CAVE IN TO CRAVINGS WHERE TO DINE
W H AT TO D O
IS THERE ANYTHING BETTER THAN A CRISPY, GOLDEN-BROWN, BREADED AND FRIED STEAK WHEN IT’S COLD OUTSIDE? SORRY CHILI, STEW AND SOUP FANS, BUT THE ANSWER IS NO.
WHERE TO FIND IT
WHEN IT’S HAPPENING
JANUARY 2019
BUDDY SYSTEM
WHEN IT COMES TO FITNESS, THERE’S STRENGTH IN NUMBERS
Believe
in Better
Ringing in 2019 with new Resolutions? Great. So how can you ensure that determination sticks past Valentine’s Day? We’ve got the answers.
PREVIEW918.COM
PAYING OFF PRESENTS 10 WAYS TO TACKLE HOLIDAY CREDIT CARD DEBT
WEIGHT FOR IT
15 FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN SEARCHING FOR A GYM
THE BOOK OF MORMON BEAUTY AND THE BEAST BOYZ II MEN DAVID SPADE GEARHEAD OUTFITTERS RONI PEPPO’S LOS CABOS GOODCENTS BLANK MED SPA
J U S T V I S I T I N G ? L I V I N G LO C A L? W E ’ V E G OT YO U C OV E R E D.
new tulsa casino & hotel
th ro u g ho u t
f e brua ry
s e e p l ay e r s e rv ic e s f o r d e ta i ls
8 7 7. 2 4 6 . 8 7 7 7
TULSA
osagecasino.com
M FROM THE MAYOR As mayor of Tulsa, it is my honor to welcome you to our great city. Whether you’re visiting, or have deep roots here, I invite you to take time to explore our beautiful city and discover all the things that set us apart from other cities.
Tough bike racing, the Tulsa Run, the Route 66 Marathon and the NCAA basketball tournament. The Tulsa area offers more than 80 miles of pedestrian and bicycle trails for a great way to see Tulsa.
I highly recommend Preview 918 as your go-to guide to navigate our incredible city. For more than 30 years, Preview has covered the 918, offering Tulsans and visitors alike the inside scoop to area restaurants and cafés, lodging, local attractions and events, world-class entertainment venues, tourist destinations, and unique shopping venues that are bound to please and delight. Our city is home to the world’s greatest collection of western art at the Gilcrease Museum as well as Italian Renaissance displays at the Philbrook Museum. It’s a treasure trove for lovers of architecture from mid-century modern housing to the downtown Art Deco District and our iconic BOK Center, designed by the internationally acclaimed architect César Pelli.
Tulsa is also a city on the move. In 2018, we opened the Gathering Place. The Gathering Place is a world class riverfront park designed to welcome all to a vibrant and inclusive public space that engages, educates and excites. I’m pleased so many of you have made your home in Tulsa. If you’re visiting our city, please enjoy your stay here. I also want to invite you to come back often to experience opportunities you won’t find anywhere else. In the meantime, you can find out more about Tulsa by visiting cityoftulsa.org.
Sports spectators can look to the University of Tulsa or Oral Roberts University athletic programs, Tulsa Oiler hockey games, and Tulsa Roughnecks soccer. Or time a visit to coincide with special events, such as Tulsa
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF | DIRECTOR OF BRAND AND STRATEGY Chris Greer chrisg@previewgreencountry.com MANAGING EDITOR/ SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR Michele Chiappetta michele@previewgreencountry.com CREATIVE DIRECTORS Jared Hood jared@previewgreencountry.com Beth Rose beth@previewgreencountry.com
4 JANUARY 2019
PREVIEW918.COM
For over 30 years, Preview 918 magazine has been the best resource for discovering Tulsa, Green Country and locating the perfect place to eat, visit, shop and be entertained, whether you are here on business or just enjoying a few days away from the grind. Located in the heart of Oklahoma, Tulsa is a year-round destination for shopping, dining, entertainment, scenic views, hikes and adventure. The rich history of Tulsa and its surrounding areas is reflected in the diversity of its museums, landmarks, history, wildlife, attractions, fine dining and friendly locals. In Tulsa, situated on the Arkansas River at the foothills of the Ozark Mountains, enjoy a performance or sporting event at the BOK Center, fish in one of the area’s many lakes, check out the sharks in the state’s only freestanding aquarium, explore any of the lush parks or break out the clubs and tackle any of the 16 public golf courses. Considered by many to be the cultural and arts center of Oklahoma, Tulsa offers full-time professional opera and ballet companies and one of the nation’s largest concentrations of art deco architecture. Regardless of your personal tastes or budget, Tulsa offers a down-home, yet cultured experience for all ages.
In over 100 area Hotels and Motels
Preview 918 is proudly displayed in the rooms, lobbies and/or front desks of over 100 hotels and motels in the Tulsa and surrounding Green Country communities. Copies are also available at hundreds of other locations including Oklahoma travel information centers, Tulsa International Airport visitor displays, Expo Square, office complexes, hospitals, Cancer Treatment Centers of America and in over 200 area restaurants. You can also find Preview 918 at participating QuikTrip, Reasor’s, CVS Pharmacies and Panera Bread locations as well as in Preview 918 yellow boxes throughout the Tulsa area.
For a night on the town, Tulsa serves up family entertainment at the Guthrie Green and Tulsa Drillers baseball at ONEOK Field. The Tulsa Performing Arts Center attracts Broadway musicals, renowned musicians and excellent local theater productions, and is home to the Tulsa Ballet.
FACEBOOK.COM/PREVIEW918
VOL. 33, NO. 1
Best regards, G.T. Bynum, Mayor of Tulsa
Tulsa’s unique entertainment and shopping districts provide enjoyable experiences for the entire family. From an art crawl in the Tulsa Arts District, to a concert at the historic Cain’s Ballroom, to a trip to the Tulsa Zoo or a leisurely drive along Route 66 — there’s no end to what you can experience here.
LIKE US!
PREV EW
FOLLOW US! PREVIEW918
G.T. Bynum
FOLLOW US!
@PREVIEWTULSA
MANAGING PHOTOGRAPHER Marc Rains marc@previewgreencountry.com
FIELD OPERATIONS MANAGER Stephen Hurt stephen@previewgreencountry.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Chris Greer, Michele Chiappetta, Tiffany Duncan, Donna Leahey, Rob Harmon, G.K. Hizer, Gina Conroy, Lindsay Morris, John Tranchina, Lindsey Mills, Jennifer Zehnder, Sarah Herrera, TravelOK.com
SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Ann Murphy ann@previewgreencountry.com
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Marc Rains, Sarah Eliza Roberts, Sarah Herrera, Jennifer Zehnder, Chelsi Fisher, Valerie Grant, Kelli Greer
ROUTE DISTRIBUTION Rachel Blanchard, Cory Blanchard, Garrett Rinner SENIOR CONSULTANT Randy Dietzel PUBLISHERS Robert and Amy Rinner robert@previewgreencountry.com
READ US!
WWW.ISSUU.COM/PREVIEWMAGAZINETULSA Local advertising and business inquiries: 918-745-1190. Copyright 2019 by Preview 918. Preview 918 is an affiliated publication produced by Fore Today Media Group. All rights reserved. Preview 918 is published 12 times a year. Reproduction without the permission of the publisher is prohibited. The publisher and editors are not responsible for unsolicited material and it will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication subject to Preview 918 ’s right to edit. While Preview 918 makes every reasonable effort to provide accurate and errorless information, it can’t be responsible for the consequences of any erratum or inadvertence. Preview 918 claims no credit for any images published in this issue unless otherwise noted. Images are copyright to their respective owners. The workouts, exercises and advice provided in Preview 918 and preview918.com are for educational and entertainment purposes only. Consult a physician before performing any exercise program. Preview 918, 10026-A S. Mingo, Suite 322, Tulsa, Oklahoma 74133 preview918.com info@previewgreencountry.com © Fore Today Publications LLC
PREVIEW918.COM 5
TABLE OF CONTENTS JANUARY 2019
C ON THE COVER
F FEATURES 22 MISSIONARY ZEAL
The Book of Mormon is a caricatured contrast between well-intentioned and gloriously naive first worlders confronting a cartoon of the Third World from the minds of South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone.
68 76 FRIED AND GONE TO HEAVEN
Chicken-fried steak is so popular that it’s served in many establishments, from diners to five-star restaurants, and prepared in several ways, from burgers to breakfast platters.
24 BE OUR GUEST
Theatre Tulsa brings a sweeping musical score, epic battles, hilarious romps, romance, magic and finally, the power of love to transform with its rendition of Beauty and the Beast.
82 HAVE A PIZZA THIS
Tucked into the back of the spacious Osage Casino, Roni Peppo’s offers an intoxicating jumble of crust, sauce and cheese that is nothing short of sublime.
26 READY TO GET AWAY?
Everyone needs something to look forward to, and what’s better than a vacation? But as valuable as travel is, it’s no excuse for going into debt or devouring your emergency fund.
86 THE AUTHENTIC TOUCH
Los Cabos offers up a range of dining experiences (traditional Mexican, coastal and Tex-Mex) along with innovative and daring drinks in a welcoming resort-style oasis reminiscent of a trip to Cancun or Cozumel.
30 CAN THE EXCUSES It can be daunting when your list of new year’s resolutions is as long as your holiday shopping list. However, it is important to remember that the new year isn’t meant to serve as a catalyst for sweeping character changes. It is a time to reflect on the past year’s behavior and endeavor to make positive lifestyle changes. Whether it’s getting fit, starting a new relationship, cutting down on consumption or paying off debt, there is no guaranteed path to wins. But we’ve put together a variety of ideas to help your success rate become more attainable.
18
22
Want to bolster chances of actually staying true to new year’s resolutions, whatever they may be? Then consider heeding these tips.
34 WEIGHT FOR IT
Before signing up for a gym membership, consider the following tips.
38 STRENGTH IN NUMBERS
Want to get more out of your workouts? Having the right workout buddy can often make all the difference in your results.
40 HOLIDAY DEBT BLUES
You’ve opened the gifts, and now it’s time to open those post-holiday credit card statements. While the situation can be stressful, there are many ways to recover from last month’s spending frenzy.
90 HEALTHY AND HEARTY Just because making a sandwich is easy doesn’t mean that making a great sandwich is within everyone’s reach. It takes something special to create a truly transcendent sandwich. Whatever that magic touch may be, Goodcents has it. 92 SPA-TACULAR Instead of trying to be everything to everyone, Blank Med Spa concentrates on their medical know-how and proven techniques to produce results that make clients happier with their skin.
16
D DEPARTMENTS 49 Downtown Locator
66 Failed It or Nailed It
50 Tulsa Locator
68 Eats + Treats
52 Sports Central
70 Restaurant + Bar Finder
54 Green Country Scene
72 Food for Thought
58 Style + Shopping
90 Masters of Flavor
20 Sound Check
60 Health + Fitness
92 Get to Know
42 Homegrown Heroes
62 Launch Pad
94 Shelf Life
47 Sports Schedule
64 Taken with Tulsa
96 Showtime
8 $91.80 in 48 Challenge 10 Music + Concerts +
Comedy
12 Happenings
76
42 COVER CREDIT Photographer: Sarah Eliza Roberts Model: Rachel Benight
6 JANUARY 2019
14 Street Talk 16 Conversation Starter
GIVE THE GIFT OF A DELICIOUS NIGHT OUT!
www.jtrgroup.com
918 $91.80 IN 48 CHALLENGE
STOP #1 SO, PROVIDING AN ENVELOPE OF CASH AND TELLING PEOPLE TO SPEND IT IN 48 HOURS ISN’T EXACTLY A CHALLENGE, BUT IT MAKES THIS ASSIGNMENT SOUND A LOT MORE INTERESTING.
Our family of four started the day with lunch at Mondo’s Ristorante Italian on Brookside. It was delicious from the mozzarella sticks to the baked rigatoni and pizza. It was our first time there, and we will definitely go back. COST: $50
STOP #2
Next, we headed downtown and visited The Boxyard. My favorite store was Okie Dokie. We picked up some Oklahoma knickknacks. COST: $25
STOP #3 We visited Boomtown Tees next and got some Oklahoma shirts.
The mission posed to Karla Martinez was to spend $91.80 (we used the local area code for the amount) in two days. And if they could find fun and free activities … bonus.
COST: $10
STOP #4 We ended our day with some ice cream from Rose Rock Microcreamery at The Boxyard. We had to take advantage of the warm winter day. COST: $8
The only catch was that she had to spend it at places, events or shops profiled in the December 2018 issue of Preview 918.
My family and I had such a great time doing the $91.80 Challenge. I’m so happy we got to experience some of the stuff Tulsa has to offer. We will be going back downtown more in the near future.
THINK YOU CAN BLOW OUR CASH IN INTERESTING WAYS? 8 JANUARY 2019
Like us on Facebook and drop a message with some of your ideas. We might just lace your pockets with green and turn you loose.
See our feature on page 86
PREVIEW918.COM 9
H HAPPENINGS JANUARY LIVE MUSIC VENUES 5 O’CLOCK SOMEWHERE BAR | RIVER SPIRIT CASINO RESORT
8330 Riverside Parkway | Tulsa
BLACKBIRD ON PEARL
1336 E. 6th St. | Tulsa
BOK CENTER
200 S. Denver Ave. | Tulsa
MUSIC+CONCERTS+COMEDY 1 HANGOVER BALL
19 DAVID SPADE
Cain’s Ballroom | Tulsa
Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Tulsa | Catoosa
BRADY THEATER
BOYZ II MEN
105 W. M.B. Brady St. | Tulsa
CABIN CREEK | HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO TULSA
777 W. Cherokee St. | Catoosa
River Spirit Casino Resort | Tulsa
2-5 ERIK MYERS
The Loony Bin | Tulsa
RIVERFIELD ROCKS Cain’s Ballroom | Tulsa
CAIN’S BALLROOM
423 N. Main St. | Tulsa
CROW CREEK TAVERN
3534 S. Peoria Ave. | Tulsa
4 THE FOUR TOPS
Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Tulsa | Catoosa
20 ATMOSPHERE
DOG IRON SALOON | CHEROKEE CASINO
Cain’s Ballroom | Tulsa
20900 S. 4200 Road | Claremore
GUTHRIE GREEN
111 E. M.B. Brady St. | Tulsa
IDL BALLROOM
DEMETRI MARTIN
9-12 WARREN B. HALL
Cox Business Center | Tulsa
The Loony Bin | Tulsa
230 E. 1st St. | Tulsa
INNER CIRCLE VODKA BAR 410 N. Main St. | Tulsa
JIMMY BUFFETT’S MARGARITAVILLE | RIVER SPIRIT CASINO RESORT
11 HEKLER
23-26 QUINN DAHLE
IDL Ballroom | Tulsa
The Loony Bin | Tulsa
8330 Riverside Pkwy. | Tulsa
MERCURY LOUNGE
1747 S. Boston Ave. | Tulsa
OKLAHOMA JAZZ HALL OF FAME
12 JOSH ABBOTT BAND
25 TONI BRAXTON
Cain’s Ballroom | Tulsa
5 S. Boston Ave. | Tulsa
River Spirit Casino Resort | Tulsa
SINBAD
PARADISE COVE | RIVER SPIRIT CASINO RESORT
CLAY WALKER
River Spirit Casino Resort | Tulsa
Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Tulsa | Catoosa
8330 Riverside Pkwy. | Tulsa
PEORIA SHOWPLACE | BUFFALO RUN CASINO & RESORT
1000 Buffalo Run Blvd. | Miami
RIFFS | HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO TULSA
16-19 SHAUN JONES
MIDLAND
Cain’s Ballroom | Tulsa
The Loony Bin | Tulsa
BRIAN REGAN
777 W. Cherokee St. | Catoosa
THE SHRINE
112 E. 18th St. | Tulsa
SOUL CITY
1621 E. 11th St. | Tulsa
Brady Theater | Tulsa
18 ERIC JOHNSON
Cain’s Ballroom | Tulsa
27 REEL BIG FISH
METALLICA
SOUNDPONY
BOK Center | Tulsa
409 N. Main St. | Tulsa
Cain’s Ballroom | Tulsa
THE COLONY
2809 S. Harvard Ave. | Tulsa
THE FUR SHOP
520 E. 3rd St. | Tulsa
SOUL CITY GASTROPUB RESIDENT SHOWS AND EVENTS
THE HUNT CLUB
224 N. Main St. | Tulsa
THE JOINT | HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO TULSA
777 W. Cherokee St. | Catoosa
THE VANGUARD
1621 E. 11th St. | Tulsa MONDAY: CLOSED // TUESDAY-FRIDAY: 4 P.M.- MIDNIGHT. // SATURDAY: 1 P.M.- MIDNIGHT // SUNDAY: 1 P.M.- 10 P.M.
TUESDAYS:
222 N. Main St. | Tulsa
WOODY GUTHRIE CENTER
102 E. M.B. Brady St. | Tulsa
WOODY’S CORNER BAR
325 E. 2nd St. | Tulsa
YETI
417 N. Main St. | Tulsa
10 JANUARY 2019
LIVE EVENT TRIVIA NIGHT (7 P.M.)
WEDNESDAYS:
THURSDAYS:
FRIDAYS:
SUNDAYS:
RANDY BRUMLEY
ROBERT HOEFLING
SUSAN HERNDON (5:30 P.M.)
DUSTIN PITTSLEY TRIO GOSPEL BRUNCH
DON AND STEVE WHITE
THE BEGONIAS
SCOTT MUSICK AND FRIENDS
BRUNER AND EICHER
(5 P.M.)
(8 P.M.)
(5 P.M.)
(8 P.M.)
(BIWEEKLY AT 8 P.M.)
(2 P.M.)
(6:30 P.M.)
FRIDAY
1.04
FRIDAY
1.25
THE FOUR TOPS
CLAY WALKER
SATURDAY
8PM
1.19
THURSDAY
8PM
2.14
SUNDAY
2.17
LIGHTING IT UP SCAN TO PURCHASE TICKETS
Schedule subject to change.
WILLIE NELSON
8PM
DAVID SPADE
COMMODORES
8PM
8PM
AI ALSO IN JANUARY JAN. 11-13
BIG OM YOGA RETREAT Sequoyah State Park and Lodge | Hulbert
JAN. 1
NEW YEAR’S DAY JAN. 1-6
WINTERFEST Downtown Tulsa JAN. 1-6
GARDEN OF LIGHTS Tulsa Botanic Garden | Tulsa JAN. 2-5
TULSA SHOOTOUT Expo Square | Tulsa JAN. 4
FIRST FRIDAY ART CRAWL Tulsa Arts District | Tulsa JAN. 5
PROKOFIEV’S ROMEO AND JULIET Tulsa Performing Arts
JAN. 11-26
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST Tulsa Performing Arts Center | Tulsa
JAN. 12
918 FITNESS EXPO Cox Business Center | Tulsa JAN. 14-19
CHILI BOWL Expo Square | Tulsa JAN. 17
TULSA REGIONAL CHAMBER ANNUAL MEETING AND INAUGURATION Cox Business Center | Tulsa
JAN. 8-13
WESTERN HILLS WINTER BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL Sequoyah State Park |
THE BOOK OF MORMON Tulsa Performing Arts Center | Tulsa
12 JANUARY 2019
JAN. 19
TOYLAND BALL Cox Business Center | Tulsa HIGH PERFORMANCE RACING AUCTION TRADE SHOW AND SWAP MEET Expo Square | Tulsa MAD DOG DEMOLITION DERBY Claremore Expo Center | Claremore
JAN. 20
WILD KRATTS LIVE 2.0 Tulsa Performing Arts Center | Tulsa
JAN. 17-19
JAN. 5-6
OKLAHOMA GUN SHOW Expo Square | Tulsa
TULSA BALLET: PETER AND THE WOLF Zarrow Performance Studio | Broken Arrow
WORLD OF WRESTLING FLO TULSA NATIONALS Expo Square | Tulsa
Center | Tulsa
JAN. 18
Wagoner
JAN. 24-26
CHRIST IN YOUTH Cox Business Center | Tulsa JAN. 25
GOLDEN HORNET’S THE SOUND OF SCIENCE FEATURING JEFF ZEIGLER Tulsa Performing Arts Center | Tulsa
JAN. 25-27
GREEN COUNTRY HOME AND GARDEN SHOW Expo Square | Tulsa JAN. 26-27
R.K. GUN AND KNIFE SHOW Expo Square | Tulsa JAN. 27
KENARI SAXOPHONE QUARTET Tulsa Performing Arts Center | Tulsa
JAN. 28-FEB. 3
TULSA BOAT, SPORT AND TRAVEL SHOW Expo Square | Tulsa JAN. 21
MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY
JAN. 31-FEB. 1
KIDS, KOWS AND MORE Expo Square | Tulsa
PREVIEW918.COM 13
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE WAY TO STAY ACTIVE?
ST STREET TALK
I love to explore my community by riding my bike or going for a jog. It’s nice to slow down a little but still get that sweet kick of endorphins.
Dancing. I am a dance teacher.
Martina
Joshua
Variety is key. While I’ve always been a long-distance runner, this year I began incorporating other activities, including weightlifting and yoga. Now, each day brings something new and exciting.
Jill
Devon
I am a runner of marathons. The best part is I am now a paid coach and coordinator at Fleet Feet Tulsa, so it’s not only a great way to stay active; I get paid to do it.
Walking my owner, David.
Spencer
Marty
I park as far away from the store or mall or whatever as possible. You can get like quadruple the steps just walking across a parking lot, and it only takes a few extra minutes.
Amy
My church does a #Joyride mission that includes building and gifting bicycles to foster children in Tulsa County.
Have a toddler.
Lisa
Kenneth
I like doing stuff outside. If I’m inside, I’m going to be lazy. Get me outside, and I’m energetic and excited like a puppy. Inside I’m more like an old dog.
I like to be active doing things like working in the yard, furniture projects and working in the garage.
Zach I like to get involved in the 5k charity runs held throughout the year.
Anna
Charles
I ride a bicycle. I’ve found my bicycle does not lie to me or cheat on me, and my personal favorite, does not actively recruit someone that can ride better.
Disc golf.
Wayne
Brad
I go to the gym and work out on the elliptical and the treadmill, do some weights. I wouldn’t say it’s my ‘favorite,’ necessarily, but it’s what I have to do to stay active.
Cathy Barre classes.
Whitney
I go to the gym. I also walk my dog three or four times a day.
Ryan
WANT TO JOIN THE DISCUSSION? WE’LL POST A QUESTION ON OUR FACEBOOK EACH MONTH. GIVE US AN ANSWER AND PHOTO, AND YOU MIGHT END UP IN OUR MAGAZINE.
14 JANUARY 2019
Spending time outside hiking, running, or sightseeing. We like to run a 5k each month.
I exercise five days a week at Orangetheory Fitness in midtown.
Joy
Tulsa's #1 Antique Mall Since 1996! I-44 Antique and Collectibles Mall has been Tulsa's #1 Antique Store since 1996. Come and see what our more than 50 vendors have to offer in our 9,000 square feet of dealer space.
Celebrating + Years!
20
918.712.2222 | www.i44antiquemall.com Mon-Sat 10am-5pm • Sunday 12-5pm 5111 S. Peoria • Tulsa, Oklahoma
PREVIEW918.COM 15
CS CONVERSATION STARTER
SINCE BOYZ II MEN FIRST BEGAN REHEARSING TOGETHER IN THE BATHROOM AT THE PHILADELPHIA HIGH SCHOOL FOR THE CREATIVE AND PERFORMING ARTS, THOSE GOLDEN, INTERTWINED DOO-WOP PIPES HAVE DEFINED THE POP-CULTURALLY DOMINANT HITMAKERS OF THE 1990S AND 2000S. BY DONNA LEAHEY
Known for their emotionally powerful ballads, rock-solid a capella harmonies, and soaring vocals, R&B icons Boyz II Men have been bringing the music since the ‘90s. Their timeless hits include “End of the Road,” “I’ll Make Love to You,” “One Sweet Day,” “It’s So Hard to Say Goodbye to Yesterday,” “Motownphilly” and many others. The group — Nathan Morris, Wanya Morris, and Shawn Stockman — has raked in the awards in their twoand-a-half-decade career, including four Grammy Awards, nine American Music Awards, nine Soul Train Awards, three
16 JANUARY 2019
Billboard Awards, a 2011 MOBO (Music of Black Origin) Award for Outstanding Contribution to Music, a Casino Entertainment Award for their acclaimed residency at the Mirage Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The best-selling R&B group of all time with an astounding 64 million albums sold doesn’t rest on its laurels; they keep putting out new albums and bringing their rich harmonies to stages across the world. Beyond making music, giving back is also
important to Boyz II Men — the group has its own charity called Boyz II Men House. Boyz II Men have won fans the world over with their soulful multi-octave sound and incredible vocals. Given the monumental success of their albums and the timeless quality of their vocals, it’s easy to see why Boyz II Men remains the most popular R&B group of all time. Stockman took time to answer questions for Preview 918 ahead of their appearance at the Paradise Cove.
Q. WHAT CAN
Q. WHO ARE SOME
A. We are so excited to be
A. We are fans of a bunch
YOUR CHARITY, THE BOYZ II MEN HOUSE. WHAT’S ITS PURPOSE? WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO YOU?
A. Growing up and
throughout our careers we had to work hard so we’ve never taken our success for granted. It has made us realize that so many people look up to us for inspiration, so we make it one of our goals to give back which is why we created the Boyz II Men house to help causes we care about.
Q. IS THERE ANY
OTHER PHILANTHROPY YOU’D LIKE TO TELL US ABOUT?
A. We are all passionate about
giving back, but for me, I am very involved with the autism community as my son, Micah, is autistic. My wife [Sharhonda] and I created a charity, Micah’s Voice, to help other families affected by autism and provide them with the tools and resources that they need.
Q. YOUR LATEST
ALBUM, UNDER THE STREETLIGHT, WAS RELEASED IN 2017. IS THERE ANOTHER ALBUM IN THE WORKS?
talent where he can sing pretty much any part, so it didn’t change the feel of the music.
Q. WITH THE
RESIDENCY AT THE MIRAGE COMING TO AN END, WHAT’S THE NEXT BIG THING FOR BOYZ II MEN?
A. We have been re-signed
for another three years, so we’re excited to keep doing what we love.
A. You will have to wait and see. Q. WHAT KEEPS BOYZ II MEN WORKING TOGETHER SO WELL Q. BOYZ II MEN FORMED AT PHILADELPHIA HIGH SCHOOL FOR THE CREATIVE AND PERFORMING ARTS. WHAT CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THE IMPACT OF THAT SCHOOL ON YOU AND BOYZ II MEN?
A. We formed in high school,
and being at a performing arts school had a huge influence on our careers. Having the chance to meet one another and perform onstage together before we “made it” was a lot of fun and helped us form our sound and values as a group.
Q. MICHAEL MCCARY, WHO SANG BASS, LEFT BOYZ II MEN ABOUT 15 YEARS AGO. HOW DOES PERFORMING AS A TRIO INSTEAD OF A QUARTET CHANGE THE FEEL OF THE MUSIC?
AFTER TWO DECADES?
A. I think it all comes down to our philosophy as artists. We are committed to creating timeless music our fans can enjoy for years to come. With a common goal, no matter what happens we are all looking to be successful, which keeps us together and strong.
BOYZ II MEN Paradise Cove | River Spirit Casino Resort 8330 Riverside Parkway | Tulsa 888-748-3731 riverspirittulsa.com
R
Q. TELL US ABOUT
of musicians, and aside from New Edition/BBD, we are all very inspired by Prince.
A. Nate has an amazing
TO
on the road and seeing our fans around the country. Fans can expect a really fun show filled with their favorite songs. For fans who haven’t seen our show in Vegas, they’ll also get the chance to see me and Nate jam out on guitars.
OF YOUR MUSICAL INFLUENCES?
CA
FANS EXPECT FROM THIS TOUR?
LO
BOYZIIME
CONVERSATION STARTER CS
Jan. 19: 8 p.m. Must be 21 or older to attend
PREVIEW918.COM 17
CS CONVERSATION STARTER
DAVID SPADE’S SARCASTIC BRAND OF COMEDY CAME TO NATIONAL ATTENTION WITH HIS RUN ON SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE IN THE EARLY 1990S AND CONTINUED WITH TELEVISION (JUST SHOOT ME!, 8 SIMPLE RULES) AND MOVIE SUCCESS (BLACK SHEEP, TOMMY BOY, GROWN UPS). BY G.K. HIZER
18 JANUARY 2019
CONVERSATION STARTER CS
After departing SNL, he turned down a number of roles before settling into the office sitcom Just Shoot Me! as receptionist Dennis Finch from 1997-2003.
Spade has remained in the spotlight with regular movie work, and had major hits for his ensemble work with SNL alumni Adam Sandler, Chris Rock, and Rob Schneider in Grown Ups (2010) and Grown Ups 2 (2013). Amid all of the acting work, Spade never lost his love for the stage or his comic timing. Still touring consistently, Spade makes frequent appearances in Las Vegas as well as in comedy clubs and theaters nationwide. Following the release of his memoir, Almost Interesting, and audio book A Polaroid Guy In a Snap Chat World, fans have come to know Spade for his vivid storytelling, punctuated with his comic timing and self-deprecating commentary.
Even when he’s not in the spotlight, Spade has continued to stay in the public’s collective subconscious, with a multitude of voice-over work, including major roles in The Emperor’s New Groove (voicing Emperor Kuzco) and Hotel Transylvania (as Griffin the Invisible Man) as well as showing up in regular commercial work. Although Spade generally doesn’t approach political issues, the time is ripe for Spade’s particular sense of humor. Colorful storytelling, observational commentary, and a certain mix of sarcasm, snarkiness, and passive-aggressive wit may be the perfect way to counter the unbridled craziness of the world
outside. When Spade takes the stage, he captures your attention and takes you away from it all as he winds you up in his stories, throws out a few one-liners, then draws it out a little more for a big release that keeps audiences laughing.
DAVID SPADE The Joint: Tulsa | Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa 777 W. Cherokee St. | Catoosa 918-384-ROCK (x7625) hardrockcasinotulsa.com
R
In 1990, Spade joined his friend and fellow comedian, Dennis Miller, at Saturday Night Live. Initially brought in as a writer (Spade has shared that most of his early material was given to Dana Carvey during that period), Spade graduated to cast member for a tenure that lasted through the 1996 season. As a regular feature performer, Spade was commonly known for his sarcastic wisecracks, whether as Christy Henderson of the Gap Girls, the dry and bitter flight attendant dismissing guests with a snarky “Buh-Bye” or sniping at celebrities as the reporter for Hollywood Minute.
TO
That merely laid the groundwork for what was to come.
Of course, his success on Saturday Night Live didn’t leave him with only television options. Along with many of his fellow SNL alumni, Spade made the transition to the big screen, making a splash co-starring with another SNL alum, Chris Farley, in both Tommy Boy (1995) and Black Sheep (1996). After a number of co-starring roles, Spade took over the spotlight as Joe Dirt (2001), which he co-wrote with Fred Wolf. That role took on a life of its own, even spawning a sequel, Joe Dirt 2: Beautiful Loser (2015), that went on to become Crackle’s most successful original programming to date, with over 2 million streaming views.
CA
Born in Birmingham, Mich., and raised in Scottsdale, Ariz., with his two brothers by his mother, Judith, Spade learned to love the spotlight while in college. While attending Arizona State University, he performed stand-up at the school’s long running sketch comedy show, Farce Side Comedy Hour. He also became a regular of sorts, performing in the Monday night comedy show at Greasy Tony’s Pizza in Tempe during the mid-‘80s.
Not only did the role make him a prime-time favorite, but it also garnered him nominations for one Emmy and two Golden Globe Awards. He returned to sitcoms in 2007 as a member of CBS comedy Rules of Engagement, which ran through 2013.
LO
Most nights, when the lights are up at The Joint: Tulsa, it’s with music in the air and the crowd singing along. On Jan. 19, the spotlights will be shining, but this time the crowd will be laughing along as David Spade brings his special brand of stand-up comedy to his Tulsa fans.
Jan. 19: 8 p.m. Must be 21 or older to attend
PREVIEW918.COM 19
SC SOUND CHECK
Now Ear This
Jeff Sloan
Whether you prefer traditional jazz or something more experimental and avant-garde, vocal or instrumental music, the doors are open at Duet for a bit of everything, including a vibrant menu and an arsenal of drink options. BY G.K. HIZER
Tulsa music lovers, rejoice. Whether you’re a jazz aficionado, a fan of either traditional or experimental music, or merely looking for the latest hip place to enjoy your weekend, make your way to the Tulsa Arts District inside the historic Archer Building. Duet is a “blink and you’ll miss it” stop as you cross the bridge into the Arts District. The restaurant is a gem of its own for Tulsa foodies. It’s a modern and classy open floorplan, complete with a cozy bar in the southeast corner and a great wine list that sets the stage for Nico Albert’s latest culinary creations. Albert finds a way to meld her Native American heritage with passion for both Mexican and
20 JANUARY 2019
New Orleans culture and cuisine to throw a fresh and modern spin on some classic dishes. Downstairs is where the magic happens for music lovers. Tucked away in the basement is a jazz club. You can take the elevator, stroll down the stairs from the restaurant, or follow the streetside mural down a flight of stairs to the speakeasy entrance. Whatever you might picture a classic jazz club to look like, this checks all the boxes. Recessed lights, small cocktail tables throughout the room, an understated stage, and seating around the perimeter set the mood while the back of the room features a fully stocked bar featuring a choice selection of spirits — including some
impressive whiskeys and vodkas to enjoy with some classy tunes. Strip away any clichés, however, and give it a modern spin. Oklahoma-sourced limestone lines the walls to give the room a classy, yet slightly rustic feel while the LED backlit onyx bar is pure, understated modern flash. The man behind the music is programming director, Jeff Sloan. A Tulsa native who followed his muse to the West Coast, Sloan has a background in sound engineering and production, having worked with a number of artists including Tom Waits, with whom he garnered three Grammys and a gold record. His love of jazz had him working as production coordinator and chief audio engineer at the prestigious Kuumbwa Jazz Club in Santa
Cruz, Calif., and with Monterey Jazz Festival for a solid tenure. When his name came up through a few series of well-synced events, however, he ended up meeting with Stanton Doyle about the position while back in town to visit his aging father. In the end, it led to an offer good enough to lead him back home to Tulsa to oversee Duet. When discussing the room with Sloan, he explained that he provided a great amount of input and influence in developing the room, from the sound equipment and staging to helping select the lighting. His vision for the room may not have been as simple as it sounds, however. “I really wanted people to step into something out of their time
paradise never sounded
Duet features live music Wednesday through Saturday nights, generally featuring local talent Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday nights, but that can shift around touring artists’ availability. “I came from a situation where you could bring in almost any artist six days of the week,” he says. “Here, the hurdle has really been educating the audience and getting people up to speed.” The challenge has been getting nationally touring artists to stop in Tulsa, although Sloan has already done a great job of jumpstarting that movement.
The club even features two comedy nights each month, in conjunction with Blue Whale, introducing new audiences to the intimate venue. “We’re trying to build something that people want to return to, so even if they don’t know who it is, they’ve come to expect a certain level of quality and know that it will be worth returning,” Sloan says. So far, he has accomplished just that and already started creating excitement for what’s to come.
So Good.
sinbad jan 12 Boyz ii men jan 19 Toni braxton jan 25 styx feb 14 michael bolton Feb 21 charlie wilson feb 22
Live Music 7 Nights a Week And at 9pm in 5 o’Clock Somewhere Bar and 10 pm every day in Margaritaville! Visit margaritavilletulsa.com for a complete schedule.
DUET 108 N. Detroit Ave. | Tulsa 918-398-7201 duetjazz.com
R
Since opening in October 2018, Duet has hosted a bevy of top-flight artists, including The Bad Plus, Delfeayo Marsalis, Charlie Hunter, Gabriel Royal, and Allison Miller and Boom Tic Boom. The room has featured a great cross-section of local talent as well, including Combsy (Chris Combs’ current project), Olivia Duhon, Booker Gillespie, and Mike Cameron.
“It’s good for the artists when they’re playing new rooms and reaching new audiences, and Tulsa can be just that for them. We’re close enough to Kansas City and Denver, which is becoming a great jazz city, to be a part of that routing and start drawing those artists.”
TO
“We’re really geared to be a listening room,” Sloan says. “We want this to be a place where artists can be creative and music lovers can relax and enjoy it. This is not just a bar or a hangout. Our focus is on bringing high quality live jazz to Tulsa and we want to give people a place to get away. We hope our audience can become one with the artist and the space.”
CA
The vibe of the room captures exactly that, but that’s merely the starting point.
“Getting nationally or internationally touring acts is really about routing,” he says. “I’ve built a route from Chicago to Albuquerque that covers 11 states and 33 venues. That’s not to say that an artist will play all of them or all of the venues will want to book them, but when you’re part of a routing and a plan, that can be the difference between paying $2,000 or $3,000 for an act instead of $5,000 or maybe $8,000 for a fly-in date.
LO
when they entered the room,” he says. “I wanted them to feel like they’re not in Tulsa, but in a jazz club in New York, or Paris, or Seattle, or San Francisco — to be teleported somewhere else.”
81st & RIVERSIDE
•
888-748-3731
•
RIVERSPIRITTULSA.COM
Monday-Sunday: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.
PREVIEW918.COM 21
THE BOOK OF MORMON IS A CARICATURED CONTRAST BETWEEN WELL-INTENTIONED AND GLORIOUSLY NAIVE FIRST WORLDERS CONFRONTING A CARTOON OF THE THIRD WORLD FROM THE MINDS OF SOUTH PARK CREATORS TREY PARKER AND MATT STONE. By Gina Conroy
Politically incorrect? Definitely. Irreverent? Absolutely. Satirically funny? For sure. Profane? No doubt. Then why is The Book of Mormon, a musical comedy full of religious fervor and brash humor, loved by audiences everywhere and named “the best musical of the century” by The New York Times? Connor Peirson, who plays Elder Cunningham, the naïve and awkward Mormon missionary, says one of the reasons the show is so popular is that it’s the “musical for musical lovers.”
22 JANUARY 2019
Photos by Julieta Cervantes
The story follows a classic musical theme with the same elements found in shows like Oklahoma and The Sound of Music. But it has a very modern twist. With its irreverent tones and outright blasphemy, some may say a modern twist might be putting it mildly. While this show doesn’t shy away from difficult topics like poverty, famine, AIDS, and homosexuality, it does offer audiences levity, hysterics, and surprising moments of warmth all wrapped inside a proselytizing show tune.
The Book of Mormon follows two Mormons on their first mission to Africa, the last place either of them expected to end up. While the devout Elder Price prayed for a mission to Orlando, not only has God not answered his prayers, but he’s partnered him with the unappealing Elder Cunningham, a compulsive liar who is as awkward and clumsy as Elder Price is charming.
“They experience culture shock, something neither of them anticipated.” Peirson, who’s been with the show for four years, yet only started playing the role of Elder Cunningham two years ago, says his character is someone people can relate to.
“He’s an oddball,” says Peirson. “He keeps missing the mark, “These two Mormon missionaries and audiences relate to him.” have prepped for missions all their life, but end up being When Peirson meets audiences sent to Uganda,” says Peirson. at the stage door, they tell
him they really enjoyed the character. Although Peirson’s character is endearing, he admits there are elements of the show that can make people uncomfortable. “Humor is the best way to talk about hard topics,” says Peirson, who believes comedy can create a comfortable atmosphere and doorway for conversation about difficult subjects. “If you make someone laugh, then hit them with hard questions, they’re more likely to talk about the important issues.” This isn’t just some ruthless teardown of Mormons. It ridicules beliefs and the institution without mercy, but backs off on actual humans. The attacks are philosophical, not personal. In the end, all the missionaries are just a bunch of naive children trying to figure life out. Despite the religious satire, The Book of Mormon is a profaith show at the core. The Mormon religion is used as a backdrop for exploration into the deeper message of faith that permeates all religions.
Audiences could simply enjoy The Book of Mormon for what it is: a satirical, irreverent story told through song and dance in the style of Monty Python and South Park, and that would be OK. But audiences would miss the deeper message. “Through the tests and trials encountered by the young missionaries, they take a deeper look and reevaluate what they believe and why,” says Peirson. “It’s a show about friendship, perseverance, and faith.” At its core, The Book of Mormon doesn’t condemn people of faith. On the contrary, it leaves audiences feeling if what they believe makes you a better and happier person, then it’s not only good for you, but for society as a whole.
THE BOOK OF MORMON Tulsa Performing Arts Center | Tulsa
CA LO
“It generates conversations that people wouldn’t normally get into,” says Peirson, who admits the show can be shocking to the more devout, but says it all pays off in the punchline.
TO
R
“It evokes self-examination as to why we believe what we believe,” says Peirson. And it’s the humor that allows people to question blind faith and asks some tough questions about the seemingly illogical things we believe.
“[The Book of Mormon] is one of my favorite shows,” says theater-goer Billy Whala, who has seen the show three times. “It’s hilarious with great songs and a surprisingly wholesome point of view.”
Jan. 8-10: 7:30 p.m. Jan. 11: 8 p.m. Jan. 12: 2 p.m., 8 p.m. Jan. 13: 1 p.m., 6:30 p.m.
PREVIEW918.COM 23
Be Our Guest Theatre Tulsa brings a sweeping musical score, epic battles, hilarious romps, romance, magic and finally, the power of love to transform with its rendition of Beauty and the Beast. By Gina Conroy
Audiences have seen Disney’s Beauty and the Beast on national tours. They’ve watched the enchanted objects come to life in auditoriums. But it’s been a decade since Tulsa has experienced this tale in community theater, which not only offers the intimacy of a high school production, but the talent and quality of a professional tour. Artistic director Sara Phoenix, who is in her seventh season with Theatre Tulsa, is excited to bring this beloved story to life in a way that Tulsa audiences have never seen before. You know the story: Selfish prince gets turned into a beast; his servants transformed into magical household objects; meets plucky girl; life lessons, romance, and dancing flatware
24 JANUARY 2019
ensue. The key to the success of Disney’s 1991 movie was its clever, swoon-worthy songs and gaggle of fast-talking, anthropomorphized candlesticks and feather dusters.
says Phoenix. “Unless you have seats in the first several rows, you’ve never experienced this level of talent up close like you will with Theatre Tulsa’s production.”
While most people have seen the professional production of Beauty and the Beast in big theatres like the Chapman Musical Hall at the Tulsa Performing Arts Center with over 2,300 seats, Theatre Tulsa’s performance will be in the Williams Theatre which seats 420 people.
In a smaller theater, audiences can see the expressions on the actors’ faces. In addition, since it’s a local production, the actors tend to put more heart into the show because they’re performing for people they know. Phoenix compares community theater to college football. "They’re our people, and it’s a more intimate experience.”
“On the big national tours, people miss the nuances that come from performing in a smaller theater,”
But just because it’s community theater doesn’t mean it’s lacking a quality performance. Phoenix,
who had over a hundred people audition for the show but could only cast 32, says Tulsa audiences will be blown away by the caliber of talent and top-notch performers in the show. “Tulsa has so many incredible actors in town who are just as good as the national talent,” says Phoenix. “We’re lucky we got a first-rate cast.” In fact, most of the actors have worked professionally in places such as New York. “The cast brings a beautiful and spectacular performance,“ says Phoenix. “There’s not a soul in the show who can’t sing, and the dancing is wonderful.” “Everyone is such a force of nature,” says Phoenix. “I just have to keep them from overpowering each other, which is a good problem to have.”
Despite the challenges of a production this elaborate and technical, Theatre Tulsa brings all the Disney magic and flair to the stage. “It’s such a fun show without a dead moment,” says Phoenix. “There’s something for everyone.” Many people may not know that Theatre Tulsa has been around since 1922 and is one of the anchor arts organizations in Tulsa. “We’re a multigenerational, mainstream theater company, with most of our main stage shows being family friendly,” explains Phoenix, who grew up in Tulsa doing shows with Theatre Tulsa when she was younger. Later, she got her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Performance from the University of Oklahoma. After graduation, she worked as a freelance director and choreographer in Tulsa and Oklahoma City as well as having taught high school theater in Oklahoma City.
performances in their Next Stage brand, edgier and more thoughtprovoking, in contemporary and classic plays and musicals. No matter what show audiences see, Phoenix hopes people realize that when they come to a Theatre Tulsa show, they’re going to get a quality performance. And since their season subscriptions have doubled in the last year, she thinks what they are doing is working. “I love standing at the back of the theater and watching people walk out with smiles on their faces, surprised at the talent we have and what we’re able to accomplish,” says Phoenix. “My greatest reward is seeing people walk out having had a great night of theater, and I think Beauty and the Beast is a great opportunity for that.”
When she landed at Theatre Tulsa in 2012, she says they were still struggling to find their identity.
In addition to their musical theater and Broadway Academy performances for kids, Theatre Tulsa offers two to three
TO
R
Tulsa Performing Arts Center | Tulsa
CA
Today, Theatre Tulsa offers two to three shows a year and five musicals, as well four youth productions, including a summer intensive.
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST
LO
“I had a lot of thoughts and ideas based on my experience working with other theatres on how we could take the company to the next level,” says Phoenix.
Jan. 11-12: 8 p.m. Jan. 13: 2 p.m. Jan. 18-19: 8 p.m. Jan. 20: 2 p.m. Jan. 24-25: 8 p.m. Jan. 26: 2 p.m., 8 p.m.
See our feature on page 90
PREVIEW918.COM 25
EVERYONE NEEDS SOMETHING TO LOOK FORWARD TO, AND WHAT’S BETTER THAN A VACATION? BUT AS VALUABLE AS TRAVEL IS, IT’S NO EXCUSE FOR GOING INTO DEBT OR DEVOURING YOUR EMERGENCY FUND. By Lindsay Morris The holidays have come to an end, and you might be tapped out financially from all that money you spent on Christmas gifts. But perhaps you are mapping out your next vacation, and you realize you need to start saving now. Time away can mean different things to different people, of course. For some, it’s sun and sand. For others, train tickets and backpacks. For more still, canoes and tents. Whatever your idea of a fabulous vacation, it never hurts to start saving. The more pennies you can tuck away, the more dates on your calendar you can star and circle. There are two ways financially to do a vacation: a) save for it now and pay for it in advance (or as it’s happening), or b) put it on credit cards and pay for it later, but you’ll likely end up paying far more in interest than what the trip originally cost.
26 JANUARY 2019
Unless you want to pay $10,000 for a $5,000 trip, it’s time to start putting aside some cash. Keep in mind that discipline is key, but extreme asceticism can backfire. Be realistic. Overestimating the amount you can save is ultimately counterproductive, because if you keep restricting yourself too much and failing, you will become disheartened and eventually abandon the project. Even if you don’t have a ton of income, there are some little things you can do that will add up over the next few months. That summer vacation of your dreams can become a reality if you’ll be diligent to follow these vacation-saving tips.
REASSESS YOUR MONTHLY BILLS The start of the year is a great time to kick things into motion. Try to identify areas of redundancy that you can just cut back. Really pore over your monthly bank statements. Not only is it a great way to figure out what spending areas you should be trimming, it’s also an opportunity to flag any subscription-based services that you no longer need. One nobrainer step you should already be doing is paying all your bills online. It’s a lot more convenient, and you’ll be saving on postage.
OPEN A DEDICATED VACATION SAVINGS ACCOUNT This is going to be your best bet to making sure you set aside the
funds needed to go to a sunny beach this year. How much is your trip going to cost? Determine that first, and be sure to include money for all the little things you usually forget, such as airport parking, tips, and souvenirs. If you go this route, make sure you do not face any minimum balance penalties when you actually start to spend the money you’ve saved. It may also be useful to have ATM and online access to the account, which will let you draw money directly from the account when booking and while you travel.
BE DILIGENT ABOUT SETTING ASIDE MONEY EACH PAYCHECK Just opening that vacation savings account won’t do any good until you put money in it. Do the math and determine how much you’ll need to set aside each paycheck. Naturally, there may be times you’ll have to pay for a car repair instead of putting money into the vacation fund. When you happen to get a nice birthday check from grandma, consider putting that toward the vacation too.
STASH YOUR CASH Pick one day each week to look in your wallet. If there’s green in there, thin it out and stash some away. It can be all of your $1 bills, a $20 each time, half of whatever you find, or any other amount you’d like. Put it in an envelope and pretend you never had it. Once your vacation plans take shape, dive into your secret cash stash and see where you stand. The total might not be
enough for airfare, but it could buy a few dinners out of town.
MAKE A LITTLE MONEY ON THE SIDE Maybe you’ve calculated how much you need to save, and you’ve come to the sobering realization that you won’t be able to save that amount without selling a kidney. Well, why not get a side hustle? Something legal, of course. Consider becoming an Uber or Lyft driver, delivering pizzas, baby-sitting or working at a retail store outside of your regular work hours.
CUT BACK ON YOUR FOOD BUDGET Unless you’re a college student who is already surviving on ramen noodles, chances are, there are a few food items you could cut out or spend less on. Consider cutting back on eating out. Plan out your meals carefully and buy only items you’ll need for that week. Buy food in bulk to cut costs, and consider using a grocery app like Ibotta to get refunds on your grocery bill.
SAVE MONEY ON HOUSING Is there anything you can do to spend less on your monthly rent or mortgage? Sure, moving is always an option. Maybe you can get a roommate. Perhaps you could Airbnb your place or a room. Some simple home repairs
such as better insulation can even help you save on monthly bills.
SELL STUFF We live in an era where your trash is another man’s treasure, all thanks to a simple internet search. Consider posting big items on Craigslist, Amazon, eBay, or Facebook Marketplace. Take smaller items, such as clothes, shoes and jewelry to a consignment store. Or throw it all on your front lawn (in an organized fashion) and host a garage sale.
GET AIRLINE MILES A little homework could pay off big. Credit card companies are competitive, which is a good thing for consumers. Apply for a card that offers airline miles or hotel, cruise or resort points. If you’re disciplined enough to pay the balance, pay a few bills with the card each month. You’ll earn points for things you already buy — that’s called free money. Definitely read the fine print, though. Many cards with good perks have
annual fees and/or high interest rates, so it’s important to know what you’re signing up for.
SKIP THE GYM MEMBERSHIP Yes, it’s January and everyone is getting a gym membership. But these days, it is possible to get in shape without paying a monthly fee. You can find thousands of amazing workout videos on YouTube. If you must have a gym membership, consider a gym with a low monthly fee. Naturally, you’ll want to get or stay in shape for your vacation, but it doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg.
CLEAR THE PANTRY When’s the last time you saw the bottom of your freezer or the
back of your kitchen cabinet? Do your best to eat what you have for a week or two. Sure, you’ll have to head to the grocery store for basic staples and produce, but you’d be amazed at how long you can eat on what you already have. Mashup meals can save you as much as $100 every few months by minimizing big trips to the grocery store. And who knows? Maybe you’ll stumble on a new favorite recipe.
GET EVERYONE INVOLVED Parents know that travel costs multiply dramatically when kids are added to the mix (more plane tickets, bigger rental cars, more beds, etc.). If your kids get allowances, or if you give them a weekly spending budget, they should help save for the trip as well, whether in cash from their allowance or from their spending limits. Explain that vacations cost extra, and that while you are still paying bills at home during the trip and will cover most of the travel expenses, they
will need to save up for any little extra stuff they want to buy.
MAKE A TRADE Look at your weekly budget to see how you’re spending your money. Can you make a trade? Brew your own coffee instead of buying designer lattes. Visit Redbox or sign up for Netflix instead of seeing new movies. Pack your lunch more often to save eatingout cash. Then, set aside the money you saved each week for your vacation fund. You’re used to spending it anyway, so you won’t miss it. Just picture beaches while you’re eating your PB&J.
MAKE PLANS TO VACATION ON THE CHEAP Instead of a pricy hotel room, look for an affordable Airbnb in the area you’ll be visiting. Consider staying somewhere with a fridge and cooking appliances so you can save money by preparing most meals. Make a daily budget for your trip and stick with it.
GET PAID TO TAKE A VACATION Some companies look for adventurers who are willing to go on a trip and blog/film/ photograph their adventures. If you’d be up for sharing your travels publicly, why not do an internet search for these opportunities? If you can’t find a company to pay for your trip, you can at least look at LivingSocial or Groupon for deals in the area where you’ll be traveling.
PREVIEW918.COM 27
TA
TULSA ARTS DISTRICT
28 JANUARY 2019
TA TULSA ARTS DISTRICT
Live Music
Check Website for Dates!
PREVIEW918.COM 29
Want to bolster chances of actually staying true to new year’s resolutions, whatever they may be? Then consider heeding these tips. By Lindsay Morris Photos by Sarah Eliza Roberts Model rachel benight
-can the-
Excuses
It’s a new year, and we all have resolutions, goals and dreams we’re hoping to fulfill in 2019. Perhaps many years have gone by where you entered January with good intentions to get in shape or spend oodles more time with your family, but at the end of the year, you find yourself in the same spot you were the year before, wondering what went wrong. Nearly half of us make resolutions, but less than 10 percent actually keep them. No more getting stuck in sameness. It’s time to grow and achieve those resolutions and goals you’re striving for. Not to sound too much like a Tony Robbins’ motivational talk, but it’s time to get your butt in gear. It’s a well-known joke that the gym crowds surge in January, only to thin back out by midFebruary. Sometimes, it almost seems like resolutions are just meant to be broken. Often, what we don’t realize is that the problem isn’t that we aren’t capable of sticking to our resolutions — it’s that we need to do a better job making resolutions that are actionable and achievable. Otherwise, it’s almost like setting yourself up to fall short. So how do you do it? How do you stick to your resolutions? Want to bolster your chances of actually staying true to your new year’s resolutions, whatever they may be? Then consider heeding these tips.
Keep it simple Don’t try to overhaul your entire life. If you do, it will probably result in guilt and failed resolutions. Instead, focus on one or two important goals. Be reasonable and consider your past experiences with resolutions. Did you try to lose 50 pounds and realize that was too lofty of a goal? Shoot for something that is doable.
30 JANUARY 2019
Choose carefully What kind of resolution or goal will bring your life to a greater level of happiness and fulfillment? Sometimes that thing is not something we necessarily enjoy doing, such as giving up smoking, starting an exercise program or cutting back on alcohol. But the best resolutions are ones that will make you happy and healthier in the long run.
Schedule time for the resolutions/goals you want to achieve You’ll never be able to run your first marathon or be more of a family guy if you don’t carve out time in your schedule to do those things. Physically mark out time on your calendar when you are going to do the things that will help you achieve your resolution — whether it’s going to the gym, writing your novel or spending time with family.
Guard the time you’ve set aside Now that you’ve mapped out times to work on those projects or goals, you’ll be amazed how all of a sudden, everyone will need you during that one hour a day you’ve scheduled to exercise. You’ll have to guard that time religiously. Don’t let anything short of a natural disaster keep you from allocating time to achieve your goals.
Break your resolution up into small, achievable goals If you want to run a marathon by April, then you don’t just wake up and run 26.2 miles one morning without training. In the same way, train for your goals. If you’re quitting smoking, make goals such as, “I’m going to go one day without smoking.” Then work your way up to a week, a month, etc.
Find an accountability partner Our goals are more fun when we have someone to work toward them with. Especially when it comes to exercise; if you know that your buddy will be waiting for you at the gym at 5 a.m., you’ll be more motivated to get out of bed when it’s pitch black outside. Be sure to choose someone who will do their best to pull their weight and keep you encouraged and motivated.
Write down your goals People who write down their goals feel a greater sense of accountability and have a much higher chance of accomplishing them. Post your goals on your fridge, write them in dry-erase marker on the bathroom mirror, or write them down in a journal. Journaling can also help you reflect on your progress. Honest reflection can help you to see how you may be sabotaging yourself or to recognize patterns of behavior.
Get social about it This is sort of a nextlevel suggestion. After you’ve already chosen an accountability partner, you could choose to have an extra level of accountability by posting on social media about your resolution or goal. If people know you’re trying to lose 20 pounds, they’ll ask you how your workouts are going. Obviously, this can get a little annoying if you haven’t been diligently working toward your resolution and acquaintances start nagging you.
Work your way up If you want to make something a lifestyle, you need to be reasonable about how you incorporate that practice into your life. When it comes to exercise in particular, if you try to bench press 250 on your first day at the gym, you’ll probably injure yourself. Implement a wise plan when it comes to making your resolution a new part of your life.
Most Popular New Year’s Resolutions Get in shape Lose weight Enjoy life to the fullest Spend less, save more Find a significant other Spend more time with family and friends Get organized Spend less time on social media Learn something new Travel more Break your smartphone addiction Eat at home more Read more books Drink less Stop procrastinating Make new friends Get a new job Stop smoking Control your emotions Learn a new language Start being more creative Become more confident and take some chances Reduce stress Do more good deeds See your doctor more often Focus more on appearance Get more sleep Floss regularly Become more polite Watch less TV Become more self-reliant Let go of grudges Stop being late all the time Face your fears and insecurities
PREVIEW918.COM 31
Tips to Drink Less Are you concerned about your alcohol intake? Maybe you feel that you’re drinking too much or too often. Perhaps it’s a habit you’d like to better control. Whether drinking is a celebratory ritual or serves to ease stress, you may be drinking an amount at which health risks outweigh potential benefits.
• Limit time spent in bars
• Drink water
• Watch sporting events at home
• Keep the wine off the dinner table
• Never drink alone
• Try seltzer
If the amount of alcohol that you have been drinking exceeds recommended guidelines and puts you at risk for developing alcohol-related problems, you may want to try cutting down or moderating your consumption.
• Don’t drink for solace
• Visualize the behavior you desire
If you are currently drinking more than the recommended guidelines, any change that you make, even small changes, can help you reduce the harm that alcohol can cause. The less you drink, the lower your risk of developing problems. It’s called harm reduction. Your goal is to improve your health and your life by reducing the effects of alcohol.
Make it fun Celebrate your accomplishments. If you exercise every day for five days, reward yourself with a treat (whether that’s a smoothie or a cupcake … your pick!). Be sure to share your accomplishments with your accountability partner or someone else who will cheer you on and keep you going.
Stick with what works Once your behavior starts to feel routine, it’s easy to assume you have this in the bag and can let down your guard. But that’s when you become vulnerable to missteps. You may think that because you haven’t smoked in more than two months, you can lift your ban on going out with friends who do, or that you can stop keeping a food log because you’ve got the diet down. But those techniques were crucial to your success up to this point, and taking them away can dissolve your resolve.
Don’t give up At some point, you will likely have a slip-up. So many people use this as an excuse to give up on their goal altogether. If you mess up, forgive yourself, resolve not to let the same thing happen again and move forward. Remember, 2019 is the year you achieve your resolutions as you wisely implement plans for change!
32 JANUARY 2019
• Count your drinks • Don’t have a habitual drink • Replace one habit with a better one • Swap your standbys • Don’t forget to eat • Avoid your triggers
• Keep a drinking diary • Decide why you want to stop drinking • Make a money log • Get your friends on board • Don’t rely solely on willpower
PREVIEW918.COM 33
Before signing up for a gym membership, consider the following tips. BY JOHN TRANCHINA The first thing to consider when choosing a gym is determining what your goals are. Are you starting from scratch and just looking to lose some weight and establish a healthier lifestyle? Are you an athlete trying to add muscle, get stronger and/ or sculpt a more buff bod? Are you in decent shape and just trying to maintain your current level of fitness? The answers to those questions will lead you to different destinations. By starting with the end result in mind, you can focus your search and find the best option that fits your needs, because there are many different variations out there that can make the selection process a bit overwhelming if you
34 JANUARY 2019
haven’t thought out that part of it first. Before committing to joining a gym, though, you should definitely go check it out in person, preferably when you normally would go exercise. That way you can view the space, see how crowded it gets during your usual workout time, get a sense of the other customers, experience the atmosphere and determine if you can see yourself spending all that time there. When visiting a prospective gym, be prepared with a list of things to look for, such as the features you plan to utilize, and questions to ask. “You’re paying a monthly fee to use the facility. How much value are you getting for what you’re paying?” says Chris Bumpers, a local personal trainer who has worked at many different gyms. “Most gyms will actually give you a free trial. Some gyms will have one free day, and some will let you try it free for a week. You could probably bang out an extra month of free workouts just by trying out different local gyms. Obviously,
part of going for the free trial is to listen to their spiel, and then you weigh, ‘What does this one have, what does it not have, and what’s the price associated with it?’” Some things to consider during the selection process:
TRADITIONAL GYM OR SPECIALIZED When determining your fitness goals, are you interested in intense, specialized workouts like CrossFit training or Revved Fitness, where there is more interactive instruction and feedback, or do you want a more traditional gym where you can do your own weightlifting and cardio machines (treadmill, stationary bike, elliptical trainer, StairMaster, etc.)?
CLASSES Guided spinning or yoga classes have specific schedules, so if you are interested in attending them, find out if the gym offers them, if the classes are during times that are convenient for you, and how much extra they cost, if anything.
EQUIPMENT Whether you’re interested in using the cardio options, weight
machines, free weights, or whatever, make sure the gym has a good mix of the equipment that you plan on using and that there are enough of them so you won’t be waiting in a line. “I would want to know how high the dumbbells go,” said Bumpers, who includes a lot of weightlifting in his own workouts. “At my gym, the dumbbells go up to 200 pounds. Some gyms only go up to 60 or 80 pounds sometimes, and for me, that won’t cut it. One of the other things to look for is how many dumbbell stations there are. One of the problems that many gyms have is that everybody’s trying to use dumbbells in the same exact spot and it gets cluttered. I would also look for areas to do free weights. I’d make sure there are squat racks, make sure there is an area to do dead lifts and stuff like that.”
EXTRAS While just about every gym has a number of different cardio options, weight machines that target every part of the body and various free weights, many gyms include extra features that might or might not appeal to you.
for an added fee but not always) to guide and push you, and to help you craft your workout plan, and some of them have better credentials than others. If this is something you are seeking, research this aspect first.
And don’t necessarily dismiss a gym popular among co-workers. Chatting up your boss during a spinning class might improve your office relationship.
GYM HOURS
If you’re someone who needs to be distracted when exercising, you might be interested in seeing if there are TVs that you can watch while on the treadmill, or if there is music playing. See where the TVs are located in relation to the equipment that you’ll be using and if you can link up your earbuds to the sound. While most people bring their own music to listen to, this might be another consideration for you, so keep an eye out for that.
Different gyms and gym membership packages have specific hours when the place is available for use, so that is another consideration. If you will be hitting the gym before work and the place opens too late for you to get a workout in, then obviously, you need to keep looking. Or if you have to pay extra for access during off-peak hours, is it worth it? Plus, if there are additional features at the gym you’re interested in, such as a pool or sauna, be sure to check if they have more limited availability hours. For example, it’s unlikely that a 24-hour gym will also offer child care at 5 a.m. Some gyms have a pool, while others have a basketball court, a racquetball court, even an indoor track for running. A number of gyms have on-site child care, while some have their own juice bar with various healthy drinks or protein shakes. Some even have a cardio movie room, where you run the treadmill or ride the recumbent bike in the dark while a movie plays on a big screen at the front of the room. Does the gym have showers that you might use after a workout? Some of these additional attractions might require a higher level of membership. “For the extra features, the way to view that is, if you are planning on using those things, it’s cool if it’s built into the price, but if you’re not, you might want to find another gym that doesn’t have those things so the price would be lower,” Bumpers said.
WILL YOU WANT THE GUIDANCE AND SUPPORT OF A PERSONAL TRAINER? This can also be an important factor, because some gyms have personal trainers available (usually
SPOT CHECK Keep an eye out for dust or dirty surfaces. If the owners don’t keep the place clean, the exercise equipment could be in disrepair, too.
THE OTHER CUSTOMERS When you visit a gym, discreetly check out the other customers and determine if the atmosphere is one you feel comfortable in. If everyone is really intense and buff and it’s an intimidating, potentially judgmental environment, maybe that’s not the right fit for you. Or if that is what you like and that’s not what you see, then again, maybe you should keep looking. It’s important to feel at ease and to be in a setting that will keep you coming back.
THE SOCIAL SCENE Try to get a sense of the gym’s clientele. If you go often enough, the gym can become a great social outlet, so choose a place frequented by the type of people you might enjoy getting to know. Some gyms cater to the young, single crowd, others to families. That’s why group fitness programs are so successful. You’re there with friends and meet new people.
ARE THERE TVS OR MUSIC FOR DISTRACTIONS
THE GREAT OUTDOORS Hate the thought of working out with a ceiling over your head, but can’t get motivated to go for a solo run? You’re not alone. That’s why outdoor group exercise classes are becoming increasingly popular.
LOCATION Convenience matters. Be realistic about how far you’re willing to drive to the gym. If you’re more likely to exercise right after work, consider finding a gym near your office or workplace. Otherwise, stick closer to home. It’s amazing how much of a burden driving an extra five minutes can feel like over time.
COST Of course, perhaps the biggest consideration when choosing a gym is how much a membership costs. How much do you have to pay up front and how much per month? Are there options to upgrade (or downgrade) your membership when necessary? Are the extra options you like included, or do they require another level of membership? It’s not always about the cheapest options, and most of the time you get what you pay for. Ultimately, though, the best gym membership is the one you’ll use — so if you’re torn
between a budget gym that never really makes you feel comfortable or a pricier (but still affordable) gym that inspires you to keep coming back, then pick the one you’re most likely to stick with. Even a cheap gym membership isn’t worth much if you never use it.
ONLINE INFORMATION As more people strive to achieve healthy lifestyles in addition to rock-hard abs, gyms are taking notice and launching blogs with recipes, weightloss tips and workout plans. Such online perks can add value to a gym membership. Gym hunters should consider whether membership comes with post-workout engagement opportunities.
READ THE FINE PRINT One of the big reasons many people don’t want to sign up for a gym is because they don’t want to sign up for a contract. However, if you read everything and know exactly what you’re signing, a contract isn’t all that bad. Specific items to look for in a contract include: • An out clause, in case you move, lose your job or something else. Often you can get out of a contract without a fee if you move a certain number of miles from the club, but usually any other reason requires an early termination fee to get out of your contract. • Can you freeze your contract if you go out of town or are on vacation? • What happens if the club goes out of business? • Does the membership renew automatically? Always get everything the sales person promises you in writing. Get a copy of the contract and take it home to read before you sign. If they won’t let you do that, that’s a bad sign. Remember, if the salesperson is overly pushy, or you don’t feel comfortable for any reason, walk out.
PREVIEW918.COM 35
Free Wi-Fi Internet Access!
Molly’s Landing Open Since 1984
Steak & Seafood Only 3 1/2 miles from Hard Rock Casino on Highway 66 (Route 66)
918.266.7853
www.mollyslanding.com
36 JANUARY 2019
PREVIEW918.COM 37
Want to get more out of your workouts? Having the right workout buddy can often make all the difference in your results. By Michele Chiappetta
STRENGTH IN NUMBERS If you want to be more active this year, you’re not alone. A lot of people set fitness goals for themselves in January — so many, in fact, that gyms all over the area are running specials right now to get you in the door. The question is, how are you going to stay motivated to pursue those goals when the novelty of new year resolutions wear off ? Enter the fitness buddy. Research shows that people who are looking to get fit have a much better chance of being successful and sticking to their workouts when they have a partner. And let’s get real here: It’s not the snap decision to sign up for a 5K, buy a yoga package, or get a bike that keeps you in
shape. It’s the act of running every day, or taking yoga three times a week, or riding your bike regularly that tones you up. If you want long-term results, you have to stick with your fitness goals consistently over time.
That’s why working out with a buddy is so helpful. That friend gives us added reasons to show up for workouts and keep at it until we see results. Plus, maintaining friendships is a proven way to improve your quality of life as you age. Win-win! Exercise partners provide a powerful combination of support, accountability, motivation and, in some cases, healthy competition. They can play the role of
teammate, co-coach and cheerleader — all while working out. So, if you’re looking to get fit and love life this year, find a fitness buddy. But before you rush out and snag yourself a workout buddy, there are a few things you need to know. You see, not all workout buddies are equal, so you’ve got to be picky. Which makes perfect sense. By the same token, you’re going to be their workout buddy, so be prepared to step up your game and be the best workout buddy you can be. Luckily, everyone can learn to be a better workout partner. Here are some reasons why this helps so much, and ways to maximize your fitness buddy activities.
WHY IT HELPS
You’ll work out harder When you exercise alone, it can be difficult to motivate yourself to work harder than usual. It’s easier to fall into a fitness rut and hit a plateau where you don’t progress much. But when you’re with someone who’s hitting the weights hard, you’re more likely to match their level of effort. Let that competitive drive
38 JANUARY 2019
fuel you to push yourself more, and you’ll see the results as your fitness improves.
You’ll see results quicker After a while, solo exercisers can tend to fall into the same old routine, which can limit your results. A workout pal nips that
tendency in the bud. Your friend is likely to notice when you’re interrupting your routine too often to check your phone. A good workout buddy will not only tell you when you’re going too easy, but also encourage you to try a new exercise, helping you avoid fitness plateaus where you get stuck and don’t improve.
You’ll be less likely to give up We’ve all been there — the days of wanting to sleep in, the nights when you just want to go home and have a beer instead of getting in your workout. It’s much more tempting to slack off when it’s just you. But when you’re meeting a friend to exercise together, it’s easier to feel motivated to show up, because meeting a friend is not just a gym visit — it’s a time to visit and enjoy yourself too.
You’ll have more fun Studies show that people who exercise with friends have more fun than those who don’t. No surprise there, right? While a solitary workout can be nice at times when you’ve had a busy day and want to clear your head, repeated solo workouts can get monotonous. But add a friend to the mix, and you also add conversation, jokes, confessional sessions — all the fun you normally have with your pals, just with exercise included.
You’ll avoid injuries Working out effectively means doing the moves right. Proper form while you perform is essential. When you’re working out alone, you may not notice that you’re not maintaining proper form in lifting weights or running. But a good fitness buddy will see it and be able to point out when you need to adjust your back or move your arms differently. And that’ll help you target muscles properly, without pain afterward.
Keeps your ego in check When people start getting good results from their workouts, a little ego can creep in from time to time. A good workout partner recognizes that you’re proud of your achievements and confident with what you’ve got, and at the same time keeps you grounded by constantly pushing you to do better.
HOW TO RECOGNIZE — AND BE — A GREAT FITNESS BUDDY Show up consistently - and on time
Being a fitness buddy is a commitment. When you fail to show up for a planned workout session, it can kill your friend’s motivation and mess up their plans, making their workout less effective and more frustrating. Don’t be that person! Treat your workout partner with respect. Do all you can to get there every time, on time. And if you absolutely must miss a session due to unforeseen issues, tell your buddy promptly so they’re not wasting time waiting on you.
Set specific goals that work for both of you You’re not there to run a solo marathon, but neither are you there to do less than you’re capable of. Talk with your workout pal and figure out what goals would be mutually beneficial — whether that’s meeting for a set amount of time at the gym, showing up for a running group weekly, or lifting weights at least twice a week. The more specific you make your goals, the easier it is to check your progress in meeting them.
Be willing to push just enough It’s easy to either be a drill sergeant, pushing your workout partner constantly, or a couch potato, not pushing them at all. To be a great
fitness buddy, you’ve got to find balance. Pay attention to your friend as you exercise. If they’re in pain or clearly feeling worn down, remind them to pace themselves. If they’re barely breaking a sweat, encourage them to work a little harder. Remember, your end goal is to help each other.
Learn proper techniques Every style of exercise has its proper way of doing things to help you avoid injuries and get good results. And there are always new exercises you can add to enhance a routine. Don’t leave it all to your buddy to figure this stuff out. Learn what you can about proper form, so you can help your friend exercise more effectively. If you’re working with weights, ask a trainer to show you both how to spot each other. Read up on new exercises and share them with your buddy.
Consider a long-distance fitness buddy You don’t have to be in the same room, same gym, or even the same country to benefit from a workout buddy. If your favorite running friend has moved, stay in touch by phone, email, text, FaceTime, WhatsApp, Sworkit, FitBit, or any other connection tool you like. You can still challenge each other to meet goals and check in regularly. And you can always plan a meetup for a race or other sports activity once a year.
HOW TO BE A FABULOUS FITNESS BUDDY Build your active partnership with thoughtful acts of support like these: BE IN TOUCH. Send reminder texts or emails, prearrange rides to the gym, offer wake-up calls if necessary. BE ON TIME. Always. Push your partner, then reinforce their efforts with praise. Suggest NEW IDEAS AND ROUTINES to keep things interesting and prevent plateaus. REMIND your partner of their goals and ENCOURAGE them when the going gets rough. KEEP TABS on each other through illness, travel and other routine-breakers. It will make it easier to get back on track. TALK ABOUT TOPICS OTHER THAN FITNESS. The more you care about your partner as a person, the stronger your alliance will be. But don’t wallow in negative talk. It’s an energy downer. BE FLEXIBLE. Sitter canceled? Take turns watching the kids so each of you can exercise independently.
PREVIEW918.COM 39
You’ve opened the gifts, and now it’s time to open those post-holiday credit card statements. While the situation can be stressful, there are many ways to recover from last month’s spending frenzy.
Plan ahead
The first tip won’t help much this year, but the biggest way to overcome the holiday debt blues is to avoid it from the beginning. Make 2019 the year that you purchase holiday gifts throughout all 12 months. Include gift spending in your monthly budget. That way, you don’t have to use credit debt in the final two months of the year. However, if you’re in the same boat as millions of other Americans, who loaded up the credit card bills this holiday season, this next step is an absolute must for digging your way out.
Know what you’re up against
By Rob Harmon Everyone loves the thrill of being able to spread a little holiday cheer. The smiles on the kids’ faces make it all worthwhile. Buying something extra special for a loved one during the holidays is all part of the magic. But it comes with a price-tag, doesn’t it? Just like getting back into those favorite jeans after the holidays doesn’t happen by accident, getting financially fit after the recent shopping season takes a serious plan and an even more determined effort to see
40 JANUARY 2019
it through. This year’s holiday debt in America will probably be higher than 2017’s average of $1,024 per consumer, due to the positive outlook many have about where this economy is headed. About 25 percent of consumers say it will take six months or more to pay off their holiday spending. But how successful were you in knocking out all that debt last time? Are you still paying for it? If so, you’re probably wishing you had done something different.
There’s no shortage of good advice out there about tightening your belt and making a plan to pay off those debts. But one big, really important point to factor into your plan is that not all holiday bills are created equal. Some can even damage your credit or financial stability if you don’t get a jump on paying them off now. This year, attack that mountain of debt with all you’ve got by heeding these few simple tips.
If you’ve used more than one charge account, add up everything from every card, so you can know what you’re up against. You can’t beat your opponent if you don’t really know your opponent. Don’t avoid doing this for another day. Get out all your card statements and add it up. Now, look at the interest rates for each card. The ones with the highest rates are the ones that will kill you the most in the long run.
Stop charging
After figuring out how much you owe to the credit card companies, it does you no good to keep using their cards. Stop spending money you don’t have or you’ll never see your debt diminish. For example, if you have seven credit cards, commit to canceling all of them but the one you’ll use in the future for emergencies. Keep the one card, seal it in an envelope marked “emergencies” and put it in your sock drawer. From now on, if you need to spend money on anything, stick to your debit card until you’ve beat down your credit card debt.
Send small payments
Noting the sleeping habits of interest — it never sleeps, adding incrementally every day to every extra dollar on your debt — should affect your repayment decisions. Rather than wait until just before the due date to send your installment, thereby allowing interest to nibble away like termites at your future earnings, send payments when you have the money. Every $25 you pay two weeks early is 14 days of interest charges saved. Over time, that can add up.
Negotiate a lower interest rate
Start with the small fish
Get some debt dismissed
Use your time wisely
Use your refund as a reward
Just do something
Credit card interest rates can be notoriously high, and higher still if you’ve had a late payment. Sometimes creditors are willing to cut you a break if you simply ask. Your card company wants to keep your business, after all, and now is when competitors unleash their most attractive balancetransfer campaigns.
Most of us calculate how much money we can send to the card companies every month based on regular 40-hour work weeks. But there’s another 128 hours a week (or, 512 per month) you could be using to earn extra cash on the side. Even a $10 an hour part-time job a few hours a week could take care of the minimum payment on a card. But what if you were to put in an extra 20 hours a week at a $15 an hour job? That’s about $250 a week after taxes. Do that every week and you can cancel an extra $1,000 of credit card debt in only one month. Moonlighting is the quickest and easiest way to eliminate credit card debt for good.
Paying down credit card debt on multiple cards happens quicker when you pay the minimum balance on all the cards except the one with the smallest balance. Use the bulk of your debt-canceling funds to eliminate the card account with the easiest balance to tackle. When that entire card balance is gone, you’ll never have to pay another dime to that account. Now you can do the same with the card that has the next highest balance. You’ll find that your holiday debt will disappear faster that way.
When used wisely, your tax return can become a powerful tool for getting your financial situation sorted out. Reward yourself by using the refund to get rid of those holiday debts. Who knows, maybe you could eliminate the whole thing. You’re really rewarding yourself by destroying all those holiday debts. Taking your refund and using it to eliminate holiday debt could potentially save you hundreds of dollars, maybe thousands, in interest and all the other insane fees.
This is not as far-fetched as it sounds. Many companies are getting realistic. They’d rather take 25 percent than nothing. You probably don’t want to go down that road alone, however. It is an extreme decision, fraught with lasting perils. And if you’re attempting to score waivers as part of a debt settlement plan, the process can drag on for months. Consolidating debt is a more credit-score-friendly approach.
Maybe working an extra 80 hours a month at a part time job isn’t your thing. Maybe taking that nice big tax refund and sending it all to the credit card companies isn’t too appealing either. Understandable. But, your holiday credit card debt isn’t going to shrink on its own. You’ve got to at least do something to make a dent in it. Maybe start by skipping that $5 piece of pie after dinner. Replace a workweek lunch at a restaurant with a sack lunch five or six times throughout the month. That can save a whole lot over a few months. Just think of something and stick to it. Then see if you can improve on it. Before you know it, you’ll be saying goodbye to that old, ugly holiday debt and hello to a new and better way of spreading holiday cheer in the coming months, debt free.
PREVIEW918.COM 41
HH HOMEGROWN HEROES
Aiming for IMPACT Sheila Jones
Beyond her impressive academic credentials, the thing that enables Sheila Jones to stand out at Street School is her everlasting commitment to rooting for the underdog. BY MICHELE CHIAPPETTA || PHOTOS BY MARC RAINS Often, Tulsa area youth find themselves in situations where they need added support to succeed in school. For these young people, places like Street School — and teachers like Sheila Jones, a 24-year veteran of junior and senior English at the school — are a godsend.
every day,” says Jones. “I wouldn’t want to teach anywhere else. Not everybody can say that they love their job and really mean it.”
An accredited alternative high school with a therapeutic counseling component, Street School has supported Tulsa students since 1973. Nationally recognized as a leader in dropout prevention, Street School designed the model for alternative education in Oklahoma.
As an educator, Jones has impressive accomplishments under her belt. She is Nationally Board Certified, a rigorous credential awarded to just under 3 percent of U.S. teachers. Jones has also received a Youth Services award and been a finalist for Teacher of the Year in Tulsa. She’s a graduate of the Freedom Writers Institute, which promotes transformative ways to educate nontraditional students, and has served as a mentor to other teachers as well.
“Street School has a wonderful staff that puts each student first
But beyond her impressive academic credentials, the
42 JANUARY 2019
thing that enables Jones to stand out at Street School is her everlasting commitment to rooting for the underdog — her passion for promoting tolerance, building relationships, and persistently encouraging her students daily to grow. “The thing I like about Street School is that you can have a personal connection with the kids,” Jones says. “We have small classes, and we’re able to really get to know the kids. It’s more of a family atmosphere than a school.” The emphasis on creating a supportive community in the classroom is a key to Street School’s success. Many of the school’s students are there because they needed a second
chance. They may have faced issues like bullying, family issues, substance abuse, or struggles due to ADHD. Many are talented and gifted, scoring off the charts in standardized tests. Ultimately, says Jones, the students are simply individuals who are trying to make it in life, just like the rest of us. “Our students are just like your average kid,” she says. “Everyone is dealing with their own struggles every day, but they get up every morning, come to school, and they’re successful. Kids come in who have little to no self-esteem, and then we see them blossom over the three- or four-year timeframe, and it’s very rewarding.”
Street School’s graduation rate is high, and Jones has so many positive memories of students who made it through the program. One who comes to mind is a young man who came to Street School after getting in trouble for shoplifting. “He successfully graduated Street School, went on to OSU, and now has a degree in engineering,” says Jones. “Each student who graduates is a success.” Street School allows its teachers flexibility in how they balance traditional studies with oneon-one support and creative teaching techniques. For Jones, this includes covering contemporary young adult novels like The Hate U Give, memoirs on race and class like The Other Wes Moore, a unit on the Tulsa Race Riot, and a unit on the Holocaust. All inform her students’ understanding of the world in unique ways. Her students visit Black Wall Street, Reconciliation Park, the Greenwood Cultural Center, and the Sherwin Miller Museum of Jewish Art, which houses a permanent Holocaust exhibit. “We’re able to open up Tulsa and the surrounding areas to the kids, because many of them don’t otherwise get out much beyond their neighborhoods.” As part of the Holocaust unit, Jones also shows pictures from her recent trip to Poland’s Holocaust sites, which she took during a special educational program sponsored by Yad Vashem and Echoes & Reflections. She was one of just 20 teachers nationwide selected to participate, and The Jewish Federation of Tulsa sponsored her for the trip as well.
“It was a very emotional experience,” she says, “and I just can’t say enough of how blessed I felt to be chosen to experience that.” One thing that the trip brought to light was the individuality of each human being who lost their lives. “It is extremely important to see the people who were murdered during the Holocaust as individuals and not a number,” she says. “Each person deserves to be remembered.” In the classroom, Jones brings that awareness to how she presents the Holocaust. She invites students to consider how they have the power to make a difference right where they live. “It makes them stand up for people,” she notes. “Tolerance is a basic theme for most of the literature we read.” Jones also invites students to keep a diary and share portions of it. “When the students read the diary, they can see that they’re not alone in the struggles they’ve faced. It’s very emotional.” To help support Street School, the Tulsa community can do many things. One way to help is to become a mentor. “Mentors agree to meet with the kids one hour a week. They come in and maybe play pool or go across the street and get ice cream and talk to them. The mentor program is very well received by the kids. They enjoy meeting with their mentors.” The school also has a food pantry for students. There are opportunities to sponsor a class, helping to provide books and other supplies. And of course, donations are always welcome, since 45 percent of the school’s funding comes from private donations.
R E S T A U R A N T
918.743.1800
3109 S Yale
www.CelebrityTulsa.com
A Tulsa favorite for over 50 years! • Steak • Lobster • Seafood • Chicken • Famous “World-Class” Caesar Salad made Tableside PREVIEW918.COM 43
B
B
44 JANUARY 2019
I N T H E B OX YA R D + N OW O P E N AT W H I T T I E R S Q UA R E @ S T E M C E L LT U L S A S T E M C E L LT U L S A . C O M
I M A G E : 9 / 1 / 1 7 N A S A / J P L - C A L T E C H / S W R I / M S S S / G E R A L D E I C H S TÄ D T / S E A N D O R A N
D I S COV E R YO U R WO R L D ( S )
modern mess
B
Boxyard | Tulsa @mymodmess
B
502 EAST 3RD STREET | TULSA, OK, 74120
PREVIEW918.COM 45
B
See our feature on page 92
guilt-free prices you won't even have to wait for it to go on sale free gift with every $50 purchase @beauandarrowusa
B
918.990.2218 www.beauandarrowusa.com
46 JANUARY 2019
TULSABOXYARD.COM
SS SPORTS SCHEDULE OKLAHOMA MEN’S BASKETBALL Home games are played at Lloyd Noble Center (Norman) Jan. 2 | @ Kansas | 8p Jan. 5 | vs. Oklahoma State | 1p Jan. 8 | @ Texas Tech | 8p Jan. 12 | vs TCU | 1p Jan. 16 | vs Kansas State | 6p Jan. 19 | @ Texas | TBA Jan. 23 | @ Oklahoma State | 8p Jan. 26 | vs Vanderbilt | 3p Jan. 28 | vs Baylor | 8p
OKLAHOMA WOMEN’S BASKETBALL Home games are played at Lloyd Noble Center (Norman) Jan. 2 | vs Texas Tech | 6:30p Jan. 5 | @ Kansas State | 7p Jan. 9 | @ Texas | 7p Jan. 13 | vs West Virginia | 2p Jan. 19 | @ Iowa State | Noon Jan. 22 | @ TCU | 8p Jan. 27 | vs Baylor | 2p Jan. 30 | @ Kansas | 7p
TULSA MEN’S BASKETBALL Home games are played at Reynolds Center (Tulsa) Jan. 2 | @ Houston | 7p Jan. 5 | vs USF | 5p Jan. 10 | vs Cincinnati | 6p Jan. 12 | @ SMU | 5p Jan. 16 | vs UConn | 6p Jan. 19 | @ UCF | 11a Jan. 24 | @ Cincinnati | 6p Jan. 27 | vs Houston | 1p Jan. 30 | vs Memphis | 7p
ORAL ROBERTS MEN’S BASKETBALL
Home games are played at Mabee Center (Tulsa) Jan. 3 | vs North Dakota | 7p Jan. 5 | vs Western Illinois | 7p Jan. 10 | @ Purdue Fort Wayne | 6p Jan. 12 | @ South Dakota State | 4:15p Jan. 17 | vs South Dakota | 7p Jan. 20 | @ Denver | 5p Jan. 26 | vs North Dakota State | 7p Jan. 31 | vs South Dakota State | 7p
TULSA OILERS
Home games are played at BOK Center (Tulsa) Jan. 4 | vs Allen | 7:05p Jan. 5 | vs Idaho | 7:05p Jan. 6 | vs Idaho | 4:05p Jan. 11 | @ Rapid City | 8:05p Jan. 12 | @ Rapid City | 8:05p Jan. 16 | @ Utah | 8:05p Jan. 18 | @ Utah | 8:05p Jan. 19 | @ Utah | 8:05p Jan. 25 | vs Allen | 7:05p Jan. 26 | vs Allen | 7:05p Jan. 27 | vs Allen | 4:05p Jan. 29 | vs Utah | 7:05p Jan. 30 | vs Utah | 7:05p
ALL TIMES CENTRAL // GAME DATES/ TIMES SUBJECT TO CHANGE
OKLAHOMA STATE MEN’S BASKETBALL Home games are played at Gallagher-Iba Arena (Stillwater) Jan. 2 | vs Iowa State | 8p Jan. 5 | @ Oklahoma | 1p Jan. 8 | vs Texas | 6p Jan. 12 | @ West Virginia | 11a Jan. 14 | vs Baylor | 8p Jan. 19 | @ Iowa State | 5p Jan. 23 | vs Oklahoma | 8p Jan. 26 | vs South Carolina | 1p
OKLAHOMA STATE WOMEN’S BASKETBALL
Home games are played at Gallagher-Iba Arena (Stillwater) Jan. 2 | @ Texas | 7p Jan. 6 | vs TCU | 1p Jan. 9 | @ West Virginia | 6p Jan. 12 | vs Texas Tech | 3p Jan. 19 | @ Kansas | Noon Jan. 23 | @ Kansas State | 7p Jan. 26 | vs Iowa State | 5p Jan. 30 | vs Baylor | 7p
TULSA WOMEN’S BASKETBALL Home games are played at Reynolds Center (Tulsa) Jan. 4 | vs Wichita State | 7p Jan. 9 | vs Memphis | 7p Jan. 12 | @ ECU | 4p Jan. 16 | @ UCF | 6p Jan. 19 | vs Cincinnati | 2p Jan. 26 | @ Houston | 2p Jan. 29 | vs Temple | 7p
ORAL ROBERTS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL Home games are played at Mabee Center (Tulsa) Jan. 2 | vs North Dakota | 7p Jan. 5 | vs Western Illinois | 2p Jan. 9 | @ Purdue Fort Wayne | 6p Jan. 12 | @ South Dakota State | 2p Jan. 18 | vs South Dakota | 7p Jan. 20 | @ Denver | 2p Jan. 26 | vs North Dakota State | 2p Jan. 30 | vs Purdue Fort Wayne | 7p
OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER
Home games played at Chesapeake Energy Arena (Oklahoma City) Jan. 2 | @ Los Angeles Lakers | 9:30p Jan. 4 | @ Portland Trailblazers | 9:30p Jan. 6 | vs Washington Wizards | 6p Jan. 8 | vs Minnesota Timberwolves | 7p Jan. 10 | @ San Antonio Spurs | 8:30p Jan. 12 | vs San Antonio Spurs | 7p Jan. 15 | @ Atlanta Hawks | 6:30p Jan. 17 | vs Los Angeles Lakers | 8:30p Jan. 19 | @ Philadelphia 76ers | 2:30p Jan. 21 | @ New York Knicks | 11:30a Jan. 22 | vs Portland Trailblazers | 7p Jan. 24 | vs New Orleans Pelicans | 7p Jan. 27 | vs Milwaukee Bucks | 5p Jan. 29 | @ Orlando Magic | 6p
PREVIEW918.COM 47
48 JANUARY 2019
PREV EW
LANSING
75
5TH 7TH
ORT
IN
NKF
6TH
T
I
33
N
TH
8
PEORIA
MAI
8TH
3
TH
9
TH
7
23
NS
10
TH
11
12TH
TH
RI V
13TH
75
13TH
AS
14
64
51
TH
E
15
R 1
31
11TH
1H
TCC
64
KA
14
4TH
FRA
ELG
NAT
TON
CIN
ROI
CIN
BOS
R
6
LDE
A
TH
Courthouse
15
3RD
12
75 AR
TH
5
Central Library
NE
OSU Medical Center
H
YEN
B
4T
BOU
Cox Business Center
D
CHE
Civic BOKCenter
R 17 3
4
O
BOK Center
HRIE GUT N STO HOU
C
2
14
1
DET
ND
6
Jazz Hall of Fame
Performing Arts Center
DEC
1
E B L UM E DO
2ND
KENOSHA
VER City Hall
ST
R
13
10
N
12
20
OOD ENW GRE
Brady Theater
MAI
DEN OOD ELW
244
Woody AR Guthrie Center
244
ONEOK Field
CHE
DY
51
D
N ERO CAM Guthrie Green DY BRA
OOD
11
BRA
64
19
5
ENW
16
Greenwood Cultural Center
GRE
Cain’s Ballroom
412
E
TULSA LOCATOR TL
DOWNTOWN TULSA
2
3
30
TH
2 4
32
51
CHERRY 5
ENTERTAINMENT
DINING
SHOPPING
THE BOXYARD
BOK Center | 2C-6 Tulsa Performing Arts | 3D-15 Tulsa Drillers | 3E-15 Tulsa Roughnecks | 3E-15
Albert G’s Bar & Q | 3D-13 Baxter’s Interurban Grill | B1-23 Caz’s Chowhouse | 2D-10 Chimi’s | 5A-2 Jason’s Deli | 5A-30 Juniper | 3D-1 Mexicali | 2D-11 MixCo | 2C-17 PRHYME | 2D-12 Sabores | 3D-33 Sisserou’s | 2D-20 Soul City | 5B-31 SMOKE. | 5A-32 Tavolo | 3C-3 Ti Amo | 2C-4
Beau & Arrow | 3D-33 Boomtown Tees | 3D-14 Garden Deva’s | 5D-37 Ida Red | 3D-33 Modern Mess | 3D-33 Okie Dokie | 3D-33 STEMcell | 3D-33 Sweet Boutique | 3D-33 The Market Store | 3D-33 The Steel Horse | 3D-33
Beau & Arrow | 3D-33 Blank Med Spa | 3D-33 Blue Sky Bank | 3D-33 Okie Dokie | 3D-33 Riley’s Wine & Spirits | 3D-33 Rose Rock Microcreamery | 3D-33 STEMcell Science Shop | 3D-33 Sabores | 3D-33 Sweet Boutique | 3D-33 The Steel Horse | 3D-33 Tonsorial | 3D-33
BARS Caz’s Pub | 2D-16 Club Majestic 2D-19 MixCo | 2C-17
PREVIEW918.COM 49
TL TULSA LOCATOR TULSA AND SURROUNDING AREAS
G
PREV EW
SPERRY
40
7
86TH N
OWAS
76TH N
56TH N
F
75
Crawford Park
35
44
LEWIS
Turkey Mountain Park
2
97
51
61ST
38
2
Oklahoma Aquarium
42
101ST
34 70 4
14
111
TH
5
46
81ST
64
18
91ST
7
33
40
71
9
20
BIXBY 71 6
129TH E.
29
MEMORIAL
121ST
44 65
MEMORIAL
3
30
SHERIDAN
50 JANUARY 2019
2
64
GARNETT
Oral Roberts Univ. Mabee Ct. 58
YALE
1
54
62
12
49 23
HARVARD
SAPULPA
LaFortune 80 Park
97
83
32
66
56
25
JENKS
41ST
St. Francis Hospital
41 61 24 59
A
97 Hicks Park
31
5
21
Jones Airport
31ST
22
68
169
MINGO
B
36
PEORIA
75
23
91Whiteside Park
3
39
44
97 51
MIDTOWN
RIVERSIDE
ARKANSAS RIVER
94
UNION
244
93 21ST
Expo Square
29
Philbrook Museum of Art7
6
129TH E.
Tulsa State Fairgrounds
Woodward Park St. John Med. Ctr.
Chandler Park
11TH
GARNETT
27
48 MINGO
Of 21 1Univ. Tulsa
2
C
APACHE
PINE
MEMORIAL
30
50
169
PINE
SHERIDAN
DOWNTOWN BOK Ctr.
17 YALE
OSU Tulsa
75
HARVARD
28
11
SAND SPRINGS
11
LEWIS
D
36TH N
Tulsa Air & Space Museum
26TH N / APACHE
UTICA
412
GILCREASE EXPY
PEORIA
GILCREASE MUSEUM
51
Tulsa Zoo
36TH N MARTIN LUTHER KING
KWY ALE P TISD
Gilcrease Museum
46TH N MINGO
19 Tulsa Botanic Garden
E
Mohawk Park Lake Yahola
TULSA LOCATOR TL 96TH N PRESENTED BY:
SSO
SHOPPING
Redbud Valley Nature Preserve
CATOOSA 10
412
244
DINING
1
53 COUNTY LINE / 193RD E.
177TH E.
209TH E.
73
66
161ST E.
145TH E.
1ST
1
52
BROKEN ARROW 40
ST
ASPEN
23
COUNTY LINE
7
63 LYNN LANE
MAIN ELM
13
360 Home | D4-21 Antique Restoration | D4-11 Children’s Orchard | A5-18 Edible Arrangements | 4C-7, 5A-7, 6G-7 I-44 Antique Mall | 4C-3 Ida Red | 4C-50 Jules Boutique | 5A-14 Miss McGillicutty’s Antiques | 4A-54 Tulsa Stained Glass | 5C-56 Ziegler Art & Frame | 4D-17
Albert G’s Bar & Q | 4C-91 Amazing Thai Cuisine | 7B-63 Bistro At Seville | 5A-34 Brownie’s Burgers | 4D-29, 5B-29 Cafe Olé | 4C-35 Celebrity Restaurant | 5C-68 Chimi’s | 5B-2, 4C-2, 4D-2 Dave and Buster’s | 6B-44 El Chico | 6D-93 Elmer’s BBQ | 4C-39 Fat Daddy’s Pub and Grille | 5B-64 Flo’s Burger Diner | 4D-1, 8D-1 Fuji | 5B-20 George’s Pub | 4A-61 Goodcents Deli Fresh Subs | 5A-9 Hooters | 5B-49 In The Raw | 4C-23, 5B-23, 7B-23 Incredible Pizza | 5B-46 Jason’s Deli | 4D-30, 5B-30 Kitch | 4A -42 Lanna Thai | 5B-71 Los Cabos | 6G-40, 4A-40, 7B-40 Maryn’s Taphouse and Raw Bar | 4A-58 Molly’s Landing | 8E-52
Mondo’s Ristorante Italiano | 4C-94 Napa Flats | 4A-25 ol’ Vine | 4A-5 Ricardos | 5C-31 Rozay’s Wingz |5C-22 Rustic Gate | A4-32 Shiloh’s | 7B-73 SMOKE. | 4D-27 Tandoori Guys | B7-13 Ti Amo |5B-80 The Tropical |5C-62 Village Inn | B5-97, C5-97, C4-97 Waterfront Grill | 4A-70 Yutaka Grill Sushi & Buffet | 5C-12
ENTERTAINMENT Circle Cinema | 4D-28 Dave and Buster’s | 6B-44 Got Wood | A4-24 Incredible Pizza | 5B-46 Loony Bin Comedy Club | 5B-38
CASINO Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa | D7-10 Osage Casino | E3-19 River Spirit Casino Resort | 4B-83
EVERYTHING ELSE Blue Cottage | 4A-59 GrassRoots Health Care | 5A-33 Indigo Spa & Salon | 4C-36 Shears | 4A-41
8
PREVIEW918.COM 51
SC SPORTS CENTRAL
Shawn Jones
G N I L T WRES STORY I H H T I W
CARVE OUT TINUES TO N O C S E N O S, SHAWN J ARROW. ERNIE JONE AT BROKEN H S C IP A H O S C N Y R IO P LEGENDA LING CHAM THE SON OF IPLE GRAPP LT U M H IT UCCESS W ARC RAINS HIS OWN S PHOTOS BY M // A IN H C N BY JOHN TRA for him there during that time, Wrestling has always been about family for Shawn Jones, and that is still the case as he begins his 14th season as the head coach at high school powerhouse Broken Arrow. Growing up in a house where his father, Ernie Jones, was already an established, well-respected high school coach, and with his brothers, Rodney and Biff, also wrestling, Jones has been surrounded by the sport for as long as he can remember. During Ernie’s tenure at Booker T. Washington from 1973-80, he won four state championships, coached such outstanding wrestlers as future NCAA champion and 1988 Olympic gold medalist Kenny
52 JANUARY 2019
Monday and NCAA All-American Thomas Landrum, both of whom made significant impressions on the young Jones brothers.
“As young kids growing up, first, him being at Booker T. Washington, coaching the likes of Kenny Monday, Rodney Hooks, Thomas Landrum — we grew up imitating those guys in our front living room,” Shawn Jones says of his dad. “He’d bring their singlets home and wash them, so we were the first ones to be able to get into them. Our entire life has been spent around this sport. He was a great dad. As far as having kids participate or compete in the sport, he was very calm.” Ernie went on to coach at Daniel Webster High School from 1981-94, with each of his sons wrestling
even winning back-to-back state championships in 1993 and ’94. He then went on to coach at Cascia Hall, leading the Commandos to two state runners-up finishes and continues to teach new generations of wrestlers there. Meanwhile, after his own wrestling days were finished, Shawn began his coaching career as an assistant at Choctaw, then took over as head coach at Sapulpa before moving on to Broken Arrow in 2006. While his coaching style has inevitably been significantly influenced by his dad, he also has developed his own brand over the years. “More than anything, he’s 75 years old and he’s a super-passionate
man. He gets after it, and he gives Cascia Hall everything he’s got,” Shawn says of Ernie. “And I think all three of us [brothers], as far as the passion for the sport, our core is all the same and aligns with what we were taught growing up. But I’m 25 years into this, and I’d like to think that we’ve grown. We had a good base, and we’ve got to sprout from there. “When we started coaching, even though we may have been in our first couple of years, I truly felt we had years of experience on people we were coaching against, simply because we had been around that guy for that time period.” The brothers do get a chance to team up with their father during the summer at their own wrestling camp that attracts kids from all ages and skill levels looking to improve during the offseason.
“It’s the Ernie Jones Wrestling Camp in the summer. Rodney’s kind of taken it over and runs it. It’s been going on about 18 years now, and it’s gotten bigger and better,” Shawn says. “It’s at Cascia Hall, and it’s basically called the J4 Wrestling Camp now. It’s become a Tulsa staple for young wrestlers in the area.” The family connection still persists for the Jones brothers, too, because both Rodney and Biff serve as Shawn’s assistant coaches at Broken Arrow. Rodney joined the staff when Shawn was first hired, and Biff, after following Shawn as Sapulpa’s head coach from 2006-13, arrived after that. And all three of them teach in the BA history department — Shawn world history, Rodney and Biff, U.S. history. “This is mine and Rodney’s 14th year here together, but Biff joined us six years ago, and one of the first, common questions that we’re asked is, ‘I know how brothers are; are you guys going to be able to get along?’ And six years later, the answer is yes,” Shawn says. “We’re all on the same page and each of us have a responsibility, and it’s business as usual. “I think it’s unique. You can’t go across the state and find three brothers who are allowed to all teach in the same high school and coach the same wrestling team. I applaud Broken Arrow for having the ability to pull this off. I think it would be even cooler if we could get my dad over here. I think he’s probably got another 20 years in him the way he’s going right now, but it would be nice for all four of us
to be here together, take these trips and enjoy the competitions together. Right now, it’s pretty perfect. Not only are they coaches, they’re my brothers and I love them.” As a new wrestling season gets underway, Shawn has high expectations for his squad in 2019. After winning three consecutive Class 6A state championships from 2010-12 under Jones’ guidance, Broken Arrow won it all again in 2015 and has finished as state runners-up in each of the last three years. The Tigers also won three dual state titles during the same time frame. Jones credits a lot of the program’s ongoing success, and its ability to plug new elite-level wrestlers into roles vacated by graduating state placers and champions, to the foundation that begins in junior high. “We’re the biggest school in the state, and the program recruits itself,” Jones says. “I think we’re solid, starting at the junior high level. Coach Branson Phillips is our junior high coach; he was a multi-time state champion here. He started helping with the high school my first few years, and he made the decision that he’d like to do the junior high, and he does a great job. He gives them a great base and then we just keep it rolling when they get to the high school level. We understand wrestling and success breeds success. It’s kind of the next man up. I know that’s kind of cliché, but we do have kids who graduate. We’re fortunate enough to be able to fill those spots, and we’ve just been able to do it at a pretty good level.”
PREVIEW918.COM 53
GC GREEN COUNTRY SCENE
the 4-h
factor
FROM IN-SCHOOL ENRICHMENT AND OUT-OF-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES, CLUBS TO CAMPS, 4-H PROGRAMS ARE INSPIRING CHILDREN TO HAVE FUN, LEARN, GROW, AND DO MORE. BY JENNIFER ZEHNDER It’s early morning and the Burton sisters — Katie, Kenzie, Grace and Brianna — of Stilwell, Okla., are busy with morning chores. A barn full of dairy goats, assorted cattle, meat chickens and a collection of colorful rabbits wait their respective turn as the foursome milk, feed, water, and take care of their charges. Just west of town, their Patterson cousins — Hagen, Jonah and Samuel — work through their livestock duties before they, too, head to school. That evening, after homework and chores, the children gather at their local 4-H Club where they catch up with friends, review projects with 4-H leaders and volunteers, and talk about upcoming competitions from speech and demonstrations to the food showdown and livestock skillathon.
54 JANUARY 2019
It makes for a busy life, says Jennifer Patterson, the boys’ mother, but a 4-H life is one that matters. “4-H teaches vital life skills to our youth which builds a solid foundation for their futures. It opens doors to many opportunities that might not have been available if not actively involved in 4-H,” she explains. “It takes a youth’s specific likes and interests and helps them set goals for a career doing what they love to do. It also demonstrates the importance of teamwork and community involvement.” Patterson and her sister-in-law, Yalonda Burton, the girls’ mother, know a little about doing what you love. Both proud 4-H alumnae, Patterson serves as the
Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension Educator (AG/4-H) for Adair County, whereas Burton is a large and small animal veterinarian. More than a century ago, 4-H was born from the idea of practical, “handson” learning to connect public school education to rural life. Identified by its green cloverleaf emblem which features a white H on each leaf, the 4-H name represents the nonprofit’s four development areas — head, heart, hands and health. Today, the nation’s largest youth development organization continues its “learn-by-doing” philosophy, growing confident young people who are empowered for life today and their future careers tomorrow.
GREEN COUNTRY SCENE GC
And while livestock and agriculture projects are still popular, current 4-H programming also includes a wide array of opportunities in science technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), healthy living and civic engagement. “4-H has grown and evolved with our changing world,” shares Burton. “It’s added new workshops and activities, as well as contests to involve more of today’s youth who all have different lifestyles and capabilities. Anyone from any demographic can be involved in 4-H and find a niche that works for them.” A volunteer-led organization associated with the United States Department of
Agriculture, 4-H is open to youth ages 8-18 through local 4-H clubs, camps and school programs. 4-H Cloverbud programs are geared toward ages 5-7. Programs are delivered through a community of 3,500 4-H professionals and 500,000 adult and youth volunteers working in cooperation with more than 100 public institutions and the cooperative extension system. Youth decide which projects they want to learn more about and 4-H community members provide them with mentoring and career readiness support. Hands-on experiences teach subject matter and life skills, including cooperation, leadership and decision-making — all which can be applied throughout their lives.
“People often think 4-H is just about grade school children and livestock — it’s not. There is so much more,” asserts Patterson. “Youth can stay active members in 4-H throughout their entire high school career. There are endless opportunities — scholarships, district/state/international trips and competitions to name a few. Our family plans on taking full advantage of those. “I love 4-H because it involves the whole family. There is something for all to do together. You never stop learning. Our 4-H family is one we will cherish for a lifetime.” For more information about 4-H, programs or to find your local club, visit 4-h.org.
PREVIEW918.COM 55
GC GREEN COUNTRY SCENE
4-H BY THE NUMBERS
4-H INVOLVEMENT: Leadership, citizenship, livestock, shooting sports, officer team, speech, demonstration, image dress, livestock skillathons, livestock quiz bowls
Hagen Patterson
16
4-H INVOLVEMENT: Livestock, speech, image dress, workshop presentation, volunteer, officer team, food showdown, conferences
MEMBERSHIP IS COMPRISED OF NEARLY 6M PARTICIPANTS: 1.8M urban 1.6M suburban 2.6M rural 36 percent minority youth 25M alumni and growing
4-H KUDOS: 4-H is something I would recommend to others. It helps teach valuable life skills, as well as a little fun and knowledge along the way.
Katie Burton
15
ANNUAL YOUTH PARTICIPATION INCLUDES:
4-H CHALLENGE: One challenging moment I had in my 4-H career was last summer when my show steer died before I got to show him. What I learned from that was no matter what happens, you have to keep going. 4-H INVOLVEMENT: Livestock, speech, image dress, workshop presentation, volunteer, officer team, food showdown, conferences
5.6M in STEM projects 2.7M in healthy living projects 3.1M in agriculture projects 2017 4-H Annual Report
Kenzie Burton
15
4-H REFLECTION: What I appreciate most about my 4-H involvement is all of the 4-H leaders and volunteers. Without these people, the 4-H organization would not be thriving as much as it is. We should give them the appreciation they deserve.
4-H INVOLVEMENT: Livestock, speech, image dress, volunteer, officer team, food showdown, conferences 4-H IN THREE WORDS: amazing, life-changing, opportunity
Grace Burton
13
1
Do not wait until the week due for the yearly record books. With our advanced technology, books can be updated easily on a computer.
4-H INVOLVEMENT: Leadership, citizenship, livestock, shooting sports, officer team, speech, demonstration, image dress, livestock skillathons, livestock quiz bowls
2
Time management is key. Pick a few project areas to focus on. It can be overwhelming if you try to do everything at once.
Jonah Patterson
13
4-H FAVORITE: My favorite part of 4-H is all the shows and competitions we get to participate in.
3
Communicate. If you are unsure of how something is managed just ask. That is what your extension agents, 4-H leaders/volunteers and club members are for. If they don’t know the answer, they will help you find it.
4-H INVOLVEMENT: Livestock, speech, image dress, volunteer, dress review, food showdown
4
Get involved. Want to know exactly what your child is doing? Become a certified 4-H leader. 4-H never has enough volunteers. This way you can mold your club into what works for you and your youth.
Brianna Burton
11
5
Enjoy the time with your children. Every experience is a life lesson. Your child is not going to win everything. Sometimes parents get so focused on winning that they forget children are supposed to have fun, too. Jennifer Patterson, OSU cooperative extension educator (AG/4-H) for Adair County
56 JANUARY 2019
4-H PROUD MOMENT: I was very excited when I won grand with my dairy speech. I learned that if you try harder, you succeed.
4-H INVOLVEMENT: Leadership, citizenship, livestock, shooting sports, officer team, speech, demonstration, image dress, livestock skillathons, livestock quiz bowls
Samuel Patterson 11
4-H FAVORITE: Animals are my favorite activity because they help me learn responsibility.
SS STYLE + SHOPPING
AT GEARHEAD OUTFITTERS YOU’LL FIND AMAZING RACKS OF SUPERIOR BRAND WEAR, CUTTING-EDGE GEAR, AND A STAFF OF EXPERTS WHO CAN HELP YOU FIGURE OUT EXACTLY WHAT YOU NEED TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF AN ACTIVE LIFESTYLE. BY MICHELE CHIAPPETTA & PHOTOS BY SARAH ELIZA ROBERTS Love the outdoors? If so, you’re not alone. According to the Outdoor Industry Association, half of all Americans participate in outdoor activities like camping, trail running or hiking, adding up to nearly 11 billion outdoor events a year. In other words, a vast number of Americans are dedicated to living an active lifestyle outdoors. If you’re among those fans of outdoor activities, then you will
58 JANUARY 2019
definitely want to visit Gearhead Outfitters, an exceptional outdoor gear and clothing shop at Tulsa’s Utica Square. Owner Ted Herget launched the original Gearhead shop as a bike shop in Jonesboro, Ark., years ago before expanding into more general outdoor activities gear. As an outdoor enthusiast himself, Herget is passionate about spreading the message that staying active is a great
way to stay healthy and happy throughout your lifetime. “If you don’t use it, you lose it,” says Herget. “You’ve got to move. You’ve got to be active. It makes you feel better. I think it’s the best therapy. The truth is, everybody needs to be outside.” Green Country offers many opportunities for fun — making Tulsa an ideal choice for Gearhead Outfitters to be.
“Tulsa’s great. You’ve all got a cool place, like what you’ve done with The Gathering Place,” Herget says. “To see the investments Tulsa has made in what benefits people’s mental and physical health, it’s incredible. Tulsa is a great place to be proud of.” When you walk into Gearhead Outfitters, you’ll immediately notice things that make your heart skip a beat — amazing racks of superior brand wear,
STYLE + SHOPPING SS
cyclists, backpackers, trail bikers, and more. They have a lot of combined know-how to help get you into exactly what you need for your outdoor activities. You can expect to see topperforming brands like Patagonia, Balega, Birkenstock, Hoka, Filson, Barbour, Yeti, Prana, Danner, Brooks, and Kühl to help you with running, hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities. You’ll also find intriguing specialty accessories like silicone wedding rings, field watches, leather bracelets, luggage, backpacks, lights, and more. “We sell the best products, no question,” says Herget. “Whether you’re hanging out at the bar or going to Kilimanjaro, you’re covered. We tailor everything to the needs of the customer.” The staff will help you mix and match to meet your needs, or even order items especially for you. “What we carry is fashionable, but it’s also functional, things you can wear and be comfortable in and look good,” says Spencer. “They’re warm. You can travel well in a lot of this stuff. They’re wrinkle resistant, quick-drying, odor resistant. They’re light; they don’t take up a lot of space. We have items you can wear around town, as well as technical gear that you might take on a camping trip or hiking.”
GEARHEAD OUTFITTERS 1948 Utica Square | Tulsa 918-878-9966 gearheadoutfitters.com
R
Like everyone who works at Gearhead, Spencer is active. He has hiked the Appalachian Trail and across Spain, for starters. Others on staff are river guides, mountain guides, runners,
All in all, says Herget, Gearhead Outfitters aims to build strong connections with its customers, offering Main Street customer service and top-notch products. “We want to be a gateway spot where people can come in and be comfortable,” Herget says. “We’re not elitist. We love questions. Our people are there to serve customers to help people be comfortable and get outside.”
“Customers have said the store is like Cheers,” says Herget, referring to the television show about a bar where everybody knows
TO
“Our goal is to create an awesome environment and provide exceptional service backed by deep expertise, and to get people to live active, healthy lifestyles,” says Spencer.
In addition to carrying superior products, Gearhead Outfitters also believes in building relationships that go beyond the usual retail experience — which is why you’ll enter to find customers happily sharing their latest news with staff, and a friendly atmosphere that feels a bit like a reunion at times.
“Being a new store, we have a lot of work to do to get involved in the Tulsa community,” he adds. “For our grand opening, we had a pint night and donated 100 percent of the proceeds to Healing Waters, which helps vets that have PTSD cope with it through fly fishing. We did the Tulsa Raft Race as a team. We did a set up at the Tulsa Police Foundation’s Back the Blue 5K Run.”
CA
“We do that with a really unique product selection that you can’t find anywhere else — or at least not all in one location. We try to bring it all in one place for our customers and try to go above and beyond in any way we can.”
Gearhead Outfitters is also dedicated to being active in the Tulsa community. “We like to get involved in the communities we’re located in,” says Spencer. “We do a lot of community engagement events, work with nonprofits, and stuff like that.”
LO
cutting-edge gear, and a staff of experts who can help you figure out exactly what you need. You may even meet Kona, the happy puppy owned by the store’s senior manager, Jackson Spencer, and his girlfriend, Lindsey Mills.
your name. Gearhead Outfitters definitely has that warm, comfortable, friendly feel. “We want to learn everybody’s name. The better we know you and understand you, the better we can serve you. We’re just trying to take care of people the best we can.”
Monday-Saturday: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday: Noon-6 p.m.
PREVIEW918.COM 59
HF HEALTH + FITNESS
STUDIONE INVITES PEOPLE FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE WITH A GOAL TO BUILD A COMMUNITY THAT IS UPLIFTING, POSITIVE, AND EMPOWERING TO THOSE LOOKING TO BETTER THEIR MINDS AND BODY THROUGH YOGA AND FITNESS. BY LINDSEY MILLS /// PHOTOS BY SARAH ELIZA ROBERTS
One place that has the space to exercise and the guidance for doing it properly. One community that offers support for strengthening mind and body. One goal to provide more than a gym, but to build a home and a family in order to help each other get stronger. This was the dream of two women who had been let down by several experiences with gyms that weren’t much more than a space to borrow equipment. Teresa Moyer and Jessica Sprenkel envisioned a place that would offer yoga and fitness classes, but more importantly, it would be welcoming to all. Their studio
60 JANUARY 2019
would be inviting to people from all walks of life and their most important goal would be to build a community that is uplifting, positive, and empowering. Sprenkel’s passion for helping others achieve their fitness began when she trained for and ran her first marathon in 2008. A gym in Memphis, Tenn., gave her the tools she needed to make that race possible: a support system. “I had a coach and a gym that I loved,” she says. “I went from doing something I never thought was possible to being able to do it, having a good time, and not getting hurt. I wanted to give that to other people.”
Sprenkel earned her personal trainer certification before going on to get her master’s in sports science and nutrition. It was when she ran the Route 66 Marathon that she started to think about moving to T-Town. Fast forward a few months, after Tulsa had worked its charm on her, Sprenkel moved and began working for Foolish Things Coffee Company organizing events. Her boss suggested hosting a yoga class on the patio and introduced her to Moyer. Sprenkel met with Moyer one morning to talk about the idea of a donation-based yoga class. Their friendship was born
over coffee and a mutual love for fitness. Before Moyer met Sprenkel, she was teaching yoga to athletes at the University of Tulsa. Moyer had been fully invested in the world of athletics that her children
HEALTH + FITNESS HF activities so that you can do what’s best for your own body. Aside from regular classes MondaySaturday, the duo takes turns teaching a donation yoga class at Fuel 66 Sunday at 10 a.m. This “Beer Yoga” is the perfect opportunity to try out a class and offer a donation for the experience rather than paying for a membership you may not be ready to commit to. It’s also a great chance to sit outside and have a drink while making new friends. Friendship is really what StudiOne is trying to build with each person who walks through their door. “There’s a lot of great places to go get a workout, but there’s something different about having a place that you feel is like a home away from home where you can be supported no matter what you’re going through,” Moyer says. After the 12-week fit camp, they often host a celebratory party at her home.
R
Combining these two fields was very important to the
525 S. Main St., Ste. 101 | Tulsa 918-697-4575 studionetulsa.com
TO
Despite being fully qualified through her training at an
The studio takes pride in nurturing the relationship between running and yoga in order to help you find a balance between work and recovery. The ladies are happy to tailor workouts to your specific needs and always offer alternatives to stretches and
STUDIONE YOGA AND FITNESS
CA
were a part of growing up. She remembers how important sports were to her children because of the community and friendships built.
Sprenkel started attending Moyer’s yoga classes after going for a run and noticed how much it helped her running and overall fitness. The pair started grabbing brunch after class, and soon the dream for a studio that offered both of their areas of expertise, yoga and running, was blooming in their minds.
In the spring of 2016 the studio opened its doors to the public and has been growing ever since. They offer several classes a day so that you can work around a busy schedule. Some days are built to work on strength, others for cardio. Some days you may do yoga while others you might go for a run.
Sprenkel says that the community they strive to build is exactly what she was so grateful to find when Moyer started teaching yoga at Foolish Things. “We created StudiOne so that people would have a place to come and feel supported and celebrated; not just in their yoga and fitness accomplishments, but in life,” Sprenkel says.
LO
Ashram in Florida, Moyer couldn’t land a job working for a studio. Instead, with her yoga certification, she taught classes to a growing number of sports teams and worked to strengthen her own body through her practices.
women because they wanted to offer a space that would allow people to explore different kinds of fitness; strength and aerobic, mind and body, power and endurance. At the heart of their idea, still, was to provide a place that was welcoming and encouraging to all.
Monday: 5:15 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Tuesday: 5:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Wednesday: 5:15 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Thursday: 5:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Friday: 5:15 a.m.-1:15 p.m. Saturday: 7-10 a.m. Sunday: Closed
PREVIEW918.COM 61
LP LAUNCH PAD
Finding a
Sweet Spot Work-life balance. It’s a phrase so often uttered, your eyes probably glaze over when you read it. But if you’re a smallbusiness owner, solopreneur, side hustler or freelancer, it can be singularly hard to stay balanced. It is all too easy to sit at your desk all day (guilty as charged!), work on weekends (which is exactly what I’m doing as I write this), or eat fast-food coneys on the go (not guilty — but I get the temptation). Habits like that are convenient and easy to slip into. But the cost is serious. In a word: burnout. Burnout is a common problem among business owners, says Martina Aumua, a locallybased lifestyle and passion coach. “My clients are high achievers who are suffering
62 JANUARY 2019
burnout,” she says. The common denominator? Her clients haven’t been taking care of themselves, allowing things to get to the point where they are worn down in body and mind. While there is a movement to “unplug” and “disconnect” in order to create a more definitive line, it feels as if we are on a cultural treadmill that encourages us to accept as fact the all-stress-all-the-time lifestyle. It is as if seeking and living a balanced life is the impossible dream. Many people are accepting the out-of-balance craziness as the new normal and even are rewarded for it. The solution, of course, starts with you. “You are your business,” says Aumua. If you don’t take care of
IS A WORK-LIFE BALANCE POSSIBLE? YES, BUT IT MEANS WE HAVE TO WORK AT CREATING AND PRESERVING A SPACE IN OUR LIVES FOR THE THINGS THAT MATTER MOST.
By Michele Chiappetta
yourself, she notes, your business eventually suffers along with you. Marketing consultant James Bullis, who is president and founder of Ventin, a web solutions firm based in Jenks, Okla., echoes the sentiment. “As a business owner, I am my business’s greatest asset,” he says. “That means prioritizing my health and wellness.” How do you do it, though? How do you live your life and manage your business so that you are happy with your schedule, feeling fulfilled, maintaining your health, protecting your relationships, and keeping mentally fit? Answers will come — but only if you prioritize the issue and are proactively, mindfully committed to finding those answers. But trust me, you can do this. You can
arrive at a way to balance it all. Here are some tips to help you.
RECOGNIZE THE CAUSES OF IMBALANCE According to Inc. magazine, there are some common root causes of burnout. If you can nip them in the bud early, you’re less likely to suffer a problem. Working too many hours, overcommitting yourself, worrying about finances, failure to manage stress, not resting, eating badly — all are precursors to burnout. Tip: Know your tendencies. Personally, I don’t worry much about business finances. But I easily eat a lot of doughnuts and work seven days a week if I don’t watch myself. If I notice myself doing these things, it’s a signal to reconsider my schedule.
REST AT LEAST ONE DAY A WEEK Whether you consider it a Sabbath, a mental health day, a self-care day, or just relaxation time, it’s vital to dedicate at least one day of the week to not working. Read that again — you must refuse to work at least one day a week. Tip: Treat it like an unbreakable appointment. If rest time is calendared into your schedule, you’re more likely to make sure to get your rest time in.
SET CLEAR BOUNDARIES It’s easy to grab your phone and check email before you hop out of bed. It’s easy to take business calls at all hours. But that’s a sign you haven’t set boundaries on your workday. Tip: Establish set working hours. You don’t have to be open all the time just because you are your own boss. My hours are Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Having that set block of time in mind helps me recognize when I’m overcommitting.
DRESS THE PART If you work at home (as I do), it is all too tempting to wear sweatpants or yoga clothes. Don’t do this, at least not often. You’ll find it masks your weight gain, for one thing. Tip: If you dress in business clothes, you are much more likely to notice an expanding waistband and feel motivated to address it. Also, it helps distinguish work time from rest time if you dress differently for each.
LEARN TO SAY NO Ah, the bane of many a smallbusiness owner. You want work, and someone needs a favor. So, you agree. Then you realize you’ve overcommitted yourself. Do this too often, and it’s a sure way to get burned out.
Tip: Be realistic about what you can and can’t do. Don’t say yes if you can’t do it. And honestly — saying no to the wrong things frees you up to say yes to the right things, like work that pays better and takes less time.
TAKE CARE OF BODY AND MIND The more you’re on the go for work, the harder it can be to take time to eat right, exercise, and have fun. You may even feel guilty about doing these things, for a whole host of reasons. But these things are necessary. Tip: Remember — you are your business. Invest in yourself, knowing that your well-being will ultimately help your business grow. I often take breaks mid-afternoon for a workout, when I need a mental break as well as a physical one. Bullis does something similar: “Since I work for myself from home, I have set up my daily schedule to allow me to complete my client work early in the day and head to the gym in the mid-afternoon when it isn’t busy,” he says. “I think that the biggest tip is to prioritize yourself as the No. 1 asset. I believed that I could sacrifice my health in order to become successful. However, all that leads to is misery. Now I prioritize my health so that I can operate in a peak performance. I am operating better than I ever have before. It makes me more effective for my team and my customers.”
I’d love to hear your suggestions for what I should investigate over the next several months in terms of entrepreneurship in Tulsa. Feel free to message your ideas to Preview 918 on Facebook (which I can see anytime), or email me, or share ideas on Twitter or Instagram with the hashtags #lovethe918 or #tulsasmallbusiness.
PREVIEW918.COM 63
TT TAKEN WITH TULSA
What a Grind WITH COFFEE CAFES AS NUMEROUS IN CERTAIN NEIGHBORHOODS AS BARS (AND OFFERING DIFFERENT VIBES AND LEVELS OF EXPERTISE) IT CAN BE A TASK TO FIGURE OUT WHERE TO GET YOUR NEXT CAFFEINE FIX. By Lindsey Mills
For 21 years I didn’t drink coffee. I couldn’t stand it. Even those super-sweet-almost-a-milkshake concoctions from local coffee houses and big names like Starbucks, I absolutely could not handle. I know, gasp. In my final year of college, however, I gave it a real shot. I started with iced coffee from Dunkin’ Donuts and worked into more serious drinks like regular coffee and lattes. Now, I drink at least one, sometimes two — three when I’m desperate — cups of coffee a day. When I wake up, I think, “Mmm coffee.” I’m sure I can’t be the only one who started drinking coffee later in the game. What got you drinking the energy packed bitter-goodness? Was it the draw of caffeine to fuel your day, the marketing of delightful holiday drinks, or the lure of cozy coffee shops that drew you in? Perhaps it was all of the above. I enjoy making a cup of coffee at home, snuggling on the couch to drink it, and taking in those moments as the caffeine does something magical to my body, my motivation, and my mindset. However, as much as I love homemade coffee, I really love ordering a fancy drink from a coffee shop, settling into a comfy corner to do some work, and seeing that lovely design they create in the foam.
64 JANUARY 2019
It’s difficult for me to knock out projects and work on the computer from home. The atmosphere at a coffee shop gives me that boost I need. Maybe it’s because I feel like I’m in a cute little movie, or maybe it’s because my bed isn’t around the corner calling my name. Whatever the case, a great coffee shop is something I place high on the list of priorities. Luckily for me, Tulsa has ample to offer. I just keep trying new ones. And returning to my favorites.
Cirque Coffee 1317 E. 6TH ST. | TULSA
This spot deserves recognition for good coffee and a great set up. The bar is beautifully sculpted, and the wall is a work of art. The vibe of this place feels more modern than cozy, more social than workish. I went to write this article, but will return to hang out with friends.
Coffee House on Cherry Street
Foolish Things Coffee Company
1502 E. 15TH ST. | TULSA
1001 S. MAIN ST. | TULSA
I go for the coffee; I stay because I have to sit down and eat one of those magical desserts. CHOC, as some people call it, offers a variety of cookies, pies, and cakes that more than satisfy my sweet tooth. It’s difficult to choose from the beautiful cakes and pies, so if possible, take a friend so that you can sample theirs. CHOC also caters to gluten-free and vegan needs.
I walked up to the counter, perused the coffee list, and asked for that day’s espresso with a flavor. I only thought I had become a real coffee drinker. “The day’s espresso” is referring to a single shot, as the man at the counter kindly explained. I ordered a latte, but resisted a cookie, and sat down at this modern, comfortable coffee spot.
DoubleShot Coffee Company 1730 S. BOSTON AVE. | TULSA
This spot is perfect for coffee, grabbing a bite to eat, getting work done, or hanging out with friends. It’s hard to find that balance in atmosphere that is perfect for several occasions, but I can confidently suggest that DoubleShot is a great space to be, whether you’ve got your headphones on bent over your work, or you’re there to catch-up with an old friend.
Gathering Place 2650 S. JOHN WILLIAMS WAY | TULSA
What’s incredible about this park is there really is something for everyone. Traditionally, parks are a place for leisure and play, but with a coffee shop and ample room to sit down for the day, The Lodge at the Gathering Place is the perfect place to settle in and read, work, or relax.
Topeca We drank Topeca coffee at home for a while before we actually sought out the coffee shop itself. With more than one location downtown, you have the option for a great space to work (507 S. Boston Ave.) or eat and catch up with a friend (100 E. 2nd St.).
Shades of Brown Coffee and Art 3302 S. PEORIA AVE. | TULSA
TI
N
TO
UC
H
What do we do now? I want to hear your suggestions, whether you’re a native Tulsan or a newbie like us.
GE
Because I like my coffee sweet as opposed to black, I really appreciate when the menu has some creative spins on flavor. I’ve had something different each time I visit but am never disappointed. Up front there’s a cozy couch and evolving selection of used books, but in the back is the perfect space to get yourself in work mode.
We want to know where to hang out, pig-out, shop ’til we drop, and everything in between. If you know a place with a great story, share it with us so we can go check it out. Every day is an adventure with our little family, and I’m sharing our story because I think some people can relate. Follow us on Instagram and/ or search #TakenWithTulsa or #NewInTtown to check out our latest adventures as we seek out new experiences and share our advice on how to embrace Tulsa.
PREVIEW918.COM 65
FN FAIL IT OR NAIL IT
Channeling Child By Tiffany Duncan
Cooking five-star meals with obscure meats, ingredients, and sauces is not just for the experienced cook; it can be for anyone with a desire to learn. This month’s challenge: Boeuf Bourguignon.
Ever since then I’ve loved to be in the kitchen, and that really ramped up last year when I came across a little vintage 1948 O’Keefe and Merritt stove buried under a mound of crap in a cramped, claustrophobic antique store. Gleaming white porcelain with delightfully retro chrome nobs and crumb trays … it was love at first sight. I’ve christened her Ethel, after both of my great grandmothers. It’s the kind of stove that, simply by looking at it, you can almost smell all the fragrant pots of stew that were cooked there, and hear the whistling tea kettles of the past. Around the same time I acquired Ethel I also watched Julie and Julia, a movie that alternates back and forth between telling the story of how Julia Child became Julia Child in post-WW II France, and how an average girl in the early 2000s deals with stress and identity issues by endeavoring to cook all of Child’s recipes in a year. After finishing that movie, I had a revelation: cooking five-star meals with obscure meats, ingredients, and sauces is not just for the experienced cook; it can be for anyone with a desire to learn. After all, that’s how Child herself started. I bought my first real cook books shortly after seeing that movie, and it’s been a stopstart kind of year learning what terms like “blanche” and “braise” mean.
I’m not sure where my love of cooking originated. Perhaps it’s always been there, as I come from a long line of cooks and Tulsa State Fair champion bakers. Or maybe it really started in fifth grade, when I made a
66 JANUARY 2019
box of mac and cheese for the first time by myself. It was just a box of cheap pasta and powdered cheese — hard to mess up, really — but I remember feeling like I could take on the world after that.
All that being said, I will be taking on a new project in 2019 for Preview 918: each month, I will tackle those recipes and dishes typically not undertaken by the average cook. I will laugh in the face of intimidation (or at the very least try not to cry or cuss too much) and venture into the niche culinary world of weird smells and far-less-than-average shopping lists. And each month, I will either nail it or fail it.
FAIL IT OR NAIL IT FN For January, and in honor of Child, I thought I would finally try a recipe from her infamous cookbook, Mastering the Art of French Cooking. I opened the thick tome to Page 315 to get an overview of one of her flagship dishes — Boeuf Bourguignon — which translates simply to “Beef stew in red wine with bacon, onions, and mushrooms.” Ah, deceptively simple, Julia. The first instructions were to cut a 6-ounce chunk of bacon into lardons. Oh boy. Stuck already. Luckily Google came to the rescue and informed me that lardons are basically just ¼-inch thick by 1 1/2-inch-long strips of bacon. (Seriously though. What did people ever do without Google and YouTube?) The real problem, however, was that the recipe kept talking about the bacon “rind.” Upon further Googling, I discovered that rind-on bacon is very uncommon in most American supermarkets, so I headed to Perry’s meat market off 11th Street and Lewis Avenue. Perry’s specializes in more uncommon cuts of meat, and if you’ve never been there (like me), it’s like stepping back in time to an old-world butchery. With its charming black-and-white tiled floor and knowledgeable butchers, I was already glad I’d chosen this recipe because it got me out of my comfort zone and into a new environment. I chatted with other patrons in line as I waited on my bacon and stew meat to be sliced. Once home, I surveyed my 3 pounds of meat and lardons, took a deep breath, and began. I had the most trouble searing the 3 pounds of meat, mainly because I cut them into far too small of pieces. They were supposed to be 2-inch cubes, but that seemed too large so I cut them much smaller because clearly I know what I’m doing more than Child. The meat cubes needed to be patted dry before hitting the hot oil, because if they are too wet they won’t brown properly. But since I had cut them so small I spent almost an hour between cutting them, patting them dry, and then browning them in batches because you can’t crowd the pan. There was literally blood and grease dripping down my counters, and hot oil popping absolutely everywhere. I know it feels natural to stand over a pot as you cook, but for the love of everything do not do this. Once I’d finally managed to get all contents into the oven for the 2½ hour braise time, I was already drinking the cooking wine straight from the bottle. To top it off, I’d made the cardinal
mistake of inviting friends over when trying a new recipe, and I grossly misjudged how long all of this would take (I started cooking at 3 p.m.; I finally put the thing in the oven at 5:30 p.m.). So they were on their way, I was bespattered with grease, and the kitchen looked like a crime scene. Luckily they are wonderfully amazing people and helped me finish out the recipe, even doing some of the dishes. bowls and try my first attempt at Boeuf Bourguignon. And … it was actually pretty tasty. It was a bit dry, though, likely because I cut the meat into too small of chunks, I opened the oven, pulled out the pot, lifted the and all of my liquid had evaporated. Plus lid … and knew I had done something wrong. I’m sure having a finishing sauce would It did smell amazing, but I’d identified my next have helped. problem: there was theoretically supposed to be enough liquid left to strain out and make a Even though I somehow managed to dirty brown sauce with, but there was none left to nearly every pot, pan, cutting board and plate speak of. I believe this is possibly because the I owned, I’m still going to call this one a win recipe called for three cups of wine but I only for a few reasons: first, it was not only edible, added two. Ethel also cooks really, really hot, but actually pretty dang good; second, I now so I should have anticipated this and added a know what a lardon is; and third, I cooked a bit more liquid as it evaporated. French recipe from start to finish — for this I’d like to personally thank the cooking wine Since I couldn’t make the sauce, there for picking me up when I was down, and was nothing left to do but dish it out into helping me to achieve this feat. At 8 p.m. the timer went off. Judgment day had arrived.
PREVIEW918.COM 67
ET EATS + TREATS
I
SEASONAL STARTERS O DULL T E V A H DON’T IONS. S R E T T A PL BRAT D E L N E A C S E D RY PLATRING YEAR-EN A U N A J TIONS, ILL BELLIES DU U L O S E YEAR REASTS THAT F W E N Y H ALT ON TO THE F E H H T I EVEN WIN COMPARIS
by SARAH HERRERA photos by SARAH HERRERA Some may find the task of preparing meals after the hoopla of the holiday season to be a daunting one. And, why wouldn’t they? After being stuffed silly with a great uncle’s famous dish, a few traditional family favorites, and then way (way, way!) too many desserts,
68 JANUARY 2019
the thought of anything less than savory is a nightmare in itself. But fear not. Even with healthy New Year resolutions, January plates and platters don’t have to dull in comparison to the feasts that
fill bellies during year-end celebrations. In fact, there are some pretty fantastic items that are only in season during these starting months. So, gather some Brussels sprouts, blood oranges, and sweet potatoes, and prepare to
kick off the new year with these wild recipes. But be warned: Your hands will turn hysterically pink, your eyes will obsess over the array of magnificent colors, and your tongue and heart will be happy as you serve up with pride and satisfy those insides with some new favorites.
KUMQUAT AND RED CABBAGE PRESSED SALAD
EATS + TREATS ET
Adapted from booklynsupper.com January is full of so many beginnings, and this salad is the perfect pal to pair alongside your new endeavors. It’s healthy, it’s delicious, and it’s an adventure in itself. SALAD INGREDIENTS:
CHOCOLATE BEET CAKE WITH BLOOD ORANGE FROSTING
Beets, blood oranges, and baking. These three bizarre yet surprisingly delicious ingredients combine to make one superb dessert and an adventure for your taste buds.
head red cabbage (sliced thin) ½ ½ red onion (sliced thin) 2 carrots (cut into matchsticks) ¼ cup of candied ginger (chopped) DRESSING INGREDIENTS:
1 Tbsp. blood orange juice 1 tsp. maple syrup ½ tsp. sesame oil
INGREDIENTS:
3 to 4 beets 1 ¼ cup of flour ¾ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder 1 tsp. baking powder ½ tsp. baking soda 1 Tbsp. salt 3 eggs 1 ¼ cup of sugar 1 tsp. vanilla extract 1 cup of olive oil 4 ounces of cream cheese 8 Tbsp. unsalted butter ¼ cup of powdered sugar pinch of salt 1 Tbsp. beet juice ( from reserved grated beets) 1 tsp. blood orange zest 1 Tbsp. blood orange juice blood orange wedges (for garnish)
Tbsp. turmeric seasoning ½ 2 tsp. salt ¼ cup rice vinegar
2-4 kumquats (peeled and sliced with no seeds) 1 tsp. black sesame seeds 1 ⁄3 cup scallions (chopped)
DIRECTIONS:
1. Combine all the salad ingredients in a bowl. Massage with hands to mix. Snugly set a heavy bowl or plate over salad to press (add weights like a jar or can). Set in the fridge for one or more hours while pressed. 2. Remove from fridge and pour off excess liquid. 3. Prep the dressing in a small bowl by whisking together the blood orange juice, maple syrup, and sesame oil. Drizzle over salad. Add kumquat slices. Toss.
4. Plate the salad. Top with sesame seeds and scallions.
MAPLE GLAZED TWO-SAUSAGE SKILLET Adapted from hungryhobby.net Whether you’re a breakfast-for-dinner kind of person, or a connoisseur of the sweeter things in life, this colorful hash is happiness
in a bowl, and it’s certain to make you sigh in syrupy satisfaction.
DIRECTIONS:
1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Remove beet greens and scrub beets. Arrange in baking dish, add ½ inch cold water, and cover with foil. Bake until fork tender (50-60 minutes). Remove foil (hot steam, careful!), drain water, and set beets aside to cool. 2. Once cool, peel beets under cold water with fingers or peeler under. 3. For the cake, preheat oven to 350. Grease a 9-inch by 5-inch loaf pan. Dust with cooking spray and cocoa powder. 4. Grate beets until you have 1 ¼ cups worth. Reserve ¼ cup for frosting. 5. In a bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. 6. In a bowl, beat eggs and sugar, beets, vanilla, flour, and olive oil. Mix well. 7. Pour into baking pan. Bake 65-75 minutes. 8. For the frosting, beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, salt, blood orange juice and zest, and reserved beet juice (a little at a time until desired color is achieved). 9. Frost cooled cake, and garnish with blood orange wedges.
DISH INGREDIENTS:
3 to 4 sweet potatoes cut into bite-sized cubes 1 package of apple chicken sausage (links) 1 package of maple breakfast sausage (links) 3 cups of halved Brussels sprouts
1 can of corn 2 Tbsp. vegetable oil 1 cup of water salt and pepper to taste SAUCE INGREDIENTS:
cup maple syrup ½ ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce 2 Tbsp. lemon juice DIRECTIONS:
1. Prep the sauce by combining the maple syrup, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice in a bowl. Set aside. 2. Add 1 tablespoon of oil to a skillet (with a lid) and add the veggies. Brown the veggies until desired level, then add the sauce and cook covered until they are tender. 3. Add 1 tablespoon of oil to a pan set to medium-high. Add the sausage. Cook until crispy on all sides. Once cooked, cut into bites and add to the skillet of veggies. 4. Mix well.
PREVIEW918.COM 69
RB RESTAURANT + BAR FINDER
We are tapped into what’s trending and delicious, giving you a first-hand look at where to go, what to eat, where the best cocktails are, and how to map out your culinary adventures in the 918. Whatever your mood, whatever you crave, the 918 has a restaurant or bar sure to satisfy. From local classics to chain favorites, a variety of options catering to every palate and pocketbook are available. For those on the move, search our website database with over 200 restaurants and bars in nearly 20 categories.
PREVIEW918.COM/DINE-DRINK
CATEGORIES AMERICAN ASIAN BAKERY BARBECUE BARS + PUBS BREAKFAST BRUNCH COFFEE DELI FINE DINING GLOBAL ITALIAN MEDITERRANEAN MEXICAN PIZZA SEAFOOD SPECIALTY STEAK SWEETS 70 JANUARY 2019
FEATURED LISTINGS ALBERT G’S BAR-B-Q 2748 S. Harvard Ave. | Tulsa 918-747-4799
SEE AD | PAGE 53
CHIMI’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT
1304 E. 15th St. | Tulsa 918-587-4411 SEE AD | PAGE 85
ALBERT G’S BAR-B-Q
421 E. 1st St. | Tulsa 918-728-3650 SEE AD | PAGE 53
AMAZING THAI CUISINE 1232 E. Kenosha St. | Broken Arrow 918-258-8424 SEE AD | PAGE 43
BAXTER’S INTERURBAN GRILL
717 S. Houston Ave., Suite 100 | Tulsa 918-585-3134 SEE AD | PAGE 75
BROWNIES
2130 S. Harvard Ave. | Tulsa 918-744-0320 SEE AD | PAGE 65
BROWNIES
422 Plaza Court, Suite B | Sand Springs 918-514-0222 SEE AD | PAGE 65
CAFE OLÉ
3509 S. Peoria Ave. | Tulsa 918-745-6699 SEE AD | PAGE 99
CAZ’S CHOWHOUSE
18 E. M.B. Brady St. | Tulsa 918-588-2469 SEE AD | PAGE 28
CAZ’S PUB
21 E. M.B. Brady St. | Tulsa 918-585-8587 SEE AD | PAGE 28
CELEBRITY RESTAURANT
3109 S. Yale Ave. | Tulsa 918-743-1800 SEE AD | PAGE 43
CHIMI’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT 5320 S. Harvard Ave. | Tulsa 918-749-7755
SEE AD | PAGE 85
GEORGE’S PUB
108 N. 1st St. | Jenks 918-296-9711 SEE AD | PAGE 81
GOODCENTS DELI FRESH SUBS
8222 E. 103rd St. | Tulsa 918-364-7827 SEE AD | PAGE 25
HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO TULSA
777 W. Cherokee St. | Catoosa 800-760-6700 SEE AD | PAGE 11
BUFFET
CHIMI’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT
6709 E. 81st St. | Tulsa 918-960-2723 SEE AD | PAGE 85
DAVE & BUSTER’S
6812 S. 105th E. Ave. | Tulsa 918-449-3100 SEE AD | PAGE 75
FLIP SIDE HWY. 66 DINER MCGILL’S ON 19
EL CHICO
9825 E. 21st St. | Tulsa 918-663-7755 SEE AD | PAGE 65
ELMER’S BBQ
4130 S. Peoria Ave. | Tulsa 918-742-6702 SEE AD | PAGE 85
FAT DADDY’S PUB AND GRILLE
8056 S. Memorial Dr. | Tulsa 918-872-6206 SEE AD | PAGE 53
FLO’S BURGER DINER 19322 E. Admiral Place | Catoosa 918-739-4858 SEE AD | PAGE 36
FLO’S BURGER DINER 2604 E. 11th St. | Tulsa 918-398-7102 SEE AD | PAGE 36
FUJI
8226 E. 71st St. | Tulsa 918-250-1821 SEE AD | PAGE 89
REPLAY RIFFS SALSA SLICE THE PERFECT CUP TOBY KEITH’S I LOVE THIS BAR & GRILL
HOOTERS
8108 E. 61st St. | Tulsa 918-250-4668 SEE AD | PAGE 47
IN THE RAW
3321 S. Peoria Ave. | Tulsa 918-744-1300 SEE AD | PAGE 98
IN THE RAW
6151 S. Sheridan Road | Tulsa 918-524-0063 SEE AD | PAGE 98
RESTAURANT + BAR FINDER RB IN THE RAW
216 S. Main St. | Broken Arrow 918-893-6111
MIXCO
3rd and Denver | Tulsa 918-932-8571
SEE AD | PAGE 98
SEE AD | PAGE 7
INCREDIBLE PIZZA
MOLLY’S LANDING
SEE AD | PAGE 3
SEE AD | PAGE 36
8314 E. 71st St. | Tulsa 539-302-2681
JASON’S DELI
8321 E. 61st St. | Tulsa 918-252-9999 SEE AD | PAGE 25
MONDO’S RISTORANTE ITALIAN 3410 S. Peoria Ave. | Tulsa 918-561-6300
1330 E. 15th St. | Tulsa 918-599-7777 SEE AD | PAGE 25
JUNIPER
324 E. 3rd St. | Tulsa 918-794-1090 SEE AD | PAGE 7
LANNA THAI
7227 S. Memorial Drive | Tulsa 918-249-5262 SEE AD | PAGE 23
LOS CABOS
300 Riverwalk Terrace #100 | Jenks 918-298-2226 SEE AD | PAGE 9
LOS CABOS
151 Bass Pro Drive | Broken Arrow 918-355-8877 SEE AD | PAGE 9
LOS CABOS
9455 N. Owasso Expressway | Owasso 918-609-8671 SEE AD | PAGE 9
MARYN’S TAPHOUSE AND RAW BAR
400 Riverwalk Terrace, Suite 180 | Jenks 918-946-2796 SEE AD | PAGE 81
MEXICALI BORDER CAFÉ 14 W. M.B. Brady St. | Tulsa 918-582-3383 SEE AD | PAGE 29
NAPA FLATS WOOD‑FIRED KITCHEN 9912 Riverside Parkway | Tulsa 918-948-6505
SEE AD | PAGE 75
OL’VINE FRESH GRILL
3523 S. Peoria Ave. | Tulsa 918-747-9463 SEE AD | PAGE 99
TIKI DINER VISIONS BUFFET
THE BISTRO AT SEVILLE
111 N. Main St. | Tulsa 918-794-7700 SEE AD | PAGE 7
RICARDOS MEXICAN RESTAURANT 5629 E. 41st St. | Tulsa 918-622-2668
SEE AD | PAGE 89
RIVER SPIRIT CASINO RESORT
8330 Riverside Parkway | Tulsa SEE AD | PAGE 100
SEE AD | PAGE 74
ROSE ROCK MICROCREAMERY
The Boxyard | 502 E. 3rd St, #35 | Tulsa 918-396-8001 SEE AD | PAGE 46
ROZAY’S WINGZ AND THINGS
2627 E. 11th St. | Tulsa 918-271-5051 SEE AD | PAGE 89
RUSTIC GATE CREAMERY
101 W. Main St. | Jenks 918-528-6227
SABORES
The Boxyard | 502 E. 3rd St., Unit 27 | Tulsa 918-212-9065 SEE AD | PAGE 44
SISSEROU’S CARIBBEAN RESTAURANT 107 N. Boulder Ave. | Tulsa 918-576-6800
FIRESIDE GRILL
SMOKE. WOODFIRE GRILL
1542 E. 15th St. | Tulsa 918-949-4440
SOUL CITY
1621 E. 11th St. | Tulsa 918-582-7685 SEE AD | PAGE 33
JOHNNY ROCKETS LANDSHARK BAR MARGARITAVILLE 918-995-8080
RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE
TI AMO RISTORANTE ITALIANO 6024 S. Sheridan Road | Tulsa 918-499-1919
SEE AD | PAGE 74
TI AMO RISTORANTE ITALIANO 219 S. Cheyenne Ave. | Tulsa 918-592-5151
SEE AD | PAGE 74
TROPICAL RESTAURANT & BAR 8125 E. 49th St. | Tulsa 918-895-6433 SEE AD | PAGE 23
VILLAGE INN
2745 S. Harvard Ave. | Tulsa (918) 742-3515 SEE AD | PAGE 89
VILLAGE INN
3302 S. Memorial Dr. | Tulsa (918) 622-5015 SEE AD | PAGE 89
SEE AD | PAGE 29
SEE AD | PAGE 74
5 O’CLOCK SOMEWHERE BAR
SEE AD | PAGE 7
10021 S. Yale Ave., #103 | Tulsa 918-296-3000
SEE AD | PAGE 81
PRHYME: DOWNTOWN STEAKHOUSE
TAVOLO
427 S. Boston Ave. | Tulsa 918-949-4498
3700 N. Old Hwy 66 | Catoosa 918-266-7853
SEE AD | PAGE 98
JASON’S DELI
SCOREBOARD SPORTS BAR
SWEET BOUTIQUE
The Boxyard | 502 E. 3rd St., #13 | Tulsa 918-900-2238 SEE AD | PAGE 46
TANDOORI GUYS
2039 W. Houston St. | Broken Arrow 918-893-2450
VILLAGE INN
5230 S. Yale Ave. | Tulsa (918) 496-1207 SEE AD | PAGE 89
VILLAGE INN
8320 E. 71st St. | Tulsa (918) 254-7623 SEE AD | PAGE 89
WATERFRONT GRILL
120 Aquarium Drive | Jenks 918-518-6300 SEE AD | PAGE 9
YUTAKA GRILL AND SUSHI BUFFET 6560 E. 51st St. | Tulsa 918-921-3400
SEE AD | PAGE 75
SEE AD | PAGE 33
918-995-8600
PREVIEW918.COM 71
FT FOOD FOR THOUGHT Even if you are unfamiliar with the term “mother sauces,” you are likely eating and enjoying them all the time without actually realizing it. •• BY TIFFANY DUNCAN
the _ Trench Five 72 JANUARY 2019
FOOD FOR THOUGHT FT If you don’t spend a lot of time in the kitchen, you may not be familiar with the concept of the “five French mother sauces.” You may have possibly heard someone referencing the “mother sauces” in a cooking show, or perhaps on a movie set in the gourmet culinary world, but you still have little idea what it actually means. Even if you are unfamiliar with the term, you are likely eating and enjoying these sauces all the time without actually realizing it — especially if you are a fan of that star dish of the brunch menu, eggs Benedict. The prime
The White Sauces: BÉchamel and VeloutÉ Béchamel is simply a roux of flour and butter with milk or cream added to it. From there, a béchamel can be used in multiple ways: add herbs, spices, or additional melted butter to create a simple yet elegant finishing sauce; add Parmesan to make a decadent cheese sauce; or pour it as-is into a pot of soup to thicken it up, among many, many others. Velouté is also made from a flour-butter roux, but instead of added dairy it receives a fish, meat, or poultry base, and often the addition of a splash of wine. One of the main characteristics that distinguishes these two
decadent ingredient that makes eggs Benedict so irresistibly delicious is hollandaise sauce, which just so happens to be one of the five mother sauces. Alfredo sauce and other cream or cheesebased sauces are also derivatives that come directly from another one of the mother sauces, called béchamel. And if you’ve ever made a roux and added milk to it to thicken up a soup or pour over a casserole, you’ve made béchamel (see, you’re fancy and didn’t even know it). Many hundreds of other sauces we use today are all derived from
white sauces from the other mother sauces is that they are made rapidly, not simmered and slaved over for hours. According to Julia Child’s Mastering the Art of French Cooking, she says, “Many of the old cookbooks recommend that a white sauce, especially a velouté, be simmered for several hours, the object being to rid the sauce of its floury taste, and to concentrate flavor. However, if the flour and butter roux is properly cooked to begin with, and a concentrated, well-flavored stock is used, both of these problems have been solved at the start.” When making a white sauce, be sure to use a heavy-bottomed enamel or stainless-steel pot to do so, as a thin metal pan will cause the sauce to scorch and burn.
these five main sauces — hence the name, “mother.”
tomate. These remain the five recognized mother sauces.
The French mother sauces were originally proposed by MarieAntoine Carême, a French chef in the early 19th century. Carême only set forth four sauces, however. These four were béchamel, espagnole, velouté, and allemande. But in the early 20th century, world-renowned French chef Auguste Escoffier changed it up a bit by dropping allemande (saying instead it was a daughter sauce of velouté), and adding hollandaise and sauce
The right sauce can elevate any dish — improving and balancing flavor, compensating for under-seasoning or adding striking visual contrast.
Brown Sauce: Espagnole Espagnole, meaning “Spanish” in French, has a couple of different origin stories. Some say that this important brown sauce in French cooking came to be when the Spanish cooks in attendance to Louis XIII’s bride, Anne — a Spanish princess — were preparing her wedding feast, and they insisted on making improvements to the traditional brown French sauce at the time. But another story holds that espagnole came roaring onto the scene when Spanish fashions and foods were all the rage in Paris in the 1700s under Louis XV. Whichever it may be, sauce espagnole is the heaviest of all mother sauces and is rarely served on its own, but used
Because it is January, the prime season for staying warm inside and partaking of rich comfort foods, let’s take a more detailed look at each of these sauces so you can start to get an idea of how to enrich and liven up your next dish utilizing one of the five mother sauces:
simply as a base to create dozens of other sauces. It is made by first making a brown roux (clarified butter mixed with flour and cooked down for a longer period), and then adding in the stock and bones of veal or beef, and sometimes added vegetables as well. The sauce reduces down until the connective tissue dissolves, and a thick, rich, flavorful base sauce is achieved.
Hollandaise Hollandaise is made simply of three components: warmed egg yolks flavored with lemon juice, and butter. Hollandaise seems as if it would be easy to make, but the real trouble comes in with the egg yolks being susceptible to curdling. To avoid curdling the yolks, or accidentally scrambling
roux Though it sounds fancy, a roux is simply whisking a fat (like butter or ghee) with flour over heat until combined, and then adding in a liquid. The point of a roux is to create a sauce texture thick enough so that it will coat and cling to food, or thicken up a thinner liquid (like a soup).
them, they must be heated very slowly, with a gradual addition of the butter, giving the yolks time to slowly absorb. It’s all about getting the exact butter-to-yolk ratio correct, about 3 ounces of butter per yolk. It is worth putting in the time to master this coveted sauce, as you can impress your friends or simply fancy up a Saturday morning.
Sauce Tomate This is not the same variety as your average jarred tomato sauce. Think rich, aromatic, and deeply layered with flavor. Sauce tomate is made by reducing down tomatoes into a thick sauce, thickened with a roux, and simmered with the addition of vegetables and meat — particularly salty pork.
PREVIEW918.COM 73
74 JANUARY 2019
wines AND patio bar BOUTIQUE
steaks AND fresh fish HAND-CUT
WOOD-FIRED
pizza
918.948.6505
9912 SOUTH RIVERSIDE DR. | TULSA, OK 74137
www.napaflats.com
PREVIEW918.COM 75
and Gone to Heaven
BY MICHELE CHIAPPETTA AND ROB HARMON
76 JANUARY 2019
Bricktown Brewery
Chicken-fried steak is so popular that it's served in many establishments, from diners to fivestar restaurants, and prepared in several ways, from burgers to breakfast platters. It is included in Oklahoma’s official state meal, and its origins are still up for debate — but chicken-fried steak has been an Oklahoma tradition for so long that it might as well have started right here in Tulsa. Before the first United States decennial census of 1910, just three years after Oklahoma was granted statehood, a combined 30,000 German and Austrian immigrants moved into these parts. With them, they brought their recipes for wiener schnitzel, goulash, bratwurst and a whole lot more delicious foods. Resembling the look and taste of the traditional wiener schnitzel, a chicken-fried steak is simply a tenderized cube steak that is pan-fried and coated with seasoned flour. But the definition does little to describe the love affair Oklahomans have for this crispy, browned dish. Here in Green Country, we make it at home every chance we can, and then we eat it again when we go out to a restaurant. It’s just that good. Truth be told, many restaurants around Tulsa just wouldn’t dream of sending a menu out to their tables without including a good chicken-fried steak. Here are some of the many fantastic places you can get a downright tasty chicken-fried steak to soothe your soul.
9409 E. 71ST ST. T U LSA 3301 S. PEORIA AVE. T U LSA 11909 E. 96TH ST. N. OWASSO
Baxter's Interurban Grill 717 S. HOUSTON AVE. T U L SA
Since the 1970s, some of the finest comfort food and other tasty meals that evoke Americana has been right there on 717 South Houston. Even after a fire almost ended the restaurant for good years back, it’s still going strong and as consistent as ever. The classic mainstay throughout has been their chicken-fried steak. You will thoroughly enjoy the crispy, breaded, six-ounce sirloin meal, served with yummy garlic mashed potatoes, savory green beans and rich cream gravy. This is the kind of meal you’re tempted to take some home with you in order to treat yourself the next day to amazing leftovers.
When you’re in the mood for local, Oklahoma-crafted beers, then a trip to Bricktown Brewery needs to be on your list of places to go. India pale ale, rye ale, stout and more — you’ll find plenty to love here. And to help you drink more without falling down, try their chicken-fried steak — a handbattered chopped steak served with maple pepper gravy, mashed potatoes and green beans for a visit-to-grandma’s feel. Don’t forget to save room for their Sizzling Apple Crisp or their Big Cookies & A Little Milk. Let’s face it. Comfort food and beer? You can’t go wrong.
Caz's Chowhouse 18 E. M.B. BRADY ST. T U LSA
Charleston's 3726 S. PEORIA AVE. T U L SA
Casual, upbeat, moderately priced — it’s pretty clear why Green Country residents love a trip to Charleston’s. The warm, dark wood interior creates a sense of comfort you can relax into as you enjoy good food and great conversation with your dinner companions. You can go for anything from burgers to prime rib, but their chicken-fried steak is one of their specialties. It’s hand-breaded with black pepper chipotle gravy, and served with mashed potatoes and sweet glazed carrots. Start off the meal with spicy Dynamite Shrimp and finish with the German chocolate cake for a decadent meal through and through.
Choose either chicken-fried steak or, for a twist, chicken-fried chicken in Tulsa’s Arts District’s popular upscale, down-home eating establishment — Caz’s Chowhouse. With the most amazing supporting cast of comfort-food style sides like green beans, black-eyed peas, and fried okra, you cannot go wrong. Folks love the creamy skillet gravy they lavishly pour on that delicious handbattered morsel. It makes every bite better than the last. Caz’s atmosphere makes every meal there a special event. It certainly is one of the best places to enjoy a memorable chicken-fried steak, or anything else your appetite is hankering for.
PREVIEW918.COM 77
Corner Cafe 1103 S. PEORIA AVE. T U L SA 731 N. SHERIDAN ROAD T U L SA
Clanton's Cafe
530 W. MAIN ST. C O L L I N SVI L L E
319 E. ILLINOIS AVE. VINITA
Traveling from Tulsa to Vinita is a short trip when you consider the payoff is a visit to Clanton’s. World famous, Clanton’s is the stuff nostalgia is based on. Right there on the old Oklahoma Route 66, this café is a throwback to generations past with huge dinner portions and melt-inyour-mouth desserts you’ll make the trip again for. But guess what most folks say is the best meal they’ve ever had at Clanton’s? It’s the chicken-fried steak, hands down. Anybody reading this who has had it before is already salivating, guaranteed. Guy Fieri from Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives even visited Clanton’s and said it was amazing.
When you want comfort food, what better place to visit than a local diner like Corner Café? Friendly staff serve up home-cooked food that’ll make you feel like you’re back in the 1950s, where everything was warm, fuzzy, and tasty. They serve breakfast all day, which is always tempting. But don’t forget to try their chicken-fried steak sometime. It’s made with homemade batter, crisp and topped with gravy. And you get sides like fresh rolls, black-eyed peas, mashed potatoes, coleslaw and more to choose from.
Freeway Cafe 1547 E. 3RD ST. T U LSA
465 S. SHERIDAN AVE. T U LSA
Dilly Diner 402 E. 2ND ST. T U L SA
Retro. That’s the feeling you get when visiting Dilly Diner. Tulsans love the atmosphere and, without a doubt, the food. As you could guess, one of the most raved about items on the menu is the chicken-fried steak. That’s because Dilly Diner knows how to bread a choice piece of meat and make it taste out of this world. It smells so good before it even hits your palate, you will thoroughly savor every bite. It really is that great. The scrumptious mashed potatoes and tender seasoned vegetables are the perfect sides for this belly pleaser of a meal.
Nelson's Buffeteria 4401 S. MEMORIAL DR. TULSA
Since the 1920s, this has been an establishment that finds itself pictured right next to a juicy chicken-fried steak in any Tulsa-influenced encyclopedia (if there was one). Nelson’s Buffeteria and their world-famous chicken-fried steak — the two just can’t be separated. We’d even venture to guess that most pictures you’ll find these days of the restaurant on social media will show a nice, big, mouth-watering slab of chicken-fried steak smothered in Nelson’s signature white gravy. Just south of 41st Street and Memorial Drive, you can’t miss Nelson’s iconic neon sign. Walk in and see if you can prove us wrong.
New Atlas Grill 415 S. BOSTON AVE. T U L SA
If you’ve driven by the Atlas Life Building in downtown Tulsa without stopping inside, now’s the time to do it. This historic landmark bears many marks of art deco style and class. It also houses the New Atlas Grill, a casual dining spot that serves breakfast and lunch during the week and brunch on weekends. In addition to their regular soups, salads, and sandwiches, they serve lunch specials, including Wednesday’s chickenfried steak — a generous portion served with cream gravy, mashed potatoes, glazed carrots and a biscuit, perfect for hearty eating anytime you’re craving it.
78 JANUARY 2019
5849 S. 49TH W. AVE. TU L SA
An upbeat diner feel, friendly servers, and ample portions at a good price are a few of the reasons people love Freeway Café. As you’re seated, you’ll take in some fun, ‘50s-style décor and an ample menu of selections. Their chicken-fried steak is a fun option because you can get it breakfast-style, alongside eggs and sides like hash browns, grits, or biscuit and gravy. Or get it dinner-style alongside a homemade roll, soup or salad, and a couple of tasty sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, corn, okra, tabouli and more.
Ollie's Station 4070 SOUTHWEST BLVD. T U L SA
On the west side, in Tulsa’s historic Redfork Corner, right at the spot where the old Route 66 and the area’s railroad meet, stands a Tulsa icon. A visit to Ollie’s will do two things for you: reignite any love you had as a kid for toy trains, and completely satisfy you with a full stomach. Find a table and sit down. Now, look up. Above your head will run a toy train, steaming to its imaginary destination. Now, look down again. You’ve just been served a piping hot plate of the most delicious chicken-fried steak you’ve ever had, served just the way granny would have done it.
The Bros. Houligan
Also Check Out
4848 S. YALE AVE. TULSA
This casual style bistro and friendly bar is loved by a lot of Tulsans for its reliable late-night menu of comfort foods and happy hour drink specials. Among the favorite menu items for regulars is the chicken-fried steak, which is served homestyle with as much mashed potatoes and green beans as you want. Visit on Thursdays when the chicken-fried steak is the special, and get $2 off the regular price. If you’re with family or friends, get the generous onion rings appetizer or a fried shrimp basket to share.
Brookside by Day 3313 S. PEORIA AVE. | TULSA
Evelyn's Soul Food 3014 N. 74TH E. AVE. | TULSA
Hammett House 1616 W. WILL ROGERS BLVD. | CLAREMORE
Savoy
Lilly's Diner
6033 S. SHERIDAN ROAD T U L SA
Tally's Good Food Cafe
With a century-long history in Tulsa, Savoy’s warm service and delicious food will have you coming back again and again for a satisfying breakfast or lunch. Get an ample portion of the chicken-fried steak for breakfast with eggs, homemade hash browns, home fries, grits, or some of their amazing pancakes. The lunch version comes with hot dinner rolls and sides. Once you’ve tasted the excellent food available there, you’ll no doubt become one of their regular customers.
1102 S. YALE AVE. TULSA 6100 S. SHERIDAN ROAD TULSA
This classic diner is so good, they had to make another one. There’s not only one Tally’s on 11th Street and Yale Avenue (the historic Route 66 location); now there’s another restaurant at 61st Street and Sheridan Road. Visit either one, or both, and you’ll understand why people have been cramming into this place since the 1980s. Open seven days a week and serving breakfast, lunch and dinner all day, Tally’s aims to please. When you order that big chicken-fried steak, if it’s not exactly the way you want it, they’ll fix it. That’s the Tally’s way. We doubt that you’ll have a problem with it or any of their amazing diner specialties.
19320 E. ADMIRAL PLACE | TULSA
Shiloh's 2604 N. ASPEN AVE. | BROKEN ARROW
Silver Dollar Cafe 1022 W. MAIN ST. | COLLINSVILLE
The Brook Restaurant and Bar 3401 S. PEORIA AVE. | TULSA
Twin Peaks 7007 S. MEMORIAL DR. | TULSA
Waterfront Grill 120 AQUARIUM DR. | JENKS
The Wild Fork 1820 UTICA SQUARE T U L SA
After you’ve used all your Utica Square gift cards from the holiday season, pop over to The Wild Fork for a meal you won’t soon forget. You’ll understand what we’re talking about the minute you enter the restaurant. The aromas from the kitchen and the dining room’s charmingly quaint and elegantly understated interior will please the senses before you’ve even had a seat. Of course, one of their most fantastic menu items has always been the delicious chicken-fried steak. Topped with rich, cream gravy and your choice of sides, it’s a perfect after-shopping meal. You’ll thank us for the suggestion.
Village Inn 2745 S. HARVARD AVE. T U LSA 5230 S. YALE AVE. T U LSA
3302 S. MEMORIAL DR. T U LSA 8320 E. 71ST ST. T U LSA
Village Inn is known, among other things, for its pie. In fact, it’s one of the best places to grab a slice of pie in all Green Country, with lots of flavors to choose from and whole pies to buy and bring home anytime you have a special occasion to celebrate. Of course, you’re a grown-up who eats your meal before dessert, right? Well, Village Inn has that covered too. Order their chicken-fried steak scrambler — a hearty fixing of chicken-fried steak scrambled with two eggs, diced onion, red bell pepper and sliced fresh mushrooms, topped with country sausage gravy. Or get the chicken-fried steak dinner with mashed potatoes, a buttermilk biscuit, and a side.
PREVIEW918.COM 79
J JENKS
80 JANUARY 2019
J JENKS
PREVIEW918.COM 81
TUCKED INTO THE BACK OF THE SPACIOUS OSAGE CASINO, RONI PEPPO’S OFFERS AN INTOXICATING JUMBLE OF CRUST, SAUCE AND CHEESE THAT IS NOTHING SHORT OF SUBLIME.
ON THE RANCH
82 JANUARY 2019
THE GODFATHER When you set out to explore Osage Casino, you can sure work up an appetite. Surrounded by bells and whistles and lights, not to mention an array of great dining options, it’s hard to make a choice. If you want to get your piece of pie, look for Roni Peppo’s Pizza Kitchen, a delightful way to make sure you don’t just get a piece of that good pie; you get the whole hot, bubbly, cheesy thing. Tucked into the back of the spacious Osage Casino floor right next to the Thunder Bar & Grill, Roni Peppo’s sets the pizzeria atmosphere with industrial style barn lights illuminating a deep red awning. A congenial sign sporting a traditional full, black, handlebar mustache lets you know you’re headed for some extra tasty pie. Inside the cozy circular space, the decor feels like an old-world pizza parlor fused with the casual atmosphere of a modern, quick service counter.
floor, you don’t have to worry that you’ll miss your fresh pie while it’s still hot. “Most of the time, it’s six to eight minutes,” says Flatt. “If we’re very busy, it may take a little longer.” The ingredients on display are fresh and tasty. Brian Bodenstab, who is the food and beverage manager for Osage Casino and Hotel, says, “Everything is fresh. The sauce and the dough is made just for us. It’s a nice, thin crust.” You start by picking up an order slip. Your custom pie will cost a mere $9, and comes with your choice of crust, sauce, meats, veggies, and cheeses. You can choose a regular crust or glutenfree crust.
Roni Peppo’s is all about delicious pizza and more. You choose the toppings, from traditional to exotic, and your pizza is made right in front of you.
The traditional marinara is loaded with great tomato taste and seasoned to perfection. Or you can choose creamy Alfredo for a rich and creamy base. Can’t choose? Try the pink marina for a little creaminess with your tomato. For something different, you can put your check mark by barbecue or ranch dressing for your sauce. Or go with a nice, flavorful pesto.
“They build their own pizza and watch it being made,” says chef Drew Flatt. “It’s quick-serve and custom made.” Your pizza begins its journey through the oven, and you get a pager so if you want to head back out to the gaming
You can choose up to three meats for your pizza. Options include traditional favorites like pepperoni, Italian sausage, and Canadian bacon. There’s a feisty, spicy pepperoni if you want a little extra sizzle on your pie. Beef,
bacon, and spicy capicola are also on the menu. Or you can get your pizza topped with grilled chicken breast, if that’s your thing. Pick up to three veggies to complement your pie. All your favorites are on the list, like mushrooms, black olives, and onions. You can add some unexpected flavors with options like artichokes, banana peppers, or giardiniera relish. Add some green with spinach, basil, and scallions. You can spice it up with jalapenos if you want a little extra flair. And in the ongoing “Is pineapple a pizza topping” debate, Roni Peppo’s comes down on the “yes” side. You can get pineapple on your pizza. Finish off your custom creation with your choice of cheeses. You can top it off with mozzarella, Parmesan, creamy fresh mozzarella, colby jack, or tangy feta. If you want one of Roni Peppo’s specialty pizzas, turn the ticket over and tick off an option like the Margherita or an On the Ranch pizza. Flatt loves the Hawaiian pizza. “I love the combination of sweet and salty,” he says. For Bodenstab, it’s the Margherita. “I like those flavors of tomato, basil, and olive oil.” Once you’ve picked out your toppings, you take your ticket to the counter and hand it in. While
PREVIEW918.COM 83
84 JANUARY 2019
R
If pizza’s not your jam, Roni Peppo’s has calzones, sandwiches and salads on order as well. The sandwiches are served hot, after a trip through the pizza oven.
RONI PEPPO’S Osage Casino | Tulsa 951 W. 36th St. N. 877-246-8777 osagecasino.com
TO
Pick up your pizza when it’s ready and dig in. It’s a generous portion for one, but plenty big enough to share with a friend, especially if you’ve got one of those big cookies waiting for dessert. The freshness shows in every bite. The crust is brown and crisp and so tasty, you aren’t likely to leave any pizza bones behind.
You’ve got sandwich options like a French dip or a Greek chicken. “The reuben is excellent,” says Flatt. The cranberry chicken and almond is a popular choice, with tangy cranberries and fresh made chicken salad.
CA
Next, you get to watch your pizza as it’s built right in front of you: the dough stretched out atop the rack, your sauce, cheese, and toppings as the staff takes fresh ingredients and makes them into your custom pie. The pizza oven is right there, and your pizza rides the belt to make the transformation from ingredients to hot and bubbly pizza.
You have a choice of bottled beverages, ranging from Pepsi and Mountain Dew, to Starbucks, to energy drinks. There’s even orange juice, so complement your meal with whatever you like best.
LO
you’re there, check out the dessert options on display. “We’ve got muffins and handmade cookies,” says Bodenstab. “Large, good-sized cookies.” Those cookies are big, but take your time looking over the selections. There are cakes, pies, and cheesecakes available in a dizzying variety. Dessert is an important decision. You want to make sure you make the best choice.
Monday-Sunday: 11 a.m.-3 a.m.
PREVIEW918.COM 85
mahi mahi with mango shrimp salsa
86 JANUARY 2019
Los Cabos offers up a range of dining experiences (traditional Mexican, coastal and Tex-Mex) along with innovative and daring drinks in a welcoming resortstyle oasis REMINISCENT OF a trip to Cancun or Cozumel. By Donna Leahey
camarones alambres
When was the last time you vacationed in Cancun or Cozumel? Well, that’s too long! Everyone deserves a break from their worries, but even if you can’t get away for a full-on resort vacation on the beach, you can still feel like you’re vacationing when you visit Los Cabos. “We wanted it to feel like you’re going on vacation,” says Michael Banks, vice president of operations and partner for Los Cabos and Waterfront Grill. “We want to bring that atmosphere, so you can forget your taxes and have margaritas.” You can find your lunchtime or dinner vacation at Los Cabos locations in Owasso, Jenks, and Broken Arrow as well as Kansas City and Springfield, Mo. “We have something for everyone,” Banks says. “We have traditional Mexican cuisine, coastal, and Tex-Mex.” Banks is proud of Los Cabos’ contribution to Jenks’ Riverwalk when the first Los Cabos opened in 2005. “We wanted to bring you to Cancun or Cozumel. We wanted to bring a big city restaurant to a smaller market. We have fresh food; a fun, inviting environment; and we helped open up the Riverwalk,” he says.
Photos by Marc Rains
top shelf strawberry margarita
After Los Cabos’ success in Jenks, 2006 brought the second location to Broken Arrow near the Bass Pro Shop, and in 2014, Owasso became home to the area’s third Los Cabos. With two sister locations in Missouri, Banks and his partners have their eyes on expanding into other markets around Oklahoma City or outlying markets like Stillwater or Claremore. All the Los Cabos locations have captured that resort town feel with red adobe featured strongly in their exterior design. The patio is an important part of Los Cabos, featuring live entertainment and a party atmosphere. The Jenks’ location looks out over a dramatic view of the Riverwalk and, of course, the river, while the Broken Arrow location overlooks the Bass Pro Shop’s lake. Banks and his partners take a peoplecentric view. “We follow the three ‘Ps’: people, process, and product. We take care of people, we have a good system in place, and we put out a good product.” Part of Los Cabos’ dedication to taking care of people is their tremendous charitable work. Los Cabos contributed $30,000 to the turtle habitat at the Oklahoma Aquarium. They donate food
tropical chicken tacos
to the Tulsa Youth Ranch, and Banks gives his time there as a mentor. They also give to the United Way, dog rescues, the homeless center, and Ronald McDonald House. For the holidays, Los Cabos hosted a toy drive, donated 50 turkeys to John 3:16 Mission, and adopted a family in need for Christmas. “All the GMs volunteer with different charities,” Banks says. As if that weren’t enough, Los Cabos helps celebrate Independence Day by contributing $50,000 to one of the largest fireworks displays in Tulsa, from the Jenks Bridge. The fajitas are some of the most popular items on the menu. Los Cabos’ Fajitas Famosas come with fresh, warm flour tortillas, cheese, sour cream, pico, rice, and your choice of beans. You can choose chicken, steak, shrimp, combination of chicken and steak, or the Fajita Trio — chicken, steak, and shrimp. If you’re there with a friend, check out the Fiesta Platter. It’s chicken and steak fajitas along with Los Cabos’ famous baby back ribs. The ribs are fall-offthe-bone tender and the whole plate is plenty for two. “The taco selection is very popular,” Banks says. Selection is the right word. There are nine taco options ranging
PREVIEW918.COM 87
shredded beef burrito
Camarones Alambres: a skewer of five jumbo shrimp, each stuffed with pepper jack cheese and a sliver of jalapeno and wrapped in bacon. The smoky bacon, delicate shrimp, creamy cheese, and bite of jalapeno make for a perfect mouthful.
If you’ve still got room for dessert, you can’t go wrong with fresh, homemade flan. They also offer a fried ice cream, sopapillas, or a Carnegie deli cheesecake to soothe that sweet tooth.
Los Cabos’ grilled pescado menu offers some not-to-be-missed seafood treats. The mahi mahi with mango shrimp salsa is a skillfully grilled mahi topped with sweet and tangy mango shrimp salsa. It’s a flavorful savory-and-sweet bite served with rice, beans, and one of Los Cabos’ sweet corn tamale cakes. If you love shrimp and bacon, don’t miss the
If you want a starter, check out the Los Cabos sampler. This plate lets you try chicken flautas, steak nachos, and fajita chicken nachos. You can also try the trendy fried avocadoes. Los Cabos serves up two avocado halves, lightly battered and fried, then topped with your choice of ground beef, fajita chicken, or sautéed shrimp. The sweet corn tamale cakes are a Los Cabos specialty. A pair of large sweet corn muffins are topped with avocado, tomatoes and cilantro, drizzled with chipotle ranch, and served atop homemade salsa verde. It is delicious and hearty.
If you need catering, give Los Cabos a call. With three locations in the Tulsa area as well as the Waterfront Grill, they have the staff, the kitchens, and the know-how to take care of any event big or small, extravagant or budget-conscious. “We’ve got four restaurants in town. We’ve got four trucks and plenty of people to draw from,” says Banks. “We’ve done $7 a person and $70 a person. We can do anything. Ten people up to 2,000 or 3,000. Recently we did 1,800 breakfast burritos.”
LOS CABOS MEXICAN GRILL AND CANTINA
LOS CABOS MEXICAN GRILL AND CANTINA 151 Bass Pro Drive Broken Arrow 918-355-8877
9455 N. Owasso Expressway Owasso 918-609-8671
loscabosok.com
loscabosok.com
loscabosok.com
Sunday-Thursday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday-Saturday: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.
88 JANUARY 2019
R TO CA
R TO CA
Sunday-Thursday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday-Saturday: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.
LO
LO
CA
TO
R
300 Riverwalk Terrace #100 Jenks 918-298-2226
LOS CABOS MEXICAN GRILL AND CANTINA
LO
from beef or chicken to fish, brisket, or shrimp. All the taco options come with rice and your choice of beans, and they’re all fantastic. The tropical chicken tacos are an extra good choice, made wih three soft corn tortillas loaded with margarita chicken and topped with mixed cheese, red onions and cilantro. The mango pico makes it special, with a bright, tart sweet flavor that perfectly enhances the savory chicken.
the azul
Monday-Thursday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday-Saturday: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday: 10 a.m.-9 p.m.
Where the locals have been going since 1975!
Daily ls Lunch Specia am 11 Open at Saturday Monday thru ay Closed Sund
918.622.2668
www.ricardostulsa.com 5629 E. 41st • Tulsa, OK PREVIEW918.COM 89
MF MASTERS OF FLAVOR
Just because making a sandwich is easy doesn’t mean that making a great sandwich is within everyone’s reach. It takes something special to create a truly transcendent sandwich. Whatever that magic touch may be, Goodcents has it.
Jason Mims
90 JANUARY 2019
By Donna Leahey
Photos by Sarah Eliza Roberts
Imagine a soft, white, fluffy cloud. Now imagine bread as soft, white, and fluffy as that cloud. Picture it loaded with meat and cheese, fresh vegetables, seasonings, and made fresh when you order. And now that you’re hungry, head to Goodcents Deli Fresh Subs in Bixby for the handmade sub of your imagination.
fresh-sliced roast beef, turkey, and ham, topped with your choice of cheese, all served on that cloud-soft bread. “It’s a good value,” says Mims. “It makes Goodcents.” He points to the Penny Man logo on the nearby sign. “Penny Man says make your pennies count.”
Jason Mims knows how to make a sandwich. And a hearty pasta meal. He can set you up with top-notch catering. And finish it off with a sweet cookie. He’s been serving the Tulsa area for the last four years as the owner of Goodcents, but his career in food goes back a lot longer than that.
For something a little toastier and crunchier, check out the toasted subs. These sandwiches take a trip through the oven to get toasty warm and gently browned. The chipotle cheesesteak is a solid choice. It’s loaded with chicken or steak and topped with pepper jack cheese, green pepper, onion, and drizzled with spicy ranch. It’s all the flavor you expect from a cheesesteak with a surprising heat to set it off.
Goodcents vegetables are cut fresh every day, so you don’t have to worry about limp lettuce or soggy cucumbers. The vegetables are crisp and cool and ready to add texture and flavor to your sandwich. All Goodcents sandwiches come with “standard dress,” unless you request otherwise. That’s lettuce, tomato, onion, oregano, salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of oil and vinegar. Standard dress complements Goodcents’ subs perfectly, with that vinegary bite, the crispy lettuce, and the spices adding the perfect finishing touches to the sandwich flavor profile. If you’re not sure what to try first, take a look at the Penny Club. It’s Goodcents’ most popular sub, loaded up with
Be sure to consider Goodcents for any catering needs. “We have lots of trays,” says Mims. “Sandwich trays, decorated cookies. Pasta is a nice change.” You can get sub box lunches, too, which come with a sandwich, cookie, and chips. Goodcents’ catering is a budget-friendly option as well. “I’ll put our prices up next to anybody’s for being affordable for family, churches, and business.” Goodcents has tea and lemonade by the gallon, fresh fruit trays, and whatever you might want for your event. “If you can think it up, I can do it,” he says. “We’re a one-stop shop: plates, napkins, cups, condiments, everything. We even deliver it. We’ve gone to Coweta, downtown, and Sapulpa.” Mims is very active in local schools. “My wife is in the public schools, so we work with them as much as possible,” he says. “We do meals for three or four different sports in area schools.”
GOODCENTS DELI FRESH SUBS 8222 E. 103rd St. | Bixby 918-364-7827 goodcentssubs.com
R
That’s not the only thing that makes a difference. The fresh meats are sliced when you order rather than drying out on deli paper. The meats are high quality deli cuts. The turkey, for instance, has no preservatives, no additives, and was raised with no antibiotics.
PENNY CLUB
For your little ones, Goodcents has a meal that comes with an entree, a drink, and a side. “We’ll tailor the meal to the kid,” says Mims. “I’ll make any sandwich a kid’s sandwich and make it however they like.”
TO
But, about that bread. It’s the first thing you notice when you bite into a Goodcents’ sub. Mims won’t give up the secret of how they make the bread so soft. “It’s proprietary. The dough is made just for Goodcents,” he says. “We do bake twice a day; that makes a difference.”
CHIPOTLE CHEESESTEAK
CA
When he decided to own his own restaurant again, Mims chose Goodcents. “I like them. They’re a very open company. They were realistic with me; upfront and very accessible. We opened four years ago at the end of December. Time flies when you’re having fun.”
On a cold January day, you may be looking for something warmer for lunch. Check out Goodcents’ pasta menu. “Our founder [Joe Bisogno] is Italian, and that’s why we do pasta. He’s big on the Italian flair.” That flair shows in their most popular pasta dish, the chicken Alfredo. The creamy Alfredo complements the generous serving of chicken atop penne pasta, and the whole thing is topped with cheese and browned. It’s a warm and filling way to get through the rest of your day. “The meatballs are good, too,” Mims says. If you prefer marinara over Alfredo, consider the pasta with meatballs.
LO
“I’m a food guy,” says Mims. “I’ve owned and managed restaurants my whole career. My dad’s a veterinarian, in mixed practice, and so I always knew I wanted to be my own boss.” Mims owned another local restaurant a few years ago, sold it, and then set out to learn as much about the food business as possible.
CHICKEN ALFREDO
Monday-Saturday: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
PREVIEW918.COM 91
GK GETTING TO KNOW
Sp a -Tac Instead of trying to be everything to
everyone, Blank Med Spa concentrates on their medical know-how and proven techniques to produce results that make clients happier with their skin.
JESSICA JACOBSON Blank Med Spa is a cool little oasis of skincare and self-care in The Boxyard. Since its grand opening on Sept. 1, 2018, Blank Med Spa has been offering high-end, non-invasive, resultsbased medical skin treatments designed to make clients happier with the issues they have been facing with their skin. Though the idea of skin care may make people think of facials and skin peels at their local salon, Blank Med Spa is grounded in a medical approach to skin care. The staff at Blank Med Spa is trained, certified, and experienced in a variety of cosmetic techniques. Their end goal, says spa manager and esthetician Jessica Jacobson, is helping everyone who steps into the spa “feel as confident as possible, as quickly as possible. Everybody needs to take care of their skin.”
by MICHELE CHIAPPETTA photos by
92 JANUARY 2019
SARAH ELIZA ROBERTS
When Jacobson says everyone, she means everyone — men, women, young and old. But unlike most med spas which draw an older crowd concerned about anti-aging, Blank Med Spa seeks to draw in younger clients too, especially those who work and live in downtown Tulsa. “We feel like it’s important for people to start utilizing these services when they’re younger,” she says.
ular
their skin. The spa’s services are carefully chosen to be the most effective for meeting common skin concerns.
injections, dermal fillers, chemical peels and treatments, dermaplaning, Hydrafacials, and removal of skin tags, freckles and lesions.
The location has also created an interesting challenge — how do you create a spa that feels like an oasis when the space is small? The team at Blank Med Spa has approached it with creativity and comfort.
“Everything we do is really results driven. We carefully picked everything we offer. We wanted everything to give good results, get straight to the point, and fix actual concerns,” says Jacobson. “We’re about helping people achieve their goals. We just strive to help people with stuff that they’re genuinely concerned about and have issues with, without sending them home with a lot of downtime.”
“Our microneedling is really popular,” she says, “because it involves the least amount of downtime — just 48 hours or less of redness. It takes care of so many concerns. Injectables are also popular. So are Hydrafacials, which are one of our most loved treatments. They make the skin glowy and hydrated, which is perfect for special events.”
“We’re in a shipping container, so we’ve had to make everything super-efficient here,” says Jacobson. “But we also work to keep everything high-end and nice-looking. We know people are going to come in here and spend their hard-earned money on fixing real issues and concerns they have, so we want to be as inviting as possible, so that people feel comfortable when they visit.”
Jacobson, Trad, and Woods don’t expect you to take their word for it. They offer visual proof of client results on social media and their website, so you can see for yourself how the treatments can benefit your skin. “We show a lot of before-and-afters of real people and real stories on social media so people can get a feel of the spa and what to expect before they come in,” says Jacobson.
The Boxyard | 502 E. 3rd St., Unit 36 | Tulsa 918-900-2216 blankmedspa.com
R
“All the services we offer for skin care are designed to tackle really severe concerns, such as major melasma [unsightly brown or gray patches on facial skin], severe cystic acne, and sun damage,” says Jacobson. Services include laser treatments, micro-needling, Botox
BLANK MED SPA
TO
Instead of trying to be everything to everyone, Blank Med Spa concentrates on their medical know-how and proven techniques that produce results that make clients happier with
Blank Med Spa can address a wide variety of skin issues that can affect people’s appearance or their confidence — issues such as brown spots, fine lines and wrinkles, acne and related scars, enlarged pores, uneven tone and texture, sun damage and sun spots, lax skin, decreases in collagen, frown lines and laugh lines, hyperpigmentation, and stretch marks.
CA
To meet the needs of downtown’s working crowd, Blank Med Spa aims at providing practical, quick medical skin care approaches that clients can enjoy while not missing out on too many hours at the office. “We’re express skin care,” says Jacobson. “We want to be able to get you in and out, but we also want to be really effective with everything we do. We only offer a few different services just because our whole goal is to make everything short and sweet.”
The spa is open Tuesdays through Saturdays for walk-ins and regular visits, with Mondays set aside for appointments only. Every other Monday night, the spa also offers Botox parties. An RSVP is recommended before you show up. The team at Blank Med Spa can also accommodate private parties. Simply call or visit the spa to learn more.
LO
Establishing the spa at The Boxyard made sense for a lot of reasons to Blank Med Spa’s team — medical director Dr. Jawad Trad, and co-owners Jacobson and Kelley Woods, APRN (who performs injections). “We feel like The Boxyard is a cool, trendy place. It’s really unique,” Jacobson says. “And we like the area because downtown Tulsa is growing a lot.”
GETTING TO KNOW GK
Sunday: Closed Monday: By appointment only Tuesday-Thursday: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday: 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
PREVIEW918.COM 93
SL SHELF LIFE
NONFICTION/MEMOIR
LITERARY/ CONTEMPORARY
ROMANCE/ WOMEN’S FICTION
MYSTERY, THRILLER AND SUSPENSE
JAN. 8
JAN. 29
JAN. 8
JAN. 29
DO WHAT FEELS GOOD: RECIPES, REMEDIES, AND ROUTINES TO TREAT YOUR BODY RIGHT BY HANNAH BRONFMAN
As a woman of color who grew up watching a close family member struggle with an eating disorder, Bronfman has forged her own path and created her own standards of beauty. And what she’s learned is this: healthy is beautiful. And healthy should feel good. She offers real talk about getting in touch with your body’s needs, sharing her story along the way, as well as 50 of her favorite recipes for healthy hedonism (desserts and cocktails included). ALSO LOOK FOR:
AT THE WOLF’S TABLE
THE RED ADDRESS BOOK
THE DEAD EX
Germany, 1943: Twenty-six-year-old Rosa Sauer’s parents are gone, and her husband, Gregor, is far away, fighting on the front lines of WW II. One morning, the SS come to tell her she has been conscripted to Hitler’s tasters: Twice a day, she and nine other women go to his secret headquarters to eat his meals before he does. Forced to eat what might kill them, the tasters begin to divide into The Fanatics, those loyal to Hitler, and the women like Rosa who insist they aren’t Nazis, even as they risk their lives every day for Hitler’s.
Since Doris was a girl, she has carefully kept records of everyone she met and loved. Looking through the little book now that she is 96, Doris is struck by the urge to put pen to paper. As she writes down the stories of her colorful past — working as a maid in Sweden, modelling in Paris during the ‘30s, fleeing to Manhattan at the dawn of WW II — can she help Jenny, haunted by a difficult childhood, unlock the secrets of their family and finally look to the future? And whatever became of Allan, the love of Doris’s life?
Vicki works as an aromatherapist, healing her clients out of her home studio with her special blends of essential oils. She’s just finishing a session when the police arrive on her doorstep — her ex-husband David has gone missing. Vicki insists she last saw him years ago when they divorced, but the police clearly don’t believe her. And her memory’s hardly reliable — what if she did have something to do with it?
BY ROSELLA POSTORINO
BY SOFIA LUNDBERG
BY JANE CORRY
ALSO LOOK FOR:
ALSO LOOK FOR: ALSO LOOK FOR:
TASTE AND SEE BY MARGARET FEINBERG JAN. 22
This culinary exploration of the Bible is a delicious read that includes dozens of recipes for those who, like Feinberg, believe some of life’s richest moments are spent savoring a meal with those you love.
MAID: HARD WORK, LOW PAY, AND A MOTHER’S WILL TO SURVIVE BY STEPHANIE LAND JAN. 22
Land worked for years as a maid, pulling long hours while struggling as a single mom to keep a roof over her daughter’s head. She reveals the dark truth of what it takes to survive and thrive in today’s inequitable society.
94 JANUARY 2019
THE SUSPECT
BY FIONA BARTON
GOLDEN CHILD
BY CLAIRE ADAM JAN. 29
In rural Trinidad, a family’s world shatters when one son, Paul, goes walking in the bush one afternoon and fails to come home.
AN ORCHESTRA OF MINORITIES BY CHIGOZIE OBIOMA JAN. 8
A heart-breaking story about a Nigerian poultry farmer who sacrifices everything to win the woman he loves, giving a contemporary twist of Homer’s Odyssey.
UNTOUCHABLE BY JAYNE ANN KRENTZ
JAN. 22
TURNING POINT
BY DANIELLE STEEL JAN. 8
Four trauma The more arson doctors — the cases investigator best and brightest Jack Lancaster in their field — solves, the closer confront exciting he slips into the new challenges, darkness. His only both personally solace is Winter and professionally, Meadows, a when given an meditation therapist. unusual opportunity After particularly to work with grisly cases, Winter their counterparts can lead Jack back in Paris in a to peace. mass-casualty training program. JAN. 8
When two 18-yearold girls go missing in Thailand, their families are thrust into the international spotlight: desperate, bereft, and frantic with worry. What were the girls up to before they disappeared?
CRUCIBLE
BY JAMES ROLLINS JAN. 22
When Commander Gray Pierce discovers his house ransacked and his pregnant lover missing, his search for answers leads to one of the bloodiest times in history — the Spanish Inquisition and the medieval text known as the Malleus Maleficarum, the Hammer of Witches.
SHELF LIFE SL
SCIENCE FICTION, FANTASY AND HORROR
SELF-HELP AND INSPIRATIONAL
YOUNG ADULT AND MIDDLE GRADE
CHILDREN
JAN. 29 JAN. 29
JAN. 8
JAN. 8
THROUGH FIERY TRIALS BY DAVID WEBER
The unholy war between the realm of Charis and the radical, luddite Church of God’s Awaiting has ended. But even though a provisional veil of peace has fallen over human colonies, the quiet will not last. As international alliances shift and Charis charges on with its precarious mission of global industrialization, the shifting plates of the new world order are bound to clash. And now, buried secrets and prophetic promises come to light, proving time is a merciless warden who never forgets.
SHAMELESS
TWO CAN KEEP A SECRET
Christians are obsessed with sex. But not in a good way. For generations, countless people have suffered pain, guilt, and judgment as a result of this toxic fixation on sex, the body, and physical pleasure. In the follow-up to her celebrated New York Times best-seller Accidental Saints, Bolz-Weber unleashes her critical eye, her sharp pen, and her vulnerable but hopeful soul on the caustic, fear-riddled, and religiously inspired messages about sex that have fed our shame.
Ellery knows all about secrets. Her mother has them; her grandmother does too. And the longer she’s in Echo Ridge, the clearer it becomes that everyone there is hiding something. The thing is, secrets are dangerous and most people aren’t good at keeping them. Which is why in Echo Ridge, it’s safest to keep your secrets to yourself.
BY NADIA BOLZ-WEBER
BY KAREN MCMANUS
HILO BOOK 5: THEN EVERYTHING WENT WRONG BY JUDD WINICK
What really happened in Hilo’s world before he came to Earth? D.J. and our favorite space boy, Hilo, take a dangerous trip to Hilo’s home planet to find out. But everything Hilo thinks he knows about his past is about to be turned inside out and upside down. ALSO LOOK FOR:
ALSO LOOK FOR:
ALSO LOOK FOR: ALSO LOOK FOR:
ABCS OF ENGINEERING PEANUT BUTTER AND JELLY
BY CHRIS FERRIE JAN. 1
From amplifier to zoning, the ABCs JAN. 22 of Engineering is Narwhal’s a colorfully simple obsession with introduction for his new favorite babies — and food leads him grownups — to into hijinks and hilarity in the third a new biology book of this all-star concept for every letter of early graphic the alphabet. novel series. Each page in this engineering primer features multiple levels of text so the book grows along with your little engineer. BY BEN CLANTON
THE MARTIN CHRONICLES
BY JOHN FRIED
THE WITCHES OF THE WINTER OF ST. PETERSBURG THE WITCH BY IMOGEN EDWARDS-JONES JAN. 22
Inspired by real characters, this transporting historical fiction debut spins the fascinating story of two princesses in the Romanov court who practiced black magic, befriended the Tsarina, and invited Rasputin into their lives — forever changing the course of Russian history.
BY KATHERINE ARDEN JAN. 8
The grand prince is in a rage, choosing allies that will lead him on a path to war and ruin. A wicked demon returns, stronger than ever and determined to spread chaos. Caught at the center of the conflict is Vasya, who finds the fate of two worlds resting on her shoulders.
BRAVE LOVE: MAKING SPACE FOR YOU TO BE YOU BY LISA LEONARD JAN. 29
Over the years, the exhaustion of trying to be the perfect wife, mother, and businesswoman took its toll on Leonard. In Brave Love, she shares her story of finding truth and wholeness in the midst of life’s competing demands.
THE HOLY SH!T MOMENT: HOW LASTING CHANGE CAN HAPPEN IN AN INSTANT BY JAMES FELL JAN. 22
Serious life turnaround usually happens in a moment, with a flash of inspiration. Learn how to create a life-changing epiphany and go directly from intention to action.
JAN. 8
A powerful and heartfelt comingof-age novel that follows Martin Kelso as he grows up in 1980s New York and faces the magic of first experiences, as well as the heartbreak of hardwon life lessons.
I SURVIVED THE BATTLE OF D-DAY BY LAUREN TARSHIS JAN. 29
In commemoration of the 75th anniversary of D-Day, Tarshis shines a spotlight on the story of the Normandy landings, the largest seaborne invasion in history and foundation for the Allied victory in WW II.
Release dates are subject to change.
PREVIEW918.COM 95
S SHOWTIME
JAN. 11
JAN. 18
JAN. 25
JAN. 4 ELI
A boy receiving treatment for his auto-immune disorder discovers that the house he’s living isn’t as safe as he thought. Cast: Charlie Shotwell, Lili Taylor, Sadie Sink RATING: R
THE UPSIDE
A comedic look at the relationship between a wealthy quadriplegic and an unemployed man with a criminal record who is hired to help him. Cast: Bryan Cranston, Kevin Hart, Nicole Kidman RATING: PG-13
GLASS
Following the conclusion of Split, David Dunn pursues Kevin Wendell Crumb’s superhuman persona of The Beast in a series of escalating encounters while the shadowy presence of Elijah Price, going by Mr. Glass, emerges as an orchestrator who holds secrets critical to both men. Cast: Bruce Willis, James McAvoy, Samuel L. Jackson
SERENITY
The mysterious past of a fishing boat captain comes back to haunt him when his ex-wife tracks him down with a desperate plea for help, ensnaring his life in a new reality that may not be all that it seems. Cast: Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway, Diane Lane RATING: R
MISS BALA
RATING: PG-13
Gloria finds a power she never knew she had when she is drawn into a dangerous world of crossborder crime. Surviving will require all of her cunning, inventiveness, and strength. Cast: Gina Rodriguez, Ismael Cruz Cordova, Anthony Mackie
ESCAPE ROOM
Six strangers are invited to compete in a series of immersive escape rooms. However, when they discover that whoever leaves the room last will die, they must use their wits to survive. Cast: Taylor Russell, Logan Miller, Deborah Ann Woll RATING: PG-13
AD ASTRA
Twenty years after his father left on a one-way mission to Neptune in order to find signs of extraterrestrial intelligence, Roy McBride, an Army Corps engineer travels through the solar system to find him and understand why his mission failed. Cast: Brad Pitt, Tommy Lee Jones, Ruth Negga
RATING: PG-13
RATING: NR
THE HEIRESSES
STATE LIKE SLEEP
A woman grapples with the consequences of her celebrity husband’s double life after he commits suicide. Cast: Luke Evans, Katherine Waterston, Michael Shannon RATING: NR
A DOG’S WAY HOME
A dog embarks on a 400-mile journey home after she is separated from her owner, Lucas, who is an aspiring medical student. Cast: Ashley Judd, Edward James Olmos, Alexandra Shipp RATING: PG
96 JANUARY 2019
Chela and Chiquita are both descended from wealthy families in Asunción and have been together for over 30 years. But recently, their financial situation has worsened and they begin selling off their inherited possessions. But when their debts lead to Chiquita being imprisoned on fraud charges, Chela is forced to face a new reality. Driving for the first time in years, she begins to provide a local taxi service to a group of elderly wealthy ladies. As Chela settles into her new life, she encounters the much younger Angy, forging a fresh and invigorating new connection. Chela finally begins to break out of her shell and engage with the world, embarking on her own personal, intimate revolution. Cast: Ana Brun, Margarita Irun, Ana Ivanova RATING: NR
THE KID WHO WOULD BE KING
Alex is a young boy who is picked on at school and does not appear to be very special at all. However, that soon changes when he finds and pulls King Arthur’s famous sword Excalibur from a stone. He discovers that he is destined to form a new round table for an upcoming battle with the medieval villain Morgana, who summons evil forces to rule the world. The wizard Merlin assists Alex in his quest. Cast: Louis Ashbourne, Patrick Stewart, Rebecca Ferguson RATING: PG NR = A rating was not available as of Dec. 20, 2018
Release dates and ratings are subject to change.
JAN. 17 THE TRAGEDY OF KING RICHARD THE SECOND PRESENTED BY NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE Richard II, King of England, is irresponsible, foolish and vain. His weak leadership sends his kingdom into disarray and his court into uproar. Seeing no other option but to seize power, the ambitious Bolingbroke challenges the throne and the king’s divine right to rule.
SEE WEBSITE FOR SHOWTIMES
SHOPLIFTERS After one of their shoplifting sessions, Osamu and his son come across a little girl in the freezing cold. At first reluctant to shelter the girl, Osamu’s wife agrees to take care of her after learning of the hardships she faces.
OPENS JAN. 11
JAN. 18-19 AKIRA A secret military project endangers Neo-Tokyo when it turns a biker gang member into a rampaging psychic psychopath that only two teenagers and a group of psychics can stop.
JAN. 25-26
LOCATOR ADMIRAL TWIN DRIVE-IN 7355 E. Easton St. Tulsa 918.878.8099 AMC SOUTHROADS 20 4923 E. 41st St. Tulsa 888.AMC.4FUN B&B CLAREMORE 8 1407 W. Country Club Claremore 918.342.2422 B&B CINEMA 8 1245 New Sapulpa Road Sapulpa 918.227.7469 CINEMARK BROKEN ARROW 1801 E. Hillside Drive Broken Arrow 918.355.0427 CINEMARK SAND SPRINGS 1112 E. Charles Page Blvd. Sand Springs 800.FAN.DANG (#1407) CINEMARK TULSA 10802 E. 71st S. Tulsa 800.FAN.DANG (#1128)
MARY QUEEN OF SCOTS Mary Stuart’s attempt to overthrow her cousin Elizabeth I, Queen of England, finds her condemned to years of imprisonment before facing execution.
CIRCLE CINEMA 10 S. Lewis Ave. Tulsa 918.592.3456 ETON SQUARE 6 CINEMA 8421 E. 61st St. Tulsa 918.286.2618
ON THE BASIS OF SEX The story of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, her struggles for equal rights and what she had to overcome in order to become a U.S. Supreme Court Justice.
JAN. 12
VICE Vice explores how a bureaucratic Washington insider quietly became the most powerful man in the world as vice president to George W. Bush, reshaping the country and the globe in ways still felt today.
SHOWTIME S
ELLA CINDERS (1926) Poor Ella Cinders is much abused by her evil step-mother and step-sisters. When she wins a local beauty contest she jumps at the chance to get out of her dead-end life and go to Hollywood, where she is promised a job in the movies. When she arrives in Hollywood, she discovers that the contest was a scam and the job nonexistent. But through pluck, luck, and talent, she makes it in the movies anyway, and finds true love.
REGAL PROMENADE PALACE 4107 S. Yale Ave. Tulsa 800.326.3264 THE ‘BURBS An overstressed suburbanite and his fellow neighbors are convinced that the new family on the block are part of a murderous satanic cult.
JAN. 31 I’M NOT RUNNING FROM NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE Pauline Gibson has spent her life as a doctor, the inspiring leader of a local health campaign. When she crosses paths with her old boyfriend, a stalwart loyalist in Labor Party politics, she’s faced with an agonizing decision.
AMC CLASSIC OWASSO 12601 E. 86th St. N. Owasso 918.376.9191 STARWORLD 20 10301 S Memorial Drive Tulsa 918.369.7475 WARREN BROKEN ARROW 18 1700 W. Aspen Creek Drive Broken Arrow 918.893.9798
Check Circle Cinema website for times, costs, additional events and more details. Release dates, showings and ratings are subject to change.
PREVIEW918.COM 97
B BROOKSIDE
sushi with a pulse! fresh sushi + incredible kitchen entrees + great happy hour + live music (on Brookside) + sunset views (on the hill) on the hill 918.524.0063 brookside 918.744.1300 broken arrow 918.893.6111 call 918.671.0606 for catering
98 JANUARY 2019
Tulsa’s favorite
reserve your stay in paradise today Endless gaming excitement
Two casinos under one roof– River Spirit® & Margaritaville®
Fine-dining excellence
The only Ruth’s Chris® Steak House in Oklahoma
Luxurious Spa & Salon
Pamper yourself in our relaxing retreat
Beautiful river views Luxurious resort hotel
Caribbean-style pool Soak up some sun
Awesome live music
5 o’Clock Somewhere® Bar, Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville®, Paradise Cove Theater
8330 RIVERSIDE PARK WAY TULSA , OK 74137 888-748-3731 • RIVERSPIRIT TULSA .COM
PROUD RECIPIENT OF