TulsaPeople November 2024

SUBURBS WELCOME TO THE

EXPLORING

BROKEN

CATOOSA

GLENPOOL

BIXBY

SAPULPA

SAND SPRINGS

YOUR MATTERS AT MABREY

YOU MATTER AT MABREY

Take comfort in knowing your bank has your back. In addition to great products and friendly service, Mabrey o ers our customers financial peace of mind. Because if it matters to you, it matters to us.

WARREN CLINIC URGENT CARE

With multiple locations throughout the metro, Warren Clinic Urgent Care provides convenient care for your whole family. For adults and children with a minor illness or injury, visit saintfrancis.com/urgentcare to find a location near you, or choose a virtual visit.

TULSA

Springer Building

6160 South Yale Avenue

918-495-2600

Open until 11 p.m. weekdays.

South Memorial

10506 South Memorial Drive

918-943-1050

Tulsa Hills 7858 South Olympia Avenue

918-986-9250

BROKEN ARROW

Elm Place

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

Kenosha 1801 East Kenosha Street (71st Street and OK-51) 918-449-4150

SAND SPRINGS

102 South Main Street 918-246-5750

OWASSO

11610 North 137th East Avenue (Hwy 169 and 116th Street North) 918-928-4180

Visit

Thoughts from Local Leaders ON

WHY THEY CHOOSE FIRST OKLAHOMA BANK

“First Oklahoma Bank actually cares about its customers on a personal level. The bank carefully selects staff who take a genuine interest in people. They learn your name and they smile when they see you.”

- Rodger and Judy Randle

“First Oklahoma Bank has had the greatest rate of return on CDs and extremely competitive loan rates. Paramount to these, every staff member we encountered has been highly attentive to our personal needs, no matter the circumstance.”

- Dr. Don and Megan Zetik

“First Oklahoma Bank is very attentive to the needs of their clients. The personal service is much appreciated. The staff at First Oklahoma Bank has been stellar.”

- Dr. James Burleson

“When it comes to making referrals, I rely on the bankers at First Oklahoma for their expertise, whether it’s for lending or deposit needs. They are always there to help!”

- Jon Stolper

“First Oklahoma Bank has really kind and caring people involved with its organization, and one of the things I appreciate is they are very creative and are able to think outside the box to provide solutions.”

- Jordan James

“The folks at First Oklahoma Bank proudly allow their personal beliefs about integrity, love for others, and a higher purpose guide their business decisions and impact the community.”

- Jim Carrington

“The founders of First Oklahoma Bank are experienced in banking principles/ investments, and always have a willing heart to answer questions or assist in any way. They are involved in the Tulsa-area community…responsive and always very helpful, which gives the banking client a confidence in its myriad of services.”

- Sharon King Davis

“What always impresses me about First Oklahoma Bank is how hard they work to serve their stakeholders, which they define broadly to include customers, employees, directors, investors, vendors and service providers. They view these groups as resources and serve them in ways that make them want to help the bank grow. That brings them a lot of business, a lot of loyalty.”

- Morey Villareal

ORANGE COUNTRY’S POLYTECH LEADER

Tulsa’s career-ready workforce is rooted in orange. Through multidisciplinary, advanced technology programs in Tulsa and Okmulgee, OSU is preparing employees for hands-on STEM careers of the future in industries including fiber optics, energy, unmanned aerial vehicles, manufacturing and information technology. We’ve been the state’s undisputed polytech leader for nearly eight decades, working with employers to help today’s future high tech workforce be ready for tomorrow.

Discover why orange is the answer and learn more at orangecountry.okstate.edu/polytech.

PURCHASE MATTERS'

ANNE BROCKMAN

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CITY DESK

Talking public transportation. Remembering Mr. Sand Springs. Historian’s award. Helping neighbors in need.

79

LIFESTYLE

Getting funky in BA. Headaches are a pain. Fall fashion. Party preferences with Connie. 89

TABLE TALK

Hard Rock’s new steakhouse. A pumpkin tart for the holidays. BA’s Nook. Spicy mac attack.

Tulsa Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” is one of several holiday events happening in and around Tulsa in November and December.

EDITOR’S LETTER

The idea for our rst suburbs issue came as many great ideas do — over co ee with a friend.

Earlier this year while sipping our morning pick-me-ups at Foolish ings Co ee, I was chatting with a friend about her life and everything that comes with being a woman in today’s world. e Bixby resident talked about taking her kids to the new golf simulators in the River District and all the exciting things happening in the schools. It got me thinking about everything going on in Tulsa’s suburbs. As a city magazine I think we do a great job covering Tulsa proper, but struggle when all the suburbs are brought into consideration. I pitched the idea to the team … and here we are.

Each of Tulsa’s suburbs covered here — Bixby, Broken Arrow, Catoosa, Glenpool, Jenks, Owasso, Sand Springs and Sapulpa — are vibrant communities in their own rights with countless activities, improvements and goings-on. With our coverage in the feature beginning on p. 37 and in special suburban-themed articles throughout the issue, we wanted to shine a light on everything these ‘burbs have to o er. If you haven’t already, I strongly suggest you spend a day strolling through these communities. ere are new developments throughout, infrastructure improvements

being made, ourishing business districts, nonpro ts helping neighbors and historic charms.

Features Editor Tim Landes and I spent several days this summer transversing towns to see for ourselves what’s shaking in the suburbs. I think Tim was most impressed with my sense of direction. I appreciated his skills in nding every town’s best burger joint.

But that’s not all this month. e annual Holiday Events Calendar (p. 56) was compiled by our dynamic interns Lisette Buckman and Carolina F. Bocock who were able to track down all the fun to be had this holiday season. Again, there’s a lot going on!

Perhaps these two themes will merge and you’ll spend some of the upcoming holiday season wandering beneath Sapulpa’s Route 66 Christmas Chute, shopping for gifts in BA’s Rose District or watching the Sand Springs Parade of Lights dazzle during its nighttime parade.

I hope our TulsaPeople readers learn something new about the greater Tulsa community in this month’s pages. I know I learned a ton.

Happy reading (and exploring). tp

Anne Brockman EDITOR

PUBLISHER

In Owasso with Timmy, one of 42 statues positioned across the community as part of the Timmy and Cindy Project public art initiative.

City Desk

HONOR AND SACRIFICE

Broken Arrow’s Veterans Park, 1111 S. Main St., is a large green space dedicated to those who have fought in wars at home and abroad. A memorial at the base of the permanent flag display depicts the role women have played in these conflicts. Flanking this sits 20 silhouettes that make up the War at Home Memorial, which is dedicated to bringing attention to veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. Statistically, 20 U.S. veterans a day are lost to suicide. The park sits next to the city’s Veterans Center that hosts offices for local chapters of Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion, Vietnam Veterans, the Military Order of the Purple Heart and Blue Star Mothers. — ANNE BROCKMAN

TICKET to RIDE

After 56 years as Tulsa Transit, the public transportation provider changed its name in March to MetroLink — just one of many updates the public service has undergone in recent years.

General Manager/CEO Scott Marr, who has headed up the organization since February 2022, leads MetroLink and its 265 employees serving 250 square miles of Tulsa and the surrounding areas.

“Rebranding is a lot of different things,” Marr says, “but it’s really (about) how we want to look going forward.”

MetroLink recently completed its first year of its Micro Transit, an on-demand service that operates within specific zones with pickups scheduled easily via an app, website or phone. Marr says the program has been extremely successful, citing Micro Transit ridership more than doubling from 3,500 to 8,500 riders.

Marr says it is important for MetroLink to embrace youth riders. “If we don’t teach our youth how to ride the bus, who’s going to ride the bus in the future?” he asks. As of July 1, 2023, those age 18 and younger ride for free.

Also, plans for MetroLink’s second Bus Rapid Transit system are moving forward thanks to a near $13 million grant the organization was awarded earlier this summer from the Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity program. This money will be crucial in the development of the Route 66 BRT stations, which will be designed to provide fast, reliable and efficient public transportation along one of the city’s most historic and traveled corridors, he says. Eventually Marr would like to implement additional BRTs to service customers in other quadrants of the metropolitan area. — ANNE BROCKMAN

Tulsa Regional Chamber President and CEO Mike Neal, Derrick Alexander, Kate Cottrill, Jared Jordan, Lynda Wingo, Shawn Collins, Jerry Holder, Kenny Statton, Todd Wade, Joe Mathis and Small Business Connection Chair Kathleen Pence

9 recognized at Chamber’s Small Business Awards

Shawn Collins , president and CEO of the land surveying company Sisemore and Associates, was named Small Business Person of the Year at Tulsa Regional Chamber’s annual Tulsa Small Business Awards on Sept. 19.

Nominated by their peers and chosen by independent judges from outside the region, honorees included:

ENTREPRENEURIAL SUCCESS: Todd Wade and Joe Mathis of RumbleDrum

DIVERSE BUSINESS CHAMPION: Kate Cottrill of Ihloff Salon and Day Spa

EXCELLENCE IN LEADERSHIP: Jared Jordan of the Summit Club

RISING STAR: Derrick Alexander of Greater Works Wealth

MANUFACTURER OF THE YEAR: Kenny Statton of MST Manufacturing

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT: Lynda Wingo of Miss Helen’s Private School and Jerry Holder of Holder Advertising Specialties.

“Make Peace or Die: Honor the Fallen” will premiere on PBS Nov. 11. The film, directed by Tulsan Manny Marquez, documents his brother and Marine veteran Anthony Marquez creating art to reconnect with the families of the 17 men his unit lost in 2011 during Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan.

MetroLink General Manager/CEO Scott Marr

Safeguard your legacy

The current federal lifetime estate and gift tax exemption amounts, absent further legislative action, are scheduled to expire at the end of 2025. Are you taking full advantage of today’s higher exemption?

Assessing how these changes may impact your plan will involve in-depth conversations with your wealth management team and estate planning attorney. Any adjustments will require meticulous document preparation.

The holistic, team-based approach at Commerce Trust, consisting of financial and tax planning, investment portfolio management, and trust administration, is designed to guide you toward achieving your family’s goals while safeguarding your legacy. Connect with the Commerce Trust team at commercetrustcompany.com/estatetax to safeguard your legacy.

November

1

NOV. 1

DIA DE LOS MUERTOS FESTIVAL

Living Arts, partnered with Casa de la Cultura, is hosting Día de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) at the First Friday Art Crawl. Día de Los Muertos is a celebration of Latinx heritage honoring loved ones who have died.

LIVINGARTS.ORG

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NOV. 8

ACCIDENTALLY WES ANDERSON: THE LIFE AQUATIC AT 20  Philbrook Museum of Art is teaming up with Accidentally Wes Anderson — a creative project that highlights real-life structures that unintentionally mimic the director’s iconic visual style — for a special dual event celebrating the launch of its newest book “Accidentally Wes Anderson: Adventures” and a 20th anniversary screening of “The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou.” PHILBROOK.ORG

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5

NOV. 8-10

REEFER MADNESS

Inspired by the original 1936 film of the same name, Theatre Tulsa will perform this raucous musical comedy (and cult classic) that takes a tonguein-cheek look at the hysteria caused when clean-cut kids fall prey to marijuana. THEATRETULSA.ORG

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NOV. 9

TURKISH FOOD AND ART FESTIVAL

The nonprofit Raindrop Turkish House will host its annual event featuring savory and sweet dishes from Turkey. FACEBOOK.COM/ RAINDROPTURKISHHOUSETULSA

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NOV. 8

ORAL ROBERTS UNIVERSITY VS. OZARK CHRISTIAN COLLEGE

ORU’s men’s basketball’s home opener sees the Eagles taking on Ozark Christian College at the Mabee Center for their third match-up in as many years. ORUATHLETICS.COM

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NOV. 11

TULSA VETERANS DAY PARADE

This century-old tradition honors those who have served our country in both the past and present. The parade kicks off at 11 a.m. at 1109 E. Sixth St. TULSAVETERANSDAYPARADE. COM

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NOV. 8

P!NK

“I wanna start a fight!” The rock-influenced pop artist P!nk brings her Summer Carnival tour to BOK Center. Previously rescheduled from 2023, her show will be one to remember. BOKCENTER.COM

NOV. 16

SUPPORT LOCAL UNSIGNED TALENT (S.L.U.T.) FEST

This one-day music festival will spotlight unsigned bands from all over Oklahoma. The eight-band bill is a perfect introduction to Tulsa’s thriving DIY scene. TINYURL.COM/2K4K2XRA

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NOV. 22-24 AN AFFAIR OF THE HEART

Everyone’s favorite three-day shopping event is back again for its fall iteration! Experience a vast marketplace of independent retailers featuring hundreds of artists, crafters and small businesses. AAOTH.COM

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NOV. 27-DEC. 1

USA BMX GRAND NATIONALS

Looking for a unique way to spend Thanksgiving weekend? Look no further because USA BMX is hosting its Grand Nationals competition at Expo Square. USABMX.COM

Día de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) at the First Friday Art Crawl

New CEO leads TTCU into its 90th year

This year, TTCU Federal Credit Union is celebrating both its rich history and its bright future. Its 90th anniversary comes at the same time as a new president and CEO, Shelby Beil, takes office.

TTCU had humble beginnings. It was founded in 1934, during the depths of the Great Depression, by a group of local teachers who came together to support their peers with much-needed loans. These loans often went toward essentials like professional clothing for new jobs and air conditioners for their homes.

The founder, Linnie B. Wilson, kept the first $1,600 in deposits tucked into a desk drawer in her classroom at Central High School, and deposits and withdrawals could be made during her planning period.

By 1937, however, the credit union had outgrown the desk drawer. It moved into a room in the Masonic Temple Building in Tulsa, until further growth necessitated the purchase of TTCU’s first building at 907 S. Guthrie Ave. After TTCU hit the milestone of 5,000 members in 1960, the space began to feel a bit tight. TTCU purchased a lot in midtown in 1965, which still houses a branch today.

Now, 90 years later, TTCU Federal Credit Union has grown into a $2.6 billion institution with 21 branches serving 153,000 members — a far cry from the simple logs

Wilson kept in her drawer. Yet, the spirit of helping others remains at the core of TTCU’s mission.

“We are very proud of our heritage of serving our local educators,” Beil says.

As TTCU celebrates this anniversary milestone, there’s also a new CEO to celebrate. Former CEO Tim Lyons officially passed the baton to Beil on Oct. 1. As a former Sapulpa High School Chieftain, Beil has strong ties to the Tulsa area. He majored in finance at Oklahoma State University and holds an MBA from the University of Texas at Austin. A strong supporter of the credit union movement, he got his start serving as the controller for Oklahoma Central Credit Union. He has been with TTCU for 18 years, previously serving as chief financial officer.

For Beil, giving back is at the heart of everything he does, especially as he builds on TTCU’s heritage of supporting educators. This mission is exemplified by the TTCU Cares Foundation, which gave out nearly $60,000 in grants to teachers facing financial hardship in 2023. Beil also feels strongly about supporting the arts, serving on the board of Tulsa Community College’s Signature Symphony and the Philbrook Museum of Art.

Beil has some lofty goals for his first year as CEO. One of his top priorities is to bring a digital-first

mindset to TTCU to transform how the credit union approaches problem-solving and appeal to younger members. To prepare TTCU for future growth, Beil is implementing an agile framework across the credit union. At its core, this framework prioritizes putting members first.

“Agile is based on a relentless pursuit of continual improvement,” Beil says. “And the primary driver of that improvement is member feedback.”

He also remains committed to building a diverse workforce at TTCU. TTCUnity launched in 2021 to leverage the benefits of diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging to empower employees to achieve superior results.

“If we all come to the table and think the same way, collaboration is not as effective as when we have meaningful diversity,” Beil says.

Above all else, he wants members to feel like they’re part of the TTCU family.

“At TTCU, you are much more than an account,” Beil says. “We exist to help make our members’ financial lives better. We’re here to do what’s best for you and your family.”

Bryan Wilks

Jenks developer wants to turn downtown into Ten District.

STORY AND PHOTO BY TIM LANDES

Some folks call downtown Jenks the Antiques District because it was once known as the Antique Capital of Oklahoma. Some are really proud of the “Jenks America” sign when you enter town on the east side and want their downtown to be known as such. e Jenks Chamber of Commerce simply calls it “Downtown Jenks” on the website.

Bryan Wilks, along with business partner Shae Roach, have invested in downtown property and taken advantage of long dormant economic development funds to help preserve and revitalize historic buildings. ey want downtown Jenks to be known as the Ten District because there are 10 blocks of retailers, more and more new restaurants popping up and fun to be had between the railroad tracks and the Arkansas River.

It all started a couple years ago when they purchased the 12,700-square-foot property that housed Miss McGillicutty’s antique mall and converted the rst oor into Lenny Lane, a boutique that carries Lululemon and more, plus Freeform on top of it. Now

there’s construction underway for Pure Food and Juice to open a new location on the corner in the coming months.

Wilks discussed his vision over co ee inside Freeform, a second- oor meeting space he co-owns in downtown at 106. E. Main St.

WILKS SAYS “THE GOALS FOR THE TEN DISTRICT ARE SIMPLE” ... Increase sales tax, because we’re a sales tax driven community. All of our infrastructure — re, police, roads — all that’s driven 100% through sales tax. at brings us to our second goal: align with the real consumer. We nd 80%-90% of everyone who lives in Jenks doesn’t shop in Jenks, which is a very bad equation and indicates we’re not meeting consumer demand. at’s our second goal, meet consumer demand. e third goal is to build something we can really be proud of. An Antiques District worked for us for a little while, but we have a whole new generation of young people who love and want to do business downtown so our goal is to also bring them into the fold.

THE ADDITION OF LENNY LANE TO THEIR PROPERTY IS ALREADY SHOWING POSITIVE GAINS ... A quarter of the building that we have operational is making double the sales tax revenue than the entire building was making at Miss McGillicutty’s.

THERE HAS BEEN TREMENDOUS GROWTH IN DOWNTOWN JENKS SINCE THEY STARTED ... I think it happened faster than any of us could imagine. is is really massive change. We have a new McNellie’s Group restaurant. What a big deal! en there’s e Lodge and e Social. In terms of retail, you’ve got Cedar and Lily, you’ve got Motley Market boutique and Lenny Lane. You’ve got the Lululemon. at’s quite aggressive growth. en we’ve got Provision Concepts with Hatch and Sidecar out of Edmond. It’s a really a great mix of local with more regional and well-known brands that are coming in here. It’s got to be the fastest growing 10 blocks in the area.

ALONG THE WAY WILKS LEARNED ABOUT THE UNTAPPED JENKS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FUND, APPLIED AND RECEIVED FUNDING ... It was assigned for incentives like to recruit restaurants that would have otherwise not been able to come here because it was just too much construction costs in an old building, or improvement of the existing old buildings. None of that fund prior to our arrival was tapped into. It was almost 100% untouched for ve to seven years, and now that fund is being depleted, which is a great thing because it’s replacing lost sales tax revenue. It’s a big deal. We continue to recruit new brands that people want and that they’ll no longer have to go across the river to Tulsa to get, and we can keep our citizens here shopping, and they can enjoy a nice experience.

REVITALIZING DOWNTOWN JENKS COMES AT AN EXCITING TIME WHEN THERE’S THOUSANDS OF CARS FLOWING INTO THE COMMUNITY ... We’re surrounded by three anchors. (Tulsa) Premium Outlet Mall is going to get well over half a million people a year, according to Simon Properties. Oklahoma Aquarium says they get over 400,000 people a year. So to the south you have the outlet mall. To the east you have the aquarium. To our north a couple of blocks you have the high school, which is one of the biggest high schools in the state. It’s like a college campus. e Ten is packed right in the middle of it. tp

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Power in the pages

Sapulpa organization empowers its neighbors through reading comprehension.

BY SARA PLUMMER

Debra Chandler remembers going to the Bartlett-Carnegie Sapulpa Public Library as a child and escaping into the stacks of books. But when she grew up and worked in that same library, she was moved to take action when she realized how much illiteracy there was in her own community.

“ ey should have that escape like I did,” she says.

In April, Chandler became the executive director of the 35-year-old Creek County Literacy Program, a nonpro t organization located next door to the Sapulpa Public Library.

About 20% of Creek County residents struggle with reading, she says, which makes it hard to do everyday things like read a menu or recipe, navigate websites and apply for jobs.

“ ere are people who need help that we’re not reaching, people who have fallen through the cracks,” Chandler says. “I want to expand into video and audio media and try to reach people that way. We can print all the yers we want, but if people can’t read, a yer is not going to do them any good.”

CCLP o ers child, youth and adult literacy programs, as well as health literacy programs.

At the 35th anniversary celebration held earlier this year, Chandler remembers hearing from a young man who had struggled to read and enrolled in the program. He has since graduated from Tulsa Community College and started his own business because of the literacy skills he learned.

“ ere’s just this whole spectrum of experience that is missed when someone is unable to read, and I want that for people. e worlds that open when you can read are vast and multifaceted and so varied,” she says. “For me, I imagine it would be like not being able to see or not being able to hear. If you could give someone their sight or hearing, that’s the kind of feeling it gives you, giving someone the ability to read.”

A goal for the coming year is to relaunch and expand into computer and digital literacy programs as well.

For more information about the Creek County Literacy Program call 918-224-9647 or email info@creekliteracy.org. tp

More than books

Puzzles, games, gently used toys, collectible figurines and a floor telescope are not typically items you’d expect to find in a used bookshop, but Nickles Used Books and More — which opens its new, larger location at 816 S. Aspen Ave. in Broken Arrow on Nov. 2 — offers a unique buy/sell/trade model, allowing the community to mold its inventory.

“(We accept) anything educational or pop culture-oriented,” says Robbie Nickles, who owns the store with his wife, Sara, and has a long career history in new and used book sales. Moving from North Carolina in 2020, the pair opened the bookshop in May.

Nickles’ trade credit can be used for anything in the store regardless of the genre/age-group/category of items originally brought in. Sara says some of their customers reported driving to used book shops as far as Kansas City or Dallas to avoid complicated trade restrictions prior to Nickles opening.

Robbie adds Nickles is filling another hole he noticed upon moving to the Tulsa area.

“I’d walk into some used bookstores and know it was being gutted, meaning a lot of books were being used for online sales,” he says. Keeping 100% of the books they receive in-store means customers can find everything from classic favorites to hot titles in both fiction and nonfiction. Books span all ages and genres.

“We have absolutely fallen head over heels for the Broken Arrow community,” Sara says. Judging by the fact that Nickles has already outgrown its first location, the feeling seems mutual. Along with books, shoppers can find board games, cameras, scientific calculators, record and movie players, comic books and many other media types.

— TIFFANY HOWARD

Sara and Robbie Nickles inside their original Broken Arrow location.

Debra Chandler leads the Creek County Literacy Program, a 35-year-old organization that serves all ages.

— Asher Patel ’24

Banding together

BA nonprofit’s focus remains feeding its neighbors.

STORIES BY ANNE BROCKMAN

There’s a lot going on at Broken Arrow Neighbors, a 41-year-old community service that serves the Broken Arrow and Coweta communities. A lot of that has to do with its executive director, Megan Quickle

In March 2020 Quickle came aboard in time for a global pandemic that shifted the nonpro t’s operations. “It was our silver lining,” Quickle says, “and we did really cool things out of it.”

One of those was shifting from a walk-in to an appointment-based Neighbors Choice Curbside Pantry, which allows the team to prioritize and proportion food based on a person or family’s needs. It also meant BAN was able to decrease its daily food waste from 40% down to less than 3%. “I’m so grateful for how we’re able to lessen that food waste because that means more people get more stu ,” she says.

Along with its pantry, BAN provides several services including emergency nancial assistance, senior outreach, a pet food pantry and a community mentorship program called Jump Start. It’s a program that sold Andrea Tucker on BAN when she started on the board. “ at spoke to my heart,” the current board president says. Years ago as a single mom of four young children, Tucker adds, “I used to be someone, that had I

known about Broken Arrow Neighbors, I would have been a client here.” Established in 2021 out of the need to end generational dependence on the organization, Jump Start mentors work with clients to set personal and professional goals, as well as develop nancial literacy tools.

is month BAN is busy preparing for its holiday program, Joy For Your Neighbors. In 2023 it provided 509 children with gifts, served 1,193 individuals with a anksgiving meal and 853 with a Christmas meal, and distributed 17,605 pounds of food during the holiday season.

ough Quickle says BAN’s needs vary from needing volunteers and certain skills to nancial donations and shares on social media, it really all comes back to food. Food drives are critical for the organization, which plans a monthly food-drive calendar with each month focused on a di erent product — from hygiene products and canned goods to school supplies and snacks.

“ I love all of our programs, and they each have a piece of my heart. ... Food is the heart and soul of this organization; what brings neighbors in need to us,” she says. “When we talk about doing a million pounds of food last year — that’s a lot. If you go out to our warehouse the shelves are empty … as fast as it’s coming in, it’s going out.” tp

NEIGHBORLY NEEDS

In the seven years Missy Brumley has served as executive director of Bixby Outreach Center she’s never known life beyond an emergency. First there was the teacher walk out in 2018. A year later it was historic flooding. In 2020 it was COVID, and now it’s a postpandemic world with higher day-to-day costs.

“It’s just people trying to make ends meet,” Brumley says of BOC’s clients who are families living paycheck to paycheck, single parents, seniors on a fixed income or someone with an unexpected expense.

Originally an offshoot of Broken Arrow Neighbors, Bixby Outreach Center became its own nonprofit in 2006, and in 2014 opened its new standalone building at 77 E. Breckenridge Ave. It has a food pantry, offers limited financial assistance and provides holiday food and gifts, as well as school supplies and backpacks. Brumley says each year it serves about 3,600 families in Bixby, Jenks, Glenpool, Liberty Mounds, Haskell and Leonard.

BOC welcomes food and monetary donations, as well as gently used or new items that can be resold in its thrift store, Thrifty Threads. Nothing is priced over $10.

Brumley is the only full-time staff member at BOC and is supported by five part-time employees and numerous volunteers.

“We view everyone as our neighbor,” Brumley says, “and until we come together to take care of our neighbors, we won’t be as successful as we want to be.” tp

Broken Arrow Neighbors Executive Director Megan Quickle and Board President Andrea Tucker

Sarah Munger volunteers in the Bixby Outreach Center pantry.

MUSIC NOTES

Music’s soul

Owasso vinyl shop taps into many genres and formats.

STORIES BY JULIE WENGER WATSON

Vinyl lovers rejoice! Screaming Earth Records has opened in Owasso with 1,500 square feet of new and pre-owned records, cassettes, CDs and even some 8-tracks just waiting for your next treasure hunt. While owners Ben and Rosario Sloma aren’t new to the resale business, the space at 12336 E. 86th St. N. re ects the couple’s decision to focus their e orts on their shared passion.

“We both love music. We both love records, and it just seemed like a good way to get something going,” Ben says.

He says the shop also will carry musicrelated vintage items like record players, old receivers, concert posters and band T-shirts. Not everything is pre-owned, though. Sloma plans to stock music from local artists, as well as o erings from smaller U.S. and European distributors, too.

“We’re trying to keep it broad. We want to service everybody,” he says. “We don’t want anybody to come in and feel like they can’t nd what they’re looking for. We hope to have everybody’s bases covered. If we don’t, just let us know what you’re looking for, and we can nd it.”

Ben, who remembers his own days as a teenage musician, plans to support the local music scene in other ways, too.

“One of our goals is to give local musicians a place to come and play,” he says. “We want to advertise them. We want to get their names out there.”

Although Screaming Earth Records celebrates all kinds of music media, vinyl will always hold a special place in Ben’s heart.

“I think vinyl is really the last medium

KEYED IN

that you can actually feel the music. It’s the vibration coming from the record through the needle and getting ampli ed through the system. You can feel the energy of the musicians, and I think that’s why vinyl is so appealing,” he says. “Vinyl, to me, is the soul of the music.”

Screaming Earth Records is open 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Tuesday- ursday; 11 a.m.-8 p.m., Friday-Saturday. For more information, visit screamingearthrecords.com. tp

“Jenks is booming right now,” says Adam Fitzgerald, owner of Social, a bar and restaurant in downtown Jenks. “I just love the area. I love the town.”

Fitzgerald opened Social in April at 107 E. Main St. Although his background is in the heating and cooling industry, Fitzgerald had toyed with the idea of owning his own pub for years.

“Then this old building came open,” he says. “It’s got the original rafters and original brick walls, and I thought we could really work with all that.”

Social has live music several nights a week and is a popular spot to catch a game on one of multiple televisions or enjoy a relaxed meal. However, it’s the “sing-along” — dueling piano performances from musicians Tom Basler and Rodney Brown that sets the space apart.

“Dueling pianos are something I’ve always loved,” Fitzgerald says. “I love the crowd engagement. They sing to the crowd, and the crowd is always there, singing along with them.”

Although food was not the focus of Fitzgerald’s original plan, he made the decision to add a kitchen during the construction phase, with the goal of serving simple, relatively healthy bar food. Social’s menu features items like sandwiches, flatbreads and salads.

“We just want to let people know we’re here,” Fitzgerald says. “Come in and listen to some

Visit socialjenks.com for more information. tp

music.”

Adam Fitzgerald is the owner of Social in Jenks.

Screaming Earth Records — which gets its name from the Tom Waits song “Earth Died Screaming” — was recently opened by Rosario and Ben Sloma. The shop sells new and pre-owned records, as well as other music-related items like posters, T-shirts and more.

Smooth flows

Cherokee singer-songwriter releases debut album.

STORIES BY JULIE WENGER WATSON

TUNES AND CHILI

album.

Raised in a small Cherokee community in Kenwood in northeast Oklahoma, singer-songwriter Agalisiga “Chuj” Mackey grew up listening to country music right alongside traditional Cherokee songs. Now 21, Mackey is a language instructor teaching his ancestral language and culture to children in the Cherokee Nation capital of Tahlequah.

Mackey released his debut album in October on the nonpro t Horton Records label. “Nasgino Inage Nidayulenvi (It Started in the Woods)” is a collection of nine original country-folk tunes and two covers, all performed entirely in the Cherokee language. Creating music in Cherokee is a natural t for this artist who is also a strong advocate for preserving the language and passing it on to the next generation.

“ e thing that makes songwriting in Cherokee easier is the language works and rhymes a lot easier than if I wrote it in English, and it ows a lot smoother in Cherokee,” Mackey says. “ e thing that makes it harder, at least for me, is that I’m not a uent speaker, and I am still actively learning, so my vocabulary is pretty limited.”

Although the Cherokee lyrics add a beautiful layer to Mackey’s songs, you don’t need to understand the language to appreciate Mackey’s gorgeous baritone and the music itself, which is inspired by classic country/blues artists.

“I believe music is its own language for many reasons,” Mackey says. “I think it’s just a natural part of ourselves.” Visit agalisigamackeymusic.com for more information. tp

On Nov. 9 a group of volunteers, a crew of creative chefs and a community of music lovers will gather at Cain’s Ballroom for the 11th annual Horton Records Rock-NFolk-N-Chili Cook Off. The family friendly evening features live music from Cherokee country artist Agalisiga Mackey, The Dull Drums, Oklahoma City’s Labrys (a musical project from Broncho’s Penny Pitchlynn), one-man-band Hosty, Jesse Aycock and friends, and the Paul Benjaman Band.

And of course, there will be chili. Tickets include all-you-can-sample from Tulsaarea restaurants, food trucks and musicians, beginning at 5:30 p.m. Samplers have the opportunity to vote for their favorite, and the winner receives a championship belt and more.

“Music and the musicians that make that music are some of the greatest natural resources in the city of Tulsa and across the state of Oklahoma, and it should be lifted up and celebrated,” says Brian Horton, president of the nonprofit Horton Records.

Proceeds from the evening, which also includes a silent auction and live art from Chris Mantle, help promote the organization’s mission to provide services that develop and support musicians in the Tulsa area. Over the years, Horton Records label has released more than 120 records featuring Oklahoma artists, in addition to providing booking and management resources and organizing tours and showcases.

Visit cainsballroom.com for tickets, which are $20-$50. tp

Editor’s Note: Julie Watson is a board member of the nonprofit Horton Records.

Agalisiga Mackey will play a Horton Records event on Nov. 9 in support of his debut

Johnny Mullenax performs at the 2023 Horton Records Rock-N-Folk-N-Chili Cook Off.

MACKEY: JEREMY CHARLES; CHILI COOK OFF: TIM LANDES

Bigger and better

Cherokee Film Studios nearly doubles in size and adds amenities for filmmaking in Owasso.

PHOTOS AND STORY BY TIM LANDES

Two years after rst opening, Cherokee Film Studios has nearly doubled the size of its Owasso campus footprint that provides more lmmaking tools for movie and TV productions.

“ e present and future of Cherokee Nation, our neighboring tribes and Oklahoma are intrinsically intertwined, and this newly expanded campus demonstrates yet another example of our commitment to investing in that future,” said Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. at a Sept. 18 ribbon cutting. “As we increase infrastructure, explore incentives, connect resources and remove barriers, we are helping grow and amplify television and lm production in Oklahoma — the home state of 39 tribal nations — while making it possible for our citizens to be a part of it.”

e expansion includes a second soundstage that is 10,000 square feet with a 35-foot ceiling, full soundproo ng to cinema standards, a modular truss system with chain hoists, a hair and makeup room, a multipurpose/ ex space, 14-foot bay doors for load-ins and RV hookups for production trailers.

Cherokee Film Studios opened at 116th Street North near Highway 169 in July 2022 with 14,000 square feet of dedicated virtual production and practical studio space with accompanying edit suites, a control room, a pro-grade audio booth, crew and client lounges, as well as hair and makeup facilities to meet the growing needs of production in Oklahoma.

Located in the Cherokee Nation Reservation, the studio is the rst of its kind in Oklahoma and Indian Country, including an xR (“extended reality”) virtual production LED volume studio, crafted with industry-leading software and hardware technologies.

Sixteen full-time sta members work at the campus that supports Cherokee Film Studios, Cherokee Film Productions and Cherokee Film Institute. Each external production brings its own crew and there are many freelancers and contractors hired by Cherokee Film for projects in the studio.

Cherokee Film Studios creates content speci cally geared toward its citizens and is heavily utilized in support of Cherokee Nation’s language revitalization projects. e studio also has hosted many external productions, including ve motion pictures and four commercials including a new vehicle release from international auto manufacturer Volvo. Actress Melissa Leo became the rst Academy Award winner to lm at Cherokee Film Studios during the production of Tulsa lmmaker John Swab’s “King Ivory,” which premiered in September at the Venice Film Festival.

Cherokee Film Studios is part of the Cherokee Film ecosystem, which includes four distinct branches: Cherokee Film Productions, Cherokee Film Studios, Cherokee Film Commission and Cherokee Film Institute. Each division is working toward a shared goal of innovating narrative sovereignty while creating economic development within the tribe’s reservation. tp

The studio has room for practical sets.

Cherokee Film Productions’ Kim Chapman films a test scene at the recent celebration for Cherokee Film Studios’ expansion.

Cherokee Film Studios has a sound stage that offers virtual production capabilities.

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Founder fanfare

December event to honor historian and author H.W. Brands.

BY CONNIE CRONLEY

Historian H. W. Brands, recipient of the 2024 Peggy V. Helmerich Distinguished Author Award presented by the Tulsa City-County Library and the Tulsa Library Trust, will be in town to talk about American history at a Dec. 5 free public presentation and a Dec. 6 black-tie gala. Brands has written more than 30 books, including two biographies that were Pulitzer Prize nalists. His newest book is “Founding Partisans: Hamilton, Madison, Je erson, Adams and the Brawling Birth of American Politics.” He spoke to us from his faculty o ce at the University of Texas at Austin.

THE NEWS IS FULL OF CONTEMPORARY POLITICS AND GOVERNMENT. WHY SHOULD WE READ ABOUT IT IN HISTORY? If you’re an optimist, you can read it to see that we have been through this kind of thing before and we survived. It’s one of the striking things about American history.

WHAT WOULD THE FOUNDING FATHERS THINK ABOUT HOW WE VIEW THE CONSTITUTION? ey would be surprised, perhaps even shocked, that we are still operating under the Constitution they wrote in 1787 and that it hasn’t

been more amended. ey were rm believers in self-government, which meant govern yourselves. Don’t be governed by your great, great, great-grandparents. ey also knew that there’s nothing inevitable in history. It’s very easy to take the success of American self-government for granted, but if you want things to last, you have to take care to make sure they do last.

YOU WRITE HISTORIC FIGURES THAT SEEM SO REAL. WHICH OF THEM WOULD YOU WANT TO DRIVE ACROSS THE COUNTRY WITH? Not Alexander Hamilton. He was brilliant but I’d be tired of him by Kansas. omas Je erson would be endlessly interesting but want to stop every 50 miles to look at something. e person I wish I could know better is James Madison because he is something I rarely observe either in history or in life; as an adult he fundamentally changed his mind on big issues. An open mind is a good thing. tp

Leftover Last Waltz RETURNS

A host of Tulsa and regional talent will take the Cain’s Ballroom stage again this year in support of Foundation for Tulsa Schools’ music educator grants at the Nov. 24 Leftover Last Waltz.

The event gets its name from the 1978 documentary “The Last Waltz,” which chronicles the last concert of the CanadianAmerican rock group The Band on Thanksgiving Day 1976. Concert-goers can expect to hear Americana classics like “The Weight,” “Ophelia,” “Up on Cripple Creek” and so many others.

“We are really looking forward to this year’s event,” says organizer Greg Bollinger, TulsaPeople’s staff videographer. “Our All-Star Band is returning better than ever, and we have some wonderful special guests to be announced.”

The all-ages, family friendly fundraiser includes a Thanksgiving dinner catered by Mac’s Barbecue included with each ticket. Silent auctions, raffles and a special memory-making photo booth experience await attendees, too. — ANNE BROCKMAN

Editor’s Note: Langdon Publishing is the presenting sponsor of The Leftover Last Waltz.

Nov. 24

The Leftover Last Waltz Benefits the Foundation for Tulsa Schools.

5 p.m., doors; 7 p.m., show. | $35. Cain’s Ballroom, 423 N. Main St. cainsballroom.com

H.W. Brands is a professor and author who has made many appearances on various History Channel documentary programs for his expertise in American history.

Jared Tyler and Sarah Frick at the 2023 event

A man of unquestionable integrity

Mr. Sand Springs led a life of leadership in his community.

BY MICHAEL OVERALL

Montie R. Box’s dad would grab him by one leg and drag him out of bed onto the oor every morning in the mid-1940s.

“Son, it’s time to deliver the milk. Let’s get with it,” he would say to Montie.

His father, James Box, was the manager of Sand Springs Home Farm, which provided dairy and produce for the widows and orphans who lived at Sand Springs Home. Montie had to nish a 5-mile delivery route before hitchhiking to Sand Springs High School in time for 8 o’clock band practice.

He wanted to play sports too, but some of the older guys who had dropped out to ght in World War II were coming back to high school to work toward receiving their diplomas. Some were even married and had children. e younger, smaller students like Montie could hardly compete on the football eld or basketball court.

Years later he would remember what it felt like to be “the little guy” when he created a wrestling program for Sand Springs youth,

including his own son, Jimmy, who was about 6 years old at the time. Wrestlers compete in weight classes, giving smaller kids a fair chance.

“I changed a lot of young men’s lives through our wrestling program,” Montie would say.

Born July 31, 1930, in the south-central Oklahoma town of Comanche, Montie came to the Sand Springs area with his family when he was 2. He went to a tworoom school called Tanglewood until ninth grade, and after nishing high school in 1947, he joined the Navy Reserve and began attending Oklahoma A&M College, now Oklahoma State University.

In September 1953, Montie went to work for his father-in-law, Ray Brown, selling insurance and real estate in Sand Springs, and he could not have picked a more fortuitous moment to go into the business.

Investment in home construction skyrocketed more than 40% nationwide between late 1953 and the end of 1954,

launching a postwar housing boom that would last more than 20 years.

Suburban Tulsa, however, had larger, better- nanced developers than Sand Springs, and Montie once again had to nd a way for underdogs to compete. He took guidance from Brown, who always told him, “Son, it’s either black or white. ere’s no in between.”

Impeccable honesty and unquestionable integrity earned Montie trust from homebuilders and homebuyers. He took over his father-in-law’s business in 1957 and shifted from selling real estate to developing it.

Montie built at least six subdivisions along with numerous warehouses, o ce buildings and shopping centers over the span of more than 60 years, becoming known across metropolitan Tulsa as “Mr. Sand Springs.”

He died Jan. 2 at age 93, less than a month after the Sand Springs City Council approved a resolution to name a swath of downtown as the Box District. tp

Montie R. Box was a longtime Sand Springs resident and developer. Inset, Box with Tulsa County Commissioner Karen Keith at the opening of the Gilcrease Expressway extension.

NOVEMBER CHARITABLE EVENTS

COMPILED BY MADISON WALTERS

THROUGH NOV. 3

Care Card

Benefits Family and Children’s Services. carecardok.com

1

Art Party

Benefits Tulsa Girls Art School. tulsagirlsartschool.org

Movers and Shakers

Benefits Food on the Move. fotmgala.com

1-DEC. 8

Toys for Tots

Benefits Marine Corps Reserve’s Toys for Tots. toysfortots.org

2

Boomtown Awards

Benefits TYPROS Foundation. typros.org

Farm to Fire

Benefits RG Foods. rgfoods.net

FurBall Gala

Benefits Oklahoma Alliance for Animals. animalallianceok.org

3

Fun-Run and 5K

Benefits Mita’s Foundation. mitasfoundation.org

7

Gold Medal Night

Benefits Aim High Academy. aimhighgym.org

Night of Honor

Benefits Soldier’s Wish. soldierswish.org

8

Giving Spirits

Benefits Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma. okfoodbank.org

Stetsons and Stilettos

Benefits Route 66 Main Street. rt66tulsa.org

Zzz’s in the Seas

Benefits Oklahoma Aquarium. okaquarium.org

9

Dream Gala

Benefits Tulsa Girls’ Home. tulsagirlshome.org/gala

Rock-N-Folk-N-Chili Cook-o

Benefits Horton Records. cainsballroom.com

Scholarship Auction and Dinner

Benefits Rogers State University Foundation. rsu.edu

TECH TALK With three Tulsa locations and three locations in the suburbs — Broken Arrow, Owasso and Sand Springs — Tulsa Tech serves eight counties with a wide range of different academic programs. Each campus has a specific interest or emphasis, though other career paths also are offered. Here’s a closer look at Tulsa Tech’s suburban higher education opportunities.

Established in 1983 and spanning 53-acres, the Broken Arrow Campus, 4000 W. Florence St., is home to the majority of Tulsa Tech’s automotive and manufacturing programs, which includes auto maintenance, drafting and even big rig driver training. Other career options offered range from foundational health sciences programs to cosmetology programs.

Opened in 1999, the Owasso Campus’ main focus lies in culinary arts and hospitality and tourism programs. Other offerings at this 256,000-square-foot facility at 10800 N. 137th E. Ave. include health sciences, arts and communications, information technology, manufacturing technology and marketing.

The Sand Springs Campus, 924 E. Charles Page Blvd., opened in 2013 and is one of Tulsa Tech’s newest additions. This facility is home to an array of construction-related careers such as carpentry, electrical trades, electric utility

10-12, 17-18

Bloomingdeals

Benefits Junior League of Tulsa. jltulsa.org

12

Tulsa AWARE Luncheon

Benefits Alzheimer’s Association Oklahoma Chapter. awareok.org

13

That’s the Spirit

Broken Arrow Public Schools Foundation. bapsfoundation.org

14

Bunker Bites

Benefits Coffee Bunker. coffeebunker.org

19

Bunco for a Cause

Benefits Rotary Club of Owasso. baileyeducationfoundation.com

19-21

Stories of Light

Benefits Make-A-Wish Foundation. wish.org/oklahoma

21

Barbecue, Beer and Cigars

Benefits Tulsa Boys’ Home. tulsaboyshome.org

Books, Brews and BBQ

Benefits Reading Partners. readingpartners.org

Dinner of Reconciliation

Benefits John Hope Franklin Center for Reconciliation. jhfcenter.org

24

Leftover Last Waltz

Benefits Foundation for Tulsa Schools. cainsballroom.com

28-DEC. 28

Philbrook Festival

Benefits Philbrook Museum of Art. philbrook.org

29-DEC. 30

Botanic Garden of Lights

Benefits Tulsa Botanic Garden. tulsabotanic.org

30

Cancer Sucks Bene t Concert Benefits multiple cancer research organizations. cancersucks.com

30 AND DEC.1, 7-8

Tree Lot Benefits Cascia Hall. casciahall.com

30-DEC. 16

Gifts of Hope

Benefits Youth Services of Tulsa. yst.org

EDITOR’S NOTE: HIGHLIGHTED EVENTS SPONSORED BY TULSAPEOPLE

Tulsa Tech’s Owasso campus

linework and electric control systems. Other majors encompass the fields of arts and communications, health sciences, human services and manufacturing. Learn more about all of Tulsa Tech’s six campuses at tulsatech.edu.

— MADISON WALTERS

BENEFITS

DIVAS 4 HOPE: DIVAS GOT SOUL On Sept. 27, 350 guests gathered at Cox Business Convention Center for DIVAS 4 HOPE: DIVAS Got Soul, a celebration benefiting HOPE (Health Outreach Prevention Education), where attendees immersed themselves in the rhythms and harmonies of music. The event was coordinated by Jeff Burdge, HOPE development and communication director. Proceeds from the event benefit efforts to nurture and sustain the health of our community by providing free or low-cost health services for indi-

viduals with hepatitis C, HIV and other STIs. 1: Chris McAbery, Lexy Powers, Joe Franco and Jennifer Porter dance the night away on the dance floor. 2: Attendees embraced the event’s groovy theme. 3: Matt and Jennifer Porter 4: Sponsors and chairs Kody Rosene, Drew Rosene, Donna Rosene, Bob Rosene, Maggie Rosene Robinson and Casey Robinson 5: Executive Director Taryn Norman, Board President Tami Benson and Board Member Katie Knoll

LINKS FOR LITTLE ONES Little Light House’s annual golf tournament returned Sept. 23 at Cedar Ridge Country Club for a day of friendly competition between 154 golfers. With catering from McNellie’s Group and Chick-Fil-a Southroads, the event helped raise necessary funds for life-changing education, therapy services and specialized equipment Little Light House provides for children with special needs. Links for Little Ones raised around $115,000.

1: LLH student Chance Kinney welcomes attendees to the event. 2: Shelby Cinanant, LLH grant writer, passes out welcome bags to competitors. 3: LLH student Leo Fontaine waves at golfers. 4: LLH alumna Sophia Hildebrandt and golfer Max Mantooth 5: Golfers Mike

Tim

and Paul Johnson pause their game for a photo. 6: It was a beautiful day out on the course for this annual event.

Snowdon,

Neece, Matt Rusk

SUBURBIA

By Anne Brockman and Tim Landes

Many people who work in Tulsa make daily commutes to and from the suburbs. We ventured out to learn more about our municipal neighbors. There are similarities between each community: all are growing and there are major pushes for revitalization in each of them with much of it occurring in the respective downtowns. In nearly every community the schools are expanding to meet needs. More and more community members are starting new small businesses to help drive economic growth. That said, each community has its own unique charms — from the Blue Whale of Catoosa to the Route 66 Christmas Chute in Sapulpa.

There is so much happening we couldn’t possibly fit it all into this feature, but it’s a good start. Enjoy spending time in the suburbs.

BIXBY

LOCATION: south of Tulsa

FOUNDED: 1902

POPULATION: 28,609*

AVERAGE ANNUAL GROWTH RATE FROM 2000-2023: 124.61%*

MEDIAN HOME SALE PRICE: $395,000**

WHAT’S IN A NAME:

Bixby gets its name from Tams Bixby, who was chair of the Dawes Commission.

Less than a decade ago, Bixby voters approved a Bixby Vision sales extension that led to the major revitalization of the Downtown River District, which includes commercial areas, retail shopping, multifamily housing, hotels, restaurants and business development. There’s also Charley Young Park, which includes green space, a jungle gym, event space and interactive fountains.

Bixby’s downtown is known as the River District

Farm

Bixby is nicknamed “The Garden Spot of Oklahoma” for a reason. It’s a true Oklahoma summer experience to spend time picking a bouquet of fresh flowers at JOE’S FARM, 12811 S. Sheridan Road. Shoppers can also pick blackberries, strawberries and cherry tomatoes.

TULSA GRASS AND SOD FARMS, 13801 S. Memorial Drive, grows more than 1,000 acres of sod with much of it near the banks of the Arkansas River.

CARMICHAEL’S PUMPKIN PATCH, 17137 S. Mingo Road, has been a popular fall attraction for families for more than four decades. In the fall there’s a wide variety of pumpkins and gourds to choose from, plus a corn maze, pony rides and more.

160 ACRES

OF EUCHEE BUTTERFLY FARM, LOCATED JUST OUTSIDE OF TOWN IN LEONARD.

Local architecture firm Cyntergy designed the street crossing structure to mimic the agricultural field sprinklers as a nod to Bixby’s roots.

Miles between Highway 75 in Glenpool and Memorial Drive in Bixby along 151st Street/Highway 67. The four -lane highway is currently being studied for future traffic projects to address the residential and commercial growth in the area.

It’s a good time to be a BIXBY SPARTAN. The school district is among the fastest growing in the state and with construction underway to accomodate more than 7,000 students. There’s a $70 million construction expansion that will add 200,000 square feet across three floors that will become 55 classrooms, a college and career center, a coffee shop and more. It is slated for completion in early 2025. Since 2014, the Bixby football team has won nine state championships, making the Spartans the most dominant team in the state.

Joe’s

BROKEN ARROW

LOCATION: east of Tulsa

FOUNDED: 1902

POPULATION: 113,540*

AVERAGE ANNUAL GROWTH RATE FROM 2000-2023: 46.75%*

MEDIAN HOME SALE PRICE: $294,000**

WHAT’S IN A NAME:

The Muscogee people who settled along the Arkansas River in the area were the Thlikachka or Broken Arrow tribal town, according to City of Broken Arrow.

Decades ago Broken Arrow residents lined the streets with bushes, trees and owers. Rose bushes were a popular choice and soon the community was known as “The City of Roses.”

In recent years, BA voters approved more than $4 million in funds for revitalizing downtown and making the Rose District bloom. The area is booming with restaurants and stores, plus several museums and art galleries, a 1,500-seat modern performing arts center, a pavilion that hosts a seasonal farmers’ market, workout classes, movie nights and more.

The Rose District Farmers’ Market operates April-October.

More than 4,000 flags are on display at Floral Haven Cemetery, 6500 S. 129th E. Ave., each Memorial Day weekend as it hosts one of the largest private tributes in mid-America. The 2024 showcase was the 52nd anniversary of Avenue of Flags.

The City of Broken Arrow purchased the GRAIN ELEVATOR at 507 S. Main St. earlier this year for $250,000 in an e ort to preserve the iconic structure that has been a part of the BA skyline for 62 years. No formal plans for it have been finalized.

BROKEN ARROW IS HOME TO ONE OF THREE BLUE BELL CREAMERIES PRODUCTION FACILITIES.

20,115

STUDENTS IN BROKEN ARROW PUBLIC SCHOOLS IN THE 2022-2023 SCHOOL YEAR

Construction is underway on THE SUNSET AT BROKEN ARROW AMPHITHEATER . Once completed in 2025, the 12,500-seat capacity outdoor venue will host major musical acts on 13 acres near Events Park at 101st Street and the Creek Turnpike. Sunset at Broken Arrow LLC, a subsidiary of Notes Live, has committed a $70 million capital investment on the entertainment complex and a minimum of 45 scheduled events projected to generate nearly $4 million in city sales tax and $934,000 in ad valorem tax revenues annually. The estimated annual economic impact is $211 million.

FLIGHTSAFETY — a New Yorkbased company that designs and manufactures flight simulators for commercial, government and military sectors — employs more than 600 people at its Broken Arrow campus. It is one of several aerospace firms, including L3Harris, CymSTAR and Element, that call Broken Arrow home, according to BA’s Economic Development Corp.

Shaky Jakes

burgers & Franks

Since opening in 2021, Shaky Jakes Burgers and Franks has been drawing folks to the Rose District for its loaded burgers, creative hot dogs, smoked wings and wild milkshakes. The family friendly dining destination — the afternoon and evening counterpart to Bramble Breakfast and Bar — has people flocking to its happy hour and live weekend music acts. Plus, it’s a great place to catch a game as 11 TVs dot the space.

Stephanie Bradley leads the Broken Arrow team for 3 Sirens Restaurant Group, which includes Bramble, Holé Molé, Bird and Bottle, and Market 31. “The Broken Arrow community has really supported us over the years and I look forward to celebrating the holidays at Shaky Jakes with our new, over-the-top Christmas decorations that will soon be on display,” Bradley says.

She started at Bramble in 2020 as a bartender whose leadership skills caught the eye of the restaurant’s owners. “When

we decided to multi-concept the location and add Shaky Jakes, Stephanie wasn’t just on board — she was determined to make this idea work in BA,” says Johnna Hayes, co-owner of 3 Sirens Restaurant Group. “With her hard work and leadership skills she has been able to take our crazy idea and make it flourish.”

Shaky Jakes — which is named after Hayes’ grandfather — is known for its friendly atmosphere and inclusive philosophy that makes everyone feel at home.

VISIT ALL 3 SIRENS RESTAURANT GROUP CONCEPTS: BRAMBLE BREAKFAST AND BAR: 1302 E. SIXTH ST. | BIRD AND BOTTLE: 3324-A E. 31ST ST. | HOLÉ MOLÉ: 1529 E. 15TH ST. | MARKET 31: 3324 E. 31ST ST. ON INSTAGRAM: @BIRDANDBOTTLETULSA, @BRAMBLEBREAKFASTANDBAR, @SHAKYJAKESOK, @HOLÉMOLÉTULSA, @MARKET31TULSA

Now Open Hours

Sunday - Thursday 4 P.M. - 10 P.M.

Friday - Saturday 4 P.M. - 11 P.M.

CATOOSA

LOCATION: northeast of Tulsa

FOUNDED: 1883

POPULATION: 7,440*

AVERAGE ANNUAL GROWTH RATE FROM 2000-2023: 22.67%*

MEDIAN HOME SALE

PRICE: $337,500**

WHAT’S IN A NAME: Catoosa resides within the Cherokee Nation Reservation. The town’s name is inspired by the phrase “between two hills” in the Cherokee language.

Catoosa has been a transportation hub since before its founding. The Atlantic and Paci c Railroad tracks ran through town, shipping cattle east from Catoosa. It sits on the Mother Road and today is where I-44 and Highway 412 converge.

CATOOSA IS HOME TO ROUTE 66 ICON THE BLUE WHALE.

The larger-than-life whale was built in the 1970s by Hugh Davis as an anniversary present to his wife, Zelta . Once a swimming hole, today the property features a gift shop and some picnic tables. The property has been owned by the City of Catoosa since April 2020 with planned enhancements in the works.

The Blue Whale is open daily for visitors.

9,500

THE NUMBER OF PEOPLE CATOOSA FIRE DEPARMENT PROTECTS IN ROGERS AND WAGONER COUNTIES

THE D.W. CORRELL MUSEUM IS NAMED AFTER A CATOOSA RESIDENT AND BENEFACTOR. IT’S HOME TO AN IMPRESSIVE COLLECTION OF ROCKS, GEMS, FOSSILS AND MINERALS FROM AROUND THE WORLD, AS WELL AS ANTIQUE TOYS AND CARS, BOTTLES AND DECANTERS, SEASHELLS AND CORAL.

In July, Catoosa Public Schools Board of Education approved the use of Wells Middle School’s dome cafeteria as a community storm shelter during non-school hours. It can hold up to 500 people. The school opened the lunch hall/tornado shelter in 2016. It sits where an EF4 tornado caused destruction in 1993.

The MCCLELLAN-KERR ARKANSAS RIVER NAVIGATION SYSTEM and the TULSA PORT OF CATOOSA was officially dedicated on June 5, 1971, by President Richard Nixon . The cost to build the waterway system was $1.2 billion, and since January 1971 nearly 100 million tons have been shipped via the port, according to officials.

Today it is located on 2,500 acres with 71 companies employing 2,600-plus people. The port generates an annual economic impact of over $300 million. It features an industrial park, barge port and rail transload facility. In October 2019 the port doubled in size with the development of an expansion in Inola. A year later its first tenant — Italian tissue paper manufacturer Sofidel — opened a 1.8 million-square-foot manufacturing and distribution space that employes 400.

What is now HARD ROCK HOTEL AND CASINO in Catoosa first started as a bingo hall in 1993. Over the past 31 years, numerous amenities and entertainment enhancements have been made on the property located at 777 W. Cherokee St.

As both the property and city grew with development, the Nation partnered with the state and local governments on a $45 million road and bridge project at I-44 and 193rd East Avenue, which sees about 85,000 cars a day, according to Oklahoma Department of Transportation.

Across the street, the Catoosa Hills shopping center opened in 2015 and is home to many big-box retailers, restaurants and hotels.

GLENPOOL

LOCATION: southwest of Tulsa

FOUNDED: 1908

POPULATION: 13,691*

AVERAGE ANNUAL GROWTH RATE FROM 2000-2023: 64.4%*

MEDIAN HOME SALE PRICE: $287,500**

WHAT’S IN A NAME: It was the Glenn Pool that brought oil eld workers to the area in 1905.

According to the City of Glenpool, the community has been known as “The Town that made Tulsa Famous” because of the 1905 discovery of oil on the land of Ida E. Glenn

People from all over the country came by train, horse and buggy, and by foot to the Muscogee Nation Reservation pre-statehood to chase the dream of striking rich from black gold. There was grafting, murder and more during the oil boom at the Glenn Pool, which led to Tulsa becoming “Oil Capital of the World” a century ago.

Black Gold Days is an annual festival in Black Gold Park.

In August construction began on a $31 million bridge project at the intersection of Highway 75 and 141st Street, which saw 48,260 vehicles each day in 2022. Future tra ic predictions are 75,820 vehicles per day. Oklahoma Department of Transportation will convert the intersection to a grade separated (bridge) interchange with the highway going over 141st with entrance and exit ramps. ODOT expects the project to be completed in 2025.

Glenpool has six community parks, with BLACK GOLD, 95 W. 145th St., being the most popular. It features a splash pad, six gazebos, grills, a playground, tennis courts, a walking trail, horseshoes and more.

From May through October, Black Gold is also the home of the Glenpool Farmers’ Market. It is a 100% producer grown market and is registered with the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry as an “OK Grown” Market and Farmers’ Market Hub.

JJ’S ASIAN MARKET IS ONE OF TWO STORES IN GLENPOOL THAT CATERS TO THE CITY’S GROWING POPULATION OF ASIAN RESIDENTS. CITY OFFICIALS SAY WALMART AND COUNTRY MART HAVE ALSO EXPANDED THEIR OFFERINGS.

FRANKOMA POTTERY has a long history in Oklahoma. Began in Norman in 1933, the company moved to Sapulpa in 1938 where it remained until 2010.

Two years later, Dennis Glascock purchased Frankoma and opened its current storefront and manufacturing facility at 17117 S. Union Ave. in 2022. “Frankoma

Pottery has a very rich Oklahoma history,” Glascock says. “We honor that history by giving plant tours describing both our manufacturing processess and also giving credit to the company founders, John and Grace Lee Frank .”

The Glenpool site — which Glascock says he chose for its access to Highway 75, affordability and the community’s excellent growth trend — sells items currently in production and vintage ware.

According to Lea Ann Reed, Glenpool’s Chief Administrative O icer, Glenpool city council is nalizing the rst-ever strategic plan for the city that focues on resources and e orts to improve: Economic Health, Transportation, Infrastructure, Housing, and Culture and Entertainment.

Glenpool Farmers’ Market

JENKS

LOCATION: southwest of Tulsa

FOUNDED: 1905

POPULATION: 25,949*

AVERAGE ANNUAL GROWTH RATE FROM 2000-2023: 182.36%*

MEDIAN HOME SALE PRICE: $377,500**

For decades, Jenks has been a shopper’s destination. For years it was known as the Antique Capital of Oklahoma with numerous shops along the community’s historic Main Street. While some of those still exist, many more commercial developments have opened in the suburb in recent years.

Tulsa Premium Outlets opened in August at 801 E. Outlet Drive in Jenks with more than 330,000 square feet of retail, entertainment, fast-casual restaurants and amenities. It is home to more than 75 shops — such as Tory Burch, Nike Factory Store, Kate Spade and Vineyard Vines — along with several green spaces, a 20,000-squarefoot play children’s play area, a fountain and more. Jenks Director of Communications Katie Butterfield says it is expected to draw 6-7 million visitors annually, bring in $100 million in revenue and create more than 600 jobs.

WHAT’S IN A NAME: Named after railroad o icial Elmer E. Jenks *SOURCE: U.S.

Tulsa Premium Outlets opened in August south of the Creek Turnpike.

In 2023 Smart Asset named Jenks the Safest Suburb in Oklahoma.

700+ NEW TREES PLANTED SINCE 2020

EFFORTS HAVE STARTED FOR THE SOUTH TULSA/JENKS LOW-WATER DAM IN THE ARKANSAS RIVER. THE CITY OF JENKS HAS COMMITTED $16.67 MILLION TO THE PROJECT, WITH $730 MILLION IN COMMERCIAL CAPITAL DEVOTED TO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS, ACCORDING TO THE CITY’S 2022-2023 ANNUAL REPORT. BUTTERFIELD SAYS DESIGN OF THE DAM IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN NEXT YEAR.

Lizzie, a rescue from the Jenks Animal Shelter, is a certified therapy dog for the Jenks Police Department where she serves as emotional support to officers and those in need.

OKLAHOMA AQUARIUM, WHICH OPENED IN JENKS IN 2003, IS HOME TO THE LARGEST COLLECTION OF BULL SHARKS IN CAPTIVITY IN THE WORLD.

Restaurant, hotel, commercial and residential development has popped up since Oklahoma Aquarium’s opening 11 years ago. Riverwalk opened in 2005 and is now owned and operated by the Muscogee Nation and its subsidiary Onefire Holding Co.

Several businesses are developing new sites in Jenks including Camp Pickle — which combines pickleball courts with a restaurant — McNellie’s Group’s City Hall Steak and Cocktail, Jenks Market food hall and others.

Read about e orts to name downtown the Ten District on p. 14.

Jenks Main Street is home to several longtime businesses, such as bakery Cookiedoodle, which is owned by Abby Nein

OWASSO

LOCATION: north of Tulsa

FOUNDED: 1881

POPULATION: 38,240*

AVERAGE ANNUAL GROWTH RATE FROM 2000-2023: 113.22%*

MEDIAN HOME SALE PRICE: $312,500**

WHAT’S IN A NAME:

The Elm Creek Settlement was home to a rail line that ended in a turnaround “Y” near its depot. The Osage word “Owasso” means “the end” or “turn around.”

Downtown Owasso became known as the Redbud District after a community vote in 2016. Along with several businesses and eateries in the area, the district is home to Redbud Festival Park, 109 N. Main St., a free public space that is the site of numerous community events throughout the year.

On the first Thursday of every month is the Gathering on Main where food trucks, live entertainment, vendors and artists gather. The park is home to a farmers’ market Saturdays in MayOctober. Community movie nights are popular, too.

This antique Shell truck rests in downtown Owasso at what is now a Blue Energy Fuels CNG station. Blue Energy Fuels is an Owasso-based renewable energy company.

Beyond health care and education , AMERICAN AIRLINES is the largest employer in the area with more than 4,000 employees.

In 2024 WalletHub named Owasso one of the best small cities to live in.

Stone Canyon is a residential community that encompasses 3,000 acres with homes, an elementary school, green spaces and more. It is also home to Patriot Golf Club, a 19-hole golf course that opened in 2010.

THE TIMMY AND CINDY PROJECT IS A PUBLIC ART INITIATIVE THAT STARTED IN 2004 AND NOW INCLUDES 42 STATUES OF THE BOY AND GIRL CHARACTERS SPREAD ACROSS THE CITY.

In March the OWASSO HIGH SCHOOL BOYS BASKETBALL TEAM, led by now-junior Jalen Montonati, won the school’s first state basketball championship. It’s the latest championship trophy to enter the school’s hall of honors. Owasso High School has long been known for its consistent success in baseball, winning 14 state championships in the past 25 years, including the most recent in 2022. The Rams football team last won a state title in 2019 — their third overall — and the team remains a strong contender for state every season. Boys’ and girls’ golf have each won two championships in the past decade, and the cheerleading squad won five consecutive state championships from 2018-2022.

96th Street North along both sides of Highway 169 is undergoing a significant improvement project to ease traffic in all directions. The $2.8 million project is expected to be completed before the end of the year.

Redbud District

SAND SPRINGS

LOCATION: west of Tulsa

FOUNDED: 1912

POPULATION: 19,874*

AVERAGE ANNUAL GROWTH RATE FROM 2000-2023: 13.85%*

MEDIAN HOME SALE PRICE: $226,500**

WHAT’S IN A NAME: Clear, sandy springs used to ow in the area near Home Hill.

Downtown Sand Springs has long been a hub of commercial activity around numerous blocks and the central Triangle Park. In December 2023, Sand Springs City Council named the downtown area The Box District in honor of the late Montie R. Box (see more on p. 30).

There has been a swell of development, especially along North Main Street where Boulder Co ee, Big Dipper Creamery and several retail operations like Coble’s Creations reside.

*SOURCE: U.S. CENSUS BUREAU; **SOURCE: REALTOR.COM

“Yesterday to Now” by Josh Butts is a mural depicting the trolley that ran from Sand Springs to Tulsa from the 1910s to the 1950s.

Charles Page

THE MUNICIPAL WILLIAM R. POGUE AIRPORT WAS NAMED AFTER THE SAND SPRINGS HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATE AND SKYLAB 4 ASTRONAUT. THIS YEAR THE CITY’S $1 MILLION PROJECT ADDRESSED CRACKING ON THE TAXIWAY AND UPGRADED THE 5,800-FOOT-LONG RUNWAY LIGHTING WITH LED LIGHTS.

2024 marked the 35th annual HERBAL AFFAIR AND FESTIVAL a springtime garden, craft and community festival.

A $3 million, 7,020-square-foot ANIMAL WELFARE FACILITY will be built on Wekiwa Road and tentatively open in 2025.

SAND SPRINGS PUBLIC SCHOOL STUDENTS ARE CALLED SANDITES — THE EMBODIMENTS OF “THE PERSON YOU WANT TO BE,” ACCORDING TO THE SCHOOL’S WEBSITE. THE TERM COMES FROM RAILROAD TERMINOLOGY. THE MASCOT IS A MINUTE MAN, WHICH BEARS NO CONNECTION TO THE TERM SANDITE.

With its 2022 $15.725 million GO Bond approval, $3.8 million is going toward the city’s parks and recreation facilities, including improvements and renovations at the Canyons at Blackjack Ridge, Sand Springs Cultural and Historical Museum , Page Park and Case Park .

RIVERWEST, a 30-acre development including many national chains and services, generates $1 million in sales-tax revenue each year, reports the Sand Springs leader.

SHELL LAKE’s dam was completed in 1922 to provide the growing town with a reliable water source. Today the lake has over 11 miles of shoreline and welcomes anglers, boaters and picnickers.

The Cross Timbers ecoregion is an area of similar soils, plants and animals that spans areas in Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas. A perfect example of this can be found at the KEYSTONE ANCIENT FOREST, a preserve managed by the City of Sand Springs that boasts 500-year-old cedar and 300-year-old oak trees. Its ever-expanding trail system has been open to the public since 2007.

Nearby, KEYSTONE STATE PARK offers different activities and amenities for guests. Whether you’re looking to spend some time on the water, stay in a cabin or campground, go fishing or play around on your ATV, there are options for anyone wanting to spend some time outside.

Shell Lake

SAPULPA

LOCATION: southwest of Tulsa

FOUNDED: 1898

POPULATION: 21,929*

AVERAGE ANNUAL GROWTH RATE FROM 2000-2023: 9.19%*

MEDIAN HOME SALE PRICE: $219,000**

WHAT’S IN A NAME: Muscogee Chief Sapulpa was the area’s rst permanent settler.

Downtown Sapulpa is thriving. In the past 30 years, $35 million in private and public funds have been put into the area’s brick-and-mortar projects. In 2020, Sapulpa voters approved a massive General Obligation Bond series of propositions calling for more than $40 million in improvements. Of this, $10.6 million has been committed to streetscaping, road improvements, signage and enhancements.

In addition to developments along Route 66/Dewey Avenue, one block north on Hobson Avenue has seen signi cant renovation and development, including James Calley Brewing Co., Sugar Llamas and more. It is also the site of the annual

Hops festival.

Hobson

The 2024 Hobson Hops Festival included a preview of the new James Calley Brewing Co., Sapulpa’s first brewery.

“It’s like a (Norman) Rockwell painting come to life,” says Joni Rogers-Kante of the revitalization of downtown Sapulpa. Rogers-Kante is the founder of SeneGence, a leading direct-sales beauty brand. The company has moved its headquarters from Southern California to her hometown of Sapulpa. Since 2022, the Kante Group has opened CROSSROADS COOKERY, TEEPEE DRIVEIN, WAYPOINT LOUNGE, CROSSROADS COFFEE LAB and SSTYLE BOUTIQUE

SAPULPA IS HOME TO THE WORLD’S TALLEST GAS PUMP OUTSIDE THE HEART OF ROUTE 66 AUTO MUSEUM.

IN ITS LIFETIME, SAPULPA HAS BEEN HOME TO SIGNIFICANT BUSINESSES MAKING GLASS, BRICKS AND POTTERY.  TODAY ARDAGH GROUP MAKES GLASS CONTAINERS NEAR THE NORTHERN ENTRANCE TO TOWN.

CHRISTMAS CHUTE started in 2022 and has already garnered national attention with articles in Southern Living and appearances on NBC’s Today Show. Committee member Jennifer Dilley says the free event features more than 800 feet of decor themed to different holiday aesthetics, all surrounded by light displays, food trucks and other interests in the historic downtown area. This year’s festivities start Nov. 14.

Sapulpa High School will build a new campus thanks to voters approving a $276 million bond package in 2023. The project includes a new performing arts center, safety enhancements, a FEMA-rated storm shelter, fabrication lab, and new and improved athletic facilities including fields and sports courts. The high school’s Educational Pathways program was recently developed to set students up for success after graduation in several fields. tp

Is it Christmas yet? Not quite, but it’s right around the corner!

In the meantime, let’s dive into the festive spirit with parades, music, dazzling lights, holiday markets and more.

We’ve put together a list to help you celebrate this joyful season with family and friends. Visit TulsaPeople.com for a complete list of holiday events!

Enjoy every moment. Happy holidays!

COMPILED

BY

LISETTE BUCKMAN AND CAROLINA F. BOCOCK

Nov. 9-10

CHRISTKINDL MARKET

11 a.m.-7 p.m., Nov. 9; 11 a.m.5 p.m., Nov. 10 | $10-$25

Experience a traditional Bavarian market while enjoying a plethora of local vendors and artisans.

OKM Music, 415 S. Dewey Ave., Bartlesville | okmmusic.org

Nov. 17-Jan. 15

POP-UP DOWNTOWN

Times vary | Prices vary Shop emerging and growing entrepreneurs as well as established local brands as part of Downtown Tulsa Partnership’s Downtown Days of Wonder.

Downtown Tulsa | downtowndaysofwonder

Nov. 22-Jan. 1

JOLLY LANE LIGHTS

5:30-10 p.m. | $25 a vehicle Be transported into a winter wonderland with Admiral Twin Drive-In’s light display.

Admiral Twin Drive-In, 7355 E. Easton St. | jollylanelights .com

Nov. 28

LIGHTS ON AT UTICA SQUARE

6:30 p.m. | Free

Welcome the Christmas holidays at the annual lights-on ceremony where musicians perform some of their alltime favorite carols in the brightly lit Utica Square.

Utica Square, 21st Street and Utica Ave. | uticasquare.com

Nov. 28-Dec. 31

CASTLE CHRISTMAS

5:30 p.m. | Free Drive through the Castleton Village illuminated with thousands of lights and displays. Go inside the castle for extra festivities.

3400 Fern Mountain Road, Muskogee | okcastle.com

Nov. 29-30, Dec. 5-7, 12-15, 18-23, 26-28

PHILBROOK FESTIVAL

$25, adults; $10, children and members | VIP Tickets available online

Enjoy holiday music, lights and family-fun activities both indoor and outdoor.

Philbrook Museum of Art, 2727 S. Rockford Road | philbrook.org/festival

Nov. 29-Dec. 1, 5-8, 12-23, 26-30

BOTANIC GARDEN OF LIGHTS

5 p.m. | Advance, timed entry tickets | $10-$22

Cozy up with s’mores over fire pits, engage in friendly snowball fights and enjoy holiday music in this garden wonderland.

Tulsa Botanic Garden, 3900 Tulsa Botanic Drive | tulsabotanic.org

Nov. 29-Jan. 6

ARVEST WINTERFEST

Times vary | Prices vary with a range of discounts offered

The time has come to bundle up and enjoy the spirit of the holidays as the winter festival returns to downtown.

Lace up your skates and have a great time!

BOK Center, 200 S. Denver Ave. | tulsawinterfest.com

Nov. 30

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS CELEBRATION

5 p.m. | Free

Make sure to make it out for the official train lighting ceremony, complete with Santa!

Route 66 Historical Village, 3770 Southwest Blvd. | route66village.com

Nov. 30

MARIACHI CHRISTMAS

7:30 p.m. | $29-$150

Join the Tulsa Symphony Orchestra, led by Maestro Hector Guzman, for a spectacular Christmas event featuring the world-renowned Mariachi Los Camperos.

Tulsa PAC, 110 E. Second St. | tulsapac.com

Nov. 30-Dec. 24

GATHERING PLACE WINTER EVENTS

Times vary | Free

Guests can enjoy holiday crafts, educational activities, games and music at Williams Lodge. On Saturdays and Sundays, Santa and Mrs. Claus will be available for free photos. Gathering Place, 2650 S. John Williams Way | gatheringplace.org

Nov. 30-Dec. 31

ROUTE 66 TWINKLE TOUR

Times vary | Free

Celebrate the holidays on the historic highway with its Twinkle Tour. Multiple locations | rt66tulsa.org

Dec. 3

CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON AND FASHION SHOW

10 a.m. | $75

Hosted by Tulsa Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary, this auction, luncheon and fashion show is themed “This Little Light of Mine.” Renaissance Tulsa Hotel and Convention Center, 6808 S. 107th E. Ave. | give.salvationarmyaok.org

Dec. 5-8

CHRISTKINDLMARKT

Times vary | Prices vary People from all over flock to the German markets to shop, dine and enjoy the many wonders of local artisans and vendors. From this time-honored tradition, the German-American Society of Tulsa’s Christkindlmarkt was born. German-American Society of Tulsa Event Center, 2301 E. 15th St. | gastulsa.org/christkindlmarkt

Dec. 6

ALL IS BRIGHT CHRISTMAS TOUR

7 p.m. | $25-$75

A night of joyful and festive performances by the Gaither Vocal Band. Mabee Center, 7777 S. Lewis Ave. | oru.edu

Dec. 6

GLOW ON THE GREEN

6 p.m. | Free

Thousands of lights and holiday festivities for all ages will fill the Arts District park again this holiday season. Festivities kick-off with Lights On, hosted by News on 6 Chief Meteorologist Travis Meyer. Glow on the Green holiday lights will be on every night through Jan. 2. Guthrie Green, 111 Reconciliation Way | guthriegreen.org

Dec. 6

LIGHTS ON AT TU

6 p.m. | Free

This annual event sees the campus light its million blue and white lights. The University of Tulsa, 800 S. Tucker Drive | utulsa.edu

Dec. 6

TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA

6 p.m. | $63.99-$109.99

Trans-Siberian Orchestra is bringing its electrifying holiday rock opera

“The Last Christmas Eve” tour to Tulsa. Fans can expect some of the band’s greatest hits, making it clear why audiences keep coming back year after year.

BOK Center, 200 S. Denver Ave. | bokcenter.com

Dec. 6-8, 12-15, 19-22

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

Multiple performance times | $20-$35

Banish those “Bah Humbugs” with American Theatre Co.’s musical adaptation of the beloved classic.

Written by Robert Odle and Richard Averill, this show is a real Tulsa tradition — created, designed and acted entirely by Tulsans for nearly 50 years!

Tulsa PAC, 110 E. Second St. | tulsapac.com

Dec. 7

A KRISTIN CHENOWETH CHRISTMAS

7:30 p.m. | $41-$65

Filled with holiday classics both old and new, the concert highlights the Tony and Emmy Award-winning actress’s favorite time of year.

Broken Arrow Performing Arts Center, 701 S. Main St., Broken Arrow | brokenarrowpac.com

Dec. 7

ART IN THE PARK 5-8 p.m. | Free

Expect live performances, holiday eats and sips as well as local art available for purchase while learning about Tulsa’s art partners. Guthrie Green, 111 E. Reconciliation Way | artstulsa.org

Dec. 7

JINGLE BELL RUN

10 a.m. | $25-$50

Now in its 40th year, this festive race benefits the Arthritis Foundation.

River West Festival Park, 2100 S. Jackson Ave. | events.arthritis.org

Dec. 7

YULETIDE MARKET

8:30 a.m.-noon | Free

Join Tulsa Farmers’ Market for its annual Yuletide Market that includes Santa meet-and-greets and caroling from Tulsa Opera.

Tulsa Farmers’ Market, 1 S. Lewis Ave. | tulsafarmersmarket.org

Dec. 7, 14

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

9 a.m. | $34, members; $41, non-members; $7 kids, 2 and under Registration includes a full hot breakfast buffet, arts and crafts, cookie decorating, photo opportunities with Santa, Polar Express train ride from zoo entrance and animal chat.

Tulsa Zoo, 6421 E. 36th St. N. | tulsazoo.org/visit/events/santa

Dec. 8-22

THE NUTCRACKER

Multiple performance times | $38-$132

The traditional tale is infused with elements of Tulsa with live accompaniment by the Tulsa Symphony Orchestra.

Tulsa PAC, 101 E. Second St. | tulsaballet.org

Dec. 10

GRADY NICHOLS CHRISTMAS SHOW

BENEFITING LISA BAIN MINISTRIES

6 p.m. | $25-$55

Now in its eighth year, 2024’s show will showcase the talents of Andy Chrisman and Kelly Ford, LeAnne Taylor, along with a 12-person cast of performers and a choir.

Mabee Center, 7777 S. Lewis Ave. | mabeecenter.com

Dec. 13, 14

CHRISTMAS IN TULSA

7:30 p.m. | $39-$85

For two nights, Signature Symphony dazzles with orchestral renditions of holiday classics.

Vantrease PACE, 10300 E. 81st St. | signaturesymphony.org

Dec. 14

TULSA CHRISTMAS PARADE

11 a.m. | Free

Since 1926 the Tulsa Christmas Parade has entertained thousands of children and adults year after year. Downtown Tulsa | tulsachristmasparade.org

Dec. 19

HALLELUJAH IT’S A CHRISTMAS TOUR

7 p.m. | $29-$384.75

Pentatonix, a Grammy-award winning quintet, celebrates the season with its festive tunes. BOK Center, 200 S. Denver Ave. | bokcenter.com

Dec. 31

SEVENTH NIGHT HANUKKIAH LIGHTING

5 p.m. | Free

Gather on Temple Israel’s lawn to help them light their Hanukkiah on the seventh night of Hannukah. All are welcome.

Temple Israel, 2004 E. 22nd Place | templetulsa.com tp

Tulsa Christmas Parade

‘Every purchase matters’

The busy holiday shopping season is paramount for local retailers.

BY ANNE BROCKMAN

The week of Halloween is a busy one for Laura Sanders, owner of Surcee’ Gifts and Home in Owasso. “We completely transition our store for every holiday,” she says, but Christmas is something di erent all together. For ve days she and her sta of 11 prep her store for an immersive shopping experience. “It’s an explosion when you walk in,” Sanders says.

And that’s what Surcee’s customers of 17 years have come to expect and something shoppers across the country want, too. Professional services network PwC says 22% of consumers consider holiday displays and store atmosphere as the top factor on why they visit physical stores during the holiday season. Holiday-speci c products and making an event out of the shopping trip round out the top three.

“Tulsa has a special retail community,” says Lisa Wake eld , owner of Jenkins and

Co., a 9-year-old business that presents a curated collection of artisan-made and thoughtfully designed quality goods at her shop in the Meadow Gold District. As she prepares for the upcoming holiday shopping season, she’s looking forward to seeing customers who have become friends and those visiting from out of town. “Retail is a unique way to be engaged in the community and I think I speak for most shop owners when I say that the best part of our job is the people we meet,” she says.

An Owasso native, Sanders’ love of retail is evident when she speaks about her customers. “We don’t take anything for granted and appreciate that people take the time to shop with us,” she says.

e holiday shopping season which some say o cially begins with Black Friday (Nov. 29), Small Business Saturday (Nov. 30) and Cyber Monday (Dec. 2) is an important one for retailers. “December is the

biggest month of the year,” Wake eld says. American Express reports U.S. consumers who shopped at independent retailers and restaurants on Small Business Saturday 2023 spent an estimated $17 billion. Surcee’s shoppers are the ones who make it possible for Sanders to donate to local charities, hire local sta and support other local businesses.

As a small business owner herself, Wake eld is intentional when she shops and does business in her community. “I try to support as many businesses as I can,” she says, noting “if we want them to stay in our community, we need to support them. Every purchase matters.”

at goes for any time of year but especially this go-big-or-go-home spending season. “Supporting local business, whatever it is, will only make our community stronger and more connected. Be sure to visit your favorites this holiday season. It won’t go unnoticed.” tp

Left, Laura Sanders is the owner of Surcee’ Gifts and Home, located at 9455 N. Owasso Expressway, Suite CB in Owasso. Right, Lisa Wakefield is the owner of Jenkins and Co., located at 1335 E. 11th St., Suite E.

SWEET ESCAPES

4 winter getaways that are sure to warm both body and spirit.

BY RHYS MARTIN

For some folks, winter means hibernating under blankets until the warmth of the springtime sun returns, or turning attention to projects around the house for the duration. But it doesn’t have to be that way whether you like to bury yourself in the snow or seek out a destination far from the frosty reaches of Old Man Winter, it’s a great time to travel.

Big Cottonwood Canyon near Salt Lake City, Utah

NEW ORLEANS

e Big Easy tends to maintain autumn temperatures in November, so it’s a good place to visit if Oklahoma gets an early freeze. If you’re craving a taste of Mardi Gras energy, take a trip to the Crescent City on Nov. 1-2 for Bayou Bacchanal, a cultural festival that celebrates local traditions with a parade, cuisine, food and more. For sports fans, the New Orleans Pelicans host the Oklahoma City under on Dec. 7, plus New Orleans Saints games and the Sugar Bowl are always a fun time.

For history lovers, there are many things here you can see to educate yourself about the unique cultural crossroads that exist in Louisiana. Jackson Square is a good place to start, but the entire French Quarter and surrounding neighborhoods are full of unique experiences. Historic cemeteries are a draw for those seeking architectural and supernatural thrills.

e New Orleans Pharmacy Museum is a fascinating and unique look at 19th century medicine and tradition that’s much more interesting than it might sound. And, although it’s not speci c to Louisiana, the National World War II Museum here is an unparalleled look at America’s contribution to the war e ort. It features interactive exhibits, personal stories and a multi-story hall of hanging restored vintage aircrafts you can walk right up to and admire.

I’m a sucker for classic drive-in style burger dives, and if that’s up your alley make plans to stop in at Ted’s Frostop Diner on Calhoun Street. You can’t miss the giant root beer sign out front!

DENVER AREA

e Mile High City is a short nonstop ight away and is another place you don’t have to dig very far to nd lots to do to enjoy a weekend away from home. You can even nd a nostalgic taste of Tulsa in Lakewood at the last remaining Casa Bonita, which was purchased and renovated by the team responsible for the “South Park” television show. e location here is larger than Tulsa’s lost restaurant was, but it is similar in many ways. When you return home with a smashed Casa Bonita penny, everyone is going to ask where you got it!

If you expand your visit to nearby Boulder — Oklahoma State University fans might make the trek on Nov. 29 for the team’s rst bout with University of Colo-

rado since 2008 — make time for a visit to the Dushanbe Tea House. is elaborate teahouse was designed in Tajikistan, then shipped to Boulder and built by hand. e building is beautiful and intricate, and the tea is a wonderful way to warm up on a cold day.

For people who embrace the cold and can’t wait to hit the slopes, Denver is the gateway to the Rocky Mountains. Of the many options, Eldora Mountain near Nederland provides family friendly options and a lovely small town nearby to explore. Nederland is also the home of the Carousel of Happiness, a hand-carved 1910 carousel with a Wurlitzer organ that has brought smiles to generations of children and the young-at-heart.

Fountain of the Seven Sisters inside Dushanbe Tea House in Boulder, Colorado.

The New Orleans Pharmacy Museum sits in the French Quarter.

The last remaining Casa Bonita can be found in Lakewood, a suburb of Denver, Colorado.

BRANSON, MISSOURI

November weather in the Midwest can be unpredictable. Sometimes the freezing temperatures move in early, other times it’s warm until anksgiving. Regardless of the weather pattern, Table Rock Lake in Missouri is an active, engaging option for the whole family. If it’s on the warmer side, the Top of the Rock golf course is a championship-level experience designed by Jack Nicklaus. If it’s on the cooler side, check out the Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum. As soon as you walk in you’re greeted by a massive woolly mammoth skeleton. Many other creature recreations await inside the facility along with artifacts dating up through the Civil War period. e complex also features the Lost Canyon Cave and Nature Trail, a self-guided golf cart tour that ends in a beautiful four-story cave.

A more thrilling self-service ride is not too far away at the Branson Mountain Adventure Park. If you’re sticking to the Top of the Rock area, the Osage Restaurant on-site provides a wonderful view of the lake and surrounding landscape and an upscale food selection. Branson is not far away, either, which makes it easy to enhance a trip with any number of shows, restaurants and experiences that have made this community such a popular year-long destination.

SALT LAKE CITY

Jumping back to an embrace of winter’s chill, Salt Lake City is one of Tulsa’s direct ight destinations and is often underrated. Utah’s Bonneville Salt Flats west of town are like no other place on earth and must be visited at least once. Big Cottonwood Canyon to the southeast is a cold weather destination for any budget, whether you prefer to take a drive among the scenery, hike in the Uintah-Wasatch-Cache National Forest or pack your skis for a weekend on the mountain. ere are two highly regarded ski resorts here: Brighton and Solitude.

For even more outdoor options, take the short drive to Park City. is town was the setting of the 2002 Winter Olympics, and the Olympic Park still hosts all kinds of activities that appeal to both the young and old. ere are many ski resorts here, as well as a healthy spa community, a historic downtown, museums and more. Top of Main Brew Pub is a great place to rest and sample some local craft beer that isn’t available in Oklahoma. tp

Branson Mountain Adventure Park

Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum at Top of the Rock outside Branson, Missouri.

Come Home for the Holidays at Big Cedar Lodge.

Feel the enchantment of the holiday season at America’s Premier Wilderness Resort, Big Cedar Lodge. With trees filled with ornaments and over 4 million holiday lights illuminating every corner, we invite you to join us in celebrating our ‘Home for the Holidays’ season from November 8 to December 31.

Snuggle up with a warm cup of hot cocoa and sit back and relax on Big Cedar’s twinkling tram tour through our newly expanded holiday light display! Guests are invited to take in the festive sights around Big Cedar on our unique tram rides while enjoying a complimentary hot chocolate or cider and a traveling s’more on a stick! Tram pick-up and drop-offs will be at Swimmin’ Hole Lawn from 6pm-9:40pm. ($25/Overnight Guests | $30/Public Day Guests).

During this festive season, Big Cedar also hosts a weekly Tree Lighting Ceremony every Saturday evening. Gather with your family and friends for this classic holiday event held at the Ice Rink with appearances from The Grinch and Santa Claus! Following the light-

ing, kids will have the chance to sit on Santa’s lap and receive a special gift. The weekly Tree Lighting Ceremony is complimentary for all guests.

Chrismas crafting and special visits from holiday friends are a favorite for everyone at Big Cedar. Santa, his elves, and Mrs. Claus bring holiday cheer with photo opportunities, ornament painting, breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus, cookie baking, and more. Even the Grinch & Cindy Lou Who will be visiting Fun Mountain to spread Christmas cheer and play games!

Experience cherished Christmas traditions the whole family adores and prepare to feel the nostalgia and magic of the season at the coziest resort nestled in the heart of the Ozark Mountains. There’s truly no place like Home for the Holidays at Big Cedar Lodge!

READ MORE ABOUT ALL HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES AT BIGCEDAR.COM/ HOLIDAYS.

Savor the day at Finley Farms

Located between Wonders of Wildlife and Big Cedar Lodge, Finley Farms and The Ozark Mill serve as a historic destination featuring farm-forward restaurants, hands-on experiences, vibrant event venues and an urban farm.

A family passion project — multiple generations of the Morris family have poured their hearts into this special place to reveal a new take on the historic, nature-based venues that you have come to love at Big Cedar Lodge and Bass Pro Shops. Born out of a genuine passion for local heritage, it is a bold dream and commitment to making some magic in the heart of the Ozarks and telling the seldom-heard stories of a slower way of life.

Situated on the banks of the Finley River, this all-season cultural experience is a must-see for travelers on their journey to or through the Missouri Ozarks. The property has been carefully restored and embraces the local heritage with a nostalgic, yet modern shift towards a simpler way of living. Initially built in the early 1800s

and preserved with care, The Ozark Mill serves as the heart of the property and uniquely showcases the spirit of the Ozarks. The family-friendly dining experience features a dining space, bar and patio all overlooking the gentle waters of the river. Additional experiences on property include a charming wedding chapel, The Workshop, a coffee shop and makers space, and The Garrison, a fine dining social affair tucked away beneath The Ozark Mill.

As a nod to The Mill’s original purpose, each experience, along with each menu, highlights traditional selections along with seasonal specialties with many ingredients being sourced directly from the urban farm on property. Take a tour, sip and savor, and discover the Ozarks like never before.

Make reservations and see upcoming activities at finleyfarmsmo.com.

‘TIS

THE SEASON FOR HOLIDAY GATHERINGS

Wonders of Wildlife

Celebrate the holiday season with an unforgettable adventure at Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium! This renowned attraction offers a fun-filled holiday experience like no other, perfect for families, friends and anyone looking to add some magic to their seasonal celebrations.

One of the season’s highlights is the highly anticipated visit from Scuba Claus. Watch as Scuba Claus takes to the water, diving into a massive 87,000-gallon exhibit to swim alongside over 270 animals, including rays, eels and vibrant fish. Be WOW’d as Scuba Claus and his helper, Peppermint, go out to sea, bringing joy to children and adults alike from beneath the waves.

Wonders of Wildlife is also the ultimate holiday excursion, offering incredible animal encounters like the exclusive Out to Sea Shark Dive and Penguin Encounter. Dive into adventure, where you’ll come faceto-fin with some of the ocean’s most awe-inspiring predators in a safe, controlled environment. Additionally, the Penguin Encounter

allows you to meet WOW’s adorable and curious gentoo penguins, learning about their behaviors and habitats from their knowledgeable staff.

Beyond these special encounters, explore 350,000 square feet of immersive exhibits that transport you from the Amazon rainforest to the depths of the ocean. With over 800 species on display, you’ll have the chance to discover some of the world’s most extraordinary creatures up close. Explore breathtaking habitats filled with marine life, from colorful coral reefs to majestic ocean predators, creating a sense of adventure and discovery for all ages.

Wonders of Wildlife is the ideal destination for those seeking a family-friendly escape this holiday season. Don’t miss your chance to journey through the natural world and make unforgettable memories! It’s a holiday adventure you’ll treasure for years to come.

WONDERSOFWILDLIFE.ORG

Dogwood Canyon

Discover the captivating beauty of Dogwood Canyon Nature Park this winter. Explore over 10,00 acres of serene nature as the Ozark landscape transforms into a tranquil winter wonderland. Located in the Ozarks of Missouri, the park is known for its stunning scenery yearround, but winter adds a special touch, with snow-covered trees, frosted streams and quiet trails waiting to be explored.

One of the highlights of visiting Dogwood Canyon during the winter season is the chance to participate in the park’s eagle-watching tours. From December through February, bald eagles migrate through the area, making it a prime time for eagle enthusiasts and nature lovers to witness these majestic birds in their natural habitat. Guided by knowledgeable park staff, the tours offer a chance to observe eagles perched high in trees, soaring over the pristine waters, or hunting for fish along the park’s streams. The guides provide insightful information about the eagles’ behaviors, migration patterns and the ecosystem of the Ozarks, making the experience both educational and awe-inspiring.

Winter also offers opportunities for other outdoor activities, such as hiking along peaceful trails, exploring frozen waterfalls, or taking a scenic tram ride through the canyon and wildlife pastures to witness the bison and elk herds. The crisp air and peaceful ambiance create a perfect setting for visitors to enjoy the natural beauty without the crowds of warmer months. For those looking to warm up after a day outdoors, the Mill and Canyon Grill restaurant offers cozy, rustic seated dining options that are perfect for refueling after a winter adventure.

Dogwood Canyon Nature Park in winter is ideal for those seeking a quiet retreat into nature and is a destination that combines breathtaking scenery, unique wildlife experiences and the peaceful charm of the Ozarks.

DOGWOODCANYON.ORG

Top of the Rock

Experience the magic of winter at Johnny Morris’ Top of the Rock Ozarks Heritage Preserve, where the beauty of the Ozarks is transformed into a nature-filled wonderland. As the crisp winter air settles over the rolling Ozark hills, Top of the Rock offers a perfect retreat for those looking to embrace the season’s charm.

Start your evening with a journey through Nature at Night on the Lost Canyon Cave and Nature Trail, an awe-inspiring experience that takes you on a 2.5-mile journey of tranquil winter landscape. Travel by electric cart through frosted forests and snow-dusted limestone canyons, witnessing stunning light displays and traditional holiday vignettes. Sip on hot beverages and be surrounded by twinkling lights and a festive spirit while connecting to the great outdoors.

After exploring the night’s beauty, warm up in the welcoming embrace of the Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum. Nestled at

the heart of Top of the Rock, the 35,000-square-foot museum is the perfect place to warm up while you discover the rich history and heritage of the region. Explore captivating exhibits, from ancient Native American artifacts to lifelike dioramas of prehistoric creatures that once roamed these lands. The museum’s cozy atmosphere, accented with wood beams and stone fireplaces, invites you to linger and enjoy a warm drink as you reflect on the rich stories of the Ozarks.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff or simply seeking a serene winter escape, Top of the Rock offers an unforgettable experience. Winter transforms this destination into a haven of quiet beauty and cozy warmth, making it the perfect place to create new memories with loved ones.

TOPOFTHEROCK.COM

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Lifestyle

HOME HEALTH TRENDS

GOOD AS GOLD

Cedar and Lily is a women’s fashion boutique that opened this spring in downtown Jenks at 121 E. Main St. The shop carries many designer brands exclusive to Tulsa and unique to Oklahoma. From denim to cocktail attire, shoppers can find everything in between. Cedar and Lily’s custom-made handbags are made of Italian suede and leather, and come in a wide range of styles and color choices. — ANNE BROCKMAN

Cedar and Lily stylist Summer Stevens models a Vida dress by Cara Cara; gingko leaf belt by Frame; and Nora knot bag by Oliveve.

FUNKTIFIED 102 N. Main St., Broken Arrow funktifiedstore.com 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Monday-Wednesday; 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Thursday-Saturday; noon-7 p.m., Sunday.

SHOP FAVORITES

Get funky

Downtown BA boutique o ers fun, unique products.

BY EMMA SIMON

If you’ve driven around the Rose District recently you’ve likely seen the hot pink building on the corner of Broadway and Main. ere’s an unfamiliar word written over the doors: Funkti ed.

“It’s retro maximalism decor,” Sarah Lopp explains. She and husband Chris are standing in front of a painting of a tattooed Queen Elizabeth II. She’s wearing a “We Will Rock You” T-shirt. It’s the work of one of their favorite brands, LX Artworks, led by artist Lindsay Ekstrom. ey have a handful of her pieces hanging in their TikTok-famous — also hot pink — home.

e Lopps opened Funkti ed in May, but their love of maximalism started well before then. e store is an over ow of their home’s aesthetic. “ e more we did (at home), the more fun it became,” Sarah says.

Funkti ed isn’t a boutique, a vintage store or a hat shop, but it carries items in all of those categories. e curiosity of the store is a result of how the Lopps source inventory.

“Chris is an attorney here in Oklahoma, but he’s also a lawyer in the U.K.,” Sarah says. “We travel back and forth a lot. We just go into places we love and we nd unique things.”

“Unique” is key. e Lopps are intentional in choosing Funkti ed’s products. Many of them are from brands they’ve connected with on trips to Europe, and some are from small creators they’ve found on Etsy. “We try to nd weird and unique things for literally everyone,” Sarah says. “Overall, it’s like, what do we love and have we ever seen it before? If we’ve seen it before, we aren’t going to carry it.” tp

“Funktified” T-shirts, $30.

Just Dough It iced pink cake, $52.

Doing Goods handmade rugs from India via Amsterdam, prices vary.

Chris and Sarah Lopp

Ziemienski,

Dr. Jaclyn Rosencutter Duvall is a Tulsa native whose practice focuses on clients with migraine and cluster headaches, as well as headaches related to concussions and postCOVID maladies.

Head to Dr. Duvall

Local specialist helps provide relief, one headache at a time.

Dr. Jaclyn Rosencutter Duvall knows when someone’s in pain, it feels like an emergency. That’s why she offers same-day procedures at Headache Specialists of Tulsa to help keep her patients out of the emergency room. The practice, which opened a year-and-a-half ago, is led by Duvall and two nurse practitioners who treat patients suffering from migraines, cluster headaches and headaches related to concussions and post-COVID conditions.

“If you are having any type of headache, I will see you,” Duvall says.

Duvall’s passion for treating headache patients led her to pursue advanced training through a fellowship at the Mayo Clinic. However, as a Cascia Hall graduate with deep ties to Tulsa, her hometown eventually drew her back.

She knew there would be a need for her services, as the average wait time to see a neurologist or headache doctor was a year. While anyone can get migraines, Duvall’s average patient is someone just like her — a woman of childbearing years who’s working hard to raise a family.

“They need help now,” she says.

In addition, Duvall has written a book aimed at patients — “The Basics of Migraine.” It answers the questions Duvall has been asked over and over and provides an explanation of the “why” behind migraines. Duvall hopes it helps patients realize they aren’t alone.

While there’s no absolute cure for migraines, Duvall can find treatments that help mitigate the symptoms.

“You can give people back days of their life,” she says.  — ABIGAIL SINGREY

Ho-Ho-Holiday cooking

BY CONNIE CRONLEY

Yum. Here it is, time for holiday cooking and festive foods.

I was a Tulsa Tribune restaurant critic for about 15 years and maybe that’s why I don’t enjoy eating out as much as most people. Meals in a home with friends, however that is something I cherish. Recently I learned why.

Social anthropologists call it “commensality,” which roughly means “sharing the table.” is is a distinct human trait. Eating and drinking triggers an endorphin rush that gives us a sense of well-being; eating and drinking together bonds us as a social group. No wonder we’re inclined to family holiday meals, state dinners, ceremonial feasts, even church co ee hour. When we break bread together, we feel we’re among friends. It is comforting and secure.

I’m neither a gourmet nor a gourmand, but I really like reading about food. What fun to come across recipes from famous

people: omas Je erson’s Tarragon Vinegar, Doris Day ’s German Potato Salad, Frida Kahlo’s Zucchini Salad, Jane Austen’s Scalloped Oysters. e recipes make me feel connected to them as though, through food, we are one great family gathered across time around one great table. ere was a decade or so that I delighted in hosting lunches for my book club or simple suppers for friends. Once some 50 people crowded into my small house for a party of Champagne and caviar celebrating Moscelyne Larkin’s birthday. Usually, only six of us squeezed around my small table for ordinary food (my Oklahoma version of cuisine à la bonne femme) and good conversation.

I recently came across a little book I kept in those days recording the menu, cookbooks, table setting and guest list. ere’s a sweetness to seeing how much care I took for those simple meals. Often

in warmer seasons I served a whole salmon let baked in the oven with lots of herbs along with cold asparagus or green salad. In the fall I baked thick pork chops or pork loin. I remember how the house smelled of sage and poached pears with honey. I used “ e Silver Palate Cookbook” for vegetables, Victoria magazine for desserts. I liked to serve a big wedge of blue cheese with sliced apples and walnuts. For lunch, I made Cosmic Chicken Salad by combining two recipes from the “Fannie Farmer Cookbook.”

Authors M.F.K. Fisher and Marcel Proust are right: food stirs up strong memories. My little circle of friends included great conversationalists: Anna Norberg, Joseph Kestner, Rennard Strickland , Carol Haralson, Ed Wade, Judy and Rodger Randle, Roberta and Garrick Bailey. ese were the regulars. Some have moved away, some are now dead. How we talked: literature, art, history, anthropology, local politics, gossip, personal misadventures — all the things that cemented us together. I wish I had recorded what we said at my little ephemeral dinner parties. ese parties were BTBD (before two big dogs). Quiet little cats inhabited my house during my hostess days. During one dinner, Phoebe cat leaped to the table and threaded her way through the serving dishes to greet her special human friend Anna . My guests were charmed; that’s why they were my friends.

Now, I am more interested in reading about meals than serving them. A book of movie stars’ holiday recipes includes Donna Reed ’s Lemon Bundt Cake, a disappointment because it’s made with a package of lemon cake mix and a box of instant lemon pudding.

Robert Mitchum’s Eggnog, however, is the real deal:

12 egg yolks

1 pound confectioners’ sugar

1 quart rum, brandy or whiskey

2 quarts cream

1 quart milk

12 egg whites

1/2 teaspoon salt

Beat egg yolks and sugar together, then beat in spirit. Add cream and milk. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites with salt until sti but not dry. Fold this mixture into the liquid. Chill. Serves 20. tp

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JENKS SOUTH EAST

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SIGNAL HILL

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.

MIDTOWN

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

SAPULPA

Fabulous cul-de-sac lot in Ashlane Estates! Ashlane is a newer luxury neighborhood near Hwy 75, Creek Expressway & just 15 minutes from Tulsa Hills shopping. Enjoy hilltop views, mature trees, a neighborhood pond with a fountain and the option to bring your own builder for your dream home! 13405 Laney Road. $79,900

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GRAND LAKE

Lovely Bell Haven waterfront home in Longview Estates features 3,423 sq. ft. with 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, 2 studies (or a game room), and an open living space with a kitchen, double ovens, pantry, and wet bar. The main bedroom has a large shower and his-and-her closets, while the lower level offers a kitchenette and ample storage. Both levels have huge covered lanais with stunning Grand Lake views and surreal sunsets. Set on .94 acres with 253 feet of shoreline, the property includes a 900 sq. ft. workshop with a full bath. 34381 S 523 Lane, Jay, OK. $ 1,050,000

MIDTOWN

A renovated 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath home in the heart of Midtown Tulsa! New roof over house and garage, new gas range, new heat and air on first floor, new hot water heater. Close to Utica Square, St John Hospital, and private schools! 2,593 sq ft. 2120 E 24th St. $660,000

CROSBIE HEIGHTS

Perfect view of Arkansas River and Riverpark's East Trail. Build the home of your dreams overlooking Charles Page Blvd. You can also build a multi-family dwelling! Very close to the vibe of Downtown Tulsa. W 7th Street. $95,000

Table Talk

DINING FOOD DRINKS

BURGER BONANZA

In an unassuming shopping center near Owasso’s German Corner sits OMG Lounge, a beer joint known for its burgers. What started as a food truck several years ago is now a place where on any given lunch break — as evidenced by a recent Thursday — tables are full and to-go orders seem never ending.

The menu consists of 15 burgers, such as the Ranch Hole (ranch dressing, American cheese, bacon, lettuce and tomato) and the Belle (Parmesan garlic sauce, smoked Gouda, bacon, pickles and onion). Burgers can be ordered as a slider ($4-$10.50) or full size ($7-$13.50).

Fries and tots come in full- and half-orders with plenty to share. Order the Tater Salad and you’ll be greeted not with something green but instead by fries or tots topped with Tillamook cheddar, Tater Sauce (a white dipping sauce) and crumbled bacon. All sauces are made in house and are a good dipping accessory. OMG Lounge serves beer and a couple of wine options. It is a 21plus establishment. — ANNE BROCKMAN

11330 N. Garnett Road, Suite C, Owasso 918-504-7048 • okmobilegastro.com

From high stakes to beef steaks

Hard Rock’s revamped and rebranded steakhouse delivers with an elevated menu and superior service.

BY JUDY ALLEN

I’ve written about restaurants long enough to accept that this job has some perks. Checking out the newly remodeled and rebranded steakhouse on the top oor of Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Tulsa is at the top of the perks list. Carvers on 19, formerly known as McGill’s, rst opened in the casino in 2004 and moved up to the 19th oor of the newly constructed Hard Rock Tower in 2010.

“It was time to dig in and freshen it up and establish a brand of our own,” says Jason Darrow, director of food and beverage for Hard Rock Hotel and Casino. After a two-month renovation, the transformed space opened in May. e interior is a stunning nod to Tulsa’s art deco past, with oor-to-ceiling windows capturing views that go on for miles.

My husband, Tate, and I enjoyed an evening out in the new space a few months after it reopened. Executive Chef Dan Wade helped re-vamp an already popular menu while keeping tried-and-true favorites from the McGill’s days. “ e menu o ers a few favorites that have been around since day one, but the rest is all Dan,” Darrow says.

Shortly after we were seated, our server, Nicole, indulged us with an amuse-bouche (a treat from the chef) — a rich and creamy yet crisp potato croquette with tarragon ranch sauce. A basket of bread arrived next, including buttery rolls, sweet zucchini mufns, salt-sprinkled crackers and softened butter for spreading.

Starters include classic steakhouse dishes such as a chilled seafood tower, lump crab cakes or oysters on the half-shell — all of which are part of the seafood Chef Wade sources seasonally. We opted for the Firecracker Chicken — sort of an inside-out jalapeno popper — chicken breast wrapped with bacon around a roasted jalapeno pepper and served with spicy chipotle aioli.

e Steakhouse Chop salad was a reliable and easily shareable choice for the next course and featured all the savory ingredients a chop salad is known for — blue cheese, bacon and hard-boiled egg. Other salads include Caesar and a Salad Nineteen house salad, and all can be enhanced with grilled chicken, salmon or sauteed shrimp.

A scoop of lemon sorbet arrived between the salad and main course and was a tart way to cleanse our palates for the main event. Carvers is a steakhouse, so steaks are the star course. All of the steaks are of prime designation, Darrow says, but they also o er A5 wagyu. I chose an 18-ounce prime ribeye, which arrived solo on the plate but cooked a perfect medium rare. e steaks are served plain or with your choice of several sauce options. If you catch a glimpse of the wall display of steak knives as you enter the space, know that a certain number of individuals receive the honor of a personalized knife kept at the restaurant between visits.

Non-steak o erings include king salmon, red snapper, Kurobuta pork tenderloin and a smoked half chicken. We chose wagyu-stu ed mushrooms with soubise sauce, but we felt the entrée would be better as an appetizer.

e dessert menu includes three o erings: New York-style cheesecake, a chocolate tower and vanilla crème brûlée.

Overall, Carvers on 19 is a delicious destination to celebrate a special occasion or to grab a nice dinner before a show at the casino. And if you’re lucky enough to get Nicole as your server, the odds of an exceptional evening are in your favor. tp

Wonton wagyu tacos

A 32-ounce wagyu bone-in ribeye for two

Hard Rock Hotel and Casino’s steakhouse was recently remodeled and rebranded to Carvers on 19.

WHAT’S COOKING?

SPICE IS NICE

What would anksgiving be without pumpkin pie? ere are many bakeries in town where you can buy excellent scratch pies (Common Tart, Antoinette Baking Co., Queenies and Little J’s Bakeshoppe to name a few!). But if you want to make your own, we have a version that’s a classic with a slight twist. e lling of our tart is classic, but the crust is made of cinnamon graham crackers, and the whipped cream topping is spiced with cinnamon.

— NATALIE MIKLES

PUMPKIN TART WITH CINNAMON CRUST AND SPICED WHIPPED CREAM CRUST:

1 1/2 cups cinnamon graham cracker crumbs (about 12 crackers)

5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

1 tablespoon sugar

FILLING:

3/4 cup brown sugar

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin

1 1/4 cups heavy cream

2 eggs

CINNAMON CREAM:

1 cup chilled heavy cream

1/4 cup powdered sugar

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

To make crust: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a food processor, combine crackers, butter and sugar, pulsing until ne crumbs form. Press mixture into bottom and sides of a 9-inch tart pan. Bake 12 minutes or until rm and set.

To make lling: Whisk all ingredients in bowl, and pour into crust. Bake 45 minutes or until lling is just set. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

To make cream: In a large bowl with electric mixer on high speed, beat cream, powdered sugar and cinnamon until it holds sti peaks. tp

Editor’s note: Depending on the depth of your pan, you might have enough filling to make another pie. We used the extra filling to make individual pumpkin pie tarts.

LOAD UP

If you’re one of those people who loves nding the hidden gems of the food world, Tulsa’s suburbs are dotted with some great spots that might pull you o your beaten path.

Many of us tend to stay in our bubbles — hitting up the same restaurants, shops and grocery stores. But it can be fun to venture out, especially when it’s for something special. We recently found three spots new to us that are worth checking out!

— NATALIE MIKLES

FIRE ‘N THE HOLE

Kathy Miller opened Fire ‘N the Hole 13 years ago, but every day new customers nd their way to her hot sauce shop, 126 S. Main St., Owasso. It’s in part because the explosion of hot sauce lovers continues to bubble over. ese hot heads are looking for the newest, the most unique and the hottest hot sauces they can nd — all of which are available at Fire ‘N the Hole.

Some of the most popular items people come searching for are the hot sauces that have been featured on the series “Hot Ones.” Miller carries more than 40 of those.

Miller will help you nd what you need, from a heat level of .5 to a re-coming-outyour-ears 11.

BARBEE COOKIES

Kat Graham was blessed with good baking genes. Her grandfather, Francesco Divizia , owned Italian restaurants in Southern California, and her grandmothers and mother were exceptional home bakers. Her mom’s thumbprint cookies and snowball cookies were parts of the delight of her childhood. It was when Graham became a mom herself, making her own great cookies, that her baking business took o .

Graham’s cookies were so good that people began asking for them, so she took her passion and turned it into a business she called Barbee Cookies. She now has two locations — one at 8933 S. Memorial Drive and another at the new Tulsa Premium Outlets, 801 E. Outlet Drive in Jenks.

In the rst few weeks of the mall’s opening, Barbee Cookies was packed, and business continues to be steady with the holiday season approaching as customers

stop in for a cookie break or to order for holiday parties.

e most popular cookie at Barbee Cookies is the cinnamon roll cookie, which was created by her daughter, Hallee. Earlier this year the cookie was picked by MSN as the one to try in the state of Oklahoma.

CROSSROADS COOKERY

Crossroads Cookery, 117 E. Dewey Ave. in Sapulpa, is located on part of historic Route 66. And though the building dates back to Oklahoma’s statehood, the restaurant doesn’t feel stale. It’s a breath of fresh air for its combination of nostalgia in a modern restaurant. Some people stumble upon Crossroads Cookery through Sapulpa’s Route 66 Christmas Chute. While walking around and exploring the Christmas lights, you

can’t miss this charming restaurant with welcoming warm light, a large wooden soda fountain and comfy banquettes. Some people stop in to warm up with hot chocolate or dessert, but then make the trip back to Sapulpa for the great food.

Food here is a mix of classic Oklahoma dishes, like chicken-fried steak, pot roast and an Oklahoma smash burger, as well as new American food like grilled salmon, crispy Brussels sprouts drizzled with Sriracha aioli and a pan-seared chicken breast in a shallot and white wine cream sauce. Many dishes are certainly more than you would expect from a small-town restaurant.

With an ice cream bar, co ee bar and cocktail bar, there’s something for everyone here. e restaurant is open daily at 10:30 a.m. for lunch with varied dinner hours. Visit crossroadscookery.com for details. tp

Barbee Cookies

Fire ‘N the Hole

Crossroads Cookery

Bu alo Chicken Mac and Cheese

NEXT LEVEL There are plenty of macaroni and cheese dishes around town, but few stand out in flavor like this one. Curly pasta is tossed with a housemade cheese sauce, which is topped with chopped fried chicken tenders, blue cheese crumbles and scallions. A drizzle of buffalo sauce and ranch dressing seals the deal.

DID SOMEONE SAY BRUNCH? All-day brunch is a hit, as well as classic dishes like chicken-fried steak, burgers, a Monte Cristo sandwich and numerous taco options. The crowd-pleasing and Instagramworthy shakes make your childhood dreams a reality as they’re all themed to “The Goonies” and sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

VINTAGE VIBES MAD Eats has the feel of a vintage diner with a modern take on the classics. Open since 2019, the restaurant is on the south end of Owasso’s Main Street with several other dining and hospitality developments. — ANNE BROCKMAN

WHAT THE ALE

FAMILY AFFAIR

Opened four years ago by father-and-son team Larry and Alex Foster, The Nook Brewing Co.’s taproom at 909 S. 12th St. in Broken Arrow is a family friendly atmosphere.

“We did quite a bit of research prior to opening. We did a lot of research around Jenks, Bixby, Tulsa, you know, surrounding communities,” Larry says. “The Broken Arrow community … fi t the kind of style that we were shooting for.”

The Fosters credit a devoted and loyal customer base. “Our customers have been super supportive. They come in regularly. If we have any kind of problems, all we have to do is put out the word and we can get three or four or five customers in to help us with anything we might need, which is amazing,” Larry adds.

With a total of 12 taps, The Nook is always rotating the taproom offerings. During their December anniversary party they will bring out up to 10 small-batch beers and garner customer feedback. Some have made it to a full batch and have subsequently stayed on the menu. The Nook’s stouts have been a popular variety with a few winning some competitions. — TOM GILBERT

Alex and Larry Foster

Ways to Enjoy the Holidays

Get Your Jingle On!

Savor the Season

Cherish Friends

Creek County crossroads

In 1886 as the Atlantic and Paci c Railroad were advancing westward in their goal to create an intercontinental railroad, Chief James Sapulpa, a Muscogee Creek who operated a trading post in Indian Territory, befriended railway workers. In his honor they named the train station “Sapulpa Station.”

On March 31, 1898, the town of Sapulpa was o cially incorporated, just over two months after Tulsa was incorporated. By 1905, the Glenn Pool oil eld was discovered just south of town, which ushered in an era of exponential growth in the city and beyond.

Like many towns, Sapulpa was initially developed along Main Street, but soon large and more elaborate buildings were being constructed adjacent to Main on Dewey Avenue. A majority of these developments occurred within the rst two decades of the 1900s.

When Route 66 opened in 1926, Sapulpa got lucky by becoming one of the popular cities to stop in along the famous road. Where Main Street and Dewey Avenue met would become known as the “Crossroads of America” due to the connection of Route 66 and Highway 75.

In downtown Sapulpa along Dewey, you

could watch movies at the State eater, shop at Kress 5-10-25 Cent Store, eat at the Liberty Cafe, purchase shoes at Newberry or pick up a prescription at the drug store. Today these businesses have moved on, but the buildings they occupied remain.

In 1982 director Francis Ford Coppola used buildings, streets and alleys along Dewey Avenue for his 1983 lm “Rumble Fish.” In more recent years, development and activity along Dewey has increased. Today historic Route 66 brings travelers from all over the world to experience Sapulpa, Oklahoma. tp

STORY AND COMPOSITE IMAGE BY PATRICK MCNICHOLAS

Downtown Sapulpa looking west on East Dewey Avenue toward the “Crossroads of America,” where Route 66 and Highway 75 connect. Stores like Kress, Newberry’s shoe store, State Theater and Liberty Cafe are seen in the image. Most of these buildings remain in downtown Sapulpa.

DECEMBER 5 - 7

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