Tulsa World Magazine Summer 2022 by Tulsa World

TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE

TULSA W O R L D

M A G A Z I N E

| ISSUE 37 | SUMMER 2022

Ranches & rodeos

Pop culture puts Western life in the spotlight

TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

ISSUE 37 SUMMER 2022

INSIDE: RISING COUNTRY STARS, TULSA’S 138TH FIGHTER WING AND NEW NATIVE FILMS AND MUSIC CASINO GUIDE: FIND GAMING ACTION, CONCERTS AND MORE AT TULSA’S AREA CASINOS

CHEROKEE NATIONAL HISTORY MUSEUM, TAHLEQUAH, OK

A NATION OF RESOLVE

Experience the Cherokee story, through centuries of ingenuity, determination and sovereignty, in insightful and moving exhibits beside timeless works of art. Admission is free for all ages. One Nation. Ten Attractions. Endless Adventure.

*Named 2020 Tribal Destination of the Year by the American Indian and Alaska Native Tourism Association

TULSA W O R L D

M A G A Z I N E

Summer 2022

RANCHES & RODEOS

Tulsa Vipers: Meet the 138th Fighter Wing of the Oklahoma Air National Guard

GO COUNTRY

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Tulsa Trailblazers: The ranch where Tulsa was born

Topping the charts: Oklahoma country musicians to watch

Get ready to ride: Oklahoma summers mean barrel racing, bull riding and rodeos

Cowboy life: Shop, eat, dance and ride like a cowboy

Centennial Ranch: A glimpse of daily life at the 104-year old McFarlin Ingersoll Ranch

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At Home: Redecorate your home like a ranch

“I do, y’all”: Westernthemed weddings are in vogue

ALSO INSIDE

Life in Native America: New Native American film and music projects

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Up Close: Tulsa architecture quiz

Well-seasoned skillets: Recipes for cast iron cooking

Road trip: Oklahoma museums feature American West, Native heritages

Let’s Go: Upcoming summer events, festivals and more

Casino guide: Thrilling gaming action at Tulsa’s area casinos Cover photo by Mike Simons of Audrey Sauter Cover design by Tim Chamberlin

Tulsa World Magazine 3

FROMTHE

EDITOR.

TULSA W O R L D

M A G A Z I N E

Tulsa World Magazine is a specialty

Get inspired to experience the cowboy lifestyle

Nicole Marshall Middleton Tulsa World Magazine Editor

“Y

ellowstone,” the Paramount series about a Montana ranch owner (played by Kevin Costner) and his family, is the most-watched show on cable in the U.S. And as cultural phenomena typically go in the entertainment world, the dialogue and storyline aren’t the only reasons for its massive success. The appeal lies in the wardrobe, the scenery, the music, the lifestyle — minus the murder. Make no mistake, cowboy life is trending. Weddings and venues are incorporating Western themes. Furniture stores are popping up, offering an array of ranch decor. Local dude ranches are booked years out. Country music has several Oklahoma artists who are on fire, searing our souls with their touching tunes. Like Zach Bryan of Oologah — his debut album from Warner Records, “American Heartbreak,” smashed the 2022 record for most streams by a country album in one day on Spotify and Apple Music when it was released May 20. Bryan has surpassed 1 billion global streams. However, in most of Oklahoma, the cowboy lifestyle never really fades. But some of us big-city folks tend to miss it when we aren’t looking. Then comes the release of a record-setting TV show or Western-themed movie, and we are all right back on the bandwagon. Boots and all. Urban Cowboy style. So in our summer edition, we wanted to pay homage to our true Western heritage with a focus on these trends as well as on local ranch life and rodeo sports. We also have a section with tips on where to shop, eat, dance and ride like a cowboy. On another topic, we also have a profile on the 138th Fighter Wing of the Oklahoma Air National Guard, where the “Tulsa Vipers” put F-16s through their paces. And with all the new shows and movies being filmed in Oklahoma, many have Native American themes and casts. We’ve got a story with updates on their release dates. It’s the middle of summer, still rodeo season. If you’ve never been to an event, find one and check it out. We hope this edition inspires you to experience the cowboy life that is all around you in Oklahoma instead of just on TV.

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publication of the Tulsa World, 315 S. Boulder Ave., Tulsa, OK 74103. This magazine is published with the June 26, 2022, edition of the World. All content copyright Tulsa World 2022. The contents may not be reproduced without permission.

NICOLE MARSHALL MIDDLETON Editor nicole.marshall@tulsaworld.com STACEY DICKENS Assistant Editor stacey.dickens@tulsaworld.com TOM GILBERT Photo Editor JOHN WALBLAY Page Editor

Additional copies of Tulsa World Magazine can be found at the Tulsa World or at local retailers. Annual magazine subscriptions are $19.80 for four issues. To subscribe or have single issues mailed for $4.95, go to tulsaworldmagazine.com or call 918-581-0921.

ADVERTISE IN TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE To advertise, call 918-581-8509 or email Libby First at libby.first@tulsaworld.com

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RISING

STARS Zach Bryan, shown during an April performance at the Calf Fry in Stillwater, had his first Warner Records album released in May. MIKE SIMONS, TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE

Oklahoma’s Zach Bryan, Kaitlin Butts, Corey Kent heat up country music charts TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

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MIKE SIMONS PHOTOS, TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE

Music fans react to Zach Bryan’s performance at the 2022 Calf Fry music festival in Stillwater.

Jimmie Tramel Tulsa World Magazine‌

atch a rising star? Tulsa World Magazine has selected three rising Oklahoma country artists you will want to keep an eye on as their music careers surge forward. Let’s meet them.

ZACH BRYAN‌

“Here’s your sign” is the signature catchphrase of comedian Bill Engvall. Here’s your sign singer-songwriter Zach Bryan was about to “blow up” in the music world: He sold out two Cain’s Ballroom shows in a blink, and he was still half a year away from his major-label record debut. He also sold out Nashville’s historic Ryman Auditorium in less than an hour based on word-of-mouth buzz and the strength of his material and live performances. Bryan served in the U.S. Navy before capturing the ears and hearts of music fans. His much-anticipated “American Heartbreak” album was released May 6 Tulsa World Magazine

Tumbleweed Dance Hall in Stillwater hosted Zach Bryan during Calf Fry 2022. Bryan is an Oologah native and U.S. Navy veteran with a raspy sound and raw lyrics.

20 via Warner Records, and he will be among headliners when he returns to the Born & Raised Music Festival Sept. 16 in Pryor, only a short drive away

from his hometown of Oologah. Bryan is proud of his small-town roots, and his music is fueled by a desire to stay true to himself, according TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

COURTESY, MACKENZIE RYAN‌

“What Else Can She Do” is Kaitlin Butts’ second full-length studio album.

I hope this album makes you feel seen and comforts you in times of darkness. Know you are never alone and it won’t always be this way.” COURTESY, MACKENZIE RYAN‌

Kaitlin Butts released a critically acclaimed album this year.

to a Warner Records-provided bio. “His success is found in his raspy voice, a mix of classic folk melody and outlaw country with a raw edge that cuts to the bone,” said the bio, which cited a breakthrough moment in his career. “In the video for ‘Heading South,’ shot by phone outside of his Navy barracks in humid 95-degree heat, Bryan’s passion echoes off the strings of his trusted Guild. Drenched in sweat and belting words that he had written minutes earlier, the moment is authentic, brutal and real. Millions of fans have now seen that video without any sort of industry assist and millions more have connected to the tender, sincere songs found on both Bryan’s 2019 debut album ‘DeAnn’ — dedicated to his late mother — and his 2020 follow-up, ‘Elisabeth,’ an ode to those he loves.” Bryan has accumulated more than 1 billion combined global streams, with 4 million monthly Spotify listeners. To read more about him, go to zachbryan.com. TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

KAITLIN BUTTS‌

A Union High School alum, Butts released an album (“What Else Can She Do”) in April that earned her recognition from Rolling Stone and other sources of music news. On the same day the album was released, Rolling Stone said this about the title track: “Kaitlin Butts’ newly released ‘What Else Can She Do’ makes a strong case that she ought to be positioned somewhere between Miranda Lambert or Kacey Musgraves at country’s vanguard — an Oklahoma native with a big, malleable voice and the songwriting skills to match.” Billboard said Butts’ new album “highlights her voice at its most powerful and chilling.” Momentum began building before the album’s release when Butts was one of seven artists spotlighted in a US Cellular “Locally Grown, Locally Live” nationwide campaign. “What Else Can She Do” is Butts’ second full-length studio album and her first since 2015’s “Same Hell, Different Devil.”

- KAITLIN BUTTS‌

The new album’s tracks tell the stories of women — those who are lost, struggling, angry and scared, but who remain resilient through it all. “I don’t think that life is all that pretty sometimes, and it comes with pain and pushing through hard times, being stagnant, going through the motions, not knowing what to do or just being flat out angry with whatever life has put on your plate,” Butts said in a news release about the album. “I see myself in all of these women in these stories. I see these women in my friends and family all around me going through divorce, abuse, infidelity, financial instability, addiction, generational trauma, family issues and life-altering tough times, but somehow are still resilient and come out on the other side okay. I hope this album makes you feel seen and comforts you in times of darkness. Know you are never alone and it won’t always be this way.” For more information and for upcoming tour dates, go to kaitlinbutts.com. Tulsa World Magazine 7

COREY KENT‌

TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE FILE PHOTOS‌

Bixby native Corey Kent was a contestant on “The Voice.”

You knew him as Corey Kent White when he was coached by Blake Shelton on “The Voice.” Now you can call him Corey Kent, music artist with a No. 1 song. Kent’s “Wild as Her” went to the top spot on Apple Music’s Country Streaming chart earlier this year. It’s from his album “‘21,” which was released in December 2021 Corey Kent performs at Cain’s Ballroom in 2016. and debuted at No. 4 on the U.S. Spotify chart. Kent told social media followers in April that he had his Festival in Pryor. He posted this on best year of touring last year by social media after the performance self-booking, and he announced that roster was announced: “Only thing he is partnering with Nate Towne cooler than playing a festival called and Hayley Riddle at William Morris Born & Raised Music Festival less Endeavor to take it to the next level. than a hour away from where you They are working in collaboration were born and raised, is moving from with his Triple 8 Management team. the spotlight stage last year to one of Want to see for yourself what Corey the main stages this year.” Kent is all about? He’s performing To read more about him, go to Sept. 18 at the Born & Raised Music coreykentofficial.com.

2022 WOODCARVING AND ARTS FESTIVAL In the BROKEN ARROW ROSE DISTRICT Aug. 12-13, 9am-5pm Central Park Community Center, 1500 S. Main

Sponsored by the Eastern Oklahoma Woodcarvers Association

Invited arts Include: Woodcarving, Wood Turning, Gourds, Mosaics, Weaving, Stained Glass, Jewelry, Blacksmithing, Quilting, Ceramics, Beading, Leather Working, Basketmaking, Painting, and more! For more information go to website www.eowa.us/newsevents or contact Bob Block, 918-693-2418 robert-block@ouhsc.edu Bill Payne, 918-251-8734, wudcrvr@cox.net

FREE ADMISSION! 8 Tulsa World Magazine

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LIFE IN NATIVE AMERICA

JORDAN STRAUSS/INVISION VIA AP

Devery Jacobs (left), Garrett Basch, Taika Waititi, Sterlin Harjo, Paulina Alexis, D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai, Sarah Podemski and Zahn McClarnon accept the award for best new scripted series for “Reservation Dogs,” presented to them by Rhea Seehorn and Bob Odenkirk, at the 37th Film Independent Spirit Awards.

Native-focused arts projects to watch for New ‘Reservation Dogs’ season, ‘Flower Moon’ on the way Jimmie Tramel // Tulsa World Magazine

klahoma has become a hotbed for filming movies and TV shows, and many recently have Native American casts and themes. There are also many efforts underway here to increase Native American representation in the entertainment arts. Here are some of those film and music projects to watch for in the coming months:

TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

SEASON TWO OF ‘RESERVATION DOGS’ ARRIVING IN AUGUST Season two of the shot-in-Oklahoma series “Reservation Dogs” will premiere Aug. 3 on FX on Hulu. “Reservation Dogs,” co-created by Tulsa filmmaker Sterlin Harjo, is a critically acclaimed and groundbreaking series that features an all-Indigenous cast and creative squad.

Season one’s eight episodes followed four Indigenous youths as they plotted to escape the modern-day reservation and travel to California following the death of a friend. Season one was shot primarily in Okmulgee. Devery Jacobs, who plays Elora Danan in “Reservation Dogs,” will be in the cast of Marvel’s upcoming “Echo” series, a spin-off from 2021’s “Hawkeye” series. Tulsa World Magazine 9

COURTESY, RYAN REDCORN, FX‌

Devery Jacobs, who plays Elora Danan in “Reservation Dogs,” will be in the cast of Marvel’s upcoming “Echo” series, a spin-off from 2021’s “Hawkeye” series.

STERLIN HARJO SUPPORTING INDIGENOUS CREATORS‌ Eight finalists for The Indigenous List were announced in May by IllumiNative, The Black List and the Sundance Institute. The Indigenous screenwriters represent the best and most promising Native creatives in the film and television industry, and they will have an opportunity to meet Indigenous creators, including Tulsa’s Sterlin Harjo, who have first-look and/or development deals at major studies. Harjo is the showrunner and cocreator of the shot-in-Oklahoma series “Reservation Dogs,” which debuted last year on FX on Hulu. The Indigenous List was launched in 2020 to provide a platform for Indigenous writers to showcase their scripts, create additional pathways and opportunities within the industry and to support the development of the next generation of screenwriters. Among finalists is Kathryn Machi, who is Cherokee.

COURTESY, SHANE BROWN, FX‌

Wes Studi, who received an Academy Award for career achievement, popped up as a guest star in season one of the shot-inOklahoma series “Reservation Dogs” and was photographed on set early on during filming of Season 2.

‘KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON’ ON WAY‌ “Killers of the Flower Moon,” a shot-in-Oklahoma Martin Scorsese film adaptation of David Grann’s bestselling book, is expected to arrive in theaters late this year. Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Niro are among stars of “Killers of the Flower Moon.” Shooting took place in Pawhuska and other Oklahoma locations in 2021. The “Killers of the Flower Moon” crew returned to Oklahoma to shoot additional footage in May. 10 Tulsa World Magazine

CHEROKEE LANGUAGE ALBUM RELEASE SET FOR LABOR DAY‌ TOM GILBERT, TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE‌

Sterlin Harjo co-created “Reservation Dogs,” a critically acclaimed and groundbreaking series.

“Killers of the Flower Moon” tells the story of the serial murders that were part of the Osage “Reign of Terror.”

Horton Records partnered with Cherokee filmmaker and creator Jeremy Charles for a compilation album of original songs performed in the Cherokee language. The album features 12 Cherokee artists performing material from myriad genres, including folk/Americana, TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE FILE‌

Cherokee filmmaker and creator Jeremy Charles introduces the native speakers who were heavily involved in the production of “Anvdvnelisgi,” a groundbreaking album of contemporary music performed in the Cherokee language.

MIKE SIMONS, TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE FILE‌

“Killers of the Flower Moon,” a shot-inOklahoma Martin Scorsese film adaptation of David Grann’s bestselling book, is expected to arrive in theaters late this year.

country, pop, heavy metal, hip hop and even reggae. The album is expected to be released in time for the 2022 Cherokee National Holiday over Labor Day weekend. Ideally, the forthcoming album will be a gateway to the Cherokee language for young music consumers and listeners of all ages. Fewer than 2,000 fluent speakers of the Cherokee language remain. The album will be titled “ᎠᏅᏛᏁᎵᏍᎩ” (“Anvdvnelisgi,” pronounced Ah Nuh Duh Nay Lees Gi) and translates to “Performers” in English. “A lot of people are going to hear the Cherokee language in a new context for the first time,” Jeremy Charles said at a press conference announcing the album. “I hope ‘ᎠᏅᏛᏁᎵᏍᎩ’ will spark an inspiration for Cherokee citizens and artists alike. I imagine people singing along as they blast the album in the car, reading along with the lyrics with their headphones on, and it reinforces that being Cherokee is special, and it’s cool. And I hope projects like TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

this will contribute to the Cherokee Nation’s expansive efforts to preserve the language into the future.” Funding for the album was provided by the Zarrow Families Foundation Commemoration Fund.

CHEROKEE NATION FILM OFFICE BRINGING MORE NATIVES TO TELEVISION‌ The Cherokee Nation Film Office recently partnered with Green Pastures Studio and SeriesFest to present the Season 8 Storytellers Initiative, specifically aimed at increasing Native representation within the television industry. The annual competition offers writers the opportunity to submit a pilot script, participate in a writing workshop with industry experts and a live read with professional actors, as well as secure a yearlong development deal with the winning script. In an ongoing effort to address the need for more Natives on and off screen, this year’s winning submission must include a Native American screenwriter or actor. “Since the beginning of television, film and traditional media, Native Americans have been grossly underrepresented and currently comprise less than 1% of these industries,” said Jennifer Loren, director of the Cherokee Nation Film Office and Original Content. “The Cherokee Nation and our incredible partners, such as

COURTESY, CHEROKEE NATION FILM OFFICE‌

Jennifer Loren, director of Cherokee Nation Film Office and Original Content; Sierra Teller Ornelas, “Rutherford Falls” showrunner; and actor Kaniehtiio Horn speak with audience members during “Changing the Narrative: Focus on Indigenous Representation in Television” at SeriesFest on May 7 in Denver.

those who joined us at SeriesFest, are doing our part to create more opportunities for proper representation and accurate portrayals of Natives in television and film.” The winning artist(s) will have the opportunity for an exclusive development deal and commitment from Green Pastures Studios to finance and produce the pilot episode in Oklahoma. Key entry dates and fees: Early bird $40, Jul 15; regular $45, Aug. 19; late $65, Sep 16. Tulsa World Magazine 11

Up close Do you think you know Tulsa?

ur city is known for its art deco architecture and iconic public art. To test your skills recognizing Tulsa’s best known buildings and places, our photographers zoomed in for a closer look. • How many do you know? Answers on page 83.

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Find the answers on page 83

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Sky cowboys ‘It’s a huge rush’: A look inside Tulsa’s 138th Fighter Wing

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Pilots with the Oklahoma Air National Guard 138th Fighter Wing are called the “Tulsa Vipers.” MIKE SIMONS, TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE

TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

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Michael Dekker Tulsa World Magazine‌

he steady, powerful whine of the Pratt & Whitney F100-PW-229 jet engines has a decibel level that requires earplugs. From roughly 50 yards away, the sound is like a million teapots with boiling water steaming, right before they whistle — Shhhhhhhhhh ... The planes are lined up, side by side, engines flowing, outside indicator lights flashing, flaps moving up and down, and mirror-like targeting system appendages rotating, then stopping, underneath the pilot canopies. Systems are checked and rechecked for several adrenaline-pumping minutes. Then the planes move forward and turn, one by one, and roll down the taxiway. The whine gradually subsides as the jets move to the edge of the runway and out of hearing range. Then comes the thunderous, streaking, high-pitched roar — a sound that trails each jet as it takes off with more than 29,000 pounds of thrust — pushing the pilot into the seat with five to six times normal gravity into a nearvertical climb at a dizzying speed. Welcome to the 138th Fighter Wing of the Oklahoma Air National Guard, where the “Tulsa Vipers” put F-16s through their paces. “It’s a huge rush, every time you go out flying,” said Capt. Mike Hondo, 26, one of about 40 pilots in the unit, based on the north side of Tulsa International Airport. “It’s definitely the best office view you can have.” The 138th flies and maintains 21 of the General Dynamics/Lockheed Martin F-16 “Fighting Falcons.” The plane is a multi-role, single-engine aircraft that can fly at more than twice the speed of sound and is designed for both air-toair and air-to-ground combat. About twice a week, pilots train in various simulated combat situations, usually at sites near Salina, Kansas, and Fort Smith, Arkansas. The setup could involve two aircraft versus one, four versus two, or other situations involving both “enemy” fighters and simulated ground targets. Pilots usually have at least a day after being briefed on a particular scenario

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MIKE SIMONS PHOTOS, TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE‌

It’s a huge rush, every time you go out flying. It’s definitely the best office view you can have.” - CAPT. MIKE HONDO

in which they will be participating. Some are designated the “red,” or “bad guys,” while others are designated the “good guys,” they said. The flight exercises themselves may last as little as 20 minutes to more than two hours, depending on specifics and whether air refueling tankers are involved, pilots said. But they also involve several hours of preparation before the exercise and several hours of debriefing after — in which the exercise is analyzed based on computer-generated flight and other data — and pilots can learn what they did well and where they could improve. “The coordination gets everybody on the same page. ... Then you go out there and execute it, and then you come back and just talk about, ‘Hey,

what could we have done better?’” Hondo said. Despite its age — the F-16 was first flown in 1974 — the airplane has undergone many significant upgrades in radar, weapons targeting, communications and other systems that continue to make it a very capable aircraft, pilots said. “The coolest thing is it just being a multi-role fighter jet, in my opinion,” said Lt. Burt Reynolds, 27, of Owasso, another 138th pilot. “So we can do any mission that the Air Force has to offer, whether that’s air to air, air to ground, and it keeps things fresh,” Hondo said. “We use a building block approach — like a crawl-walk-run kind of format. So we’ll do like basic skills first, and then we’ll get more and more complex to lead to some pretty big scenarios, and so it’s pretty cool in that regard,” Hondo said. Hondo, originally from northern Illinois, said that about a year ago, he was involved in a training exercise in which F-16s went up against the Lockheed Martin F-22 “Raptor,” considered by many to be the best fighter aircraft ever built. TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

LEFT: First Lt. David Hamilton gets suited up in the locker room to take off at the Oklahoma Air National Guard 138th Fighter Wing. BELOW: Pilots walk to their planes. BOTTOM: Maj. Richie Schuler Jr. prepares to take off in an F-16.

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But he said the F-16 held its own. “You have to know what their capabilities are and what your capabilities are and use your capabilities to your advantage,” he said. “Honestly, a lot of the fights ended neutral. Some of our guys were killing the Raptors; some of the Raptors were killing us, but most of them (simulated dogfights) were ending up neutral.” Hondo and Reynolds acknowledged aircraft capability is also extended to pilots — as much as possible — for advanced Russian and Chinese fighters, should conflict with those aircraft ever become a possibility. Last year, U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe, 18 Tulsa World Magazine

R-Okla., the senior Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee, tried unsuccessfully to have the 138th’s F-16s replaced by the newer Lockheed Martin F-35 “Lightning II” aircraft. Instead, the National Defense Authorization Act included provisions for continued upgrades to the 138th’s F-16s, which an Inhofe staffer described as the best and most advanced in the military. “I have been glad to work with my colleagues in the Senate and the folks at the 138th wing in Tulsa throughout the years to ensure they are wellequipped to complete their missions and do their jobs well — and they now have some of the best aircraft avail-

able,” Inhofe said in a statement to the Tulsa World in a request for this story. “Tulsa is my home, and I am continually proud of the Oklahoma National Guard’s progress and achievements to ensure Oklahoma and the nation are safe,” Inhofe said. “Guaranteeing the Oklahoma National Guard is well taken care of always has and will continue to be a priority for me.” Most of the 138th’s F-16s were built in 1989, with some built in 1988 and 1990, said Staff Sgt. Ceira Howze, 24, who schedules regular maintenance for the aircraft. “They’ve had tons of upgrades, and we’re actually getting more upgrades TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

ABOVE LEFT: Staff Sgt. Ceira Howze schedules regular maintenance for the aircraft. ABOVE RIGHT: Staff Sgt. Joseph Bridgers is a maintenance crew chief at the Oklahoma Air National Guard 138th Fighter Wing. TOP: Capt. Michael Madaffri prepares to take off in an F-16. LEFT: Pilots line up to take off.

as we speak, because we are extending the life of these jets,” she said. “They’re doing these modifications so we can keep these aircraft flying and use them longer.” Maintenance crew members speculated that depending on what repairs are needed, the jets could require up to 30 hours of maintenance for every hour of flight time, but sometimes much less. Much of the maintenance is done at the base, but specialists are sometimes called in to assist, given the complexity of the aircraft and a multitude of systems on board, including hydraulics, computer-aided displays, radar and other avionics, and even explosives TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

contained in the ejection seats. Staff Sgt. Joseph Bridgers, 25, a maintenance crew chief, said one of the trickiest systems is hydraulics on the plane. “It’s not so much that it’s challenging, it’s just complex,” he said. “The hydraulic system, subsystem and components control most everything on the aircraft — landing gear, flight controls, you name it. When one thing’s wrong, you have to chase it, and sometimes they’re tough to troubleshoot. They’re messy. You can get hydraulic fluid all over the place. It’s just a system that can either be a real easy fix or it can be a headache,” he said. In addition to maintaining the

aircraft, maintenance crews also play a key role in making sure systems on the plane are working properly before a pilot takes off. Many who are not officers have the authority to ground planes that they deem to have a potential problem. “When it comes to them trusting us, they normally listen pretty easily,” Bridgers said of pilots. “It’s nice to know how much trust it is. You’re the last person they lock eyes with — you shake hands with — before they get into that airplane. They’re putting their full trust in you, making sure you’ve got your job done right.” Reynolds and Hondo also lauded Tulsa World Magazine 19

MIKE SIMONS PHOTOS, TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE‌

The Oklahoma Air National Guard 138th Fighter Wing has participated in many combat missions, including in Iraq and Afghanistan.

maintenance personnel on the base, saying they trust their assessments of potential problems. “They can see things we can’t,” Reynolds said. “If there’s something that could go wrong, we really rely on them. ... It’s a $40 million dollar aircraft. ... If we didn’t have them, we wouldn’t be able to fly.” With the release of the movie “Top Gun: Maverick,” pilots Hondo and Reynolds said they were looking forward to seeing the film. They both said the original “Top Gun” had its flaws — the main being the bitter rivalries portrayed among the pilots. “One thing they did about it (the original) right was the culture,” Reynolds said. “How fighter pilots are always striving to get better and better and better.” Established in 1957, the 138th has more than 1,000 personnel, including about 300 who work on the base full-time. The mission of the unit is to defend the southern U.S. from New Orleans to Tucson, Arizona, “at a moment’s 20 Tulsa World Magazine

Capt. Michael Madaffri prepares to take off.

notice,” it states in a welcome package for visitors. The 138th has participated in many combat missions, including in Iraq

and Afghanistan. “It’s a dream to both serve the community and the country,” Reynolds said. TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

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Living legacy Modern-day Rogers County cattle ranch evolves, keeps history intact TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

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Story by Andrea Eger, Photos by Mike Simons Tulsa World Magazine‌

Modern-day cattle ranching isn’t exactly how it’s portrayed by the fictional, sixth-generation Dutton family on the hit TV show “Yellowstone,” but it’s the only way of life Joleta Ingersoll and her two teenage sons have ever known. It’s also the one they choose to fight for and work at every day. “There’s a lot of family history in it, and there’s a lot to live up to. Me and my brother talk about it quite a bit,” said Ingersoll’s son Walt Spurlock, 19. Ingersoll’s great-great-grandfather Robert McFarlin settled the land now known as the McFarlin Ingersoll Ranch in 1918 after amassing a fortune by drilling in the Glenn Pool and Cushing oil fields. The oilman went on to become a noted philanthropist, best remembered for building the library at the University of Tulsa, a church in Norman and an auditorium at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, all of which still bear the family name. His 11,500-acre cattle ranch is the 2022 winner of the Oklahoma Centennial Ranch Award, bestowed annually by the Oklahoma Historical Society and the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry. The historic preservation honor is for a property of at least 40 acres with gross annual sales of at least $1,000 and controlled by members of the same family for 100 years or more. But the sixth-generation homesteaders with 1,200 head of cattle that call it home say no statewide award or grand family name has ever shined as bright a spotlight on their way of life like the pop culture phenomenon that is the American drama television series “Yel24 Tulsa World Magazine

The lifestyle and the history and the legacy — there’s a lot of similarities to it, there is. But they really portrayed it really different than it is nowadays, the way I see it — they have a little older style.” - WALT SPURLOCK COURTESY, “OKLAHOMA AND THE MID-CONTINENT OIL FIELD”‌

Robert McFarlin settled the land now known as the McFarlin Ingersoll Ranch in 1918.

RIGHT: Jim Riddle (left), Jared Stevens and Chico Spurlock inoculate a bull calf at the McFarlin Ingersoll Ranch. TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

lowstone,” created by Taylor Sheridan. “The lifestyle and the history and the legacy — there’s a lot of similarities to it, there is. But they really portrayed it really different than it is nowadays, the way I see it — they have a little older style,” said Walt Spurlock. “Around here in Inola, there’s a lot more country people than city people, so they know more than kids from Tulsa. But people always ask me questions about it, and I’ve seen more people interested in cattle ranching because of that show.”

SAME AS IT EVER WAS

Sunup was an hour ago, but you can barely tell on this early morning in late April with the gentle rolling hills north of Inola cloaked in fog and a heavy mist. A single rooster crowed as 10 or 11 cowboys and a lone cowgirl zipped into chaps and sipped their first Dr Peppers of the day from ice cold cans. It’s Day 4 of what will likely take six or seven — a task that, to the eye, appears largely unchanged in modern times: working cattle. Momma cows and their calves must be herded into large corrals, all over the ranch, and then separated into two groups. Upon their arrival, the cows are hosed down with insecticides to help keep fleas and ticks at bay. “It cuts into our bottom line — they don’t produce as well if they’re getting bit, and some pests can transmit disease,” Ingersoll explained. Next, the cattle are coaxed, pushed and prodded, one by one, into a single chute, where each and every one was vaccinated and then had that documented by having their ear notched. For the young bull calves, castration was also on the morning’s to-do list. That means a pit stop in the big metal squeeze chute towed in by pickup truck, so the cowboys can immobilize the little guys and easily flip them onto one side for the procedure. Some took it easier than the others, which bucked and strained against the squeeze chute’s bars. “You can give them lidocaine, but then you have to wait for it to kick in — so we don’t,” Ingersoll said, watching as the calves alternate between limping out kind of dazed or sprinting like a bullet shot back into the freedom of the pasture. “Besides, it doesn’t hurt ‘em too bad. Chico’s knife is really sharp.” TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

Tulsa World Magazine 25

Jim Montgomery works cattle at the McFarlin Ingersoll Ranch, a sixth-generation homestead with 1,200 head of cattle.

A COMMUNITY EFFORT

Chico Spurlock, great-uncle to Ingersoll’s sons, is in his 27th year as the ranch’s full-time foreman. Before that, he had a day job for two decades working maintenance for the City of Inola, but he has never really been away from ranching because it requires collective effort. “We’ve done it all our lives, helping people,” said Chico, whose brother Kurt Spurlock was one of the many neighbor cowboys “helping” out that day at the McFarlin Ingersoll Ranch. “It’s hard to explain how close this ranching community is,” Ingersoll said. “We’ve only got one other full-time employee besides Chico. Everyone else is just helping out — and we help them.” She pointed to each worker, rattling off not just names, but the relationships of those helping work cattle to her and her family. “This guy was just in the hospital with heart stuff. His dad was coming out here until he was 90,” Ingersoll said, of a big, hulking man in a blue shirt, before 26 Tulsa World Magazine

Chico Spurlock is in his 27th year as the ranch’s full-time foreman.

laughing. “His name’s Dwayne (Stout), but I almost forget because we call him Damn It — that’s what his father said to him so often, it became his nickname!”

The lone cowgirl pitching in was Trista Stevens, wife of full-time ranch hand Jared Stevens. And then there was a white-haired cowboy who had TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

Oklahoma Centennial Farm & Ranch Program

Full-time ranch hand Jared Stevens and his wife, Trista, breed dogs as a side job.

dismounted from his horse to help urge the cattle along in their slow march into and through the chute from ground level. “Wade is probably 80 — he should not be back where he is,” Ingersoll said, shaking her head. Wade Hibbler is indeed 80, and he said he’ll only quit being a cowboy when he can’t get on a horse anymore. “I about can’t walk, but I can still ride — if they can help me up on my horse,” Hibbler said, laughing. “I learned as a kid, growing up in Ava, Missouri. We always help our neighbors. “Besides that, I’ve always got plenty of T-bone, hamburger and brisket over at the house.” TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

EVOLUTION IS INEVITABLE

There is really only one relatively new aspect in the process of working cattle on this ranch. The feed trucks used to lure the livestock are equipped with a blaring siren, to ensure every beast on the pasture is rounded up. They replaced the use of horns because they’re louder, but ironically, the vast majority of cattle require no special sound effects. “They know the sound of this truck,” explained Chico Spurlock, tapping a knuckle on a feed truck loaded down with a round bale of hay. “They can hear that diesel over there and nothing. But this truck’s engine? They know

In 1989, the Oklahoma Historical Society and the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture established the Oklahoma Centennial Farm & Ranch Program to recognize those families who have continuously occupied their land and carried out farming or ranching operations for at least 100 years, like the McFarlin Ingersoll ranch. Gov. Henry Bellmon received the first application from H.C. Hitch Jr., owner of the Hitch Ranch in Texas County. More than 1,600 families have since received recognition through the program. Historic structures awards are given if four or more buildings or structures more than 50 years old remain on the land. This award helps identify historic buildings, structures, sites, districts and objects associated with Oklahoma’s farming and ranching industries and has led to the listing of farms and ranches in the National Register of Historic Places. To qualify for the program, a family must: • have occupied their land for at least 100 years • be a working farm or ranch of at least 40 acres • generate at least $1,000 in annual sales • be operated by, lived on by or leased out by a family member

Tulsa World Magazine 27

it’s the feed truck.” It’s no coincidence that railroad tracks run through the McFarlin Ingersoll ranch. Ingersoll, who was born in 1969, is old enough to remember when feed was delivered by rail and stored in little feed houses that dotted the pastures. Today, you’re more likely to hear the revving engines of ATV 4-wheelers on any cattle ranch than a train whistle blowing, albeit not for working cattle on the rough terrain and hills at McFarlin Ingersoll. “Unlike on ‘Yellowstone,’ we don’t 28 Tulsa World Magazine

ride to check fences,” said Walt Spurlock. “There’s a lot of similarities to it, there is, but they really portrayed a lot of the work really different than it is nowadays, the way I see it. They have a little older style. “They’re on their horses all the time, but we’re trying to get stuff done as quickly as possible.”

ECONOMIC FACTORS

Modern-day cattle ranchers aren’t just concerned with modern-day efficiencies.

The price of so many critical items — from new trucks, which are typically replaced at 50,000 miles on the odometer because of the off-road beating they take, plus fuel and every kind of cattle feed transported by diesel trucks — has forced all those in the industry into a kind of figurative squeeze chute right now. “There are days where you think we should get rid of the cattle,” said Ingersoll. “But then you remember the cattle pay for your property taxes and a lot of things you don’t think about TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

because it’s been going on so long. “Yellowstone” may be romanticizing cattle ranching and making Western wear and home décor trendy right now, but at least one local cowboy has a few things he’d like to get off his chest about those make-believe cowboys on TV. “I’ve seen it a couple times. That Kevin Costner — he talks so low, I can barely understand him,” Chico Spurlock said, in all seriousness. “And you never know when it’s going to be on, the way TV schedules are these TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

days. It’s on and then it’s not. But yeah, everybody you talk to in town asks you about it.” Worse than those gripes, there’s one thing that bothers this real ranch foreman the most: that a fictional story with a powerful, pop culture following depicts cattle ranchers as very wealthy. “Most cattle ranchers, if they’re breaking even, they’ll think they’re doing all right,” said Chico Spurlock. “Everyone I know in ranching has got to have other avenues to earn a living. Everyone.”

ABOVE: Cowboys and ranch hands arrive in a pasture to work at the McFarlin Ingersoll Ranch in Inola. TOP: Jared Stevens sprays cattle with fly repellent. LEFT: While working cattle in the spring, cows and their calves must be herded into large corrals and then separated into two groups.

Tulsa World Magazine 29

Jared Stevens works at the McFarlin Ingersoll Ranch, the 2022 winner of the Oklahoma Centennial Ranch Award.

Among the host of examples he offered is the Stevenses, the ranch hand and his wife, who have a couple of side hustles, including dog breeding. Another local couple Chico mentioned raise and sell cutting horses, which are trained specifically for herding cattle — even the ornery ones who might only comply in the corral after a gentle kick with a horse’s front leg or even a horse’s bite. Yet another example? The other half of the McFarlin Ingersoll Ranch’s fifth and sixth generations — Joleta’s sister, brother-in-law and two nephews — who have a racing horse operation on the family property.

STRIVING FOR A BETTER LEGACY

As Joleta Ingersoll looks to the future of cattle ranching there, she thinks too much of the historic ranch has been allowed to return to a native state for their purposes. That presents a massive challenge moving forward. The family will need to “reclaim” a significant amount of land as pasture

30 Tulsa World Magazine

for the cows from the overgrowth that has taken hold, but the work of clearing trees and brush and moving some earth is expensive and labor-intensive. She also hopes to improve production on the ranch and implement strategic ways of economizing while she still can so that her sons and nephews — and their children and grandchildren — might inherit a place on firmer footing. “We are fortunate to be able to keep this, but I want it to become more profitable for my kids,” she said. “We could run more (cattle), but this is a good number for us right now, especially with feed prices being so high.” She recalls how, when she returned home from Oklahoma State University in 1993 with a bachelor’s degree in animal science, she brought new ideas she had learned in school. “But my dad would always say, `Nah,’” referring to her father, Win Ingersoll, who died in November 2020. “He had his ways and he had his reasons, but I still think there are better ideas for how we could be

doing things. “I’m taking my kid to classes right now. There is a lot of common-sense stuff we could be doing — some is stuff I learned about at OSU — and when Walt saw it on paper and how much it could help our bottom dollar, he was like, `Oh, we’ve got to get that done.’” Walt Spurlock got such an early start, he can’t recall when the prospect of waking up really early and saddling up his horse to work cattle wasn’t his favorite thing to do. That love for cattle ranching, rooted in work, makes him eager to help his mom tackle challenges and take on more and more responsibility as he comes into his own as a young man. “I’m pretty excited in the next couple years to really get more into it. It’s the same for my brother, who is a freshman in high school,” said Walt. “My mom kind of gets to her ways, but she’s open to newer ideas. Prices are going up in everything; there’s a lot that has to change a lot to make a profit in the cattle business.” TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

TULSA TRAILBLAZERS George and Rachel Perryman’s house is shown in an undated photo when it was located at Sixth Street and Boulder Avenue in Tulsa. COURTESY, MONETTA TREPP

Perryman Ranch gave rise to Tulsa Muscogee family’s ranch spanned from modern-day midtown to Broken Arrow

prawling across more than 250,000 acres of Indian Territory, the Perryman Ranch opened its own post office in 1879, and a mail carrier began making weekly trips on horseback from Muskogee. The first batch of letters was delivered to a makeshift lean-to on the ranch, according to some 32 Tulsa World Magazine

Michael Overall // Tulsa World Magazine historical sources, while other accounts suggest that all of the mail went straight to George Perryman’s house, which was a veritable palace by territorial standards. It had six rooms, multiple chimneys and a wraparound porch built with lumber hauled in from Coffeyville, Kansas. It stood near what is now 34th Street and roughly halfway between

Peoria and Lewis avenues, where a well-worn path led down to a natural ford in the Arkansas River. As members of the Muscogee tribe, the Perrymans named their post office “Tulsa,” adapted from a Muscogee word for “old town,” and probably a reference to the original Muscogee settlement that began near the famous Council Oak tree in the 1830s. TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

BELOW: The historic Perryman house, which was moved from Tulsa to Jenks, is shown in 2010. TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE FILE

George Perryman (center of middle row), one of the earliest residents of the city of Tulsa, is pictured with friends in an undated photo. COURTESY, TULSA HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Originally, Perryman herds could be found grazing on open range from the Verdigris River to Duck Creek near present-day Mounds. And the lucrative cattle business persuaded the Frisco Railroad to build an extension from Vinita into Creek territory, bringing the first white settlers to the area in 1882. Before the Oil Boom, Tulsa was a cow town. Harry Campbell, Tulsa’s first attorney, built a small clapboard house near Third Street and Boston Avenue in 1895, when downtown roads were nothing but muddy paths with deep wagon-wheel ruts. And Campbell would sit on his front porch to watch cattle drives, some originating more than 100 miles from Tulsa and ending at the stockyards that used to sit just north of the railroad. The women of Tulsa once called an emergency town meeting to insist that the men build a fence around the old Mission School to keep children from being trampled. In those early days of Tulsa, the boundaries of the Perryman Ranch became widely recognized as what is now 11th Street on the north to roughly 101st Street to the south and from the Arkansas east to Lynn Lane. Covering more than 100 square miles, it encompassed most of modern-day TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE FILE

The Perryman Cemetery at 32nd Street and Utica Avenue was established in 1848. The private family cemetery contains about 50 graves.

midtown, south Tulsa and Broken Arrow, stretching all the way from Cherry Street to the Rose District. In the late 1800s, the ranch marked one of the last outposts of the Old West, where cattle roamed free and cowboys rode across a vast undisturbed prairie. But the Perrymans didn’t own the land. Not legally. It was Muscogee territory, and allotment

shattered the ranch into hundreds of pieces in the early 20th century. Now, the biggest surviving relic from the old ranch is the Perryman family cemetery at 32nd Street and Utica Avenue, which dates back to 1848 and holds about 50 graves. Unless, of course, you count Tulsa itself, which literally wouldn’t be here if not for the Perryman Ranch. Tulsa World Magazine 33

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Solid relationships pave way for company growth First Oklahoma Bank shines with right ad mix

imes may change, but one thing remains the same – when you have the right team in place, oh the places you will go! For more than 34 years, the leadership of First Oklahoma Bank has worked together with the team at the Tulsa World Media Company. “We have enjoyed an extremely positive relationship with the Tulsa World,” said Tom Bennett Jr., Chairman of the Board of First Oklahoma Bank. “Over the years, this has included our work in starting three new banking organizations in Tulsa that have been among the fastestgrowing banks in Oklahoma history.” It also included Sue Bennett’s 10 years of leadership of the Oklahoma Investment Forum, he said. Today, Sue serves as First Oklahoma Bank’s Director of Marketing and Investor Relations. Cyndi Walkup, digital marketing strategist at the Tulsa World Media Company, has been there along the way. She has worked closely with Sue and her team to develop strategic marketing campaigns that include print and online components to reach just the right audience. “As each campaign moves forward, we have the flexibility to change things up and optimize so we deliver the best results,” Walkup said.

“The Tulsa World has helped us tell Oklahomans - who we are, what we are doing, and why that matters,” Bennett said. The Tulsa World has been an essential part of our marketing program in growing each of our three organizations, Bennett said. “The Tulsa World has helped us tell Oklahomans - who we are, what we are doing, and why that matters,” he said. “And the public has responded in remarkable ways!” TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

CYNDI WALKUP DIGITAL STRATEGIST Amplified Digital Marketing

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Over the years, First Oklahoma Bank has used ads, editorials, and articles about and by them on topics of interest to the public, Bennett said. “I have truly enjoyed working with First Oklahoma Bank as they continue to grow,” Walkup said. “In a way, we’ve grown together.” As Tulsa World has expanded to include a full-service Premier Google Partnered digital agency – Amplified Digital – we are able to offer an extended menu of advertising options to best fit each client’s needs, she said. “Our approach is to understand our clients’ goals, know what their message is, identify who to put the message in front of, and use the right combination of print and online to reach that audience effectively – ultimately in this case, translating into phone calls for the Bank,” Walkup said. With transparency, we work efficiently to make sure the results of each campaign meet the Bank’s expectations, with the goal to exceed them at every turn, she said. “A key reason Sue and I moved our family to Tulsa in 1988 was the positive impact that the Tulsa World has on its readership and the community,” Bennett said. “It covers important local news that people care about and writes editorials that address critical issues in a constructive manner.” The Bennetts subscribe to the Tulsa World both at home and the Bank. “We read it thoroughly every morning,” he said. “We think you should too!” For business owners interested in the right marketing approach to achieve their goals, it’s easy to get started, Walkup said. “All it takes is a few minutes to start the conversation,” she said. For more information, contact Cyndi Walkup by email at Cyndi.Walkup@TulsaWorld.com or call 918-260-1425. SPONSORED FEATURE OF TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE

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JENNIFER & JASON JOHNSON OWNERS Garage Innovations

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Getting stains off your garage floor is now easier than ever Garage expert offers home and business solutions

icture this: a puddle of motor oil collects on your garage floor. In the past, concrete cleanup consisted of several steps of scrubbing stains. But this time is different. A wipe with a towel and you enjoy the benefits of durability and functionality provided by Garage Innovations. “Oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, any of the stuff that would normally get spilled on the floor is just gonna wipe right up. None of that will stain it,” said Jason Johnson, co-owner of Garage Innovations. Johnson said that Garage Innovations offers a wide variety of flooring options for your home garage or business garage. He said their high-end experienced installers have been specializing in garage floor installation longer than any other business in Oklahoma. “We are the original garage storage organization and flooring company,” he said. “The demand has definitely grown.” Their two main floors are the Terra Chip Epoxy Floor Coating and the 24-Hour Polyurea Floor Coating. “We can install just about any style and brand of flooring. We can offer about anything,” Johnson said. Four crews work five days per week putting into practice their expertise. The Terra Chip, the premium industrial grade polyurea decorative floor coating system, is Garage Innovations’ most popular. The installation process takes two days due to the material thickness and curing time. To ensure longevity, Terra Chip floor coating system incorporates the latest Polyurea UV stable technology to prevent aging and yellowing effects of UV radiation. This floor system is self-leveling, and crews apply it with a squeegee. The finished thickness is 36 mils. The thicker the floor, the longer it’s going to last, Johnson said. The life expectancy for the Terra Chip floor coating is 20+ years, he said. Johnson said that the 24-hour polyurea floor is more economical and saves time. “It’s going to save them SPONSORED FEATURE OF TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE

75 cents per square foot.” The name gives it away that the prep to finish takes only one day. Crews apply the coating with a paint roller. Several thin layers of coating allow each coat to cure within an hour. The finished thickness of this floor coating is 20 mils and it lasts about 12 years. “Because only one trip is required, we have reduced labor cost combined with reduced material cost due to a thinner application, which results in a lower cost for your floor coating project,” Johnson said. Whichever floor option you choose, the manufacturer of those products is right here in Oklahoma. “We’re not buying product and shipping it in from out of state. So it’s a local company that we’ve done business with for 18 years,” Johnson said. Now, Jason said, they are installing for second generations. “We just went out and did a floor for a brother and sister–two different houses–well, we had done their parents’ house 16 years ago.” The company will also coordinate with new builders. Garage Innovations offers color options including: Autumn, Flint, Canyon, Marble, Riverbed, Graphite, Brownstone, Blue Steel, Sandstone, Oyster Bay, Sutter’s Mill, Pebble Beach, El Dorado, Crested Butte, Cripple Creek and more. Johnson said that their customer service is unmatched. “The good news is, should you drop something heavy on it and it chips it and your floor is 15 years old, at least you’re going to have someone to call to come fix it. And 99 percent of the time, we never charge for anything like that just because it happens so infrequently,” he said. Johnson said that the customers have told them that their garage feels like an extension of their home, a place they can walk barefooted. “It feels like a finished room instead of ugly, stained, greasy concrete.” For more information, call the Tulsa office at 918-872-7990 or visit online at garageinnovation.com for a free in-home consultation. TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

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Tulsa Tech sets students up for network career success More jobs available than students graduating

he modern world is full of technology. Technology has changed the way we work and live our lives. It is continually changing, as advancements keep thing moving faster, and in some cases, getting smaller each year. This constant growth and expansion means that there will always be a need for trained people to understand how it works. You can find training for a job in an in-demand, highpaying career at Tulsa Tech. The I.T. Networking Systems program provides both high school and adult students the training that leads to a successful career. Instructor Julie Ballew is leading the way in keeping up with the need and growth within the industry. “Currently, demand has been really high. We haven’t even been able to keep up with it,” she said. Ballew said that more jobs are available than the number of students graduating, but Tulsa Tech is equipping future leaders at the Riverside Campus to fill those spots in the workforce.

“That’s the goal! Get the certification and then move on to a job that’s related,” Ballew said. Through Tulsa Tech’s accredited Cisco Academy, students will master enterprise-level network design and operation using Cisco technologies via hands-on, practical application inside the systems. “Our program is designed to train students to manage networks. We use Cisco routers and Cisco switches, and the curriculum comes from the Cisco networking academy curriculum,” she said. Students can specialize in advanced networking skills such as security, data center and voice. “Students leave here with the ability to find jobs in a variety of places. Some are help desk, some are at Network TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

JULIE BALLEW CISCO INSTRUCTOR Tulsa Tech

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Operating Centers,” Ballew said. Following the nine-month program, students are able to take the exam for their CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) certificate, which is the entry-level certification for the Cisco certification pyramid. “That’s the goal! Get the certification and then move on to a job that’s related,” Ballew said. “A lot of our students go to local companies. I had a student that was 20 years old this year graduate and is already making $75,000. The demand is high and the pay is good,” One of the best qualities of students is to be a lifelong learner, because technology changes so quickly. “As long as students are able to grow with the industry, they will have a successful career,” she added. Many students have told Ballew that Tulsa Tech has prepared them for success, adding “It gave them a step above another candidate who might be applying for the same position, but didn’t have the training.” And employers agree, commenting often about the professional skills Tulsa Tech teaches students, including communication and teamwork. “Sometimes it’s difficult to get technical-minded individuals to be personable, so I’ve gotten really good feedback about students being prepared on both facets,” she said. Ballew said that she tries to make the class fun with student-led projects, not just lecture format. “There’s a lot of students working on actual equipment that’s employed in industry. The saying is if you learn on a Cisco device, you can pretty much configure any other device,” she said. Start your journey to the in-demand and high paying I.T. industry today with Tulsa Tech. Visit tulsatech.edu/apply to start your application. SPONSORED FEATURE OF TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE

ASK THE EXPERT JOSH ONLEY, CHIEF TECHNOLOGY OFFICER Video Revolution

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Video conference ability becomes essential for home and office Video Revolution keeps up with trends to offer best options

ideo Revolution has grown with the trend of meeting rooms updating their technology to better accommodate employees and clients. “Covid accelerated the way that we were already headed for meetings and remote work and things like that,” said Josh Onley, Chief Technology Officer. Video Revolution was ready for the changes, but it just happened about five years faster than anticipated, Onley said. “It expanded on everything from regular businesses to people needing more reliable, better, more secure wifi and Internet setups at their homes,” he said. Onley said that the updates for offices have been essential in order to keep up and communicate successfully in the business world. He said video conferencing setups became an urgent need as opposed to a “nice to have.” “Because not everybody was working from home, we had everything from higher education adding video conferencing in for distance learning, to corporations having to add more conference rooms and update their rooms with video conferencing,” he said. Video Revolution offers everything from simple huddle room systems that are just a few pieces all the way up to custom solutions where they design the interface customized to the specific needs and personalized to each company. “We even have custom setups where, as you move around the room, our cameras will automatically change to the people that are talking. So, in multipurpose rooms or rooms that get a strange layout, we can have pre-set camera positions. You can either press a button or we can automate it,” he added. Onley said the focus is to make the system as easy as possible for anyone to use. “We handle the video distribution. We’ll integrate it with and communicate with the IT department to take care of everything,” he said. Onley said they have taken out the complication. Technology isn’t the way it used

to be with conferencing systems that require an IT person to set up before every meeting. “We’ve got these set up to where it’s down to as close to an easy button as can be done,” he added. He said if you’re still working from home, Video Revolution wants to help you maintain a professional look. “Have better picture quality and better microphone quality without having the echo and things like that.” The high quality microphones they use are intelligent, he said. “If you’ve got a room that’s got noise from a row of windows, we can tell it to ignore the sound over on that side of the room,” he said. Video Revolution will meet at your space to create the system design and demonstrate how it works to take out any complication. They offer a preventative maintenance contract, and updates are part of their service. “We know that all of this technology can be complicated for people. It’s how we handle it whenever you’ve got an issue and how we can prevent those by maintaining systems properly,” he said. Video Revolution schedules visits twice a year for updates because all of the tech is going to need support, he said. “There’s obviously configurations that are easy, but most of the time, this stuff can be very complicated very quickly. The IT department typically has enough on their plate already. We come in and handle the A/V side of it,” Onley added. “We pride ourselves on making sure that we don’t overextend ourselves so that if there ever is an issue, we’re able to be there in a short amount of time.” Onley said that ease of use is vital. “Our goal is to make it to where anybody can walk in, press a button and have everything ready to go.” For more information visit Video Revolution in person at 7030 S. Lewis Ave, online videorevolution.com, or call 918-495-0586. TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

MIKE SIMONS, TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE‌

Let’s

RODEO F

rom spring till fall, you don’t have to go far in Oklahoma to find a rodeo event. Whether it’s barrel racing, bull riding or a full-blown rodeo including both roughstock and timed events, these competitions are ingrained in Oklahoma’s history and culture, showcasing the best and bravest of the state’s cowgirls and cowboys. Here’s a look inside some of these events we have attended this season. From the biggest bull-riding competition to smaller roundup club community rodeos, these action-packed events are something to see.

Saddles and sunsets Photos by Mike Simons

The Oologah Mustang Roundup Club hosts annual playday events, rodeos, barrel races, team roping and more. The OMRUC promotes “family fun and building community through equine, western and agricultural events.” Here are scenes from the Barrel Racing Spring Series, including the photo on pages 38-39 of Bacen Seger watching the events in Oologah.

Marley McLaughlin (left), 15; Dalli Moore, 13; Chloe Aycock, 18; and Vivian Brookshire, 14, talk before competing.

40 Tulsa World Magazine

ABOVE: Korbin Campbell of Nowata rides Kit during the Barrel Racing Spring Series. BELOW: Levi Noah, 15, of Collinsville talks with friends outside the arena at the Barrel Racing Spring Series at the Oologah Mustang Roundup Club.

Shelbie Huddleston (left), 15, of Skiatook, and Levi Noah, 15, of Collinsville wait outside the arena.

TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

Family tradition Erin Williams Jr., 6, prepares to compete in mutton bustin’ at the Spring Kickoff Rodeo at the Cross Bar Arena on April 18 in Mounds.

Reagor family synonymous with rodeo Photos by Mike Simons

Stephen Reagor became the first African American champion in college rodeo history when he won the calf-roping title at the 2003 College National Finals Rodeo.

J. Hamilton (left) and Dustin Hamilton pose for a portrait at the Spring Kickoff Rodeo at the Cross Bar Arena in Mounds. TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

The Reagor family is well-known in rodeo around Tulsa, for good reason. Stephen Reagor says about 15-20 of his family members have competed in rodeo events. A graduate of Booker T. Washington High School, Reagor attended Bacone College in Muskogee and received nationwide acclaim for his feats on horseback. At the 2003 College National Finals Rodeo, Reagor won the calf-roping title, becoming the first African American champion in college rodeo history. His father, Sidney Reagor, was a longtime calf-roper. Stephen Reagor organizes about two open rodeo events — meaning anyone can compete — a year. One of them is the Spring Kickoff Rodeo, which Tulsa World staff photographer Mike Simons shot this year at the Cross Bar Arena. The other big one is the Sidney Reagor’s Legendary Rodeo, honoring his dad. This year, that event will be July 23 at the Turley Roundup Club Arena.

Paiton Fulbright, 4, competes in the mutton bustin’ competition during the 11th annual Sidney Reagor’s Legendary Rodeo at the McCarty Park rodeo arena in Owasso last year.

Tulsa World Magazine 41

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: A bronco stands in a pen during Osage Bronc Days at Osage County Fairgrounds on March 26. Lucas Macza, of Alberta, Canada, attaches a bridle before competing during Osage Bronc Days. Macza wraps a bandage around his wrist.

BRONC or BUST Osage Bronc Days features top PRCA riders Photos by Ian Maule

Paying tribute to the classic event in rodeo, Osage Bronc Days PRCA Xtreme Broncs at the Osage County Fairgrounds featured 50 of the top PRCA bronc riders competing on the toughest broncs. The annual Osage Bronc Days has been on the rise, gaining global and regional attention. Not only was the event supported by national and local partnerships, but contestants poured in from all over the United States and Canada to compete.

Tanner Butner competes during Osage Bronc Days. Lucas Macza bows his head before competing during Osage Bronc Days.

Ira Dickinson rides his horse in Osage Bronc Days. 42 Tulsa World Magazine

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João Henrique Lucas rides his bull during PBR’s Unleash the Beast Tour event at the BOK Center on April 15.

Unleashing the

BEAST

Eli Vastbinder walks onto the stage during the rider announcement during PBR’s Unleash the Beast Tour on April 16. Brandon Davis falls off of a bull.

PBR events offer action-packed competition Photos by Ian Maule

PBR — Professional Bull Riders — events are strictly bull riding. And bulls are also competing for points and prize money. Each qualified ride is worth up to 100 points — 50 for the bull and 50 for the rider. Four judges award up to 25 points each to the rider and the bull. All of the judges’ scores are combined and then divided by two for the official score. Founded in 1992, the PBR was born in a Scottsdale, Arizona, motel when 20 rodeo cowboys huddled to talk about establishing bull riding as a stand-alone sport. Each invested $1,000. Now? Annual attendance is more than 3 million per season.

ABOVE: Dalton Kasel rides his bull at the BOK Center on April 16.

LEFT: Cool Whip, a bull competing in PBR’s Unleash the Beast, rests in his pen. Brennon Eldred bows his head in prayer.

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Tulsa World Magazine 43

PHOTO COURTESY, NATIONAL COWGIRL MUSEUM AND HALL OF FAME‌

Alice Adams became a celebrity in the 1920s as “the girl who could ride anything on four legs.”

Rodeo

HISTORY

Oklahoma steeped in rodeo tradition Michael Overall // Tulsa World Magazine‌

urning 18 years old in Southern California, she was admittedly hired only for her good looks when a rodeo promoter wanted some “glamour girls” to just ride around between competitions. But it soon became obvious that Alice Adams could do more than just ride. She became a celebrity in the 1920s as “the girl who could ride anything on four legs.” And on the national rodeo circuit, she offered $100 to anyone who could bring a horse she couldn’t handle — famously conquering 27 bucking broncos in a single day. Back then, rodeo champions could become household names, performing in front of sold-out crowds at New York’s Madison Square Garden and attracted attention from Hollywood 44 Tulsa World Magazine

producers. But the sport’s popularity declined sharply after World War II as audiences found other distractions. In the late 1940s, Americans were buying more than 100,000 television sets a week. By then, Adams had retired from competition and was living in Tulsa, where she worked for Ranchman magazine. And despite the challenges the sport was facing at the national level, she spearheaded efforts to start a new rodeo. The International Round Up Club Cavalcade began in 1947 at the Osage County Fairgrounds in Pawhuska, an hour northwest of Tulsa. And today it promotes itself as the biggest, the oldest and the best amateur rodeo in the world.

It’s deliberately the opposite of the glitzy productions Adams knew in her career. No big-time prize money. No invitations to the National Finals. No brand-new pickups to win. Most competitors will pitch tents for the week rather than spend money on hotels. At the Cavalcade and similar events across small-town Oklahoma, rodeos found a way to thrive again — not as showbiz, but as a family-friendly sport rooted in the traditions of the Old West. Adams died in 1994. But the Cavalcade will mark its 75th consecutive year this July 18-24. Making professional rodeo history, Oklahoma offers the standard-setting Lazy E Arena southeast of Guthrie. The facility opened in 1984 as the brainchild of newspaper publisher E.K. Gaylord II — presumably the “E” in the Lazy E’s name — who wanted to host both the National Steer Roping Finals and the National Finals Rodeo at the same time and under the same roof, creating one of the largest rodeos ever seen. The combo, however, happened only once before the National Finals Rodeo moved to Las Vegas in 1985, but the arena nonetheless continues to host some of the largest and most prestigious rodeos, including the World Championship Junior Rodeo this July 26-30. Here are some other rodeos to look forward to this season: Sidney Reagor’s Legendary Rodeo, July 23 at the Turley Roundup Club Arena. International Finals Youth Rodeo, July 10-15, Heart of Oklahoma Expo Center, Shawnee. It’s the ultimate rodeo event for youths in the sport. Chandler Open Rodeo, July 29-30, Tilghman Park, Chandler. Okmulgee Invitational Rodeo & Festival, Aug. 12-13, Omniplex Arena, Okmulgee. Okmulgee’s Invitational Rodeo is the nation’s oldest African American rodeo and one of the state’s longest running rodeos. Will Rogers Memorial Rodeo, Aug. 24-27, American Legion Rodeo Grounds, Vinita. Elk City Rodeo of Champions is expected to attract more than 15,000 people this Sept. 2-4. Oklahoma’s Richest Rodeo, Oct. 14-16, Lazy E Arena, Guthrie. TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

Jada Haken of Pawnee works on her horse Cheddar before competing in the Oklahoma Cowgirls Association barrel race in March in Sapulpa.

Blazing SADDLES

Mysha Trammell of Tahlequah competes on her horse Trigger.

Cowgirls’ barrel racing an exciting display Photos by Mike Simons

The Oklahoma Cowgirls Association was formed in 1974 by a group of women who wanted a fun place to compete and socialize. Now, it’s the oldest barrel racing organization in Oklahoma with some of the top competitors in the world. Barrel racing is one of the most exciting spectacles to watch in rodeo. Entering the arena at full speed, horse and rider must navigate a cloverleaf pattern around three barrels and then ride for the exit. The OCA boasts several national and international finalists and world champions. The organization’s races are held March through November with many events, such as this one photographed by the Tulsa World’s Mike Simons, at Cutters Corners in Sapulpa.

Steele McNiel, 10, of Bristow, practices roping.

Jada Haken of Pawnee works on her horse Cheddar.

Reesa Lierly of Sapulpa competes on her horse Bullies and Guns in the Oklahoma Cowgirls Association barrel race. TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

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46 Tulsa World Magazine

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A drone shows horses and their riders at Cutters Corners in Sapulpa. MIKE SIMONS, TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE‌

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COURTESY, SILVER DOLLAR CITY

Silver Dollar City is internationally awarded for excellence and is one of America’s best theme parks.

Silver Dollar City Announces the King of the High-Wire Nik Wallenda’s Zirkus & Chuggington Adventure Depot Imagination Comes to Life This Summer at National Kids Fest Now – July 24

T COURTESY, SILVER DOLLAR CITY

The authentic Silver Dollar City Steam Train, one of 40 rides & attractions, is legendary with many generations of park visitors, still delighting all ages. SPONSORED FEATURE OF TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE

What are you waiting for?

his summer Silver Dollar City’s National Kids Fest brings two new entertainment icons to the 1880s-style, internationally-awarded theme park, located in Branson, Missouri. The National Kids Fest runs June 11-July 24 and features new productions created for Silver Dollar City. One headliner is the circus great himself, Nik Wallenda, who is presenting the never-seenbefore epic show, Nik Wallenda’s Zirkus. Another, for preschoolers, is Chuggington Adventure Depot, a fully-immersive interactive playland

adventure that brings the hit animated series “Chuggington” to life with their favorite characters, locations and more. Daredevils beware as excitement has few limits with seventh generation circus royalty and king of the high-wire Nik Wallenda taking center stage. The famous Nik Wallenda returns to Silver Dollar City approximately a decade after his record-breaking stunt the Iron Jaw, when he dangled by his jaw from a helicopter 200 feet above Silver Dollar City. This time, the Wallenda family brings a variety of talent as they perform great feats in the new Nik Wallenda’s Zirkus, which is ‘circus’ in their native German language. TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

COURTESY, SILVER DOLLAR CITY Nik Wallenda’s Zirkus is captivating while heart stopping. The Wallenda troupe has shocked millions of viewers with their death-defying stunts on the wire and in the sky, but its Nik Wallenda who has singlehandedly broken 13 Guinness World Records.

Created exclusively for Silver Dollar City, Nik Wallenda’s Zirkus showcases soaring acrobatics, aerial stunts, human pyramids, trick bicycling, and dangerous high-wire acts. The theme, says Wallenda, “The impossible is possible. We want to present an inspiring message that ‘I can do anything if I set my mind to it.’ We hope guests come to be impressed and leave inspired,” said Wallenda. “The impossible is possible. We want to present an inspiring message that ‘I can do anything if I set my mind to it,’” said Wallenda. Younger guests take to the rails at the Chuggington Adventure Depot as they step into their very own trainee Chugger, chosen from the modern and colorful fleet of train engines. On the interactive adventure, a lively ‘Conductor’ helps guide the exploratory fun as kids travel through a wallto-wall re-creation of the town of Chuggington, playfully prompting active participation like “follow the leader,” “chug backwards,” and “dance party.”’ Preschoolers will meet and dance along with their Chugger friends like Wilson, Brewster and Koko and explore favorite Chuggington locations including The Roundhouse, The Ice Cream Factory & The Repair Shed all from the global hit series produced by Herschend Entertainment Studios. There’s more summer fun with 40 rides & attractions, including world footprint roller coasters like 2015 Guinness World Record holder, Outlaw Run, breaking the record for the steepest drop on a wooden coaster; TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

COURTESY, SILVER DOLLAR CITY Time Traveler, the Fastest, Steepest, Tallest, Spinning coaster in America, is the first and only spinning coaster with three inversions, a vertical loop and a double launch.

Time Traveler, the fastest, steepest, tallest spinning coaster in America and Mystic River Falls featuring the tallest drop on a raft ride in the Western Hemisphere. Guests can sample Silver Dollar City foodie favorites with a ‘Summer Tasting Passport’ featuring specialty funnel cakes, artisan home-made ice cream cones and the City’s legendary skillets. Craftsmen, demonstrating throughout the park, teach kids & families the ways of yesteryear in a fun way – all designed to make memories worth repeating for generations to come. About Chuggington: Chuggington, enjoyed by train-loving preschoolers, is currently airing on A-list broadcast networks and key streaming platforms in over 178 countries. Preschoolers can view Season 1-6 on YouTube, where it has registered more than a billion views and has more than 1 million subscribers on its U.S. channel. Produced and distributed globally by Herschend Entertainment Studios, Chuggington is an animated series set in the “traintastic” world of modern and colorful train engines. The series follows the humorous, educational and contemporary adventures of three young trainee engines: eager Wilson, daring Koko, and loyal Brewster, all of whom learn to ride the rails of life. The young trio of locomotives engage with a diverse cast of characters to learn important lessons, like teamwork, listening, perseverance, patience, self-confidence, and building friendship. For more information visit www.chuggington.com About Silver Dollar City: Silver Dollar City, the 1880s-style theme park nestled in the Ozark Mountains near

Branson, is internationally awarded for excellence in theme, presentation and operations. The picturesque, tree-lined “City” was founded atop the massive National Landmark, the great Marvel Cave, and offers 40 rides & attractions, a demonstrating crafts colony 100 artisans strong and hosts 10 worldclass festivals and events featuring a variety of entertainment plus live concerts. Home to several roller coasters with record-setting footprints, home-style foods are in high demand with keen emphasis on specialty items and famous cinnamon breads. National Kids Fest is presented by Arvest Bank. For more information visit www.silverdollarcity.com

COURTESY, SILVER DOLLAR CITY Chuggington Adventure Depot brings the hit animated series “Chuggington” to life with favorite characters, locations and more.

Summer Events • National Kids Fest | June 11-July 24 • Moonlight Madness | July 23–August 7 • Southern Gospel Picnic| August 25–September 5 • Country Music Days |September 8-11, 15-18 For more events and music concerts–visit www.silverdollarcity.com. TULSAWORLD MAGAZINE

TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE FILE‌

Sharon and Randy Bell of Tulsa dance to the sounds of the Tulsa Playboys at Cain’s Ballroom.

Giddy

50 Tulsa World Magazine

If reading about ranches and rodeos has you in the mood to strap on some boots and go boot scootin’ or chomp down on a chicken-fried steak bigger than your head, we’ve got you covered. • Here are some places to shop, eat, dance and even experience cowboy and cowgirl life at a dude ranch or trail ride. Stacey Dickens, Nicole Marshall Middleton, Jimmie Tramel // Tulsa World Magazine TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

Cowboy experiences:

Boot Scootin’ Tulsa has a rich history of boot scootin.’ • Tulsa City Limits and the Caravan are just a couple notable spots that are long gone. So where can a person go to do some boot scootin’ nowadays? • Here are four suggestions: TOM GILBERT, TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE FILE‌

Track 5 is a throwback country dance hall at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino. Guests filled the dance floor at Whiskey 918 for a PBR after-party in 2018.

TRACK 5‌

Paying homage to Oklahoma’s boot scootin’ heritage, the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino added to its performance venues in 2019 with the debut of Track 5, a new-but-old-school country dance hall. Track 5 features a stage and a 1,200-square-foot wooden dance floor. The name? Coincidentally, the fifth track on several albums makes reference to Tulsa or Oklahoma, including “Tulsa Time” by Don Williams, “Tell Me Something Bad About Tulsa” by George Strait, “Oklahoma Sunshine” by Waylon Jennings, “Home Sweet Oklahoma” by Leon Russell and “Tulsa Turnaround” by Kenny Rogers.

CAIN’S BALLROOM‌

Tulsa’s historic honky tonk was the place for Western swing music when it served as a base of operations for Bob Wills and the Texas Playboys. Their association with Cain’s Ballroom began in 1935. They performed first at weekly dances, then twice-a-week dances. KVOO radio broadcasts with Bob Wills and the Texas Playboys originated from Cain’s Ballroom. Because the broadcasts had an alleged reach of 28 states, Cain’s Ballroom and Tulsa became synonymous with Western swing. Guitarist and arranger Eldon Shamblin, who joined Wills in 1937, told

TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

IAN MAULE, TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE FILE‌

the Tulsa World’s Wayne Mason in 1970: “Why, I remember one time, when we had that midnight broadcast here back before the war. There was a bunch of people up in Wisconsin who chartered a rail coach and came to Tulsa just to dance. Can you imagine it?” Cain’s Ballroom now hosts musical acts from many genres and continues to gain awards as one of the nation’s top club venues. Wills’ birthday is celebrated there annually with a next-gen Western swing show.

WHISKEY 918‌

Located in the Blue Dome District of downtown Tulsa, Whiskey 918 bills itself as Tulsa’s premier country dance

hall, saloon and event center. It’s prime time for female boot scootin’ on Friday nights, which are designated as ladies nights. The venue was formerly known as Legends Dance Hall and Saloon. It was rebranded as Whiskey 918 in 2017.

TUMBLEWEED DANCE HALL‌

Also known as the Tumbleweed, Tumbleweed Dance Hall in Stillwater has a history that dates to 1981. The venue’s boot scootin’ area is significant, but Tumbleweed also hosts a long-running outdoor music festival on the premises. The 30th annual Calf Fry took place there in April. Tulsa World Magazine 51

Cowboy experiences:

Guest ranches

If you’re a city slicker who’s curious about cowboy life, a day at a dude ranch might be right for you.

STEPHEN PINGRY PHOTOS, TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE‌

Owners Tom and Suzy Warren own Meadow Lake Ranch, a bed and breakfast and dude ranch in Sand Springs.

COURTESY, ROBBERS CAVE STABLES‌

No experience is needed to go for a guided ride at Robbers Cave Stables.

ROBBERS CAVE STABLES

Starr Trail, Wilburton; 918-465-1500 robberscavestables.com At Robbers Cave Stables in Wilburton, guests can come for the day or book a package that includes a horseback ride and an overnight stay. Guests sleep in an old covered wagon after eating a cowboy steak dinner. Families are welcome, and no experience is needed to go for a guided ride on horseback through the Sans Bois Mountains.

REBEL HILL GUEST RANCH

420175 E. 1930 Road, Antlers; 580-271-0061 rebelhillguestranch.com Rebel Hill is a working horse ranch in Antlers that offers a variety of experiences. Visitors can take guided trail rides (young guests can ride Welch ponies), see the wildlife park and hike.

HONEY LEE RANCH

7201 N. Douglas Blvd., Jones; 405-204-3490 honeyleeranchtrailrides.com Honey Lee Ranch in Jones offers year-round trail rides for ages 6 and up. Riders can meander over 300 acres of manicured trails through forests and over streams. 52 Tulsa World Magazine

Meadow Lake Ranch is a B&B turned filming destination 3450 S. 137th West Ave., Sand Springs 918-494-6000, meadowlakeranch.com Suzy and Tom Warren bought Meadow Lake Ranch in Sand Springs as a retirement home in August 1999. But their idea of a retirement might be a lot different than most. “I bought a tractor and brushhog and I was out here knocking stuff down, digging and cutting ... having a ball, “ Tom Warren said. Before long, his gas bill for his backhoe and bulldozer started to get out of hand. By this point, the couple had built a couple of cabins and had hosted a few hamburger cookouts on the idyllic spot with a view of downtown Tulsa as well as the lake with cedar trees. Warren got the bright idea of posting a sign that said “Pay my diesel fuel” as a means of using the venue to help support his hobbies. Then, someone asked, “Do you allow weddings here?” “And before long, we are in the wedding business,” he said.

At Meadow Lake Ranch, guests can enjoy an action-packed vacation with trail rides and lessons in cowboy skills.

So the retirement home evolved into a wedding venue, bed and breakfast and dude ranch. The B&B package includes a “big ol’ country breakfast, bank-fishing, hiking, horseshoes and nap-inducing hammocks.” At the dude ranch, guests can enjoy an action-packed vacation with trail rides and cowboy skills lessons. Learn to shoot a “six-gun” and lever-action rifle, throw a tomahawk, shoot a bow TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

and arrow and rope a straw calf. “We have been visited as a distinct destination by people from all 50 states and 43 foreign countries. People have flown here from Albania and Liechtenstein just to our ranch, and then they fly back,” Warren said. “Somehow, we are kinda famous in Europe.” But they likely could never predict what the scenic Meadow Lake Ranch would be sought for next. The movie “The Rock-n-Roll Dreams of Christopher Duncan” was filmed there, and word about the benefits of the ranch, with its many options for backgrounds, spread among the film and TV communities. National commercials, documentaries, shows and movies have been filmed there. Most notably, the made-in-Oklahoma show “Reservation Dogs” as well as the Oscar-winning movie “Minari” both filmed scenes there. And the film crews keep calling. “For people looking for an Oklahoma adventure, this is the place to go,”

Tom Warren demonstrates roping at Meadow Lake Ranch.

Warren said. “It is hard to keep up with demand. We book the dude ranch two and three years in advance. “We are just doing what we love

doing. I want to get up in the morning and get busy, but I have not worked a day since I have been here because I’m having so much fun.”

Voted

One of Tulsa’s favorite new boutiques in 2022 Come and see what all the hype is about! 103 N Main St, Sand Springs Hippycowgirls.com

TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

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Cowboy experiences:

Eat

Cowboys know good grub, and here are some places where they like to eat. From steaks to barbecue to calf fries and biscuits and gravy, most of these restaurants have been serving up good food for decades.

TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE FILE‌

The pie case at Clanton’s Cafe in Vinita is surrounded by news clippings and family photos. Clanton’s makes classic Oklahoma plates such as chicken-fried steak, fried chicken and fried catfish.

CLANTON’S CAFE‌

CLICK’S STEAKHOUSE‌

319 E. Illinois Ave.; 918-256-9053 clantonscafe.com The Clanton family has been in the restaurant business in Vinita since 1927. In 1947, the family opened Clanton’s Cafe at its present location. Clanton’s Cafe is known for the “regional specialty” called calf fries, but easily the most famous item on its extensive menu is its chicken-fried steak. Michael and Jean Stern, whose book “Roadfood” is a celebration of the wide variety of American cuisine, listed what they consider the best dish they’ve had in each of the 50 states. For Oklahoma, it’s the chicken-fried steak at Clanton’s. It doesn’t get any more “cowboy” than that.

MAC’S BBQ‌

1030 W. Rogers Blvd., Skiatook macsbbqok.com/menu Mac’s BBQ is a Skiatook landmark and a favorite local eatery. Recognized by Southern Living as one of the South’s best BBQ joints in 2019, loyal fans travel from far and wide to enjoy pulled pork and ribs smoked with hickory and pecan wood on hickory pits. Mac’s was founded in 1985 by Mike McMillan, and his son-in-law, Adam Green, continues the family tradition. Some of the menu favorites are the 54 Tulsa World Magazine

409 Harrison St., Pawnee clickssteakhouse.com Click’s has been open for 55 years. It is a traditional small-town steakhouse. In other words, it’s affordable. You’ll pay less than $25 for a 24-ounce steak with all the sides. Try getting that in Las Vegas. People drive from all over northern Oklahoma to get to Click’s. Also, check out the town square. Pawnee is a cool little town, the home of entertainer/promoter Pawnee Bill and Dick Tracy cartoonist Chester Gould.

RANCHERS CLUB‌

TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE FILE‌

Mac’s Barbecue has won top prizes at some of the most prestigious competitions, including the Reserve Grand Champion title at the American Royal Barbecue Championships, considered “the World Series of barbecue.”

Mac, the Barbeque Frito Pie, the Spicy Pie, the Okie, the Messy Pig and the Loaded Bake. Their award-winning secret recipe barbecue sauce enhances the flavor of the hickory- and pecansmoked meats. Don’t forget to save room for dessert! Enjoy freshly baked cobbler and bread pudding.

H103 Student Union, Stillwater theranchersclub.com Oklahoma State University’s School of Hospitality and Tourism Management is one of the best in the world. It makes sense that it would be home to one of the state’s top restaurants. The Ranchers Club is arguably one of the best steakhouses in Oklahoma, decorated with memorabilia from Oklahoma ranches. The “Vegas Cut” steak is a tender steak developed at OSU’s meat science lab.

COLLINSVILLE LIVESTOCK SALE BARN CAFE‌

13810 N. Old Highway 169, Collinsville facebook.com/Collinsville-LivestockSale-Barn-Cafe TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

This cafe, known for its breakfast, is only open on Saturdays from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., when the sale barn is open and bustling with cowboys and cowgirls. Recently, the cafe became the home of Chef Raphael and Raphael’s Southern BBQ. This is a perfect place to watch the livestock sales and get the true Oklahoma ranch hand experience and fill your belly at the same time.

THE SPUDDER‌

6536 E. 50th St. thespudder.com There are many places in Tulsa where one can get an excellent steak, but for a true Tulsa steakhouse experience, The Spudder is the place to go. Named for a piece of oil field equipment — an example of which sits outside the restaurant’s front door — the interior is filled with all kinds of memorabilia related to Tulsa’s days as the “Oil Capital of the World.” Its signature offering is “The Gusher,” a 22-oz., bone-in ribeye that Food Network personality Duff Goldman declared the best steak he’s ever

TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

DOUG HOKE, THE OKLAHOMAN‌

Cattlemen’s Steakhouse in Oklahoma City has been in business since 1910.

had. But there are other cuts available of equal quality, along with chicken, lamb and seafood.

CATTLEMEN’S STEAKHOUSE‌

1309 S. Agnew Ave., Oklahoma City cattlemensrestaurant.com If you are in the mood for a bit of a road trip, head to Oklahoma City’s Historic Stockyards. There, you will find Cattlemen’s Steakhouse, which has been serving up steak and breakfast

since 1910, making it the city’s oldest continuously operating restaurant. The menu includes trademark lamb fries, signature steaks, special “Blue Ribbon” prime steaks and the famous house salad dressing. Try the Presidential Choice T-Bone, billed as “two steaks in one,” which is what President George H.W. Bush ate during his visit to the restaurant, according to the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department.

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Cowboy experiences:

Shop If you are looking to shop for a few things with a Western flair, here are some places where you can find everything from jewelry and clothing to ranch house pottery and furniture. STEPHEN PINGRY, TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE‌

Hippy Cowgirls Bou-dega features a casual wine and cheese bar.

HIPPY COWGIRLS BOU-DEGA‌

103 N. Main St., Sand Springs Hippy Cowgirls Bou-dega is a new wine and cheese bar with a boutique in Sand Springs. Kim Zieg, the owner of OkieSpice and Trade Co., opened the shop in February. The bou-dega, a portmanteau of “boutique” and “bodega,” offers Made in Oklahoma cheeses, small plates, wines and local craft beers in the front of the shop. Fashion with a hippy/Western flair, such as hats, dresses, boots, jewelry and tees, are available in the back. The wine bar also hosts private parties for events such as bridal showers, which can be held indoors or outdoors on the patio.

The shop’s hours vary; check hippycowgirls.com for details.

FRANKOMA POTTERY‌

Southeast corner of the intersection of U.S. 75 and South 171st Street Frankoma Pottery is synonymous with Oklahoma culture and western themes. It’s not uncommon for people to travel here to buy the perfect pottery for their ranch home. The company, founded by John Frank, is known for its sculptures, figurines and dinnerware in earthy colors such as Prairie Green and Desert Gold. Frankoma Pottery became a household name in the pottery industry throughout the ’50s and ’60s.

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Frankoma Pottery’s Sapulpa factory shut down in 2004, but the company has since been revived by a new owner. 56 Tulsa World Magazine

The company’s new owner, Dennis Glascock, set out to save the company after it fell on hard times. And now, Glascock is moving into the next phase by building a new brick-and-mortar location in Glenpool that will serve as a manufacturing center as well as a storefront for customers.

WESTERN WEAR‌

Drysdales, 3220 S. Memorial Drive, and Boot Barn, 10127 E. 71st St. Cavender’s Western Outfitter and Tack Shop, 8035 E. 31st St. Dos Amigos Western Wear, 2115 S. Garnett Road For jeans, boots, belts, hats and more, shoppers have several options. Established outfitters such as Drysdales, a Tulsa standard that was purchased by Boot Barn in 2018, and Texas-based Cavender’s are solid bets. Dos Amigos Western Wear carries brands such as Ariat, Platini and Rock Revival.

TULSA WORLD FILE‌

Drysdales is a Tulsa standard that was purchased by Boot Barn in 2018. TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

at home

MICHAEL NOBLE JR., TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE

Woodland Creek Furniture produces custom Western-style furniture out of its 55,000-square-foot showroom and workshop in Tulsa.

Where to find Western and ranch-style décor

Grace Wood // Tulsa World Magazine

estern décor is certainly having a moment, especially here in Oklahoma. Incorporating items such as cowhide rugs and colorful, tribal-inspired geometric bedding, many homeowners are turning to the American West for inspiration when it comes to decorating their homes. Even if you don’t live adjacent to the American West, this type of home furnishing can be accessible to you. For those wishing to deck out their abodes with items reminiscent of cowboy country, here are three Oklahoma stores specializing in Western furniture and décor.

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WOODLAND CREEK FURNITURE‌

Woodland Creek furniture was started in 2012 originally as a wholesale outfit, selling furniture to companies such as Bass Pro Shops. Now, the company is focused on producing custom Westernstyle furniture out of a 55,000-square-foot showroom and workshop in Tulsa. The company concentrates on creating special rustic pieces, using locally sourced materials, said Donna Laster, general manager. Woodland Creek also offers The Refuge Lifestyle, which features new trends in contemporary, modern and rustic furniture. “Anything you can dream of, we can have built for you,” Laster said. “Because we source our wood locally, our furniture has its own personality, its own life. It has a story — maybe it was a tree that stood on a knoll that someone sat under to be protected from the sun. It exudes a story — just by being near it, you know that tree lived an exquisite life.” People want rustic, ranch-style furniture and décor because it reminds them of what’s most important in life, Laster said. “The lifestyle and the aura that comes with the furniture draws people to it because it takes us back to a simpler time in our lives,” Laster said. “It takes us back to our roots; it’s home-grown. It lends itself to sitting at the dinner table and telling stories like how it was in the old days.”

COURTESY, LOREC RANCH HOME FURNISHINGS‌

Custom barstools from LOREC Ranch Home Furnishings are accessorized with dyed crocodile skin and leather fringe.

TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE FILE‌

A table being created is on display at Woodland Creek Furniture. The company uses locally sourced wood to create its home furnishings. 58 Tulsa World Magazine

LOREC RANCH HOME FURNISHINGS‌

LOREC Ranch Home Furnishings is a family-owned rustic Western and accessory store with locations in Pawhuska, Oklahoma City and Amarillo. Founded in 1993, the company uses premium cow and deer hides, Tibetan leathers and Western-style fabrics to create items for bedrooms, offices, dining rooms and living rooms, as well as other home accents. “When you come into our front door, you’ll smell the wonderful woods that we use for all of our furnishings and the scent of leather,” said Dr. Kari López, founder and CEO of LOREC Ranch Home furnishings. “You can pick out the beautiful fabrics you’d like to use and the stains and color washes — turquoise, barn red, gray — you want. You get this experience when you come into our store, and we consider you a friend when you leave. We really get to know our clients — they’re our main inspiration.” López said she has noticed over the years that her clients are drawn to the iconic history of the American TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

LONE STAR WESTERN DÉCOR‌

Lone Star Western Décor is a mail-order catalog and e-commerce business based in Enid offering décor, rugs, bedding, kitchenware, furniture and more in the Western and Southwestern styles. The company was started 20 years ago out of CEO Jason Dupus’ garage and is now one of the largest e-commerce companies of its kind, Dupus said. In addition to Lone Star Western Décor, the company also has two other stores — Black Forest Décor and Bella Coastal Décor — offering lodge and cabin-themed décor and nautical-style home décor, respectively. “Western décor can be broken down into two categories: cowboy-themed and Southwestern-themed,” Dupus said. “The stronger and more popular theme is Southwestern — we’ve noticed that people are really drawn to the colorful Southwestern patterns and geometric shapes and want to see those in their homes.” A hallmark of Southwestern furniture and décor is the rich colors like turquoise, chocolate brown, tan, amber, red and orange. Signature Southwestern geometric patterns are extremely popular, especially for bedding and rugs. One special aspect of Lone Star Western Décor is the sheer

COURTESY, LONE STAR WESTERN DÉCOR‌

The Sheridan Table Lamp from Lone Star Western Décor uses leather engraved with a Western-style floral pattern.

volume of items it offers, Dupus said. “The large selection across several categories that we have sets us apart — we have so many unique items that you can’t get anywhere else,” Dupus said. “A big part of our inventory are custom designs and things that were made just for us, and that makes us pretty unique, too.”

COURTESY, LOREC RANCH HOME FURNISHINGS‌

The use of animal hides is extremely popular in the world of Western furniture and décor, said Dr. Kari López, founder and CEO of LOREC Ranch Home Furnishings.

West, and they want a piece of that culture to bring home with them. “It all comes back to the American cowboy — John Wayne, the nostalgic feeling of the look in a cowboy’s eye, the shake of his hand, their whole persona that we try to bring into our store,” López said. “People want a signature piece of Western couture in their own homes.” TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

COURTESY, LONE STAR WESTERN DÉCOR‌

Bedding from Lone Star Western Décor incorporates a rusty red color and chocolate brown, two colors CEO Jason Dupus said are very popular for Southwestern décor. Tulsa World Magazine 59

Western

WEDDINGS GROW IN POPULARITY

Laid-back ceremonies incorporate rustic touches at picturesque locations Grace Wood Tulsa World Magazine‌

ith each year that passes, it seems like more and more young couples are ditching ritzy wedding venues and black-tie-optional dress codes in favor of a more stripped-down, relaxed vibe for their big day. Across the Great Plains, an increasing amount of folks looking to tie the knot prefer to do so in the style of a Western wedding — think Mason jars, hay bales, string lights and cowboychic attire. According to a survey done by The Knot, 15% of couples chose to rent out a nontraditional venue like a barn or ranch for their wedding reception in 2017, compared to only 2% in 2009. Wedding planners and venue owners agree that this heightened demand for Western weddings stems from the explosive popularity of shows such as “1883” and “Yellowstone.” There is also a desire to return to the weddings of yore, which focused not on flair and Instagramable moments but on family, friends and simple elegance. Brittney and Trenton Hackworth walk among guests at their Western wedding at Tatanka Ranch on July 3, 2021. COURTESY, STEPHANIE DAWN PHOTOGRAPHY‌

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COURTESY, NEIL FISCHER, BY ASPYNN TABOR PHOTOGRAPHY‌

Cow skulls, flowers and cacti decorate the bride’s and groom’s place settings at an Old West Buffalo Co. wedding.

The focus of a Western wedding has always been about a simple celebration,” said Neil Fischer, owner of Old West Buffalo Co., a popular Western wedding venue in Pawhuska. “They’re focused on family, food, being in a really pretty place —some of the things that can make life elegant that aren’t the most expensive but can have the most value.” To Fischer, a Western wedding is not just a wedding that takes place in a barn. It’s a combination of location and décor that makes the ceremony and reception feel authentic to Western and ranch life. It’s all about the setting — the backdrop of a beautiful natural landscape and even animals like horses and bison,” Fischer said. “For décor, we use things that anyone could have, like whisky barrels, vintage lanterns and wagon wheels, that make our venue feel like the Old West. We make it even more special with the stone fireplace and gold chandeliers we have at our venue.” The Western style is multifaceted, which allows each couple to reflect their own style onto their wedding while still achieving the laid-back Western feel, said Ally Grill, ranch manager at Tatanka Ranch, a wedding venue in Stroud. Everyone has their own sort of vibe,” Grill said. “If you go with a more boho TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

COURTESY, NEIL FISCHER, BY ASPYNN TABOR PHOTOGRAPHY‌

Old West Buffalo Co.’s wedding venue is designed to look like a Western theater.

COURTESY, NEIL FISCHER‌

Guests can interact with friendly bison at Old West Buffalo Co.

theme, you might have rugs going up and down the aisle. Or, for a more rustic theme, you might have wine barrels around to decorate the area. If the couple is into ranching, they might have cowhides. If the groom is into hunting, there might be antlers on the table. There are so many things you can do that stay within the rustic realm.”

As far as dress code, the wedding party and their guests can be as dressed up — or down — as they wish, which can help eliminate some of the stress that weddings can bring about, Fischer said. “It’s a celebration that doesn’t have to be so fancy,” Fischer said. “Guests can come in jeans if they want to. These weddings are a lot more relaxed and Tulsa World Magazine 61

COURTESY, TATANKA RANCH, BY LOVE SICK PHOTOS‌

Western weddings often incorporate rustic elements such as old barrels and take place outside, said Ally Grill, ranch manager at Tatanka Ranch.

are more about celebrating with family than going to some fancy event. It’s very appealing because it eliminates some stress — you’re not as worried about ‘Am I dressed up enough?’ ‘Am I wearing the right shoes?’ — it’s a lot more casual.” Groomsmen typically rock jeans, white button-up shirts and cowboy hats, while brides will wear ivory or white gowns accessorized with turquoise jewelry, Grill said. It’s not uncommon for brides and grooms to wear boots specially made for their wedding day. Despite the more laid-back nature of Western weddings, celebrations of this style often lend themselves to unique touches not offered just anywhere, Fischer said. At Old West Buffalo Co., couples can hire a real cowboy and his horse to help park cars, be whisked away in a horse-drawn carriage for their grand exit or have animals be part of their wedding ceremony. If you want to have the ceremony outside, we can have our bison be right behind the wedding party or even on the side as guests — we always say they’re the perfect wedding guests because they just hang out and never ruin the party,” Fischer said. Some Western wedding venues like Tatanka Ranch have much more space and lodging options than the average venue you might find in a city, which is appealing for couples who have 62 Tulsa World Magazine

COURTESY, TATANKA RANCH, BY KARA CHEEK‌

String lights hang over the ceremony area at a Western wedding at Tatanka Ranch.

COURTESY, TATANKA RANCH, BY KARA CHEEK‌

Many couples opt to celebrate their wedding in a traditional Western barn, said Ally Grill, ranch manager at Tatanka Ranch.

invited many out-of-town guests or want to have a multiple-day celebration, Grill said. When you book with us, you’re able to get the whole ranch for the whole weekend,” Grill said. “We have indoor and outdoor venues, catering on-site, a lake with canoes and kayaks and horseback riding — but our greatest advantage is that we have 20 cabins that can sleep 80 people for the weekend. It’s helpful because when you get married, you might not be able to see or talk to

everyone in one night. It’s huge to be able to spend that time with your family, because it’s really the only time you get everyone in one place at one time.” Western weddings are truly for everyone and not just people who live in the country, Fischer said. They’re not just for cowboys and people who live on ranches,” Fischer said. “They’re for people whose idea of a wedding is a lot more relaxed, who want to have it in a fun setting in the heart of cowboy country.” TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

Discoveryland reimagined as wedding venue New Discoveryland offers ‘Oklahoma!’-style weddings

Sharon Bishop-Baldwin // Tulsa World Magazine‌

he story of “Oklahoma!” the musical, based on Lynn Riggs’ 1931 play “Green Grow the Lilacs,” is pretty familiar to most people who’ve spent much time in Oklahoma the state. Two parties, Laurey and Curly, have been sweet on each other for a good while, and then the romance begins to cool a bit. Then there’s some drama for good measure. But just when it looks like all hope is lost, love comes roaring back to win the day. In a kind of poetic symmetry, it seems

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that a similar turn of fortune is playing out for Discoveryland — the Sand Springs venue that once was known as “The National Outdoor Home for Rodgers and Hammerstein’s ‘Oklahoma!’” For 36 years beginning in the mid-1970s, audiences from across the world came to Discoveryland’s outdoor amphitheater to be transported back to an Oklahoma just before statehood to watch the love of the farm girl and the cowboy triumph over evil — or at least as close to evil as rural Claremore could muster 116 years ago.

STEPHEN PINGRY, TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE‌

Jason and Kayla Shipman bought the property that formerly housed the Discoveryland outdoor amphitheater in 2019.

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The newly opened Discoveryland Ranch offers a 5,000-square-foot event center and a host of other amenities for weddings, private parties or corporate events.

And they did so in that uniquely Oklahoma environment, where the bugs in the trees sometimes sang as loud as the performers on stage and where the scorching summer sun that melted the traditional Discoveryland ice cream sundaes at 5 p.m. had cooled to a manageably warm summer evening by showtime at 8. But alas, the love affair cooled. Audiences began to dwindle. The last performance came in 2011, a year of record-setting heat across the Sooner State that made outdoor events of any kind insufferable. “The last show was kind of in the middle of the summer,” said Jason Shipman, who, with his wife, Kayla Shipman, now owns the renamed Discoveryland Ranch property. “The weather was blazing hot, and attendance was way down. “Financially, they had been struggling for quite a while, and that was just kind of the nail in the coffin,” he said. Like the musical, the Shipmans believe Discoveryland Ranch will have a storybook ending. The couple bought the property in late 2019 and they are now operating it as a wedding, event and entertainment venue 5 miles west of Oklahoma 97 on 41st Street. “It was in a terrible state of disrepair,” Jason Shipman said. “We hauled off 25 dump-truck loads of trash.” Of the 525 total acres, only 35 to 40 acres have been developed so far, he said. “We’re restoring the amphitheater and picnic pavilion,” he said. “There’s still a lot of work to do in the amphitheater.” An event center is just under 5,000 square feet. Shipman said they’ve booked about 10 or so weddings for this year, “and the rental fee gives complete use of any 64 Tulsa World Magazine

STEPHEN PINGRY PHOTOS, TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE‌

Although the former Discoveryland has gone through some changes in becoming Discoveryland Ranch, the outdoor amphitheater is probably one of the most recognizable areas to guests who once attended a production of “Oklahoma!” there.

of the facilities we have,” including the new timber-frame pavilion. “It’s very photogenic, and there’s lots of space to spread out,” he said. Shipman, who grew up in Prattville, owns Riverwood Custom Homes. Kayla Shipman is a veterinarian at McKinney Animal Hospital in Sand Springs. But the Discoveryland venture is an entirely joint project for the couple, who have been married for 22 years. “My wife’s a good dreamer, and I’m a ‘make-it-happen’ kind of guy,” Jason Shipman said. Although the couple have been booking quite a few weddings and corporate or private events, reimagining the site as an entertainment venue isn’t off the table, either, he said. “We’ve been hit up by several concert promoters, and that could be a good thing, but we’re going to go slowly because we want to do it right,” Shipman said. “We get asked just about daily about ‘Oklahoma!’ We’re going to pursue everything we can to make something happen. It won’t be a full summer, but maybe we can do something.” Whatever they do, though, they’re looking for happy endings. “We’re heavily invested in the Sand Springs community,” Shipman said, “so we wanted to make this something to be proud of.”

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Flavors of Deliciousness! www.okiegirlfudge.com www.facebook.com/okiegirlfudge TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

CLASSIC CAST IRON Sturdy skillets heavy on family history, benefits Story and photos by Judy Allen // For Tulsa World Magazine ‌

have a modest collection of cast-iron cookware, and I’m happy to say I haven’t paid for any of it. I have inherited all of my well-worn skillets from my grandmothers and a hefty cast iron lidded Dutch oven from my motherin-law. I’ve also made off with a few pans from my mom, whether she knows it or not. There is no better gift to receive than a well-seasoned piece of cooking history. I can only imagine the meals my skillets produced in their past lives. Countless batches of fried chicken went down in my paternal Grandmother Louise’s kitchen in Jackson, Mississippi. My mother’s mother, Jessie, made almost everything in her cast-iron skillets, even in the Florida heat. These days, however, cast iron can sometimes get a bad rap. It’s heavy to deal with and demands occasional care. Cast iron pans are versatile and relatively inexpensive — you can score a brand-new Lodge skillet for less than $30, while an equivalent size in stainless steel can run upwards of $150. Scan local estate and garage sales for well-worn (and often well-seasoned) pans for even less money. Cast iron is a great conductor of heat, meaning it holds the temperature well, allowing for a nice sear and a natural nonstick ability if your pan is seasoned well. Could these recipes be made in other pans? Indeed, but the outcome may not be as impressive. Chuckwagons were the first food trucks, using cowboy cooking to bring food to workers on the move. These recipes may be inspired by cast iron ranch cooking, but they can all be made in any home kitchen, no chuckwagon required. Cast iron is durable enough to be handed down for generations. JUDY ALLEN, FOR TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE‌

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PERFECT PAN-SEARED STEAK‌ Serves 2 to 4

Follow these few simple rules to end up with a spectacular steakhouse ribeye in your own home: Leave the steaks out at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before cooking, which allows the thick steaks to cook more evenly. Let the steak have a good rest (5 to 10 minutes) before slicing—this gives the juices a chance to settle among the steak. 1 1½- to 2-inch-thick rib eye or T-bone steak Vegetable oil Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature Few sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary, optional 1. Pat steak dry with paper towels, coat lightly with oil, then season the steak very generously with salt and pepper. 2. Heat a thin layer of vegetable oil in a cast iron skillet over high heat until the oil starts to smoke. Add steak to the hot skillet and cook until a brown crust begins to form on the underside of the steak, about 1 minute. Flip the steak over and cook 1 minute more. Continue flipping every 30 seconds until a nice crust forms, about 4 minutes. 3. Add butter and herbs (if using) to the skillet and continue to cook, basting the steak with the pan juices and flipping the steak often until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the steak registers 120° to 125°F for medium-rare or 130°F for medium. Steak should be medium rare at this time — continue to cook a minute more on each side for medium. 4. Transfer steak to a plate or cutting board and pour pan juices over. Allow the steak to rest for at least 5 minutes before serving or slicing.

Don’t be afraid of high heat, especially when using a cast iron skillet — a good sear gives the steak a caramelized surface and rich flavor.

MOUNTAIN MAN BREAKFAST‌ Servings 4 to 6

Traditionally, this recipe is made in a large, deep cast iron pot that hangs over the campfire. 8 ounces bacon, cut into bite-sized pieces 8 ounces ground breakfast pork sausage 16 ounces frozen hash browns, thawed 1 white onion, diced 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced 1 can chopped green chile Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper ½ cup shredded pepper jack cheese ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese 10 eggs divided Heat oven to 350°.

The Mountain Man skillet meal is perfect for a big breakfast crowd. 66 Tulsa World Magazine

1. Heat a 10-inch or 12-inch cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bacon and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned, about 6 minutes, stirring occasionally. Transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, leaving a little bacon grease in the pan, and reserving the rest in a small bowl.

2. Crumble in the sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, until it begins to brown, about 3 minutes. Stir in the onion, bell pepper and green chile and continue to cook until the peppers and onions are tender, about 5 minutes. Season the mixture well with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper and transfer to a bowl. 3. Add 2 tablespoons of the reserved bacon grease to the empty skillet. Add the hash browns and cook, tossing them occasionally until they start to brown. Turn off the heat and scatter the potatoes into a single layer. Stir the crisped bacon into the sausage mixture and scatter the mixture into a layer over the potatoes. Whisk 6 of the eggs in a bowl with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper until smooth, then stir in half of the cheese. Pour evenly over the sausage mixture. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top. Bake until the egg mixture sets up, 30 to 40 minutes. Crack the remaining eggs over the top and bake until the whites are set, 8 to 10 minutes. Serve warm.

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GRILLED PEACH COBBLER‌ Serves 8 to 10

Take advantage of a hot grill to cook your dessert outside. Swap the peaches for berries in season or for apples or pears in the fall. 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small cubes, plus more for skillet 7 cups peeled and sliced peaches (or two 20-ounce bags of frozen sliced peaches, thawed and drained) ½ cup granulated sugar

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon ¼ teaspoon ground cloves ¼ teaspoon kosher salt Generous pinch ground nutmeg

BISCUIT TOPPING‌ 1 cup all-purpose flour ¼ cup granulated sugar 1½ teaspoons baking powder

½ cup heavy cream ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted Pinch of salt

1. Preheat a grill to medium-high (350˚ to 400˚) or heat an oven to 375°. Butter a 10-inch or 12-inch cast iron skillet. 2. Add peach slices to a large bowl along with the sugar, flour, cinnamon, cloves, salt and nutmeg. Stir to combine until everything is coated evenly. Transfer the mixture to a buttered 10-inch or 12-inch cast iron skillet and scatter the butter cubes over the top. Cover with aluminum foil. Place skillet on the grill, cover and cook until bubbling and hot, about 15 minutes. 3. While the peaches are cooking, make the biscuit topping. Add flour, sugar, and baking powder to a medium bowl and whisk with a fork until combined. Make a well in the center and add the cream and melted butter. Stir until the mixture comes together. 4. Remove the foil from the skillet of peaches and dollop the biscuit mixture over the top. Discard the foil and cover the grill. Cook until the biscuits are golden brown, about 15 minutes. Remove the skillet from the grill and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. *Adapted from Southern Living

Cobbler is an ideal candidate for the grill and is easy to prepare if you have a large cast iron skillet.

Tips and tricks for caring for cast-iron cookware

To clean your pan initially before its first use, dump in ½ cup kosher salt and scour it with a wet cloth — this will help remove the factory coating. Wash well with soap and water and dry thoroughly. NEVER put your pan in the dishwasher!

Seasoning a cast iron pan is essential, for it creates a valuable nonstick cooking surface. To season your cast iron cookware, follow these three simple steps: Wipe a thin layer of vegetable oil on all the pan surfaces, including the sides, handle, lid, etc. Place in a 400° oven for 1 hour; then let cool in the oven. Repeat this process three to four times until your pan appears to have a good sheen on the surface. Unless the pan is super dirty, don’t scrub the good seasoning away with soap. To clean your cast iron cookware, scrape off any stuck-on food, rinse and dry.

To prevent rust from forming, dry pans thoroughly before putting them away. I heat mine over a gas burner until it is dry, but you could also put them in a hot oven for a few minutes. While the pan is still warm, rub on a very light coating of vegetable oil with a paper towel or cloth.

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ASK THE EXPERT

DALLAS WEST

MARKETING STRATEGIST Tulsa World Media Company

Email us your questions at expert@tulsaworld.com, and our expert will answer on our Tulsa World Scene Facebook page!

Creativity connects people in fun and meaningful ways Marketing expert delivers audiences for OSU’s OLLI

onnecting with people matters, and together, people can do something that makes a difference. When Dallas West, marketing strategist for the Tulsa World Media Company, found out how Oklahoma State University’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) program offered active senior adults a creative social outlet, she reached out to find out more. “It took a couple of tries in the beginning to actually connect with Robbin Davis, Director of the OLLI program,” West said. “At first she got sick, and then I got sick. Through it all, we both stayed in communication with each other and eventually had the opportunity to see if we were a good fit to work together.” It became clear very quickly that the two hit it off, Davis said. “Dallas has been a dream to work with,” she said. “When someone knows her stuff, you are just drawn to those people. She was interested in who we are, what we wanted to accomplish, who we wanted to reach and provided ideas on how to do that effectively with the budget we have.” The OLLI program offers opportunities to active senior adults who want to get out of the house, engage with people, and make new friends, Davis said. “We talked about who her typical student is and how the OLLI program provides educational and hands-on classes that provide social interaction opportunities multiple times a year,” West said. “I knew we could reach those audiences in creative, meaningful ways. We have grown so much as a company and now offer more online opportunities to connect than ever before through our Tulsa World Media Company’s full-service Premier Google Partnered digital agency – Amplified Digital. We can find the right solution for any company!” With a history of working with the Tulsa World while at different companies and in different capacities over the years, Davis knew the reputation first hand. “For me, advertising or editorial, Tulsa World is my go-to,” Davis said. “So when the time came to discuss

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dollars, I was very transparent about our modest budget because I didn’t want to waste any time on expectations. Dallas was not only enthusiastic, but built a campaign that meets our goals.” After learning how Davis was currently advertising, there were several additional strategic marketing options both in print and online that the Tulsa World could provide that fit well in her budget as well as effectively reach and grow her audience, West said. “That’s not all Dallas learned,” said Davis. “We like to have fun! She also found out that in the past I’ve had tiaras in my office, but I didn’t have one yet in this new office. Dallas actually sent one to me!” For people 50 years or older, OLLI offers classes from eight weeks to single sessions in multiple cities like Tulsa, Bartlesville, Oklahoma City and more. In addition to a wide range of educational and humanities class topics to choose from and creative courses such as painting and pottery, there are opportunities to take trips together. Trips range from within the city where you live, visiting nearby cities, and sometimes even venturing out of state. “In each market we offer our programs in, we partner with venues that offer education spaces,” Davis said. “Here in Tulsa, we partner with Zarrow Point and Montereau. We are a member-based program and look to grow our membership. The fall session begins September 19 and enrollment begins in mid-August.” OSU began the OLLI program in 2006 with the support of the Osher Foundation. For more information on the OLLI program and how to get involved visit olli.okstate.edu. “To help our clients achieve and surpass their goals, it all starts with making a connection and starting a conversation,” Dallas said. “By being respectful, open and honest, Robbin and I have learned a lot about each other and together we’ve developed a campaign that reaches its intended audience and is meaningful.” For more information, contact Dallas West at dallas.west@tulsaworld.com or call 918.530.1523. TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

Grigsby’s now offers more options for indoor and outdoor living spaces Adding quartz countertops make home improvement choices easier

rigsby’s Carpet, Tile & Hardwood has added a new option to their showroom. “We recently have added the ability to provide people with quartz countertops,” said Penny Carnino, director of operations. A local fabricator will go out to your location to measure, and Grigsby’s is involved every step from start to finish. “It just makes it so much easier for someone when they’re redoing their kitchen or bathroom, if they can go to one place and put everything together rather than get a chip of granite or quartz somewhere else and ‘oh, I’ve got to go back to this place to match this and try to match that,’” Carnino said. “It makes it much easier for the consumer.” Carnino added that quartz and granite have both been extremely popular. “Some people like the look of quartz better. They are both a solid surface product. They resist stains. They don’t absorb. Real marble absorbs everything. That’s one of the reasons that people go to quartz and granite,” she said.

“It just makes it easier for the consumer that wants to come into the store and have the ability to get their countertops, their kitchen tile, backsplash all in one place,” Carnino said. Carnino has seen recent trends as more people are extending their indoor living spaces outside. “Outdoor spaces have just become more and more important, especially as people have stayed home, and you just want to continue that living space outdoors,” she said. She’s seen the trend of decks, but with all of the covered patios, Carnino said that porcelain TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

tile would be applicable. “They can use it over concrete. People have been redoing their outdoor grill countertops. Using quartz or porcelain tile would be good choices.” Porcelain tile lasts for many years, she said. “Tile doesn’t wear out.” “Some people use stone on a fireplace outdoors, but depending on the look you want, if you want it to look more modern, then you can use tile.” Then as the patio extends to the pool area, pavers are an option. “People do porcelain tile outside under a covered area. They also do pavers. Pavers are a thicker product and a better choice for an uncovered area,” Carnino said. Carnino offers these tips for anyone wanting to update their outdoor living space. 1. Start looking. Go to the Grigsby’s showroom to get ideas and consult with an expert. 2. Use porcelain. 3. Don’t wait. Price increases are likely in the future. “If those are things you’re really set on doing right now, I wouldn’t put it off,” she added. She said it was Grigsby’s thoughts to help customers streamline the process of updating spaces to avoid the back and forth. “It just makes it easier for the consumer that wants to come into the store and have the ability to get their countertops, their kitchen tile, backsplash all in one place.” The industry has still been busy, she said. The good news is, back orders are better than they were, but can certainly still be an issue. Planning accordingly certainly can make it easier when making these kinds of home improvements. “It’s a great time of the year and people are all ready to get outside,” she said. For more information or to set up a free estimate, visit Grigsby’s showroom located at 4417 S. Sheridan Rd., go online at grigsbys.com or call 918-627-6996.

ASK THE EXPERT PENNY CARNINO Director of Operations Grigsby’s Carpet, Tile & Hardwood

Email us your questions at expert@ tulsaworld.com, and our expert will answer on our Tulsa World Scene Facebook page!

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ASK THE EXPERT JURNY VICARS, BUDTENDER Mango Cannabis

Email us your questions at expert@ tulsaworld.com, and our expert will answer on our Tulsa World Scene Facebook page!

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Get outside and elevate your outdoor experience Expert explains benefits of fun, summer treats

t’s summer - the perfect time to get outside and enjoy spending time with friends. Whether you are headed to a park for a picnic, the woods to go camping, poolside for a swim party, or outdoors to play your favorite sport – there are several ways cannabis can elevate your outdoor experience. If refreshment is what you desire, there are frozen treats to consider! “Some of our most popular summertime refreshments are our pre-made infused root beer floats, ice cream and cookie dough,” Jurny Vicars, budtender at Mango Cannabis, said. “We have all kinds of infused drinks and even juices. Whether you are interested in already infused products or prefer to infuse the products yourself, we certainly have options.” Mango Cannabis carries CBD oil which can be manually infused on a variety of foods to best fit your lifestyle. For example, infused agave syrup can be added to slushies, snow cones, margaritas or it can even be baked with, he said. “One of my favorite cool refreshments is a blueberry lemonade juice, but we have a lot of popular drinks like a half tea and half lemonade that works great after activities or even just with friends at the pool,” Vicars said. “Due to their popularity, you can now get these drinks in single cans – perfect for the cooler!” There are many options if you’d prefer to add cannabis to your food and drink yourself. “We have already activated cannabis oil that can easily be added to any type of food or drink,” Vicars said. “My favorite is to add it to cinnamon and applesauce.” For the adventurer who likes to go camping, we offer flavored concentrates or vape cartridges that are lightweight, small and easy to carry, he said.

“There is no smell and it’s very discreet,” said Vicars. Mango Cannabis offers no shortage of flavors – from citrus, peppery, earthy to sweet – there are a lot of flavor choices as well as consistency levels to select. For medicinal purposes, smoking the terpenes and cannabinoids is easier to absorb in your system. Edibles – like gummies and tablets - are another easy, transportable way to elevate your activities. “Some of our most popular summertime refreshments are our pre-made infused root beer floats, ice cream and cookie dough,” Vicars said. “Whether you are an active sports enthusiast or a laid back fisherman like me, really you name it, cannabis edibles are easy to carry and can help you achieve the benefits you are looking for,” he said. “Whether you want to be more energetic or simply relax, our team can be very helpful and informative.” Regardless of your level of activity, you might even be looking for ways to recover from dehydration or muscle soreness. “You’d be surprised how cannabis can help in these areas, and our team of experts can help direct you to what will give you the desired result,” Vicars said. Mango Cannabis medicinal treatments can ease overall pain, joint pain, arthritis pain, and muscle soreness as well as help with recovery management. “We can help you find things that are vegan, sugar-free or gluten-free,” he said. Make sure to tell staff how you’d like to elevate your summer and what options would be best for you, especially, if you have any dietary restrictions or dietary preferences.

For more information visit mangocannabis.com or call 918-940-3525. TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

wish you were here... 7141 S. MINGO RD TULSA OKLAHOMA

918-940-3525 MANGOCANNABIS.COM

THE MOMENT

Grand old flag IAN MAULE // Tulsa World Magazine

With the Fourth of July just around the corner, this image of kids raising a giant American flag before a Tulsa Drillers baseball game at ONEOK Field sets the perfect tone. Here’s what Tulsa World staff photographer Ian Maule was thinking when he caught the shot: “I wanted something that had the broad appeal of Opening Day with a tie to Tulsa. I noticed this youth baseball team’s Tulsa flag uniform and was hoping the image would be an easy read. It’s always nice to see the things you hope for line up in real life.”

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TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE FILE‌

A water buffalo roams about the grounds of Woolaroc Museum and Wildlife Preserve.

honoring

history Oklahoma museums celebrate American West, Native heritages

James D. Watts Jr. // Tulsa World Magazine‌

ince 1949, when it first opened to the public, Tulsa’s Gilcrease Museum has been the starting point for anyone interested in the art and history of the North American continent, from pre-Columbus times up to the early 20th century. However, it’s going to be a couple of years at least before Gilcrease is ready to welcome visitors to its new

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museum, which is to be built on the site of the original facility that Tulsa oilman and art collector Thomas Gilcrease established northwest of Tulsa’s downtown. Yet, Oklahoma is home to a number of other museums that celebrate aspects of the state’s Western heritage. Here are some to check out on your summer travels.

TOM GILBERT, TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE‌

The Woolaroc airplane owned Frank Phillips sits inside the museum at Woolaroc Ranch, Museum and Wildlife Preserve.

Woolaroc Ranch, Museum and Wildlife Preserve ‌

1925 Woolaroc Ranch Road, Bartlesville 918-336-0307, woolaroc.org Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday (through Labor Day) Woolaroc started out not as a place, but an airplane — a small, single-engine monoplane. Oklahoma oilman Frank Phillips, who sponsored the plane in a race from California to Hawaii, constructed a pavilion near the ranch he had established as his refuge from the rigors of business. Over the years, the facility kept growing, until it became what it is today — the centerpiece of an

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array of art and artifacts of the American West, American Indian materials representing some 40 tribes and nations, and one of the finest collections of Colt firearms in the world. The wildlife preserve also gives visitors the chance to see more than 30 types of animals and birds, from deer and bison to water buffalo and pygmy goats.

First Americans Museum‌

659 First Americans Blvd., Oklahoma City 405-594-2100, famok.org Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday, WednesdayFriday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday Some 30 years in the making, the recently opened First Americans Museum is a 175,000-square-foot facility that offers a multimedia, immersive glimpse into the unique cultures, diversity, history, contributions and resilience of the First American Nations in Oklahoma today. Hardly an element of the museum’s design or content is not without some greater significance, from the physical orientation of the facility to the 110-foot Hall of the People, the iconic glass structure inspired by grass houses built by the Wichita and Affiliated people. One can experience animated videos recounting creation stories for various tribes in the Origins Theater, then follow the exhibits and installations in the Tribal Nations Gallery that sketch the history of the 39 tribes and nations to which Oklahoma has always been, or has become, home. The museum includes an expansive store that features artwork, jewelry, clothing, literature and unique, commissioned work from artists who are members of the 39 tribes; the “Five Moons Theater”; and a fine-dining restaurant, Thirty Nine, featuring a menu inspired by Native cuisine.

STEPHEN PINGRY, TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE‌

The First Americans Museum is a 175,000-square-foot facility in Oklahoma City.

Ben Johnson Cowboy Museum‌

201 E. Sixth St., Pawhuska 918-429-6349, benjohnsoncowboymuseum.com Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday The key word in this museum’s name is “Cowboy.” Although the Oscar-winning actor is certainly the draw, the focus of this venue is Osage’s County rich cowboy — and cowgirl — heritage. Johnson himself was a champion cowboy before beginning his career as an actor that included roles in “The Wild Bunch” and “The Last Picture Show.” His father, Ben Sr., also was a rodeo champion. But Osage County has produced champions in just about every type of equine sport, including polo and horse racing, as well as the person credited with inventing the modern horse trailer. These accomplishments, along with the works of Western artists and craftsmen, are honored here.

Five Civilized Tribes Museum‌

1101 Honor Heights Drive, Muskogee 918-683-1701, fivetribes.org Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.2 p.m. Saturday Established in 1966, this museum is itself housed

TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

IAN MAULE, TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE‌

An opening-night visitor examines displays inside the Ben Johnson Cowboy Museum in Pawhuska. within a piece of history. The building was originally the Union Indian Agency Building, which was constructed in 1875 to serve as the headquarters for the government superintendent overseeing the five Indigenous nations that were once called “the Five Civilized Tribes” — Cherokee, Muscogee, Chickasaw, Seminole and Choctaw. Today, it houses a unique collection of art and

artifacts from these five nations, that give a sense of the history and diverse cultures of these peoples. The museum also hosts an annual Masters Art Show, featuring works by the finest artists of the five nations. Its permanent collection is made up of numerous examples of works from this exhibit by artists such as Jerome Tiger, Fred Beaver, Joan Hill and Solomon McCombs.

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COURTESY, NATIONAL COWBOY & WESTERN HERITAGE MUSEUM‌

Oklahoma’s long history of rodeo cowboys and champions is the subject of one of the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum’s permanent exhibits.

National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum‌

1700 NE 63rd St., Oklahoma City 405-478-2250, nationalcowboymuseum.org Hours: 10 a.m. 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday; noon5 p.m. Sunday. The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum is home to an impressive array of art and artifacts, ranging from collections of barbed wire (an integral part of taming the “Wild West”) and firearms, to works by such noted painters as Charles M. Russell and Frederic Remington, from everyday and ceremonial items by American Indian artisans to the iconic, 18-foot-tall sculpture, “End of the Trail” by James Earle Fraser. The Hollywood version of the “Old West” is also well-represented in the “Western Performers” gallery, with memorabilia from classic and contemporary cowboy films. Youngsters can also enjoy “Liichokoshkomo,” a 100,000-squarefoot outdoor area that offers a range of interactive, hands-on activities. The museum’s main summer event is the Prix de West, considered the one of the nation’s premier showcases for Western art. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the event, with close to 100 artists from around the world exhibiting paintings and sculptures. The show will be on display through Aug. 2. 76 Tulsa World Magazine

Cherokee National History Museum‌

101 S. Muskogee Ave, Tahlequah 877-779-6977, visitcherokeenation.com Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday As the Cherokee Heritage Center is currently closed to the public, this is the main venue to begin exploring the history and culture of the Cherokee Nation. Located in the original Cherokee National Capitol building, its 7,000 square feet holds a carefully curated collection of art and artifacts. In addition, the museum offers an array of hands-on exhibits and state-of-the-art multimedia displays that allow visitors to experience the Cherokee story in greater detail, from the journey along the Trail of Tears that brought the nation to what is now Oklahoma to the creation of the Cherokee Syllabary, to how the Cherokee Nation is working to maintain its heritage in the modern world.

Will Rogers Memorial Museum and Will Rogers Birthplace Ranch‌

Museum: 1720 W. Will Rogers Blvd., Claremore; 918-343-8113 Ranch: 9501 E. 380 Road, Oologah; 918-341-0719

MIKE SIMONS, TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE FILE‌

The room where Will Rogers was born is shown in the Will Rogers Birthplace Museum in Oologah. A transfer ceremony was held at the museum to formalize the Cherokee Nation’s acquisition of the museum from the Oklahoma Historical Society. Hours for both: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday-Saturday For more: willrogers.com Perhaps it is only fitting that the man known as “Oklahoma’s favorite son,” who in his life was one of most famous people in the world, requires two venues to celebrate his life and accomplishments. TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

visit one of oklahoma's top attractions!

World-Class Museum Historic Lodge Home Walking Trails Mountain Man Camp Welcome Center & Cafe

Animal Barn and Playground Bison, Elk, Deer, Zebra, Water Buffalo, and More Facilities for Weddings, Parties, and Corporate Events

1925 Woolaroc Ranch Road | Bartlesville, OK 74003 | woolaroc.org | Regular Hours: 10 AM – 5 PM, Wednesday thru Sunday. Closed Monday & Tuesday Summer Schedule: Memorial Day to Labor Day. Open Tuesday thru Sunday. Closed Monday Admission: Ages 13–64, $14 Seniors 65 & older, $12 Children 12 & under, Free

TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE FILE‌

Native American art is on display at the Osage Nation Museum in Pawhuska. The Will Rogers Birthplace Ranch, also known as the Dog Iron Ranch, is set on 400 acres, and the house that was Rogers’ boyhood home re-creates how life was in the late 1800s on the Western frontier. This also is the place where Rogers developed his abilities with a rope — at first to handle the livestock on the ranch, then as an amusement that would start him in show business. The Will Rogers Memorial Museum tells the whole story of Rogers’ life, as a newspaper columnist whose homespun wit and wisdom could cut through the blather of politics; as a film star who appeared in more than 70 films and became the highest-paid actor at the time; as a public speaker and humanitarian; up to his tragic death in a plane crash in Alaska in 1935.

Osage Nation Museum‌

819 Grandview Ave., Pawhuska 918-287-5441, osageculture.com Hours: 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday The book “Killers of the Flower Moon” and its forthcoming film adaptation that was shot primarily in Osage County has kindled new interest in the history of this nation. Ironically, the Osage Nation Museum is actually the oldest tribally governed museum in the United States, opening to the public in 1938. The museum’s founding is attributed to the efforts of writer and Osage Tribal Councilman John Joseph Mathews to create a central repository for the art, artifacts, material culture and other resource material related to the history of the Osage. The foundation of its collection is from John L. Bird, who had begun collecting Osage material in the late 1880s. But the museum regularly features exhibits by contemporary artists, who are finding

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new ways to show how the Osage history and culture is being carried into the 21st century.

Tom Mix Museum & Western Theater‌

721 N. Delaware St., Dewey 918-534-1555, tommixmuseum.com Hours: 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday For years, Dewey’s greatest claim to fame has been Tom Mix, the one-time town marshal who became one of the most popular entertainers in the country, as a star of Western movies and as a Wild West circus performer. The museum itself dates back to the 1960s, when a group of local businessmen worked to bring a collection of Tom Mix memorabilia to Dewey. The collection includes hundreds of objects from Mix’s personal collection — photographs, movie posters, advertisements, books — as well as clothing, saddles, guns, and other items that Mix personally used throughout his life, and copies of some of the movies Mix made that have survived.

Gene Autry Oklahoma Museum‌

47 Prairie St., Gene Autry 580-294-3276, geneautryoklamuseum.org Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Thursday—Saturday Gene Autry never lived in Berwyn, Oklahoma, the tiny town northeast of Ardmore that now bears his name. But he considered buying a ranch in that vicinity in the early 1940s, and in honor of having the country’s “Singing Cowboy” as a neighbor, the town changed its name of Gene Autry. The Gene Autry Oklahoma Museum is both a

JIMMIE TRAMEL, TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE FILE‌

Welcome to Gene Autry, Oklahoma, a town formerly known as Berwyn. A museum in the Carter County town will get you up to speed on the history of Gene Autry — the town and the person. tribute to Autry’s career as an entertainer and to the history of this area of Oklahoma. It claims to have the largest collection of memorabilia from cowboys in entertainment in the world, with a focus on Autry, whose 90 films made him one of the highest paid actors in Hollywood in the 1930s and ‘40s, and whose music career is considered a cornerstone of modern country music.

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TUESDAY, AUGUST 2, 2022 JOIN US IN CELEBRATING STAR ATHLETES OF THE YEAR

2022 Keynote Speaker

ROD THOMPSON

TO PURCHASE TICKETS OR FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT

ALLWORLDAWARDS.COM SPONSORED BY:

#allworld2022

LET’S GO.

JULY‌

> NOW THROUGH 7/31, THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC PHOTO ARK The National Geographic Photo Ark at Gathering Place is a celebration of Oklahoma’s native and migratory species, showcasing more than 35 images of animals local to the region, including the spoonbill paddlefish, scissor-tailed flycatcher, monarch butterflies and the American bison. Admission is free. WHERE: ONEOK Boathouse, Gathering Place, near 31st and Riverside Drive FOR MORE: gatheringplace.org > 7/2, ARTS, CRAFTS, MUSIC CAJUN FESTIVAL Jana Jae, Grove’s queen of country fiddle, hosts this authentic Cajun food and music event. WHERE: Grove Civic Center, 1720 S. Main St., Grove FOR MORE: grandlakefestivals.com/cajun > 7/2-3, JAY HUCKLEBERRY FESTIVAL For the 55th annual festival, attendees can enjoy arts, crafts, food and more. WHERE: Jay Community Center FOR MORE: jaychamber.com > 7/3, FOURTH ON THE THIRD The Signature Symphony at Tulsa Community College presents its annual patriotic concert in an outdoor setting. WHERE: TCC Southeast Campus FOR MORE: signaturesymphony.org

STEPHEN PINGRY, TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE‌

The National Geographic Photo Ark at Gathering Place is a celebration of Oklahoma’s native and migratory species.

> 7/4, FOLDS OF HONOR FREEDOMFEST Features live music, inflatables, family picnics and fireworks along the Arkansas River. WHERE: Fireworks are shot from the 21st Street Bridge FOR MORE: freedomfesttulsa.com > 7/6-9/11, “FRIDA KAHLO, DIEGO RIVERA AND MEXICAN MODERNISM” This exhibition features paintings, drawings and collages by the iconic artists along with more than 100 photographs of their lives. WHERE: Philbrook Museum of Art FOR MORE: philbrook.org > 7/9, MACHINE GUN KELLY Machine Gun Kelly is bringing the Mainstream Sellout Tour to the BOK Center with special guests Avril Lavigne and WILLOW. WHERE: BOK Center, 200 S. Denver Ave. FOR MORE: bokcenter.com > 7/10, DUDE PERFECT The popular YouTubers bring their That’s Happy 2022 Summer Tour to the BOK Center. WHERE: BOK Center, 200 S. Denver Ave. FOR MORE: bokcenter.com

TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE FILE‌

Fireworks light up the night sky at the Folds of Honor FreedomFest at River West Festival Park. 80 Tulsa World Magazine

> 7/13-17, WOODYFEST The 25th annual Woody Guthrie Folk Festival will pay tribute to Woody Guthrie through songs, communion, scholarship, tradition, storytelling and songwriting. The Woody Guthrie Coalition and the festival will welcome members of the Guthrie family,

TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

IAN MAULE, TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE FILE‌

Philbrook Museum will present “Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera and Mexican Modernism,” which opens July 6. Museum President and CEO Scott Stulen announced the exhibit’s arrival last September. renowned singer-songwriters and returning performers for the celebration of the late folk singer’s life and legacy. WHERE: Okemah FOR MORE: woodyfest.com > 7/14-16, PORTER PEACH FESTIVAL The Porter Peach Festival celebrates 56 years. There will be a 5K run and, of course, peaches. WHERE: Porter MORE: Porter Peach Festival Facebook page > 7/15-17, AN AFFAIR OF THE HEART Braum’s An Affair of the Heart brings a threeday unique shopping experience to Tulsa’s Expo Square. Browse handmade goods, gourmet food, clothing, furniture and more. WHERE: Expo Square, 4145 E. 21st St. FOR MORE: aaoth.com > 7/15-17, JUST BETWEEN FRIENDS Just Between Friends is one of the country’s leading children’s and maternity consignment events. WHERE: Rhema Rec Center, 1421 W. Kenosha, Broken Arrow FOR MORE: jbfsale.com > 7/19-24, “ANASTASIA” Based on the 1997 animated film of the same name, the musical adapts the legend of Grand Duchess Anastasia Nikolaevna of Russia, as a brave young woman sets out to discover the

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The Porter Peach Festival celebrates 56 years. There will be a 5k run and, of course, peaches. mystery of her past. WHERE: Tulsa PAC, 101 E. Third St. FOR MORE: tulsapac.com > 7/29-30, HERITAGE FEST The Miami OK Route 66 Heritage Fest is back for its second year. The event features live music, a car and motorcycle show, a regional poker run, food trucks and a beer garden. WHERE: Downtown Miami

MORE: Miami—Oklahoma Route 66 Heritage Fest Facebook page > 7/30, DODGEBRAWL This one-day dodgeball tournament allows teams to play for a nonprofit of their choice. New this year, players can compete for a cash prize is available. WHERE: BOK Center, 200 S. Denver Ave. FOR MORE: bokcenter.com

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TULSA WORLD FILE‌

OneRepublic plays at the BOK Center on Aug. 10.

AUGUST > 8/6, JASON ALDEAN Country music star Jason Aldean brings his Rock N’ Roll Cowboy Tour to Tulsa with special guests Gabby Barrett and John Morgan. WHERE: BOK Center, 200 S. Denver Ave. FOR MORE: bokcenter.com > 8/6-7, TULSA POWWOW The 70th annual event will include arts and crafts, food, and, of course, the dance contests. WHERE: Cox Business Center, 100 Civic Center FOR MORE: facebook.com/tulsa.powwow > 8/10, ONEREPUBLIC Tulsa native Ryan Tedder and band OneRepublic bring the Never Ending Summer Tour to Tulsa. NEEDTOBREATHE will be a special guest. WHERE: BOK Center, 200 S. Denver Ave. FOR MORE: bokcenter.com TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE FILE‌

> 8/11-14, JUST BETWEEN FRIENDS Just Between Friends is one of the country’s leading children’s and maternity consignment events. WHERE: Woodland Hills Mall, former Sears location, lower level, 6929 S. Memorial Drive FOR MORE: jbfsale.com

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The 70th annual Tulsa Powwow is in August. > 8/12-13, WOODCARVING AND ARTS FESTIVAL This event presented by the Eastern Oklahoma Woodcarvers Association will feature woodcarving, wood turning, weaving, stained glass, blacksmithing, quilting and more. WHERE: Central Park Community Center, 1500 S. Main St., Broken Arrow

FOR MORE: www.eowa.us/newsevents > 8/13, WILL ROGERS & WILEY POST FLY IN Watch more than 100 small aircraft fly in and land on the 2,000-foot grass airstrip on the Will Rogers Birthplace Ranch, just east of Oologah and bordering Oologah Lake. Bring your own

TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

lawn chairs, talk to the pilots and see their planes up close. WHERE: Will Rogers Birthplace Ranch, 9501 E. 380 Road, Oologah FOR MORE: willrogers.com > 8/17, THE LUMINEERS The Lumineers’ BRIGHTSIDE World Tour visits the BOK Center with special guest James Bay. WHERE: BOK Center, 200 S. Denver Ave. FOR MORE: bokcenter.com > 8/20, POISON The rock band performs with Cinderella’s Tom Keifer and L.A. GUNS. Eddie Trunk hosts this event that was originally set for 2020. WHERE: BOK Center, 200 S. Denver Ave. FOR MORE: bokcenter.com > 8/23-28, “PRETTY WOMAN: THE MUSICAL” This show based on the 1990 hit film is brought to life by a powerhouse creative team, featuring direction and choreography by two-time Tony Award winner Jerry Mitchell, an original score by Grammy winner Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance and a book by the movie’s legendary director Garry Marshall and screenwriter J.F. Lawton. WHERE: Tulsa PAC, 101 E. Third St. FOR MORE: tulsapac.com

September > 9/1-4, 70TH ANNUAL CHEROKEE NATIONAL HOLIDAY The 70th annual Cherokee National Holiday will feature a return to in-person activities such as a new fishing tournament, cornhole competition, return of traditional games and inter-tribal powwow. WHERE: Tahlequah FOR MORE: thecherokeeholiday.com > 9/2-4, ROCKLAHOMA The Rocklahoma camping and music festival, which moved to Labor Day weekend in 2021, celebrates its 15th such event. WHERE: Rocklahoma festival grounds north of Pryor FOR MORE: rocklahoma.com > 9/11, MICHAEL BUBLÉ Grammy-winner Michael Bublé brings the Higher Tour to the BOK Center. WHERE: BOK Center, 200 S. Denver Ave. FOR MORE: bokcenter.com > 9/15, IRON MAIDEN Iron Maiden brings The Legacy Of The Beast World Tour with special guest Trivium to Tulsa. WHERE: BOK Center, 200 S. Denver Ave. FOR MORE: bokcenter.com > 9/16-25, “CREATIONS IN STUDIO K” Tulsa Ballet’s “Creations in Studio K” opens its season with pieces created in Tulsa and exported around the world. This season features Australian-born choreographer Craig Davidson and Ballet West Resident Choreographer Nicolo Fonte.

TULSAWORLDMAGAZINE.COM

IAN MAULE, TULSA WORLD MAGAZINE FILE‌

The Randy Rogers Band will return to the Born & Raised music festival in Pryor this fall. WHERE: 1212 E. 45th Place FOR MORE: tulsaballet.org > 9/16-18, SCOTFEST The annual Scotfest celebrates Celtic history and heritage. Find Scottish and Irish dance demonstrations, highland athletics, whisky tastings, solo piping, traditional drumming and pipe band competitions. WHERE: Broken Arrow Events Park, 21101 E. 101st St., Broken Arrow FOR MORE: okscotfest.com > 9/17-19, BORN & RAISED MUSIC FESTIVAL The Born & Raised Music Festival, which features outlaw, Texas and Red Dirt country music, returns for the second year. Oologah native Zach Bryan headlines the first night. WHERE: Pryor Creek Music Festival Grounds north of Pryor FOR MORE: bornandraisedfestival.com > 9/21, SCORPIONS AND WHITESNAKE Scorpions are bringing their Rock Believer World Tour 2022 with Whitesnake and special guest Thundermother to BOK Center. WHERE: BOK Center, 200 S. Denver Ave. FOR MORE: bokcenter.com > 9/24, THOMAS RHETT Country star Thomas Rhett’s tour, Bring The Bar To You, stops at the BOK Center. WHERE: BOK Center, 200 S. Denver Ave. FOR MORE: bokcenter.com > 9/24, “MAGNIFICENT: SHOSTAKOVICH’S SYMPHONY NO. 5” Pianist Natasha Paremski will be featured performing the Piano No. 2 by Rachmaninoff, and guest conductor Marcelo Lehninger will lead the orchestra in a program that includes the titular symphony as well as the Prelude to Act III of Richard Wagner’s opera, “Lohengrin.” WHERE: Tulsa PAC, 101 E. Third St. FOR MORE: tulsasymphony.org > 9/27-10/2, “HADESTOWN” Winner of eight 2019 Tony Awards, including best musical, this show by singer-songwriter

Anaïs Mitchell and director Rachel Chavkin intertwines the mythic tales of young dreamers Orpheus and Eurydice, and that of King Hades and his wife Persephone. WHERE: Tulsa PAC, 101 E. Third St. FOR MORE: tulsapac.com > 9/27, NHL’S TULSA CLASSIC The Dallas Stars return to the BOK Center to take on the Arizona Coyotes in an NHL preseason game. WHERE: BOK Center, 200 S. Denver Ave. FOR MORE: bokcenter.com

Answers to the Up Close quiz on pages 12-13 1. Blue Dome building, 320 E. Second St. 2. Kennedy Building, 321 S. Boston Ave. 3. St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, 2434 E. Admiral Blvd. 4. Utica Square Clock, 2191 S. Xanthus Ave. 5. Adams Building, 403 S. Cheyenne Ave. 6. Skybridge above the intersection of First Street and Cincinnati Avenue 7. “Artificial Cloud” at the Center Of The Universe, 1 S. Boston Ave. 8. Philtower Building ornamentation, 427 S. Boston Ave. 9. Pavilion at the Tulsa Fairgrounds, 1701 S. Louisville Ave. 10. Ethel Frances Crate Memorial Fountain at Tulsa Zoo, 6421 E. 36th St. North 11. Mayo hotel sign, 115 W. Fifth St. 12. Tam Bao Buddhist Temple, 16833 E. 21st St. 13. University of Tulsa’s Kendall Cupola and Bell at the Bayless Plaza, near College Avenue 14. Highway lights on Interstate 44 at Lewis Avenue 15. Circle Cinema sign, 10 S. Lewis Ave. 16. Centerpiece of John Hope Franklin Reconciliation park, 321 N. Detroit Ave. 17. Lights in the lobby of the Philtower building at Fourth and Boston 18. Boston Avenue United Methodist Church, 1301 S. Boston Ave. 19. Fire Alarm building, 1010 E. Eighth St. 20. Meadow Gold Sign, 1324 E. 11th St.

Tulsa World Magazine 83

NOMINATIONS ARE IN!

Get Ready to VOTE!!! VOTING PERIOD: JULY 12 - JULY 28 The top 5 businesses in each category will move onto the voting phase. Participants are able to vote once per day, per category, for the duration of the voting phase.

WINNERS ANNOUNCED: SEPTEMBER 25 First place winners will have a logo that says, “winner” to utilize on their ads. Second and Third place winners will have a logo that says, “favorite” to utilize on their ads.

go.tulsaworld.com/BITW22

Ultimate Tulsa Area

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Tulsa World Magazine 85

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late-night cravings. During special events like promotion nights and concerts, Stonecreek Kitchen offers a fine-dining widespread buffet. Stay in style in one of the 286 luxury rooms, including more than 21 suites and 7 hospitality suites, Osage Casinos’ Tulsa location has to offer. Perfect for a romantic getaway, a fun-filled weekend with friends, or a relaxing staycation. In addition to the gaming floor and entertainment venue, the property boasts a pool, hot tub, and private cabanas to melt or drink your cares away. Book your stay on the weekends for fun in the sun hours exclusively for hotel guests, complete with live entertainment on select days. In addition to its location in Tulsa, Osage Casino offers unique gaming and entertainment experiences at six additional properties throughout northeastern Oklahoma, including Ponca City, Skiatook, Bartlesville, Pawhuska, Sand Springs, and Hominy.

Or visit osagecasino.com

At Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa, our top priority is you. Come find the newest and most popular electronic games, a High Limit room, and one of Oklahoma’s best table games. We are your celebration destination. Savor the best from our chef at McGill’s on 19—an elevated fine dining experience. Enjoy more casual fare at diner favorites like HWY 66 Diner, or our food court. Come watch the game at Replay Sports Bar with 51 big screens. Listen to your favorite DJ at Amp Bar, or get back to Oklahoma’s Rich Honky-Tonk Roots at Track 5. Discover an unforgettable gaming experience like no other. We gathered your favorite games and biggest hits such as Polar High Roller, Lucky Ducky, The Hunt for Neptune’s Gold, Silver Dollar Shootout and Lightning Link™ into one room. So take the stage and make your night legendary at the Greatest Hits Lounge. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa is a AAA 4 Diamond property and has repeatedly been voted Tulsa’s best. We’ve turned everything up to 11 at the newly renovated Hard Rock Tower. With sleek new décor and upgraded amenities, every room is an unforgettable luxury experience. Each floor is a tribute to music’s most iconic eras and personalities, with more unbelievable art and memorabilia of all your favorite superstars. It’s time for you to get away and sleep like a rock. Enjoy 24/7 room service and experience Suite Emotion. Relax in our resort-style pool with its upscale amenities in a quiet and restful oasis. If golf is your game, play like the pros on our 18-hole, world-class championship golf course, Cherokee Hills. We’re still the one you know and love. Come see us soon at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa where you Live Your Greatest Hits.

I-44 Exit 240 | 800.760.6700 | HARDROCKCASINOTULSA.COM

Know your limits. Gambling problem? Call 800.522.4700.

IT ALL COMES DOWN TO

PROVIDING THE BEST CARE.

Saint Francis Hospital Ranked #1 in Oklahoma. Sure, recognition is nice. It’s a reflection of all the work we put in every day. It’s also a way to let you know we’re always striving to do better. Because the real reward comes in making sure our friends, families and neighbors receive the very best medical care. Being named Oklahoma’s #1 hospital is just what happens when we put our patients first.

Visit us at saintfrancis.com

Tulsa World Magazine Summer 2022

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