Oklahoma Magazine February 2026

OU HEALTH STEPHENSON CANCER CENTER IN TULSA

Hope Starts Here: Advanced Cancer Care Coming to Tulsa

OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center, Oklahoma’s only National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated cancer center, is expanding to Tulsa. This stateof-the-art, 176,000-square-foot facility on the University of Oklahoma’s Schusterman campus will deliver advanced, research-driven cancer care closer to home. From medical and radiation oncology to infusion services and groundbreaking clinical trials, this cancer center will be a destination for hope and healing in Northeastern Oklahoma. Construction begins soon — because world-class cancer care should be where you need it most.

Opening in 2028:

• Dedicated clinical trials not available at any other Oklahoma cancer center

• 70 exam rooms

• 45 infusion spaces

• Full imaging: MRI, PET-CT & more

• Access to state-of-the-art technology and innovative treatments

We are currently seeing patients in Tulsa at OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center at Hillcrest at 1245 S. Utica Avenue, offering compassionate care and clinical trials. To make an appointment, call (918) 579-3850. Together, we’re lifting the health of Oklahoma — turning breakthroughs into hope for generations.

Oklahoma

Contents

Features

24 Higher Ed, Recalculated

From updated AI policy to career-focused credentials, the future of higher education in Oklahoma is taking shape.

34 Private School Guide

The Private School Guide helps readers compare studentteacher ratios, tuition costs, foreign language options, religious affiliations and more.

36 Aesthetics: A Subtle Science

As plastic surgery and aesthetics evolve, today’s most soughtafter treatments focus on natural-looking results, shorter recovery times and long-term health.

42 Love at First Sip

There’s a lot to love about Oklahoma cocktail culture: thoughtful bartenders, local ingredients, inventive programming and creative flavors

We discuss the state’s spirited social scene, suggest mindful drinking habits, offer bar etiquette and showcase several Oklahoma pours worth falling for.

Off From Indian Territory to Greenwood, Oklahoma’s Black history is foundational to the state’s past, present and future.

18 Destinations

Tajikistan proves that this “land of” is defined as much by dramatic elevation as it is by culture.

20 Health 21 FYI

22 Outside the Metro 23 Guide

Taste

48 First Bite MAHT represents a new chapter for chef Kevin Lee, in which technique, heritage and confidence converge.

49 Local Flavors

50 Chef Chat

51 Tasty Tidbits Where &

52 Entertainment Shake off the winter blues with ample entertainment options this month.

55 Film & Cinema

56 Closing Thoughts

ON THE COVER: THE SUMMIT CLUB'S NASHI BLOSSOM IS JUST ONE OF SEVERAL DELICIOUS LIBATIONS YOU CAN PERUSE IN OUR ANNUAL COCKTAIL FEATURE (PAGE 42). PHOTO BY STEPHANIE PHILLIPS

Letter from the Editor

It’s the month of looooove – so are you ready to take the plunge? Not into a relationship, but into our Love at First Sip cocktail feature, obviously. Our cover story (page 42) presents some tempting libations you can find in Tulsa and OKC, along with helpful bar etiquette, a look at cocktail culture at large, plus mindful drinking tips and tricks.

If looking in the mirror has become a less-than-fun experience for you (I get it), aesthetic experts in Oklahoma can help bring your inner beauty to the surface (page 36). We chat with surgeons and other specialists about procedures on the rise, the burgeoning regenerative aesthetics movement, and how ethical marketing and open communication can help patients temper expectations and get exactly what they’re looking for.

February is also the month we look to the future of higher education (page 24). Universities and colleges talk with us about the ever-evolving AI guidelines on campus, how they’re adjusting curriculum to best serve new graduates, and the many ways community colleges are becoming vital innovation hubs. Stick around for the informative Private School Guide (page 34), too.

If you’re not into aesthetics, drinking or education, don’t you worry –let’s plenty more to peruse. We cover dating culture in Oklahoma (page 11), a new and already beloved steakhouse in OKC (page 48) and the fascinating world of neon art restoration, a burgeoning art form in the state due to the upcoming Route 66 centennial (page 8).

Happy love month, folks! Stay sweet.

Mary Willa Allen Managing Editor

What’s HOT at OKMAG.COM

Thirsty for more? See additional cocktail photos and recipes online at okmag.com.

PRESIDENT AND EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

DANIEL SCHUMAN

PUBLISHER AND FOUNDER

VIDA K. SCHUMAN

MANAGING EDITOR

MARY WILLA ALLEN

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

JOHN WOOLEY

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

BRYAN MEADOR

DIGITAL CONSULTANT

JAMES AVERY

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

STEPHANIE PHILLIPS, BRENT FUCHS

CONTACT US

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: ADVERTISING@OKMAG.COM

EVENTS AND CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS: EVENTS@OKMAG.COM

QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS ABOUT CONTENT: EDITOR@OKMAG.COM

ALL OTHER INQUIRIES: MAIL@OKMAG.COM

Oklahoma Magazine is published monthly by Schuman Publishing Company P.O. Box 14204 • Tulsa, OK 74159-1204 918.744.6205 • FAX: 918.748.5772 mail@okmag.com www.okmag.com

Subscriptions are $18 for 12 issues. Mail checks to Oklahoma Magazine P.O. Box 14204 Tulsa, OK 74159-1204

Copyright © 2026 by Schuman Publishing Company. Oklahoma Wedding, The Best of the Best, 40 Under 40, Single in the City, Great Companies To Work For and Oklahomans of the Year are registered trademarks of Schuman Publishing Company. All rights reserved. Reproduction without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited.

All photographs, articles, materials and design elements in Oklahoma Magazine and on okmag. com are protected by applicable copyright and trademark laws, and are owned by Schuman Publishing Company or third party providers. Reproduction, copying, or redistribution without the express written permission of Schuman Publishing Company is strictly prohibited.

All requests for permission and reprints must be made in writing to Oklahoma Magazine, c/o Reprint Services, P.O. Box 14204, Tulsa, OK 74159-1204. Advertising claims and the views expressed in the magazine by writers or artists do not necessarily represent those of Oklahoma Magazine, Schuman Publishing Company, or its affiliates.

40

40UNDER TM 918 MAGAZINE

of

We’re proud to say we’ve done it again. U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best Medical Schools rankings has once again named OSU Center for Health Sciences No. 1 in graduates practicing in Health Professional Shortage Areas. And we’re ranked No. 11 nationally for graduates practicing in rural areas.

We are educating physicians in the heart of Tulsa, and in rural Oklahoma at our Cherokee Nation campus in Tahlequah.

With a mission to educate physicians for rural and underserved populations in Oklahoma, this news is just another confirmation we are making good on that promise.

The State

ALL THINGS OKLAHOMA

A Legacy Beyond Erasure

From Indian Territory to Greenwood, Oklahoma’s Black history is foundational to the state’s past, present and future.

Oklahoma wouldn’t be what it is today without the countless contributions of Black Americans. However, many of their stories are omitted from history textbooks. Celebrated every February, Black History Month aims to address this erasure, acting as a time to re-examine the past and celebrate the achievements of Black visionaries throughout history.

“As a historian, I have the fortune of studying these histories year-round,” shares Matthew Pearce, Ph.D., who serves as the State Historian at the Oklahoma Historical Society. “But I think it’s important that we commemorate Black History Month as a way to come together and acknowledge Black history and its importance to both Oklahoma and U.S. history.”

African American Settlement in Indian Territory

Oklahoma has a unique history of African American settlement. The Trail of Tears, which is known for its connection to the Five Tribes, is also the reason the first African Americans arrived in present-day Oklahoma.

Enslaved by the Five Tribes, Black Americans were forced to make the harsh journey along the Trail of Tears to Indian Territory with their slaveholders.

“We know a good deal about Native American history, but even that can sometimes not always be fully appreciated, especially the intersection of Native and Black history here,” reflects Raymond Doswell, Ed.D, a public historian, educator and the executive director at Greenwood Rising in Tulsa. “I think it’s

something that visitors – and I’ll say for myself too – find surprising.”

During the Civil War, many enslaved people fought for the Union, forming four All-Black calvaries and infantries. Dubbed “Buffalo Soldiers,” these regiments represented 10% of the army’s effective strength and were pivotal in defeating the Confederacy.

The Rise of Oklahoma’s All-Black Towns

Following the Emancipation Proclamation, many Freedmen migrated from the Deep South to Indian Territory, participating in the Oklahoma Land Runs.

“It became an area where Black town promoters like E.P. McCabe pointed to Oklahoma territory as a potential haven for Black settlers,” explains Pearce.

Between 1865 and 1920, more than 50 all-Black towns formed across the state. Among these towns, Boley was one of the largest, featuring a teeming business district with banks, cotton gins and a Grand Masonic Temple.

Boley also became the birthplace of the oldest all-Black rodeo in the United States. Founded in 1903, the Boley Rodeo continues every Memorial Day weekend, paying tribute to the town’s rich Black American roots.

Located in Oklahoma City, the Oklahoma History Center’s exhibit Realizing the Dream highlights the state’s African American history, including the rise and fall of Oklahoma’s All-Black towns, 11 of which still exist today.

Remembering the Rosenwald Schools

During the 20th century, nearly 200 educational institutions for Black schoolchildren were constructed across the state. These schools were made possible by the Rosenwald Fund, a philanthropic program that was established by Julius Rosenwald.

At least 11 of Oklahoma’s all-Black communities built schoolhouses through this program, including the Rosenwald Hall in Lima. Built in 1921, the Rosenwald Hall served as the community’s only elementary school for 45 years.

Now defunct, the school is one of the only Rosenwald institutions that still stands. In 1984, the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places, and the community undertook efforts to raise $1.5 million to fully restore the school in 2023.

The Legacy of Dr. John Hope Franklin

The Rosenwald Fund also created fellowship grants for African American artists, scientists and scholars. Among its recipients was Oklahoman historian John Hope Franklin, Ph.D.

Born in 1915, Franklin was the son of E.B. Franklin, a survivor of the Tulsa Race Massacre. Dedicated to education and public policy, Dr. John Hope Franklin worked as a member of the research team in the landmark Supreme Court case Brown v Board of Education.

In honor of his legacy, the John Hope Franklin Center for Reconciliation was founded to promote reconciliation through community engagement and scholarly work. The center manages the John Hope Franklin Park in Tulsa, which serves as a memorial for remembering Oklahoma’s complex heritage.

In December, the nonprofit launched a capital campaign to raise funds for the construction of a new facility in Tulsa’s Historic Greenwood District. The facility will provide a permanent space for hosting exhibitions and community events that retell a fuller story of Oklahoma history. To learn more, check out jhfcenter. org/capitalcampaign.

Tulsa’s Historic Greenwood District

Welcoming 40,000 visitors annually, Greenwood Rising is dedicated to educating the public about Tulsa’s Historic Greenwood District. The award-winning museum accomplishes this by taking visitors on a narrative-driven, immersive

experience that recounts the history of Tulsa’s “Black Wall Street.”

“This is a history that many Oklahomans don’t know in spite of the fact that it happened in their home state… It’s quite eye-opening for them,” says Doswell.

To further drive awareness, the museum has partnered with the Tulsa Police Department and Tulsa Public Schools to educate both police cadets and all eighth-grade TPS students about the creation, destruction and lasting impact of Greenwood.

In celebration of its fifth anniversary, the museum will expand its community outreach and offer discounted admission to visitors on select days. To learn more, go to greenwoodrising.org.

“In a climate where we’re trying to homogenize history, it’s important to understand and realize the diversity of stories in our histories,” says Doswell. “It’s not a pretty history in some respects, but there are some triumphs in there as well, and we need to embrace it all.”

FAITH HARL

Preserving the Glow

Once faded into history, Oklahoma’s neon signs are being revived through craftsmanship, grants and community pride ahead of Route 66's centennial.

Neon signs are some of the world’s most beautiful – and underappreciated – forms of art. First showcased back in 1910 by Georges Claude at the Paris Motor Show, neon signs have had an everexpanding presence across the country for decades. The hub of the art form’s restoration and preservation, however, is found right here in Oklahoma.

“Neon artists are called ‘glass benders’ because that’s literally what happens –heating up glass tubes and bending them into shapes,” says Rhys Martin, president of the Oklahoma Route 66 Association. “Restoring vintage neon takes a lot of work. Some of these old signs haven’t been lit in decades, and there are limited resources available to show what the colors originally were.”

Environmental conditions can play a factor, as well as the sad truth that trained professionals are simply hard to come by.

“I’ve known some businesses that have had to hire shops hundreds of miles away. Some of these old signs aren’t the size you can just load into a truck bed,” says Martin.

Thankfully, plenty of Oklahoma signs have been restored over the past few years with the help of grant funding.

“Under the City of Tulsa/Route 66 Commission’s neon sign grant program, four of the eighty-five signs awarded grants since 2019 have been restorations in anticipation of the Route 66 Centennial,” says Autumn Tiller, an urban design planner at the Tulsa Planning Office. “Total cost for restoration of these signs total approximately $30,000. Signs brought back to their former glory in-

clude Billy Ray's BBQ, Interparts of Tulsa, Thelma’s Bar and Circle Cinema.”

Martin says the beauty of these signs was just one reason he got interested in the art form.

“I originally got into Route 66 as a photographer, and the old neon was one of my favorite subjects,” he says. “I marveled at the signs that had survived the coming of the interstates, but also loved capturing the ghosts of once magnificent buzzing beacons. It’s been so wonderful to not only see old signs restored these last few years, but see newer business owners get the opportunity to add neon signage to their little slice of the Mother Road.”

While the neon is a great way to slip back into nostalgic times, it also serves as a tourism booster for the state.

“The grant program has increased the inventory of neon signs in Tulsa and provides attractions for locals, Route 66 enthusiasts and neon fans alike,” says Tiller. “Some commercial property owners along the Route include it as a condition within their business leases to encourage investment and participation in the program.”

Martin agrees: neon signs are more than a beautiful thing to observe.

“A signature piece of art like a neon sign not only helps you stand out but calls to that particular flavor of traveler that seeks out these signs so that they can see them lit up,” he says. “That means they have to stay until the sun sets ... and that means at least a meal and probably a hotel room. Great for economic development and great for local pride of place, too.”

DREW JOSEPH ALLEN

Ignoring “The Way It’s Done”

From civil rights to historical truth, overlooked Oklahoma women dared to defy convention.

1924 in Chickasha. She was an excellent student — graduating from Lincoln High School in 1941 as valedictorian and enrolling at Arkansas A&M College, attending for one year. Sipuel transferred to Langston University in Oklahoma to study English and graduated with honors in 1945, but she dreamed of becoming a lawyer.

Grace Hopper – a U.S. Navy rear admiral, mathematician and computer scientist – believed that the most dangerous phrase was: ‘We’ve always done it this way.’ Oklahoma trailblazers like Angie Debo, Ph.D., and Ada Lois Sipuel Fisher embodied that same forward-thinking mindset, paving the way for women to dare to achieve something greater.

Debo, an innovative scholar, was one of the first major historians to document injustices against Native tribes in Oklahoma. Born in 1890 in Beattie, Kansas, Debo moved to Marshall, Oklahoma Territory, with her family when she was nine years old. She graduated from the University of Oklahoma in 1918 with a degree in history, received her master’s degree from the University of Chicago in 1924, and earned her doctorate from OU in 1933.

In addition to teaching, she was a pastor and the director of the Federal

Writers Project in Oklahoma. Debo authored nine books, edited three, coauthored another, wrote many chapters, articles and forewords, and presented numerous papers on Native Americans and Oklahoma history. She also lectured and traveled.

Debo served on the board of directors of the Oklahoma Chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union and the Association on American Indian Affairs. She made surveys for the Indian Rights Association and lobbied for land rights for Indians in Alaska and for water rights for the Havasupai and Pima in Arizona.

Debo was not often publicly commended because during her lifetime, her work challenged state and federal officials, blacklisting her from academic jobs. Some colleges wouldn't hire her on as a professor simply because she was a woman. Despite this, Debo’s research shaped modern scholarship on Native history, and Oklahoma State University maintains an archive in her honor.

Ada Lois Sipuel Fisher was born in

At the time, Oklahoma was segregated, but Sipuel sought admission to the University of Oklahoma’s College of Law anyway. She was denied admission due to her race. A three year legal battle with the district courts, Oklahoma Supreme Court and the U.S. Supreme Court ensued with the support of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and civic leaders across the state.

Fisher and her team ultimately won the case, and she was able to enroll in the University of Oklahoma’s law school. Her case was groundbreaking — paving the way for desegregation in higher education in 1948. However, her story was overshadowed by the Brown v. Board of Education case, which ruled that U.S. state laws establishing racial segregation in public schools violate the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment.

Despite this, Fisher's fight and win had a ripple effect for future students of color: the University of Oklahoma’s law school created a scholarship and lecture series in her name.

JENNIFER LEE

Finding Love IRL

Whether online or off, today’s dating pool is blending creativity, confidence and caution in the search for true connection.

Digital matchmakers like Tinder, Bumble and Hinge are certainly holding onto relevance – yet some soulmate searchers are telling dating apps: “It’s not me, it’s you.” Indeed, America’s top three dating apps report losing more than 100,000 users last year.

Fewer than one-quarter of Gen Z adults met their partner through a dating app, social media or online community, according to a Hims study. So some folks are putting their own twist on seeking true love.

For example, an Oklahoma man recently stenciled his phone number and “Man seeks a wife,” on a placard and posted it along a rural road. And a California bachelorette is fielding 35,000 applications after using digital billboards to encourage gentlemen to fill out her

online dating questionnaire.

Other date seekers are taking classes in art, cooking, photography, dancing, yoga or rock climbing to find "the one." They’re visiting arcade bars, dog parks, libraries or churches. Some are even helping at animal shelters or food banks.

Whether you connect through social media or real life, here are some guidelines to help keep dating safe and fun.

First Date Safety Tips

• Give your date a cursory internet search before you agree to go out. Check out LinkedIn for authenticity and TruthFinder for criminal activity.

• Agree on a casual daytime public venue, such as a coffee shop, brewery or park.

• Arrange your own transportation and don’t reveal your address.

• Punctuality sets expectations for the

date’s pacing and vibe – so avoid being late and always text if you’re running behind.

• Let friends and family know of your date and pre-plan an exit strategy using a text code.

• Keep an eye on your drink and food.

• Trust your gut. If something seems off, therapist Pamela Garber says you can simply say, “Sorry, it’s not a match,” and leave.

First Impressions

Research shows you have a tenth of a second to make a good impression. So just relax and follow Louisiana Sen. John Kennedy’s advice:

“Always be yourself,” says Kennedy, “unless you suck.”

Assuming you don’t fall into that category, confidence is your dating superpower, says dating expert Matthew Hussey. Potential partners are not seeking someone who just needs a relationship, he says. The secret is showing up as your confident, authentic self, and bringing your own value to the table. Stop seeking mass approval, and look for someone who specifically appreciates your value.

Meanwhile, be aware that communication reveals critical psychological traits.

“Boundaries, focus on the past, presentation of self … are all indicators of who the person is,” Garber says, “and potential for compatibility.”

Avoid knucklehead questions like: How much money do you make?

“I do think a well-meaning but verbally clumsy person is better than one who is verbally appropriate but masking issues under the surface,” Garber says.

Conversation Starters

Research suggests that being a good conversationalist can be more appealing than physical attractiveness. So, here are some questions to get you started:

• What’s your funniest childhood memory?

•Where would you like to travel and why?

• What celebrity are you most like?

• Have you ever seen a ghost?

• Would you take a free ride on SpaceX?

• What’s the strangest thing in your refrigerator?

SONYA COLBERG

Art Without Barriers

By prioritizing access, representation and storytelling, Oklahoma’s smaller arts organizations are reshaping who gets to participate, and how.

Smaller performing arts groups in Oklahoma are as unique and diverse as our landscape – gaining a foothold in the state’s cultural scene and working hard to reach their audiences.

Although they lack the funding of their larger counterparts, these small but mighty companies have programming that is just as engaging.

“What distinguishes RACE from ... larger institutions is not what we do, but how we do it,” says Sheri Hayden, executive director of RACE Dance Collective based in OKC. “Our scale allows us to remain highly responsive, communityembedded and artist-centered. We prioritize underrepresented dance genres, create professional development opportunities for local dancers and remove barriers to participation through accessible initiatives.

“While larger institutions serve important roles within the regional arts ecosystem, RACE complements that work by centering access, representation and workforce development for artists

and audiences who are often excluded from traditional dance spaces,” Hayden continues.

Kelli McLoud-Schingen, the founding artistic director of World Stage Theatre Company based in Tulsa, says that smaller organizations like hers have more freedom to explore more nontraditional spaces and subjects.

“Our audience includes people who enjoy thought-provoking stories that linger long after the performance, those interested in stories from around the world, and individuals who may not be traditional theatre-goers but are drawn to the stories we tell,” she says.

Of course, being a smaller organization often means working on a tighter budget.

“Our marketing reach is primarily limited to word of mouth, social media and printed postcards and posters,” says McLoud-Schingen. “We do not have access to paid radio or television advertising, nor the large-scale promotional resources available to larger organizations. Our funding initially came solely from ticket sales, but over the past three

to four years, we have also benefited from grants from local philanthropic organizations and individuals.”

Hayden agrees that word of mouth is powerful, “given our strong, connected community of dancers, students and families. Many audience members discover us through friends or relatives who take classes or perform with the company. We also use social media platforms, send digital newsletters and partner with local TV stations for interviews around major events.”

Since the pandemic, World Stage Theatre Company has grown.

“We became the first theatre company in the city to operate a storefront performance space, expanded our board, secured new grant funding and strengthened our youth summer camp program,” shares McLoud-Schingen.

RACE has also experienced positive upticks post-pandemic.

“When the pandemic began, RACE was still operating in a grassroots phase,” says Hayden. “The organization was entirely run by independent contractors and volunteers, programming was more limited, and there was not yet a consistent base of grant or donor support. As a result, when funding priorities shifted, RACE was not disproportionately impacted by the loss of contributed revenue. While earned income declined, leadership quickly pivoted and reimagined programming to remain active, connected and financially viable during an unprecedented time.

“Since then, RACE has continued to survive and grow by intentionally creating safe, welcoming and communitycentered spaces for dancers. As people returned to movement and in-person connection, RACE became a place where artists felt supported, seen and valued, regardless of background or experience level. The organization has expanded its programming, strengthened partnerships and built steady relationships with local and state funders.”

SHARON MCBRIDE

Catch the Wind

Kite-flying is an age-inclusive, accessible and affordable activity.

When the weather cooperates, there’s nothing quite like being outside on an afternoon in Oklahoma. One of the many ways people like to pass the time, especially when the wind is perfect, is by flying a kite.

“Kite flying has been around for over 3,000 years,” says Larry Stiles, president of Tulsa Wind Riders, a passionate club of kite-flying enthusiasts. “It started in China, where they used paper and bamboo. As for me, it started in 1980 with stunt kites.”

Similar to regular kites, stunt kites have multiple lines and can be maneuvered in the air with more precise control.

A beautiful thing about kite flying? Age simply doesn’t matter when you’re getting into it.

“The age range is all ages,” says Stiles. “Younger kids like the stunt kites, whereas the older people like the single line kites. Just put them up, stake them down and let them fly.”

Whether you’re looking for a leisure activity or a fun way to alleviate stress

and appreciate the Oklahoma skyline, kite flying is a hobby for everyone. If you’re not sure where to start, Stiles has some suggestions.

“You can purchase good quality kites all over the Internet or from kite stores,” says Stiles. “Here in Oklahoma, you can purchase kites from me, Lala’s Kites, on Facebook. I carry all kinds of colorful and unique [options].”

If you’re heading out to fly for the first time, the easiest tips for a good experience are making sure the kite is put

together correctly and that the wind isn’t too strong.

“Keep your back to the wind,” Stiles advises. “You don’t need a whole lot of wind to fly, just a good wind around eight miles per hour. Many people think the windier the better, but that’s not true. Too much wind pressure will push your kite down.”

Another pro of kite flying is that the hobby can be as active – or as sedentary – as you wish.

“You don’t have to run with your kite. Just let the line out instead of pulling on it,” says Stiles.

Lastly, make sure you’ve picked the right spot to get the best uninterrupted wind.

“Stay away from trees and power lines,” he says. “Select a good open area to fly. Buildings and trees can disrupt the wind flow.”

If you’re looking to enjoy the hobby with a friend, a club is a fast and easy way to meet other likeminded kite enthusiasts. Stiles says that the Tulsa Wind Riders often meet up at East 43rd and South Garnett Road, and regularly update their Facebook with information.

“We don’t have dues, the wind is free,” he says. “Just come out and join us!”

And what makes kite flying so appealing to such a wide range of people? According to Stiles, it’s all about calmness and relaxation.

“Just put your kite up,” he says, “and let your worries fly away.”

DREW JOSEPH ALLEN

Stick the Landing

Discipline, fearlessness and opportunity define the impact of a sport that prepares young athletes for just about anything.

By the time Deana Martinez was three years old, “I was climbing all over everything,” she says. “So my mom put me in gymnastics.”

She thrived in the sport, and as a teenager started coaching as well as competing. She’s now been coaching for 30 years and owns Edmond Gymnastics Academy, where her students start as young as 18 months in the parent and tot classes, and often go on to compete at the collegiate level.

Martinez is head coach of a team that competes in club gymnastics, traveling to meets from December through May. The training is rigorous.

“They sacrifice a lot,” she says. “Most have to work out a minimum of four and a half hours a day, at least five days a week. Some do two-a-days.”

But there is a payoff.

Martinez says as she reflected on the women she competed with and against, “I realized that these women are very successful, and gymnastics has been the vehicle. I realized that the women that come out of gymnastics can pretty much accomplish anything they want to accomplish.”

Gymnastics, she says, “sets a child up for success in everything, including life. It helps with time management and goal setting.”

Her training helps kids who compete in other sports, Martinez says.

“For any sport they will be stronger, have better balance. The foundation of gymnastics leads to excelling in every sport.”

Her students usually know by their pre-teen years if they want to continue to the competitive level.

“Gymnastics has fear,” she acknowledges. “Because you are going to jump backwards on a beam. You need a certain amount of power and flexibility, and some of those things are genetic.”

Edmond Gymnastics competitors have earned scholarships to colleges across the nation. And the programs at the University of Oklahoma play a role in enthusiasm for the sport, even if not a lot of Oklahoma gymnasts are able to compete for their home state.

“OU has to recruit some percentage out of Oklahoma, but they are taking the very top in the nation,” Martinez says.

OU has won 12 national championships, tied for the most nationally, says Mike Houck, senior associate athletic director for the university.

“Since 2000, the Sooners have claimed nine NCAA team titles, 19 conference championships, 278 All-Americans and 41 individual national titles. Combine that with multiple Olympians and the most Nissen-Emery winners all-time, and you have the country’s premiere college program,” Houck says.

The women have racked up seven national championships. OU has advanced to the NCAA championships every year since 2004 and has produced a total of 136 individual conference champions, 227 NCAA All-Americans and 22 individual national champions all-time, Houck says.

Michael Kimball, an OU graduate, says his family started attending gymnastics meets after joining the Sooner Kids Club.

“The women’s gymnastics meets are definitely a favorite for both of my girls, and my wife and I love them too,” Kimball says. “The atmosphere is super family-friendly. There’s tons of action, and obviously the student-athletes are at the peak of their sport, including some former Olympic medalists we’ve seen compete in Norman.”

As a father of daughters, Kimball says, “one of the most important things to me is that there are thousands of fans in the stands — my daughters will grow up knowing it's totally normal for thousands of paying fans to be at a women’s sporting event.”

Kimball says when they attended a women’s basketball game at Lloyd Noble Center for the first time, his older daughter asked, “Oh, does OU play basketball in the gymnastics arena?”

KIMBERLY BURK

COWBOYS NEVER WALK ALONE.

NO MATTER WHERE YOU ARE IN YOUR JOURNEY.

Starting fresh? Transferring in? Finishing what you started? Oklahoma State University meets you where you are at every stage. In Tulsa, in Stillwater or online — when you walk the Cowboy way, you’re part of something bigger.

• OSU-Tulsa — Your OSU degree. Your city. Your community.

• OSU-Stillwater — Classic campus. Spirited tradition. Cowboy pride.

• OSU-Online — Flexible learning that fits your life, not the other way around. LEARN MORE

HOW WILL YOU ANSWER?

The Land of the Giants

From Buck Atom to Rosie the Riveter, giant roadside figures are reshaping Tulsa’s identity.

Over the years, the two best-known nicknames for Tulsa have had to do with petroleum: the Oil Capital of the World and the Magic Empire – the latter allegedly bestowed by the famous American General John J. “Black Jack” Pershing to reflect his perception of the city as an oil boomtown.

There’s another one making the rounds these days: Land of the Giants. And if it takes hold, it’ll be in great part because of the entrepreneur and businessperson Mary Beth Babcock. Back in 2019, she was responsible for bringing the 21-foot-tall statue of a space cowboy she named Buck Atom to Tulsa and getting it placed beside her Route 66 shop, Buck Atom’s Cosmic Curios, where it has since stood, a true example of a genuine roadside attraction.

Buck Atom was the first giant to land here; he was not the last. These days, four more of them adorn sections of the old Mother Road, ready to be discovered, visited, and photographed by local sightseers as well as by the increasing number of travelers rolling down the nostalgic highway during its centennial year.

If you’re from northeastern Oklahoma, you probably remember Babcock’s former store, Dwelling Spaces. Located on a

corner in downtown Tulsa, it was around for a decade, offering all kinds of items, from clothing to books to music, with a big emphasis on material from local creators. In 2016, Dwelling Spaces closed its doors, and, for a year or so, Babcock applied herself to various retail and other jobs.

Then came an epiphany, helped along by either an amazing coincidence or some sort of cosmic synchronicity.

“I woke up one day and I said to myself, ‘What is it that you really want to do?’” she recalls. “I’d made things happen before, and I was confident enough in myself to think that if I went after what I really wanted, I could make it work. So I thought, ‘What is it? What do I want?’ And the answer was that I wanted to do retail, but something small.”

Just about a half-hour later, as she recalls it, she was looking at Facebook and ran onto a picture of a building in Tulsa that had, in the 1950s, housed a PEMCO filling station. “Immediately, when I saw it, I said, ‘That’s it! I want a souvenir shop, in a gas station, on Route 66.’ It couldn’t have been more perfect. I asked, and there it was.”

And she did indeed make it work. But from the beginning, she felt that the place needed a mascot, something to draw the attention of passersby.

“When I was at Dwelling Spaces, I had an artist named Jeremy Luther create a character for the shop, an outer-space cowboy,” she says. “For a while he just lived in my computer, and then when the [PEMCO building] spot became available, I was like, ‘Oh, gosh, I can bring that space cowboy to life.’ He had to have a name, so ‘Buck’ was for the cowboy side and ‘Atom’ for the space side. I knew that a character like that could be so much fun to work with – to come up with a story for him and create merchandise.

“At that time, I had no clue he would become a 21-foot-tall roadside attraction,” she adds. “But once I got open, got the logo, got the merchandise in – well, I knew I needed some kind of attraction, because I was on historic Route 66.”

Although she didn’t quite connect it at the time, she remembered a long-ago visit to another Mother Road business –the Pops Soda Ranch in Arcadia, with its 66-foot soda-bottle sculpture out front.

“I thought then, ‘Man, this is so brilliant. It’s a new Route 66 attraction. The road’s been around for a lot of years, but this is new.’”

She also recalled a giant figure that had graced the city of Enid, her dad’s hometown, before moving down the road about 40 miles, where it towered

over a business called Bud’s Salvage. Crafted to resemble the legendary strongman Paul Bunyan, axe in hand, it had been created from the mold of what fiberglass-statue aficionados know as the Muffler Man. Originally made in the ’60s for Phillips 66 gas stations, these figures had become iconic pieces of American pop culture.

Unfortunately, when Babcock’s brother David made a call to the salvage yard, it was no deal. The Bunyanesque figure was, Babcock recalls, “bringing too much traffic into their business.”

Then, one day, she was talking to Rhys Martin, president of the Route 66 Association, about the whole roadsideattraction idea. He put her onto a man in Illinois named Joel Baker – “the guru of all the giants,” she says – and he, in turn, introduced her to Mark Cline of Natural Bridge, Virginia, who had a mold available of the original Muffler Man. Sure, he could make one to her space-cowboy specifications. And in May of 2019 – following a significant amount of fundraising on Babcock’s part – the giant Buck Atom took his place on the Mother Road.

Muffler Men weren’t the only giantsized fiberglass figures to come out of the ’60s. There were also what are known as Uniroyal Gals, originally created for the tire manufacturer. Since it only seemed logical to Babcock that Buck should have a female counterpart, Stella Atom arrived from Virginia a few years later to take her place on America’s Main Street.

“I got to design her, and she was like a giant paper doll for me,” says Babcock. “I wanted to throw in some memory of my mom, and every time I see a yellow but-

terfly I think of her, so there are yellow butterflies on Stella’s boots.”

Stella Atom arrived in town in June of 2024. Since then, Babcock’s retail outlets have expanded down the Mother Road to Tulsa’s old Meadow Gold Building, which houses some 66 local artists and their work, as well as the former Hardesty Press building across the street, where she now runs a store called Buck’s Vintage. And, as all this was going on, up went more statues: Meadow Gold Mack, Cowboy Bob and Rosie the Riveter. The latter, she says, was created in honor of Tulsa developer, Meadow Gold District Association member, and statue supporter Aaron Meek, whose mother was an actual “Rosie the Riveter” factory worker during World War II.

And, while the statues were all overseen by Mark Cline and shipped to her from Virginia, Babcock has made sure they also reflect local artistry. Such accoutrements as Stella’s ray gun, jet pack and bracelet and the rocket Buck holds, for instance, were done by Tulsa-area creators.

Babcock laughs when asked if more big statues could be on the way to the Land of the Giants.

What are some financial considerations for a home remodel?

When the broader housing market feels unpredictable, homeowners may look to refresh their current home instead of relocating. If you’re considering a home renovation, keep the following tips in mind: 1. Set a realistic budget. Know how much you can spend before you ask for the moon. Remodeling projects are notorious for running over budget and past deadlines. 2. Save up for your project. Home remodels can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Typically, you’ll need to be prepared to make a down payment (ranging from 10% to 50% of the total estimated cost) when you sign a contract. 3. Consider how your plans will impact your home’s resale value. In general, kitchen and bath remodels lead the list of value-add projects. Many other home enhancements provide only a nominal return on investment, and some can even lessen your home’s resale value. 4. Choose a reputable partner. It’s imperative to find a licensed and insured remodeling contractor who delivers quality work, on time and within budget. 5. Keep good records. Maintain a paper or digital trail to account for project expenses. Get receipts for all payments to your contractor, whether made by check, credit card, or cash.

David Karimian, CFP®, CRPC®, APMA® Prime Wealth Management A private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial 2431 E 61st St, Suite 400, Tulsa, OK 74136 918.388.2009

David.x.Karimian@ampf.com www.primewealthmgmt.com

Is there a treatment for cellulite reduction and skin tightening that has no downtime?

PROOF Please read your ad carefully!

Dear Advertiser—this is your final opportunity to correct errors that may have occurred during the production of your errors may have occurred during the importing process. Corrections due to our errors are free of charge. Redesign or copy changes at this stage of production will result in additional charges of $35.00 per change. Please We need to hear from you within 24 hours of the date we sent. If we fax your ad on Friday, your response is due the If we do not hear from you within 24 hours, your ad will print as it appears in this transmission. AD

“Ooh, that is yet to be seen,” she says. “But I’ve seen the magic that Buck brings, the people taking pictures with him, making memories with their families. Of course, back in the day these statues were made to reel people into your shop and, yes, people do come into the shop and want to buy a little souvenir. But I didn’t even know what I wanted when I started this. I just know that what the statues are doing now is filling my heart. And what’s beautiful is that they’re not only helping me, but they’re helping my neighbors. They’re helping the city. They’re helping the state. I just met with [the tourism and convention bureau] Visit Tulsa, and they want to talk about using Rosie and Stella for a women’s program. So it’s neat how they’re influencing people and getting them to be creative.

CHECKLIST: Place a x to indicate you have thoroughly reviewed and proofed each item; please indicate any needed

nLogo_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

n Phone number, address__________________________________________________________________________________________________

n Spelling__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

“You know,” she adds, “people over the past couple of years have been saying to me, ‘What are you doing for the [Route 66] centennial?’ And so I thought, ‘Well, I’m going to make more giants, create more experiences for people traveling Route 66.’ That was actually another motivation. I just thought, ‘Why not?’”

At Fig Medical Spa, we use a radiofrequency system utilizing FDA-approved channel-optimizing RF energy technology that delivers incredible results in the treatment of cellulite and skin tightening. This technology simultaneously delivers heat to multiple layers of the skin while also using vacuum therapy to enhance the penetration of RF energy, increasing local blood circulation, and promoting lymphatic drainage. The procedure is pain-free, non-invasive and has zero downtime. It is great for all skin types and can be performed year-round. Results are tightened, smoother skin, reduction of circumferential fat and improvement in cellulite. Most patients notice results immediately after treatment with continued improvement over the next few months. The most popular treatment areas are the arms, thighs, buttocks, abdomen, flanks and neck (under the chin). This RF treatment is perfect for patients who have stubborn cellulite, wrinkled or crepey skin, or mild to moderate skin laxity. To schedule an appointment or find out more information on skin tightening, call Fig Medical Spa at 918-932-8810.

Cristie Lehr-Hawkins. M.D., Fig - For Inner Good - Medical Spa 8921 S Yale Ave - Tulsa, OK 74137 918.932.8810 - figtulsa.com

n Ad approved-no changes, Advertiser’s Signature___________________________________________Date____________________________

JOHN WOOLEY

materials is

Life & Style

A MAP TO LIVING WELL

One of the Seven Stans

From a sleek capital and Silk Road history to soaring peaks and alpine lakes, Tajikistan proves that this “land of” is defined as much by dramatic elevation as it is by culture.

The suffix stan means “where one stands” or “land of,” so Tajikistan becomes land of the Tajiks, just as Scotland is the land of the Scots. In this case, the 'stan' has a lot of up and down to it. Ninety percent of Tajikistan is mountainous, and half of it is above 9,800 feet.

Except for China to the east, Tajikistan is surrounded by most of the other 'stans,' including Afghanistan to the south, which makes travel to that part of the country dicey. And steer clear of eastern Tajikistan, too – a little lawless. But that’s okay. The country has plenty going on elsewhere.

The country’s modern capital of Dushanbe (in the west) provides a comfort-

able home base to explore the metro of a million and nearby mountains. Dushanbe is so modern, much of its utilitarian Soviet-era architecture has been replaced with ambitious skyscrapers on wide avenues flanked by trees and art. The name Dushanbe means “Monday” in Tajik, so-named because for many years, Dushanbe was the only market town open on Mondays.

Those with a taste for history will enjoy the National Museum of Antiquities, where a 42-foot statue of Buddha in Nirvana lies in repose, skeletons still wear their jewelry and artifacts represent thousands of years and half a dozen cultures.

Head to the impressive Istiklol Monument, completed five years ago, for art

by local artists on the lower floors and an observation deck on the 14th floor. In the evenings, the surrounding fountains dance in a multihued light show.

Take time for a leisurely stroll through Rudaki Park, named after the beloved Persian poet. Fountains, statues, outdoor art, gardens and a large lake fill the space, which is adjacent to Flag Pole Park, home of the fifth-largest flag pole in the world. The flag it flies weighs 1,540 pounds.

Nearby is a stunning 80-foot statue of longtime Persian ruler Ismoil Somoni. The nation’s currency, the somoni, is named after him. And just beyond that is the National Museum of Tajikistan, a sprawling museum built in 1934 with a concentration on art and history.

Teahouses are called Chaykhana and they’re ubiquitous in Dushanbe, from the small and quaint to the cavernous. Two of the most notable are Toqi, known for its pilaf, and the National Tea House, shaped to resemble a watermelon, a key fruit in Tajik culture. Nowruz Palace began as a simple teahouse on Komsomol Lake, but then things got out of hand. Now it’s the largest in the world with in-

tricate wood carvings, gold leaf ceilings and stained glass.

North and west of Dushanbe, the Fann Mountains are spiked with rugged, snow-capped peaks, some above 16,000 feet, offering all levels of hiking and climbing. For the adventurous, dozens of deep blue Alpine lakes and cascading waterfalls are hikeable, including Iskanderkul, once dubbed the Soviet Union’s most beautiful lake. Many glaciers can be found in the high country, some quite big.

Until the 15th century, the legendary Silk Road carried goods between East and West across Tajikistan’s mountainous terrain: jade, ivory, spices and muchsought-after textiles, especially silk from China. Today’s shoppers flock to mega retail complexes like the three-story Mehrgon Bazaar, whose architecture was inspired by the Silk Road and whose emphasis is food.

Persian flavors dominate Tajikistan’s cuisine with mutton featured in many dishes, such as osh, a rice and meat pilaf. Kurutob is also popular, made with yogurt, coriander, onions and flatbread. Qaymaq is a creamy mix of scrambled eggs and greens, and baklava can be found on many restaurant menus.

Stay at the Dushanbe Serena Hotel, a sophisticated glass tower with a spa, minutes from museums and great dining in the heart of the city.

Easing Chronic Pain

A pain medicine physician discusses what, exactly, chronic pain is, and how medical intervention outside opioid usage can help.

According to the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention, an estimated 20% of U.S. adults live with chronic pain. Whether it’s the result of an injury or a medical condition, those suffering from chronic pain often experience limited mobility, additional health problems and mental health issues.

Samuel Korbe, M.D., is a pain medicine physician with Warren Clinic Pain Management in Tulsa. He specializes in the diagnosis, care and treatment of pain-related conditions and explains

some of the impacts of chronic pain.

“If you break your arm, it’s very painful at first, but then your body begins to heal itself,” says Kobe. “Within a week it’s going to hurt less, and then in four to six weeks, your cast comes off and your arm is back to normal.”

Chronic pain, however, operates differently.

“With chronic pain, there has been an injury of some kind, but the pain remains and can be daily and unrelenting,” he explains. “People who experience pain in this way can feel hopeless, like there’s no end in sight, and it can affect their mental health and cause additional health effects.”

Korbe shares that many patients may also be dealing with trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), such as those who have had near-death experiences from a car accident or other injury event.

“Trauma, PTSD and psychological stress can compound chronic pain,” he says. “It’s important for patients to have a strong support system of family and friends to help them cope with both the physical and mental aspects of managing chronic pain.”

In the past, pain management often involved the use of opioids. However, after the opioid crisis revealed the devastating consequences of overuse, there have been significant changes in

regulations as well as treatment plans.

“Opioids were previously over-emphasized with tragic results,” Korbe says. “While opioids can be extremely beneficial in certain situations, in the long run, they’re going to make things worse. We want people to live the healthiest and happiest lives they can, so we use as many different medical options as we can and try to minimize any opioid exposure as much as possible.”

Within Warren Clinic’s interventional pain clinic, treatment plans can include steroid injections, spinal cord stimulation, kyphoplasty, nerve blocks and ablations, where specialized heated needles help desensitize targeted nerves to provide more long-term pain relief.

Korbe also emphasizes the importance of exercise and physical therapy, noting that for anyone worried about their current pain or developing chronic pain, exercise is the number one preventive measure.

“As humans, we are made to be able to walk, to run, to carry things, to lift things and put them up over our head,” he says. “If we stop doing them, then it’s going to become harder and harder to do those in the future. How you live your life, your diet, your exercise, your lifestyle is one of the greatest factors within your control to try and avoid living with chronic pain.”

REBECCA FAST

Every Drop Counts

As drought conditions persist across Oklahoma, small changes at home can protect water supplies for today and the future.

Water conservation matters in Oklahoma

because our water resources are limited — and must support both today’s needs and those of future generations.

“With abnormally dry conditions across much of the state, and some portions of Oklahoma facing extreme drought, it’s important for everyone to do their part to conserve water,” says Kevin Wagner, Ph.D., the Oklahoma Water Resources Center director at Oklahoma State University.

The City of Oklahoma City Utilities Department’s Water Conservation Specialist, Kelsey Whorton, agrees that water conservation is critical.

“By using water wisely, we protect our rivers, lakes and groundwater while ensuring a reliable supply for homes, businesses and communities across the state,” she says.

Whorton says the two most common causes of high water bills are leaking toilets and broken or inefficient automatic irrigation systems, but adds that families can save thousands of gallons annually

by incorporating certain habits.

“It is estimated that homeowners use two to four times more water in the summer,” says Wagner. “But conserving water year-round supports reliable water supplies throughout Oklahoma. Some things you can do are fix leaking faucets and fixtures, and implement water-conserving lawn and landscape strategies.”

Whorton mentions that conserving water inside can be simple.

“Turn off the faucet while you brush your teeth, shorten your showers and make sure you run the dishwasher or clothes washer only when you have a full load. Regularly check around your home for water leaks and make repairs to avoid surprise high water bills. Upgrade water-using appliances and fixtures to more water-efficient models.”

Small leaks can waste thousands of gallons of water monthly, and Wagner says that “according to the EPA, a leaky faucet that drips at the rate of one drip per second can waste more than 3,000 gallons per year. A leaking toilet can waste 15,000 gallons of water per month.”

Around your home’s exterior, make sure to regularly check automatic irri-

gation systems for leaks or broken parts, excessive run times and hidden programs.

“Often, reducing run time, or number of days per week that you water your lawn, can save thousands of gallons per month with little impact to your lawn’s health,” says Whorton. “Incorporating more drought-tolerant and native plant species is a way to reduce water use outdoors. These plants have adapted to our climate and can withstand periods of dry conditions.”

Outdoor water use in Oklahoma accounts for about 30% of residential water use, according to Wagner, who says that “mulching and using drip irrigation to water flowerbeds and using new irrigation technology can curb outdoor water use and save money.”

CAROL MOWDY BOND

Where to Learn More

“Water conservation, whether from producers or homeowners, is increasingly important for many areas of Oklahoma,” says Wagner.

“Areas like the Ogallala Aquifer have seen declining water levels for years, highlighting practices such as the OSU Extension’s Master Irrigation Program, which provides advanced training on irrigation water management and water conservation.”

OSU’s Oklahoma Water Resources Center has tips for everything from preparing pipes for winter, water conservation year round, and ways to check for leaks, to the latest information and research.

For a DIY sprinkler system checkup, or how to efficiently program an irrigation controller, go to SqueezeEveryDrop.com.

Mystery in the Mountains

From Viking lore to winding mountain byways, Heavener offers a uniquely immersive Oklahoma getaway.

Whether you’re hiking in search of ancient mysteries, cruising scenic byways or casting a line in pristine lakes, Heavener, Oklahoma, offers a wealth of outdoor adventures and historical explorations in the heart of the Ouachita Mountains. This southeastern Oklahoma town in Le Flore County invites visitors to trek wooded trails, camp under starry skies, picnic with panoramic views and delve into Viking lore at its famed runestone park. Beyond the trails, drive the winding Talimena National Scenic Byway for breathtaking overlooks, or head to nearby Lake Wister State Park for boating, fishing and family-friendly recreation. With a close-knit community vibe, Heavener blends history, mystery and nature

into unforgettable experiences.

A small town of about 3,000 residents, Heavener thrives on manufacturing, retail and growing tourism drawn to its natural beauty and intriguing past.

At the heart of Heavener’s allure is the Heavener Runestone Park, a scenic wonder and historic gem that draws guests intrigued by its enigmatic ancient runestone. This large sandstone slab, inscribed with runes, is believed by some to be a Viking marker dating back to around 1000 AD, suggesting Norse explorers ventured far inland via rivers like the Mississippi and Arkansas. Discovered in the 1920s, the stone’s origins remain controversial as some historians argue it’s a 19th-century hoax or creation by Scandinavian immigrants or locals. Regardless, the park, operated by the Friends of Heavener Runestone Inc. nonprofit, offers hiking trails, camping, picnicking and views of the surrounding forested hills.

“In 2011, the state did away with some parks including this one, so it was given to the City of Heavener, even if not in the city limits,” says Lynn Webster, president of Friends of Heavener Runestone Inc. “A nonprofit was formed to run it and operate it. It’s a free park, doesn’t cost to park or see the stones, operates off of donations, events, fundraisers and the gift shop.”

The Heavener Runestone Park Trail System enhances the experience, with paths winding through lush woodlands, leading to overlooks and the runestone itself. It’s ideal for hikers seeking moderate treks amid wildflowers and wildlife.

Beyond the park, Heavener serves as a key access point to the Talimena National Scenic Byway, a 54-mile stretch from Talihina to Mena, Arkansas. Built in the 1960s for panoramic vistas, the byway meanders along mountain ridges, offering overlooks and short trails. From Heavener, travelers can connect via Highway 271.

Just a short drive away, Lake Wister State Park spans 3,428 acres on the shores of Lake Wister, providing opportunities for boating, fishing, camping and hiking along 115 miles of shoreline. With cabins, RV sites, playgrounds and access to the Poteau River, it’s a family friendly haven for water enthusiasts.

Heavener embodies the spirit of rural Oklahoma: rich in lore, surrounded by natural wonders, and welcoming to explorers. Whether unraveling Viking mysteries or cruising scenic byways, this area invites visitors to disconnect and discover its timeless charm.

The Five Pillars of Healthy Aging

From nutrition and movement to meaningful conversations with doctors, healthy aging is about more than managing symptoms.

Caring for both body and mind becomes a powerful way to stay steady, strong and independent as people age.

Five areas of focus: mind, mobility, medications, multi-complexity and what matters most – help healthcare providers deliver holistic, patient-centered care, addressing the unique needs of older adults by looking beyond individual diseases to their overall well-being, according to Kathy Thompson, M.D., assistant professor of medicine at the Reynolds Section of Geriatric Medicine at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center and medical director at Epworth Villa, a retirement community in Oklahoma City.

“Nobody asks for dementia,” she says. “Nobody wants cognitive decline, so maintaining cognition is important. One

of the ways to keep our minds as healthy as possible is simply the same thing that’s been said over and over: good nutrition and exercise.”

Orthopedic surgeon Yogesh Mittal, M.D., of the Orthopaedic Center in Tulsa, explains that the nutrition basics to prioritize are staying well hydrated and eating enough high-quality protein, fiber and healthy fats to support muscle strength, digestion and energy.

“Brain-healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish rich in omega-3s, nuts and olive oil, along with limiting processed foods and added sugars, help protect cognitive function and reduce inflammation,” he says.

Treating depression or comorbidities, like smoking, diabetes and heart disease, also are important to protecting cognitive health.

“There are some things that we can’t change, like our genetics, “ Thompson says, “but there are other things that we can change — and that’s where we as geriatricians try to help people focus.”

Mobility is essential as people age because it supports independence, reduces the risk of falls and allows older adults to remain active and confident in daily life.

“As we age, we need to focus on strength to decrease the risk of falls,” Mittal says. “This should involve exercise for balance, strength and flexibility on a daily basis.”

Mittal recommends trying to focus on simple, progressive exercises like heel-totoe walks, single-leg stands, feet together stands, side leg raises or marching, sitto-stands, toe raises, wall push-ups and resistance moves such as bicep curls.

“Patients can also incorporate mindbody activities like Tai Chi to enhance body awareness and flexibility and chair

yoga for low-impact strength and mobility,” he says.

Managing various medications is another important component to healthy aging.

“Often, people are put on medications for a very good medical reason, and then over time, they may not need it because of the way our bodies change as we age,” Thompson says. “Every patient that I see gets a medication reconciliation and review. A lot of times, people don’t need some of the medicines that they’re on.”

Multi-complexity refers to helping people manage their own health conditions, medications and social factors that interact with one another, requiring a comprehensive, coordinated approach to care.

“Helping people be aware of what’s out there to help them is part of my job,” Thompson says. “When somebody is 80 or 90, they have many years of medical history, and that can be overwhelming.”

Determining what matters most is a conversation for older adults and their loved ones to have with a caring doctor.

“It’s my job to tell you everything I know, and then it’s your decision to make about what’s right for you,” Thompson says. “And whatever you decide, I respect that, even if it’s something that I recommend and you don’t want to do it.”

There’s power in preventative care when it comes to aging.

“It truly can lower the risks of chronic diseases, prevent serious complications and even help avoid premature deaths by catching issues early when they’re most treatable,” Mittal says.

GRETCHEN EICHENBERG

HIGHER ED, RECALCULATED

From updated AI policy to career-focused credentials, the future of higher education in Oklahoma is taking shape.

By Kimberly Burk

At the University of Oklahoma, leaders are engaging students and families earlier – shaping college decisions and building relationships that support long-term success. Photo courtesy OU

The New Higher Education Landscape

A university education is expensive, and today’s students are increasingly seeking accommodations such as flexible schedules and better mental health support.

At Oklahoma Panhandle State University, “we do not equate flexibility with less rigor,” says university president Julie Dinger, Ph.D. “We see it as a modern delivery method paired with clear expectations. We are expanding both real-time and asynchronous options that reflect how students live and work today, including jobs, family responsibilities and rural distance, while still holding firm on professional standards such as attendance, deadlines, communication and integrity.”

Dinger says many OPSU programs offer flexible schedules, “but they still demand performance, communication and reliability, which are the skills employers consistently seek in OPSU graduates. Real-world readiness is the through-line in all of this.”

OPSU has expanded mental health support “in ways that meet students where they are,” Dinger says.

“In addition to a full-time licensed counselor on campus, OPSU students have free, 24/7 access to virtual health and well-being services through TimelyCare. This includes on-demand emotional support, scheduled counseling and self-care resources, with no insurance required. In a rural region like ours, on-demand access matters, and it reduces stigma by allowing students to seek help privately and quickly,” Dinger says.

Today’s higher education landscape is also competitive, as students and their families search for the universities they think will give them their best return on investment.

At the University of Oklahoma, “building relationships with prospective students and their families is one of our top priorities,” says Danielle Dunn, assistant vice president and director of communications and marketing for the Division of Enrollment Management. “The earlier we can connect with students and start building those relationships, the more we can help them through the college selection process.”

Dinger says that at OPSU, “we compete by being unmistakably clear about our value. OPSU offers a high-touch, workforce-aligned education that is affordable and truly life-changing for rural Oklahoma and the broader region. At the same time, we are doing the hard internal work required to remain strong and sustainable for the long term. One example is the expansion of career-focused pathways through programs like Panhandle Tech, which allows high school students to earn college credit while completing a career certificate before they graduate.”

Along with student and family relationships, OU works “to build positive working relationships with high school administrators, teachers and community partners,” Dunn says. “As part of the recruitment process, prospective students and their families can tour campus, meet with professors and academic deans, engage with student life, participate in

In high-demand fields like aviation, healthcare and advanced manufacturing, OCCC works closely with industry partners to ensure programs align with workforce needs. Photo courtesy OCCC

OCCC’s president, Mautra Staley Jones, describes the college as an innovation hub - a “responsive, studentcentered institution designed to meet the evolving needs of our community and state.”

Photo courtesy OCCC

events and talk with current students. It is important students start to imagine themselves as members of the OU community.”

OPSU is ranked No. 1 in Oklahoma for affordability by NASDAQ and No. 1 for social mobility by Third Way and U.S. News and World Report, Dinger says.

“These outcomes reflect our commitment to access, student success and meaningful return on investment for students and families,” she says.

Dunn says that “throughout a student’s college journey, we communicate the value of an OU education, not just for the next four years, but for a lifetime. We know college is a significant investment, and OU is committed to affordability and access.”

Artificial intelligence can accelerate learning and work, “but it cannot replace learning and work,” says Dinger. “We are approaching AI the same way we approach any powerful tool, by using it to raise the level of learning and service, not to bypass thinking. We are integrating AI where it improves effectiveness, such as analysis, drafting support and process efficiency, while putting guardrails in place around transparency, documentation and academic standards.”

In teaching and learning, “AI is positioned as a learning partner rather than a substitute for student effort,” Dinger continues. “It may support brainstorming, practice and revision, but mastery is demonstrated through human work such as in-class writing, oral defense, labs, authentic projects and documented learning processes. The goal is clear. AI can support the work, but it cannot replace the student’s thinking.”

At Tulsa Community College, “the focus is on teaching students to use AI thoughtfully and responsibly,” says spokesperson Kelsey Kane. “Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, faculty have the flexibility to set AI guidelines that make sense for their courses.

“AI is also being used in practical ways, such as in Career Services, where tools help students prepare for job interviews and salary negotiations. The library is introducing AI literacy sessions to explore when and how it might be appropriate to use AI for research.”

Dinger says that on the operations side, “we are focused on practical, well-governed uses. These include drafting and summarizing routine communications, streamlining administrative workflows and reducing repetitive tasks so faculty and staff can spend more time working directly with students. This aligns with OPSU’s broader focus on adapting to emerging technologies while strengthening critical thinking and technological fluency.”

Dinger says OPSU “has moved beyond discussion and into formal policy with clear alignment to academic integrity. The university has adopted an Academic Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence policy that acknowledges student access to Copilot through Microsoft 365 and clearly defines when AI use is allowed or prohibited based on the

is the Tulsa area’s only residential public university.

O ering a worldclass collegiate experience at a ordable prices, RSU is the place to earn your degree, graduate with little or no student debt, know your professors personally, and start your career prepared to succeed and advance.

✓ Programs in today’s top fields, on campus and online.

✓ Additional scholarship support for freshmen and transfers.

✓ Ranked among the top 25 colleges in the west by U.S. News and World Report.

“We compete by being unmistakably clear about our value,” says OPSU president Julie Dinger, Ph.D. “OPSU offers high-touch, workforce-aligned education that is affordable and truly life-changing for rural Oklahoma.” Photo courtesy OPSU

course and specific assignment.”

When AI use is permitted, “disclosure is required,” Dinger says. “Students must include a statement describing how AI was used, including prompts, outputs, how those outputs informed their work and proper citation of the tool and version.”

In the end, Dinger says, “Academic integrity serves as the enforcement backbone. Unauthorized, undocumented or unethical use of AI is treated the same as other academic integrity violations, including plagiarism. OPSU also maintains publicly available academic integrity standards and clearly defined violation categories to ensure consistency, transparency and fairness.”

At OPSU, hands-on learning is part of a well-rounded, holistic education. Photo courtesy OPSU

Community colleges across Oklahoma are redefining what it means to prepare students for today’s workforce and tomorrow’s opportunities, says Mautra Staley Jones, Ed.D., president of Oklahoma City Community College.

“We see ourselves not only as places of learning, but as innovation hubs – responsive, student-centered institutions designed to meet the evolving needs of our communities and our state,” Jones says. “In high-demand fields such as aviation, healthcare and advanced manufacturing, OCCC works closely with industry partners to ensure that our programs align with real workforce needs. These short-term, high-impact credentials allow students to quickly gain relevant skills, earn industry-recognized certifications, and enter the workforce with confidence,” Jones says.

For many students, such programs provide immediate economic mobility while serving as a foundation for continued education, Jones says.

“Community colleges are well-positioned to respond to workforce needs because of our close ties to the communities we serve,” says Angela Sivadon, Ph.D., senior vice president and chief academic officer for Tulsa Community College. “At TCC, industry advisory boards help shape certificate programs in areas like manufacturing, healthcare, aviation and tech by providing input on the skills employers are looking for. These relationships allow us to launch and adjust programs quickly while giving students an accessible path to in-demand careers. We also anticipate Workforce Pell Grants to open the door for more students to afford short-term training in highdemand fields.”

Equally important is the role community colleges play in supporting transfers to four-year institutions, Jones says.

“At OCCC, we have built strong partnerships with universities across Oklahoma and beyond, creating clear academic pathways that allow students to transfer credits efficiently and with purpose,” Jones says. “Through small class sizes, personalized advising, tutoring, mentoring programs and wrap- around services, we help students identify their strengths, clarify their goals and believe in their ability to succeed at the next level. By the time they transfer, our students meet the academic requirements and arrive prepared to excel,” Jones says.

Sivadon continues: “Our goal is to make transferring from TCC to a four-year university seamless and affordable,” Sivadon says. “We work closely with university transfer partners to align coursework, so students know early which classes will count toward a bachelor’s degree. TCC offers more than 170 bachelor’s degree pathways to over 15 universities, supported by transfer maps that lay out a semester-bysemester plan.”

Students can explore options through TCC’s Transfer Map Search tool, get support at transfer centers on all four main campuses and participate in transfer events, Sivadon says.

“Through a new partnership with the Tulsa Higher Education Consortium, we can also provide transportation for students to visit university partners for campus tours and transfer preview days,” Sivadon concludes.

A shining star in Oklahoma’s educational landscape is its CareerTech system, a network of 29 technology centers on 63 campuses across the state.

The technology centers serve high school and adult learners with specialized career training in more than 90 instructional areas.

High school students who live within a technology center district attend tuition-free, while adults pay a nominal tuition rate.

Students receive training in such fields as aviation, health care, HVAC, automotive, agriculture, hospitality, criminal justice, manufacturing, cosmetology and information technology.

Each technology center works closely with advisers from local industries to ensure students learn the skills needed to be valued members of the workforce.

With an annual enrollment of more than 520,000, CareerTech provides nationally recognized competency-based curriculum, education and training for specialized and customized courses and training opportunities. The curriculum is developed with the input of industry professionals to identify the knowledge needed to master an occupation, according to the website of the Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education.

“We know that college is a significant investment,” says OU rep Danielle Dunn. “And OU is committed to affordability and access.” Photo courtesy OU

The workforce is asking for graduates who have obtained a competency-driven education, and high education is responding.

“There is absolutely momentum in higher education toward competency-driven general education, particularly in areas like communication, critical thinking, digital and information literacy, quantitative reasoning, teamwork and ethical reasoning,” says Dinger.

“Employers and communities are asking for graduates who can apply what they know, not just recall information.”

At OPSU, Dinger says, “our general education foundation already emphasizes core competencies such as oral and written communication, analytical and quantitative reasoning and social responsibility and cultural awareness.”

Cascia Hall is more than a college preparatory school it’s a community. The Augustinian values of Truth, Unity, and Love animate the Cascia community, and they create an authentic experience of acceptance and belonging The community is a big reason we chose Cascia for our kids, but we also chose Cascia knowing it’s a place where our children will grow in their faith, build lifelong relationships, and be challenged daily to recognize and fulfill their potential - Jim Farrell ‘95, current parent

1.3MM

Private School Guide

Crossings Christian School 14400 N. Portland Ave., Oklahoma City/ 405842-8495/crossingsschool.org

Mizel Jewish Community Day School

Hall

E. 71st St., Tulsa/918-494-0953/ mizelschool.org

N.W. 122nd St., OKC/405-749-3001/ heritagehall.com

Holland Hall 5666 E. 81st St., Tulsa/918-481-1111/ hollandhall.org

Aesthetics: A Subtle Science

As plastic surgery and aesthetics evolve, today’s most sought-after treatments focus on natural-looking results, shorter recovery times and long-term health. Experts share how technology, technique and transparency are shaping a more refined era of enhancement.

By Rebecca Fast

THE ART OF ‘SUBTLE’ PLASTIC SURGERY

As plastic surgery continues to evolve, there’s been a trend toward more subtle, yet significant, improvements to one’s appearance. Two plastic surgeons share insights on the newest technologies and procedures delivering natural-looking results.

The Rise of Minimally Invasive Treatments

“We have seen a resurgence of minimally invasive, office-based treatments that can help restore a more youthful and natural-looking face,” explains Mark Mims, M.D., a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon

with OU Health in Oklahoma City.

One common procedure is radiofrequency microneedling, which can significantly improve the texture and quality of the skin. The procedure works for all skin types and delivers noticeable results with only a few days of recovery.

He says red light therapy has also surged in popularity. Using ‘photobiomodulation,’ this treatment stimulates skin cells to boost collagen and elastin production. Early results are encouraging for improving complexion, texture and fine wrinkles, though long-term studies are ongoing.

The Evolution of Classic Treatments

“In addition to brand new technologies, the tried-and-true formulations have also received ‘glow ups,’” says Mims. “For Botox, we are seeing a

much higher percentage of patients coming in their 20s and 30s to prevent the occurrence of wrinkles, rather than treating them once they form. Some of the newer formulations of Botox can last much longer than the standard 3-4 months, allowing patients more time between treatments.”

In addition, hyaluronic acid fillers now offer extended longevity, and some formulations stimulate the body’s natural collagen production, leading to better results with fewer treatments needed over time.

The Appeal of ‘Low Visibility’ Procedures

Today’s patients are increasingly choosing target adjustments over dramatic transformations.

“Procedures with low downtime and natural results have certainly increased in popularity recently, and for good reason,” explains Mims. “The ability to look refreshed without a month of downtime fits into our active lifestyle much easier than more aggressive procedures.”

Upper and lower blepharoplasty remain the most requested procedures, allowing for a more ‘awake’ appearance with minimal downtime – typically about one week. Endoscopic brow lifts are another popular option, providing subtle changes through hidden incisions and quick recovery. Results are immediate and restore a more youthful appearance to the upper two-thirds of the face.

Mims adds that improved postoperative recovery protocols now help patients return to their lives quicker than ever.

When More Dramatic Results Are Desired

For anyone wanting more dramatic results, Mims says facelifts remain the gold standard.

“Although many treatments can provide subtle improvements, the facelift allows for a much more robust correction, and one that can lead to the longest-lasting results,” he says. However, he emphasizes that facelifts are not one-size-fits-all. The approach must be individualized to each patient’s needs and age.

“For patients under 50, a deep plane approach may be more than they need to achieve the natural results they are looking for and a ‘SMAS-only’ lift may be more appropriate,” says Mims. “This technique allows for quicker recovery while bringing youth back to the face and neck. For our patients over 50, the deep plane approach is often the best choice. Despite the longer recovery time, it will yield the best results and truly allow you to turn back the clock.”

Facial plastic surgeon Ivan Wayne, M.D., owner of W Facial Aesthetics in Oklahoma City, sees patients foregoing temporary fixes and following the path of many celebrities who have had their fillers dissolved and opted for a more natural-looking facelift.

“When it comes to facelifts, significant evolution has occurred over the last five years,” says Wayne. “The current premier surgery is a deep plane facelift, which is an old technique, but using a more modern version that involves very short skin flaps, creating a more vertical lift that looks more natural, avoiding the pulled look. This is often combined with conservative fat grafting, using the patient’s own body fat as a filler to rejuvenate the face. Patients are also getting these facelifts at a much younger age and they have been described as the “forever 35 facelift” because you can stay looking 35 for many years if you start early.”

Wayne also says there’s a lot of interest in newer skin care treatments that contain peptides and growth factors.

“I have personally seen how effective these are in rejuvenating the skin,” he says.

PA-C, with Radiance

Choosing the Right Path Forward

Mims says with any facial rejuvenation journey, selecting the right procedure for the right patient is critical.

“One of the best pieces of advice I can give is to make sure you feel comfortable with your provider,” he says. “There are often multiple approaches to achieve the look you desire and a good relationship helps yield the best results and brings the highest satisfaction.”

A good provider should also be able to perform a detailed analysis of your specific aging pattern and individual desires for rejuvenation, as well as provide reasonable expectations for results and timelines. With the right approach and the right surgeon, facial rejuvenation can deliver the natural, refreshed appearance patients are looking for.

REGENERATIVE AESTHETICS TAKE CENTER STAGE

Harnessing the body’s natural healing abilities, regenerative aesthetics are transforming the skincare and cosmetic treatment industry.

Kasey L. Swayden, PA-C, owner of Radiance Medical Aesthetics of Oklahoma in Oklahoma City, says regenerative aesthetics have gained momentum because they align with how the body naturally heals and restores itself.

“Rather than simply adding volume or creating surface-level change, these treatments work by stimulating collagen production, improving cellular turnover, and strengthening the skin’s underlying structure,” Swayden explains. “When we activate the body’s own repair mecha-

ing skin, and that distinction really matters,” she says. “They also allow us to customize care based on each patient’s biology, lifestyle and goals, which leads to better outcomes and higher patient satisfaction.”

And this is just the beginning. Swayden describes regenerative aesthetics as one of the most exciting and rapidly evolving areas in the industry.

“We’re already seeing more refined technologies, improved delivery methods and better data supporting treatments that enhance tissue quality and skin integrity,” she notes. “As research continues to advance – particularly in stem-cell-adjacent therapies, adipose-derived biologics and bio-stimulatory devices – we’ll gain even more precise ways to improve skin health at a cellular level.”

What encourages her most is the shift toward evidence-based innovation.

“As providers, we’re becoming more discerning, and patients are more educated,” Swayden observes. “The future of regenerative aesthetics isn’t about trends, it’s about scientifically sound treatments that deliver measurable, sustainable results. I fully expect continued advancements that allow us to treat aging skin earlier, more proactively and with better long-term outcomes.”

ETHICAL MARKETING & TRANSPARENCY

Social media platforms have long been known to promote unrealistic beauty standards through filtered, digitally altered content. In response, skincare professionals are pushing back with transparency: sharing honest, unfiltered before-and-after images and educating clients on what’s truly achievable, both short-term and long-term.

“Social media has created a culture of instant, filtered perfection, which simply isn’t real or healthy,” says Swayden. “ I make it a point to educate patients on skin biology, aging and the purpose of each treatment. Many regenerative procedures are investments in future skin health, and that means results may unfold over weeks or months and require maintenance to sustain them.”

nisms, the results tend to look more natural, age more gracefully and improve overall skin quality over time.”

This approach resonates with patients seeking subtle, long-term improvement rather than drastic or artificial-looking transformations.

“Regenerative treatments support healthier skin, not just younger-look-

Clear communication, Swayden emphasizes, is foundational to patient trust.

“From the very first consultation, I focus on setting realistic expectations by explaining not only what a treatment can and cannot do, but how and when results occur,” she explains. “We’re very transparent about the difference between treatments that offer immediate gratification and those designed to stimulate change gradually over time.”

By prioritizing long-term strategies over quick fixes, her team helps patients reframe aesthetic care as an ongoing journey rather than a one-time event.

“When patients know what to expect –and why – they feel empowered, confident and far more satisfied with their results,” Swayden says.

Cristie Lehr-Hawkins, M.D., owner of Fig Medical Spa in Tulsa, shares both the positive and negative effects of social media.

“The good from social media is that it has increased awareness and accessibility to information while opening up important conversations about self-care and aesthetics,” says Lehr-Hawkins. “On the other hand, the negative impacts include misinformation, oversimplified before-and-after narratives and unre -

alistic expectations. Part of our role is to help educate patients and explain what can be achieved, how long the results will last and why ongoing personalized healthcare is so essential.”

She says no single treatment is a universal fix, and instead, a personalized approach considers many factors including one’s genetics, lifestyle, hormone levels and overall health.

“These variables are rarely addressed in a social media context and the need for combination therapies and ongoing maintenance is often overlooked,” says Lehr-Hawkins. “At our practice, we prioritize a personalized approach using science-based treatments over trend-driven aesthetics.”

HAIR RESTORATION

Men and women can experience hair loss for a variety of reasons, including genetics, hormonal shifts, stress and medical conditions. To help individuals restore and strengthen their hair, Fig Medical Spa offers hair treatments using the Alma TransEpidermal Delivery (TED) system.

“The TED hair treatment system is a non-invasive, needle-free option that uses sound waves and air pressure to deliver peptides and nutrients directly to the hair follicles and scalp,” says Lehr-Hawkins. “There’s no downtime or discomfort, and it can greatly reduce hair loss and shedding.”

While TED remains popular for treating hair loss and thinning – such as male and female pattern baldness – it is increasingly being used by patients with minimal hair loss who want thicker, shinier and healthier hair.

“A key trend we’re seeing is a growing focus on scalp health as the foundation for long-term hair quality,” says LehrHawkins. “There is a greater interest in preventive measures before significant hair loss occurs.”

LONGEVITY IN AESTHETICS

As people continue seeking ways to achieve a natural, longer-lasting youthful glow, the field of aesthetics has shifted to include hormone balancing, metabolic testing and peptide protocols to address the underlying physiological factors that impact aging and appearance.

“There is a clear move away from quick cosmetic fixes toward longevity-focused, regenerative aesthetics,” says LehrHawkins. “Patients are more proactive, informed and interested in addressing the root causes of aging, not just external symptoms.”

With this holistic focus, treatment plans may include hormone testing and balancing, peptide protocols and metabolic and inflammatory optimization, along with external skin care products and non-invasive procedures.

“With regenerative aesthetics, our goal is to stimulate the body’s own repair mechanisms, not override them, resulting in subtle, natural-looking improvements that build over time,” says Lehr-Hawkins. “By taking a whole-body approach, we integrate hormone health, metabolic health, skincare and lifestyle factors to create a tailored treatment plan. The future of aesthetics is highly personalized – combining internal wellness strategies with advanced, non-invasive treatments to support both internal vitality and external appearance.”

LEVEL 1 TRAUMA CENTER LEVEL 1 TRAUMA CENTER

Ascension St. John Medical Center is always prepared for an emergency. As the first American College of Surgeons verified Level 1 Trauma Center in northeastern Oklahoma, our care teams have the right people, knowledge and tools to treat even the most severe and complex injuries, delivering lifesaving care when it matters most.

Scan the QR code or visit ascension.org/StJohn to find lifesaving care.

LOVE AT FIRST SIP LOVE AT FIRST SIP

There’s a lot to enjoy about

OKLAHOMA COCKTAIL CULTURE:

thoughtful bartenders, local ingredients, inventive programming & creative flavors, to name a few.

We discuss the state’s spirited social scene, suggest mindful drinking habits, offer some bar etiquette and showcase several Oklahoma pours worth falling for.

BY MARY WILLA ALLEN

Cocktail Culture

Whether you love a dark and dingy dive or a classy craft cocktail bar, drinking culture continues to evolve in Oklahoma. We lay out a few trends to watch in 2026.

Neighborhood bar experiences

While a fancy wine bar or sultry speakeasy is always a draw for drinkers, many folks are looking for a Cheers-esque, low-maintenance, welcoming experience in 2026. That’s not to say they aren’t still expecting excellent craft cocktails – they just want them in a no-fuss environment.

Non-alcoholic options

Many are looking to move away from alcohol entirely, focusing instead on other ways to get a “buzz.” You’ll likely see menus with nootropics, magnesium-infusions, THC cocktails and adaptogens in 2026. (Do I know what all of those mean? Nope!)

Seasonal and local cocktails

The next time you’re out, see how many bars and restaurants are offering seasonal cocktail menus, utilizing local liquors, in-season fruit and ingredients from around region. Support local, baby!

Martini time

We’ve been seeing a martini revival for awhile now, and it only seems to be growing in 2026. Whether you’re gunning for a classic dry gin version or something a bit more whimsical like an chocolate espresso iteration, they’ll be on every menu this year.

Maximalist presentation

Bold, dramatic drinks are taking center stage, with sensory elements like smoke, fire and edible garnishes. In short, bartenders are going all out.

An amplified Asian influence

Ingredients like yuzu, lychee, shiso, shochu and sake are making broader appearances in Western cocktail programs.

MINDFUL DRINKING

I know –

in a story about all things alcohol, it may be a bit eyerollinducing to discuss “mindful drinking.” But hey, moderation is key in most aspects of life! To be a mindful drinker, your habits don’t need to change drastically. Instead, you just need to approach the activity with awareness, intention and presence, rather than operating out of habit or on autopilot. Let’s dive into a few ways to enact mindful drinking:

Set an intention before your first sip.

Ask yourself “Why?” Are you celebrating, socializing or simply “taking the edge off” after a long day? No matter your answer, knowing your “why” can help you moderate.

Check in with yourself.

Pause occasionally to notice physical and mental clues. Ensure you’re hydrated, energized, happy and balancing out your imbibing with hearty food intake.

Avoid “obligatory” drinking.

If you don’t want to continue drinking at an event or even drink at all, don’t allow societal expectations or pressure to dictate your habits. If you’re worried about crumbling to a friend’s plea, grab a soda water with lime from the bar.

Plan alcohol-free days.

Regular drinking breaks can help you reset your habits and clarify your relationship with alcohol.

Be aware of your triggers.

Explore the emotional and situational reasons you may be tempted to drink – whether it’s stress, boredom or social anxiety. Is alcohol really serving the need you think it is in that situation?

Bar EtiquEttE

If you want to keep the bartender on your good side, follow these do’s and don’ts to curate the right vibe.

Do:

Read the menu.

It saves the bartender time explaining every option to you.

Be ready to order, concisely. Especially if the barkeep is in the middle of a rush.

Make eye contact.

While it may feel like a staredown, attempting to make eye contact with your bartender lets them know you’re ready to order.

Respect closing time.

You may not be ready to go home, but the bartender is. If the lights are on and chairs are stacked, you’ve already been lingering too long.

Order one drink at a time.

There’s no need to batch your drinks unless you’re buying a round.

Don’t:

Request a “strong drink.” If you want a double, ask for it – and be prepared to pay extra.

Be too afraid to ask for water. A bartender would much rather give you a glass of water than a dramatic escort to the door.

Monopolize a bartender’s attention. You are not their only customer. And hey, even if you are, they may not want to chat for two hours.

Save a seat at an overcrowded bar. While it may seem like you hit the jackpot by finding open seats at a busy bartop, every minute you hold that seat, you’re taking money away from the bartender.

Craft Beer

HigHlights

While the craft beer boom isn’t as burgeoning as it was ten years ago, Oklahoma harbors a bevy of taprooms with local offerings sure to entice.

Tulsa

American Solera

Known for globally inspired flavors and unique options, with a massive taproom

NEFF Brewing

An award-winning brewer with highlights including the Model X-331, a gluten-free Pale Ale

Marshall Brewing

An OG in the Oklahoma brewing world, Marshall’s favorites range from the Oktoberfest lager to the Big Jamoke porter

Nothing’s Left Brewing Co.

Espect small-batch brews alongside experimental flavors like mushroominfused peanut butter stouts

Oklahoma C ity

COOP Ale Works

An OKC brewing staple with a broad range of beers including the F5 IPA

Prairie Artisan Ales

Innovative and barrel-aged beers are the name of the game at one of OKC’s first breweries

Anthem Brewing

Offering a bevy of different beers, Anthem also scores points for its massive taproom with games galore

Skydance Brewing Co.

A Native-American owned brewery, Skydance touts award-winning options like the Fancy Dance IPA

CheersWorthy Options CheersWorthy Options

If you’re excited to ditch Dry January, order one of these gems at bars in Tulsa and OKC.

Light

Caipirinha da Terra

Maestro, Tulsa

Cachaca, mezel de ensamble, beet, tumeric, turbinado, lime

Margarita Picante

Maestro,

Two Cultures, One Chef

MAHT represents a new chapter for chef Kevin Lee, in which technique, heritage and confidence converge.

I’m not sure how tall chef Kevin Lee is, because he always seems much larger than life, and he’s always in motion. I last ran into him at his new restaurant MAHT, churning through the excited crowds – 5 p.m. on a Tuesday and the place was already packed – telling his friends what, given the hundreds of steakhouses in our region, sets this one apart.

“It’s exciting,” he gushes. “It’s fun! Just look at the bar!” He gestures at a long bar running the length of the narrow dining room. “It’s the best place to people-watch.” And indeed it is. But what sets this place apart from all the others is the food, which is very exciting, too, full of unexpected surprises such as scallop risotto with a Bearnaise sauce fortified with kimchi.

For his entire life, Lee has been bombarded with different food influences. He’s avidly sought them out and learned from them. His earliest childhood memories include beef tartare (he loved it) at home in Oklahoma, and a seafood breakfast in

Korea. His grandparents first exposed him to Korean food, and that’s an influence you can see in almost anything he cooks. He never thought of becoming a chef, though; he went to the University of Nevada at Las Vegas to study business. To support himself, he got a job at a local sushi restaurant. He loved it so much, he quit school and never looked back.

After training for two years under chef Josh Choi (now vice-president for culinary operations at Wynn Las Vegas), he returned home to Oklahoma. He became one of chef Kurt Fleischfresser’s Coach House apprentices, and then found work at Vast Restaurant, starting at the bottom and working his way up to executive chef. Later, he was the head chef at the Jones Assembly. He also was a frequent competitor on many Food Network shows – he was almost a regular on Beat Bobby Flay – terrified at first but, after a few appearances, suavely self-assured. Whenever he competed against a famous chef, he took the opportunity to learn new dishes and techniques. Lee was, it would seem,

at the peak of his profession... but he had never had the chance to cook the way he really wanted.

He got that chance in true Las Vegas gambler style: He put his life savings into building his own restaurant, Birdie’s Steakhouse. His risky gamble turned into a triumph, garnering a James Beard nomination for himself and success for Birdie’s. And now, with his second restaurant, MAHT, he has taken his game to a higher level.

“Birdie’s is,” Lee told me, “Korean food with an American twist. MAHT is a classic American steakhouse with a Korean twist.

Now I get to tell my story from both my cultures.”

In many steakhouses, the steak is the indisputable star of the show, and you’d be foolish not to order it. “Is that true here?” I asked Lee, “or are the appetizers and other entrees as good as the steaks?”

“Both!” he replied. And he’s right.

Lee has a way with steaks. It’s all too easy to ruin one, but here (and at Birdie’s), the steaks come firm, juicy and fabulous. But how to choose between that steak and entrees like Gochujiang glazed lamb chops with perilla yogurt sauce? Or soy-braised short rib or soy-marinated cod? Or bluefin tuna tataki with chili crunch avocado mousse? Perhaps the answer is to round up a posse of friends and foodies and try it all.

“I feel like I’ve come full circle,” Lee says. “My dad owned a Korean steakhouse in Korea. Now I own both a modern American steakhouse and a modern Korean steakhouse. I feel like I’ve done my family proud.”

BRIAN SCHWARTZ

Que Gusto

Fresh, handmade Ecuadorean food can be found in a nondescript downtown Tulsa location: Que Gusto. Run by a husband and wife team that moved from Ecuador in 2012, Que Gusto offers counter service quickness combined with the hospitality of a sitdown space.

Open 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday-Saturday, Que Gusto offers a varied menu for any time of day.

Start your day off right with fried plantains or a yogurt smoothie with tropical fruit purees and natural protein. Other early-morning goodies include yucca bread, patacones (plantain chips), morning oats with blueberries and coconut milk, or a berry parfait with organic Greek yogurt.

Lunch and dinner options abound. The restaurant is perhaps best known for its empanadas – so make sure to try at least one, with options including beef, chicken, pork, lamb, veggie or tomato and cheese. Other must-tries include the slow roasted pork sandwich, the arroz con pollo – Latin-style organic rice with chicken and veggies – as well as choripan, housemade pork sausage on a baguette with diced tomatoes and house-made, organic chimichurri sauce.

Que Gusto also offers its diners drink and dessert options, including tiramisu, tres leches, sweet plantain cake, house-made juices, organic coffee and a full bar.

Anton’s Craft Kitchen

If you’re on the hunt for American comfort food with a side of dazzling hospitality, look no further than Anton’s Craft Kitchen in OKC.

Even the pickiest eater can find something to like at Anton’s, with starters including onion rings, fried mozzarella sticks and spinach dip.

Burgers are just one of many stars on Anton’s menu, ranging from the bacon cheeseburger to the craft onion burger and Swiss mushroom iteration. If you’re feeling particularly carnivorous, try the 12 oz. ribeye smothered in buttered garlic sauce. Other entrees include the garlic lemon chicken, the shrimp maisa, the chicken Parmesan or the fried catfish.

If you’ve brought the kiddos, fear not – their own menu includes classics like cheese pizza, chicken fingers and spaghetti.

Top off the evening with pecan pie, Chicago-style cheesecake or tiramisu, and wash it all down with craft cocktails or an assortment of classic beers and wines.

MARY WILLA ALLEN

Bold Flavors with a Bite

Chefs Erik Fabrizius and Garett Lewis are putting a delectable twist on traditional Thai cuisine at Old Dog.

Erik Fabrizius, whose life was later to revolve around the swirling symphony of spice and flavor that is Thai cuisine, got his first introduction to the world of cooking from his grandmother on her Kansas farm. She’d make dinner for the entire extended family, cooking nonstop for hours, preparing Southern comfort dishes like fried chicken, the best Fabrizius has ever had. Finished, she’d sit down and light up a cigarette. Fabrizius still remembers the look of perfect joy on her face.

But when Fabrizius was seven, his family moved to Portland. After high school, he worked in restaurants, but he’d never tried Thai food until he got a job at Pok Pok – a local restaurant nationally famous for bringing the bold flavors of northern Thai cuisine to America. Eating there was a life-changing experience. Visits to Thailand with owner Andy Ricker made him fall in love, not only with a cuisine, but a culture.

For ten years he and his partner (“she

was a much better cook,” he says) made Thai food at home. When their relationship ended, Fabrizius moved to Tulsa. He got a job at the James Beard nominated chef’s collective called Et Al. There he met Garett Lewis. Lewis had grown up in Texas (like Fabrizius, his first food memory features his grandma’s home cooking). He kicked around the state, but didn’t find his life’s vocation until he ended up in Tulsa and joined Et Al, too. He did a dinner series called Pickles at the Barbecue, featuring his sophisticated take on Texas cuisine. Then he joined up with Fabrizius, and together they gave a one-day pop-up serving Thai food. People, including some of Tulsa’s most lauded chefs, lined up for hours to taste it. After that, they left Et Al and formed a cooking team called Old Dog.

Two or three times a week, Old Dog, its kitchen in a very vintage food truck and its dining room inside Heirloom Rustic Ales, offers one or two Thai dishes. Sounds like easy work, doesn’t it? Not quite.

“My model is street cooks in Thailand,”

says Fabrizius, “who devote their whole lives to preparing one dish. They refine that dish into an art form. And we don’t take short cuts.”

Let’s say they’re making a Thai gaeng (usually known as curry). A full 48 hours before service, they make the paste. Most Thai restaurants just buy the paste in cans, but the Old Dog chefs get fresh plants and rhizomes, including ginger and galangal, from a local farm. Then they grind it using a mortar and pestle. They let it sit for 24 hours, then make the curry, simmering it for four to eight hours in stock, adding extra flavors such as fresh tamarind juice. This sits another 24 hours, as the resting times amp up the flavor, and then it’s served to the crowd that has eagerly formed around their truck.

Unlike the Thai street cooks, Old Dog varies the dishes served.

“We have a natural curiosity and creativity,” Fabrizius says.

One week it might be khao soi, a glorious noodle soup with Indian spicing brought to Thailand over 100 years ago by Muslim traders from Burma. Another week it’s fried chicken. That’s Lewis’ recipe, and it reminds Fabrizius of his grandma’s dinners. Actually, most of the recipes are Lewis’.

“Garett is our lead chef,” says Fabrizius. “He’s such a talented chef.”

Lewis had never been outside the U.S. until a few weeks ago. Shortly after this interview, the pair left for Thailand. They traveled around the country, exploring each region’s cuisine, including the Northeast, Isaan, which is Fabrizius’s favorite cuisine.

“Garett’s food is so good now,” Fabrizius said before they left. “Imagine how magnificent it will be after we get back from Thailand.”

BRIAN SCHWARTZ

Feruzy’s Kitchen

Offering Nigerian, Caribbean and Southern American foods with a twist, Feruzy’s Kitchen is a unique and delicious restaurant located inside Tulsa’s Mother Road Market. The team also offers occasional pop-up events, and menus vary for those. However, you’re always able to snag delicious options including barbecue jerk wings, pork bites, birria jerk quesadillas, stewed pork and oxtails.

Other a la carte dishes range from jollof rice to plantains, puff puffs, and rice and peas. Wash it all down with a Guinness, Kola Champagne, watermelon soda or ginger beer.

Cobalt Bar & Grill

The newest Brookside staple, Cobalt Bar & Grill, offers classic American comfort food in relaxed digs.

Open at 11 a.m. daily, Cobalt offers brunch and lunch favorites like stuffed French toast, avocado toast, omelets, chicken and waffles, biscuits and gravy, and scramblers – three eggs with brunch potatoes or grits.

For those venturing in for lunch or dinner, there are options galore. From chili cheeseburgers to chicken Caesar wraps, chili cheese Frito pie and Philly cheese steaks, Cobalt has cornered the market on sports bar food. There are also plenty of salads for those watching their calorie in-ake, alongside upscale entrees like salmon, sirloin and the bone-in pork chop.

Of course, libations are ample – from craft cocktails to beers and wines.

Verde Craft Kitchen

A beloved fast-casual spot in downtown Oklahoma City, Verde Craft Kitchen is known for its fresh, flavorful fare and relaxed atmosphere.

Offering breakfast, brunch and lunch with a menu that blends comfort food with creative culinary choices, Verde presents a versatile menu to satisfy any craving.

First-time visitors to Verde should explore the varied bowl options. Try the Muay Thai bowl, with coconut rice, braised beef, cucumber, bell pepper and fried egg; or the Bahn Mi Bowl, with roasted chicken, pickled veggies, jalapeno and lime aioli.

Another highlight? The drunken tots – with braised beef, pico, green onion and bourbon aioli.

Other options include the verde tacos with bulgogi beef, the Smoak burger with elote and the Meltdown – a sandwich with housemade Focaccia, roasted turkey, pepperoni and mozzarella.

Ser.

Blending modern design with Mexican flair, Ser. is one of OKC’s hottest new restaurants.

Start with classic apps like queso and guacamole, or venture outside your comfort zone with Mahi-shrimp ceviche, tortas de marisco or cazuelitas – masa cups with pibil, borracho beans and Oaxaca.

Mains run the gamut, from enchiladas to burritos, shrimp diablo, tostadas, nachos and flautas. There’s also an entire menu section dedicated to tacos, with iterations including chicken, beef, fish and lengua – with chutney, jalapeno, blackberry crema, Cotija and cilantro.

Pair your food with a bevy of craft cocktails and you’ll have an evening to remember.

Where & When

GREAT THINGS TO DO IN OKLAHOMA

EVENTS LISTED ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE. CHECK INDIVIDUAL WEBSITES FOR UPDATES.

IN TULSA Performances

Tulsa Opera presents: The Pirates of Penzance Feb. 1 Lorton Performance Center Gilbert and Sullivan's classic comic opera about misguided pirates comes to Tulsa. This family-friendly event is a classical music adventure with plenty of memorable songs, costumes and more. tulsaopera.com

Celebrity Attractions presents: Disney's Beauty and the Beast Feb. 1 Tulsa PAC Be our guest at Beauty and the Beast, Disney’s first North American production of the beloved musical in over 25 years. This enchanting and timeless tale, filled with the romance and grandeur audiences know and love, has been brought to life like never before, with spectacular new sets and dazzling costumes. celebrityattractions.com

Tulsa Symphony presents: IV – Celebrating Black History Feb. 7 Tulsa PAC See the Tulsa Symphony with Kearstin Brown and Jherrand Hardeman as guest conductor. tulsasymphony.org

Tulsa Spotlight Theater presents: The Drunkard and the Olio Feb. 7, 14, 21, 28 Tulsa Spotlight Theater It began on Nov. 14, 1953, and has never stopped! That's how The Drunkard became America's longestrunning play. More than 3,000 Tulsans have participated on or offstage. tulsaspotlighttheater.com

Tulsa Ballet presents: Sleeping Beauty Feb. 12-15 Tulsa PAC Sleeping Beauty reimagines the classic fairy tale with a fresh and innovative twist, combining classical ballet with breathtaking choreography by Marcello Angelini after Marius Petipa, and a beautiful score performed by the Tulsa Symphony Orchestra. The production brings to life the enchanting story of Princess Aurora, the evil fairy Carabosse and true love's kiss. tulsaballet.org

An Evening with C.S. Lewis Feb. 14-15 Tulsa PAC Step into 1963 for An Evening with C.S. Lewis, where the beloved author welcomes a group of American writers into his Oxford home. With warmth and wit, he reflects on the moments and relationships that shaped his life—his deep friendship with J.R.R. Tolkien, why he nearly abandoned the Narnia series, his unexpected journey to faith and the remarkable American woman who changed everything. tulsapac.com

PERFORMANCE

Winter Classics Take the Stage

From symphony and ballet to Broadway hits and familyfriendly favorites, February brings a rich lineup of performing arts.

At the PAC, Tulsa Symphony offers IV: Celebrating Black History on Feb. 7 with Kearstin Brown and Jherrand Hardeman as guest conductor. Stick around the venue for Tulsa Ballet’s romantic and tragic Sleeping Beauty on Feb. 12-15, as well as An Evening with C.S. Lewis from Feb. 14 to 15. Fans of rock music and music theatre alike won’t want to miss

A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical courtesy Celebrity Attractions from Feb. 17 to 22, and the month concludes at the PAC with Aesop’s Greatest Hits, perfect for kids, running Feb. 23-27.

OKC options are ample for the performing arts. Begin at the Civic Center Music Hall, with three offerings from the OKC Phil – The Fire of Love: Romeo and Juliet on Feb. 14; Musical Moods: Feelings You Can Hear on Feb. 15; and Classical Mystery Tour on Feb. 27-28. Stick around the venue for OKC Broadway’s The Simon & Garfunkel Story on Feb. 11, as well as the classic star-crossed love story Romeo & Juliet, courtesy OKC Ballet, from Feb. 20-22. In Edmond, Armstrong Auditorium also presents three performances this month: Canadian Brass on Feb. 3; the Venice Baroque Orchestra on Feb. 11; and the Three Italian Tenors on Feb. 19. Lastly, venture to Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma from Feb. 11-March 1 for Beehive: The 60s Musical

If you’re looking to take a short trip to Stillwater, the McKnight Center offers a bevy of goodies this month: Mandy Patinkin in Concert on Feb. 14; Hadestown on Feb. 17-18; and the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra on Feb. 27.

Celebrity Attractions presents: A Beautiful Noise –

The Neil Diamond Musical Feb. 17-22 Tulsa PAC Created in collaboration with Neil Diamond himself, A Beautiful Noise is the uplifting true story of how a kid from Brooklyn became a chart-busting, show-stopping American rock icon. With 120 million albums sold, a catalogue of classics like "America," "Forever in Blue Jeans," and "Sweet Caroline," an induction into the Songwriters and Rock and Roll Halls of Fame and a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, his story will shine. celebrityattractions.com

Theatre North presents: Nat Turner in Jerusalem Feb. 21-March 1 Tulsa PAC In August 1831, Nat Turner led a slave uprising that shook the conscience of the nation. Turner’s startling account of his prophecy and the insurrection was recorded and published by attorney Thomas R. Gray. Nathan Alan Davis writes a timely new play that imagines Turner’s final night in a jail cell in Jerusalem, Virginia, as he is revisited by Gray and they reckon with what has passed, and what the dawn will bring. tulsapac. com

The TPAC Imagination Series presents: Aesop's Greatest Hits Feb. 23-27 Tulsa PAC Join the TPAC for a romp through Aeasop’s most beloved tales, produced specifically with kindergarteners in mind. Color, creativity, joy and laughs come together for this amazing show, with a few lessons learned along the way. tulsapac. com

Concerts

The Bellamy Brothers Feb. 5 River Spirit Casino Resort You won't want to miss this exciting concert. riverspirittulsa.com

Rumours ATL Feb. 5 Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Tulsa Rumours ATL is a highly acclaimed Fleetwood Mac tribute band from Atlanta, Georgia, known for its authentic and detailed recreation of Fleetwood Mac's iconic "golden era" sound. hardrockcasinotulsa.com

Ghost Feb. 7 BOK Center GHOST is bringing their Skeletour World Tour 2026 presented by KMOD to BOK Center. bokcenter.com

Josh Turner Feb. 19 Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Tulsa Josh Turner is a successful American country music singer and songwriter known for his deep baritone voice, traditional country sound, and hits like "Your Man" and "Why Don't We Just Dance." hardrockcasinotulsa. com

Winter Jam Feb. 22 BOK Center Winter Jam Tour Spectacular 2026 is coming to BOK Center! Join some of the biggest names in Christian music for an unforgettable night. This year’s lineup features Chris Tomlin, Matthew West, Katy Nichole, Hulvey and more, plus a Pre-Jam Party. bokcenter.com

38 Special Feb. 26 Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Tulsa 38 Special is a popular American Southern rock band formed in Jacksonville, Florida, in 1974 by Donnie Van Zant (brother of Lynyrd Skynyrd's Ronnie Van Zant). hardrockcasinotulsa.com

Eli Young Band Feb. 28 River Spirit Casino Resort See one of the biggest names in country music. riverspirittulsa.com

Art

Champagne & Chocolate

Member Showcase Feb 6-March 14 Living Arts of Tulsa The Champagne & Chocolate Member Showcase is Living Art’s annual showcase featuring works done by member artists. These works vary in media and exhibit the wide range of creation and artwork that makes Living Arts of Tulsa what it is. livingarts.org

Alicia Kelly: Roughly Right Feb 6-March 21 108 Contemporary Alicia is a printmaking and paper arts instructor at The Lawrence Arts Center and a Cultural Arts Commissioner for the City of Lawrence. She is an active member of The Paper Artist Collective and Guild of American Papercutters and works out of her home studio in Lawrence. 108contemporary.org

Interwoven: Cherokee, Muscogee & Yuchi

Baskets Through Feb. 8 Philbrook Learn about Tulsa’s interwoven history with the Muscogee (Creek), Yuchi and Cherokee people, who share the ancestral art of basketry. philbrook. org

Andy Warhol: Silver Clouds Feb. 11-June 14 Philbrook Andy Warhol was never one to accept things as they were. A highly influential Pop artist and socialite, he was known for brightly colored works featuring

celebrities, politicians and everyday products like Campbell’s soup cans or Brillo boxes. But Silver Clouds (1966) remains one of Warhol’s most distinctive pieces. philbrook.org

Marie Watt: Heart in the Sky Feb. 11-June 14 Philbrook With Heart in the Sky, Oregon-based artist Marie Watt breaks down barriers of traditional art experiences. The exhibition includes the artist’s monumental silver cloud forms made from jingles (rolled tobacco tin lids). The jingles are normally used in regalia for a Jingle Dress Dance meant to heal the community, Watt uses them to densely adorn the hovering clouds. philbrook.org

Homeward to the Prairie I Come: Gordon Parks

Photographs From the Beach Museum of Art Feb. 11-June 19 Philbrook One of the most influential photographers of the 20th century, Gordon Parks was also renowned as a poet, filmmaker, author, composer, and activist. He is best known for his photojournalism from the 1940s to the 1970s that documented American life and culture, particularly the experiences of African Americans and the Civil Rights Movement. philbrook.org

Killing the Negative Feb. 21-May 24 Philbrook Killing the Negative: A Conversation in Art & Verse combines the meticulous and sensitive drawings of artist Joel Daniel Phillips with powerful poems by distinguished writers, including lead poet, Quraysh Ali Lansana. philbrook.org

Growing Up Jewish Through May

15 Sherwin Miller Museum of Jewish Art Artist Jacqueline Kott-Wolle paints in a fresh palette of color in this exhibition and traces the story of one North American Jewish family through five generations from 1925 to the present. jewishmuseumtulsa. org

Jordan Ann Craig: Do the Patterns Notice Me? Through Oct. 10 Philbrook In her paintings, Jordan Ann Craig shares an important belief: there is a pattern waiting to be noticed in even the smallest of moments if we are willing to look. philbrook.org

Slumgullion: The Venerate Outpost

Ongoing Philbrook Philbrook is proud to partner with award-winning artist Karl Unnasch to present Slumgullion, a full-scale log cabin built from the skeleton of a late1800s pioneer home. philbrook.org

Sports

Tulsa Oilers Hockey Feb. 1, 5, 13-15, 28 BOK Center The Oilers take the ice this month. bokcenter.com

Oklahoma Invitational Black Rodeo Feb. 7 Expo Square The Oklahoma Invitational Black Rodeo is an exciting event in Tulsa celebrating African American heritage and the crucial role of Black cowboys in Western history, featuring professional and youth competitions. exposquare.com

Kaizen Invitational Feb. 14-15 Expo Square The Kaizen Invitational is a large annual youth volleyball tournament, organized

by Kaizen Volleyball Club, featuring boys' (ages 12-18) and girls' (ages 10-18) divisions with guaranteed matches. exposquare.com

XFN 407 Feb. 20 River Spirit Casino Resort Enjoy rousing MMA fighting at Extreme Fight Night. riverspirittulsa. com

Community

Tulsa Boat, Sport & Travel Show Feb. 2-8 Expo Square This event showcases boats, RVs, campers, motorcycles and extensive outdoor gear from hundreds of vendors, serving as a huge marketplace for new models and a destination for outdoor enthusiasts to plan summer adventures during the cold winter months, with features like seminars and discounts. exposquare. com

Tulsa Foundation for Architecture Tours Feb. 5, 21 Downtown Tulsa Take a fun and educational walking tour through downtown Tulsa and other historical local sites during Saturday Architecture Tours, hosted by the Tulsa Foundation for Architecture. tulsaarchitecture.org

First Friday Art Crawl Feb. 6 Downtown On the first Friday of every month, guests will be able to see a new exhibit opening and enjoy live music, a cash bar and snacks. humanities.utulsa.edu

Tulsa Town Hall presents: Georgia Hunter Feb. 6 Tulsa PAC When Georgia Hunter was fifteen years old, she discovered that she came from a family of Holocaust survivors. Years later, she embarked on a decade-long journey of intensive research, determined to unearth and record her family’s remarkable story. We Were the Lucky Ones was born of that effort. tulsatownhall.com

Vintage Tulsa Show Feb. 2022 Expo Square The Vintage Tulsa Show is a large annual antique and vintage market, featuring hundreds of dealers selling items like furniture, jewelry, art, clothing, collectibles, and unique home décor. exposquare.com

Darryl Starbird's National Rod & Custom Car Show Feb. 20-22 Expo Square The Darryl Starbird's National Rod & Custom Car Show at Tulsa Expo Square is a can't-miss event for automobile lovers. exposquare.com

41st Annual Tulsa Women's Expo Feb. 21-22 Expo Square The Tulsa Women's Expo features shopping, fashion shows, wellness exhibits, chef demos, beauty makeovers and giveaways, all focused on celebrating and empowering women with diverse products, services, and inspiration for better living. exposquare.com

Charitable Events

Cooking Up Compassion Feb.

7 Arvest Convention Center Cooking Up Compassion, Catholic Charities of Eastern Oklahoma's annual gala, is in Arvest Convention Center's Grand Hall on February 7. arvestconventioncenter.com

2026 State of Small Business Feb. 11 Hilton Garden Inn

Tulsa Midtown Join the Oklahoma Small Business Exchange for its annual State of Small Business Luncheon, a premier gathering of entrepreneurs, industry leaders and community advocates from across Oklahoma. oksbe.com

Candy Ball Feb. 14 Arvest Convention Center Come aboard, the Child Abuse Network is expecting you! The love boat promises something for everyone! After all, it’s love that keeps the programs of CAN running ship-shape for local children in need. Supporters will cruise through an evening of smooth sailing as CAN charts the course toward hope and healing. arvestconventioncenter.com

United to Fulfill The Dream Luncheon Feb. 21 NSU Join Education For Scholars, Inc. for a powerful celebration of unity and equality at our annual "United to Fulfill the Dream" fundraiser, honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy. This year's fundraiser theme is “Pathway Pioneers.” educationforscholars.org

Live United Awards Feb. 25 Arvest Convention Center Make plans to join fellow donors and celebrate the success of the 2025 fundraising drive at the annual Live United Awards luncheon. United Way will honor workplace campaigns in several categories and recognize the people who made the fundraiser a success. arvestconventioncenter. com

Uncork Your Support: A Tour of France Feb. 28 St. John's ChurchFather Lynch Hall, Bartlesville Enjoy this annual wine tasting and food sampling event to support local students as they prepare for college through mentoring and life skills classes. givebutter.com/uncork26

IN OKC Performances

Canadian Brass Feb. 3 Armstrong Auditorium, Edmond Masters of concert presentations, Canadian Brass has developed a uniquely engaging stage presence and rapport with audiences. Each of their concerts shows the full range from

trademark Baroque and Dixieland tunes to new compositions and arrangements created especially for them. armstrongauditorium.org

Dinner Detective Comedy

Mystery Dinner Show Feb. 7, 14, 28 Skirvin Hilton OKC Don't miss one of the biggest interactive comedy shows in America as the "Dinner Detective Comedy Mystery Dinner Show" comes to Oklahoma City. thedinnerdetective.com

OKC Broadway presents: The Simon & Garfunkel Story Feb. 11 Civic Center Music Hall Few shows have experienced the phenomenal global success of The Simon & Garfunkel Story, with multiple sold-out shows in over 50-countries worldwide and over 20 headline performances in London’s West End, including multiple appearances at the world-famous London Palladium. okcbroadway. com

Venice Baroque Orchestra Feb. 11 Armstrong Auditorium, Edmond One of the finest period ensembles in the world, the Venice Baroque Orchestra returns to the Armstrong stage. They are teaming up with virtuoso violinist Chouchane Siranossian in a cleverly packaged program of works featuring the violin by Baroque composers from Venice. armstrongauditorium.org

Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma presents: Beehive – The 60s Musical Feb. 11-March 1 Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma Featuring timeless classic tunes like “My Boyfriend’s Back,” “Be My Baby,” “Son of a Preacher Man," and "Me and Bobby McGee," "Beehive" recalls the days of miniskirts, transistor radios and flower power. lyrictheatreokc.com

OKC Phil presents: The Fire of Love – Romeo and Juliet Feb. 14 Civic Center Music Hall Love.

Game On

There’s something for every sports lover this month.

Longing. Tragedy. The Fire of Love: Romeo and Juliet brings passion to the stage with Nurit Bar-Josef and the OKC Philharmonic, featuring music by Ravel, Price, Wagner and Tchaikovsky. okcphil.org

Adele Wolf's Valentine Follies Feb. 14 Civic Center Music Hall Celebrate Valentine’s Day being dazzled by decadent showgirls and gravity-defying circus acts at this world-class, Vegas style revue! okcciviccenter.com

OKC Phil presents: Musical Moods – Feelings You Can Hear! Feb. 15 Civic Center Music Hall Music has the power to make us feel happy, sad, excited, or even silly—and this Discovery Series concert is all about exploring those emotions through sound. okcphil. org

Three Italian Tenors Feb. 19 Armstrong Auditorium, Edmond The Three Italian Tenors – Giovanni Maria Palmia, Ugo Tarquini and Gianni Leccese – present “Italia Musica Amore," an extraordinary program of the most famously beloved Italian opera arias and songs, fusing Italian wit and charm with romanticism, lyricism, dramatic flair and operatic style. armstrongauditorium.org

David Spade: I Got A Feel For It Feb. 19 The Criterion David Spade is an acclaimed American actor, comedian, and writer, known for his sharp wit and distinctive comedic style. critierionokc.com

OKC Ballet presents: Romeo & Juliet Feb. 20-22 Civic Center Music Hall Prepare to be swept away to Verona, Italy where two star crossed lovers meet and ultimately share a destiny that alters everyone in its wake. Colorful and opulent, Romeo & Juliet will swell your heart with beautiful scenery, timeless music, and incredible dancing. okcciviccenter.com

In Tulsa, cold weather means one thing: Tulsa Oilers hockey. You can catch them at home, the BOK Center, Feb. 1, 5, 13-15 and 28. At Expo Square, you won’t want to miss the Oklahoma Invitational Black Rodeo on Feb. 7, which celebrates the crucial role of Black cowboys in Western history and features professional and youth competitions. Also at the Expo is the Kaizen Invitational, Feb. 14-15, one of the region’s largest annual youth volleyball tournaments. If you want to keep the adrenaline pumping, venture to River Spirit Casino Resort on Feb. 20 for XFN – or Extreme Fight Night –with MMA offerings galore.

OKC Phil presents: Classical Mystery Tour Feb. 27-28 Civic

Center Music Hall Get ready for a magical journey through the unforgettable music of the world’s most iconic band with Classical Mystery Tour, one of the greatest Beatles tribute bands performing today. This spectacular concert features timeless hits that span the full breadth of the Beatles’ legendary career, from the early days of “Twist and Shout” to the heartfelt melodies of “Yesterday” and beyond. okcphil.org

Concerts

The New Edition Way Tour Feb. 6 Paycom Center The New Edition Way Tour brings together three of music’s most enduring and influential acts: New Edition, Boyz II Men, and Toni Braxton. paycomcenter.com

TobyMac Feb. 11 Paycom

Center This lineup is stacked: TOBYMAC, Crowder, Jeremy Camp and more are bringing the anthems you love. Don’t miss the tour fans wait all year for! paycomcenter.com

Rascal Flatts Feb. 21 Paycom

Center With classic harmonies, backroad ballads and arena-ready anthems like "Bless the Broken Road" and "Life is a Highway," Rascal Flatts has captivated fans worldwide for more than two decades, and now is your chance to see them live in the 405! paycomcenter.com

Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band Feb. 24 The Criterion Kenny Wayne Shepherd is a celebrated American blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter known for his electrifying performances and mastery of the blues genre. criterionokc.com

Excision Feb. 26 The Criterion Excision, known for his ground-shaking bass music and innovative sound design, has

solidified his status as a pioneer in the electronic dance music scene. criterionokc.com

Art

Route 66: From Trails to Truck Stops Feb. 6-May 4 National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum The story of the American West is, at its heart, a story about movement. Folks moving across a wide, wild stretch of land—different people, cultures, and communities all heading west for their own reasons. The National Cowboy Museum tells that story in its new exhibition, Route 66: From Trails to Truck Stops. nationalcowboymuseum.org

ArtNow 2025: Materials and Boundaries Through Feb. 16 Oklahoma Contemporary Organized by guest curator Alexa Goetzinger and guest curatorial assistant Virginia Sitzes, Materials and Boundaries is the 2025 edition of the Oklahoma Contemporary ArtNow biennial exhibition, highlighting new and recent art from a selection of artists active in the state. oklahomacontemporary.org

Paul Reed: A Retrospective Through April 12 OKCMOA This major retrospective, the first devoted to the artist, will present a survey of Paul Reed’s art and accomplishments from his early days as a graphic designer to his success as one of the founding artists of the Washington Color School in the 1960s. okcmoa.com

The Cowboy: An Immersive Journey Through May 3 National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum A bold new 360-degree experience surrounds you with the landscapes, stories and spirit of the American West. Larger-than-life projections, sweeping soundscapes and historic imagery bring the story of the cowboy to life in a way you’ve never seen. nationalcowboymuseum.

In OKC, basketball continues to entice. The reigning NBA champs, the OKC Thunder, play at the Paycom Center all month long, as well as their G-League affiliate, the OKC Blue. At the OKC Fair Park, you’ll find the Prairie Classic Quarter Horse Show on Feb. 4-8; the Certified Lions FC soccer match on Feb. 13; and the OK State High School Wrestling Championships on Feb. 26-28. And don’t forget to head out to Riversport OKC’s Indoor Rowing Challenge on Feb. 7.

Where & When | Entertainment

org

Jakian Parks: The Black Land Through June 1 Oklahoma Contemporary The Black Land envisions a pyramiding structure, layering the historical phases from Black captivity to contemporary Black equestrianism. oklahomacontemporary.org

Chihuly Then and Now: The Collection at Twenty Ongoing OKCMOA Redesigned in collaboration with Chihuly Studio, Chihuly Then and Now: The Collection at Twenty incorporates a unique design, featuring five decades of glass and painting and tells a comprehensive story of Chihuly’s groundbreaking career. okcmoa.com

Hock E Aye Vi Edgar Heap of Birds: Neufs for Oklahoma Autumn Ongoing Campbell Art Park/Oklahoma Contemporary Oklahoma Contemporary is honored to present Neufs for Oklahoma Autumn, a basketball court installation commissioned as a public art iteration of the Neuf painting series by renowned artist Hock E Aye Vi Edgar Heap of Birds. oklahomacontemporary.org

Cynthia Daignault: Oklahoma Ongoing OKCMOA

This exhibition features one painting, Oklahoma by Cynthia Daignault, as a tribute to the history of the Oklahoma City bombing from 1995. okcmoa.com

Sports

OKC Blue Basketball Feb.

1, 3, 9, 10, 24 Paycom Center Enjoy games with the OKC Blue. paycomcenter.com

OKC Thunder Basketball Feb.

3, 7, 12, 20, 22, 27 Paycom Center Enjoy games with

COMMUNITY

the NBA champs, the OKC Thunder. paycomcenter.com

Prairie Classic Quarter Horse Show Feb. 4-8 OKC Fairgrounds The Prairie Classic Quarter Horse Show is a major annual event featuring top-tier American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) competitions in disciplines like Western Pleasure, Reining, Trail, Ranch Riding, Halte and Hunter Under Saddle, attracting exhibitors from across the U.S. and Canada. theprairieclassic.com

Riversport OKC Indoor

Rowing Challenge Feb. 7 Riversport OKC Test your endurance during the Riversport OKC Indoor Rowing Challenge in the Boathouse District's McClendon Whitewater Center. riversportokc.com

Certified Lions FC Soccer Feb. 13 OKC

Fairgrounds See Oklahoma City's arena soccer team play at the OG&E Coliseum. certifiedlionsfc. com

OK State High School Wrestling Championships Feb. 26-28 OKC Fairgrounds The Oklahoma High School Wrestling Championships are the premier annual event crowning state champions for boys and girls across various classes, featuring intense competition where top wrestlers from regionals vie for individual and team titles. okcfairpark.com

CommunityArt

Edmond Ice Rink Through Feb. 1 Mitch Park, Edmond Enjoy holiday ice skating in Mitch Park at the Edmond Outdoor Ice Rink. edmondicerink.com

Devon Ice Rink Through Feb.

Fun for Everyone

1 Myriad Botanical Gardens Skate across 5,500 square feet of real ice and indulge in seasonal food and beverage offerings, while losing yourself in a magical, park-like atmosphere surrounded by glittering lights. myriadgardens.

org

First Friday Gallery Walk Feb.

6 Paseo Arts District Make your way to the First Friday Gallery Walk in Oklahoma City's Paseo Arts District to enjoy art gallery openings, wine tastings, live music and more. thepaseo.org

An Evening with Reed Timmer Feb. 12 Civic Center Music Hall Join the Civic Center Foundation for Dominate The Storm: An Evening with Reed Timmer, an unforgettable multimedia experience with one of the world's most accomplished extreme meteorologists and storm chasers. okcciviccenter.com

2nd Friday Norman Art Walk Feb. 13 Norman Arts District The 2nd Friday Norman Art Walk, a monthly celebration of the arts in Norman, connects the downtown arts district with outlying galleries, performance halls and Campus Corner. 2ndfridaynorman.com

Second OHOF Saturdays Feb. 14 Oklahoma Hall of Fame Second Oklahoma Hall of Fame Saturdays invite families to learn about an Oklahoma Hall of Fame member with crafts and activities. oklahomahof.com

Buchanan's Vintage Flea Market Feb. 14 OKC Fairgrounds Buchanan's Flea Market is a well-known antique and collectible event in Oklahoma City featuring diverse vintage items, unique decor, crafts, and treasures from various dealers. okcfleamarket.com

3

No matter what kind of community event you’re searching for this month, Oklahoma has you covered.

PHILBROOK

Monster Jam Feb. 14-15 Paycom Center Get ready for the world’s best drivers and their 12,000-pound monster trucks as they tear up the dirt with jaw-dropping stunts, high-flying jumps and fierce head-to-head battles. paycomcenter.com

Charitable Events

A Night to Remember: Adult Prom Gala Feb. 13 Oklahoma City Farmers Public Market Grab your favorite formal attire and favorite people to celebrate and support children and families in your community! yfsok. betterworld.org

Oklahoma Catholic Women's Conference Feb. 21 Oklahoma City Convention Center The Oklahoma Women’s Conference began in 2008 thanks to a small group of dedicated women who had a vision of bringing together hundreds of women for a single day of fellowship and deepening their Catholic faith. okcconventioncenter.com

Green Tie Gala Feb. 21 National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum Beneath the shimmer of masks and candlelight, lives are being transformed. Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City invites you to our 2026 Green Tie Gala with this year’s theme “Masquerade” – an evening of fine dining, spirited dancing, the joy of community and heartfelt generosity. okcnp.org

Infant Crisis Services Gala Feb. 28 Oklahoma City Convention Center When families have nowhere else to turn, Infant Crisis Services is there. We believe no baby should go hungry. That’s why ICS provides life-sustaining formula, food and diapers to Oklahoma’s most vulnerable

children. okcconventioncenter. com

THE STATE Performances

Wicked: For Good Screening Feb. 11 McKnight Center for the Performing Arts, Stillwater After challenging the Wizard's totalitarian regime in Oz, Elphaba must grapple with her identity as the "Wicked Witch of the West". Meanwhile, the Wizard has given Glinda the title "Glinda the Good" and a public status as the nation's defender against Elphaba. mcknightcenter.org

Mandy Patinkin in Concert: Jukebox with Adam Ben-David on Piano Feb. 14 McKnight Center for the Performing Arts, Stillwater For more than four decades, Mandy Patinkin has been fortunate to carve out a varied and multifaceted career in theater, film, television, and music. mcknightcenter.org

Hadestown Feb. 17-18 McKnight Center for the Performing Arts, Stillwater Intertwining two mythic tales — that of young dreamers Orpheus and Eurydice, and that of King Hades and his wife Persephone — Hadestown is a haunting and hopeful theatrical experience that grabs you and never lets go. mcknightcenter.org

Orpheus Chamber Orchestra Feb. 27 McKnight Center for the Performing Arts, Stillwater Renowned for their collaborative spirit, the Grammy-Award winning Orpheus Chamber Orchestra has played without a conductor since their

In Tulsa, art abounds: try the Champagne & Chocolate Member Showcase, Feb. 6-March 14 at Living Arts of Tulsa; Alicia Kelly: Roughly Right from Feb. 6-March 21 at 108 Contemporary; or a bevy of options at Philbrook: Andy Warhol: Silver Clouds and Marie Watt: Heart in the Sky, both from Feb. 11-June 14; as well as Homeward to the Prairie I Come: Gordon Parks Photographs From the Beach Museum of Art from Feb. 11-June 19. Other options include the Tulsa Boat, Sport & Travel Show on Feb. 2-8 and the 41st Annual Tulsa Women’s Expo, Feb. 21-22, both at Expo Square, as well as Tulsa Town Hall’s speaker Georgia Hunt on Feb. 6 at the PAC.

inception. mcknightcenter.org

Concerts

Chris Stapleton Feb. 20-21 Winstar World Casino and Resort, Thackerville Hailing from the great state of Kentucky, Chris Stapleton has won audiences the world over for his unique brand of blues-inspired country music. winstar.com

Heart Feb. 27 Winstar World Casino and Resort, Thackerville Heart is essential listening for anyone who can’t get enough classic rock. winstar.com

Tucker Wetmore: The Brunette World Tour with Dasha Feb. 28 Choctaw Casino and Resort, Durant Tucker Wetmore has emerged as one of country’s most dynamic new stars. choctawcasinos.com

Sports

Bullnaza Feb. 6-7 Lazy E Arena, Guthrie The event will feature some of the best cowboys and toughest bulls in the country. travelok.com

Kicker AMA Arenacross & Freestyle Motocross Show Feb. 20 Lazy E Arena, Guthrie Prepare for two days of thrilling dirt bike races at the annual Kicker AMA Arenacross & Freestyle Motocross Show in Guthrie's Lazy E Arena. travelok. com

CommunityArt

Norman Mardi Gras

Parade Feb. 7 Downtown Norman Let the good times roll during Norman's annual wild and wacky Mardi Gras Parade. travelok.com

Quilting Across Generations Feb. 13-14 Great Plains Coliseum, Lawton The Quilting Across Generations Show in Lawton will feature more than one hundred quilts on display, plus a variety of demonstrations and craft vendors. travelok.com

Lunar New Year Feb. 15 Riverwind Casino, Norman Welcome the Year of the Horse at the Riverwind Casino's Lunar New Year celebration. riverwind.com

Gordon Roger Alexander Buchanan Parks (American, 1912–2006). Parish Priest (Father Placidus walks in a field of winter wheat with parishioner, Louis Huss), from the series The Monks of a Kansas Abbey Lead a Cloistered Life of Devotion, 1955, printed 2017. Gelatin silver print, 15 1/4 x 21”. Kansas State University, Marianna Kistler Beach Museum of Art, gift of Gordon Parks and The Gordon Parks Foundation, 2017.409. Image courtesy of and copyright by The Gordon Parks Foundation.

In OKC, two exciting exhibitions can be found at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum: Route 66 – From Trails to Truck Stops, Feb. 6-May 4, and The Cowboy: An Immersive Journey, through May 3. Head to the Civic Center Music Hall on Feb. 12 for a speaking event featuring Reed Timmer, well-known storm chaser, or visit the Paycom Center on Feb. 14-15 for monster truck extravaganza Monster Jam.

Wedding Expo Feb. 22 Stride Bank Center, Enid Meet and greet with vendors like photographers, cake decorators, hair stylists and florists to see if they could be the perfect fit for your upcoming nuptials. travelok.com

Dutch Oven Gathering Feb. 28 Fort Townsend Historic Site Learn about the art of preparing an outdoor feast at the Dutch Oven Gathering at Fort Towson Historic Site. Local cast iron chefs will demonstrate their cooking chops as they create delicious treats in a dutch oven. travelok.com

Unconventional Valentine’s Viewing

Whether you’re in the mood for Dracula, zombie chaos or a high-stakes heist, these films make date night one to remember.

The month of love is upon us. I have a few romantic films for you, along with some action and horror, so strap in for a group of misfit films that will surely make your Valentine's dates entertaining.

First up, Dracula: A Love Tale. Starring Caleb Landry Jones (Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri) as the titular Dracula, the story seems to follow the original 1897 novel by Bram Stoker, albeit with a bit more flare and some dramatic license. The trailer has violence, multiple gorgeous costumes, romance and full on war scenes. Christoph Waltz (Inglourious Basterds) co-stars and Luc Besson (Subway) brings his directing and writing style to the proceedings when this releases on Feb. 6.

For some comedy mixed with your horror, don’t miss Cold Storage. When two employees at a self-storage facility realize a sealed parasitic fungus has begun to spread, they must work together with a government agent to contain it before it takes over the minds of every living creature. Joe Keery (Stranger Things), Georgina Campbell (Barbarian) and Liam Neeson (Taken) all star in what looks to be a fun romp through mindinfected zombie murder with a darkly comedic twist. It hits theaters on Feb. 13.

If you want a pure crime thriller, check

so we’ll see if he can keep it interesting when it drops on Feb. 13.

For a bit of black comedy thriller, make sure to see How to Make a Killing Starring Glen Powell (Top Gun: Maverick) as a disowned son of an obscenely wealthy family, the movie follows his attempts to reclaim his inheritance by any means necessary. The cast includes Margaret Qualley (The Substance), Jessica Henwick (Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery) and Topher Grace (BlacKkKlansman), and the trailer promises all the charm Powell can bring along with an enticing dark humor. It releases on Feb. 20.

Lastly, get your music documentary fix with Man on the Run. The doc focuses on former Beatles member Paul McCartney from his formation of Wings though the 1970s. It looks to have in-depth interviews with McCartney about his time directly after the Beatles broke up and what was going though his mind as he began his next chapter as one of the world’s most prolific songwriters. We can all look on in awe when it comes to Amazon Prime on Feb. 25.

DREW JOSEPH ALLEN

out Crime 101. Although the concept of “one last heist” seems a bit overplayed, the trailer still seems to show a good amount of fun banter and action with its stars Chris Hemsworth (Thor), Mark Ruffalo (Zodiac) and Halle Berry (X-Men). The writer/director, Bart Layton, has two previous films that are both uniquely made with documentary elements, particularly American Animals, which blended the real life people it was documenting with dramatized elements in a way I found incredibly fun to watch. This film looks to be a more straightforward approach based on a novella of the same name,

Closing Thoughts

Marcello Angelini

Artistic Director of Tulsa Ballet since 1995, Marcello Angelini is an internationally acclaimed former principal dancer whose career spans the world’s most prestigious companies. Under his leadership, Tulsa Ballet has grown into a globally recognized company, known for its expansive repertory, international touring and commitment to both tradition and innovation. In May 2026, that vision reaches a historic milestone as Angelini leads the company to its debut at London’s Royal Opera House. We caught up with Angelini and got his thoughts on ...

... what this debut means for Tulsa Ballet.

Both for me and for Tulsa Ballet, this is the crowning of the 70 years of work; it embodies our strive for excellence and community support. The Royal Ballet is financially [one of the largest companies] in the world, with a budget of over $227 million. It is also the embodiment of artistry, quality, taste and excellence. Being invited by the leadership of the company to appear at The Royal Opera House, presented by The Royal Ballet, is

the highest recognition for our company, and our city, I can think of.

... preparing the work for a new

audience.

I think about Tulsa, and Tulsa Ballet in this order. We want to show audiences in London the creativity and versatility that are the “superpower” of our company and our community. In the case of the Ballet, the creativity is represented by the two works “made in Tulsa” that are part of the program: Andy Blankenbuehler’s Remember our Song and Divenire by Nicolo Fonte. The third piece in the program is Classical Symphony by Yuri Possokhov, a brutally challenging classical-virtuoso piece. When you put the three together, the result is a program that goes flawlessly from ballet to Broadway, thus showcasing the versatility of our company. This program also illustrates the sophistication of our community through the support for high quality cultural offerings.

...preserving ballet tradition while embracing innovation.

I didn’t know there was a difference between the two… Tradition is nothing else than the innovation of the past. In 1841, Giselle was a very innovative work, as it was only the second ballet to be danced on the tip of her toes (on pointe) for the ballerina. Today, it is the embodiment of tradition. Same for The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker! Today’s innovation is tomorrow’s tradition. It behooves upon us to create the tradition of tomorrow through today’s innovation.

... how his vision as Artistic Director has evolved over three decades.

I can write a book about this question. Let’s say that there were different phases to my vision, each using the previous achievements as the platform from which to spring for the next “adventure.”

The first phase consisted of bringing to Tulsa all the best works of the second half of the 20th century. The next phase was symbolized by our wish to move the art form forward through the creation of new works, and by increasing our contributions to the community by opening our dance academy and creating new educational programs.

The next phase was characterized by our will to build a space meant for the creation of new art, and meant to host educational programs: our own Studio K. At the same time, we wanted to take the company internationally. And the fourth, which is ongoing, is to create a number of large full scale story-ballets like our new Cinderella, our new Alice in Wonderland, our new The Sleeping Beauty and Marilyn. We are also working on reimagining our facilities to be attractive and exciting for dancers and staff members.

... ensuring Tulsa is seen as a place where new work is born, not just presented.

It’s imperative! One of my goals, from the first time I came to Tulsa for the job interview, was to increase the visibility of the community through the reputation of its ballet company. Tulsa is a wonderful place, and thanks to the developments of the past 20 years, it’s now a tremendous community for both young and less young people. There is culture, there are thriving arts, great neighborhoods, fabulous entertainment venues and a strong sense of community. And innovation is all around us, wherever we look! As the “Official Cultural Ambassador” for the state of Oklahoma, we want the world to know what Tulsa is all about!

... timing and relationship-building in the ballet industry.

It’s certainly a big part of it, but not all of it. The artistic director of The Royal Ballet saw us perform at Jacob’s Pillow dance festival, as the Royal was supposed to take our slot the closing week of the festival the following year. Kevin O’Hare, the director of the company, liked Tulsa Ballet and when I asked him if he would invite us to The Linbury, he said “of course.” My jaw dropped and is still dislocated at this time… At the end of the day, what spoke the loudest was the quality of our company.

Full Mouth Restoration

“As a Clinician for twenty years I understand honest, professional, high-quality care. Dr. Walker and his staff provide what can be considered the pinnacle in dentistry. If you are looking for someone to call “your” dentist, call Dr. Matt Walker at Utica Dental. Regret is something you’ll never have for doing so”

– William G.

*All photos are actual patients of UTICADENTAL.

Where