co.
1335 E. 11th St., Suite E
Red Light Chicken + 1401 E. 11th St., Suite D
Umber 1416 E. 11th St., Suite 2
Mother Road Market Area
The Gadget Co. 1207 S. Lewis Ave.
Mythic City 1102 S. Lewis Ave., Suite E
Willamina 1207 S. Lewis Ave., Suite 100
Online/Phone/Mobile Airco Service aircoservice.com
Ashley Hewitt Photography ashleyhewittphoto.com
Nielsen’s Gifts nielsensgifts.com
Peace, Love and Cookies peaceloveandcookiestulsa.com
Tulsa Animal Rehab and Wellness tulsaanimalrehab.com
Owasso
Papa John’s Pizza 12402 E. 86th St. N.
Southern Agriculture 9255 N. Owasso Expressway
Surceé Gifts and Home 9455 N. Owasso Expressway, Suite CB
Pearl District
Family and Children’s Services Thrift Store 724 S. Utica Ave.
Garden Deva Sculpture Co. 1326 E. Third St.
Renaissance on Memorial
J. Spencer 8303 S. Memorial Drive
Peek a Boo Baby 8283 S. Memorial Drive
Riverside Area/ Kings Landing
Emerge Medical and Well Spa RiverSpirit Casino 8330 Riverside Parkway
J. Cole Shoes 9930 Riverside Parkway
Sapulpa
Big Chief’s Donuts and More 1329 S. Main St., Unit E
Papa John’s Pizza 12174 S. Waco Ave.
Sheridan Corridor/ The Farm
Moody’s Jewelry 5045 S. Sheridan Road
Perini Eyecare 7104 S. Sheridan Road, Suite 4
Pink Creek Boutique 5219 S. Sheridan Road
The Silver Needle 6068 S. Sheridan Road
The Uniform Shoppe Inc. 6044 S. Sheridan Road
Shops at Seville
Canterbury Lane Gifts 10021 S. Yale Ave., Suite 107
Glacier Chocolate 10051 S. Yale Ave., Suite 103
Nelson’s Clothier 10051 S. Yale Ave., Suite 105
SoBo Area
Cohlmia’s 1502 S. Cincinnati Place
The Velvet Willow 1645 S. Cheyenne Ave., Suite B
South Tulsa
Emerge Integrative
Medicine Clinic 9122 S. Sheridan Road
Emerge Medical and Well Spa
South Tulsa 9130 S. Sheridan Road
Ida Red General Store 9146 S. Yale Ave., Suite 215
Learning Express Toys 7891 E. 108th St. S., Suite X-8
Luxe Furniture and Design 10545 S. Memorial Drive, Suite A
Papa John’s Pizza 8010 E. 106th St., Suite 105
Southern Agriculture 6501 E. 71st St.
Twenty Twenty Eyecare 7408 S. Yale Ave.
Vincent Anthony Jewelers 10038 S. Sheridan Road
Tulsa Hills FC Tulsa Shop* 101 E. 81st St., Suite 1
Hand and Stone Massage and Facial Spa
7323 S. Olympia Ave.
Southern Agriculture 7836 S. Olympia Ave.
Utica Square Area
Amber Marie and Co. 1876 Utica Square
Big River Footwear 2030 Utica Square
Cariloha 1760 Utica Square
Coach 1846 Utica Square
The Dolphin Fine Linens 2048 Utica Square
ediblend superfood cafe 2050 Utica Square
Gearhead Outfi tters 1948 Utica Square
Glacier Chocolate 1902 Utica Square
Hicks Brunson Eyewear 2020 Utica Square
Ihloff Salon and Day Spa 1876 Utica Square
J. Spencer 1730 Utica Square
Kendra Scott 1842 Utica Square
L’Occitane En Provence 1844 Utica Square
The Lolly Garden 2046 Utica Square
Margo’s Gift Shop 2058 Utica Square
Midtown Dermatology 2424 E. 21st St., Suite 340
Moody’s Jewelry 1812 Utica Square
Muse Intimates 1876 Utica Square
Pavilion 1826 Utica Square
Q Clothier | Rye 51 1778 Utica Square
Queenies 1834 Utica Square
SALT Yoga at Utica Square 1708 Utica Square
Walnut Creek
Kathleen’s Kids 8212 S. Harvard Ave.
Woodland Hills Mall Area
Coach 7021 S. Memorial Drive, Suite 180
Get Stitchin’ 6022 S. Memorial Drive, Suite A
Luxe Nail Bar+ 10125 E. 81st St.
Magnolia Soap 7021 S. Memorial Drive, Suite 182
MetroShoe Warehouse 8802 E. 71st St.
Moody’s Jewelry 8140 E. 68th St.
Sun and Ski Sports
6808 S. Memorial Drive, Suite 200
Visions Unique Eye and Sun Wear 6837 S. Memorial Drive, Suite F
Yale Avenue
Amber Marie and Co. 4932 E. 91st St., Suite 106
The Chizel 3310 S. Yale Ave.
The Cook’s Nook 9146 S. Yale Ave., Suite 110
Jara Herron Salon and Medical Spa 9168 S. Yale Ave.
Pardon My French 9168 S. Yale Ave., Suite 160
Perini Eyecare
4002 S. Yale Ave., Suite B
Pure Barre South Tulsa 8921 S. Yale Ave., Suite C
Reading Glasses To Go 7123 S. Yale Ave.
Yale Corridor/ KingsPointe Village
Luxe Nail Bar 4820 E. 61st St.
McNellie’s South City 7031 S. Zurich Ave.
Row House South Tulsa 4820 E. 61st St., Suite 120
Travers Mahan Men’s Apparel 6034 S. Yale Ave.
Wild Birds Unlimited
Nature Shop
5960 S. Yale Ave.
Join us at Trinity Episcopal Church for two exciting events you won’t want to miss! Everyone is welcome!
Blessing of the Animals
Bring your pet, any pet, to receive a special blessing: Oct 6th | 5pm 2 locations: -Chapman Green, 600 S Main St. -onsite at the church
Halloween fun for all ages
October 27th | 6pm onsite rain or shine
Wherever you are on your spiritual journey, Trinity welcomes you!
Trinity Episcopal Church
501 S. Cincinnati Ave, Tulsa, 74103 (918)582-4128 | www.trinitytulsa.org
“Move more and sit less.” “Sitting is the new smoking.” “Any physical activity is better than nothing.”
These are adages that continue to be repeated throughout the country, and one of the best ways to get moving is by walking: “The closest thing we have to a wonder drug,” according to Dr. Thomas Frieden, former director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Whether you live or work downtown, getting your steps in can be tedious in the hotter and colder months one encounters here in T-Town. A respite is the ground level of the BOK Tower and Williams Center. “The Loop” as it is called, is approximately a half mile walk all in the comforts of an indoor facility. It’s a place you’ll often find individuals, including BOK employees, getting their steps in during the middle of the workday.
One of those is Jill Dail, BOK’s senior benefi ts consultant. Since 2018, Dail says bank employees have walked more than 600,000 miles through its Walk for Wellness program, part of the company-wide holistic wellness initiative myWellness that touches on financial, mental and physical health.
On average 450 employees — including those at branches and other banking centers — participate in the three four-week programs each spring, summer and fall that asks participants to walk 200,000 steps (or approximately 10 miles total over four weeks) and bears its own theme. The most recent was Museums Across the World; others have been about the Kentucky Derby, baseball stadiums and the upcoming program on theme parks. Each theme serves an educational aspect — as the participant’s virtual map reaches milestones fun facts related to the program’s theme appear — while also engaging team members, sometimes with incentives like winning a Fitbit or money to spend in the company store.
“It just fi ts in real perfectly to offer something that not only promotes camaraderie and enjoying time with your coworkers and building those relationships, but then also physically helps you as well,” Dail says. “That physical aspect can also reach over into a mental health aspect as well.” —
ANNE BROCKMAN
Aesthetics meet functionality in Build in Tulsa’s newly designed headquarters.
BY EMMA SIMON
Walking into the new Build in Tulsa headquarters it’s evident community is at the core of the entrepreneurial hub’s mission. Original and colorful art, coworking desks, plants and even a co ee bar make it a nurturing and energizing environment where innovation, collaboration and impact meet to augment the ideas of Black entrepreneurs and other underrepresented minorities.
“We wanted a welcoming environment that would stimulate community connection and entrepreneurial creativity,” says Ashli Sims, managing director of Build in Tulsa, a nonpro t initiative committed to providing opportunity for entrepreneurs who have historically been denied resources and funding. “ ese are founders that feel like they’re out of place in a lot of situations, and in this space they feel at home.
at was a big goal for us.”
Located in the former Henry Zarrow Center for Arts and Education, 124 Reconciliation Way, the space was already out tted with gentle mood lighting and amazing natural light designed with art shows in mind. But to tailor the space more toward Build in Tulsa’s speci c needs, Sims and her team brought on stylist/decorator Kimberly Grayson in September 2023. She and Sims had previously worked together on designing Sims’ home o ce, which stars a hot pink desk.
Sims says interviews were conducted with several other designers, but they all wanted to go for a more typical corporate look.
“When it came to the aesthetic we wanted, Kim really was the best t because she saw what we saw in the space,” she continues.
Build in Tulsa has over 450 people in its entrepreneurial community, so the design
needed to be both beautiful and functional. Besides 30 coworking desks, other amenities for members include two private phone booths, access to two conference rooms, two classrooms and three huddle rooms available to reserve.
Grayson also designed the building with social media in mind. “We wanted it to be photogenic,” Sims says. “Whether (entrepreneurs) need to host a client meeting, workshop or shoot social media content, there is a place for them to do that right in our o ce.”
With three stories spanning approximately 18,000 square feet, and certain historic brick walls that were o limits, Grayson had her work cut out for her. “I just broke it down and did one room at a time. (Build in Tulsa) de nitely wanted to stay within their brand color scheme, which helped so much in the planning,” she says. tp
Fabricut founders
Joe Finer and Harry Guterman endured unfathomable circumstances to escape Nazi Germany and pursue the American dream.
BY MARNIE FERNANDEZ
Their story unfolds like a movie plot. Under horri c conditions, strangers Joe Finer and Harry Guterman met in the weeks that followed the Allied Invasion during World War II.
Originally from Poland, Guterman spent years as a prisoner in the Auschwitz and Dachau concentration camps. He somehow managed to escape through a small rail car window while being transported. Severely malnourished and beaten, he found refuge in a barn, where benevolent German farmers kept Guterman hidden from the Nazis as they relentlessly searched for the escapee.
Finer had ed Nazi Germany years prior, when the Nazis took over his family’s furniture business. He ended up in New Jersey by way of Belgium, where he then enlisted for the Allied Forces and was part of the D-Day operation that stormed Omaha Beach in 1944. He was a captain in counterintelligence and was considered a master interrogator.
eir paths eventually crossed as Finer helped Guterman once he was rescued, and the two had an immediate connection. After the war Finer returned to America and told Guterman to look him up if he ever came that way.
A few years later Guterman found Finer, who by then had opened a drapery shop on New York’s Long Island. us began a lifelong friendship and partnership built on resilience, hard work and a dream.
From the small drapery store in Long Island, Guterman and Finer’s vision led them to select centrally located Tulsa as the place upon which to expand their fabric business.
In 1954 Guterman moved to Tulsa where he would sell the fabrics that Finer would send him. Guterman’s larger than
life personality and charisma made him a natural salesman and soon sales were increasing at a rapid pace. In 1959 Finer moved to Tulsa (next door to Guterman).
“Our fathers were extraordinary men,” says David Finer, Joe Finer’s son and current CEO of Fabricut. “ ey loved working together and it showed as Fabricut continued to grow and succeed throughout the years. Tulsa has been a great corporate home for us.”
Since its founding in 1954 Fabricut has grown into one of the largest, most progressive distributors of home furnishings in the world. ey service both residential and hospitality segments of the interior design trade.
“We have evolved over the years to include a diverse o ering of products for designers,” Finer says. “In addition to fabrics, we o er wallcoverings, furniture, trimmings, rugs, drapery hardware, window treatments and more.”
Over the years Fabricut has acquired and developed its own family of brands: Trend,
Fabricut, Stroheim, Vervain, S. Harris, Clarence House and Fabricut Contract. It also exclusively distributes Etro, Decortex Firenze, Jean Monro, Liberty of London and e Vale London.
“We o er an extensive variety of product lines, ranging from moderately priced to high end,” Finer says. “Tulsa is our distribution center as well as our headquarters.”
In 1969 Fabricut moved to its current location at 46th Street between Memorial Drive and Mingo Road. What started as a one-room shop is now a 10-building operation that includes the corporate showroom. Fabricut’s headquarters employs 300 people in Tulsa, with another 100 working around the country.
Fabricut has nine additional corporate showrooms throughout the United States, and is represented by 75 multiline showrooms across the country, and has an impressive array of licenses, including designers Diane Keaton, Vern Yip and Jaclyn Smith
“Jaclyn was just here recently,” Finer says. “She is truly a delightful person — we have a wonderful working relationship.”
Finer also attributes strong relationships
and empowering employees to Fabricut’s continued success.
“We feel strongly about fostering a sense of ownership and commitment to the company,” Finer says. “So in 1998 we became an employee-owned company.”
Although both founders have died (Finer in 1983 and Guterman in 2018), the family legacy lives on. David has worked for the company since 1978 and is now CEO, while Guterman’s son Michael serves as COO. Both use the o ces of their fathers, which are across the hallway from each other.
e legacy will continue, as two of Finer’s adult children also work at Fabricut. Jodi Finer Zalk and AJ Finer are poised to eventually take the helm.
“ ey love this company and understand the importance of the legacy we have created,” Finer says. “ ey are in it for the right reasons. Our family history and legacy is quite powerful. at and our commitment to quality and customer service will ensure that Fabricut has continued success and growth for many years to come.” tp
BY RHYS MARTIN
As the weather starts to shift into full autumn mode, it becomes much more palatable to spend time exploring Oklahoma’s wonderful outdoor spaces. e Oklahoma chapter of e Nature Conservancy maintains more than a dozen preserves in the Sooner State, most of which are within an easy day’s drive of Tulsa. Some preserves, like Pontotoc Ridge in southcentral Oklahoma, aren’t open year-round, but here are a few that make for great getaways for naturelovers and state explorers.
e Keystone Ancient Forest in Sand Springs gets its name from the cedar and oak trees here that go back hundreds of years. ey have a visitor’s center where you can learn more about the ecology of the forest before going out to explore it for yourself. As you walk the trails, keep an eye out for bobcats, deer and eagles! ere are many parks and cabins in the surrounding Keystone Lake area which make it easy to forget how close you are to Tulsa’s population center.
e Cookson Hills of Cherokee County is where the J.T. Nickel Family Preserve covers 17,000 acres, containing quite the ecological diversity with various animals
including rarer species like elk and black bears. Although the Bathtub Rocks area is closed to the public, the trails are open during daylight hours every day of the week. If you want to make a weekend out of it, you can pair a visit with a oat trip down the Illinois River or spend the night in nearby Tahlequah.
Pawhuska’s Joseph H. Williams Tallgrass Prairie is perhaps the most
well-known Nature Conservancy site in Oklahoma for good reason. According to the Nature Conservancy it’s the “largest protected piece of tallgrass prairie left on earth” that captures a landscape that once stretched from Minnesota to Texas. More than 2,000 bison roam the range here among hundreds of species of plants and birds. It’s also the site of Osage conservationist John Joseph Mathews’ cabin, which the Conservancy o ers tours of several times a year, including an upcoming one on Oct. 26. Afterwards, there’s plenty of places to eat in Pawhuska. If you like barbecue you must stop in at Trigger’s and give it a whirl.
Black Mesa Preserve is the farthest state Nature Conservancy site from Tulsa, but it’s well worth the drive to the very tip of the Oklahoma panhandle. It contains Oklahoma’s highest point and a unique avian population for birdwatching. At night it’s an ideal place to stargaze and see the Milky Way. Although there have been several bed-and-breakfasts in the Kenton area in the past, the State Park is your best bet for an overnight stay right now with tent and RV campsites. Plan ahead though — the closest town with any amenities is Boise City, which is about 40 minutes away. tp
When politics was on a hard boil and I was growing more depressed and despairing every day, I had an epiphany that relieved my anxiety: I imagined politicians as “Looney Tunes” characters.
Nationally, I see a president/vice president candidate team as Foghorn Leghorn and Henery Hawk. Cartoon Foghorn was a big, loud rooster. Henery was an aggressive little chicken hawk. e elderly president reminds me of Mr. Magoo, kindly but bumbling.
Statewide, I watch a scrawny elected o cial scramble for headlines and think of Woody Woodpecker, noisy and annoying. One state o cial picks ghts and lobs lawsuits like blundering Elmer Fudd and another strikes back with the pugnacity of Yosemite Sam. I began to think of the two main political parties as “Tom and Jerry”
cartoons, wild chases leaving mayhem behind. And thus, I entertained myself until I could think about politics more rationally. Others, I realize, liken these real-life gures to Prince Charming.
(Fun Fact: Not all these characters were “Looney Tunes” gures. Some were “Merrie Melodies,” Universal Animation Studio and Warner Bros. “Tom and Jerry” shorts were created by William Hanna and Joseph Barbera and produced by Metro-GoldwynMayer. Oh, being factual is tedious! I see why people abandon it.)
Comparing politicians to cartoon characters is entertainment only for people of a certain age. Most under the age of 55 won’t understand all the allusions. From the 1930s to the late 1960s, cartoon shorts were popular preludes to main-attraction lms in theaters. e anthropomorphized animals let us laugh at ourselves and at one another.
Back then, we laughed more. Now, everything is so godawfully serious. Some of it is deadly serious; some of it is laughable. Two things can be true at the same time.
I wish I could laugh as I hear alarmists saying democracy is collapsing.
I watch the news from once prosperous Venezuela and think, “Am I looking at the future U.S.A.?” How do great nations come apart? How does a democracy slide into a dictatorship? Plato attributed it to greed and leaders without proper skills or morals. Historians and social scientists cite the big causes (major crisis, economy) and smaller contributing factors (loss of local media, waning civic engagement, poor civic education). I think of the prophetic 2000 book “Bowling Alone: e Collapse and Revival of American Community” by political scientist Robert Putnam. He said America is becoming a nation of loners and the decline in church attendance and organization membership fosters mistrust in one another and in most everything else.
One sunny Saturday afternoon I stopped by the Tulsa Rose Garden at Woodward Park just to soak up color and calm. A young man was sitting alone on a bench. My Mexican shirt caught his eye and we chatted brie y. He’s moving to Mexico City soon and it is a scary move for him.
I’ve thought of him often since then. Why was he alone? Why didn’t I talk with him more? Fear of strangers? Or, an example of growing mistrust on a lonely planet?
Sometimes I’m lonely, too. I don’t want to contribute to polarization. My circles of friends have shrunk over the years. My social life has dwindled. I have active email conversations with friends here and abroad but I am deluding myself to call this a social life.
It’s clear that I need to join some things. Being a member of a social organization encourages us to talk about something besides politics. When we gripe about last summer’s water bills or rejoice that road work has concluded on South Yale, we nd common ground. We build community.
My interests are narrow and my skills are limited. No bowling league for me. I’ll start with organizations in my comfort zone: plants and herbs and history and books. Let’s see how it goes from there. Let’s see what cartoon character I am.
As many cartoons signed o , “ at’s all Folks!” tp
Call any of the Luxury Property Group Realtors about one of these homes, or any property that you have an interest in. We will provide you with superior personal service with the highest integrity.
This newly renovated home sits on an acre (m/l) of land in gated Signal Hill. Beautiful finishes, new flooring, electric, plumbing, all surfaces and fixtures. Chef's kitchen with eating area and large Butler's pantry. Formals. Dog washing station. This home is spectacular with a 20+ car garage! 5011 E 84th Street. $1,850,000
Prime location, street frontage on 51st St and street frontage on 193rd zoned Agricultural in Tulsa County, Broken Arrow Schools, great investment! 10.41 Acres. 0 County Line Rd, Broken Arrow. $975,000
TIM HAYES
918 -231-5637 thayes@mcgrawok.com
GORDON SHELTON 918- 697-2742 gshelton@mcgrawok.com
2 bed, 2 full bath brick house in Midtown. Beautiful hardwood floors, granite kitchen, inside laundry, master bedroom has ensuite bath. Sit outside on your wood deck and enjoy the backyard. Great location with close access to Utica Square, Highways, Grocery Store and Hospital. 2416 E 20th St. $325,000
Have you ever wanted to live in the woods where deer run by daily and it's perfectly quiet, but you are still less than 20 minutes to grocery stores, restaurants, and medical facilities? Very secluded estate lot on a dead-end housing development. 19491 S Par Lane Rd, Claremore. $199,000
SHERRI SANDERS 918- 724-5008
ssanders@mcgrawok.com
DIANA RILEY PATTERSON 918- 629-3717 dpatterson@mcgrawok.com
Buffalo Shores South, well maintained three bedroom, two bath and bonus room upstairs could be a game room or another bedroom, lovely hardwoods throughout, open living space with vaulted and beamed ceiling, gas fireplace, three lots that add up to 1.97 acres, fenced yard, beautifully landscaped with large shade tree and great outdoor living space. The neighborhood offers a community pool and clubhouse for a minimal fee. There is a public ramp nearby. 3439 Scenic Dr, Grove. $550,000
This English styled home was built in 1926 and professionally remodeled to todays standards. Enjoy the close by private schools, Utica Square shopping center and St. John's Hospital! 2120 E 24th Street. $669,000
This 2005 built home is nestled in a private neighborhood east of Elm St and 111th. It is just across the street from the neighborhood pool on a corner lot. Boasting 3 bedrooms and 2 baths with 1,995 square feet of space all on one level. Ideal for anyone! 11115 S 3rd St. Valley View Ridge. $339,000.
Cinnamon rolls, doughnut holes and baguettes are just some of the items made fresh at downtown’s newest bakery, Slate Sourdough. The spot in the Tulsa Arts District is open Fridays and Saturdays from 8 a.m.-2 p.m., or until sold-out, which happens often. tp
BY JUDY ALLEN
I’m not afraid to try a restaurant based solely on the potential of its nachos, which was precisely my mission with the “trash can” nachos at Mis t Kitchen, a new contemporary gastrolounge in the Tulsa Arts District. A friend and I chose the downtown spot for a pre-concert meal before e Pretenders’ July 31 show at Cain’s Ballroom. But whatever the occasion — pre-show, pre-Drillers game, date night, girls night, etc. — Mis t Kitchen should be on your list.
When the Mis t Nachos came to the table they were cloaked in a giant tin can. Much of the allure of this dish is in the unveiling — as the server lifts the can, layers of tortilla chips, shredded rotisserie chicken, queso, tomatoes, shredded iceberg lettuce, pickled jalapenos, avocado lime crema and cubed cheese decadently spill out over the rimmed baking sheet.
Other starters on the menu include steak crostini bites, wings with your choice of sauce and fried shrimp “on the barbie” with spicy honey glaze. From the soup and salad section, we shared the Cali salad, chock full of roasted veggies, cauli ower and beets, heirloom tomatoes, cucumber, avocado and candied pecans. e large salad was hearty on its own, but we chose to add grilled salmon, which made it a meal.
For one of the unique and delicioussounding sandwiches, our server recommended we try e Wifey crisp and spicy honey fried chicken with lettuce, tomatoes and garlic aioli. “It’s the No. 1 selling item on the menu, by far,” says Joe Garrett, co-owner who oversees the restaurant’s day-to-day operations along with Rustic Chophouse in downtown Broken Arrow, which he also co-owns. e Wifey’s soft roll allows bites without squeezing out all the toppings. Other choices include e Nolito (grilled cheese with smoked pork shoulder and garlic aioli), Animal Lover (fried tofu, avocado spread and sweet soy sauce) and e Rob-Father (mortadella, burrata cheese and g spread grilled as a panini).
Entrees are heartier o erings, including braised lamb, guajillo-marinated skirt steak and pan-seared cod with coconut cream rice.
ere’s also Girl Dinner, a trendy socialmedia-worthy meal consisting of Caesar salad, fries and choice of house cocktail.
e menu ends with “Sweets” — chocolate cake and a cheesecake of the week o ering and the “Lil’ Rascals” kid’s menu. Mis t Kitchen is in the corner spot once occupied by La a. Garrett and his partners saw the potential in the space and wanted to do something fun and quirky. “Everyone in the restaurant business is some sort of mis t,” he says. “You have to be a unique individual to want to be in the industry.” Garrett has been working in restaurants since he was 16 years old.
In Garrett’s words, Mis t is “a mesh of a sports bar with a hint of rock star.” He enlisted designer Lindsay Bedell to help transform the space. Her wallpaper choices are legit — the perfect backdrop for a girls’ night bathroom sel e. A private room past the bar is ideal for up to 18 people to celebrate birthdays or other events.
I asked Garrett about the “86” logo throughout the restaurant, assuming it references restaurant lingo. Sure enough, he explains “86” means you are out of something. “My partners and I joked that we must be out of our minds to do this,” Garrett says. “We played on the term and got a good laugh out of it.”
Don’t miss Mis t’s brunch o erings. “Tulsa has a great downtown music scene,” Garrett says. “We want to capture the fun of it.” Brunch includes a DJ every other Sunday, and trivia nights are every other ursday the perfect occasion for more nachos. tp
In Ecuador, Nov. 2 is the “Dia de los Difuntos,” or Day of the Ancestors. Ecuador native and Que Gusto owner Carla Meneses recognizes the day with the traditional Colada Morada — a thick, dark purple beverage served hot or cold and made with blue or black corn flour, Andean blackberries, strawberries, pineapple, other native fruits and a mixture of spices — and Guaguas de Pan — a sweet bread baked in the shape of a doll with colorful icing. Each special menu item is available at the shop, 105 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., during the last week of October until Thanksgiving. Follow Que Gusto on Instagram and Facebook for more. — ANNE BROCKMAN
t’s fall baking season, and we’re here for it. Nothing is cozier than spending a weekend morning in your pajamas, drinking co ee or tea and baking something delicious.
At the rst hint of crisp air we’re ready for pumpkin spice — from lattes to this quick bread. We’ve made ours extra delicious with chopped pecans and chocolate chips. —
PUMPKIN BREAD WITH CHOCOLATE AND PECANS
2 1/2 cups all-purpose our
2 teaspoons baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
2 large eggs
1 1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 stick unsalted butter, melted
1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree
1 cup bittersweet chocolate chips
1 cup chopped, toasted pecans
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Butter and lightly our a 9-by-5-inch loaf pan.
In a medium bowl, whisk together our, baking soda, salt and pumpkin pie spice. In a large bowl, whisk eggs, sugar, melted butter and pumpkin until blended. Fold in dry ingredients just until blended. Fold in chocolate chips and pecans.
Pour batter into loaf pan, smoothing the top. Bake 1 hour or until wooden pick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool 15 minutes on a wire rack, then remove from pan and cool completely.
GO Looking for a great spot to pick up bread for the week? Tulsa has several, including these favorites:
SAINT AMON BAKING CO.
8156 S. Lewis Ave., Suite E
Go for baguettes, sweet rolls, brioche
COUNTRY BIRD BAKERY
1644 E. Third St.
Go for sourdough pizza dough, chocolate croissants
FARRELL BREAD AND BAKERY
8090 S. Yale Ave.
Go for challah, rosemary focaccia, cinnamon raisin
Tulsans have lined up for the world-class food of the Hafli Festival for decades. Held at St. Antony Orthodox Church, 2645 E. Sixth St., the festival is a major fundraiser for the church and something Tulsans look forward to every year.
For the four days it’s open, cooks crank out more food from the small church kitchen than seems possible. People are often lined out the door — some for the church tour or to pick up cabbage rolls or grape leaves — but nearly everyone is there for the Lebanese Plate.
The plate consists of a grilled chicken breast, hashwa (rice seasoned with ground beef and spices), cabbage roll, tabbouleh, hummus, pita, a grebe butter cookie and a drink. This isn’t food you can throw together easily. Each dish is made by dozens of church members who work in stages.
The work begins in August with some preparations done early and stashed in the freezer. The hummus party crew is a sight to behold — a packed kitchen of happy cooks making gallons and gallons of hummus all in one night.
The women who started the festival have grown older with only a few of the originals still holding court and supervising the kitchen activity. The rest are younger church members who have learned from the best.
“We have very big shoes to fill,’” says AB Bayouth, whose mother, Suad Bayouth, is among those original St. Antony cooks.
Lindee Johnson, one of the event organizers, says each dish has to pass the “Suad taste test.”
Johnson says while most people come for the food, others come out of curiosity about the Orthodox faith tradition.
“The Orthodox Church has seen an explosion of new members,” Johnson says.
And that includes locally at St. Antony where a few years ago pews were sparsely filled and today every pew is full. — NATALIE MIKLES
2 cans chickpeas, washed and drained
4 cloves garlic, smashed
3/4 cup tahini (sesame seed paste)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 to 3/4 cup lemon juice
Place all ingredients in the food processor. Add more lemon juice or water if the mixture is too thick. Process about 2 minutes, or until soft and creamy.
11 a.m.-8 p.m., Nov. 7-9; Noon-2 p.m., Nov. 10 • St. Antony Orthodox Church, 2645 E. Sixth St.
Lawrence and Breanna MacAlpine
While the storefront for Slate Sourdough has only been open since July 26 at 11 E. Reconciliation Way, owners Breanna and Lawrence MacAlpine have been dedicated to the art of sourdough for years.
Lawrence, a third-generation sourdough baker who has been baking since he was 9, started making loaves in the couple’s home kitchen when they moved to Tulsa from the East Coast in January 2021. They gave bakes to neighbors and friends as he perfected his traditional, slow-fermented process. Eventually they started a subscription-based model and then joined Downtown Tulsa Partnership’s Pop-Up Downtown winter storefront program last year.
“There’s so much demand in Tulsa,” Breanna says, adding they sold out every day they were open as part of the program.
Breanna, a graphic designer, and Lawrence, a cybersecurity professional, decided to embark on a permanent storefront that not only serves as a bakery, but also as a learning space. This fall, in-person workshops for sourdough boules and cinnamon rolls will begin and the MacAlpines have posted to their website an on-demand mini-course to “demystify sourdough,” Breanna says. “It’s a passion of ours to empower our community.” — ANNE BROCKMAN
The best southern staple can be found at these 3 favorite spots.
BY NATALIE MIKLES
CHERRY STREET KITCHEN’s biscuits are Southern-style with craggy, buttery tops and a flaky, tender middle. Tall and perfectly golden-brown, all you need is a little spread of butter or jam for the ultimate bite. But wait — could they get any better? Only when they’re covered in housemade cream gravy made with local Sausage Brothers sausage. They call it 50 Shades of Gravy, and each bite does feel a bit sinful. 111 W. Fifth St. • cherrystkitchen.com
What’s a classic Oklahoma diner menu without biscuits and gravy? We can’t imagine. We do know where to find some of the best diner-style biscuits and gravy, and that’s at TIM’S MIDTOWN DINER We suggest ordering the eggs Benedict with hashbrowns and a biscuit and gravy on the side. But if you want to go all in, order a plate of two or three biscuits smothered in peppery gravy. 3310 E. 32nd St. • timsmidtowndiner.com
At THE BIG BISCUIT, diners can go big or small on their biscuits and gravy order — from a quarter of a biscuit all the way to two — accompanied with a side of potatoes or country grits. If you order the potatoes get them loaded with bell pepper, onion and cheddar cheese for a tasty morning meal. Try the bonut if you’re craving something sweet. It’s a buttermilk biscuit dipped in French toast batter, fried and tossed in powdered sugar. 5335 E. 41st St., 8920 S. Memorial Drive • bigbiscuit.com tp
In need of a quick bite or somewhere to take colleagues for a break in the day?
These are the best lunch spots according to TulsaPeople’s annual A-LIST Readers’ Choice Awards.
QUEENIES
1816 Utica Square 918-749-3481 queeniesoftulsa.com
DOCTOR KUSTOM
1124 S. Lewis Ave., inside Mother Road Market doctorkustom.com
THE BROS. HOULIGAN
4848 S. Yale Ave. 918-254-1086 broshouligan.com
SOCIETY
1419 E. 15th St., 918-392-7667 9999 S. Mingo Road, Suite A; 918-615-6970
901 E. Kenosha St., Suite 935, Broken Arrow; 918-602-8260 societyburger.com
RED LIGHT CHICKEN
1401 E. 11th St., Suite D 918-986-7733 redlightchicken.com
Doctor Kustom’s pastels
ITALIAN STALLION Housemade meatballs are sliced and generously adorn this woodfired pizza topped with red onion, San Marzano tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, herbed ricotta, basil and parmesan cheese.
GET READY TO FEAST Eighteen signature pizzas make up this menu that also includes five housemade pasta dishes as well as appetizers and desserts. The affogato is especially delicious, with locally made Rose Rock ice cream topped with freshly brewed espresso.
PERFECT PATIO As the days and nights turn cooler, Bohemian Pizza’s patio is known as one of the best in town for its ability to make you feel like you’ve been transported somewhere secret and romantic. It has cozy vibes and is a great spot for a lunch or dinner experience. — ANNE BROCKMAN
Not a beer person? Eerie Abbey Ales at 507 S. Main St. may just change your mind about that.
Specializing in Belgian-style beers, the brewery’s co-founder Joshua Schrock says, “ We think it’s a perfect beer for people who say they don’t like beer because it’s not overly hoppy, it’s not super sweet and it is packed with flavor.”
Schrock, along with Eerie’s two other co-founders James Jankowski and John Godwin, began in 2017 as a homebrew LLC before opening their downtown location in summer 2020.
“Price Family Properties came to us at a beer event and said, ‘Hey, we’ve got a spot for you.’ We didn’t think it would be possible, but we did our due diligence and lo and behold, it worked out perfectly,” Schrock says. “Our vision was to educate people on Belgian-style beers and (their different) characteristics.” He says dark Belgians are thick with flavor notes of plum and raisin but finish dry and toasty, while light Belgians have a lot of clove, pear and spice on the finish.
Their Belgian quad is the No. 1 seller, followed by their Belgian triple and Belgian blonde. But with 20 different beers on tap, visitors will find more than just Belgians.
“Belgian beers are our love but we brew plenty of other styles,” Schrock says, adding they’ve recently added four new German-style beers. With its success downtown, the Eerie Abbey team is looking to expand with a second location in Jenks by the end of the year. — TOM GILBERT
In the early 1900s, much of Tulsa was primarily domestic dwellings outside of the Main Street corridor.
Less than two blocks east of Main Street on ird sat the Cincinnati Hotel (built in 1905), the rst of many hotels and lodging establishments that would make up the area adjacent to the main business district for decades.
An increase in commercial developments soon followed, from small businesses to multi-story o ce properties like the Kennedy-Gallais Building (1918) and large bank buildings like Exchange National Bank (1917), renamed the National Bank of Tulsa in the 1930s.
By the 1950s, NBT had begun drive-in banking to alleviate the volumes of business the bank was receiving. e success
of drive-in “all-weather” banking led to the development of a new and improved drive-in motor bank.
In 1963, NBT acquired the entire block between Boston and Cincinnati avenues along ird Street with its aging structures. e upper oors of the three-story Richards Building had been the o ces for many over the decades but had sat vacant since 1960.
Businesses and eateries like the Mandarin Cafe (one of Tulsa’s rst Chinese restaurants), Craig Music Co. and Tulsa Litho Co. were all forced to either shutter or relocate prior to the demolishment of the 60-yearold buildings.
When the National Bank of Tulsa’s state of the art Motor Bank opened in the latter half of 1964 on the same spot, a Tulsa World article praised its modernity — “From a
saddle and buggy store to a new facility that marks the space age, the site holds many colorful chapters of progress,” the anonymously-authored article stated. e drive-in bank featured six drive-up banking windows, a walk-in lobby and extensive landscaping. However, banking at the location and everyday tra c downtown soon slowed.
e development of the Williams Center Forum and the Tulsa Performing Arts Center across the street brought hope that activity would return.
In the early 1980s Central Parking took over the lot where the drive-in bank once operated. e remaining infrastructure of the motor bank was quietly demolished for more parking space and accessibility. It remains a surface parking lot today. tp
From shaping the next generation of physicians to providing comprehensive care for all, OSU brings a bold vision and depth of medical expertise to Orange Country.
Our rapidly growing network of 27 clinics and ongoing improvements at OSU Medical Center downtown proves we are committed to delivering the highest standard of care to northeastern Oklahoma. In 2026, the OSU Academic Medical District will elevate our impact by expanding services to the new Veterans Hospital and Oklahoma Psychiatric Care Center.
Discover why orange is the answer and learn more about how we are caring for Orange Country at orangecountry.okstate.edu/medicine.
