The Oklahoma 100

 

Downtown Leadership Matters

Downtown Oklahoma City, Inc., will honor James Couch, Leslie Batchelor and Mark Beffort at Dean A. McGee Awards on June 1.

Downtown OKC Inc. will honor three extraordinary Oklahoma leaders for their outstanding contributions that make downtown one of the best in the country.

The 2017 Dean A. McGee Awards at The Skirvin Hilton will honor James Couch, city manager of OKC with the Dean A. McGee Award; Leslie Batchelor, president of the Center for Economic Development Law with the Stanley Draper Award; and Mark Beffort, CEO of Newmark Grubb Levy Strange Beffort with the Neal Horton Award.

The Co-Chairs are Kari Watkins, executive director of Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum, and Tom McDaniel, president of American Fidelity Foundation.

– Brenda Jones Barwick, APR, Jones PR

 

Top Festivals in May

Art fairs, small-town jubilees and big-time blowouts are happening in May across every corner of the state. (Photo courtesy of Mayfest)

The month of May brings entertainment, festivals and fun to the entire state. Here are three festivals you can’t miss:

Oklahoma Renaissance Festival — Located at the Castle of Muskogee, this festival features casts of costumed characters, shows and exotic food (each Saturday/Sunday in May until June 4).

Chuck Wagon Gathering & Children’s Cowboy Festival — Located at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, the festival features an Old West show and covered wagon rides (May 27-28).

Tulsa International Mayfest — Located in downtown Tulsa, Mayfest highlights extensive art displays, three stages of performance art and inviting indoor galleries (May 18-21).

– Page Jones, Jones PR

 

OCSW Inducts Newest Members to Hall of Fame

Six Oklahoma women were inducted into the Women’s Hall of Fame earlier this month. (Photo courtesy OCSW/Facebook)

The Oklahoma Women’s Hall of Fame has six new members as of April 6.

Linda Cavanaugh, Edith Kinney Gaylord (posthumous), Glenda Love, Pat Potts, Meg Salyer and Rhonda Walters were each honored for the impact they have had on women and families throughout their lifetime.

Sponsored by the Oklahoma Commission on the Status of Women, the induction ceremony takes place every other spring. Individuals who receive this honor are selected through nominations from their peers.

The WHOF is one of several OCSW events that support its mission to improve the quality of life for women, children and families in Oklahoma.

– Kelly Arnold, APR, Jones PR

 

Dare to Dye Differently With Tulsa Botanic Garden

The Tulsa Botanic Garden will host an event to use natural materials and plant dye to color Easter eggs.

If your kids are out of school on Good Friday and you’re looking for something fun to do, take them to the Natural Egg Dyeing event at the Tulsa Botanic Garden.

You can dye eggs on Friday and Saturday, April 14-15, between 10AM and 2PM. Natural materials and dyes from plants will be used for decorating the eggs. The cost is $5 per child, which includes admission to the Garden.

The Botanic Garden is located at 3900 Tulsa Botanic Drive. Admission is free for all Garden members. Tulsa Botanic Garden is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10AM to 5PM.

– Connie Pearson, Jones PR

 

Cirque du Soleil’s OVO Coming to OKC

Cirque du Soleil’s “OVO” is coming to OKC. Performing exclusively at the Chesapeake Energy Arena from April 6 to 9, “OVO” tells the story of a colorful ecosystem abundant with life, where insects work, eat, crawl, flutter, play, fight and look for love in a non-stop riot of energy and movement. But when a mysterious egg appears in their midst, the insects become awestruck and intensely curious about the revolving cycles of their lives.

Having thrilled more than five million people worldwide, “OVO” is the perfect date night treat or family adventure for all ages. Purchase your tickets here.

– Jake Pasdach, Jones PR

 

A Tulsa Bar Is Deemed “Delish”

Hodges Bend specializes in handcraft cocktails including some of their favorites Pimm's Cup, Chaloupe and Lortondale Swizzle. (Photo courtesy of Hodges Bend)

Delish.com has ranked Tulsa’s Hodges Bend as one of the best bars in the country, which comes as no surprise to most Tulsans.

Hodges Bend serves specialty cocktails, hand-picked wines and beers. It is also open all day for coffee. Since opening Feb. 9, 2013, Hodges Bend has been one of Tulsa’s favorites. Celebrity chefs like Alton Brown have also been known to drop in.

In December 2014, The Parish became a permanent fixture outside Hodges Bend offering rustic, high-quality bar food to pair with a favorite drink. The Tobacco Old Fashioned is a must-try cocktail!

– Connie Pearson, Jones PR

 

Nominations Open for Inspiring Oklahomans

Easter Seals Oklahoma is now accepting nominations for the 2017 Inspire Awards. (Pictured: Paula K. Porter, president & CEO of Easter Seals Oklahoma; Robert C. Salinas, honoree; and Keith McCombs, board chair)

Easter Seals Oklahoma is now accepting nominations for the second annual Inspire Awards, which honors those in the community who serve as an inspiration for work they’ve done on behalf of people with disabilities.

Nomination categories include Distinct Inspiration Award (individual), Partner Inspiration Award (organization), and Corporate Inspiration Award (company). The nomination deadline is April 10, 2017, and selected honorees will be recognized in October at the 2017 Inspire Awards. The nomination form can be found here.

Easter Seals provides exceptional services, education, outreach and advocacy so that people with disabilities can live, learn, work and play in our communities.

– Jake Pasdach, Jones PR

 

March Madness Dribbles Through Tulsa

Tulsa's BOK Center will host first and second rounds of the NCAA Basketball Tournament March 17 & 19.

Tulsans will be able to show off their city this week as the highly anticipated “March Madness” begins. The BOK Center will host first and second rounds of the NCAA Basketball Tournament on Friday, Mar. 17, and Sunday, Mar. 19. If you would like to join in on the action, tickets start at $300 per person.

Two Big XII teams, Kansas and Baylor, will be playing in Tulsa. Unfortunately for Oklahoma State fans, you will have to travel to Indianapolis if you want to watch the Pokes.

Let’s show our guests how wonderful Tulsa is and how nice Tulsans are.

– Connie Pearson, Jones PR

 

McNellie’s Hosts 13th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Party

Patrons enjoy St. Patrick's Day at McNellie's at 1st & Elgin. (Photo courtesy of McNellie's Group)

McNellie’s Tulsa will host its annual St. Patrick’s Day Street Party starting Friday, Mar. 17. This year, it will carry over to Saturday, Mar. 18. Not only will patrons get to enjoy green beer and corned beef, but if they want to pay an extra $10, they can go to the second annual Corned-Off.

The Corned-Off is a local chef competition where everything is “corned” (also known as salt-cured). Tulsa chefs salt cure everything from fish to duck. Proceeds go to the Hearts of Steel Foundation.

Festivities begin at 11AM at 1st and Elgin in downtown Tulsa.

– Connie Pearson, Jones PR

 

Spring Events in Oklahoma

The Azalea Festival is an annual spring festival in Muskogee that features over 625 different kinds of blooming azaleas.

The ground is thawing and getting greener, which means it’s almost springtime in Oklahoma. Celebrate the warmer weather by checking out these two Oklahoma festivals, coming in April:

• Azalea Festival — Tourists come from across the country to view almost 30,000 blooming azaleas in Muskogee’s Honor Heights Park. There is food, entertainment and arts and crafts throughout the month of April.

• Dogwood Days — Blooming dogwood trees in Idabel make this beautiful festival the epitome of spring. This festival, set in historic downtown Idabel, features a country dance contest, a barbecue cook-off and more events in celebration of the season.

– Page Jones, Jones PR

 

All Aboard the Gilcrease Expressway

Mayor G.T. Bynum and Gov. Mary Fallin announce completion of the Gilcrease Expressway.

Area leaders will join Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum and Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin for an announcement regarding the plan for completion of the Gilcrease Expressway on March 10 at Chandler Park, located at 6500 W. 21st St.

“Our work together on this project is based on two important truths: that infrastructure fuels economic growth and that we can achieve more by working together,” said Mayor G.T. Bynum. “I am thankful for the close working relationship our city has with the state of Oklahoma and am excited by what this announcement will mean for the future growth of Tulsa.”

– Connie Pearson, Jones PR


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PMg Oversees Construction of Sea Turtle Exhibit

The Oklahoma Aquarium Sea Turtle Island. (Photo Courtesy of Program Management Group)

A ribbon cutting for the Oklahoma Aquarium Sea Turtle Island in Jenks will take place on Thursday, March 2, at 10:30 AM.

Program Management Group (PMg) provided oversight for this Vision 2025 project. As part of providing transparency for all Vision 2025 funding, PMg was involved in the progress of construction as well as management of contracts and payment requests.

“It has been a pleasure to be involved with the construction of the Sea Turtle Island at the Oklahoma Aquarium,” said Tanita White, program manager at PMg. “It was an honor to work on such a highly anticipated project.”

– Connie Pearson, Jones PR


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Something Big is Brewing in Tulsa

Splash: Lagers and Loggerheads is March 4 at 7 PM.

The Oklahoma Aquarium Foundation will host Splash: Lagers & Loggerheads, presented by ONEOK, on March 4 at 7 PM (VIP entry is 6 PM).

The event celebrates the highly-anticipated grand opening of the Aquarium’s new sea turtle exhibit. This inaugural Splash event will feature local craft beers from area breweries, food provided by top local restaurants and live entertainment.

With breweries and restaurants stationed throughout the Aquarium, guests will be able to sample beer and food while strolling through the galleries. Tickets range from $45 to $150. Proceeds will directly benefit the Oklahoma Aquarium. Ages 21 and over only.

– Connie Pearson, Jones PR


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Good Samaritan Provides Mobile Health Care

Dr. John Crouch, founder of Good Samaritan Health Services, in front of a mobile unit. (Photo courtesy Good Samaritan Health Services)

Good Samaritan Health Services, a nonprofit organization providing mobile health care to individuals with limited access, serves over 6,000 patients a year. It partners with churches to lift citizens out of poor health and poverty.

“We want to get our patients on their feet and assist them in breaking that cycle,” said Dr. John Crouch, founder. “Partnering with churches helps provide a holistic approach focusing on physical, emotional and spiritual health.”

Medical trucks travel to 14 sites, providing exam rooms, a lab and a pharmacy with free or low-cost prescriptions, which reduces the prevalence of emergency room visits.

– Connie Pearson, Jones PR


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Oklahoma Rare Beer Invitational Comes to Tulsa

Oklahoma Rare Beer Invitational comes to Tulsa on Feb. 18.

For all the beer lovers in the Tulsa area, there is a beer festival happening in February you do not want to miss! Make plans to attend the Oklahoma Rare Beer Invitational on Feb. 18, 6-10 PM, at The Bond located at 608 E 3rd.

This is a chance for you to taste locally and nationally recognized world-class beers. Tickets are $75 per person or $20 if you are the designated driver. They’re limited, so don’t wait to buy yours.

The cost of your ticket includes stemware for the night and delicious food catered by the McNellie’s Group.

– Connie Pearson, Jones PR

 

Polar Plunges Benefit Special Olympics

A participant takes the plunge in the past Polar Plunge. (Photo courtesy of Special Olympics Oklahoma)

The Polar Plunge, benefiting Special Olympics, is going on its 17th year in Oklahoma City on Feb. 25, 16th year in Tulsa on Feb. 11, as well as 13 other cities around the state. Last year, 1,151 people participated in the plunge statewide, raising $258,000. To participate, there is a minimum donation of $75, and you must sign a liability waiver.

The Polar Plunge is coordinated by the Law Enforcement Torch Run, an international charity made up of law enforcement personnel who raise money and awareness for Special Olympics.

The goal for this year’s plunge is $300,000.

– Connie Pearson, Jones PR

 

Businesses Make Must-Do Lists, Check It Twice

Every business leader should be making a list of year-end must-dos and checking it twice. (Photo courtesy of ISTOCKPHOTO)

As businesses wrap up 2016 aiming to maximize every dollar, a few tasks will help the bottom line. At the top is to take required minimum distributions so they are not subject to a 50% penalty. Also, make charitable contributions to boost tax benefits or supercharge benefits by contributing to a donor-advised fund.

Finally, fund company retirement plans to the max. More must-dos can be found in a free article from Morningstar at 6 Financial Must-Dos. Squeeze in a year-end meeting with your accountant as you are checking it twice for a prosperous close to 2016.

– Brenda Jones Barwick, APR, Jones PR


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New Year’s Eve at Home With The Can Do Kitchen

Serve your NYE guests a French 75 as the signature cocktail of the evening. (Photo courtesy The Can Do Kitchen)

Ring in 2017 at home with a few friends instead of going out. Here are some ideas of what to serve your guests: sweet and savory mixed nuts, artichoke and white bean dip and marinated goat cheese. Yum!

Pair these appetizers with the Can Do Kitchen’s French 75, one inspired by NoMi’s. Don’t forget about something sweet and festive by making coconut cranberry chess pie. When your friends offer to bring something, tell them to bring Champagne to pop open at midnight.

Pull out your favorite board games and you’re set for a fun New Year’s Eve celebration at home.

– Connie Pearson, Jones PR


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Downtown in December

Video footage shot by Oklahoma City Convention & Visitors Bureau

Downtown in December presented by Devon Energy is an exciting series of holiday events and festivities taking place in the heart of Oklahoma City.

The one-of-a-kind winter attractions include visits with Santa Claus, outdoor ice skating at the Myriad Botanical Gardens, free Bricktown water taxi excursions, performing arts, snow tubing and more.

Enjoy and make holiday memories with loved ones surrounded by twinkling holiday lights this month in downtown Oklahoma City. Most events are free of charge and family-friendly with an invitation for all to attend.

Visit here for a complete list of events and attractions.

– Jake Pasdach, Jones PR


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TYPros New Year’s Eve LIGHT UP THE NIGHT

Tulsa's Young Professionals group celebrates New Year's Eve. (Photo courtesy of TYPros)

If you’re a young professional in Tulsa looking for New Year’s Eve plans, make your reservations now for the Tulsa Young Professionals LIGHT UP THE NIGHT | New Year’s Eve Party, benefiting the TYPros Foundation.

Ring in 2017 with your friends and other TYPros at the Sky Loft at First Place Tower downtown. The party will have sounds from DJ Gus Majors and a confetti cannon at midnight.

Tickets include hors d’oeuvres, two complimentary beverages and a Champagne toast at midnight. Make it a full evening and book a room at the Holiday Inn downtown. Early bird pricing ends Dec. 15!

– Andrew Witter, Tulsa Young Professionals


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A Royal Ruckus for New Year’s Eve

Book your room now for the Royal Ruckus New Year's Eve Party at The Mayo Hotel. (Photo courtesy of the Mayo Hotel)

With the hustle and bustle of the holidays, don’t forget about New Year’s Eve.

Consider the Royal Ruckus New Year’s Eve bash at The Mayo Hotel. Dress in your best cocktail attire with royal flare for a regal evening. Tickets include access to the Grand Hall, Penthouse Bar, a Champagne toast and heavy hors d’oeuvres. For all cigar lovers, a cigar roller will be there to make custom stogies. Dance to the majestic sounds of L.A. DJ Michael Linney and local DJ Vince.

When you book a room, tickets are included so stay safe by staying off the roads.

– Connie Pearson, Jones PR


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Oklahoma Original Musical Production

Armstrong Auditorium’s own Ryan Malone is the creator of this one-of-a-kind production. (Photo by Armstrong Auditorium)

The holidays bring many special seasonal activities and festive performances to the state. Located in Edmond, Armstrong Auditorium is hosting its fourth musical theater production, “The Widow’s Might – The Story of Naomi, Ruth and Boaz.”

This production follows Naomi and Ruth of the Bible – two impoverished widows – on their journey to discover loyalty and love, rescue and redemption.

Audiences have three chances to see this heartrending and lyrical performance on Thursday, Dec. 29, at 7:30PM, Saturday, Dec. 31, at 7:30PM, and a matinee showing on Sunday, Jan. 1, 2017, at 2PM. Tickets are now on sale for $10.

– Emily Anderson, Jones PR


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A Little Bling From Landon Thomas Designs

Landon Thomas Designs creates unique engagement rings for customers. (Photo courtesy of Landon Thomas Designs)

If you are like a lot of men, you will wait until the last minute to buy a Christmas gift for your significant other. Instead, if you really want to wow her, stop by Landon Thomas Designs at Luxe Studio.

From necklaces to earrings, custom jeweler and owner, Landon Thomas, can show you original pieces he created, or he can make something for your special someone. Thinking of a holiday engagement? Thomas will fabricate a custom-made ring or help you select one of the beautiful rings he has in the store.

You can’t go wrong with a little bling!

– Connie Pearson, Jones PR


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British Politician Gives Lesson in Brexit

European Parliament Member Daniel Hannan recently visited Oklahoma to speak about the Brexit vote.

Daniel Hannan, British politician and 17-year Member of the European Parliament, traveled across the pond earlier this month to speak about his role in the Brexit referendum.

Hannan explained the decision to leave the European Union was about shrugging off the EU and reestablishing the United Kingdom as a sovereign nation and capable of negotiating their own trade accords. Hannan also spoke of both his admiration of America’s founding fathers and the strong relationship between President Ronald Reagan and Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher.

Hannan’s fascinating message of economic freedom and personal liberty was hosted by Americans for Prosperity Oklahoma.

– Adam Maxey, Jones PR


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Bison Round-up on the Prairie

Bison round-up at the Tallgrass Prairie Reserve is no easy task. (Photo courtesy of Jack Buzbee)

One of Oklahoma’s hidden treasures is the Joseph H. Williams Tallgrass Prairie Preserve, which is the largest protected tallgrass prairie on Earth with over 40,000 acres.

Each November, the entire bison herd is rounded up by staff for vaccinations and weigh-ins. The yearly task to keep bison healthy and safe is no easy job. Dedicated wranglers work tirelessly using blockades and feed bait to entice the bison into progressively smaller pastures in order to conduct their check-ups.

The prairie currently houses over 2,600 bison, which includes 600-700 new baby bison that were born last spring.

– Connie Pearson, Jones PR


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Your Vote Matters: Three Oklahoma Elections That Prove It

Don't let long voter lines dissuade you from voting. Many elections are won by a mere handful of votes. (Photo by Paul Hellstern, The Oklahoman, Nov. 2, 2008.)

The election is next Tuesday, November 8. If you aren’t planning to vote because you don’t think it matters, think again. Here are three Oklahoma elections that prove every vote counts.

Jim Norick defeated Ray Ackerman for Oklahoma City Mayor by 782 votes in 1967. Norick had been mayor previously from 1959 to 1963 but lost reelection in 1963.

David Hall (D) defeated incumbent Gov. Dewey Bartlett, Sr. (R) in 1970 by 2,000 votes in the closest gubernatorial race in Oklahoma history.

Todd Thomsen (R) defeated Darrell Nemecek (D) in Ada’s House District 25 in 2006 by two votes.

– Chip Carter, Jones PR

 

Special Olympics Athlete Crowned All School Homecoming Queen

Destini Walkingstick was crowned homecoming queen by her fellow classmates. (Courtesy of Payton Fore Photography)

It’s the dream of many girls to be nominated as homecoming queen at their school, girls just like Destini Walkingstick – one of 27 seniors representing Fort Gibson High School clubs and activities. Destini, escorted by her father Robbie, was crowned the 2016 All School Homecoming Queen representing the Special Olympics on Friday, October 7, before the Tigers’ football game.

“We’re so proud of her,” said her mom, Lisa Walkingstick. “Destini is outgoing and makes friends with everyone.”

Destini has participated in Special Olympics for several years, competing in swimming and track. She also cheered with Twist and Shout in Muskogee.

– Connie Pearson, Jones PR

 

Cherry Street Farmer’s Market Ends With Harvest Dinner

Chefs for the TFM Harvest Dinner from left to right: Eli Huff of Salt Food Group, Taelor Barton of The Vault, Erik Reynolds of Smoke on Cherry Street, Amara Gray of Antoinette's Baking Co., Marc Lane of The Silo Event Center, ,Joe Hamilton of The Silo Event Center, Hope Egan of Red Thistle Catering Co. and Trey Winkle of R Bar & Grill- Tulsa. (Photo courtesy of Cherry Street Farmer's Market)

The Cherry Street Farmer’s Market has had another successful year, and the summer market will end October 22. Meanwhile, until April Tulsans can take advantage of the Winter Market on Wednesdays at Whole Foods on Brookside.

The Market ends the season with its annual fundraiser, Cherry Street Farmer’s Market Harvest Dinner, which takes place at The Silo Event Center at Red Berry Farm on October 23 at 5PM. The dinner features local chefs from some of Tulsa’s favorite restaurants; courses paired with specialty craft cocktails, beer and wine; and live music.

To attend, $125 tickets should be purchased in advance.

– Connie Pearson, Jones PR

 

Firelake Arena Rocks in Shawnee

See ZZ Top October 15 and other great concerts at Firelake Arena in Shawnee.

Firelake Arena, located in the Citizen Potawatomi Nation’s Firelake entertainment district on Shawnee’s south side, is offering some of the state’s best concerts and events. Not to be confused with the Grand Casino on I-35, this top venue provides a state-of-the-art video and sound experience and is open to all ages.

Upcoming shows include:

Oct. 29 – For King and Country

Nov. 11 – Firelake Boxing: Legacy Fighting Championship 62

Nov. 18—Lil Jon with special guest DJ Vegas Tagus

Dec. 3 – Turnpike Troubadours & Randy Rogers Band

Dec. 9 – The Brian Setzer Orchestra’s 13th Annual Christmas Rocks! Tour

– Chip Carter, Jones PR

 

Oktoberfest to Kick off Oct. 20 in Tulsa

Glockenspiel performers at Linde Oktoberfest Tulsa (Photo courtesy of Shane Bevel)

Since 1978, Tulsans have celebrated Oktoberfest without having to go to Deutschland. This year we can celebrate Bavarian culture at the Linde Oktoberfest Tulsa, October 20-23.

Experience great German beers, bratwursts and schnitzel while kids enjoy JugendZelt for rides, art activities and face paintings. Tickets can be purchased online or at the gate.

Linde Oktoberfest Tulsa was recognized by USA Today as one of the top 10 Oktoberfests in the country. It’s a great opportunity to spend the day with your family or have a night out with friends. Don’t forget to do the Chicken Dance at least once!

– Connie Pearson, Jones PR