Issuu

D E C E M B E R 2 02 0

HOME FOR THE

HOLIDAYS

MERRY CHRISTMAS Unique and Exclusive Gifts that Last

LIFESTYLE LETTER

DECEMBER 2020 PUBLISHER

Kathy Slemp | kslemp@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

Joy and Cheer in Tulsa OKAY, SO MAYBE THE HOLIDAY SEASON ISN’T FULL OF JOY AND CHEER THE ENTIRE TIME. There’s a lot to do, and you want everything to be perfect so your family and friends know how loved they are. But take a big breath—we are here to help. This month’s issue includes the ultimate children's gift guide, and you can find each item here within our community. We are all about shopping local in Tulsa and supporting each other.

Teresa Bond-Mason | teresa.bondmason@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Matthew Endersbe L AYO UT DESIGNER

Dana Rudolph CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Teresa Bond-Mason, Brian Frere, Andrea Gardner, Debra Laizure, Brian Paschal CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Acrylic Asylum Art, Dana Hoey, Avery Olmstead, Kathryn Peaster

If you're stumped on what to give that person who seems to have everything, check out our article about bourbon made right here in Tulsa. And don’t worry; we wouldn’t leave you without some winter decorating tips and local activities. Read Home for the holidays to see how you can turn your front door into a place where Santa can't help but stop. This holiday season is going to be wonderful, and we believe in you. Just remember to find time for yourself too. Your family wants you to be happy and healthy above all else. Happy holidays, Tulsa. We can’t wait to see you next year!

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

Teresa Bond-Mason, Editor

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

CityLifestyle.com/Tulsa

Proverbs 3:5-6 Tulsa Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Tulsa area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Tulsa Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the

Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2020

accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

INSIDE THE ISSUE DECEMBER 2020

FEATURES 08 Home for the holidays Deck the halls with these decorating ideas to make your entryway merry and bright

14 Lights on! Holiday light displays dazzle with tradition while ensuring guest safety

22 Home sweet home The changing needs of Tulsa home buyers

22 34

34 ‘Tis the season for Good Night Tulsa Local book inspires a love of reading and community this holiday season

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

Renovate & Refine

Hot Spot

Travel Destination

Healthy Lifestyle

22 Trend Setter 28 Local’s Choice 30 Lifestyle Calendar 34 Local Limelight

Making the big move? We mind the details, so you donâ€™t have to.

Don Conwell

Branch Manager NMLS ID# 453975 8126 S Mingo Suite 200 Tulsa, OK 74133 O: 918.505.5920 | M: 918.230.7458 dconwell@guildmortgage.net Apply Online www.DonConwell.com

I am authorized to do business in the states of Arkansas, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma and Texas. Guild Mortgage Company is an Equal Housing Lender; Company NMLS ID 3274 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org). All information, loan programs & interest rates are subject to change without notice. All loans subject to underwriter approval. Terms and conditions apply. Always consult an accountant or tax advisor for full eligibility requirements on tax deduction.

RENOVATE & REFINE

HOME FOR

ARTICLE DEBRA LAIZURE

THE HOLIDAYS DECK THE HALLS WITH THESE FRONT DOOR DECORATING IDEAS TO MAKE YOUR ENTRYWAY MERRY AND BRIGHT

DECORATING FOR CHRISTMAS BRINGS BACK HAPPY CHILDHOOD MEMORIES AND IS A FUN-FILLED FAMILY ACTIVITY. As the holidays near, we are staying at home more than ever without a lot of interactions. Hanging Christmas lights and decorating your front porch is an easy way to spread holiday cheer with the rest of your neighborhood. According to Pinterest, door decor will be especially popular this holiday season with searches for ‘Christmas door decorations’ up by 125 percent. So, take advantage of this valuable time with your family, turn on some Christmas music and start decorating!

Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2020

door and tucked into urn-style planters. The smell of pine will evoke the spirit of Christmas every time you cross the threshold. Accent with colorful berries and make sure to hydrate your greenery using a spray bottle filled with cool water every other day.

WOODL AND WONDE RL AND

Spruce up your porch and have a holly jolly Christmas with fresh garland wrapped around your

STYLE TIP Add a warm glow with solar-powered lanterns in bronze, silverÂ and wood finishes. Outdoor lanterns can be purchased for as low at $20 at home dĂŠcor stores.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Tulsa

RENOVATE & REFINE (CONTINUED)

COUNTRY CHRISTMA S Wrap around porches are made for the holidays. Achieve this simple, stylish look with a monochromatic design of calming natural materials and a mix of different textures such as metallics, burlap and wood. Add plenty of seating like this outdoor bench and pile on comfort with cozy throws, flameless candles and lots of pillows. 10

Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2020

STYLE TIP Itâ€™s easy to make these rustic wood stands. Using a hand saw, cut sections of branches to the desired length. Sand with heavy grit sandpaper followed by finer grit sandpaper until smooth. Seal with a satin finish polyurethane varnish.

For south-facing porches, consider a grouping of eye-catching ruby red or candy-cane colored poinset-

STYLE TIP

tias. They like the sun and are the favorite holiday decoration, next to the Christmas tree. Water your plants

Coordinate the look with big red plaid bows on

only when the soil is noticeably dry.

the wreath and garland. Add a rocking chair or a childâ€™s snow sled by the door and your traditional

PRETT Y POINSETTIA S

Christmas look is complete.

CityLifestyle.com/Tulsa

HOT SPOT ARTICLE ANDREA GARDNER | PHOTOGRAPHY ACRYLIC ASYLUM ART AND DANA HOEY

ONE SINGULAR

S E N SAT I O N

THIS LOCALLY-DISTILLED SINGLE BARREL IS PERFECT FOR THE BOURBON LOVER ON YOUR LIST

RED FORK DISTILLERY AND TULSA HILLS WINE CELLAR HAVE RELEASED THE FIRST SINGLE BARREL OF THE NEW REVERENCE BOURBON, DISTILLED IN TULSA. While quantities last, it is available exclusively at Tulsa Hills Wine Cellar, located at the Tulsa Hills shopping center. This special release is a three-year aged wheated bourbon, bottled at 90 proof. It offers a delicious aroma of rich, toasted oak and a warm vanilla finish on your palate. It’s a good mixture of smooth, sweet and spicy. And, it's only $39.95 a bottle. Dr. Todd Johnson, co-owner of Tulsa Hills Wine Cellar, and Andrea Gardner, General Manager of THWC next to the Red Fork still.

WHAT IS SINGLE BARREL BOURBON? A single barrel is just that: the contents from just one barrel. To achieve consistency, distillers mix sometimes hundreds of barrels together after aging. That’s why there is very little varia-

To order as a special treat for yourself or that hard-to-buy-for person on your Christmas list, go online at TulsaHillsWineCellar.com or visit them at Tulsa Hills Shopping Center, 7422 S. Olympia Ave., Tulsa.

tion from one bottle of mass market bourbon to the next. It’s great for guaranteeing the quality of a mass-produced product, but in doing so, you lose the variations in flavor unique to each barrel. That’s why small batch and single barrel versions of popular bourbons have been all the rage lately. Each barrel is, by definition, limited and exclusive. “A single barrel bourbon is totally unique,” explains the Wine Cellar’s co-owner Dr. Todd Johnson. “You are never going to get that flavor profile out of any other barrel . . . ever.” MORE FROM TULSA HILLS Tulsa Hills Wine Cellar has worked with brands such as Knob Creek, Woodford Reserve and Eagle Rare on single barrel projects. Last year they were invited to the Maker’s Mark Distillery, an honor held by about 50 stores across the nation, to have a hand in creating their own. They also have in-stock a second edition Woodford Reserve and a cask strength (123.0 proof) single barrel from the award-winning Texas-based Garrison Brothers. Additional single barrel projects are in the works.

Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2020

Served Fresh for the Holidays At Esperance we use high quality local ingredients with minimal processing to make quality handmade pastries. Our goal is to give our customers delicious pastries combined with exceptional service.

Made with Organic & Local Ingredients Baking makes us happy and we want to share that happiness with you!

Let Us Make the Holidays Easier Place Your Order Now! 918.528.6544 | esperancebakery.com 610 W. MAIN ST., JENKS, OK

esperancejenks

Happy Holidays!

Visit Our Showroom to See Our Extensive Tile Selections and Let Our Experienced and Talented Personnel Assist You in Creating

Your Vision on Your Next Project! Stay Safe Oklahoma!

Locally & Family Owned & Operated

#TulsaStrong We are open Saturdays 10-3! (M-F: 8-5)

Think Globally, Act Locally! Like Us on FB!

918.592.1234 CityLifestyle.com/Tulsa

TRAVEL DESTINATION

ARTICLE DEBRA LAIZURE

lights on!

HOLIDAY LIGHT DISPLAYS DAZZLE WITH TRADITION WHILE ENSURING GUEST SAFETY

Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2020

T’S THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR! Decorating the Christmas tree, drinking hot cocoa and enjoying sparkling light displays are all fun family tradi-

tions. This year has an added layer of safety precautions and social distancing, but you can still create Christmas memories and celebrate the holiday season with these festive events.

WHEN: Kick-off Nov. 27; then each Thursday through Sunday through Jan. 3. Special days include Dec. 21-23 (closed Dec. 24 & 25), from 5-9 p.m. each night WHERE: Tulsa Botanic Garden, 3900 Tulsa Botanic Dr., Tulsa INFO: TulsaBotanic.org Enjoy thousands of lights at the Tulsa Botanic Garden. Make delicious s’mores in the fire pits (s’mores kits are available for sale), get your picture taken at

botanic garden

the outdoor photo booths, ride the train (except Sundays), and check out the Holiday Model Railroad exhibit inside the Mabee Grange Building from Dec. 17-27. Cost for non-members is $15 for ages 13 and up, $5 for ages three through 12. Children two and under are free but must have a ticket. Garden members are $10 for ages 13 and up; $5 for ages three through 12. Safety procedures: No tickets will be sold at the door. Timed entry tickets are required and may be purchased in advance at TulsaBotanic.org. Capacity is limited each night, so purchase your tickets early to get the day and entry time you wish. Masks are required for ages five and up when not eating or drinking. Hand sanitizing stations will be available in various locations outside.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Tulsa

TRAVEL DESTINATION (CONTINUED)

woolaroc museum & wildlife preserve WHEN: Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 5-9 p.m., Nov. 27 through Dec. 20 WHERE: 1925 Woolaroc Ranch Rd., Bartlesville INFO: Woolaroc.org Head north to Woolaroc Museum and Wildlife Preserve to see more than 750,000 magical lights covering the main grounds. To ensure proper safety recommendations, the Wonderland of Lights is a drive-through only event this year. But, because of the reduced activities, organizers have greatly reduced the admission cost to $2 per person (children two and under are free) at the gate, no advanced tickets needed. Museum members are free. And don’t worry, the Holiday Horseman will still be roaming the grounds, so keep a close eye out for him!

WHEN: Nov. 21 through Jan. 3 WHERE: BOK Center, 200 S. Denver, Tulsa Photo credit: Kathryn Peaster

INFO: TulsaWinterfest.com Celebrating its 13th year, the ice-skating rink will now be INSIDE the BOK Center. Come skate like the professionals on its 17,000 square foot hockey rink! There will still

arvest winterfest

be plenty of holiday magic inside and outside the BOK Center with holiday décor and lights and the iconic 45-foot tall Winterfest Tree

on 3rd Street. Carriage rides are available every Friday and Saturday, Winterfest Express Train and live performances occur each Saturday, and everyone’s favorite, Sundays with Santa is from 2-4 p.m. inside the BOK Center. Safety procedures: The venue is taking every precaution to ensure guests are safe and having fun during Winterfest. Tickets are required and may be purchased in advance at TulsaWinterfest.com. No tickets will be sold at the door. Skating reservations are every 30 minutes with 75 minutes of skate time at the start of your reservation. Winterfest is now cashless. Everyone ages 10 and up will be required to wear a mask when not eating and drinking inside the building, even while skating. Social distancing placards are in place throughout the facility with hand sanitizing stations every 10 feet. 16

Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2020

rhema lights WHEN: Nov. 25 through Jan. 1, 5:30-11:30 p.m. WHERE: Rhema Bible Church, 1025 W. Kenosha, Broken Arrow INFO: RhemaLights.org Since 1982, the Rhema Church Christmas light display has been delighting families with its brilliant display of twinkling lights that began with a mere 60,000 lights. Today more than two million lights attract Â more than 200,000 visitors annually. The Christmas Tree Forest is back with a 22-foot tree with a five-foot star surrounded by smaller, beautifully lit metal trees. Admission is free. Safety procedures: A drive-through concession stand will be available as well as hand sanitizer at each of the concession stands located throughout the park. Because Rhema Lights is an outdoor event and located in Broken Arrow (which does not have a mask ordinance), masks will not be required but are highly recommended to guests. Organizers have widened the walking path areas so there will be more room to socially distance while enjoying the lights.

CityLifestyle.com/Tulsa

HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

Putting the ca r e bac k I N H E A LT H C A R E ARTICLE TERESA BOND-MASON

Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2020

WE’VE ALL HAD MORE THAN OUR SHARE OF CHALLENGING TIMES LATELY. But, with First Call, finding home health assistance doesn’t have to be one of them. Many people have chosen to take their loved ones out of long-term care facilities due to COVID, and now find themselves overwhelmed with new responsibilities as family caregivers. First Call is there to help take some of that load off and help people get their lives back, knowing their loved ones are receiving the best care. For more than 20 years, First Call has been a staple in the healthcare industry. They not only help local families with needed home health services, but they also provide quality medical personnel for hospitals and long-term care facilities all throughout Oklahoma that are struggling due to overworked staff and a national shortage of nurses. The vetting process and employee morale is what sets First Call apart. Before anyone is hired, references are checked to make sure potential employees are literally the best of the best. “We want to know a lot more than if they showed up to work on time,” explains Leah Blackburn, recruiter. “We make sure they have a good bedside manor, sound judgement and compassion to ensure we hire only the best,” adds Blackburn. COVID is always a concern when introducing someone new to your home or facility. “Whether we are providing staff for just a day or two as supplemental help, or even full-time guaranteed assistance, First Call works around the clock to ensure our clients receive the consistent quality care we are known for,” explains Blackburn. First Call tracks each staff member to ensure their COVID-free clients and employees stay that way. “Ultimately, we just want everyone to be safe, healthy and happy,” says Blackburn. First Call takes extra care to make sure their employees know they are appreciated. “We keep in close contact with our employees to make sure they aren’t suffering from burnout. Although they determine how many hours a week they work, we want to make certain they’re taking care of themselves as well.” If you know someone who needs additional care in the home or facility, or perhaps someone who is interested in working at First Call, contact them at 918.665.1011 or refer them to My-FirstCall.com

CityLifestyle.com/Tulsa

Why You Should Send a Settlement Offer

Settling a divorce or family law matter is something most parties desire. Trials are expensive. Not only are they expensive, but in a trial the result rests in the hands of one family court judge. Most reasonable parties do not want to put their case in the hands of one judge. To settle a divorce or family law matter, it usually takes one party to take the first step towards settlement. In other words, somebody has to extend the olive branch first and broach the topic of settlement. Settlement negotiations often begin with one party sending an offer through their attorney to the opposing counsel. While initial settlement offers do not always result in a settlement, it can open the door to more negotiations. Many ask if it matters who sends the initial settlement offer. If one party issues the first settlement offer, some worry that offer shows weakness. In some cases, where the positions are far apart, some fear sending a settlement

offer is futile. However, sending a settlement offer does not ordinarily signal weakness. Instead, it shows that a party is willing to be reasonable to reach a constructive resolution to the case. It can indicate that they are ready to swallow their pride to reach a resolution. Most judges, before they hear a trial in a divorce or family law matter, also want to know if the parties have attempted settlement. When parties have not even made an attempt, some judges may have concerns. Settlement negotiations are technically inadmissible at trial. It is possible, however, that a judge could hold it against a party if they did not attempt meaningful settlement negotiations. Judges often know about the settlement efforts from pretrial or settlement conferences in a case. Instead of worrying about whether it looks weak to issue a settlement offer, parties should instead focus more on appearing reasonable to the court. Being reasonable often results in obtaining a positive result if the case ends up in trial. Further, a settlement offer can ultimately lead to a settlement. When there is a settlement, parties save mon-

ey on attorneys’ fees. The parties can also put to rest the emotional anguish and stress of being in the midst of a divorce or family law matter. However, it is vital to have enough information about the finances or the particulars of the case. These details can be gathered through formal or informal discovery to make an informed settlement offer. To make an informed settlement, parties often need the tax returns and statements regarding all marital property and debt. When valuations are needed, the parties can hire experts to value marital property such as real estate, stock options, and business interests. With children involved, the parties may need school and medical records. Once this takes place, most parties should think about sending a settlement offer. Sending the initial settlement offer may not work, but it can begin the conversation. It also signals a willingness to negotiate and be reasonable. Stange Law Firm, PC limits their practice to family law matters including divorce, child custody, child support, paternity, guardianship, adoption, mediation, collaborative law and

other domestic relation matters. Stange Law Firm, PC gives clients 24/7 access to their case through a secured online case tracker found on the website. They also give their clients their cell phone numbers. Call for a consultation today at 855-805-0595. To schedule a consultation:

855-805-0595

WWW.STANGELAWFIRM.COM

The choice of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements. Stange Law Firm, PC is respsonsible for the content. Principal place of business is 120 South Central Ave, Suite 450, Clayton, MO 63105. Court rules do not permit us to advertise that we specialize in a particular field or area of law. The areas of law mentioned in this article are our areas of interest and generally are the types of cases which we are involved. It is not intended to suggest specialization in any areas of law which are mentioned The information you obtain in this advertisement is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls, letters and electronic mail. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. Past results afford no guarantee of future results and every case is different and must be judged on its merits.

Tulsa County Office

6660 S. Sheridan Road, Suite 240

Tulsa, Oklahoma 74133

Paid Advertisement

SafeSplash + SwimLabs offers: • Learn to swim classes • Warm water, indoor pool • Small class sizes • Certified instructors • Competitive & Triathlete lessons • Instant stroke feedback using underwater cameras & mirrors

Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2020

Give the Gift of Creativity, Art and Beauty » Take Home Mosaic Kits » *New* Holiday activity kits » Stained glass classes » Virtual classes » Private parties » Stained glass lamps & pendants, windows, and more in showroom » Gift certificates 4131 South Sheridan, Tulsa OK 74145 Hours 10 am to 6 pm, Mon. – Sat.

Established 1975

TulsaStainedGlass.com » Order Kits Online » Curbside Pickup Available

CityLifestyle.com/Tulsa

TREND SETTER

Home sweet

HOME

THE CHANGING NEEDS OF TULSA HOME BUYERS

Left: Pools are a feature many are looking for.

ARTICLE BRIAN FRERE

Below: Bigger lots are a must.

Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2020

Bigger kitchens allow for more home cooked meals.

JANE AUSTEN ONCE SAID “THERE IS NOTHING

into make-shift school houses, setting up desks

LIKE STAYING HOME FOR REAL COMFORT.” In

and computers in any space they could find. Home

today’s COVID world, we are taking Ms. Austen’s advice

buyers want to take those areas back to their original

and staying home to experience that feeling more often

purpose and now are looking for homes with study

than ever before. Today’s home buyers are closely evalu-

nooks and home school rooms.

ating the physical attributes of a house that are conducive to creating a home where they spend more time.

OUTDOOR LIVING AND EXERCISE Larger yards, trees and better views are becoming

WORKING FROM HOME

a popular trend with families, especially those with

We used to see the popular “command center”

children. More focus is on outdoor space to accommo-

located in kitchen areas, but since many people have

date playsets, tree houses and trampolines. The entire

spent most of 2020 working from home the desire

outdoor experience also includes pergolas, kitchens,

for a dedicated home office is experiencing a robust

outdoor televisions, screens and sound systems.

resurgence. In addition, buyers are looking for “ZOOM

Only a year ago swimming pools didn’t add much

Rooms”, quiet rooms tucked away that can be used to

resale value. During 2020, pools have added value

attend and host online meetings.

to homes and created purchase offers faster than homes without.

DISTANCE LEARNING

At the onset of COVID, many of us sat around. It didn’t

It’s not only the parents who require work space

take long before we all realized exercise was important.

at home, students are also in need of special areas

Sales of exercise equipment skyrocketed and home-

to attend online classes and study. Many families

owners found the need for an additional room in the

converted formal dining rooms and game rooms

home to be used as a home gym.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Tulsa

TREND SETTER (CONTINUED)

With outdoor living at an all-time high, consider an outdoor kitchen.

EATING AT HOME

OTHER FACTORS:

Past studies indicate that more than half of all

Home theater rooms, game rooms and gaming

Americans get takeout, delivery or dine at a restau-

rooms (yes, there is a difference, just ask anybody

rant at least two to three times per week. This year,

born after Y2K) are once again a feature homebuyers

kitchens have made a comeback. People are looking

are looking for.

for space to store more groceries, cook and enjoy

Multi-generational living is not a new trend, but

their creations. Larger counter space and higher-end

one families are looking for. We are seeing more

appliances are gaining in popularity and value.

interest in family compounds where a larger parcel of property is purchased and several homes are

VACATION HOMES With fewer people taking vacations, we are seeing a demand for lake homes, country homes or even

built. These family compounds require a lot of infrastructure/development planning as well as home construction and estate planning.

a private plot of vacant land for easy escapes for a

What will the winter bring? More people will add

weekend of camping, hiking or hunting. If you’re

heating systems to their patio areas for all-season

looking to purchase property like this, search for one

enjoyment. Outdoor fireplaces and fire pits are

where the seller is willing to leave boats and other

being purchased and built at astonishing rates in

recreational equipment.

preparation of cooler weather.

Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2020

While all of these features are meant to create

Brian specializes in proactive marketing techniques

comfort and convenience, we hope what you love

that go beyond basic online marketing to include

most about your home is whomever you share it with.

personally networking through telephone calls and

To see more of these beautiful homes including a

frequent personal visits with influential people in

home with a sound-proof room designated for music

the area. A tenet of Brian’s business that has con-

enjoyment, visit BrianSellsTulsa.com.

tributed to thousands of successfully executed contracts is the belief in cooperative, win-win relationships with local realtors. Born and raised in Tulsa, Brian has a deep love

Brian Frere was a Certified Public Accountant

for the area and believes it is a choice place to live

prior to beginning his real estate career in 2004. Year

and raise a family. Brian is connected and active

after year he historically ranks within the Top one

in the community and his church. He is a member

percent of Tulsa Realtors by number of units sold

of the Jenks Public Schools Superintendents Circle,

and total sales volume thanks to his commitment

the Regent Bank President’s Advisory Committee,

to understanding the local market and his ability to

the Greater Tulsa Area of Realtors Public Relations

interpret and communicate values and trends.

Committee, the Metro Tulsa Soccer Association

Brian’s real estate practice is supported by doc-

and other local groups. He is a Faith in Business

umented systems and checklists, a full-time admin-

Breakfast Series speaker and is frequently invited

istrative team and three buyer specialists. This

to speak at civic organizations, churches and other

allows Brian to focus his efforts on the proactive

real estate offices in the region.

marketing of his listings, communicating with his sellers and negotiating acceptable sales contracts.

Brian currently resides in south Tulsa with his wife, April, and their two daughters.

Above: A theatre room allows for watching movies safely. Left: A homework nook for your student.

CityLifestyle.com/Tulsa

USE IT OR LOSE IT!

MAKE SURE TO USE YOUR INSURANCE BENEFITS AND/OR FSA BEFORE THE END OF THE YEAR.

GLASSES AND BRACES ARE APPROVED FSA EXPENSES. MAKE AN APPOINTMENT AT PEDIATRIC DENTAL GROUP / ADVENTURE VISION TODAY.

Pediatric Dental Group and Adventure Vision. From infants to teens, our priority is to build a lasting relationship with our patients. Provide the best care possible. And make a positive impact on their lives VISIT OUR LOCATIONS

(918)585-3744

(918)872-7009

602 S. Utica Ave. Tulsa, OK 74104

7715 E. 91st St, Suite A, Tulsa, OK 74133

PediatricDentalGroup.com

Small class sizes.

162-acre campus.

SPACE to EXPLORE. Private tours offered by appointment Monday-Friday from 3:30-4:30 p.m. For virtual campus tours and more information about admission or financial aid, call 918-879-4755. Or visit hollandhall.org/admission.

Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2020

ALL FOR THE

LOVE OF FOOD Whether you’re craving the classics, or ready to discover a new crave worthy favorite, Metro Diner is the place you want to be. Serving up BIG, BOLD, INNOVATIVE MEALS all day, every day, for breakfast, lunch and dinner. All in a relaxed environment where you can be you – just with a bigger, more satisfied smile on your face.

METRODINER.COM 7 4 7 4 S O LY M P I A AV E N U E T U L S A , O K 74 1 3 2

CityLifestyle.com/Tulsa

LOCAL’S CHOICE

T H E P E R F E CT G I F TS FO R K I D S O F A L L AG E S WONDERING WHAT TO BUY YOUR LITTLE ONE? LOOK NO FURTHER.

Rainbow Alligator by Plan Toys

IT’S THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR - ESPECIALLY IF YOU’RE A KID. But these days, it’s not just the choice between an Easy Bake Oven and Tinker Toys. Finding just the right gift can be challenging. We asked Toy Expert Ryan McAdams from Tulsa Toy Depot for some suggestions for all the kids on your list.

Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2020

NEWBORN TO AGE TWO Rainbow Alligator by Plan Toys. $25. The Rainbow Dancing

ARTICLE

Alligator sports bright colors which gently make a click clack

TERESA BOND-MASON

sound when pulled, while the head and tail move up and down to delight children. The Rainbow Alligator helps children identify colors and provides a lot of fun! AMBI Toys One Man Band. $20. A cheery little musician has a drumstick in one hand, a double-ended whistle in the other, and a tummy drum filled with beads. His head turns and makes a gentle ratchet sound and his little hat is a bell. GeoMag Magicube 24-piece set. $60. Magnetic cubes attach to each other on all six sides. Children are able to let their imagination fly and create different shapes, color combinations and even 3D structures. Fat Brain Pipsquigz Loops. $10. The sensory excitement of this bendy, rattly, chewy, suction-cup creation is irresistible. Vivid textures inspire fingers to grab while soft silicone soothes sore gums. It’s sure to become baby’s new favorite toy! AGES TWO TO FIVE Cassidy Labs Gecko Blocks. $30. Perfect for young builders, these foam blocks stick to each other. They work on any smooth surface, including the bathtub. Blockaroo Airplane. $24. These magnetic foam shapes teach

Airfort Starry Night

colors, shapes and building. Better yet, they float in the bath. Peaceable Kingdom’s Dinosaur Escape. $17.99. A game where kids work together and use their memory and incorporate simple strategies to rescue the dinos. Help each other remember what tokens are flipped over and save the dinos so everyone wins. Airfort Starry Night. $56. If you need a break from messy furniture forts, here’s your answer. It inflates in seconds with the switch of an ordinary household fan. When inflated the Airfort is large in size fitting several kids and adults. AGES SIX TO 12 Pairzi. $20. Easy to learn, Pairzi is a fast-paced card-matching game that creates playful competition and unavoidable laughter. Playstream’s Aero Science Combo Set. $15. This set is the perfect activity for kids learning about different methods of flight. Fly a plane, launch a rocket, build your own egg parachute or power two different helicopters using a rubber band. Artwille Paint by Number Neon Lion. $25. Painting by numbers is a game in which everyone can make a piece of art. This set has everything you need to create a masterpiece. NSG Deluxe Archery Set. $49.99. The tension adjustable bow with freestanding target makes this archery set easy enough for the kids but still fun for the teens and adults.

Pairzi

All of these gifts and much more can be found at Tulsa Toy Depot located at 10114 S. Sheridan Rd. or online at TulsaToyDepot.com. As always, free gift wrap and curbside delivery are available. CityLifestyle.com/Tulsa

DECEMBER

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

1-31

RHEMA CHRISTMAS LIGHTS EXTRAVAGANZA

GARDEN OF LIGHTS AT HONOR HEIGHTS PARK

FIRST FRIDAY ART CRAWL

Honor Heights Park, Muskogee

Visitors can explore artwork inside

Rhema Christmas Lights Extravaganza

Experience animated displays and

galleries,

is a brilliant display of twinkling lights

more than 1.2 million shimmering

and catch a few live music per-

that began with about 60,000 lights in

lights at Muskogee's annual Garden

formances. Art crawlers can take

1982. Today more than two million lights

of Lights. Drive through Honor

advantage of free museum and

adorn the campus from Thanksgiving

Heights Park and view 130 acres of

gallery admission while shopping

Eve through New Year’s Day. The glit-

trees, bushes and water areas deco-

later than normal business hours

tering lights will shine every day from

rated for the holiday season. Watch

would allow. Hit the district early for

5:30-11:30 p.m. RhemaLights.org

animated displays synchronized to

dinner, or stay a little later for a craft

Christmas music and enjoy the

cocktail best enjoyed on an outdoor

lighted displays of deer, squirrels and

patio. TheTulsaArtsDistrict.org

Rhema Bible College, Broken Arrow

1-31 CASTLE CHRISTMAS Castle of Muskogee

Drive through Castleton Village filled with more than 2,000 holiday displays and thousands of colorful lights, creating an unforgettable experience. Open

studios

and

museums

birds amongst the variety of lighted trees. MuskogeeOnline.org

1-31 TULSA STAINED GLASS Tulsa Stained Glass

FRIDAY, SATURDAY & SUNDAY THROUGH DEC 20

every night through Dec. 31, 5:30 to 10

Tulsa Stained Glass offers a variety

p.m. Train rides and pony rides. Santa's

of classes throughout the month

workshop, family movies, cafe and

and hosts private parties and cor-

shop. Free admission - donations are

porate events. Learn stained glass

gratefully accepted. OKCastle.com

construction, then design and make

A wonderful holiday tradition returns

a beautiful stained glass piece.

as a drive-through experience. The

Beginner level to more advanced

grounds and buildings of Woolaroc will

classes. Events can be done in

be covered with more than 750,000

person or virtually. For class sched-

lights as the historic ranch transforms

ule, reservations or to schedule an

itself into a magical winter wonderland.

event visit TulsaStainedGlass.com.

Times are 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Admission is

THURSDAY THROUGH SUNDAY UNTIL JAN 3 GARDEN OF LIGHTS AT THE TULSA BOTANIC GARDEN Tulsa Botanic Garden

Make s'mores over fire pits, enjoy

Tulsa Arts District

WONDERLAND OF LIGHTS Woolaroc, Bartlesville

$2 per person. Woolaroc.org

3 MAGIC CITY BOOKS PRESENTS SIMON HAN

Magic City Books is thrilled to celebrate

5 SPCA VIRTUAL BINGO BASH

SPCA's yearly Bingo Bash was can-

holiday music and train rides, and

the release of Nights When Nothing

celled earlier this summer but has

take in the spirit of the season in

Happened, the debut novel by Simon

been rescheduled to a virtual event

the garden illuminated with colorful

Han. Simon is formerly a Tulsa Artist

to keep everyone safe and healthy.

lights. Warm drinks, cash bar and

Fellow and visiting professor at The

The money raised helps SPCA con-

s'more kits are available for pur-

University of Tulsa. This free event will

tinue caring for animals and provid-

chase. TulsaBotanicGarden.org

be moderated by Charles Yu, author

ing pet owners with the help they

Special dates: Garden of Lights will

of Interior Chinatown, and hosted on

need. Tickets can be purchased at

be open Mon. - Wed., Dec. 21-23 and

the Zoom platform. 7 p.m. Register in

TulsaSPCA.org or by calling Jana

will be closed on Dec. 24 and 25.

advance. MagicCityBooks.com.

Paul at 918.428.7722.

Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2020

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Tulsa

DECEMBER

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

cheer with special performances and

MEADOW GOLD MARKET DAYS

2 HIP CHICKS ROADSHOW

day train and thousands of twinkling

Tulsa Exchange Center, Fairgrounds

lights shining throughout Chapman

Explore the most magical fun and

The

Roadshow

Adventure Playground! Don’t forget

quirky stretch of Tulsa's Route 66

brings hundreds of vendors and one-

to capture a family photo with Santa

on Dec. 5 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Arts

of-a-kind items including clothing,

Claus. GatheringPlace.org

and craft dealers, antiques, live

home decor, party items, vintage

performances,

treasures, antiques and gifts during

11th and Peoria

food

trucks

and

more. Decopolis.net

strolling carolers, festive food, holiday

Hip

Chicks

this shopping event at Tulsa Expo Square. You can sip on samples of

24 CHRISTMAS EVE BUFFET

wine and browse repurposed furni-

PJS AND POLAR EXPRESS

and more. Kids are free and adults

5-9 p.m. Enjoy a delicious Christmas

are $6. facebook.com/2hipchicks

Eve Buffet at the exquisite Cardinal

ture, handmade crafts, upcycled junk

On Dec. 11, parents can enjoy a date night starting at 7 p.m. while their kiddos attend PJs and Polar Express. The fundraiser benefits Tulsa Dance Company

Ensemble's

cultural

exchange and tour in 2021. Cost is

DEC 18 - JAN 3 WINTER WONDERLAND PRESENTED BY AMERICAN AIRLINES Gathering Place, Tulsa

$25 per child. For more information,

Winter Wonderland presented by

visit TulsaDanceCompany.com.

American Airlines is spreading holiday

Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2020

7890 E 106th Pl. S

Club in South Tulsa. For reserva-

8207 S. Harvard Ave., Tulsa

drinks, nightly entertainment, a holi-

tions call 918.970.4766 or email Travis at Travis@CardinalClubTulsa. com. CardinalClubTulsa.com

GET TO KNOW

METRO CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

METRO CHRISTIAN ACADEMY IS PLEASED TO OFFER WEEKLY TOURS FOR PROSPECTIVE FAMILIES INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE ABOUT OUR FULLY ACCREDITED, COLLEGE PREPARATORY SCHOOL SERVING STUDENTS IN PRESCHOOL THROUGH HIGH SCHOOL.

ITâ€™S NOT TOO EARLY TO PLAN FOR NEXT YEAR! GO TO VISITMETRO.COM TO SCHEDULE A TOUR OR CALL THE ADMISSIONS OFFICE AT 918.745.9868 EXT. 155 A T H R I V I N G C O M M U N I T Y O F S T U D E N T S , F A M I L I E S , A N D F A C U L T Y W I T H S H A R E D VA L U E S A N D F A I T H .

CityLifestyle.com/Tulsa

LOCAL LIMELIGHT

IF YOU ARE IN THE MARKET FOR A UNIQUE TULSA GIFT IDEA THIS HOLIDAY SEASON, ARTICLE BRIAN PASCHAL PHOTOGRAPHY AVERY OLMSTEAD

LOCAL BOOK INSPIRES A LOVE OF READING AND COMMUNITY THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

LOOK NO FURTHER THAN THE LOCALLY PUBLISHED GOOD NIGHT TULSA BOOK WRITTEN AND ILLUSTRATED BY TULSA PUBLIC SCHOOLS TEACHERS AND STAFF. From red pandas at the Tulsa Zoo to the Golden Driller, Good Night Tulsa brings to life a diverse variety

'TIS THE SEASON FOR GOOD NIGHT TULSA of iconic locations. In addition to building a sense of community pride, a goal of the Good Night Tulsa project, published by the Foundation for Tulsa Schools, is to promote the love of reading and enhance literacy competence for the children of Tulsa. JoAnn Caldwell, recently retired fine arts academic coordinator for Tulsa Public Schools, led the effort of selecting teachers and developing the overall storyline. “Working on this book has been a pleasure for all of us and we were honored to be asked to lend our talents,” says Caldwell. “The Good Night Tulsa project certainly made for a wonderful closure to my time at Tulsa Public Schools and I’m excited for all of the families who will discover this book!” Proceeds from Good Night Tulsa benefit the programs of the Foundation for Tulsa Schools, including Partners in Education. Thanks to support from Cox Communications and the Lobeck Taylor Family Foundation, for every book sold this holiday season, one will be donated to a Pre-K student at Tulsa Public Schools. “Good Night Tulsa is a celebration of the art and community that make up the fabric of Tulsa. By bringing this book to coffee tables, home offices and bookshelves, we’ll be able to continue providing the critical resources our schools need in the future,” stresses Brian Paschal, president and CEO of the Foundation for Tulsa Schools. To purchase Good Night Tulsa online or view a list of local retailers, visit FoundationForTulsaSchools.org

Tulsa Lifestyle | December 2020

Fashionistas and Foodies Welcome. farmshoppingcenter.com

Wishing Everyone a Christmas Season! ANIMAL EMERGENCY CENTER

Thank You for 33 Years of Patronage -The Doctors and Staff of the Animal Emergency Center

24/7

Animal Emergency & Urgent Care

“When you need us... We’ll be here.”

LEBRATING

YEARS

O K L A H O M A' S O N LY

4055 S. 102nd East Avenue Tulsa (918) 665-0508

Certified Level II Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Facility

AECTulsa.com