Aging well requires thoughtful choices. We offer some tips on how to balance activity, diet and social engagement in order to enjoy life’s simple pleasures without compromising your well-being.
Healthy and Active Living
Staying physically active is crucial as one ages, but it’s equally important to avoid overexertion.
“Research shows that moderate, consistent exercise improves cardiovascular health, reduces the risk of falls and helps manage chronic conditions like arthritis and diabetes,” says Hifza Butt, M.D., a fellowship-trained internal medicine physician with OU Health Physicians specializing in geriatrics.
Low-impact exercises like walking, swimming or yoga can improve cardiovascular health, strength and flexibility without straining joints. Incorporating light resistance training can help maintain muscle mass, which naturally declines with age.
“Programs like walking clubs or senior yoga classes can provide both fitness and social engagement, which is key to long-term adherence,” Butt says.
Remember to listen to your body, and rest and recover when needed to prevent injuries.
Indulging Without Guilt
Enjoying life’s pleasures, such as a lazy day on the couch or savoring rich foods, is possible with balance and mindfulness. A sedentary day can be countered by light movement or stretching to maintain circulation.
When it comes to food, focus on moderation. Incorporate nutrient-dense options alongside occasional indulgences. Instead of cutting out treats entirely, try smaller portions and healthier cooking methods to enjoy guilt-free dining.
“In general, we need to remember that most things in moderation will not hurt one’s overall health,” says Seki A. Balogun, M.D., OU Health geriatrician and Donald W. Reynolds professor of medicine at the OU College of Medicine. “A key part of health is also to pay attention to how we feel and what gives us joy.”
Workout and Diet Do’s and Don’ts
For seniors, exercise should focus on maintaining functionality and preventing injury.
Do: Embrace activities that support balance, coordination and flexibility, like Tai Chi. Follow a diet rich in fiber, lean protein, healthy fats, and vitamins.
Don’t: Engage in high-impact workouts that may strain joints or lead to falls. Similarly, steer clear of restrictive fad diets; they often lack essential nutrients needed for aging bodies.
“Older adults can engage in any exercise modality or workout including aerobics, weight training and balance exercises,” says Balogun. “It is also important to gradually introduce or increase any new exercise regimen gradually in a stepwise approach to reduce the risk of injury.”
The Importance of Socialization
Social connections significantly impact senior health. Regular interactions can reduce the risk of depression, cognitive decline and even chronic diseases. Activities like joining community groups, volunteering or simply spending time with loved ones enhance emotional well-being and physical health. Conversely, isolation can lead to increased stress and negative health outcomes.
“Social connectedness has been shown to lower the risk of depression, cognitive decline, and even mortality,” says Butt. “Studies indicate that seniors with strong social networks are more likely to remain physically active and less likely to develop chronic diseases.”
Mesa Boutique Salon in Tulsa is one of many companies that offers expert color analysis to its clients. Photos courtesy Mesa Boutique Salon
Most people have certain colors they gravitate towards when choosing their clothing, but did you know there’s usually a reason behind this predilection? The combination of the colors we wear, our skin tone and our hair color can make or break whether an outfit complements our overall look or causes us to look washed out. This is where color analysis comes in.
“A color analysis is a custom color palette or series of colors that enhance or soften your natural features,” says Macy Dunkelberg, owner and stylist at Mesa Boutique Salon in Tulsa, which offers this service to its clients. “We use a company called Rivers and Rose Styling Co. for the 12-season color analysis. We schedule these classes once a month.”
According to Dunkelberg, taking the time to get a professional color analysis is advantageous for several reasons. “Confidence, approachability and the surety of knowing what to wear” are just a few, she says. “It’s a game-changer for shopping, makeup and for me being a salon owner and hairstylist. I color my clients’ hair to match their season, knowing they are going to love it.”
Mesa Boutique Salon in Tulsa is one of many companies that offers expert color analysis to its clients. Photos courtesy Mesa Boutique Salon
The most common color analysis technique revolves around the seasons – meaning that you’ll end up either a spring, summer, fall or winter. Spring colors are warm and light; summer’s are cool and light; fall’s are warm and deep; and winter’s are cool and deep. If you are fair-skinned and blonde, odds are you are a summer, while if you have darker skin and/or brunette or black hair, you’ll more likely be in fall or winter. However, the experts know best – and can save you time, money and the grief of buying and returning items because you don’t like the way they look on you.
Aside from the colors you wear, people overlook the value of the proper hair color for their skin tone, as well.
“Hair is so important and something you ‘wear’ every day,” says Dunkelberg. “I have fallen in love with doing hair all over again using this as my tool and guide for my clients that have their colors done. My goal is for everyone to have it done and gain a new confidence in the surety it truly gives.”
If you want to experiment with color analysis at home, the internet has a wealth of information. For example, whowhatwear.com offers a few trials to try, including a filter with four color palettes to decide which filter you like best.
One simple trick the website suggests is to hold a swatch of orange and a swatch of fuchsia fabrics up to your face. If you love the way your skin tone and hair match orange, your colors should be warm. If fuchsia, on the other hand, is a must-have, opt for a cooler color palette. If it is difficult for you to choose a tone that works, delve a little deeper into the process or turn to an expert for help. It is up to you to decide how far to take your magic colors.
Tishomingo, Oklahoma, is the kind of place where your possibilities are endless. You might run into country music superstar Blake Shelton at his bar and nighttime hotspot, Ole Red Tishomingo. You may find intriguing artifacts at world-class museums, or wander the Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge. The town is also the Chickasaw Nation’s historic capital and the heart of the Blue River, home to destination-level trout-fishing.
Visitors can’t help but notice the picturesque Heffington Waterwheel, prominent as a Main Street attraction. It was commissioned about 15 years ago by longtime resident, real estate businessman and former Chamber of Commerce executive director Seigel Heffington – who can’t say for sure, but believes it’s likely the only active waterwheel in the country that’s a main street destination spot.
“I modeled it after the water wheel in downtown Estes Park, Colorado,” says Heffington. “I swore if I ever built an office that I’d put a waterwheel in, and I did. I ordered it from an elderly gentleman in West Virginia who makes them for a living.It’s become a real neat little attraction, especially when Miranda Lambert was here with her store, and everyone would come to see her and stand in front of my wheel.
“And little kids love it; they’ll turn back and toss a coin over their shoulders to make a wish, and the money goes to the 4H Club. In the spring, I will have extensive work on it, as it’s rolled for 14 years straight, and I need to get it ready for summertime.”
Blue River Camping sites (main image) and Tishomingo Wildlife Refuge (above) are two of many draws to this southern Oklahoma town. Photos courtesy their respective venue
Locals and visitors alike appreciate the stirring nature of the Johnston County War Memorial, which is a series of granite markers in honor of Johnston County natives who died defending the nation in U.S. military engagements across history.
Prominent among the displays are the ‘can’t miss it’ sight of a restored Blue Angel flight demonstration jet flown by Navy Lt. Commander Clarence O. “Smokey” Tolbert, listed MIA in 1972 in Vietnam. Just across, there is a Howitzer tank from the Korean-Vietnam era said to have a firing range of 19 miles.
A picturesque destination itself, family-ran Old Silo Winery and Vineyards produces Oklahoma wines made and bottled in small batches. The winery offers a tasting room and is a part of Oklahoma agritourism as it accommodates special events and groups up to 20 people.
Located near the winery is Blue River Bells, a ‘glamping’ destination with large and comfortable rentalable tents, outfitted with mattresses and many amenities including air conditioning and heaters upon request, a coffee station, a mini fridge, ample games, a rack of firewood for the firepit and fully functioning bathrooms.
Additional Tishomingo attractions include Stone Bed and Breakfast, a golf course, Spa 211, antique shopping at Junk Stars and local favorites eateries including Nacho Mama’s Casa, Blue River Ribs, Fish Tales and, of course, Black Shelton’s Ole Red.
Dermatologists, plastic surgeons, physician assistants and other aesthetic experts discuss what’s trending in the field, tips for the best injectable experience and why anti-aging efforts are starting younger and younger.
What’s In: Regenerative Aesthetics
As individuals continue to desire a more youthful appearance with minimally invasive treatments,‘regenerative aesthetics’ provides an optimal solution. This term encompasses a variety of nonsurgical treatments that promote a natural-looking appearance while using new technologies to maximize the body’s own healing process.
Cristie Lehr-Hawkins, M.D., with Fig Medical Spa in Tulsa, says patients are wanting a natural look that enhances their existing features.
“What’s trending is a more integrative approach, utilizing biostimulators with traditional lasers and other aesthetic treatments,” she says. “The result is having customized treatments work together to benefit the skin and achieve natural, long-lasting beauty. A newer aesthetic treatment we’re using is Cellenis DermaFiller. This technology uses the patient’s own plasma to help restore volume and achieve a more youthful appearance.”
She also sees a more proactive approach to aesthetics.
“The younger generation is wanting to preserve their youthful appearance by utilizing a combination of treatments such as neuromodulators and lasers with subtle dermal fillers and integrative skin care,” she says.
Kasey L. Swayden, PA-C, of Radiance Medical Aesthetics of Oklahoma in OKC, says regenerative aesthetics is rapidly expanding, and the future lies in exosome therapy, peptides, laser and light devices, and collagen stimulating injectables.
“When it comes to beauty and aesthetics, the natural approach is taking center stage,” she says. “Exosomes are at the forefront of the trend. Exosomes carry messages between cells and promote healing, skin health, collagen stimulation and hair growth. At Radiance, we use [plated] exosomes. which is unique because it is the only exosome therapy derived from platelets.”
Swayden says they use these products in three ways: as a post-procedure treatment to speed up recovery time and enhance results, as a treatment for hair loss, and as a take-home skin treatment.
Cathleen LeBeau, PA-C, with Utica Square Skin Care Clinic in Tulsa, says Thermage, a deep collagen stimulating therapy, has gained interest as more people are noticing its effects on celebrities – and because it’s an incision-free procedure with no downtime.
“The MOXI laser is also one of our more popular treatments, especially for younger women developing fine lines and unwanted pigmentation,” says LeBeau. “Women are seeking treatments at younger and younger ages, and it’s a great option to help with the fine lines they’re beginning to notice. With its mild laser resurfacing, it reduces pore size and helps lift pigment caused from sun damage in their youth.”
Swayden says with the advances in technology and techniques, lasers and lights are for everyone – not just lighter skin tones. And the results achieved are remarkable.
“While injectables like Botox and filler will always have their place in the industry and are an incredible complement to laser and light treatments, they can’t deliver the collagen stimulation and the comprehensive skin transformation most patients expect today,” she says.
Blepharoplasties
An upper and lower eye lift – known as a blepharoplasty procedure – is an excellent option for anyone wanting to rejuvenate their eye area or improve impaired vision due to lax upper eyelid skin, says Lesley Landis, M.D., plastic and reconstructive surgeon with Landis Plastic Surgery in Tulsa. In fact, she says it’s one of the most common surgeries performed by plastic surgeons.
“These surgeries have become even more popular as people participate in Zoom meetings and are critiquing their facial appearance,” says Landis. “Also, issues like lower eyelid bags and wrinkling skin can prematurely age a patient. Most blepharoplasties in my practice are done for cosmetic reasons, but insurance may cover an upper blepharoplasty if patients have significant skin laxity that covers the eyelashes.”
She says an upper blepharoplasty is an in-office procedure with local anesthesia and requires minimal downtime, while a lower blepharoplasty is typically performed in an operating room with sedation and takes seven to 10 days to recover.
“The incisions heal remarkably well, and patients are delighted at their refreshed appearance,” says Landis.
Injectables: What to Know
Injectables, such as dermal fillers, can help keep skin looking healthy and reduce fine lines and wrinkles. But before making an appointment, there are a few things you should consider to ensure a successful treatment.
“Certain precautions should be taken when receiving dermal fillers,” says LeBeau. “Because we’re injecting hyaluronic acid gel into the skin to provide more support and facial structure, we want it to integrate well. With that in mind, we always ask our patients if they’ve been sick, which includes respiratory infections, flu, sinus infections or UTIs. If the patient has been sick, then we want to wait until they’ve been healthy for two weeks before doing a procedure – as well as waiting two weeks after receiving a vaccine.”
Marble statue of Aphrodite;
Roman, 1st or 2nd century CE.
Photo courtesy the Metropolitan
Museum of Art
The purpose, she says, is to avoid the body having an inflammatory reaction to the filler.
“It rarely happens, but we’re very cautious and we don’t want any adverse reactions,” says LeBeau. “This also applies if you’ve recently been to the dentist for routine cleaning or had a major dental procedure, because during those appointments, oral bacteria has the potential to be circulated and to cause a reaction.”
Also, for individuals who may be taking medications, ranging from ibuprofen or naproxen to fish oil that may act as a blood thinner, you should stop taking it a few days before a treatment to minimize bruising. Or, if you’re prone to getting oral fever blisters, then you should proactively take an antiviral medicine, especially if you’re receiving injections near the mouth.
“We also recommend waiting to fly,” says LeBeau. “We had a patient become very bruised when she flew the same day as receiving her filler treatment, and it was due to the change in cabin pressure during the flight.”
In general, LeBeau says if you’re wanting a certain look for an upcoming event, make plans to receive a treatment a month or two beforehand.
“Patients typically have some swelling and depending on the type of filler, it takes a little time for it to integrate into your skin tissues,” she says. “I always encourage patients to live with their treatments for three to six months before adding more to really see the full effects.”
Breast Implant Innovation
Breast implant patients are requesting a more natural or ‘fit’ appearance, says Landis.
“This can be achieved through a breast augmentation with smaller implants, which gives fullness and improves shape without necessarily increasing the size dramatically,” she says. “Patients like that they can fit into swimsuits or clothing more comfortably but still lead an active lifestyle.”
Another surgery that’s become popular is a breast lift with fat grafting.
“For women that are happy with the volume of their breasts but dislike their saggy appearance, an implant may not be necessary,” she says. “Lifting the breast gives a better shape and fat can be liposuctioned from one area of the body and injected into the breast to enhance the shape even further.”
She also says breast reductions are in higher demand.
“Thanks to social media, patients are more informed than ever about their options for breast surgery,” says Landis. “Women with large breasts can have neck pain, rashes and difficulty fitting into clothing. A breast reduction can definitively improve these symptoms and restore a woman’s confidence. These are my happiest patients!”
What’s Trending in Plastic Surgery
Ivan Wayne, M.D., plastic and reconstructive surgeon of W Facial Aesthetics in Oklahoma City, says patients seeking a facelift are trending younger, choosing to take more preventative steps to maintain a youthful glow.
“Around 40 is when deflation and descent of the cheek fat starts to occur,” says Wayne. “Doing a facelift at an early age can produce some really dramatic results as the tissues still have good elasticity. When patients look at the money and time invested in non-surgical treatments, they are choosing to do one intervention that looks great and lasts for years.”
And while there are many less invasive procedures on the market, nothing replaces the reliable results of a facelift, says Landis.
“Minor procedures like thread lifts often deliver temporary results, and lasers address superficial skin issues like discoloration or mild wrinkles,” she says. “Some newer devices like Morpheus8 can tighten the skin to some degree and are great for younger patients or those with minimal skin laxity. Some minimally invasive options can delay when a facelift is ultimately needed or be used in conjunction with surgery – however, a facelift is the gold standard to restore a more youthful shape to the face, decrease deep wrinkles, smooth jowls and streamline the jawline. It does not fundamentally change your appearance and can look very natural.”
Wayne also says lift lips are trending and there’s been significant advancements in rhinoplasty.
“A lift lip procedure shortens the upper lip, dramatically improving the appearance of the lips, and creates the desirable ‘pout,’” says Wayne. “Rhinoplasty surgery to reduce the size and enhance the shape of the nose has dramatically improved with a technique called ‘preservation rhinoplasty.’ This complete re-thinking of traditional rhinoplasty surgery has better, more natural results, with faster healing and less chances of problems down the road.”
Also of note is that with widespread use of GLP-1 weight loss medications, more people are wanting to address their sagging facial skin – a side effect that’s been coined the ‘Ozempic face.’ But Wayne says patients aren’t complaining. Instead they’re so happy with the results of the drugs that a face and/or neck lift is simply a part of the journey.
Cutting-edge research, conferences and community partnerships ensure faculty and staff at the University of Oklahoma remain on top of their professional development goals. Photo courtesy OU
Striving for and obtaining a higher education degree is rewarding and surely worth the effort – but can also be expensive and overwhelming. Luckily, leadership at area colleges and universities are determined to help students succeed, no matter their academic goals. We talk with experts across the state about the pros and cons of standardized testing scores for admissions, alongside budding AI integration technology, how quantum computing is evolving and becoming more accessible for education, ways colleges are ensuring their educators are staying sharp, and strategic majors for the best possible employment outcomes.
Professional Development
Education is, of course, about the students, but it is also about the educators themselves. And in a very drastically changing educational landscape, it’s imperative that educators have the tools they need to succeed. Teachers in 2025 are focusing on professional development to hone new skills, remain sharp and deepen their understanding of effective instruction.
The University of Oklahoma Jeannine Rainbolt College of Education watches the trends in the industry and, at times, sets those trends with cutting-edge research, says Stacy Reeder, Ph.D., the college’s dean.
“We’re always holding or attending conferences and staying in conversation with our faculty and leadership, who are also part of boards and journals and myriad other ways of professional development,” she says. “We have incredibly strong partnerships with the communities and advisory boards we serve.”
OU’s college of education houses about a dozen centers – and all of them have an outreach mission as well as research components.
“One example is the Gear Up Projects in partnership with OKC Public Schools, as well as a $80 million dollar grant with rural middle schools,” says Reeder. “Our centers are bringing in funds our state wouldn’t normally have, and we’re pushing to invest in our public school system for our students, teachers and leaders across the board.”
At Northeastern State University, a new development is centered solely on staff and faculty success.
“NSU has onboarded a new Center for Faculty Support and Advancement to help faculty achieve their teaching and scholarly goals,” says Carla Swearingen, Ph.D., the university’s provost and vice president for academic affairs. “The university also coordinates professional development through NSU Online, which provides training and mentoring in all things related to teaching technology. Each year, NSU provides funding for faculty to attend professional development events off campus as well.”
And at Oklahoma City Community College, the Center for Learning and Teaching (CLT) is “dedicated to investing and enhancing faculty professional development,” says Liz Largent, Ph.D., vice president for academic affairs. “The CLT team, comprised of instructional designers and educational technology specialists, collaborate to create high-quality training opportunities. To stay at the forefront of educational innovation, the CLT invests in its own staff development, including attendance at global ed-tech conferences. This ensures that the latest trends in technology and pedagogy are integrated into the training offerings.”
At Rogers State University, educators are carefully balancing the human element of teaching with artificial intelligence to create dynamic, streamlined and fully immersive courses. Photo courtesy RSU
AI Integrations
Artificial intelligence (AI) applications in higher education evolve daily.
AI offers tools to streamline operations, enhance learning and improve accessibility, says R. Curtis Sparling, Ed.D., department head and assistant professor at Rogers State University. School officials “are fully aware that its implementation requires careful balance to preserve the human touch that defines impactful university learning experiences,” he says. “AI-powered tools can automate routine tasks such as student enrollment, timetable scheduling and resource allocation, reducing administrative burdens while improving efficiency.”
Learning management systems (LMS) play a large role as well, “providing features that help organize classes, track assignments and monitor student progress,” says Sparling. “Our LMS integrates many AI-driven capabilities, allowing faculty to allocate more time toward fostering critical thinking and facilitating applied learning experiences.”
AI integrations can also help play a role in student success.
“The predictive analytics embedded in our LMS further enhance student support by analyzing attendance patterns, grades and behavior to identify at-risk students, allowing for timely interventions,” says Sparling. “These tools allow professors to take a proactive approach while maintaining a personal connection with our learners.”
At the University of Tulsa, provost George Justice, Ph.D., says they are “just scratching the surface of the potential for artificial intelligence. Some of our university leaders are using a secure AI tool to experiment with these opportunities,” he says.
But, Justice advises, “the human touch is necessary for all aspects of education – even online courses, which use adaptive tools powered by AI. Some disciplines – particularly engineering and business – use AI directly and make it an object of study. For others, including health sciences, it’s an amazing tool. But for some disciplines, which focus on helping students to learn to think in complex ways, artificial intelligence is challenging faculty to create ‘AI-proof’ assignments that focus more closely on critical thinking as opposed to producing facts.”
Sparling agrees, and says AI has its limitations.
“Overreliance on AI can result in decisions driven solely by data, potentially overlooking personal or contextual factors such as socioeconomic challenges,” he says. “Similarly, excessive classroom use of AI tools can diminish opportunities for collaboration, creativity and applied learning. When implemented thoughtfully, however, AI can transform school operations, student support, and class organization while preserving the empathy and creativity that are central to university education.”
Quantum Computing
It doesn’t get more cutting edge than considering the applications of quantum computing – and area universities are taking on that mission full-force.
“Quantum computing is a novel way of doing computing, or ‘processing information.’ It replaces the binary bit with the qubit – based on subatomic particles – as the fundamental processing element,” says John Hale, Ph.D., chair of the TU’s Tandy School of Computer Science. “Bits can take on values of 1 or 0, while qubits offer a much more rich and complex state representation. Programming with qubits yields algorithms of a fundamentally different nature that, in many cases, can operate much more efficiently and quickly than their classical counterparts.”
These advancements are shifting the quantum computing landscape in a variety of ways, Hale shares.
At TU, many programs have test-optional admission requirements. However, leadership understands the value of standardized test scores to help level the playing field in terms of admission. Photo courtesy TU
“This new potential may be a game changer for what is possible in cyber security – more powerful code making and breaking – artificial intelligence – faster machine-learning processing – and bioinformatics – drug discovery,” he says. “However, the science and engineering is still in its infancy, and the equipment is fragile and expensive. Still, computer science programs must adapt their curricula to prepare graduates for the day when ‘quantum computing’ will just be called ‘computing.’”
TU is on the forefront of that mission, Hale says.
“UTulsa is in the process of acquiring a quantum computer for educational purposes, and will develop specialty courses for those students interested in the topic,” he says. “These courses will expose our students to the underlying theory, give them an opportunity to program a quantum computer, and explore and imagine applications in their fields of interest.”
Rad Alrifai, Ph.D., is a professor of computer science at NSU. He agrees that quantum computing is still in its early days, with current models being limited due to high costs. However, he still works to integrate educational components of the computing process into his lesson plans.
“In preparing for my classes, I encountered quantum computing concepts in courses related to machine learning, cybersecurity and other computer science courses, such as data structures and algorithms analysis, computer architecture and parallel computing,” he says. “For example, quantum computing has the potential for creating advanced encryption algorithms and optimizing AI models. Some universities are actively researching quantum computing, while a few also include it into teaching.”
Standardized Testing for Admissions: The Pros and Cons
In a world with ever-evolving avenues for information and self-development, more and more colleges are starting to recognize that standardized test scores are not always indicative of someone’s true intelligence and potential. Tulsa Community College is one such institution.
“As an open-access institution, TCC does not require students who have graduated from an accredited high school to have a standardized test score for admission,” says Eileen Kenney, the school’s associate vice president of enrollment and retention. “ACT and SAT scores can be used to ensure we’re placing students in the right level of courses, but again, they are not required. If a student does not have ACT or SAT scores, we can also look at a combination of GPA and/or an internal placement test known as the Accuplacer to guide us in advising our students on what courses to take.”
Oklahoma Panhandle State University takes on similar guidelines for admissions, says Charla Lewis, Ed.D., OPSU’s vice president of academic affairs.
“OPSU is an open admission school,” she says. “Standardized test scores are not required for admittance, but they can be used to place students in the correct general education courses. We use essays in our application to apply for academic scholarships along with GPA.”
At TU, the value of the standardized test is still kept in mind alongside myriad other admission guidelines.
“The University of Tulsa is still test-optional for many programs, but our university leadership believes that standardized tests can help us level the playing field in terms of admission to the institution – the original purpose for which those tests were created,” says Justice.
Curriculum: How Is It Managed?
From major universities to small colleges, curriculum management keeps educators continually striving to give their students the best instruction possible. But how much work goes into creating and approving these lesson plans?
“University faculty rightly have strong autonomy in the classroom, with their courses and their evaluation of students,” says TU’s Justice. “The University of Tulsa is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, the premier accreditation agency in the country, and many disciplines are accredited by the national organizations dedicated to their subject matter. Administration at the university does look at grade ranges across the university to make sure things are fair across departments, and we talk to professors whose grades seem outside the norm for the high quality of our students.”
At OPSU, Lewis says, “the curriculum approval process is involved. Department chairs take the lead on curriculum management. When they want to make a change, they take the changes to the curriculum committee (made up of deans and department chairs across the university) along with justifications for the changes. The committee will vote to approve or deny the proposed changes. If the changes are approved by the committee, they are presented to our A&M board of regents for their consideration. If the A&M board approves, then the changes are presented to the OSRHE for their consideration. Any substantive changes are then presented to our accrediting body. Once approved, the new curriculum is noted in the catalog.”
At NSU, the curriculum approval process is equally rigorous, says Swearingen.
“Programs are only approved if they meet a student need, show positive market potential and fit within our mission,” she says.
OCCC’s academic programs have a mapped curriculum in which courses are aligned with introduction, application and mastery of skills. Examples of program outcome data include graduation rates, exams, pass rate and employment rates, says Largent.
Professors are ensuring they’re hitting all benchmarks while still providing a varied, dynamic education at TCC.
“Faculty survey their courses each semester to gain student feedback on their experience in the class,” says Angela Sivadon, Ph.D., senior vice president and chief academic officer. “Many faculty also conduct ongoing assessments throughout the semester to determine if students are successfully meeting the established learning outcomes.”
Strategic Majors: Helping Students Succeed
Majors matter, and schools track trends and feedback to deliver what the market demands.
“The hottest fields are often believed to be in engineering, technology and health science,” says TU’s Justice. “However, everything from business to the liberal arts can be ‘lucrative’ when students are put in the best position to succeed.”
NSU, a regional institution, is “focused on meeting the workforce needs of our area and the state of Oklahoma,” says Swearingen. “Of the 100 critical occupations elucidated by the state, NSU has degrees for over 60 of these, ranging all the way from certificates to bachelors and masters’ degrees.”
At OCCC, president Mautra Staley Jones, Ed.D., says many of the school’s majors lead to jobs in fields identified on the Oklahoma Critical Occupations list, “contributing to the workforce in strategic areas of need across the state and the nation,” she says. “Additionally, students have opportunities to obtain a micro-credential qualification, focused on specific professional or career disciplines. Micro-credentials consist of up to nine hours of credit courses that provide specific career critical knowledge, skills and abilities that can be easily transferred to the workforce.”
Some majors are more popular and in demand by employers than others, and “some of TCC’s most popular majors are in healthcare, early childhood development, engineering and engineering technology,” says Sivadon. “All these career fields are in need of employees.”
Northeastern State University is focused on producing graduates who can meet the workforce needs of the region and Oklahoma at large. Photo courtesy NSU
Apprenticeships & Internships
Apprenticeships can offer hands-on learning and networking opportunities – and Oklahoma colleges and ensuring their students are getting their foot in the door.
Lindsey Mastin, M.Ed., career advisor and assistant director of the OU Career Center, says colleges can connect students with apprenticeships and internships through several effective strategies including career center offices; career management platforms like Handshake; on-campus career fairs, employer networking events; and via integration with academic programs in which “colleges can embed experiential learning into their curriculum by offering internship or service-learning opportunities for academic credit,” she says. “This approach ensures students gain practical experience as part of their degree requirements. These strategies not only connect students with opportunities, but also help them gain practical experience that bridges the gap between academics and the workplace.”
Mark Hays, director of career retention and programs at TCC, says “the biggest advantage of an internship is the opportunity for students to gain work experience that can really stand out on a resume. For employers, they can use the internship as a tool to build their future workforce. Approximately 60% of community college students who work in an internship end up going to work full-time for that company. The internship helps the employer cut down on recruiting costs and offers a try-out period to see if the student and employer are a good fit for each other.”
Main image cutline: Cutting-edge research, conferences and community partnerships ensure faculty and staff at the University of Oklahoma remain on top of their professional development goals. Photo courtesy OU
The Private School Guide presents an easy-to-understand chart that highlights several private elementary, middle and high schools in Tulsa and OKC. Explore student/teacher ratios, tuition rates, foreign language offerings, religious affiliations and more.
Health insurance is a topic that few people want to discuss, but everyone should consider from time to time. In fact, having some basic knowledge of the subject is vital when making informed healthcare decisions. We sit down with the pros to explore the ins and outs of the industry, helping you consider your myriad options.
Knowing What’s Available
It’s important to know some basics about the types of health insurance that exist, and how patients access them.
Many people obtain coverage through an employer. In this situation, an employer purchases a group plan that is then offered to employees. Sometimes, the employer will cover all or part of the monthly cost of coverage, known as the premium.
Kelly McEver, sales director for CommunityCare in Tulsa, points out that there are often rules around who is eligible for this coverage, typically restricted to full-time employees. It is essential to investigate the details of a plan through a current or potential employer.
A plan offered through an employer is often the most cost-effective approach, but for those who do not have access to an employer plan, there are other options. It also benefits all insurance customers to evaluate different options periodically, especially if life circumstances change, to ensure they use the best plan for their situation.
When an employee with employer-offered coverage leaves that employment, they may qualify for COBRA (Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act) coverage, depending upon the employer’s size. COBRA allows the former employee to keep their coverage, including any coverage they had for family members, by paying the full monthly cost.
“Typically, COBRA coverage is available for 18 months, and the covered individual can choose to end their coverage anytime during that period if they are eligible for coverage through a new employer or if they become eligible for Medicare,” says McEver.
Another option for health insurance is to choose a plan through the federal government’s Health Insurance Marketplace each year. These plans, provided by insurance companies, meet specific criteria. It is essential to pay attention to deadlines for these plans, as enrollment falls during a specific window each year.
These plans come in a range of prices based on how costs are shared and may be more expensive than an employer-offered plan. But some people may qualify, based on their income, for tax credits that offset some of their monthly cost.
Medicare is the primary insurance coverage option for those over 65 and younger people with specific disabilities. This program, run by the federal government, has several parts. According to Medicare.gov, Parts A and B cover hospital costs and doctor visits, respectively. Additional parts of Medicare should be considered to cover other benefits such as prescription drugs. Those nearing age 65 should learn about how Medicare will work for them.
Medicaid may be another insurance option for certain low-income families. This program is administered at the state level through the Oklahoma Health Care Authority. It is important to check this program’s citizenship and income level requirements.
Beyond basic health insurance, there are many types of supplemental insurance. This can include dental and vision insurance or options such as short-term or long-term disability insurance. These are offered through an employer or purchased by an individual. It is important to consider each of these and determine if they are right for you and your situation.
The Risks of the Uninsured
“Studies have shown that unpaid medical costs are the highest reason for bankruptcy for individuals and families,” says McEver. “Having adequate insurance coverage is so important to protect your finances.”
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, in 2023, 26 million Americans, or 8% of the population, were uninsured. This rate is much lower than in past years, but still represents many people. According to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services website, CMS.gov, stabilizing care for an emergency condition cannot be denied based on lack of insurance at most hospital emergency rooms. Also, since the passage of the Affordable Care Act, the government no longer requires people to have health insurance.
However, there are options for those who cannot afford health insurance or lack the option of an employer-provided plan.
“Medicaid may be an option for people who cannot afford insurance and have very limited income,” says McEver. “Pregnant women and families with children may also be eligible without having to meet the stringent income limits.”
The health insurance marketplace may also have options that will fit within a tight budget. For Oklahomans, this is administered through the federal program at HealthCare.gov. It is vital to research all the options, as well as the tax credit options that may apply and make the plans even more affordable.
Navigating Claims
Even those with health insurance can find themselves in difficult situations when a claim – a request for reimbursement from your health insurance provider for covered medical services – is denied. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners provides some insight into how to deal with this situation when it happens.
First, a medical provider typically files a claim after service is rendered. However, a denial may also come when someone seeks preauthorization for a service – which means advanced permission to receive the procedure. After payment is made – or not – the insured will receive an Explanation of Benefits describing what was charged, what the insurer paid and what the patient is responsible for paying.
“If someone receives a notice of claim denial, their first call should be to their insurance company to confirm the reason for the denial,” says McEver. “Often, it is something as simple as an incorrect code entered by the provider, and your insurance company can work with the provider to get the correct information.”
If the denial still stands after ensuring all the submitted information is correct, there is a two-part appeals process, according to HealthCare.gov. The first step is an internal appeal. This is a review of the decision by your insurance company. Be sure to keep track of all related paperwork and any deadlines to appeal that may apply. HealthCare.gov also mentions that if the matter is urgent for your health, be sure to let the insurance company know this, and they will speed up the process.
If necessary, and the denied claim qualifies, a second option is an appeal with an independent third party or external review. HealthCare.gov and the Oklahoma Insurance Department website can provide detailed information to help with this process.
Health Equity: Making a Change
Whether someone has health insurance can significantly affect their overall health. While many people experience differences in their social, economic or environmental circumstances, some insurance companies are working to make access to health available to everyone.
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma offer its Blue Impact Grants to support nonprofit organizations that provide sustainable, measurable programs covering five areas of need: economic opportunity and stability; nutrition; neighborhood and local assets like housing, transportation and access to physical activity; local health and human service needs; and optimal health outcomes.
“We recognize the role certain factors play in someone’s everyday life – having opportunities for a good-paying job, access to nutritious food and affordable housing, to name a few,” says Stephania Grober, president of BCBSOK, in a press release. “These grants directly target those barriers to health and wellness and support the organizations working to make an impact across the state.”
CommunityCare also works hard to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to be healthy, regardless of social, economic or environmental circumstances, says McEver. One of CommunityCare’s programs is the Social Needs Mobile Screening and Referral Program, which helps connect members with local resources for essentials such as food, housing, transportation, utilities and interpersonal safety.
“Our goal is to improve health outcomes, reduce healthcare costs and address health disparities for our members,” says McEver. “By identifying and addressing social needs, we can help our members achieve better overall health and well-being.”
Dry January is ooooover, and that means you might be looking to jump back into responsible sipping. Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. Enjoy a bevy of cocktail suggestions from area bars and restaurants, as well as trends on the rise, new watering holes to visit, mocktails galore plus home bar cart essentials. Cheers!
Cocktail Corner
FLINT, OKC Paper Plane Aperol, Nonino Amaro, Henry McKenna whiskey, lemon. Photo courtesy Coury HospitalityThe Pump, Tulsa Kahiki Kai Coconut rum, banana liqueur, pineapple, coconut cream, dark rum float. Photo by Jessica KarinBarons, Tulsa Grapes in Solidarity Pisco, Brandy, fresh lemon juice, red wine, coconut simple syrup, simple syrup, Angostura bitters. Photo courtesy BaronsBarseo, OKC Poblano Margarita T equila, orange liqueur, apricot, lime, poblano, saline. Photo courtesy BarseoMillennium Lounge, OKC The Umbrella Berry vodka, triple sec, sweet and sour mix, raspberry liqueur. Photo courtesy Millennium LoungeSummit Club, Tulsa Smoke and Mirrors Town Branch Summit bourbon, Fee Brothers foam, crème de cacao dark, lemon juice, Fernet Branca Photo by Andrew SaligaGood for a Few, OKC La Cantinera Cimarron Reposado tequila, Odo de Tigre mezcal, crème de cassis, fresh lime juice, fresh grapefruit juice, simple syrup, Mexican grapefruit soda. Photo courtesy Good for a FewVintage Wine Bar, Tulsa Freezer Door Tuxedo Tanqueray 10 Gin, Tio Pepe fino sherry, dry vermouth, celery bitters, orange bitters Photo by Alex Sapaugh Palo Santo, OKC Peruvian Nights Rye whiskey, chicha morada, pineapple, oloroso sherry, El Guapo Love Potion bitters Photo courtesy Palo Santo
Mocktail Madness
Speaking of cutting down on alcohol consumption, why not opt for a mocktail at dinner tonight? Luckily, Oklahoma’s bars and restaurants are teeming with them.
Duet Jazz
Moscowless Mule Lime juice, ginger beer, club soda, simple syrup
Marvin Berry Blueberry and blackberry syrup, lemon, club soda, basil
Joshua Tree Topo Chico, orange, Angostura bitters, lime
Tellers, OKC
Blackberry Buck Blackberry, fresh-squeezed lime, honey, ginger soda
Beer ABCs
If you’re a fan of a great brew, here are some words to use at your next gathering to seem in-the-know.
Alcohol by Volume (ABV) – A measure of the alcohol content of a liquid. The higher the ABV, the stronger the drink.
Bottom Fermentation – One of two fermentation methods for beer. This one is characterized by the tendency of yeast cells to sink to the bottom of the vessel.
Top Fermentation – The other of the two fermentation methods. This one is, if you can believe it, characterized by the tendency of yeast cells to rise to the surface of the vessel.
Carbonation – Introducing carbon dioxide into a liquid. See also: bubbles!
Draught beer – Beer drawn from kegs, casks or serving tanks.
Fermentation – The conversion of sugars into ethyl alcohol and carbon dioxide gas through yeast.
pH – Short for ‘potential Hydrogen,’ pH shows the degree of acidity and alkalinity in a beer.
What It Takes to Be A Sommelier
Do you love wine? Want to do more than just drink it with your pals? The idea of becoming a sommelier might have crossed your mind – but it’s harder than you’d think. Are are steps to get certified:
1. Take courses: Yes, you have to get to class! Find a reputable certification program and enroll in classes like winemaking and wine tasting.
2. Pass your exams: After you’ve taken the courses to aid in your certification, it’s time to study for, and pass, the sommelier exam, which typically takes a few days. There are differing levels of sommelier, with ‘Master Sommelier’ as the highest title you can earn.
3. Network and gain experience: Learn from experienced sommeliers, work in a restaurant, bar, winery or vineyard, and hone your craft.
Cocktail Spotlights
Photo by Stephanie Phillips
The Winter Spice Negroni Ti Amo Ristorante Italiano, Tulsa Persimmon puree, winter spice gin, Campari, sweet vermouth, persimmon slice and/or twist of orange peel
Photo by Stephanie Phillips
The Tuaca Lemon Drop Ti Amo Ristorante Italiano, Tulsa Lemon juice, simple syrup, vodka, tuaca
New Spots to Visit
Oklahoma’s liquor landscape is ever changing. Below are a few new additions to the scene.
Tiny Bubbles OKC
Once a mobile wine cart, Tiny Bubbles has set up a brick and mortar in OKC’s Shoppes at Northpark. The namesake bubbles are varied, and the menu also includes signature cocktails, wine, beer, after-dinner drinks and zero proof mocktails. There are ample shared plates, pizzas, salads and desserts should you need a respite from all the carbonation.
Maple Ridge Grocer, Tulsa; photo courtesy the McNellie’s Group
The Pump Tulsa
At Sixth and Lewis, The Pump has truly made a name for itself in the Tulsa bar scene. Not only is the ambiance retro-cool, the food is delicious. Try the smash burger, brisket grilled cheese or the loaded tots. Featured cocktails include the Peach Flamingo, with citrus vodka, amaretto, orange, peach and prosecco; and the Golden Driller, with rye rum, pineapple syrup and bitters.
Barseo OKC
Perched beautifully on the edge of OKC’s Paseo District, Barseo offers plenty of craft cocktails, mocktails and shared bites. Highlights of each include the Razzle Dazzle, with mescal, Mazzura, raspberry, lemon, absinthe and pink peppercorn; the Strawberry Moscow Mule with strawberry hibiscus, lime and ginger beer club soda; and the chicken wontons, filled with achiote chicken, fire roasted poblanos and Mexican cheeses.
Cheever’s Tulsa
Yes, this is a restaurant – but the bar is gorgeous and the tasty drinks are sure to hit the spot. Head to the Cherry Street locale for cocktails like the Motto, with citrus vodka, blueberry syrup, lemon juice, soda water and mint. Starters include the roasted chicken and pepperjack strudel and the crab cakes.
Millennium Lounge OKC
Live music, happy hour and vegan dishes make Millennium Lounge a popular OKC spot on Western. Wings, flatbreads, salads and various dips are all found on the menu, as well as craft cocktails galore.
Maple Ridge Grocer Tulsa
A sprawling bar welcomes you at Maple Ridge Grocer, an enticing bistro on 18th and Cincinnati. Alongside bakery, breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner items, enjoy cocktails, beer, wine and desserts, too.
Mindful Drinking
You may roll your eyes when you hear the term “mindful drinking.” But, with a little research, you may realize this concept isn’t as silly as you think.
Firstly – let’s look at the facts. Alcohol sales, per capita, went up more from 2019 to 2021 than in any two-year period since 1969. COVID-19 and quarantining did, indeed, do a number on folks and their alcohol consumption. Additionally, alcohol just isn’t great for you – it causes dental decay, breaks down skin’s collagen, slows down your metabolism, increases anxiety and disrupts sleep.
With that said, are you more open to the concept of mindful drinking now? I thought so!
Mindful drinking is, at its core, very simple; it’s just the practice of being aware of how much alcohol you drink, and why. It often lends itself to healthier relationships with booze – and less consumption in general. A great way to practice mindful drinking? Ask yourself before you order your next round if another drink would really serve you well. Why are you ordering another? Most of the time, just taking a moment to ask yourself those questions will help you cut back on binge drinking.
At-Home Spirit Sensations
Looking to practice tending bar at home? Here are some items you may need to get you started:
Bar storage Whether that’s a bar cart, hutch, buffet or other piece of furniture with storage.
Bottle openers and corkscrews Because you can’t be a home bar specialist if you can’t open your bottles.
Various glassware For all your different kinds of drinks! Think highball, rocks, wine, martini, champagne and shot glasses.
The hardware Get all the equipment you’ll need to tend bar, like measuring cups, jiggers, shakers, strainers, stirring spoons, ice molds, peelers and cutting boards.
Liquor and mixers Yes, this one should be fairly obvious. Get your main attractions, like tequila, vodka, whiskey and gin. Then get the mixers you’ll need, like Cointreau, St. Germain, Campari, soda water and ton. Bonus points for dehydrated fruit and mini umbrellas!
Cocktail Trends
A nice draft beer or a dry martini will always hit the spot, it’s true. But if you want to stay atop the alcohol trends in 2025, here’s what you’re be seeing a lot of this year:
Mixers and Enhancements Soda water, tonic, juice – all great mixers, but drinkers this year are looking to spice things up a bit. Consider aromatic bitters, dehydrated fruits and florals floating in your cocktail. You’ll also see ferments as mixtures, like kombucha, as well as house-made tonics and coconut water.
Diversifying Alcohol Brands Very few spirit brands are sticking with one product these days – mostly out of necessity in a saturated market. Many beer labels are branching out into hard seltzers, and even names that are known for one type of liquor are starting to diversify their portfolios. Additionally, you’ll start seeing cocktails on draft at breweries, helping them to stay competitive in a market that’s waning on craft beer.
Canned cocktails Some say a canned cocktail is lazy – others say it’s convenient. No matter which way you lean, you’ll be seeing more of these on the menu at restaurants and bars statewide.
Direct-To-Consumer Alcohol Sales If one of your New Year’s resolutions was to cut down on food delivery, beware of booze delivery! Direct-to-consumer alcohol sales are spiking in popularity this year, as more opt to drink at home with pals than visit bars.
Eco-Friendly Packaging Being wasteful? Out. Caring for the Earth? In. We’ll be seeing a downturn in glass bottles this year, as well as more sustainable, reusable packaging for take-home booze.
THC Cocktails Cutting calories, helping the liver and avoiding hangovers are all pros of THC cocktails. You’ll still get the buzz without the sobering (see what I did there?) side-effects.
Online Bonus Recipes
All photos courtesy the respective bar/restaurant group unless otherwise marked
Old Rum and the Sea Barons, Tulsa Brugal Anejo rum, fresh grapefruit juice, ginger and citrus syrups, grapefruit sodaBarseo Spritz Barseo, OKC Vodka, Aperol, lemon, strawberry, hibiscus, Peychaud’s bitters, sparkling wineAutumn Ember Metro Wine Bar, OKC Illegal Joven Mezcal, apple cider, maple syrup, lemon, lime, sour cherry bittersFig ‘76 Metro Wine Bar, OKC Ketel One vodka, fig syrup, lemon, sparkling wineBubbles Flight Metro Wine Bar, OKC Kuentz-Bas Crémant d’Alsace Brut, Digby Leander Pink Brut, Billecart-Salmon Brut RéserveOaxacchiato Palo Santo, OKC Mezcal, Pedro Ximénez sherry, Oaxacan hot chocolate Photo by Danny VoPalo Toddy Palo Santo, OKC Wheated bourbon, spiced citrus cranberry honey, Strega Photo by Danny VoReverse Goomba Palo Santo, OKC Japanese whisky, roasted shiitake, Japanese ume bermutto, brandy, China-China Amer, orange bittersEl Cucuy Good for a Few, OKC El Metiche mezcal, Cimarron Reposado tequila, Zila apertif, Dom benedictine, Aztec Chocolate bitters, mole bittersBlood of Kali Ma Vintage Wine Bar, Tulsa Aged rum, lime, orgeat, triple sec, red wine floatThe Low End Vintage Wine Bar, Tulsa House infused strawberry gin, lemon, vanilla simple, egg whiteEspresso Martini FLINT, OKC Kahluah, fresh brewed espresso, Kettle One vanilla vodka, simple syrup Jamaican Me Cozy FLINT, OKC Plantation Jamaican rum, Aperol, pomegranate liqueur, pomegranate molasses, cinnamon simpleFront: Smashed Beet Margarita: Beet infused mezcal, Reposado tequila, blood orange, honey, lime In Coup: Fenway Flip: Rye, Pimm’s, cinnamon syrup, egg, bitters In Highball: Get The Hint: Gin, blueberry shrub, Amaro, rosemary, lemon, soda; all from Amelia’s, TulsaWhat a Pear Stonehorse, Tulsa Pear vodka, grapefruit, St. Germaine, lemon, egg, muddled/shaken rosemary121 Bees Knees Roof Sixty-Six, Tulsa Citrus vodka, local honey, lavender bitters, fresh lemon juice, egg whiteIn Good Spirits Stonehorse, Tulsa Herradura Reposado tequila, sage simply syrup, grapefruit, lime, muddled sageBlack Betty The Pump, Tulsa Prairie gin, blackberry brandy, mint, lemon, blackberries, topped with Squirt
At Fait Maison, chef Bouzerand prepares a Japanese Wagyu A5 filet mignon flambé tableside. Photos courtesy Fait Maison
Walk along East Fifth Street in Edmond, a long and lively avenue lined with restaurants, and you’ll pass a Whataburger, a sushi bar and a pizza shop. Then, hidden at the end of the street, sits an opulent palace dedicated to French fine dining, helmed by a French, Michelin-starred chef. It’s unbelievable. It’s Fait Maison.
Fait Maison is located at East Fifth Street in Edmond.
As that talented mastermind, Olivier Bouzerand, grew up in Burgundy, he never imagined he’d live in Oklahoma. But, from the time he was a small child, he dreamed of being a chef. He made all the right stops on the road to French fame and Michelin stardom: Cooking school in Strasbourg. A job at a Michelin two-star, the venerable Ledoyen in Paris, which has three stars today.
“At Ledoyen,” Bouzerand recalls, “you have to make a perfect dish every time. You can’t settle for anything less.”
Does he have the same high standard at his restaurant today?
“I try,” he says. And indeed, he does.
The next step was owning his own restaurant. It was called Le Patio and it was in the tiny, picturesque village of Saint-Jean-de-Luz in the Pyrenees mountain range between France and Spain. Bouzerand, chef as well as proprietor, was rewarded his Michelin star here.
After several years, he moved on to Cannes. His restaurant there, Le Mesclun, was smaller and a bit more casual, but it was acclaimed and very popular, a well-known spot in one of the most elegant towns on the French Riviera.
Olivier Bouzerand met his partner, Susan Wedel, online. He later moved to Oklahoma and the pair opened Fait Maison.
At Fait Maison today, he observes, there’s no limitation on size, so he can return to the world of fine dining.
“I can do what I want,” he says with a smile. “I can be better than Mesclun, or at least more free.”
What took him to Oklahoma? Blame Cupid. Years ago, for a bit of casual diversion, he started playing an online game called Clash of Clans. So did an elegant and articulate oil executive from Edmond named Susan Wedel. To make a four year long story short, they fell in love. She didn’t want to live anywhere else but Oklahoma, and so that’s where he moved. Together, after a year or so of careful planning, the couple opened Fait Maison together.
I think everyone’s jaw drops a bit when they step inside the restaurant and see a recreation of a salon in a French palace circa 1750, complete with beautiful carved chairs, gold-trimmed cream wall paneling and crystal chandeliers. Their jaws drop even more when they’re served a tray of carefully crafted, miniature appetizers: savory macarons, gougeres and miniature quiches. Then comes a tray of six different kinds of bread. Fait maison means ‘made in house,’ and that stretches to the bread, the butter and just about everything else on the menu.
The tasting menu, which changes monthly, is the way to go. On a recent visit, it included a single plump scallop served with a frothy and flavorful celery Parmesan foam; an exquisite sea bass filet with a hearty sauce infused with langoustine and mussel stock; a tiny tartlet with spinach-braised escargot; braised veal shank with a bubbling garlic cream on top; and squab breast topped with foie gras and a rich savory sauce.
Lobster and foie-gras stew with mushrooms and green asparagus is a highlight at Fait Maison. Main image credit: Chef Bouzerand prepares a Japanese Wagyu A5 filet mignon flambé tableside. All photos courtesy Fait Maison
If that’s not enough, you can supplement your meal with three plates made with perfectly cooked foie gras. The foie is served as a terrine, served layered between pasta in a lasagna with black truffles, and seared and served with port wine sauce. Desserts include an elegant soufflé.
And then comes coffee, which comes from the same French purveyor that supplied both of Bouzerand’s French restaurants so many years ago. Because Bouzerand is a man who keeps in touch with his roots.
Chef Tyler Whitson, who once worked under James Shrader at Tulsa's Palace Cafe, now touts his own restaurant, The Copper Dome. Photos by Stephanie Phillips
Some of the most exciting and creative dishes in Oklahoma are coming out of a small, spotless kitchen in a west Tulsa restaurant you probably haven’t heard of yet. These plates are being lovingly and carefully prepared – some dishes take hours – by a team of young chefs led by Tyler Whitson.
Ask Whitson and he’ll tell you that he doesn’t have any glamorous childhood food memories, like eating in fancy restaurants or watching his wise grandmother prepare fabulous Sunday dinners. But, he allows, there was that summer when he was twelve – and he and his cousin ate nothing but squirrel.
They’d get up early, get lost in the woods around his Ochelata home, where they hunted, skinned and brined. Each day, with no training whatsoever, they’d invent a new way to cook their prey. A few months later – he was just thirteen – Whitson was watching a TV documentary about candies when he suddenly got up and said “I want to be a chef!” He’s spent the rest of his life chasing that dream.
It took him through cooking school in Bartlesville (Tri-County Tech), Montana Mike’s steakhouse, a country club and a butcher shop. (“I learned to break down animals from my grandfather,” he says. “He was a butcher for fifty years.”)
Then, he went to the Culinary Institute of America in New York. After graduation, he got a job with chef James Shrader at Tulsa’s Palace Cafe. He worked there for years, interrupted by a stint teaching the art of cooking in Enid. His wife was pursuing a graduate degree nearby and he wanted to be close to her.
Today, you can drive west from midtown and, after about ten minutes, the little houses of west Tulsa give way to a delightful wooded area with a rambling stone building constructed like an old farmhouse. That’s the Silo Event Center, and it’s also the site of Copper Dom. After Shrader retired, Whitson wanted to start his own restaurant. He and two other talented chefs who worked at Palace, Robert Brassfield and Nathaniel Christenson, as well as mixologist Spencer Barrett, set up shop there, with an opening in September 2024.
“We’re far away from everything,” says Whitson, “so we have to have unique appeal. We focus on locality, seasonality and sustainability. And we’re multi-experience.”
The grainless sweet potato risotto is a major draw at The Copper Dome.
Thursday is cocktail night, with small plates. They plan to introduce Bento boxes, Palace’s beloved small-bites feature. On Friday and Saturday, there’s an 8-course tasting menu, with a la carte options, too.
“We can have fun with this,” he says. “We can take chances. It’s our cream of the crop menu.”
There’s also a lot of work involved. Some dishes, such as the duck roulade, take hundreds of words just to describe the cooking process – words like skin, scrape, debone, grind, dice, sous-vide, bake, smoke – and hours to make. The chefs use a lot of techniques from French fine dining. A sweet potato “risotto” features vegetables so finely diced by hand you can barely see the pieces.
The dinner is expensive, but worth it.
“I want people to spend $90 and leave thinking, ‘I sure got my money’s worth,” Whitson says.
Sunday is totally different; all you can eat for $28.
“I know my generation,” he observes. “I know how much millennials can spend and what they want. They want a lot of food, they want it served immediately, a set menu, so no decisions, and they want to share with friends.”
Sunday themes vary, but it’s always good. And why is the food always so excellent?
“We’re not working for others,” Whitson answers. “Finally, we get to do what we want.”
Chef Whitson’sGrainless Sweet Potato Risotto
1 large sweet potato, about 12-14 oz.
2 tsp. minced shallot
2 tbsp. white wine
1 tbsp. carrot juice
1 tbsp. mascarpone
3 tbsp. grana padano or Parma reggiano (microplane needed for that fine shred)
1 tbsp. English butter
4 cups of vegetable stock
Salt and pepper to taste
Any amount of cheese at the end; we like to spoil the plate with it.
1. Add a light amount of oil to an 8-inch saute pan. Let it come up to medium heat, then add the shallots.
2. Sweat the shallots until translucent, not browned. Turn down the heat if need be. Once they are sweated, add the wine and burn off the alcohol.
3. Add the sweet potatoes and a pinch of S&P, this allows the salt to cook into your vegetables, not too much or you won’t keep control for the ending. Then add 4oz of vegetable stock.
4. Let the liquid come to a high simmer, not boil, and reduce the liquid until it is almost dry in the pan. Next, add the carrot juice (this helps with keeping it bright and shiny orange and adds more vegetable flavor) and another 4oz of vegetable stock and repeat process.
5. At this point if you cut the sweet potatoes brunoise size you should only need about 2-3oz of stock it is larger than 1/8inx1/8inx1/8in you’ll need to repeat the stock process till the potatoes are tender but nut mushy, the potatoes should have a soft bite to them.
6. If they are “al dente” add the mascarpone and just a touch of stock, a splash, and melt the mascarpone until it is fully dissolved. Next add the finely shredded cheese. Melt till dissolved and thickened.
7. Finish with butter and to taste with the S&P. Add some more cheese if you want it thicker consistency.
8. Plate up and go Olive Garden with the cheese till it piles high or just a bit of cheese if you want. The potatoes are good by themselves, I just love cheese.
