Described as both gifted and challenged, twice-exceptional kids, called 2E kids for short, possess both intellectual giftedness and one or more learning disabilities. The tension between these two realities can make learning a complicated and frustrating experience. However, according to the Child Mind Institute, an organization dedicated to helping children who are experiencing mental health and learning disorders, the right combination of supportive services can identify and improve 2E children’s academic performance and self-esteem.
“Twice-exceptional or 2E students are those with high intellectual abilities (giftedness) alongside a neurodivergent trait or disability. This accounts for likely 2-5% of school aged children,” explains Robyn Cowperthwaite, M.D., chief of adolescent psychiatry at Oklahoma Children’s OU Health in Oklahoma City. She says learning challenges can easily hide learning strengths, and strengths can disguise learning challenges.
“For example, someone may have a reading disorder but have an overall very high level of intelligence,” says Cowperthwaite. “They can likely use that intelligence to mask the reading disorder and compensate with other intellectual strengths. Their overall ability may look average in this scenario, but is truthfully much higher. All the while, the child is not getting the reading support needed that will be required in higher levels of education.”
The same dynamic plays out in a different way for children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). A highly intelligent child with ADHD, for instance, may still appear to be failing.
“They are unable to concentrate, focus, sit still or accomplish their work,” she says. “They appear disruptive and are unable to show their true knowledge or learning capabilities. That child could become quite dejected and feel that they are simply not a good student, which can ultimately change an academic path or career options.”
In both cases, the child’s potential goes unseen. Without appropriate support, the personal toll can be lasting, with children experiencing anxiety, depression and other behavior problems. It is these far-reaching impacts that make the diagnosis and support of 2E children so important. Navigating these conditions requires individualized care and attention.
“Children with both exceptional talents and disabilities that go unrecognized can have emotional and behavioral consequences,” says Cowperthwaite. “It is recommended that children with asynchronous and unequal development, meaning being advanced in some areas while considerably lagging in others, be referred for neuropsychological testing to potentially rule out any learning differences or disabilities. When appropriately identified and supported, our 2E children can experience much more academic success and emotional well-being, including higher self-esteem.”
For proper identification of 2E kids, she says a school’s involvement for a full assessment of disability, learning disorder or neurodivergence is essential.
“This allows for a potential 504 plan or individualized education plan developed specifically for the child’s personal needs,” she says. “It has also been suggested that parents seek enrichment activities outside of school for areas of interest and support skills that are more challenging. Ideal management focuses on strength-based interventions. Effective support recognizes strengths, capability and intelligence as well as limitations, needs and disability.”
For parents on this journey, Cowperthwaite offers some reassurance alongside practical guidance.
“It is important to remember that academic opportunities expand, and the child can excel with time,” she says. “The older we become, we have a less defined, rigid curriculum and more choice in how we learn new information, the environment we choose and how we focus our time.”
She emphasizes that this balance of strength and struggle is precisely what makes 2E individuals such powerful contributors to the world.
“2E individuals can bring remarkable innovation and creativity to their work in science, technology and the arts, but only if they have the opportunity to realize their inherent capabilities,” she says. “People with these very specific passions and skills have created many of the innovations we enjoy today and will continue to do so the more we support their development.”
Located in the heart of southern Oklahoma, Sulphur is a small-town gem perfect for a relaxing day trip or stop along a broader journey. With natural springs, rich history and vibrant cultural heritage, this Murray County community invites visitors to slow down, explore and soak in life’s simple pleasures. Whether you’re craving outdoor adventure, a quiet read or a deep dive into the past, Sulphur delivers a mix of welcoming, unhurried attractions.
Start your visit at the Mary E. Parker Memorial Library, a community hub with more than 13,000 catalogued items, including valuable resources like the Dawes Rolls for the Five Civilized Tribes – ideal for genealogy buffs or history enthusiasts. The library hosts engaging programs such as book clubs, cooking classes, lunch-and-learn sessions, yoga and summer reading events for all ages.
Just a short drive away lies the Chickasaw National Recreation Area, an oasis named for the Chickasaw Nation. Famous for its healing springs, streams and lakes, the park offers swimming, fishing, boating on Lake of the Arbuckles, hiking along more than 20 miles of trails, and scenic picnicking. The historic Platt District preserves early 20th-century park heritage, while the Travertine Nature Center provides educational exhibits on the area’s natural wonders.
A favorite for generations, Chickasaw National Recreation Area continues to draw visitors with its natural charm and outdoor activities. Photos courtesy Chickasaw Nation
For a deeper look into local lore, stop by the Arbuckle Historical Society Museum, housed in the beautiful 1917 City Hall building (listed on the National Register of Historic Places). Free to visit, the museum features artifacts spanning Sulphur’s history from its Chickasaw Nation roots and Indian Territory days to local schools, veterans and everyday life. Browse the Boy Scout Room, Truck Room displays on Sulphur Springs, a large-scale model of the town circa 1895, old newspapers, tools, minerals, presidential pins and a genealogy-friendly collection of Murray County records.
No trip to Sulphur is complete without the Chickasaw Cultural Center, a stunning 184-acre campus that serves as a living tribute to Chickasaw heritage.
“The Chickasaw Cultural Center provides a place for Chickasaw citizens to learn more about themselves, and for the public to learn more about the Chickasaw Nation,” says Fran Parchcorn, executive director of the center. The result of over 50 years of planning by the Chickasaw Nation, the 118,000-square-foot indoor space blends technology, film, agriculture, lectures, hands-on exhibits, shopping and dining to tell the Chickasaw story and preserve tribal culture for future generations.
Parchcorn highlights the integrative programming, technology and film together in the Chickasaw Cultural Center’s Anoli’ Theater “and agriculture with our beautiful gardens and landscaping; lectures and workshops, hands-on programming in the Chikasha Poya Exhibit Hall; shopping in our Aachompa retail store; and traditional and contemporary food dining in the Aaimpa’ Café.”
Daily stomp dance exhibitions at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. draw crowds, alongside special events like the Three Sisters Celebration, Toompalli’ Summer Festival, Holba’ Pisachi’ Native Film Festival, Native American Heritage Day and Christmas Celebration. Newer additions include Tribal Ag Day in May.
Mark your calendar for the annual Toompalli’ Summer Festival on June 13 – a free, family-friendly celebration welcoming the season with live performances, cultural demonstrations, hands-on activities, crafts, Chickasaw cuisine, art and films for all ages.
Sulphur wraps history, nature and culture into one inviting package. Whether here for a few hours or a full day, leave with a smile, a few great stories and maybe a new favorite exhibit.
Lori Decter Wright, Stephanie Washington; Season launch party, Tulsa Opera Suzanne Warren, Ann Shannon Cassidy, Sheri Colpitt, Sara Fariss; Icons and Idols, Tulsa BalletSam Briggs, Scott Coulter, Scott Seaton, Ana Berry; Tulsa Sings! America @250, Signature Symphony, TulsaErin Engelke, Kourtney Hartenstein; Faces of ReMerge Luncheon, ReMerge, OKCLance McDaniel, Lee Allan Smith; Lee Allan Smith Oklahoma Legacy Awards, Oklahoma Hall of Fame, OKCNicole Poole, Mary Ellen Gumerson, Chip & Shannon Fudge; Founders Day, Oklahoma Contemporary, OKCDebra Hull, Marnie Taylor; ONE Awards, Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits, OKCCharlie Ludden, Krystal Yoseph, Jordan Broiles; 2026 Ballet Ball, OKC BalletHannah McKinnon, Bailey Maxey, Riley Acuff; Spring support group programming wrap-up, Calm Waters, OKCJared Kinley, Elaine Smith; ARTini, Allied Arts, OKCAngela Troutz, Carlisha Bradley; Garden Gala, A New Leaf, Tulsa
A Lake Day Packing Guide: What to Bring, What to Leave
Oklahoma boasts 32 state parks and over 200 lakes, where groups need to bring only a few vital items for fun and sun safety. Before you hit the road for your trip, make sure you’ve got the essentials – and leave the fluff at home.
Sun protection, plenty of water, quick-dry towels, food that won’t spoil in extreme heat, beach umbrellas, snorkel gear and hand sanitizer are high on the checklist. Things like portable speakers – and all electronics – should be sealed in plastic bags to avoid damage from moisture.
Other than water, heat and harsh sunlight, sand is another trapping of the lake, so it might be in your best interest to leave anything that fails to last through the hot temperatures or is easily damaged at home.
Don’t bring valuables, glass containers, perishable foods, excess alcohol or anything else that you don’t want exposed to sand or water. And, if you plan on boating, always remember your lifejackets, as Oklahoma has one of the most zealous lake patrols nationwide.
According to the Chief Ranger for Oklahoma State Parks, Steven Fisher, “loaner lifejackets are available at designated areas at lake beaches.”
Lastly, remember that some pets aren’t suited to boat or lake life. If you decide to bring your pet, ensure they’re well-trained, and have food, water and access to shade.
Grand Lake is one of the most-visited bodies of water in Oklahoma. All photos by Dave Wagenblatt
Hidden Gems: Lakes Worth the Drive
For those who want to avoid the crowds, there are plenty of gorgeous lakes and state parks that may be less saturated than you’d think. Lake Eufaula, Lake Texoma, Lake Thunderbird, Lake Hudson, Lake Wister and Broken Bow Lake are all incredibly scenic, but still offer the lake day you’re craving.
Every lake listed offers cabins, hiking and biking trails, but offers its own unique amenities. For example, at Lake Thunderbird, one can rent a boat slip at Little River Marina, and at Broken Bow Lake’s Beaver’s Bend State Park, one can fly-fish, or even learn to fly-fish with expert guides.
The average cost of renting a cabin at an Oklahoma lake is between $125-$350 per night, making it an affordable vacation for families. Most are equipped with hot tubs or jacuzzis, nestled against lakeside mountains that rise above the pristine waters of a slate-bottom lake basin.
Veering from the main thoroughfare has its advantages, but you can expect a long drive from Tulsa if you visit Broken Bow Lake. It’s at least three hours south. From Oklahoma City or Norman, expect to drive for well over four hours.
June is the busiest month for most of these lakes, even those along the sparsely populated pathway. Seasonal considerations are available from the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Summers are the peak times for boating, fishing, swimming and water sports. Check with county game wardens for fishing licenses.
Staying Safe in the Oklahoma Heat
Summers in Oklahoma are no joke, and if you spend plenty of time outdoors, you’re at risk of developing an acute heat-related illness. We explore a few of the most common ailments and how to handle them.
Heat exhaustion: You likely have heat exhaustion if you’re heavily sweating, dizzy, nauseous and have a pounding headache. Cool off as quickly as possible, whether that’s by immersing yourself in cold water, moving to the shade or heading indoors. Lie down, elevate your legs, drink cool water and change into loose, cool clothing.
Heat cramps: Heat cramps can occur in the legs, arms and stomach and typically happen because of excessive sweating. Head inside, drink something with electrolytes, gently stretch and wait until pain subsides before resuming activity.
Dehydration: Dehydration can look a lot like heat exhaustion – headaches, fatigue, dizziness and rapid heartbeat. To rectify, sip water steadily (don’t chug), avoid caffeine or alcohol, move indoors and rest.
Heat stroke: Symptoms of a heat stroke include mental confusion, no sweating and a very high body temperature. Call 911 immediately and cool aggressively with ice packs, wet towels and cold water until help arrives.
Another risk Oklahomans face on the lake is complications with alcohol. According to statistics from the U.S. Coast Guard, alcohol use is consistently the leading known contributing factor in fatal boating accidents. Further, if a person boats under the influence, a “BUI” could result, leading to possible jail time, large fines or suspended driver’s or boating licenses. According to George F. Koob, Director of the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, “alcohol can also lead to poor decision making and lack of self-control, which bring out a person’s inner risk-taker…For example, swimmers may misjudge their strength or stamina and get too far from shore. Impaired judgment may also lead them to dive into dangerously shallow water.”
Remember that kids and older adults should be given special safety considerations on the water and at the lake. Keep these vulnerable individuals healthy by limiting sun exposure to less intense times of the day, and encourage them with pastimes like fishing, which can be done in shaded areas.
Fishing 101
Beginning fishers might consider buying a rod and reel, tackle-box for storing plastic bait, lures, bobbers and hooks, and perhaps a net for bringing that one trophy of a fish into the boat. The most common fish for beginners to catch and take home for eating are bass, crappie, and catfish. Of Oklahoma’s 200+ lakes, we have more than forty species of fish, but some of them should not be eaten, such as walleye, alligator gar and paddlefish. (They are edible; they just aren’t palatable to most.)
The top lakes for fishing are Grand Lake for bass, Lake Eufaula for crappie, and Lake Tenkiller and Lake Texoma for striped bass. Beginners should take a look at Oklahoma’s “Fishing Trail” – launched by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation and Tourism Department – which features 38 lakes and 20 “Close to Home” fishing spots organized into six regional loops.
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** = Designation as a Top Doctors Rising Star All physician photos courtesy their respective health system
Harold M. Burkhart, M.D.
Pediatric Cardiothoracic Surgery Oklahoma Children’s OU Health Oklahoma City
Harold M. Burkhart, M.D., is the chief of pediatric cardiothoracic surgery at Oklahoma Children’s OU Health and professor and chief of the cardiac, thoracic and vascular surgery division at the OU College of Medicine.
When entering medical school, Burkhart had planned to become a pediatrician, until surgery caught his attention.
“I was drawn to pediatric heart surgery because it combines technical precision with the opportunity to make a profound, lifelong impact on a child’s future,” he says. “Congenital heart defects are among the most complex conditions in medicine, and the ability to correct or significantly improve a child’s heart function early in life is incredibly meaningful.”
His interests include neonatal cardiac surgery, complex congenital heart reconstruction and valve reconstruction, and a focus on advancing surgical techniques that improve survival while enhancing quality of life.
“The most rewarding part of my career is seeing children I operated on return home — thriving, running, playing and living full lives,” he says.
He says he’s fortunate to work with a large, dedicated team of caregivers who share his passion to care for children with heart disease. Burkhart also notes that congenital heart defects are more common than many people realize, and that the outlook for affected children has never been better.
“The encouraging news is that advances in diagnosis, surgical techniques and postoperative care have dramatically improved outcomes,” he says. “Today, the vast majority of children with heart defects can go on to live active, fulfilling lives.”
Innovations in imaging, such as high-resolution 3D modeling, allow for more precise surgical planning, while improvements in cardiopulmonary bypass techniques have significantly enhanced survival rates. Additionally, hybrid approaches combining surgery with catheter-based interventions have expanded treatment options and reduced recovery times.
Chad Hanson, D.O.
Orthopedic Surgery OSU Medicine Tulsa
Chad Hanson, D.O., is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon whose path to the specialty felt like a natural fit.
“My dad was an NHL hockey player, so sports and athletics were a large part of my upbringing,” he says. “Orthopedic surgery provided a good avenue for me to succeed with my background.”
Hanson serves as associate clinical professor and orthopedic surgery residency program director with OSU Medicine, where he is also the team orthopedic surgeon for OSU Athletics.
He finds it especially rewarding to see athletes return to competition after an injury – “anytime we can get an athlete back on the field competing at the same or higher level of play is a success,” he says.
His clinical interests center on hip and knee arthroscopy with ligament reconstruction and cartilage repair. Advancements in technology now allow surgeons to access, repair and realign joints with far less risk.
“As the field continues to evolve, biologic treatment and management of lower extremity joints is becoming more prevalent, and patients are requesting more non-operative or minimally invasive options,” says Hanson. “Through OSU Medicine, many of those treatment options are available.”
When it comes to sports medicine injuries, his advice is simple: don’t wait.
“Any injury that lingers more than six weeks needs to be evaluated, and full tendon or ligament tears need to be seen urgently,” he says. “Sometimes people can’t be treated because they wait too long and the muscle or tendon has contracted. Always get checked out so you can get fixed and back on the field.”
Julie Morrow, D.O.
Pediatrics SSM Health Medical Group Oklahoma City
Julie Morrow, D.O., a pediatrician with SSM Health Medical Group, loves working with children and is amazed by their tenacity and fortitude.
“Children are resilient, curious, funny in the most unexpected ways, and bring joy and laughter even on the most challenging days,” says Morrow. “Ultimately, I could not imagine doing anything else.”
For Morrow, pediatric medicine is about working with families to create nurturing, healthy and safe environments to support happy, healthy children.
“A pediatrician wants to be a trusted resource for not just the patient, but the family as well,” says Morrow. “Caring for your children is a team effort and a privilege not taken lightly.”
She finds it especially rewarding to build relationships with families and follow children from infancy to young adulthood.
“It’s not just about treating illnesses but also teaching the family about healthy habits and expected developmental milestones,” she says. “The impact of early intervention for even minor delays makes a difference. It’s amazing to watch a newborn grow into a healthy, confident teen.”
Morrow has been in practice long enough that she is now seeing the children of her former patients.
“I am so lucky to take care of their children,” she says. “The genuine relationships are incredibly meaningful.”
On the advances shaping her field, Morrow points to a relatively new immunization to prevent RSV as a much-needed breakthrough.
“RSV remains one of the most common illnesses leading to the hospitalization of infants,” she says. “Now we can offer an immunization during the RSV season that may truly help prevent this infection.”
Ryan Alexander Zengou, M.D.
Neurosurgery Warren Neuroscience Institute, Saint Francis Health System Tulsa
Ryan Alexander Zengou, M.D., a neurosurgeon with Warren Neuroscience Institute, sees his work as both challenging and deeply rewarding. With more than 15 years of experience, Zengou treats complex conditions of the brain, spine and nervous system with both traditional and minimally invasive techniques.
“I chose neurosurgery because it challenges me to work with the most vital structures – the brain and spine – where even millimeters count,” he says. “Within neurosurgery, I’m particularly passionate about brain surgery; its complexity, its connection to our identity, who we are, what makes each person unique and the delicate access it requires.”
One of the most rewarding moments of his career was helping a patient with a malignant brain tumor meet his newborn child before he passed – an experience he says he’ll never forget.
“Neurosurgery is demanding, with outcomes often hinging on the smallest margins,” says Zengou. “We support not only patients but also their families through life-altering events.”
He adds that recent breakthroughs have transformed care, including minimally invasive techniques for spine and brain, robotic assistance for greater precision, and advanced genetic analysis for tumors and endovascular treatments.
“The field keeps evolving, and I’m grateful to be a part of it,” says Zengou.
Zengou completed his neurosurgery residency at Rush University Medical Center and earned his medical degree from the University of Connecticut.
Morgan Bonds, M.D.
Surgical Oncology OU Health Stephenson Cancer Cente Oklahoma City
Morgan Bonds, M.D., is a general and hepatopancreatobiliary surgeon with OU Health and an assistant professor of surgery and the interim associate dean of admissions at the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine. She chose the field of hepatopancreatobiliary surgery for the opportunity it gives her to work closely with patients and guide them through unexpected and difficult moments in their lives.
“As a clinician, the most rewarding part of my career is hearing that I have put patients and their families at ease and given them reassurance during a difficult time,” says Bonds. Providing patients with the information they need to make their own informed decisions, she adds, is essential to her specialty.
Her particular interest lies in caring for benign and malignant diseases of the pancreas and biliary tree — a field she describes as both constantly evolving and rich with possibility.
“We are making strides in the care of pancreatic and liver diseases that will provide patients with more options and improved outcomes at a rapid pace,” she says. “OU Health continues to contribute to the innovation in this field through translational and clinical research.”
That innovation extends to technology. Bonds notes that hepatopancreatobiliary surgery is fertile ground for novel device development, from probes that guide intraoperative dissection to improve tumor resection, to 3-D modeling with artificial intelligence to plan surgical interventions in the liver.
“Many of my colleagues work closely within the industry to ensure the new devices will improve our patients’ lives,” she says.
Christina G. Kendrick, M.D.
Dermatology Tulsa Dermatology Clinic Tulsa
Christina G. Kendrick, M.D., is a board-certified dermatologist and physician-owner at Tulsa Dermatology Clinic, where she has practiced medical, surgical and cosmetic dermatology for 17 years. She was drawn to the specialty for its unique blend of medicine and surgery, and its unusually wide patient range.
“Dermatology offers the opportunity to diagnose and manage complex medical conditions, while also performing procedures such as skin cancer excisions and other surgical treatments,” she says. “I see patients from infants under a year old to patients well over 100. That breadth makes the field especially rewarding.”
Kendrick is particularly interested in inflammatory skin diseases and skin findings that may signal underlying systemic conditions.
“The skin can often provide important clues about a patient’s overall health,” she says. “It is especially gratifying to help patients with chronic, widespread skin conditions gain control of their disease and experience a meaningful improvement in their quality of life.”
She has also witnessed a dramatic shift in treatment options over her career. Today, targeted biologic therapies offer greater effectiveness and improved safety profiles compared with traditional systemic immunosuppressive medications.
“They have dramatically improved outcomes for patients with conditions such as psoriasis, eczema and other chronic inflammatory skin diseases,” says Kendrick.
In addition, new treatments have transformed outcomes for advanced melanoma and other skin cancers. Patients with metastatic melanoma, once considered rapidly fatal, now often have significantly improved survival and, in some cases, long-term disease control.
Gut Health & the Microbiome
The digestive tract is home to trillions of microorganisms collectively known as the microbiome, and they play a vital role in digestion, immunity and mood. An imbalance in gut bacteria has been linked to conditions ranging from irritable bowel syndrome to metabolic disorders. Your microbiome is largely dependent on your diet and other environmental exposures.
Fiber-rich foods, fermented items like yogurt, and limiting highly processed foods can support a healthier microbiome. Additionally, probiotics – “food and health products that contribute live, beneficial microbes to the populations within your gut and elsewhere,” according to Cleveland Clinic, can also assist in balancing your gut after illness.
– Cleveland Clinic
Heart Health: Know the Signs
Heart disease includes a wealth of problems, mostly related to atherosclerosis, which “develops when a substance called plaque builds up in the walls of the arteries,” according to the American Heart Association. “This buildup narrows the arteries, making it harder for blood to flow through.” Warning signs of heart trouble may include chest discomfort or pressure, shortness of breath, unusual fatigue, dizziness or pain that spreads to the arm, jaw or back. Some symptoms, especially in women, can be subtle, such as nausea or extreme tiredness.
Prevention starts with daily habits, like a heart-healthy diet with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and limited sodium, added sugars and saturated fats. Additionally, at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week helps strengthen the heart and improve circulation.
– American Heart Association
Understanding Chronic Kidney Disease
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) develops gradually and often has no symptoms in its early stages. The kidneys filter waste from the blood, and when they’re not functioning properly, harmful levels of fluid and toxins build up in the body. Diabetes, high blood pressure, autoimmune diseases like lupus and prolonged obstruction of the urinary tract are the leading causes of CKD.
When CKD becomes advanced, symptoms include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, fatigue, sleep problems, decreased mental acuity and high blood pressure. A person would then need dialysis or a kidney transplant to repair lost function. Routine blood and urine tests can detect CKD early, making regular checkups especially important for those at risk.
– Mayo Clinic
Migraines: Beyond a Bad Headache
While you may assume a migraine is just a severe headache, it’s actually a complex neurological condition. Migraines typically present with throbbing pain in the head, alongside sensitivity to light and sound, nausea and visual disturbances known as ‘aura’ – typically flashes of light or blind spots. Some people also experience tingling in the face, arms or legs.
Triggers for migraines vary from person to person, but common causes include hormonal changes, stress, sensory stimuli, sleep changes and physical strain. Migraines can be diagnosed by a neurologist, and treatments include pain-relieving and preventive medicines as well as neuromodulation therapy. Call a healthcare professional right away if your headache comes on abruptly and feels like a thunderclap (a sign of an aneurysm), or your headache is accompanied by a stiff neck, fever and confusion (sign of a stroke).
– Mayo Clinic
Skin Cancer & Early Detection
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S. and is also one of the most preventable. Anyone can get skin cancer, but those more susceptible typically have lighter skin, skin prone to sunburns, blonde or red hair, and a large number of moles. Those with family history of skin cancer and those who sunbathe more often – either outside or in tanning beds – are also at higher risk.
Ultraviolet (UV) exposure is the leading risk factor for developing skin cancer. Regular use of sunscreen, protective clothing and avoiding peak sun hours (typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.) can significantly reduce your risk. Monthly self-checks are important: look for new or changing moles, asymmetry, irregular borders or unusual coloration. If you find something suspicious, inform your primary care physician or dermatologist.
– American Cancer Society
Pancreatic Cancer: Subtle Signs
Pancreatic cancer is often called a “silent” disease because symptoms tend to appear only after significant cancerous growth. Early warning signs can be vague and hard to attribute: abdominal or back pain, unexplained weight loss, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) and changes in appetite.
Risk factors include tobacco use, diabetes, excess body weight, chronic pancreatitis and a family history of the disease.
Imaging and specialized tests help confirm diagnosis, and treatment may involve surgery, chemotherapy or radiation depending on the stage it was caught. While prognosis is dim – the overall 5-year relative survival rate for pancreatic cancer is approximately 13% – researchers are working to advance the understanding of how to prevent, detect and treat pancreatic cancer.
– National Cancer Institute
Top Doctors 2026 Listing
Adolescent Medicine
Paul Benson, MD OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center, Oklahoma Children’s Hospital at OU Health, Saint Francis Children’s Hospital (918) 619-4300 LGBTQ+ Health, Reproductive Health, Eating Disorders
Anesthesiology
Nigam Sheth, MD SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital, Oklahoma Heart Hospital North, INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center (405) 272-9641 Cardiothoracic Anesthesiology
Cardiac Electrophysiology
Karen J. Beckman, MD OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-7001 Arrhythmias, Hospital Medicine
Sean M. Halleran, MD INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center (405) 948-4040 Arrhythmias, Cardiac Catheterization, Pacemakers Defibrillators
Muhammad Anwar, MD Heart Clinic Central Oklahoma, Norman Regional Hospital (405) 321-0199 Preventive Cardiology, Cholesterol/Lipid Disorders, Hypertension
Archana Gautam, MD Norman Heart and Vascular Associates, Norman Regional Hospital (405) 515-2222 Peripheral Vascular Disease, Ischemic Heart Disease, Heart Disease in Women
Katherine Hays, MD Norman Heart and Vascular Associates, Norman Regional Hospital (405) 515-2222
Richard Kacere, MD Ascension St. John Medical Center (918) 748-7650 Cardiovascular Imaging, Preventive Cardiology, Congenital Heart Disease-Adults
Tho Dinh Le, MD Saint Francis Heart and Vascular Institute, Saint Francis Hospital South (918) 494-8500 Interventional Cardiology, Pacemakers/Defibrillators
Muhammad Salim, MD Norman Heart and Vascular Associates, Norman Regional Hospital (405) 515-2222 Interventional Cardiology, Nuclear Cardiology
Michael Lee Villano, MD Norman Heart and Vascular Associates, Norman Regional Hospital (405) 515-2222 Pulmonary Hypertension
D. Matt Wilkett, DO Oklahoma State University Medical Center, Claremore Indian Hospital (918) 582-7711 Non-Invasive Cardiology
Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
Robyn Lyn Cowperthwaite, MD OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center, OU Health Edmond Medical Center (405) 271-5251 ADD/ADHD, Anxiety & Depression, Autism Spectrum Disorders
Child Neurology
David J. Siegler, MD Child Neurology of Tulsa, Saint Francis Hospital, Ascension St. John Medical Center (918) 493-3300 Epilepsy/Seizure Disorders, Headache, Neuromuscular Disorders
Colon & Rectal Surgery
Kristina Booth, MD OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center, SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital (405) 271-1632 Robotic Surgery, Colon Cancer
Steven Carter, MD, FACS OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center, OU Health Edmond Medical Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-1632 Rectal Cancer, Colon Cancer, Robotic Surgery
Rahal Y. Kahanda, MD Oklahoma Surgical Associates, Norman Regional Hospital (405) 515-4099 Robotic Surgery, Minimally Invasive Surgery, Colon & Rectal Cancer
W. Conan Mustain, MD Mercy Hospital (405) 936-5718 Colon & Rectal Cancer & Surgery, Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Diverticulitis
Dermatology
Jeff Alexander, MD Jeff Alexander Dermatology (918) 494-8333 Skin Cancer, Facial Rejuvenation, Cosmetic Dermatology
Pamela S. Allen, MD OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (572) 244-0064 Cosmetic Dermatology
Lynn A. Anderson, MD Midtown Dermatology, Ascension St. John Medical Center (918) 728-3100 Cosmetic Dermatology, Acne & Rosacea
Tiffany Brazeal, MD SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital (405) 280-7546 Cosmetic Dermatology, Medical Dermatology
David Keith Duncan, MD 2413 Palmer Circle (405) 321-3868
Shelbi Hayes, MD SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital (405) 280-7546 Cosmetic Dermatology, Medical Dermatology
Kimberly Jerdan, MD Jerdan Dermatology & Laser Institute (405) 212-2880 Cosmetic Laser Surgery, Non-Surgical Cosmetic Treatments, Medical Dermatology
Andrea Jurgens, MD Epiphany Dermatology (918) 994-4400 Medical Dermatology, Dermatologic Surgery
Christina G. Kendrick, MD Tulsa Dermatology Clinic (918) 749-2261
Mark D. Lehman, MD Tulsa Dermatology Clinic (918) 749-2261 Laser Surgery
Kelli Ann Lovelace, MD Tulsa Dermatology Clinic (918) 749-2261 Botox
Douglas P. Beall, MD Comprehensive Specialty Care, Oklahoma Spine Hospital, Summit Medical Center (405) 601-2325 Musculoskeletal Imaging, Interventional Radiology, Sports Medicine Radiology
Kelly N. McDonough, MD Breast Health Network Edmond, OU Health Edmond Medical Center (405) 844-2601 Breast Imaging, Breast Cancer
James Webb Jr, MD Dr. James Webb & Associates (918) 260-9322 Musculoskeletal Imaging, Osteoporosis, Interventional Pain Management
Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism
Mary Z. Baker, MD Harold Hamm Diabetes Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (572) 244-0035 Diabetes, Osteoporosis, Pituitary Disorders
Facial Plastic Surgery/Otolaryngology
Ivan Wayne, MD W Facial Aesthetics (405) 748-5950 Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Rhinoplasty, Pediatric & Adult Otolaryngology
Family Medicine
Andrea M. Adams, DO Utica Park Clinic, Hillcrest Medical Center (918) 291-5200 Primary Care
Claudia E. Cea, MD Utica Park Clinic, Hillcrest Medical Center (918) 392-7500 Primary Care, Family Medicine
Sarah E. Cox, DO Mercy Hospital (405) 378-5491 Primary Care
Sarah R. Elneser, DO Utica Park Clinic, Hillcrest Hospital South, Hillcrest Medical Center (918) 298-2603
Scott J. Fowler, DO Premier Family Care, Oklahoma Surgical Hospital (918) 258-9990 Primary Care
Rachel M. Franklin, MD OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-4311 Primary Care, Women’s Health, Preventive Medicine
Kyle B. French, MD INTEGRIS Health Family Care South, INTEGRIS Health Southwest Medical Center (405) 425-8190 Primary Care
Scott Anthony Ghere, DO Advance Family Care, Saint Francis Hospital (918) 921-5701 Primary Care
Jeffrey Dean Hodgden, MD SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital (405) 231-3000 Primary Care
Chitralekha Kathuria, MD Warren Clinic, Saint Francis Hospital South (918) 307-5525 Primary Care, Adolescent Medicine, Women’s Health
Chandan D. Lad, MD Warren Clinic, Saint Francis Hospital (918) 481-7700 Primary Care
Yen Dung T. Nguyen, MD SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital (405) 815-5060 Primary Care
Sabrina L. Schrader, DO SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital (405) 231-3000 Primary Care, Osteopathic Manipulation, Nutrition
Gastroenterology
Javid Fazili, MD OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (572) 244-0063 Liver Disease, Transplant Medicine-Liver, Hepatitis
Chintan A. Parikh, MD GI of Norman, Norman Regional Hospital (405) 515-2777 Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), Liver Disease
Amir Rumman, MD OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (572) 244-0063 Pancreatic/Biliary Endoscopy (ERCP), Pancreatic & Biliary Disease
George Salem, MD OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (572) 244-0052 Ulcerative Colitis/Crohn’s, Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Pooja Singhal, MD, FACG, DABOM Oklahoma Gastro Health and Wellness, Lakeside Women’s Hospital, SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital (405) 608-2772 Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Celiac Disease
Harvey A. Tatum, MD Utica Park Clinic, Hillcrest Medical Center (918) 582-6544 Crohn’s Disease, Hepatitis C, Liver Disease
William M. Tierney, MD OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-3445 Endoscopic Ultrasound, Colon Cancer, Pancreatic Disease
Gynecologic Oncology
Michael A. Gold, MD Oklahoma Cancer Specialists and Research Institute, Ascension St. John Medical Center (918) 505-3200 Ovarian Cancer, Uterine Cancer, Cervical Cancer
Laura Holman, MD OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-8707
Camille G. Jackson, MD Mercy Hospital (405) 749-7023
Robert S. Mannel, MD OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-8707 Laparoscopic Surgery, Gynecologic Cancers, Clinical Trials
Daron G. Street, MD Oklahoma Cancer Specialists and Research Institute, Ascension St. John Medical Center (918) 505-3200 Cervical Cancer Christina Washington, MD
OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-8707 Ovarian Cancer, Endometrial Cancer, Cervical Cancer
Hospice & Palliative Medicine
Roberto Salinas, MD OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (572) 244-0065 Geriatric Medicine
Infectious Disease
Douglas A. Drevets, MD OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (572) 244-0037 Infections-CNS, HIV/AIDS
David N. Scheck, MD Utica Park Clinic, Hillcrest Medical Center (918) 579-3875 HIV/AIDS
Internal Medicine
Sarah Andrews, DO Utica Park Clinic, Hillcrest Hospital South, Hillcrest Medical Center (918) 392-5600 Primary Care
L Rene Ballard, MD Mercy Hospital (405) 329-0121 Primary Care, Hypertension, Diabetes
Jonathan A. Bryan, DO Mercy Hospital (405) 329-0121 Primary Care
Robert Bernard Coye, MD MDVIP, Saint Francis Hospital (918) 615-4015 Primary Care
Lisa Farhood, MD INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center (405) 458-7654 Primary Care, Concierge Medicine,
Justin E. Fields, MD Mercy Hospital (405) 329-0121 Primary Care
Andrew Gordon, MD Ascension St. John Medical Center (918) 748-7600 Primary Care
Allen J. Hamaker, MD MDVIP, INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center (405) 795-5907 Primary Care
June P. Ivey, MD SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital (405) 272-5433 Primary Care, Preventive Medicine
Martina J. Jelley, MD Saint Francis Hospital South (918) 619-4100 Primary Care, Preventive Medicine, Women’s Health
Adrienne E. Kesinger, MD INTEGRIS Health Family Care South, INTEGRIS Health Southwest Medical Center, INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center (405) 425-8100 Primary Care, Newborn Care, Preventive Medicine
John M. Krodel, MD Mercy Hospital (405) 329-0121 Primary Care, Preventive Medicine, Heart Disease
Thomas H. Merrill, MD Mercy Hospital (405) 329-0121 Primary Care, Geriatric Medicine, Cholesterol/Lipid Disorders
Gary D. Ratliff, MD Norman Regional Hospital (405) 515-0380 Primary Care
Scott T. Shepherd, DO Shepherd Wellness (918) 216-0157 Primary Care
George Tardibono, MD OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center, Oklahoma Children’s Hospital at OU Health (405) 271-3445 Primary Care, Weight Management, Nutrition & Obesity
Interventional Cardiology
Ralph Douglas Ensley, MD Saint Francis Heart and Vascular Institute, Saint Francis Hospital (918) 494-8500 Cardiac Catheterization, Patent Foramen Ovale, Pacemakers/Defibrillators
Naji E. Karam, MD SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital (405) 272-8477 Echocardiography
Agha K. Khan, MD Oklahoma Heart Hospital South, Oklahoma Heart Hospital North (405) 608-3800 Angioplasty & Stent Placement, Nuclear Cardiology
Faisal Latif, MD SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital (405) 231-3737 Angioplasty & Stent Placement, Peripheral Vascular Disease
Maternal & Fetal Medicine
Charles P. Mirabile Jr, MD The Perinatal Center, INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center, Mercy Hospital (405) 748-4726 High-Risk Pregnancy
Stephanie L. Pierce, MD Oklahoma Children’s Hospital at OU Health, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-5400 High-Risk Pregnancy, Obesity in Pregnancy, Diabetes in Pregnancy
John R. Stanley III, MD The Perinatal Center, Mercy Hospital, INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center (405) 748-4726 High-Risk Pregnancy
Marvin Williams Jr., DO Oklahoma Children’s Hospital at OU Health, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-5400 High-Risk Pregnancy, Medical Complications of Pregnancy, Premature Labor
Medical Oncology
Jess Franklin Armor, MD Mercy Hospital (405) 751-4343 Hematology
Leonard Michael Bowen, MD SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital, Frank C. Love Cancer Institute (405) 228-7100
Janae Michelle Clapp, MD INTEGRIS Health Cancer Institute, INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center (405) 773-6400
Edwin L. Mccreary, MD Utica Park Clinic, Hillcrest Medical Center (918) 579-3850 Hematology
Ali H. Moussa, MD Oklahoma Cancer Specialists and Research Institute, Ascension St. John Medical Center (918) 505-3200 Leukemia & Lymphoma
Amara Nandikolla, MD Utica Park Clinic, Hillcrest Medical Center (918) 579-3850 Hematology
Thy K. Nguyen, MD SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital, Frank C. Love Cancer Institute (405) 228-7100
Jennifer O’Stasik, MD Utica Park Clinic, Hillcrest Medical Center (918) 579-3850 Hematology
Wajeeha Razaq, MD OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-7226 Breast Cancer
Craig Lee Reitz, MD Mercy Hospital (405) 751-4343 Lung Cancer, Lymphoma, Breast Cancer
Charles Taylor, MD Oklahoma Cancer Specialists and Research Institute, Ascension St. John Medical Center (918) 505-3200 Leukemia & Lymphoma, Solid Tumors, Hematologic Malignancies
Aleda Toma, MD Cancer Specialists of Oklahoma, SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital (405) 942-9200 Breast Cancer
Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine
Birju A. Shah, MD Oklahoma Children’s Hospital at OU Health (405) 271-5215
Nephrology
Mary Ann Cameron, MD Nephrology Specialists of Oklahoma (918) 712-5000 Kidney Stones
Benjamin D. Cowley Jr, MD OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-3445 Polycystic Kidney Disease, Transplant Medicine-Kidney, Transplant Medicine-Pancreas
Jose El-Amm, MD INTEGRIS Health Nazih Zuhdi Transplant Institute, INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center (405) 949-3816 Transplant Medicine-Kidney
Lukas Haragsim, MD OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-3445 Anemia in Chronic Kidney Disease
Pranay Kathuria, MD KidneyCare Oklahoma, Ascension St. John Medical Center (918) 747-5200 Chronic Kidney Disease, Hypertension, Glomerulonephritis
Sudhir K. Khanna, MD Kidney Specialists of Central Oklahoma, INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center (405) 942-5442
Satish Kumar, MD OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-3445 Chronic Kidney Disease, Hypertension, Kidney Failure
Neurological Surgery
Shon W. Cook, MD Keyhole Brain & Spine, Community Hospital South Campus, SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital (405) 310-6977 Neurovascular Surgery, Brain Tumors, Minimally Invasive Surgery
Caple Spence, MD INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center (405) 552-0401 Brain Tumors, Cerebrovascular Disease
Michael Thambuswamy, MD, MBA Oklahoma Spine & Brain Institute, Tulsa Spine & Specialty Hospital, Hillcrest Medical Center (918) 749-0762 Head Injury, Trauma, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Ryan A. Zengou, MD Warren Clinic, Saint Francis Hospital, Saint Francis Hospital South (918) 499-4000 Cerebrovascular Disease, Brain & Skull Base Tumors, Brain Tumors-Metastatic
Neurology
Nidhiben A. Anadani, MD OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-3635 Neuro-Immunology, Multiple Sclerosis, Neuromyelitis Optica (Devic’s Disease)
Eduardo A. De Sousa, MD Mercy Hospital (405) 302-2661 Electromyography (EMG), Neuromuscular Disorders, Peripheral Neuropathy
Bhrugav G. Raval, MD OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-3635 Epilepsy/Seizure Disorders
Obstetrics & Gynecology
Marilyn Appiah, DO SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital (405) 803-5130
John Martin Beal, DO Ascension St. John Medical Center (918) 748-7532
John L. Cherry, DO SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital (405) 803-5130 Women’s Health, Pregnancy
Grant R. Cox, MD OB/GYN Specialists Of Tulsa, Ascension St. John Medical Center, Oklahoma Surgical Hospital (918) 712-8700 Infertility, Gynecologic Surgery, Miscarriage-Recurrent
Kimberly J. Fletcher, DO INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center (405) 713-7403 Hospital Medicine
Judy Fong, MD Northwest Obstetrics and Gynecology, INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center (405) 943-6288 Adolescent Gynecology, Menopausal Management
Kathleen Heffron, MD The Women’s Health Group, Hillcrest Medical Center, Ascension St. John Medical Center (918) 293-6200 Gynecology Only
Laurel M. Jordan, DO Care for Women, Norman Regional Hospital (405) 793-2229
Kathryn L. Kramer, MD OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (572) 244-5239 Adolescent Gynecology, Women’s Health, Prenatal Care and Delivery
Daphne L. Lashbrook, MD Women’s Healthcare of Norman, Norman Regional Hospital (405) 360-1264 Hormonal Disorders, Robotic Hysterectomy
Kathryn Lindsay, MD OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (572) 244-5239 High-Risk Pregnancy, Contraception, Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery
Jessica Lutz, MD OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (572) 244-5239 Ultrasound, High-Risk Pregnancy, Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC)
Hoda Maarouf, MD Women’s Preventive Healthcare, INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center (405) 946-4735
Andrea J. Miller, DO INTEGRIS Health Medical Group Women’s Moore, INTEGRIS Health Southwest Medical Center (405) 425-8162
Kathleen Moore, MD OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-8707
Sumeeta Nanda, MD Women’s Preventive Healthcare, INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center (405) 946-4735
Gwendolyn Neel, MD OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-5239 Pregnancy, Gynecologic Pathology
Lydia D. Nightingale, MD Variety Care, INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 632-6688 Gynecology Only
Arthur Cole Nilson, DO Tulsa Women’s Health Care, Saint Francis Hospital (918) 299-5151 Laparoscopic Surgery
Leslie June Ollar-Shoemake, DO Women’s Healthcare of Norman, Norman Regional Hospital (405) 360-1264
Mukesh T. Parekh, MD Northwest Obstetrics and Gynecology, INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center (405) 943-6288 High-Risk Pregnancy, Pelvic Organ Prolapse Repair, Robotic Surgery
Nimish Parekh, MD Northwest Obstetrics and Gynecology, INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center (405) 943-6288
Alexandra Regens, MD OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (572) 244-5239
**Claire Reynolds, MD OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (572) 244-0203 Reproductive Endocrinology, Infertility, In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
Karen Sargent, MD Variety Care (405) 632-6688 Adolescent Gynecology, Menopausal Management, Pap Smear Abnormalities
Katie M. Smith, MD, MS OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (572) 244-5239 Obstetrics, Cervical Dysplasia, Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery
Ophthalmology
Ann Acers-Warn, MD OU Health Dean McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma Health Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-6060
Andrew K. Bailey, MD OU Health Dean McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma Health Center (405) 271-6060 Glaucoma, Cataract Surgery
Ray M. Balyeat, MD The Eye Institute, Ascension St. John Medical Center (918) 749-2220 Retina/Vitreous Surgery, Retinal Disorders, Retinal Detachment
John M. Bell, MD OU Health Dean McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma Health Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-1090 Cataract Surgery
Sandeep Bhatia, MD Oklahoma Medical Eye Group, Ascension St. John Medical Center, Hillcrest Hospital Henryetta (918) 747-2020
Todd A. Brockman, MD The Eye Institute, Ascension St. John Medical Center (918) 742-5513 Cataract Surgery
**Victoria A.Bugg, MD OU Health Dean McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma Health Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-6060 Comprehensive Ophthalmology, Premium Cataract Surgery
Thai Do, MD OU Health Dean McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma Health Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-6060 Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surgery, Oculoplastic Surgery, Eyelid Reconstruction
Brian Keith Firestone, MD Retina Consultants of Oklahoma, INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center (405) 691-0505 Eye Tumors/Cancer, Intraocular Lens, Cataract Surgery
Layne E. Goetzinger, MD OU Health Dean McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma Health Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-1090 Cataract Surgery
Marc A. Goldberg, MD The Eye Institute, Ascension St. John Medical Center (918) 584-4433 Cornea & External Eye Disease, PRK-Refractive Surgery, Cataract-Complex
Ben J. Harvey, MD OU Health Dean McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma Health Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-6060 Glaucoma, Cataract Surgery
Erin L. Holloman, MD Oculoplastic Surgeons of Oklahoma (405) 521-0041 Oculoplastic Surgery
David W. Jackson, MD Oklahoma Eye Associates, Summit Medical Center (405) 286-2688 Cataract Surgery, LASIK-Refractive Surgery
Mahmoud Khaimi, MD Glaucoma Surgeons of Oklahoma, Summit Medical Center (405) 920-5222 Glaucoma
Maria E. Lim, MD OU Health Dean McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma Health Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-6060 Amblyopia, Cataract-Pediatric, Glaucoma-Pediatric
Valerie Lobodiak, MD Triad Eye Institute, Ascension St. John Medical Center, Saint Francis Hospital (918) 252-2020 Comprehensive Ophthalmology, Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery, Refractive Lens Exchange Surgery
Andrew T. Melson, MD OU Health Dean McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma Health Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-6060 Neuro-Ophthalmology, Cataract Surgery, Strabismus-Adult & Pediatric
Rebecca K. Morgan, MD OU Health Dean McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma Health Center (405) 271-1793 Low Vision
Sumit K. Nanda, MD Oklahoma Retinal Consultants, INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center, Summit Medical Center (405) 948-2020 Retinal Disorders, Diabetic Eye Disease/Retinopathy, Macular Degeneration
Jila Noori, MD OU Health Dean McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma Health Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-6060 Uveitis, Retinal Disorders, Macular Disease/Degeneration
Anil D. Patel, MD OU Health Dean McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma Health Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-6060 Neuro-Ophthalmology
Ensa Pillow, MD Oculoplastic Surgeons of Oklahoma (405) 521-0041 Oculoplastic Surgery
Ronald Luke Rebenitsch, MD ClearSight LASIK (405) 733-2020
Kamran Mohammed Riaz, MD OU Health Dean McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma Health Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-6060 Cornea & External Eye Disease, LASIK Surgery, Cataract Surgery
James M. Richard, MD Children’s Eye Care, INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center (405) 751-2020 Pediatric Ophthalmology, Strabismus-Adult & Pediatric, Eye Muscle Disorders
Steven R. Sarkisian Jr., MD Oklahoma Eye Surgeons, OneCore Health (405) 943-4413 Glaucoma, Cataract Surgery
Vinay A. Shah, MD Retina Consultants of Oklahoma, INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center (405) 691-0505 Retina/Vitreous Surgery, Diabetic Eye Disease/Retinopathy, Macular Disease/Degeneration
Rhea L. Siatkowski, MD OU Health Dean McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma Health Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-1095 Cornea Transplant, Trauma, Cornea & Refractive Surgery
R Michael Siatkowski, MD OU Health Dean McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma Health Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-1094 Pediatric Ophthalmology, Neuro-Ophthalmology, Retinopathy of Prematurity
Gregory L. Skuta, MD OU Health Dean McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma Health Center (405) 271-6060 Glaucoma
Deena A. Sylvester, MD Sylvester Eye Care & Aesthetics, Mercy Hospital (405) 607-8948 Cataract Surgery, Eyelid Surgery, Botox
Diana Tamboli, MD Tamboli Eyelid and Facial Plastic Surgery (405) 708-7876 Cosmetic Surgery-Eyes, Oculoplastic Surgery
Jeremy F. Tan, MD OU Health Dean McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma Health Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-6060 Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery
Anika Tandon, MD Pediatric & Family Eye Care, Saint Francis Hospital, Tulsa Spine & Specialty Hospital (918) 949-9898 Pediatric Ophthalmology, Eye Muscle Disorders-Child & Adult, Neuro-Ophthalmology
Deana S. Watts, MD OU Health Dean McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma Health Center (405) 271-1090 Cataract Surgery
Thomas C. Wolf, MD Eye Care Specialists of Oklahoma, INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center (405) 737-1000 Corneal Disease
Tammy L. Yanovitch, MD OU Health Dean McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma Health Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-1094 Pediatric Ophthalmology, Strabismus, Amblyopia
Orthopaedic Surgery
James L. Bond, MD Norman Regional Hospital, Ortho Central (405) 360-6764 Hip & Knee Surgery, Shoulder Surgery, Sports Medicine
Bradford Boone, MD Advanced Orthopedics of Oklahoma, Oklahoma Surgical Hospital, Saint Francis Hospital (918) 494-2665 Sports Medicine, Elbow Surgery, Knee Surgery
Seth M. Boydstun, MD McBride Orthopedic Hospital (405) 230-9270 Sports Medicine, Fracture Care, Pediatric Sports Medicine
Brett A. Braly, MD The Spine Clinic, Community Hospital North Campus (405) 424-5415 Minimally Invasive Spinal Surgery, Spinal Disorders
Brian A. Chalkin, DO The Orthopaedic Center, Ascension St. John Medical Center, Hillcrest Medical Center (918) 582-6800 Hand & Wrist Surgery, Elbow Surgery
Arthur Conley, MD Sonospine, Oklahoma Surgical Hospital (888) 957-7463 Spinal Surgery, Minimally Invasive Spinal Surgery
Chad E. Crawley, DO Utica Park Clinic, Hillcrest Medical Center, Hillcrest Hospital South (918) 579-2300 Hip & Knee Surgery
Scott M. De la Garza, MD SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital, SSM Health Bone & Joint Hospital at St. Anthony (405) 218-2530 Spinal Surgery
Christopher Espinoza, MD McBride Orthopedic Hospital, INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center (405) 230-9270 Knee Replacement, Shoulder Replacement, Arthroscopic Surgery-Hip
Charles H. Funderburk Jr, MD McBride Orthopedic Hospital (405) 230-9270 Hand Surgery
Chad D. Hanson, DO Oklahoma State University Medical Center (918) 631-8877 ACL Reconstruction, Arthroscopic Surgery-Shoulder, Arthroscopic Surgery-Hip
Bryan J. Hawkins, MD Advanced Orthopedics of Oklahoma, Oklahoma Surgical Hospital, Saint Francis Hospital (918) 494-2665 Foot & Ankle Surgery, Arthroscopic Surgery, Sports Medicine
Randall L. Hendricks, MD Advanced Orthopedics of Oklahoma, Oklahoma Surgical Hospital, Saint Francis Hospital (918) 494-2665 Spinal Surgery, Arthroscopic Surgery, Minimally Invasive Surgery
Thomas P. Lehman, MD OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center, SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital (405) 271-2663 Trauma, Hand Surgery
Donald W. McGinnis, MD McBride Orthopedic Hospital (405) 230-9270 Sports Medicine, Sports Injuries, Hand & Upper Extremity Surgery
Kyle McGivern, DO Optima Orthopedics, Oklahoma Surgical Hospital, INTEGRIS Health Southwest Medical Center (405) 445-0155 Hip Replacement, Knee Replacement
Yogesh Mittal, MD The Orthopaedic Center, Ascension St. John Medical Center (918) 582-6800 Hip & Knee Replacement, Robotic Surgery, Arthroscopic Surgery-Knee
Charles B. Pasque, MD OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-2663 Arthroscopic Surgery, Shoulder & Knee Surgery, Hip Surgery
Corey E. Ponder, MD SSM Health Bone & Joint Hospital at St. Anthony (405) 218-2530 Joint Replacement, Reconstructive Surgery, Arthritis
Timothy A. Puckett, MD OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-2663 Spinal Surgery
David Saxton, MD McBride Orthopedic Hospital, INTEGRIS Health Edmond Hospital (405) 230-9270 Sports Medicine, Arthroscopy- Elbow, Diagnostic arthroscopy of ankle joint
David C. Teague, MD OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-2663 Trauma, Fractures-Complex, Pelvic & Acetabular Fractures
Thomas K. Tkach, MD McBride Orthopedic Hospital (405) 230-9270 Joint Reconstruction
Jeremy Woodson, MD McBride Orthopedic Hospital (405) 230-9270 Knee Replacement, Shoulder Replacement, Shoulder & Elbow Surgery
Jake R. Worsham, MD Advanced Orthopedics of Oklahoma – Tulsa CityPlex Clinic, Oklahoma Surgical Hospital, Saint Francis Hospital (918) 494-2665 Sports Medicine, Ankle Surgery, Hand Surgery
Otolaryngology
Blake L. Anderson, MD Utica Park Clinic, Hillcrest Hospital South, Hillcrest Medical Center (918) 459-8824 Ear Disorders, Nasal & Sinus Disorders, Throat Disorders
Wayne E. Berryhill, MD Oklahoma Otolaryngology Associates, Norman Regional Hospital, Community Hospital South Campus (405) 364-2666 Neurotology
Keith F. Clark, Md, PhD SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital (405) 272-6027 Airway Reconstruction, Voice Disorders, Vocal Cord Disorders-Botox Therapy
Shannon Kyle Kaneaster, MD Oklahoma Otolaryngology Associates, INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center (405) 242-6887 Allergy, Sinus Disorders, Sinus Disorders/Surgery
Greg Krempl, MD OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-7559 Head & Neck Cancer, Skin Cancer-Head & Neck, Oral Cancer
Kibwei A. McKinney, MD SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital (405) 272-8435 Allergy, Nasal & Sinus Disorders, Rhinosinusitis
Jeremy A. Moore, MD Oklahoma Otolaryngology Associates, Norman Regional Hospital (405) 364-2666
Christopher A. Paskowski, MD Oklahoma Otolaryngology Associates, Norman Regional Hospital (405) 364-2666 Pediatric & Adult Otolaryngology, Nasal & Sinus Disorders, Hearing & Balance Disorders
Rusha J. Patel, MD OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-7559 Head & Neck Surgery, Reconstructive Microvascular Surgery
Jonathan M. Pillow, MD Oklahoma Otolaryngology Associates, Mercy Hospital, INTEGRIS Health Edmond Hospital (405) 562-1810 Sinusitis
Steven V. Richards, MD Oklahoma Otolaryngology Associates, Mercy Hospital (405) 755-1930
Jose Sanclement, MD OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-7559 Microvascular Surgery, Head & Neck Cancer & Surgery
Nilesh Vasan, MD OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-7559 Skin Cancer-Head & Neck, Oral Cancer, Throat Cancer
Kar-Ming A. Fung, MD, PhD OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-5653 Neuro-Pathology
Pediatric Endocrinology
Laura J. Chalmers, MD Harold Hamm Diabetes Center, Oklahoma State University Medical Center (918) 619-4803 Sexual Differentiation Disorders, Growth/Development Disorders, Obesity
Kruti B. Shah, MD Oklahoma Children’s Hospital at OU Health, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-3303 Diabetes, Growth Disorders, Pubertal Disorders
Pediatric Gastroenterology
Muhammad Adnan Altaf, MD Oklahoma Children’s Hospital at OU Health, Mercy Hospital (405) 271-6549 Gastrointestinal Motility Disorders, Gastrointestinal Functional Disorders, Eosinophilic Esophagitis
Muhammad Safwan Riaz, MD Oklahoma Children’s Hospital at OU Health, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-6549 Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Pediatric Hematology-Oncology
Ashley Baker, MD Oklahoma Children’s Hospital at OU Health, Jimmy Everest Center (405) 271-4412 Cancer Diagnosis & Treatment, Sickle Cell Disease
Rene Y. McNall-Knapp, MD Oklahoma Children’s Hospital at OU Health, Jimmy Everest Center (405) 271-4412 Brain Tumors, Neuro-Oncology
Laura Rooms, MD Oklahoma Children’s Hospital at OU Health, Jimmy Everest Center (405) 271-4412
Nighat F. Mehdi, MD Oklahoma Children’s Hospital at OU Health (405) 271-2234 Cystic Fibrosis
Joseph N. Walter, MD Warren Clinic, Saint Francis Children’s Hospital (918) 502-2000
Edward G. Ford, MD Warren Clinic, Saint Francis Children’s Hospital (918) 494-9450 Critical Care
Pediatric Otolaryngology
**Vikram Ramjee, MD Oklahoma Children’s Hospital at OU Health, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center, Pediatric Ear, Nose & Throat and Audiology Clinic (405) 271-2662 Airway Reconstruction, Chronic Hear Disease, Hearing Loss
Pediatric Urology
Dominic C. Frimberger, MD Oklahoma Children’s Hospital at OU Health (405) 271-3800
Bradley Kropp, MD OKC Kids Urology, INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center, McBride Orthopedic Hospital (405) 286-0755 Neurogenic Bladder, Bladder Exstrophy, Bladder Reconstruction
Oren F. Miller, MD Urologic Specialists of Oklahoma, Ascension St. John Medical Center, Ascension St. John Broken Arrow (918) 749-8765 Voiding Dysfunction
Adam J. Rensing, MD Oklahoma Children’s Hospital at OU Health, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-3800
Pediatrics
Noor Jihan Abdul-Haqq, MD Peace of Mind Pediatrics, INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center (405) 602-5166 Primary Care
Lamiaa Hassan Ali, MD OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (918) 619-4300 Primary Care
Reba A. Beard, MD Sunrise Pediatrics, Norman Regional Hospital (405) 759-4155 Primary Care
Terence Leonard Carey, MD The Carey Clinic, Hillcrest Hospital South, Saint Francis Children’s Hospital (918) 481-8100 Allergy, Asthma, Pulmonary Disease
Kimberly Edgmon, MD Village Center Pediatrics, Mercy Hospital (405) 726-8000 Primary Care
James E. Fields, MD Premiere Pediatrics, Norman Regional Hospital (405) 364-6432 Primary Care, Preventive Medicine
Richard A. Gordon, MD Utica Park Clinic, Hillcrest Medical Center, Saint Francis Hospital (918) 574-0150 Primary Care
Betty Harmon, MD Sunrise Pediatrics, Norman Regional Hospital (405) 759-4155
Casey Hester, MD Northwest Pediatrics of Oklahoma City, Mercy Hospital, Lakeside Women’s Hospital (405) 755-2230 Primary Care
Donna Jackson, MD Norman Pediatric Associates, Norman Regional Hospital (405) 321-5114 Primary Care
Tammy R. Maschino, MD Village Center Pediatrics, Mercy Hospital (405) 726-8000 Primary Care
Julie M. Morrow, DO SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital (405) 272-7337 Primary Care
Sheela Vardey, MD Utica Park Clinic, Hillcrest Medical Center, Saint Francis Hospital (918) 574-0150 Primary Care
Victor T. Wilson, MD Caring Pediatrics, Norman Regional Hospital (405) 360-7337 Primary Care, ADD/ADHD, Asthma
Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
Rita M. Hancock, MD 1601 Southwest 89th Street, Suite E200, Community Hospital South Campus, INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center (405) 900-5300 Pain Management, Musculoskeletal Medicine, Electromyography (EMG)
Jonathan Stone, DO Oklahoma Spine and Musculoskeletal Medicine, Community Hospital South Campus (405) 601-5899 Pain-Interventional Techniques
Plastic Surgery
Anureet Bajaj, MD Bajaj Plastic Surgery, SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital (405) 810-8448 Breast Surgery, Breast Augmentation, Breast Implants
Paul R. Callegari, MD 6585 South Yale Avenue, Suite 1050, Saint Francis Hospital, Ascension St. John Medical Center (918) 494-8200 Body Contouring after Weight Loss, Cosmetic Surgery-Face & Breast, Hand Surgery
Christian El Amm, MD OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (572) 244-0067 Craniofacial Surgery, Cosmetic Surgery
Robert Alan Hein, MD 14024 Quail Pointe Drive (405) 286-4333
Justin Michael Jones, MD Jones Plastic Surgery, INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center (405) 848-3459 Cosmetic Surgery-Body, Cosmetic Surgery-Breast, Liposuction & Body Contouring
Kamal T. Sawan, MD Sawan Surgical Aesthetics, Summit Medical Center (405) 285-7660 Body Contouring after Weight Loss
Pulmonary Disease
Ajay R. Bedekar, MD Utica Park Clinic, Hillcrest Medical Center (918) 579-3270
Radiation Oncology
Ozer Algan, MD OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-5641 Brain Tumors, Genitourinary Cancer, Breast Cancer
Shripal K. Bhavsar, MD INTEGRIS Health Cancer Institute, INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center, INTEGRIS Health Southwest Medical Center (877) 811-4246
Christopher Bozarth, MD OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-5641
John Han-Chih Chang, MD Oklahoma Proton Center, INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center (405) 544-3980 Proton Beam Therapy, Pediatric Cancers, Head & Neck Cancer
Michael Confer, MD OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-5641 Pediatric Cancers, Central Nervous System Cancer, Proton Beam Therapy
Tyler Gunter, MD OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-5641 Thoracic Cancers, Genitourinary Cancer, Central Nervous System Cancer
Diane Heaton, MD Hillcrest Medical Center (918) 579-8200
Christina Henson, MD OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-5641 Palliative Care, Head & Neck Cancer, Breast Cancer
Andrea Johnston, MD OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-5641 Proton Beam Therapy, Gamma Knife Radiosurgery
M. Connie Nguyen, MD Oklahoma Cancer Specialists and Research Institute, Ascension St. John Medical Center (918) 505-3200 Stereotactic Radiosurgery
Kiran Prabhu, MD INTEGRIS Health Cancer Institute, INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center, INTEGRIS Health Southwest Medical Center (405) 773-6530 Stereotactic Radiosurgery, Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy, Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy (IMRT)
J Spencer Thompson, MD OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-5641 Gynecologic Cancers, Pediatric Cancers, Palliative Care
Reproductive Endocrinology/Infertility
Heather R. Burks, MD OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (572) 244-0203 Infertility-IVF, Ovarian Failure, Menstrual Disorders
LaTasha B. Craig, MD OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (572) 244-0203 Miscarriage-Recurrent, Ovarian Failure, Menstrual Disorders
Michael Blake Evans, DO OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (572) 244-0203
Karl R. Hansen, MD, PhD OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (572) 244-0203 Infertility-IVF, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, Endometriosis
Robert A. Wild, MD, PhD OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (572) 244-5239 Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
Rheumatology
Manuel J. Calvin, MD Warren Clinic, Saint Francis Hospital (918) 495-2685 Autoimmune Disease, Arthritis
John Goetzinger, MD Rheumatology Associates of Oklahoma, Community Hospital South Campus, Northwest Surgical Hospital (405) 608-8060
Latisha Heinlen, MD Rheumatology Associates of Oklahoma, Community Hospital South Campus, Northwest Surgical Hospital (405) 608-8060
Michael A. Malloy, MD Warren Clinic, Saint Francis Hospital (918) 495-2685 Autoimmune Disease
Ira N. Targoff, MD OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center, Oklahoma City VA Medical Center (405) 271-3445 Polymyositis, Dermatomyositis, Arthritis
Aikaterini (Katherine) Thanou, MD OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-3445 Autoimmune Disease, Lupus/SLE
Amanda Titus, MD Rheumatology Associates of Oklahoma, Community Hospital South Campus, Northwest Surgical Hospital (405) 608-8060 Arthritis, Autoimmune Disease
Sports Medicine
James Barrett, MD OU Health Physicians Family Medicine Center Tulsa, OU Health Edmond Medical Center, McBride Orthopedic Hospital (572) 244-0065 Primary Care Sports Medicine, Sports Injuries
LaMont E. Cavanagh, MD OU Health Physicians Family Medicine Center Tulsa, Hillcrest Medical Center (918) 619-4600 Primary Care Sports Medicine, Family Medicine
Brian R. Coleman, MD OU Health Physicians Family Medicine Center OKC, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (572) 244-0065 Musculoskeletal Ultrasound, Sports Medicine
Seethal R. Madhavarapu, MD SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital (405) 218-2530 Musculoskeletal Injuries, Fractures, Ultrasound Guided Procedures
Surgery
Morgan Bonds, MD OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-1632 Surgical Oncology, Minimally Invasive Surgery, Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
Joseph Carlo Buendia, DO Mercy Hospital (405) 749-4231 Abdominal Wall Reconstruction
Eugene Dickens, MD Utica Park Clinic, Hillcrest Medical Center (918) 599-8200 Hernia, General Surgery
Christopher W. Lentz, MD INTEGRIS Paul Silverstein Burn Center, INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center (405) 552-2857 Burn Care, Reconstructive Surgery, Critical Care
Fernando Mier Giraud, MD OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (572) 244-0036 Gastrointestinal Metabolic Surgery, Bariatric/Obesity Surgery, Minimally Invasive Surgery
Alexander Raines, MD OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center, OU Health Edmond Medical Center (572) 244-0074 Hernia, Gallbladder Surgery, Robotic Surgery
Loyal Stierlen, DO INTEGRIS Health Southwest Medical Center, INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center (405) 636-7900 Gallbladder Surgery, Minimally Invasive Surgery, Robotic Surgery
Sara Suthers, MD Mercy Hospital (405) 749-7023 Breast Surgery
John V. Tedesco, DO, FACOS, FAACS Green Country Surgical Arts, Saint Francis Hospital (918) 600-0026 Breast Surgery, Breast Augmentation, Breast Lift
Surgical Oncology
Nicole Sharp Cottrell, MD INTEGRIS Health Breast Surgery Clinic, INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center, Lakeside Women’s Hospital (405) 552-0400 Breast Cancer & Surgery, Breast Disease, Minimally Invasive Surgery
Barish H. Edil, MD OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-1632 Pancreatic Cancer, Minimally Invasive Surgery, Gastrointestinal Cancer
Denise L. Rable, MDThe Oklahoma Breast Center, Norman Regional Hospital (405) 307-2623 Breast Cancer & Surgery, Breast Disease
Thoracic & Cardiac Surgery
R Mark Bodenhamer, MD Oklahoma Heart Hospital North, Oklahoma Heart Hospital South (405) 608-3800
Harold MacDonald Burkhart, MD Oklahoma Children’s Hospital at OU Health, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-4631 Pediatric Cardiothoracic Surgery
John D. Randolph, MD Oklahoma Heart Hospital North, Oklahoma Heart Hospital South (405) 608-3800 Cardiovascular Surgery, Heart Valve Surgery, Coronary Artery Surgery
Ajit K. Tharakan, MD Oklahoma Heart Institute, Hillcrest Medical Center (918) 749-6400 Heart Valve Surgery, Lung Surgery
Urogynecology/Female Pelvic Medicine & Reconstructive Surgery
Lieschen Quiroz, MD OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-9493 Incontinence-Urinary, Pelvic Floor Disorders, Pelvic Organ Prolapse Repair
Urology
Robert Bruce, MD Urologic Specialists of Oklahoma, Ascension St. John Medical Center, Oklahoma Surgical Hospital (918) 749-8765 Minimally Invasive Surgery, Prostate Benign Disease (BPH), Kidney Stones
Michael S. Cookson, MD OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-4088 Urologic Cancer, Bladder Cancer, Prostate Cancer
Paul Guy Hagood, MD Utica Park Clinic, Hillcrest Medical Center, Hillcrest Hospital South (918) 579-3130
Jonathan Heinlen, MD OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-4088 Prostate Cancer, Kidney Cancer, Bladder Cancer
Scott E. Litwiller, MD Urologic Specialists of Oklahoma, Ascension St. John Medical Center, Oklahoma Surgical Hospital (918) 749-8765 Urogynecology, Incontinence
Sanjay Patel, MD OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center, OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center (405) 271-4088
Mohammad Ramadan, MD SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital (405) 772-4533 Urologic Cancer, Robotic Surgery
You don’t have to travel far to find summer adventures. Just beyond Oklahoma’s borders, easy escapes are waiting. From mountain towns and desert sunsets to lake weekends and culture-filled cities, these neighboring states deliver big experiences without a massive price tag. Whether you’re planning a quick solo reset, a family adventure or a romantic road trip, consider this your guide to getting away.
Arkansas
Mount Magazine Saint Park, Logan County; photo courtesy Arkansas Tourism
You have until July 27 to take in America 250: Common Threads which is the kind of special exhibition visitors have come to expect from the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville. The exhibition commemorates the events of 1776 and reflects on 250 years of American art and civic participation. An early engraving of the Declaration of Independence anchors a group of historic documents displayed alongside textiles, paintings, toys and other works from 1776 to the present. It also explores the symbols artists turn to when celebrating or commenting on the United States: George Washington’s many faces, eagles appearing across books, baskets and coverlets, flags seen as quilts or as documentation of the moon landing, according to publicists for the museum that showcases art, architecture and nature. General admission to the museum is free, but tickets are required for this and other special exhibitions.
Arkansas, which calls itself “The Natural State,” boasts that Mount Magazine is “at the peak of the state park experience.” It’s the state’s highest point at 2,753 feet, and people come for the sweeping views alone, but there is much to see and do. Mount Magazine State Park is within the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests, and a destination for mountain biking, horseback riding, backpacking, ATV riding, rock climbing and hang gliding.
The Lodge at Mount Magazine features 60 guest rooms and offers breathtaking views of Petit Jean River Valley and Blue Mountain Lake.
Mount Magazine Saint Park, Logan County; photo courtesy Arkansas Tourism
For a more urban experience, check out Dickson Street, known as the Heartbeat of Fayetteville and home to dozens of restaurants, boutiques, galleries and bars, with live music nearly every night of the week. Tucked into the Ozark Mountains and known by the locals as “Favoriteville,” it’s the home of the University of Arkansas with its unsurpassed Razorback spirit and a haven for makers and artists.
Hot Springs National Park, with its nine architecturally significant bathhouses, is a park in the middle of the town of Hot Springs. The ancient thermal springs, mountain views, geology, forested hikes and downtown streets filled with restaurants and shops make Hot Springs a unique and beautiful destination.
Colorado
There’s no such thing as an off-season at Rocky Mountain National Park. It’s open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, only closing when the weather is extreme. The warm-weather months are quite busy, but so are winter weekends, according to the National Park Service, and during the summer you might need a timed entry reservation. Campground reservations should also be made well in advance.
Options for enjoying the fresh air and stunning alpine scenery include hiking, wildlife viewing, ranger-led programs, horseback riding and scenic drives.
Visitors to the ever-popular town of Durango can hop on the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and travel through the San Juan National Forest on a coal-fired, steam-powered 1880s locomotive. See wildlife, waterfalls and majestic peaks from the same tracks traveled more than a century ago by miners, cowboys and settlers of the Old West.
Great Sand Dunes National Park, Mosca; photo courtesy Visit Colorado/Lumenati Productions
The tallest dunes in North America are the centerpiece of Great Sand Dunes National Park, in a diverse landscape of grasslands, wetlands, forests, alpine lakes and tundra. The dunes and much of the adjacent Sangre de Cristo Mountains are federally designated wilderness.
At the Great Sand Dunes, visitors can hike, sled, splash in Medano Creek or just play in the sand. The park offers peace and quiet, and dark night skies allow visitors to see countless stars with very little light pollution.
Among Denver’s many urban charms is Union Station, a beloved landmark in the heart of Lower Downtown. It’s a celebrated destination for gathering, dining, shopping, raising a glass, exploring the city or staying the night at The Crawford Hotel.
There’s plenty to do in the mountain town of Aspen, and the Maroon Bells are the most popular summer destination, according to the Aspen Chamber of Commerce.
Standing at more than 14,000 feet, the Maroon Bells is a series of distinctively bell-shaped, wine-colored peaks of mudstone, carved out over 300 million years. They are the most-photographed mountains in North America, according to the Chamber of Commerce.
During peak season there may be crowds, so the Chamber suggests visiting mid-week, arriving with the first bus of the day.
Gateway Arch National Park in St. Louis is about so much more than the tram ride to the top of the 630-feet-tall monument to Westward expansion.
There’s a free museum about the role of St. Louis in Thomas Jefferson’s vision of building a unified continental nation. National Park Service rangers offer guided programs, and there’s a documentary about the building of the 63-story arch completed in 1965. The park is near the Mississippi River, so allow an hour for a riverboat cruise.
The Old Courthouse Museum, listed in the National Park Service’s National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom, was the site of the first two trials of the pivotal Dred Scott case in 1847 and 1850. It was also where Virginia Minor’s case for a woman’s right to vote came to trial in the 1870s.
Aquarium at the Boardwalk, Branson; photo courtesy Visit Missouri
And yes, you can ride the tram, with ticket prices ranging from $13 to $19, to the observation deck up top. The ride is 4 minutes up and 3 minutes down, the Park Service says. Rides sell out on busy days, so buy tickets in advance at gatewayarch.com.
Also in St. Louis is the 1,300-acre Forest Park, dedicated in 1876 and offering woodlands and waterways, prairies and awe-inspiring landscapes. It’s home to the free-admission St. Louis Zoo, which cares for 12,500 animals encompassing 450 species.
In central and southeast Missouri, Branson, the Silver Dollar City theme park and the Lake of the Ozarks are perennial favorites known for adding new attractions every year.
Kansas City offers an urban getaway with plenty of green space. Among the attractions with beautiful grounds is the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Featuring 34,500 pieces from ceramic objects found in ancient Chinese tombs to whimsical sculptures of badminton birdies, the collection spans more than 5,000 years of humanity.
The Arabia Steamboat Museum, which has delighted visitors for more than 30 years, will be closing its Kansas City location in November. Founders hope to find a new home elsewhere. The museum features much of the 200-ton cargo of the steamship that sank in the Missouri River in 1856 and was recovered in 1988, including clothing, dishes, tools, guns, toys and the world’s oldest pickles.
Nebraska
Once you’re in Nebraska, according to the state’s tourism commission, “you’ll discover that the Great Plains aren’t so plain after all.”
Visit Nebraska divides the state into six regions, plus the metro area of Omaha and Lincoln. If you are all about scenery and the great outdoors, you can’t go wrong with the Sandhills region in the north-central part of the state.
Writer Mary Harner says that in the Sandhills, the “star-filled skies, unobstructed views of the horizon, and places free of sounds made by people – notably traffic – offer a sense of wildness that is rare in so much of the world.”
Towering 800 feet above the North Platte River, Scotts Bluff has served as a landmark for peoples from Native Americans to emigrants on the Oregon, California and Mormon Trails, to modern travelers, according to the National Park Service.
“Rich with geological and paleontological history as well as human history, there is much to discover while exploring the 3,000 acres of Scotts Bluff National Monument,” the NPS says.
Chimney Rock, Morrill County, Neb.; photo by Neal AlfanoMonument Marathon, Scottsbluff; photos courtesy Nebraska Tourism
William Henry Jackson is best known as the first person to photograph the wonders of Yellowstone, and Scotts Bluff National Monument houses the world’s largest collection of his original sketches, paintings and photographs. Due to limited space, a small selection of his works is on display in the Visitor Center.
Sanning Interstate 80 at Exit 275 in Kearney, the Archway Museum stands as a monument to the enduring spirit of America. Exhibits narrate the story of the people who played a role in shaping the nation, starting with the Oregon Trail and traveling through pioneers and prairie wagons to diners and drive-ins of the 1950s. After your tour, try your hand at panning for gold or browse the massive gift shop.
Designated as a National Historic Site in 1956, Chimney Rock and the Ethel S. and Christopher J. Abbott Visitor Center near Bayard are maintained and operated by the Nebraska State Historical Society.
The historical society invites you to “feel the awe and curiosity the pioneers experienced when they saw the most famous landmark on the Oregon, California, and Mormon Trails.”
New Mexico
Every corner of New Mexico lives up to its description as The Land of Enchantment, and especially beloved is the capital city of Santa Fe. Santa Fe calls itself The City Different, touting its historic sites and museums, hundreds of art galleries, cultural diversity, adobe-style architecture and perhaps the most colorful culinary scene in the nation. At the heart of the city is the Santa Fe Plaza, a gathering place for shopping, dining, lodging and cultural festivals.
The nation’s oldest building, the Palace of the Governors, has stood on the Plaza since the early 1600s when it was erected as the seat of the Spanish colonial government. Native American tribal citizens hold a market every day beneath the building’s portal, where visitors can buy jewelry, pottery and textiles directly from the artisans.
Pecos National Historical Park, San Miguel County; photo courtesy New Mexico TrueWhite Sands Balloon Festival, Tularosa Basin; photo courtesy New Mexico True
Will Rogers dubbed Carlsbad Caverns the “Grand Canyon with a roof on it.” National Geographic calls the geologic wonder in the Chihuahuan Desert “one of the deepest, largest, and most ornate caverns ever found.” Some visitors think the park’s most spectacular sight is when the quarter-million Brazilian (Mexican) free-tailed bats that summer in the cave spiral up from the entrance to hunt for insects every night, according to National Geographic.
White Sands National Park in the Tularosa Basin preserves a major portion of the world’s largest gypsum dunefield.
The powdery, white gypsum dunes not only look like snow, they behave like it as well, according to the National Park Service. Sledding down the slip face of dunes is a popular activity at the park. Most sledders use waxed, plastic snow-saucers, which can be purchased at the park gift shop.
Yet another natural wonder administered by the National Park Service is Bandelier National Monument near Los Alamos, which protects more than 33,000 acres of ruggedly beautiful canyon and mesa country. Petroglyphs, dwellings carved into the soft rock cliffs and standing masonry walls pay tribute to the early days of a culture that still survives in the surrounding communities.
Guided tours are available throughout the day at the Taos Pueblo, where people have lived for more than 1,000 years. About 150 people from Pueblo communities continue to live within the Pueblo full time.
White Sands National Park, Tularosa Basin; photo courtesy New Mexico True
Arizona
The National Park Service describes the Grand Canyon as “one of the most spectacular examples of erosion anywhere in the world – a mile-deep canyon unmatched in the incomparable vistas it offers visitors from both the north and south rims.” If it’s not on your bucket list it should be, as no photo or video can truly capture the 3-D vistas at Grand Canyon National Park.
Entirely within the state of Arizona, the park encompasses 278 miles of the Colorado River and adjacent uplands. And it’s located on the ancestral homelands of 11 present-day tribal communities, according to the NPS.
Aside from just taking in the view, activities include hiking, bicycling, stargazing, rail adventures, mule trips and guided learning.
Antelope Canyon, Navajo Nation reservation; photo by Donald NelsonAntelope Canyon, Navajo Nation reservation; photo courtesy Arizona Office of Tourism Saguaro National Park, Pima County, NM; photo by Richard Daley
The Colorado River also created the spectacular Horseshoe Bend, a much-photographed landmark near Page. After an accessible 1.5 mile walk from the parking lot, you will stand at an overlook that is 1,000 feet above the Colorado River as it winds its way in a horseshoe shape through a red-hued sandstone canyon.
Sedona’s world-wide reputation as a spiritual mecca and energy hot spot draws healers, artists and spiritual guides who offer holistic approaches that cater to the mind, body and spirit. Visit Sedona invites you to embrace both adventure and contemplation, in a charming small town surrounded by some of the best hiking trails around.
Shops and art galleries specialize in traditional Western, contemporary Southwestern and Native American art. From bronze statues to jewelry, Sedona’s gallery centers offer a variety of home décor, garden accents and kitchenware. For the outdoor enthusiast, several stores offer outdoor gear, maps and mountain bikes. Sedona’s New Age shops specialize in metaphysical and spiritual goods such as crystals, books and aromatherapy oils.
Tucson is home to the nation’s largest cacti. The giant saguaro, the universal symbol of the American west, is found only in a small portion of the United States, according to the National Park Service. It’s protected by Saguaro National Park, to the east and west of Tucson.
Horseshoe Bend, Page, Ariz.; photo by Sreenath Kottapuzhackal
Texas
Like many cities in the Dallas-Fort Worth metro, Lewisville offers urban amenities along with a taste of the Old West and the modern Southwest. Hugging the southern shore of Lewisville Lake, it’s within easy reach of family-friendly activities ranging from fine and cultural arts to go-carts and bowling. Authentic historic buildings anchoring Old Town Lewisville date back to the 1880s and provide the backdrop for dining, shopping, drinking and cultural entertainment.
Lewisville Western Days takes place the last weekend of September with live music on six stages, a tamale- eating championship, food trucks and Western-themed activities.
The ICompete is an immersive augmented reality experience featuring simulated golf, baseball, digitized darts, axe-throwing and more.
Space Center Houston is that city’s most popular tourist attraction, and your visit can go more smoothly if you do some prep work.
The Alamo, San Antonio; photo courtesy Visit San Antonio Downtown Houston, photo by Jaime Hudson
Tram tours are recommended, especially for the visit to Historic Mission Control. Building 9, a stop on another tram tour, is where astronauts train for missions and where scientists are developing the next generation of space exploration vehicles. Visitors traverse a catwalk to view the training from above. Tickets for the tram tours should be booked well in advance. Space Center Houston is the nonprofit that operates the spacious visitor center at NASA’s Johnson Space Center. Mission Control, from which NASA led the Gemini and Apollo missions, has been recreated right down to the loaded ashtrays on the desks of the scientists who directed the lunar landing on July 20, 1969.
If you happen to be headed west on Route 66 during this centennial year of the famed highway, Palo Duro Canyon near Amarillo is worth a detour.
Also known as the Grand Canyon of Texas, it’s the second-largest canyon in the nation, and much of it lies within Palo Duro Canyon State Park. It’s a beautiful place to visit year-round but is busiest during the summer, when the TEXAS Outdoor Musical is presented on Tuesdays through Sundays in the Pioneer Amphitheater. Go early for a barbecue dinner.
Lodging options include camper and tent sites, cabins and air-conditioned glamping.
Featured photo: Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Bentonville; photo courtesy Crystal Bridges
Whether you’re attending several weddings this year or are planning your own, here’s a look at some trends you’ll likely see more than once.
More relaxed meals: Plated dinners are still favored by the more traditional, but many are opting for lounge-style or buffet dining that feels less stuffy. You’ll also likely see tasty late-night snacking options to close out the celebration.
A less public approach: Not all couples are wildly extroverted, meaning not all aspects of the wedding will be up for public consumption in 2026. Think private vows, less-than-grand entrances, quieter cake cuttings and low-key send-offs.
Documentary-style photos: The shift towards editorial photography continues. Think magazine-style spreads as opposed to overly posed shots.
String quartets: While many people are still arguing over bands versus DJs, other know the sweet spot is choosing a string quartet during the ceremony and cocktail hour.
All-vibrant-everything: Neutral color palettes are always a safe bet, but you’ll likely see colorful, rich tones in 2026.
Modern Etiquette Dilemmas
You’d think some people were raised in a barn with the stories you hear about wedding etiquette. Whether you’re caught in a sticky situation or just want to arm yourself with the right knowledge, we answer some burning ‘wediquette’ questions.
Who pays for the wedding now?
Whoever can, or whoever wants to. The old model that dictates the bride’s family covers everything has fallen by the wayside due to the rising costs of these celebrations, the antiquity of the sentiment and the unrealistic nature of the request. Many couples split costs themselves, sometimes with contributions from one or both families.
Is it rude to not invite kids?
No, and the majority of parents prefer the night out, but it needs to be communicated clearly and kindly. The key is consistency (no kids at all, or only kids in the immediate family) and giving guests enough notice to arrange childcare.
Can you skip plus-ones?
Of course, but with some nuance. Married, engaged or long-term couples should generally be invited together. If budget or space is tight, limiting plus-ones after that is OK, but you can’t be upset if you receive a few ‘no’ RSVPs, as many people don’t want to go to a wedding solo.
Is it okay to have a cash registry?
In this economy? Absolutely. Honeymoon funds, home funds and experience registries are widely accepted these days. Just remember to let your guests know exactly what they’re contributing to instead of creating a catch-all money request on your registry.
Can you ask guests to follow a dress code?
Of course! However, make sure the dress code matches the vibe of your wedding. (Don’t ask for “black tie” attire without a “black tie” experience, and limit hyper-specific themed dress unless it’s a small batch of guests.)
Is it OK to have a destination wedding?
Yes, but understand that it does shift some of the burden to guests. Don’t take it personally if people can’t come – plane tickets and hotel stays are pricey.
A Seasonal Flower Guide
No matter which season your wedding is in, some blooms will be readily available, while others will require a special order. If you’re not sure where to start, here are a few flowers you can expect to be “on the menu” for each season:
Spring:
Spring weddings have it made – most popular varieties are available around this time. A few include:
Tulips
Peonies
Ranunculus
Daffodils
Hyacinths
Lilac
Summer:
Summer blooms are typically heat-tolerant and vibrant. They are:
Sunflowers
Roses
Zinnias
Lisianthus
Delphinium
Fall:
Fall florals are typically tonally rich, lending to the cozy vibes, including:
Dahlias
Chrysanthemums
Carnations
Hydrangeas
Roses
Seasonal foliage
Winter:
While availability is limited in the colder months, there’s still enough variety to create some dramatic bouquets with:
Roses
Tulips
Amaryllis
Orchids
Evergreens
Registry 2.0
Building your vendor team is one of the biggest and most personal parts of wedding planning. While every celebration looks different, a few core pros tend to anchor the day, while the rest are important, but not always necessary – especially if you’re on a budget.
While it’s subjective, most would agree that at the top of your must-have list are the venue, the caterer and the photographer; you’ve got to have somewhere to get married, someone to feed guests and someone to capture the day, after all.
Beyond the obvious, priorities start to shift depending on your vision and bottom line. Florists, for example, can range from minimal offerings to full-scale installations. Music is another flexible category – some couples opt for a live band, others prefer a DJ and some craft their own playlist and tap an extroverted pal to act as emcee of the evening.
Lastly, the nice-to-haves include videographers, photo booths, late night snack options and opulent desserts. The key is to think about what will actually shape your experience – so choosing intentionally is important.
Honeymoon Planning Basics
Honeymoon planning may feel like something you can put off, but it actually works best when it’s treated as an extension of the wedding timeline. Ideally, couples should start discussing destinations and budget about 6-8 months before the wedding, and for popular locations or international travel, booking flights and accommodations 4-6 months in advance can help secure better rates and availability. If you’re considering a peak-season destination, earlier is better.
For budgeting, a helpful rule of thumb is to allocate around 10–15% of your total wedding budget to the honeymoon, though this varies widely depending on priorities and locations. Couples in Oklahoma often benefit from factoring in flight costs, since most major international trips require a connection.
Timing your honeymoon depends on work schedules, energy levels and logistics. Leaving immediately after the wedding can feel like the traditional route, but it’s not always practical, especially for introverted couples or those who want to save up more funds before heading out. Many couples opt for a “mini-moon” right after the wedding, followed by a longer trip weeks or months later. This approach can also open up more affordable travel windows.
Finally, don’t forget the practical details: check passport validity, consider travel insurance and build in some downtime. A well-planned honeymoon should feel like a true reset, giving you space to celebrate, relax and start married life.
Wood-fired pizzas, seasonal ingredients and a family-first philosophy define the welcoming atmosphere at The Hall’s Pizza Kitchen.
Photos courtesy The Hall’s Pizza Kitchen
When the Hall family decided to buy a food truck in 2013, it was their first jump into the restaurant business. Their inspiration? A family tradition of Saturday-night pizza dinners made by Lorne and Lori Hall for their daughters Molly and Elise – culinary-trained Lori made the pizza dough and Lorne assembled the toppings and baked the pie.
Starters include burrata, ricotta, jalapeno pimento cheese, garlic knots and dips galore.
After four years successfully serving wood-fired pizza to loyal customers, it was only natural to open The Hall’s Pizza Kitchen in Oklahoma City. Nine years later at the restaurant’s Midtown location, the ‘Saturday Night Pizza,’ with pepperoni, sausage, fresh basil, whole-milk mozzarella, Parmigiano Reggiano and “Hall’s sauce,” remains the most popular item on the menu.
The four owners aim to reenact their food-and-family Saturday nights for customers every day of the week.
“Our mission is to create memorable experiences for every guest, and we take that seriously,” says co-owner Molly Grenier. “We believe that we’re welcoming you into our space, and our team is very friendly and engaging. The food can be delicious, but if you don’t feel welcomed and taken care of, it doesn’t really matter. We can’t complete the mission without our team.”
The menu features 14-inch pizzas that can also be ordered as a half-and-half pie or by the slice. Customer favorites are combined with seasonal menu changes in March, July and October. Year-round New Pizza Mondays are a tryout for potential menu additions, such as surprising ‘Samwise’ pizza.
The Hall family’s passion for hospitality shines through in every detail, from handcrafted starters to unique cocktails.
“It’s going to sound crazy, but it’s delicious,” Grenier says. “It’s got cream cheese, roasted potatoes, caramelized onion, bacon and balsamic reduction – maybe not something you’ve had before. Our goal is that everything you eat is craveable, meaning it’s so good you want it again.”
Sides, salads and beverages are equally customer-focused and starter Quinn’s Burrata (burrata drizzled with truffle honey, plated with prosciutto, Calabrese olive oil and wood-fired flatbread) is a perennial favorite.
Desserts are ample at Hall’s, from cheesecake to cookies to strawberry shortcake.
“Quinn’s burrata is one of our first items we created for the restaurant,” says Grenier. “Those aren’t going anywhere. But we want to always make sure that we’re staying fresh for the current audience.”
She says management responded to diner requests for tasty non-alcoholic drinks that resulted in house-made orange lemonade and cherry limeade. For others, craft cocktails were added to beer and wine selections.
“All designed around that foundational pizza,” she says. With their bakery’s display case at the entrance, customers save room for cookies and other freshly baked goods made onsite daily.
“We’re always creating new products, new events, new ways to engage with us and staying focused on what we do and what we think people like,” says Grenier. Inside the 200-seat venue, guests can see the large wood-fire pizza oven tended by staff from early morning to close. The restaurant hosts gatherings for up to 120 people and curbside service has been a staple since 2020.
The second floor is the place to be for private parties, trivia nights and watching Oklahoma City Thunder games. Rooftop outdoor seating is enhanced with seasonal misters, heat lamps and an amazing view of the metro.
When describing the restaurant’s layout of three ground-level dining rooms, Grenier mentions that the upstairs area is called the Family Room. “Every place should have a family room, right?” she asks.
Featured photo: Wood-fired pizzas, seasonal ingredients and a family-first philosophy define the welcoming atmosphere at The Hall’s Pizza Kitchen. Photos courtesy The Hall’s Pizza Kitchen
If you’re looking for indulgent, authentic and downright delicious Mexican fare in Tulsa, make a pitstop at 918 Maples.
Kick off your dining experience with classic starters like queso and guacamole, or venture into new territory with esquites (Mexican street corn), empanadas or the Signature Mexi Sampler, offering empanadas, flautas and a quesadilla.
Tacos – served with corn tortillas, refried or black beans, rice and signature salsa – are the stars of the show. Street tacos come with your choice of chicken, steak, pastor chorizo or campechanos. (As a frequent diner, this writer highly recommends the famous birria tacos.)
Other entree options include the taco bowl with rice, beans, lettuce, shredded cheese and your choice of protein; tortas, served on freshly baked telera bread with chicken, steak or birria; the chilaquiles with salsa roja, eggs and chicken or steak; and the queso chicken with creamy queso, rice and corn tortillas. If you’re dining with a pal, try the La Parrillada Feast, including grilled carne asada, tilapia, chicken, shrimp and chorizo with charred peppers and onions, rice, beans and queso.
Finish up with sopapillas or churros, and don’t forget the restaurant also has a full bar. 918 Maples has several locations – Studio Row, Midtown, West Tulsa and at the Corporate Woods Business Center near the Broken Arrow Expressway and Highway 169.
Photo courtesy Vito’s Ristorante
Vito’s Ristorante
A family-led restaurant at 7628 N. May Ave. in OKC, Vito’s Ristorante is an Italian food lover’s dream. Whether you’re craving a light and fresh lunch or a hearty, carb-heavy dinner, Vito’s is the place to go.
For your antipasto, try the fresh tomato and mozzarella, the seafood ravioli starter or the grilled portabello mushroom. Seafood fanatics will enjoy the shrimp diablo app, which includes six large shrimp in a spicy marinara sauce.
Salads range from the classic house to the Caesar and the salmon, which includes spinach, sun dried tomatoes, artichoke and the salmon catch of the day.
House specialties are sure to impress. Highlights range from the eggplant Parmesan to the chicken spedini – strips of boneless chicken with seasoned bread crumbs, grilled and topped with amogio. Other can’t-miss entrees include the chicken marsala, beef tenderloin tips, pesto linguine, ravioli and shrimp scampi.
For dessert, indulge with tiramisu, lemon Italian cream cake or chocolate mousse cake. The restaurant also offers made-to-order hot meals for 4-6 people, ready within an hour of ordering.
With three locations across the Tulsa metro, Chicken and the Wolf is a spice-lover’s dreams. “Unapologetically serving up Tulsa’s hottest chicken,” according to their website, Chicken and the Wolf offers tenders, salads, sandwiches, chicken fries and sides – all with varying degrees of spice. Beginners should start with no spice or x-mild, then build their way up to mild, medium, hot and x-hot. Diners beware: The spice is no joke!
Other goodies at Chicken and the Wolf include spicy fries, potato salad, coleslaw, lemon bars, cold beers, soft drinks and the iconic boozy slushy.
Photo courtesy the Gilded Acorn
Gilded Acorn
Offering exclusivity and wonderful service to guests, the Gilded Acorn curates a sense of upscale elegance in OKC’s historic First National Center. Perfect for early risers, the restaurant opens at 6:30 a.m. daily, with breakfast items including avocado toast, overnight oats, the classic scramble wrap and veggie sunrise wrap, as well as the croissant sandwich with sausage, bacon, scrambled eggs and American cheese.
Photo courtesy J Farley’s
Lunch, served 10:30-2:30, includes classics like the chicken Caesar wrap, Ruben sandwich, turkey club and the Gilded Salad with spring mix, cucumber, tomatoes, onions and lemon herb dressing. Espresso drinks are ample, alongside cold brew and specialty drinks like chai, hot chocolate and matcha. Finish out your meal with gelato or an affogato.
J Farley’s
A warm and entertaining Irish pub in Claremore, J Farley’s is your go-to for lively fun, bar activities like bingo and trivia, and tasty meal deals all week long. Menu items you’ll want to try include the cheeseburger basket, fish and chips, cheese curds, grilled chicken salad, pickle fries and the Irish Cuban sandwich. Another perk at J Farley’s is a Happy Hour from 4-7 p.m. daily, as well as all day Thursdays.
Collab Coffee Co.
Photo courtesy Collab Coffee Co.
Sleek, stylish and welcoming, Collab Coffee Co. at 4532 E. 51st St. in Tulsa is a hidden gem perfect for a caffeine pick-me-up. Coffee options are tempting – try a classic drip, pour over, espresso, latte, cappuccino or nitro cold brew. For those not keen on coffee, other beverages include matcha lattes, chai tea, hot chocolate and lemonade. Seasonal drinks include the almond orange latte and the rose matcha. If you’re also looking for a small bite to eat, try the quiche, chicken salad croissant or a variety of baked items. Stick around for craft cocktails, wine and beer, too. Collab also offers their space for parties and get-togethers, and has a rentable mobile coffee cart.
