To put Curly Lewis’ remarkable career in perspective, consider that he first began his association with popular music icon Bob Wills back in 1936 – four years before the hit song “San Antonio Rose” took the Wills band “from hamburgers to steaks,” as Bob famously said, and only a couple of years after the bandleader had landed in Tulsa, following stops in his native Texas and Oklahoma City.
After establishing a Tulsa presence, fiddler-vocalist Wills and his Texas Playboys, including his brother Johnnie Lee, would hone and perfect the then-new Southwestern musical stew known as Western swing.
Granted, Lewis was only 11 years old in ’36. But he’d been playing the fiddle since he was 9, and he was good enough at it that, unbeknownst to him, one of his brothers entered him in a Wills-sponsored competition.
“My brother Pres was 17 at the time, and he was down by the old Avery Coliseum in downtown Tulsa one day. They were signing people up for a fiddling contest, so he went in there and signed me up for it,” recalls Lewis with a chuckle.
“I didn’t know anything about it, and it made me kind of mad when I found out.”
The competition itself was held at the Avery, which, as Lewis points out, “took up a whole block – that’s where they had all the big shows back in that time,” and this event certainly qualified.
“It was a three-night deal, and there were 67 old-time fiddle players from seven different states,” he says. “They didn’t have any categories for age. It was just for everybody. They started with all 67 fiddle players and cut it down to 25 the first night. I was number nine. The next night, they cut it down to 10, and I came in number six. My brother kept telling me, ‘You keep coming down three (places) at a time, and you’ll make it.’”
Pres Lewis turned out to be correct.
“On the third night, there was 10 of us, and they had two contests that night. Out of the 10, the first three got into the grand finale. I came in number three on that. And then, in the grand finale, I was lucky enough to come out on top. I got $10 for third place out of the 10, and $100 for winning the grand prize. That’d be equal to a couple of thousand dollars now, just about. Dad bought me a brand-new blue serge suit. I never will forget that. Paid $17 for it. I was really dressed to the nines.”
And so began a career as a musician that would take Lewis all over the country with both Bob and Johnnie Lee Wills as well as the top Western-swing bandleaders Hank Thompson and Leon McAuliffe. Along the way, he would record for a number of different labels, including RCA, and become one of the best-known swing fiddlers of all time.
Although he would sometimes sit in with Bob Wills’ band after winning the competition, Lewis really got started with Johnnie Lee, the second-oldest of the four musical Wills brothers. After establishing Tulsa’s Cain’s Ballroom as the Carnegie Hall – or Ryman Auditorium – of Western swing, and flame-throwing radio station KVOO as the means of getting his live shows out over much of America, Bob Wills left Tulsa to join the Army, leaving the daily broadcasts from the Cain’s and the local dances to his younger brother Johnnie Lee. That was in 1942. Two years later, with World War II raging overseas, 20-year-old Lewis – who was not eligible for service – first took the stage as a member of Johnnie Lee Wills and His Boys.
Along the way, he would record for a number of different labels, including RCA, and become one of the best-known swing fiddlers of all time.”
“I’d been working with a woman named Billie Walker,” he recalls. “She had an early-morning, 5:30 a.m., radio show over at (Tulsa station) KTUL. She was a singer and wore a big bonnet – real old-timey. Johnnie Lee had been listening to our program in the morning, and, of course, he knew me anyway. So one Saturday night he had me come up and sing a few songs, and he wanted me to come back on Tuesday. So I went back on Tuesday, and I went to work for him. I was in Oklahoma City with ‘em that night.”
In addition to singing, Lewis initially played guitar with the Wills band, switching back to the fiddle in 1946. He’d remain with Johnnie Lee’s outfit for just about a decade, leaving to do six months with Bob Wills – who had relocated to California – and then coming back to Tulsa, where he rejoined Johnnie Lee’s band for several months. Next came a run with Hank Thompson, a nationally known act working out of Oklahoma City.
In the late ‘50s, Lewis spent time with the Cimarron Boys, led by McAuliffe, a Texas Playboys alumnus who had gotten his own group and his own Tulsa ballroom, the Cimarron, which was the Cain’s major rival. Long after those days, when both men had dissolved their bands but were still picking up occasional gigs, Lewis would continue to play shows with them.
“I was with Johnnie Lee up until he died,” says Lewis, “and Leon until he died.”
He also continued to perform with Hank Thompson’s Brazos Valley Boys and the Texas Playboys bands formed after Bob Wills’ death until a few years ago, when various injuries and illnesses stilled both his singing voice and his fiddle.
Today an octogenarian, Lewis lives in an immaculate apartment in Tulsa. The few items displayed on its wall include a photo of Hank Thompson with Lewis and the rest of the Brazos Valley Boys from 1967, plaques commemorating his 1994 induction into the Texas Western Swing Hall of Fame and the 2003 Texas music festival that bore his name, and a framed platinum CD of the Tractors’ debut disc from 1994, which featured Lewis on one of its tracks. A few miles away, another acknowledgement lies imbedded in the sidewalk outside the Cain’s Ballroom; it’s his star on the Cain’s Walk of Fame. He’s the only sideman to be so honored.
In the late ‘50s, weary of the road or simply wanting to be home more with his family, Lewis took a couple of stabs at non-musical jobs. He ran a dry-cleaning pickup station in Tulsa for a few months, and later began driving his own dump truck, working with his former Johnnie Lee Wills bandmate, Clarence Cagle.
“I liked that,” he says of the latter job. “I did it for about two months, and I was doing good. Then I was going to work one morning, and it was foggy. I was pulling across the intersection of Pine and Yale when my truck died on me. I was out there with the hood up, looking to see what was the matter, when I heard tires squeal. I ducked down, and an old boy hit right in the back end of that truck. Knocked it about 30 feet, and just completely totaled it.”
He pauses a moment, remembering.
“Then,” he says, “I went to work for Leon McAuliffe.”
Thanks to Brett Bingham for his interviewing assistance.
The Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame has scheduled a Curly Lewis Tribute concert for July 21, featuring several noted Western-swing performers joining emcee John Wooley for a musical retrospective of Lewis’ career. For more information, call the Hall at 918.28.-8609 or visit www.okjazz.org.
In the wake of a struggling national economy, an Oklahoma organization is making great strides in boosting small business growth. Rural Enterprises of Oklahoma, Inc. is quickly becoming known as small business’ best friend.
REI is a private non-profit organization with headquarters in Durant and offices around the entire state. A staff of 40 provides financial and technical assistance to businesses and communities in order to stimulate economic growth and job creation.
REI was begun by former Congressman Wes Watkins in the early 1980s as a tool to help create jobs in rural Oklahoma and to combat the state’s then high unemployment level. Now the organization is in its 28th year and covers businesses all over the state.
In a state where 75 percent of the businesses have 10 employees or fewer, an organization such as REI plays a pivotal role in girding the underbelly of the state economy.
“We are creators of wealth,” says Tom Smith, chairman and CEO of REI.
“Our focus is rural Oklahoma jobs, and I think organizations like ours, which are poised to assist both communities and individuals within the communities, are very much needed and are going to be needed strongly in the future.”
REI is funded through several sources: federal funding through grants and contracts, state funding through the Department of Commerce and through the Department of Agriculture along with revenue generated through REI’s loan programs. Among REI’s specific programs are those aimed at assisting women entrepreneurs, those benefitting minority-owned businesses and a variety of lending programs.
“Our focus is rural Oklahoma jobs, and I think organizations like ours are going to be needed strongly in the future.”
Kathy Robinson, owner of Schoolware, Inc., has been involved in three of REI’s programs and cannot say enough about the organization. Robinson has been in business since 1999 and attributes her continued growth and success directly to REI.
“REI is one of the best business decisions that I ever made,” says Robinson. “They have access to so many resources in our state. As a business owner, I have no idea that I even need that resource, and that it is available. I am not familiar with so many of the things that many entrepreneurs need to know and so few of us do. REI has that expertise, and when they don’t offer something, they act as a liaison to bring those resources to us.”
According to Robinson, REI gives her a more professional polish and façade. They provided her with office space and resources such as training facilities and conference rooms. They also provided her with information such as networking opportunities.
“They help business owners assess whether or not they need to borrow,” she says. “We operated on borrowed money initially and now have paid back $400,000. So much of that has been because of the guidance that we got from REI.
“REI is like the small business’s best friend,” says Robinson. “I can’t tell you how many times I would have failed and fallen off the radar if it wasn’t for them.”
For more information on REI, visit www.ruralenterprises.com.
Secret underground passageways, kidnappers and oil-tycoon millionaires. It’s got all the makings of a Gothic thriller movie. But, instead, it’s right in our backyard.
Buried beneath downtown Tulsa, a system of underground tunnels was built to connect Tulsa’s early skyscrapers. According to history, the tunnel system was first designed for freight, but soon became a millionaire’s highway, keeping Tulsa’s wealthy and prominent citizens safe from harm.
Construction began on the Tulsa tunnels in 1929. The first was an 80-foot-long tunnel that connected the Philtower with the Philcade building. The tunnel was originally designed as a way to transport materials between the two buildings. However, due to a rash of kidnappings of wealthy businessmen in Chicago, oil tycoon and millionaire Waite Phillips used it as a way to move safely between the two buildings. This tunnel is no longer open to the public.
The rest of the tunnels were built later in Tulsa history. All in all, the tunnels connect eight buildings, three parking garages, a hotel and numerous restaurants and small businesses. There are other special finds in the tunnels, too. The office for the Tulsa Foundation for Architecture is located at the bottom of the Kennedy Building. They have several historic artifacts and displays in their window for the public to view. Some of the tunnels include historic photos of downtown Tulsa as well.
Today, the tunnels are used by the downtown crowd to get to and from buildings during inclement weather or just for a fun change of pace. It is possible through a combination of tunnels, sky bridges and building corridors to go from 5th and Boston to 1st and Main Street without ever venturing outside.
The tunnels that are still open to the public are well lit and easily accessible, but they can be confusing for first timers.
Andrea Myers, a public relations professional for the Bank of Oklahoma, is a huge fan of the tunnels.
“To me, it is a magical place in Tulsa history,” Myers says. “I use the tunnels regularly to take me from my office at BOK to other areas in the central business district.”
Myers loves to take people on informal tours of the Tulsa tunnels. However, Bandana Tours offers official tours of the subterranean passageways that take one to three hours with lunch included. In addition to seeing the tunnels and the beautifully ornate Art Deco buildings, tour guides offer glimpses into the lives of the Native Americans, cowboys and oil barons that shaped early Tulsa.
Allison Froeschle, owner of Bandana Tours says out-of-town people are surprised to see how many beautiful buildings there are in downtown Tulsa.
“Even locals, some whom worked downtown in the ‘40s, ‘50s and ‘60s, are surprised to take a look around again and see things they didn’t see when they were young,” Froeschle says.
“My favorite part of the tunnels are the large photographs dated from 1897 to 1937,” Froeschle says. “They help to tell the story of Tulsa in such a visual way.
“I especially love taking children into the buildings and having them express such joy at seeing the beauty there – the ‘ooohs’ and ‘aaahs’ make me smile.”
Underground OKC
Tulsa’s isn’t the only historic underground in the state. The Underground in Oklahoma City is also strongly rooted in local history and helps savvy residents move around the downtown area.
The Underground in downtown Oklahoma City is a three-quarter-mile tunnel system that connects 16 city blocks and more than 30 buildings. Construction of the first tunnel took place in the early 1930s, with mostly wild rumors and urban legends fillings its history until expansion of the underground in the 1970s. Those colorful local myths include everything from rumors of opium dens housed within to inebriated bar patrons finding themselves locked below ground. The reality was far less adventuresome, and tunnel speculation grew quiet for decades after initial construction.
However, in the 1970s and 1980s, banker Jack Conn led the charge to further develop the tunnels, which became known as The Conncourse in his honor. The Conncourse became a bustling place, complete with services, shops, restaurants and other convenient amenities to meet the needs of local bankers, lawyers and oil industry execs.
Following the collapse of the last oil boom, Oklahoma City’s underground fell into disrepair and out of fashion, being closed to the public at times.
However, in 2006 architect Rand Elliott led a $2 million renovation effort that transformed “The Conncourse” into the “Underground,” complete with an exciting lighting plan, new wall colors, a graphics/signage system and a gallery-style display of historic downtown photographs. The Invited Artists Gallery in the Underground is now open and features the shows created by Oklahoma artists. The Invited Artists Gallery sits underneath the intersection of Robinson and Robert S. Kerr with entrances from all adjacent buildings.
Today, once again an important part of downtown Oklahoma City, the Underground demonstrates that vibrant city life in Oklahoma extends beneath the surface.
It’s a diamond in the rough, a hidden gem and a safeguard in our own backyard. The Institute for Information Security (iSec) is the University of Tulsa’s premier cyber security program, and not too many know about it.
Information security is not something new to TU. The university has been one of the leading schools in the country for more than a decade, but a few years ago TU officials brought on David Greer, iSec’s executive director, to help develop the program into something more, which has since led to the launch of the institute.
“We’re focusing on a multidisciplinary approach to the research,” he explains. “We’re not just working with our computer science faculty and researchers, but with our mechanical engineering, business school and law school professors. We are evolving to be able to handle any type of research problem with a cyber screening focus that comes into TU from beginning to end.”
iSec has been working with and receiving widespread recognition from government agencies for their efforts, which has propelled Tulsa into the inner circle for information security research and development. Not only does iSec look at all sides of a problem, but it also develops novel solutions with practical applications, according to Greer.
“We are really agile and flexible in any research need that comes into our institute,” he says. “We can test a problem theatrically through computer science, we can design a solution through our electrical engineering department, we can build it through our mechanical engineering department, we can look at the commercialization aspects of it through the business school and we can look at the legal implications of it in the law school.”
Computer science graduate Zach Harbort says he thinks iSec is a good program, and he’s having a blast with the work he does at TU.
“It is a hidden gem, and that is for a good reason,” he says. “We work with a lot of sensitive materials, and it isn’t always public knowledge.”
The program is not only helping government agencies and the university, but students like Harbort as well. He says the experience he is getting at TU is substantially beneficial.
“I get to work with a lot of government-funded technology that most people don’t have a chance to ever use in their lifetime,” he explains. “I’m exposed to new technology and developing software for different government platforms and I’ll have an advantage over most students going into the industry because of that.”
It is said that true classics never go out of style, and the art of quilting seems to be no exception.
This age-old craft is becoming popular again among women (and men) of all ages and experience levels. And today’s quilting circles are far from the stereotypical image of grandmas stitching and gossiping. If you need proof, just visit your local quilting group – you almost definitely have at least one nearby.
“I think that quilting has stepped out of the traditional box as a utilitarian bed covering, and is now being recognized as a textile art form with museum-quality status,” says Vesta VanTrease, president of the Green Country Quilters Guild Inc.
The group boasts more than 200 members in the Tulsa area, and even has separate monthly meetings for day-quilters and night-owls.
Mary Ann Tate, past president of the Mid-Del Stitchin’ Sisters Quilt Guild, a Midwest City circle with approximately 100 members, attributes some of the renewed popularity to the changing times.
“New technology has made quilting easier,” she says. “With the internet, there is more opportunity for stay-at-home moms to have jobs at home connected to quilting.”
“For some people, quilting is a family tradition handed down from grandmothers,” says VanTrease. “For many people, it is something that they invest their time in as their family grows up or as they retire from the world of work. It is something that they always wanted to try, so they find the local quilt shops and take classes. For many, it is a transition from making clothing to a new creative form of working with their hands. There are myriad reasons for people being interested in this new age of quilting.”
Whatever the reason for the recent quilting renaissance, one thing is certain: It’s not just your grandmother’s craft anymore.
The quilting circles of today go far beyond socializing while sewing. Many, including both the Green Country Quilters and the Mid-Del Stitchin’ Sisters, have numerous charity projects on hand at any given time. It’s not uncommon for individual guilds to donate thousands of quilts to programs ranging from Habitat for Humanity and family organizations at Tinker Air Force Base, to hospitals and special education classes. In addition, most circles have their own quilt shows, host guest speakers, offer educational programs and more; the hands of today’s quilters are far from idle.
While all kinds of people – young, old, men, women, novices, experts – seem to be joining quilting circles in droves, they each have one thing in common: a deeply personal love of the craft.
“Quilting is never boring,” Tate says. “It always is soothing to the soul. It soothes me while making the quilt and it soothes receivers when they wrap up in it. The quilt provides warmth and love, and can bring about a tender smile or a downright belly laugh. It survives through time and generations. You don’t know where it will end up.”
In Oklahoma, it’s certainly not hard to find a great set of links. In Tulsa, readers enjoy playing the course at Southern Hills Country Club. The Golf Club of Oklahoma and Cherokee Hills Golf Club are also favorites in Green Country. In Oklahoma City, our readers enjoy the challenging holes at the Oklahoma City Golf & Country Club. Gallardia Country Club and Twin Hills Golf & Country Club are also great places for 18 holes.
Art Gallery
Whether you’re searching for the perfect piece or browsing local artists’ latest works, it’s M.A. Doran Gallery that our Tulsa readers most often go to. Joseph Gierek Fine Art is another favorite, followed by Living Arts of Tulsa and Aberson Exhibits.
In Oklahoma City, the city’s underground tunnels serves as home to Invited Artists of Oklahoma, or IAO Gallery, which received the top spot for this year’s best art gallery. IAO Gallery is followed by AKA Gallery and Istvan Gallery.
Bed and Breakfast/Inn
If you’re looking for a place to rest and relax, look no further than one of the state’s great bed and breakfasts or inns. In Tulsa, our raters enjoy kicking back at Cedar Rock Inn and McBirney Mansion. Also favorites are The Canebrake and Kennedy Mansion, followed by The Inn at Woodward Park.
In Oklahoma City, it’s The Grandison Inn receiving the top spot, followed by The Montford Inn and the Arcadia Inn Bed & Breakfast.
Casino
It’s one of the oldest forms of entertainment, and quickly becoming the favorite pastime of Oklahomans. In Tulsa, readers like to place their bets at the rockin’ Hard Rock Tulsa Hotel & Casino. Osage Million Dollar Elm Casino also earns a nod for their several gaming locations as well as top-notch live entertainment. River Spirit Casino and Downstream Casino Resort, located in Quapaw, round out the tops.
Our Oklahoma City readers head south to Norman to do their gambling at Riverwind Casino. Further south, at WinStar World Casino, the opulent building and lavish décor wow readers. FireLake Grand Casino is another top casino destination for Oklahoma Citians.
Concert Venue
There are many great places to catch a live show in the state. In Tulsa, BOK Center comes in as the best concert venue for hosting some of the biggest names in music – including Elton John and Taylor Swift – followed by the historic Cain’s Ballroom. Brady Theater and SpiritBank Events Center round out the favorites.
The aptly named Oklahoma City Arena, when it’s not hosting Thunder games, is a top concert destination, followed by the Oklahoma City Civic Center Music Hall and indie rock hall The Conservatory.
Dive Bar
They’re places where everybody knows your name. Top dive bar in Tulsa is Arnie’s Bar, located in the Blue Dome District. Following close behind is Drake’s Tavern and The Colony.
In Oklahoma City, Edna’s keeps loyal customers coming back for their signature lunchbox drinks. Hi-Lo Club and Cock O’ The Walk round out the top three dive bars.
Happening Bar
It’s hip, it’s hot and it’s certainly the place to be. Receiving most votes for happening bar in Tulsa is Center Bar, located in Hard Rock Tulsa Hotel & Casino, and Vintage 1740 wine bar. James E. McNellie’s Public House and In The Raw are also favorites, as are White Owl Pub and The Ivey Rooftop Wine Bar & Lounge.
In Oklahoma City, Republic Gastropub is the top happening bar, followed by James E. McNellie’s Public House and 51st Street Speakeasy.
Hotel
When your guests come to town, you want to put them up in the very best hotel. Oklahoma Magazine readers recommend The Mayo Hotel as best hotel in Tulsa, followed by Hard Rock Tulsa Hotel & Casino. Hotel Ambassador and Hotel Savoy round out the top three.
In Oklahoma City, it’s the historic Skirvin Hilton receiving the nod as top hotel in the city. Waterford Marriott and Colcord Hotel are not far behind in second and third places, respectively.
Local Band/Musician
Oklahoma is known for supporting its local musicians. In Tulsa, Chloe Johns earns the top spot as best local musician in the city, followed closely by perennial favorites The Fabulous Mid Life Crisis Band. Eric Himan and Sweatin’ Bullets round out this year’s list.
Hosty Duo has been entertaining crowds in Oklahoma City for many years, and this year they claim the top spot for best local band. The group 2 a.m. follows, and violinist extraordinaire Kyle Dillingham rounds out the top three.
Local Professional Sports Team
There are lots of ways to enjoy sports in the Sooner State. Tulsans enjoy rooting for the home team at Tulsa Drillers games, and they cheer on the women of the Tulsa Shock at games played at the BOK Center. The Tulsa Oilers are also a favorite, as are Tulsa Talons and the NBA D-League Tulsa 66ers team.
It’s no surprise that Oklahoma City’s first major professional sports team, the Oklahoma City Thunder, has once again won this category. The basketballers are followed by the Oklahoma City RedHawks and the Oklahoma City Barons.
Local TV Station
Tuning in for news, reality and talk shows, our readers have definite opinions about their favorite broadcast TV station. Taking the top spot this year is CBS affiliate KOTV Channel 6, boasting popular shows like How I Met Your Mother and The Amazing Race. Following closely behind are NBC affiliate KJRH Channel 2 and KOKI Fox 23.
In Oklahoma City, NBC affiliate KFOR Channel 4 is the vote-gettingest local TV station, broadcasting such favorites as The Today Show, 30 Rock and The Biggest Loser. ABC affiliate KOCO Channel 5 is a perennial favorite, and rounding out the top three is CBS affiliate KWTV Channel 9.
Museum
Where do you go to appreciate the wonderful culture our state possesses? In Tulsa, it’s Philbrook Museum of Art and Gilcrease Museum that are favorites of our readers. With its large collections of Italian Renaissance, Asian and modern and contemporary art, among others, Philbrook is a great place to take in beautiful pieces. Gilcrease boasts the world’s largest, most comprehensive collection of art and artifacts of the American West. Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve, located near Bartlesville, is a great museum to view unique Western art and artifacts. Claremore’s Will Rogers Memorial Museum and the Tulsa Air and Space Museum & Planetarium are also favorites.
In Oklahoma City, the Oklahoma City Museum of Art is a favorite for its permanent collections as well as its world-premiere exhibitions. Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History is a favorite of our readers to visit to learn about the natural wonders of the state, while the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum is a great tool for learning about the American West. Science Museum Oklahoma provides fun exhibits to help teach science.
Performing Arts
There are many outlets for artistic expression. In Tulsa, our readers enjoy attending a performance by the Tulsa Ballet, whether it’s a classic ballet or a world premiere choreographed by one of the company’s many talented members. The beautiful productions by Tulsa Opera also keep our readers entertained, as do the melodies of Tulsa Symphony Orchestra and Tulsa Oratorio Chorus.
The professional performances by Oklahoma City’s Lyric Theatre are favorites among our readers. Oklahoma City Ballet also receives accolades for its ballet beauty, while Oklahoma City Philharmonic rounds out our readers’ favorites.
Place to Catch a Flick
If you’re in the mood for a blockbuster, rom-com or indie flick, head to one of The Best of the Best movie theaters in the state. Cinemark Tulsa shows the most popular films on huge screens, including an IMAX. AMC Southroads 20 is a favorite for Midtowners, especially for their reliable screenings of award-winning indie films. Circle Cinema may be small, but they generate a lot of buzz for screening films that would otherwise never be screened in Tulsa.
The experience of enjoying dinner and drinks with your movie is what makes Moore Warren Theatre the most popular movie theater in Oklahoma City. Harkins Theaters, located in the popular Bricktown district, shows the latest and greatest films. Cinemark Tinseltown USA rounds out the top three.
Place to See and Be Seen
You need to rub elbows; you’ve got to schmooze. The best places to see and be seen in Tulsa is Utica Square, where you can mix and mingle while enjoying great shopping and dining. Brookside, for its trendy nightlife, is another popular hotspot, followed by BOK Center.
In Oklahoma City, you can definitely see and be seen, especially on the Jumbotron, at an Oklahoma City Thunder Game. The entertainment district, Bricktown, is always a great spot to run into the movers and shakers of the city. The crowd at Republic Gastropub is also one you definitely want to be part of.
Resort in Oklahoma
There are many places in Oklahoma that are great for a short stay or a more long-term destination. The lush hills of Beavers Bend and Hochatown State Park make this resort in far southeast Oklahoma a favorite among readers, while the bright lights of the big casino beckon readers to Hard Rock Tulsa Hotel & Casino for a stay. Western Hills Guest Ranch Resort offers golfing, boating, biking and horseback riding activities, all near the shores of Fort Gibson Lake. Nestled among the beautiful, historic mountains of southwest Oklahoma lies Quartz Mountain Resort Art & Conference Center, a retreat that offers some of the best options in leisurely activities.
Stop on the Radio Dial
Whether you want to catch up on current events or rock out to Top 40 tunes, there’s a radio station for that. In Tulsa, 97.5 KMOD brings listeners classic rock ‘n’ roll songs from old and new artists. News Talk 740 AM KRMG keeps you up to date on local happenings and provides lively debate. The programming provided by 89.5 KWGS NPR is a mix of local and national shows that discuss a wide variety of topics.
102.7 KJYO brings listeners the latest and greatest in pop and hip-hop music. 104.9 KKWD also spins great tracks from contemporary artists. 98.9 KYIS plays hits from the ‘80s, ‘90s and today.
Wedding or Party Venue
For an over-the-top bash or a quiet, intimate affair, there are a few places that will provide the perfect backdrop for your to-do. The Mayo Hotel provides an historic backdrop with modern touches for parties, weddings or other occasions. Harwelden Mansion and Tulsa Convention Center are also popular venues, followed by McBirney Mansion and Dresser Mansion.
Pay no attention to those pesky rumors that this hotel is haunted – located in the heart of downtown OKC, the Skirvin Hilton is the best place to host your bash, according to our Oklahoma City readers. Oklahoma City Public Farmers Market is a unique and whimsical locale for your parties or weddings, followed by the stately Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum.
Weekend Getaway Destination
It’s nice to leave life at home and escape for a weekend retreat, and there are plenty of destinations within the borders of our state. Greenleaf State Park in eastern Oklahoma is a great retreat for those looking for a little rustic relaxation. The cabins built in the 1930s do, however, house satellite television. The Wichita Mountains and Black Mesa are also popular weekend getaways. Brushy Lake State Park in eastern Oklahoma and Fort Cobb State Park in the southwestern part of the state also got nods as great weekend getaways.
Winery
Oklahomans love their religion and barbecue; in a close third, they also love their wine. Many local wineries continue to wow palates with rich, complex wines. In Tulsa, readers like to visit Stone Bluff Cellars for tastings as well as special events. Urban winery Girouard Vines is the home of the famous Tulsa Deco series, in which wines are named after famed Tulsa landmarks. Down the road a piece in Stroud is StableRidge Vineyards Winery, another favorite of Tulsa readers.
The tiny town of Luther is home to one of the most popular wineries in Oklahoma, Tres Sueños Vineyards and Winery, where a wide assortment of wines waits to be tasted. Tidal School Winery in Drumright also gets the nod from Oklahoma City readers, followed by Winery of the Wichitas in southwest Oklahoma.
Your child may be the next Picasso. You can certainly get a better idea of your child’s artistic abilities by sending him or her to Philbrook Museum of Art for lessons. Another popular art school, Tulsa Girls Art School, encourages girls living in underprivileged areas of Tulsa to explore creating art. Dana Gilpin also offers great art classes for budding artists.
In Oklahoma City, City Arts Center is the place to take your child for art lessons. The Oklahoma City Museum of Art and Edmond Fine Arts Institute round out favorites west of I-35.
Camp
It’s summertime, and parents and kids alike are looking for fun activities to occupy all that free time. In Tulsa, parents send their children to Encore Theatre Arts to learn the basics of acting. Camp Loughridge and New Life Ranch are also popular choices, as are Riverfield Country Day School and YMCA’s Camp Takatoka, both located in Tulsa.
Oklahoma City’s YMCA Camp Classen has kids excited for summer outdoor activities. City Arts Center summer camps are popular for those budding artists. Oklahoma City Zoo summer camps round out the top choices for camps in Oklahoma City.
Children’s Clothing Store
When you need to dress the little one to the nines, where do you go? In Tulsa, it’s Kathleen’s Kids that’s keeping kids in designer duds as the largest children’s boutique in the region. Perennial favorite GapKids is also a popular stop for children’s clothing, as is The Lolly Garden located in Utica Square.
In Oklahoma City, it’s Uptown Kids located in the trendy Classen Curve that has kids stylin’ and profilin’. Once again, GapKids receives kudos for its stylish and affordable children’s clothing. Another favorite, The Children’s Place, boasts three locations in the Oklahoma City metro area.
Dance School
Does your tot have all that jazz? Find out at Miss Shelly’s School of Dance, where Tulsa readers say they like to send their kids for dance lessons. Also popular are South Tulsa Dance Company and Theatre Arts.
In Oklahoma City, everything does go at Everything Goes Dance Studio, where the instructors teach everything from ballet to the tango. Victory Dance and The Dance Center of Oklahoma City Ballet are also reader favorites.
Family Entertainment
There are some great places in our state for the entire family to have fun. Incredible Pizza Company is the destination of many Tulsa families. Also popular are the arcade-like Dave & Buster’s and the always-entertaining Oklahoma Aquarium.
In Oklahoma City, it’s Oklahoma City Zoo that keeps families entertained, especially with the recent addition of a baby elephant. Science Museum Oklahoma and Bricktown bowling alley Red Pin round out favorites.
Family-Friendly Dining
There are some restaurants that are definitely more family-friendly than others. The accessible food and great entertainment provided by Incredible Pizza Company make it the top spot for family-friendly dining in Tulsa. Dave & Buster’s and Mexican restaurant El Chico are also favorites.
It’s pizza and burgers for the family in Oklahoma City, as the popular pizza chain Hideaway Pizza claims tops for family-friendly dining. The exotic pies of The Wedge Pizzeria make this casual-upscale restaurant a favorite, and Irma’s Burger Shack rounds out the top destinations for family-friendly dining.
Music School
Some parents like to nurture their children’s creativity; still others have a music prodigy on their hands. When developing musical ability, Brook Fine Arts Academy receives the top spot in Tulsa on our list, followed by Saied Music Company and Barthelmes Conservatory.
In Oklahoma City, Sonder Music, Dance & Art receives kudos for its creative approach to teaching students. Other favorites in Oklahoma City include Super Key Music Studies and Ginger’s Kindermusik.
Park
There’s nothing like spending a day at the park with the kids. In Tulsa, it’s LaFortune Park that parents most enjoy visiting with kids. If you go, be sure to bring bread to feed the ducks. Also favorites are Tulsa River Parks, Woodward Park and Hunter Park, with its dog area called Bark Park.
In Oklahoma City, readers enjoy spending time in Lake Hefner Park along the shores of its namesake. Earlywine Park and Edmond’s Hafer Park are also favorites.
Pediatrician
Whether your kiddo is feeling under the weather or simply needs an annual check-up, having a great pediatrician in your corner is a must. That’s why our Tulsa readers recommend Dr. Patrick J. Daley. Following Dr. Daley are Dr. Donald Hamilton and Broken Arrow’s Dr. Carl Pfanstiel.
In Oklahoma City, it’s a tie for first between Dr. Stephanie Grim and Dr. Amie Prough. Dr. R. Kevin Moore also received accolades in Oklahoma City, as did Dr. Mickey Crittenden.
Place for Kids’ Activities
Whether it’s for a birthday or just a fun day on the town, parents agree that BounceU of Tulsa is a top spot in T-Town for children’s activities. This is followed closely by the Tulsa Zoo and Living Museum. The wonderment of the Tulsa Air and Space Museum & Planetarium is also a top destination.
In Oklahoma City, it’s the call of the wild of the Oklahoma City Zoo that makes it a top spot for kids’ activities. Making science fun and accessible is the mission of Science Museum Oklahoma, which received accolades in Oklahoma City as a great place for kids’ activities. Rounding out favorites is the excitement of Oklahoma City Thunder games.
Toy Store
Whether you’re shopping for your own little tyke or picking up a treat for that special niece or nephew, Tulsa readers recommend visiting Toys “R” Us for its stellar selection of toys. Tulsa-based Kiddlestix also gets a nod for its unique and innovative toys. Utica Square’s Snow Goose rounds out the Tulsa favorites in the toy store category.
In Oklahoma City, it’s Toys “R” Us once again getting the nod for tops in toy stores. Kidoodles Toy Zone in Norman is a favorite with children for their fun, whimsical toy offerings. Learning Tree, specializing in toys, games and books, is also a popular choice in Oklahoma City.
Tutoring Service
Your kiddo may need a little extra help with reading or math. So where do you turn? Our readers across the state say that Kaplan Tutoring is a top spot for helping children learn. Up next is Kumon Math and Reading Center, followed by Sylvan Learning.
Shopping for the right piece of jewelry or an exquisite handbag is easy in the shops of Oklahoma. In Tulsa, Nattie Bleu is the place to go for accessories that accent your look. Readers also like J. Spencer Jewelry & Gifts, which came in second and Accessory City, third.
Oklahoma City’s favorite place to go is Balliet’s followed by On A Whim, second, and Francesca’s Collections, third.
Antique Shop
Antique hunters brave yard sales, flea markets and the summer heat to find treasures, so that’s why places such as Zoller Designs and Antiques are treasures in themselves. Tulsa’s top pick is followed by Antique Warehouse by Dale and Lou’s Antiques & Fine Furnishings in third.
Oklahoma City readers head to the 23rd Street Antique Mall for unique finds as well as at Notting Hill Antiques, second place, and Mockingbird Manor Antiques and the RINK Gallery, tied for third.
Bed and Bath Shop
Fine linens are a luxury we all enjoy. Tulsa’s favorite shop for those high-thread count sheets and plush towels is Bed Bath & Beyond, followed by The Dolphin. Pottery Barn rounds out the top three.
Oklahoma City also likes Bed Bath & Beyond. Second is the fragrant Bath & Body Works followed by Essentials in third.
Bike Shop
Biking is a great way to feel better, see the city and spend time with the family. Lee’s Bicycles is Tulsa’s top pick for equipment and gear. Tom’s Bicycles and Bicycles of Tulsa followed.
Schlegel Bicycles is the winner in Oklahoma City along with Buchanan Bicycles in second and Al’s Bicycles in third.
Bookstore
Atmosphere is part of what makes a bookstore special, and the winners have that, books and more in abundance. Tulsa goes to Barnes & Noble for a great read as well as Steve’s Sundry, Books & Magazines in second and Gardner’s Used Books & Magazines in third.
For Oklahoma City, once again it’s Barnes & Noble at the top along with Full Circle Bookstore and Book Stall rounding it out in third.
Car Dealer
No one wants to feel burdened at a car dealership. Great service and a quality product – plus a hot set of wheels – go far in this business. Lexus of Tulsa is Tulsa’s best, according to readers, followed by BMW of Tulsa and Bill Knight Jaguar of Tulsa.
Bob Howard Auto Group takes the cake in Oklahoma City. Bob Moore Auto Group is second and Jackie Cooper BMW rounds out the top.
Department Store
When you need a dress for a special occasion, shoes to go with it and accessories, chances are a department store can handle it, especially one like Saks Fifth Avenue, voted as Tulsa’s favorite. Runners-up Dillard’s and Miss Jackson’s did well, too, along with Macy’s.
Balliet’s has Oklahoma City’s vote followed by Dillard’s in second and then Macy’s.
Eyeglass Store
Not just any old pair will do. Choosing eyeglass frames whether for reading or sun takes an expert eye. Visions Unique Eyewear has some of the most stylish frames on display, making it Tulsa’s favorite. Black Optical is second, followed by Hicks Brunson Eyewear.
Oklahoma City runs to EyeMart Express for vision needs. LensCrafters and Eyes, Ltd., finish the top picks.
Fine Jewelry Store
Jewelry is an investment, and readers are particular about where to go. Tulsa heads first to Bruce G. Weber Precious Jewels for exquisite pieces. Moody’s Jewelry came in second. Israel Diamond, Star Jewelers and Cunningham Fine Jewelry tie at third.
BC Clark Jewelers tops the list for Oklahoma City along with Naifeh Fine Jewelry in second and Mitchener-Farrand in a respectable third.
Gift Store
Even if you’re shopping last minute for a friend’s birthday present, shops like Margo’s Gifts have a quick and easy answer. Tulsa’s top pick is followed by Miss Jackson’s in second and by Tea & Magnolias and The Perfect Touch in a tie for third.
As its name suggests, On A Whim is Oklahoma City’s ideal stop for gifts. Blue Seven and Sabi Limited round up the top.
Grocery Store/Market
The fresh produce, quality meats and variety of groceries makes these choice establishments Oklahoma’s The Best of the Best. Tulsa still loves Petty’s Fine Foods, first, but also heads to Whole Foods Market, second. In a tie for third are Food Pyramid and Reasor’s Foods.
Crescent Market tops Oklahoma City’s list followed by Crest Foods in second and Native Roots tied with Forward Foods for third.
Health Food/Products Store
Specialized foods and natural products call for a special store. In Tulsa, Whole Foods Market is the first place to stop, but readers also like Akin’s Natural Foods Market, which places second, and GNC.
Oklahoma City readers made Akin’s Natural Foods Market their winner. Dodson’s Health Foods And Vitamins finishes in second. Forward Foods and Health Food Center place third.
Meat or Seafood Market
Whether it’s the catch of the day or fresh-made sausage, these meat and seafood markets are graded excellent. Bodean Seafood Market in Tulsa tops the list along with Siegi’s Sausage Factory & Deli in second and Harvard Meat Market in third.
Avalon Seafood & Produce Market is Oklahoma City’s favorite followed by Crest Foods and Bill Kamp’s Meat Market.
Men’s Boutique for a Splurge
If you’re going to spend some serious cash on some great wardrobe items, Tulsa recommends you do it Abersons, Saxon Judd and Travers Mahan.
Mr. Ooley’s is the place to go in Oklahoma City as well as Gil’s Clothing Company. Teena Hicks Company and Spencer Stone Company tied for third.
Men’s Boutique
Classic cuts and unique pieces to define personal style are the hallmarks of a great wardrobe. For that, Tulsa turns to Travers Mahan for selection and service. Second is R. Lockwood, and tied for third are Pinpoint and Jos. A. Bank Clothiers.
Mr. Ooley’s heads Oklahoma City’s list. Blue Seven is second and Spencer Stone Company finishes the top three.
Men’s Shoe Store
Every man wants to get the most out of his footwear. Tulsa readers find versatility and style at Dillard’s, John Daniel Footwear and Shoe Gypsy.
Mr. Ooley’s is Oklahoma City’s winner in men’s footwear with Shoe Gypsy close in second and Dillard’s in third.
Motorcycle/Scooter Shop
Getting around town has never been so much fun. In Tulsa, Myers-Duren Harley-Davidson caters to life on two wheels and is the city’s favorite spot for equipment. They also like Route 66 Harley-Davidson near the Arkansas River and Honda of Tulsa, second and third.
Oklahoma City’s Atomic Brown Scooter Shop wins out over the rest with Harley-Davidson World in close second followed by Maxey’s Cycle.
Party Rental/Supply Store
Someone should throw a party for Ehrle’s Party & Carnival Supply of Tulsa since it is, once again, Tulsa’s favorite stop for festive supplies. ABCO Rents checks in second along with Party Pro Rents and Events in third.
The same goes for Marianne’s Rentals for Special Events, Oklahoma City’s top pick yet again. Party Galaxy ranks in second along with Bill Veazey’s Party Store.
Pet/Pet Supply Store
Pets are family, too. Thankfully there are great stores that cater to our best four-legged friends. Tulsa goes to PetSmart followed by Southern Agriculture and PETCO.
PetSmart is also the favorite stop for Oklahoma City. Runners-up are PETCO and Paws Around Town.
Place to Buy Men’s Jeans
Tulsans don’t need to travel far and wide to find jeans that fit just right. Drysdales Western Wear is the No. 1 place, but readers also sang the praises of Gap, in second, and Chrome Clothing Company, third.
Readers recommend Gil’s Clothing Company for jeans along with Blue Seven and, in third, Cayman’s Clothing.
Place to Buy Women’s Jeans
Relaxed, boot cut, skinny – when it comes to finding great-fitting jeans, Tulsa readers look to Saks Fifth Avenue for selection. Not far behind are Chrome Clothing Company and, tied for third, Gap and Drysdales Western Wear.
The options are endless in Oklahoma City, too, and readers bolstered Gil’s Clothing Company to the head of the best list followed by Blue Seven and BodyTrends Boutique.
Place to Find a Wedding Dress
You want the day to be perfect, and that begins with the right dress. Readers in Tulsa made Bridal Palace their choice pick for bridal wear. They also like Abelina’s Bridal Boutique, second, and Alfred Angelo, third.
JJ Kelly Bridal Salon wins in Oklahoma City with David’s Bridal close behind and followed by Meg Guess Couture Bridal & Boutique.
Shopping Center/Mall
Beautiful, classic and central to Midtown’s charm, Utica Square is Tulsa’s favorite shopping center for upscale brands for home, clothing, gifts. Woodland Hills Mall also wins big as runner-up. Center 1 and Kings Pointe Village tie at third.
Penn Square Mall is the place to be, Oklahoma City readers told us, but Quail Springs Mall wasn’t far behind. Classen Curve finishes the top three.
Sporting Goods/Outdoor Store
Oklahomans love the outdoors whether they’re at the lake, on a playing field or contemplating the deep woods. For the gear, they head to Academy Sports & Outdoors first. Bass Pro Shops reels in a second place finish followed by a tie between Sun & Ski Sports and Backwoods.
Stationery Store
A simple note to a friend or new acquaintance is a timeless gesture of grace and gratitude. If it’s stationery you’re looking for, Margo’s Gifts has it. Tulsa’s top pick is followed by Pengaro’s and Snow Goose in second and You’re Invited in third.
No Regrets wins Oklahoma City’s vote along with Red Fox Paperie in second and Paper N More in third.
Tuxedo Store
Formal wear doesn’t have to be a monkey suit when the service and choice is prime. Al’s Formal Wear has Tulsa’s vote for best of show followed by Beshara’s Formal Wear as second and Men’s Wearhouse in third.
In Oklahoma City, you’ll want to look up Tuxedo Junction, readers’ first choice. Al’s Formal Wear and Men’s Wearhouse finish out the top three.
Wine/Liquor Store
Celebrating calls for toasts made possible by your friendly wine and liquor merchant. Ranch Acres Wine & Spirits wins in Tulsa’s books. Also high in the ranks are Old Village Wine & Spirits, second, and The Crossing Wine & Spirits, third.
Oklahoma City readers so highly value Byron’s Liquor Warehouse that they made it a winner again. Kudos also go to Beau’s Liquor, second, and The Cellar, third.
Women’s Boutique for a Splurge
Sometime you need to indulge yourself with an extra special article of clothing. When that happens, Abersons is the place to head. Rope gets the vote in second followed by Flirt.
Gordon Stuart wins Oklahoma City shoppers’ loyalty another year with the most votes. Balliet’s and Mr. Ooley’s are a respectable duo at second followed by Ruth Meyers.
Women’s Boutique
The clothes can make the woman, but a boutique with original pieces and beautiful tailoring is a good place to start. Tulsa ranks Donna’s Fashions as best in the category followed by Bella Dames and Mary-Ruby Apparel high on the list.
On A Whim is the choice boutique for discriminating Oklahoma City dwellers, but readers put CK & Co. and Allyson’s Closet in close second and Tres Chic in third.
Women’s Shoe Store
If the enticingly fashionable shoe fits, it must have come from one of the stores named as best of the best. In Tulsa, Saks Fifth Avenue takes first with Abersons in second and J. Cole in third.
Gordon Stuart was voted best in Oklahoma City. Balliet’s comes in second with Shoe Gypsy and Shoetopia tied for third.
Crunching numbers is the specialty of Ernst & Young and the firm of Deloitte & Touche, Tulsa’s choice for accounting services. Voters put Eide Bailly and HoganTaylor mat second followed by two more stellar companies, Connally & Associates and Carl Webb, CPA, at third. The Oklahoma City office of Ernst & Young is favored by readers for it diligence and professionalism. Eide Bailly, also with offices in the city, was a close second followed by HoganTaylor and Early & Means, CPA, tied for third.
Aesthetician
We take our skin care seriously. In Tulsa, that means securing an appointment with a star aesthetician like T-Town’s go-to-guy Gabriel Horn of Dr. Joey Manduano Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surgery. Other favorites are Tara Tibbs of Emerge Medical Day Spa and Lee Beasley at Bella Vita Spa & Salon, followed by Jennifer Siddiki at the Skin Care Institute.
Brittney Waugh at BodyTrends Day Spa was favored above all in the Oklahoma City vote for her magic touch, but Suzanne Kelley of Cottonwood Salon Spa and Christine Epperson of Advanced Aesthetics weren’t far behind.
Airline
Not all airlines are the same, and readers statewide have made American Airlines the service of choice when taking to the skies for travel. As the second-largest commercial airline in the world (behind Air France), American takes passengers across the country and to international destinations. Southwest Airlines’ no nonsense approach to air travel and affordability puts it in second with United Airlines and Continental Airlines making up third place together.
Apartment Complex
The Links on Memorial apartment complex is Tulsa readers’ favorite choice of apartment residence for spacious floor plans, amenities, sports facilities and, of course, the golf course. Estancia at Tulsa and The Greens at Owasso take second and third places, respectively.
Oklahoma City’s The Lincoln at Central Park has much to offer residents, which is probably why the apartment complex was voted the top in its category. Voters, however, also like Regency Tower and Legacy Woods enough to make them second and third.
Assisted Living Center
The residents of Montereau in Warren Woods must have spread the word about their community. The resort-style retirement facility went straight to the top vote count along with Inverness Village at second and a tie for third between Emeritus at Tulsa and St. John Villas.
Emeritus Quail Creek took the most votes among OKC readers for excellence in care and community followed by Manchester House and Epworth Villa for commitment to the comfort of their residents.
Attorney
Bruce Edge of the Edge Law Firm and Robert P. Coffey Jr. of Coffey, Gudgel & McDaniel tied for the Tulsa’s most-recommended legal counsel. Several other attorneys also made the top of our The Best of the Best list, including William R. Grimm of Barrow & Grimm and Elise Dunitz Brennan of Conner & Winters in second. Third place goes to Michael Barkett of the Barkett Law Firm and James R. Hicks of Morrel Saffa Craige.
Just as last year, Oklahoma City voted Randall K. Calvert of Calvert Law Firm to first place out of a highly competitive field. Robert H. Alexander Jr. of the Law Office of Robert H. Alexander Jr. placed second followed by Mark E. Hammons Sr. of Hammons, Gowens, Hurst & Associates.
Bank
There are many places to put your money, but Tulsa named a handful of institutions to the upper ranks of excellence. Bank of Oklahoma’s convenience and strength helped it get the nod for first place closely followed by both Arvest Bank and F&M Bank & Trust. A four-way tie for third place means there are plenty of places to go for financial peace of mind: Bank of America, ONB, RCB Bank and IBC Bank.
Oklahoma City is no different with Bank of Oklahoma taking the lead along with First Fidelity Bank and MidFirst Bank but a few paces back. IBC Bank rounds out the top three.
Caterer
Somewhere in Tulsa, a wedding is being planned, which means there will be a reception, which means a lot of people are going to need to chow after the vows have been exchanged. Readers voted Just Catering by Orr as the best service up for the task along with Ludger’s Catering and Eats2U in second with the Catering Connection and Catering Kitchen placing third.
With more than two decades of experience, Aunt Pittypat’s Catering claims the prize in Oklahoma City along with Seasons Catering and Cooking Girl in second and third place with first-rate gourmet cuisine and service.
Chiropractor
When that annoying neck pain just won’t go away, Dr. Tim Cole at Integrated Physical Health, by readers’ accounts, is someone you should seek out for help. Comprehensive care also helped South Tulsa Performance Health’s Dr. Jason Westemeir to second place in his category along with Dr. Gerald Chicoine of Chicoine Chiropractic Clinic to a third place climb above the rest.
Readers found honesty and comprehensive care in the hands of Dr. Rob Rowe and made him and his practice the best in Oklahoma City. In a three-way tie for second, distinction was given to Dr. Nathan Schacter, Dr. Damon Coffman and Dr. Harmony White of Harmony Chiropractic. Downtown Chiropractic earned the third place spot.
Cleaning Services
Tulsa’s Clean Freaks swept up recognition for The Best of the Best by bringing convenience and quality into the home since 2001. Customized service for home and business is the specialty of the cleaning services making the top of the list. Merry Maids found itself in second with Bliss Maids and Mommy Maids rising to the third spot.
Merry Maids of Oklahoma City took the top prize from readers ready to recommend the company to others. You’ve Got it Maid! and Magic Services were also in the top three.
Cosmetic or Plastic Surgeon
There are businesses dedicated to making you look and feel your best, and then there are businesses that go beyond expectations. Tulsa voted Tulsa Surgical Arts’ Dr. Angelo Cuzalina and Dr. James Koehler as the best for everything from tummy tucks to facial reconstruction. Praise also goes to Dr. Joey Manduano, second, and to Dr. Mark Mathers of the Center for Plastic Surgery.
Dr. Jayesh Panchal and Genesis Plastic Surgery’s Dr. Tim R. Love are at the top of Oklahoma City’s list when you want to consider a procedure. Dr. Norman S. Levine placed second, and Dr. Justin Jones of Waterford Plastic Surgery placed third.
Dentist
If you have to go in for some serious dental work, consider going to the best. Readers told us two docs that are tops in Tulsa. Dr. Michael Kincaid and Dr. Chris Ward both placed first as best dentists. Dr. Greg Smith and Dr. Mike Hinkle followed in second with Dr. Andrew Carletti winning the third spot.
Oklahoma City’s favorite dentist is Dr. Christopher Haffner, while readers selected Dr. Ashley Hancock and Dr. Nathan Guilford of Toothbrusher’s Dental close behind for second. Readers also like Dental Depot and its playful approach to family dental care.
Dry Cleaners/Laundry
Your best suits and dresses need special care, and Oklahoma Magazine readers tell us Yale Cleaners is hands-down the best for dry cleaning and laundering services around Tulsa. Fox Cleaners and Spiffy’s Cleaners made it to second. LaMode Cleaners and Brookside Cleaners round out favorites.
Trustworthiness comes in a clothes bag from Parkway Cleaners, Oklahoma City’s favorite care for those precious threads. BEST Cleaners and Nichols Hills Cleaners did well, too, with American Cleaners and Manhattan Cleaners rising to third place.
Event or Party Planner
To have a good time at your party or special event, you will need to plan. Better yet, hire someone to do it for you. Phil Long is once again Tulsa readers’ favorite event and party planner followed by Arin Robinson of Zinke Design and Lynn Wheatley of Lasting Impressions of Tulsa. Talmadge Powell comes highly recommended in third.
Little Surprises Design’s Rebecca Thai’s work has impressed the readers in Oklahoma City enough to give her honors for best in trade in town. In second are Sacha Patires of Whimsical Weddings & Events and Lindsay Gibson. Third are Judy Lehmbeck of Judy Lehmbeck Bridal & Party along with Jane Kelly of JJ Kelly.
Florist
Fresh flowers can send greetings, warmth and comfort to the receiver. When Tulsa gives, it goes to Toni’s Flowers & Gifts, readers’ best floral service. Petal Pushers came in at second while Mrs. DeHaven’s Flower Shop, Mary Murray’s Flowers and Stems sealed the third place finish.
New Leaf Florist is Oklahoma City’s favorite place to find centerpieces and all the makings of a beautiful bouquet for every occasion. In second are Oh So Blush and Tony Foss Flowers, while Trochta’s Flowers & Greenhouses comes in third.
Funeral Service
Families need dignity and peace of mind when planning a funeral for a loved one. In Tulsa, readers go with Moore Funeral Homes for that assurance. The family has been serving the city since 1929, but goes back even further. Ninde Funeral Directors and Floral Haven are second on the list followed by Fitzgerald Funeral Service and Schaudt Funeral Service.
Not only is Hahn-Cook/Street & Draper Funeral Directors Oklahoma City readers’ top preference in 2011 for funeral service arrangements, it’s been that way for more than 100 years. Vondel L. Smith & Sons Mortuary and Mercer-Adams Funeral Service also made the cut in second and third.
Green Company
Green living is becoming more a way of life, and adventurous businesses are making the transition, too. With the motto of “Think Green, Save Blue,” Eco Green Mobile Detailing cleans your car without using any water, making the company golden. Also on the list are The Metropolitan Environmental Trust in second and a tie for third between Solatube and Sustainable Tulsa.
Green builder Dwellings rose from last year’s second place to the top in Oklahoma City. Sunrise Alternative Energy made its own impression followed by Airfield Systems.
Hair Salon
A good cut can make you feel better than you know, so make sure you go somewhere highly recommended, somewhere like Ihloff Salon and Day Spa and ARCS Tulsa. Tulsa voters made these two standout salons their top picks for The Best of the Best, but iidentity salon and Michael Brothers Hair aren’t far behind in second. Neither are Bella Vita Spa & Salon and Cypress Avenue Salon in third.
Eden Salon takes top honors with its reputation for style excellence in Oklahoma City. Cottonwood Salon Spa fared well in second followed by Schardin and Company, Trichology Salon and Velvet Monkey Salon in a three-way tie as best in third place.
Health Club
Your health is nothing to take lightly, and both Tulsa and Oklahoma City have the facilities to keep body and mind in shape. Tulsa’s big winners are Saint Francis Health Zone and St. John Siegfried Health Club sharing the No. 1 spot followed by Sky Fitness & Wellbeing. The YMCA and Gold’s Gym finished well at third.
Oklahoma City’s Aspen Athletic Club is this year’s readers’ choice for the best equipment, trainers and facilities followed by the YMCA and then Pacer Fitness.
Health Insurance
When readers in both Tulsa and Oklahoma City call on a business for their health insurance concerns and needs, they go to two more than any others. Both Blue Cross Blue Shield of Oklahoma and CommunityCare come highly recommended. UnitedHealthcare places second and Aetna is third.
Home/Auto Insurance
Just as important as health insurance, readers in both Tulsa and Oklahoma City put their trust in State Farm Insurance more than any other along with Farmers Insurance Group in second and a tie for third between AAA and Allstate.
Hospice
Careful thought goes into choosing hospice care for a loved one. When making a loved one’s last days comfortable, Tulsa goes to Hospice of Green Country, readers’ first choice, followed by Saint Francis Hospice and Grace Hospice tying for second. The nonprofit Clarehouse once again makes the list in third.
Life Care Oklahoma in Norman was voted as best in Oklahoma City. Good Shepherd Hospices places second and INTEGRIS Hospice is third.
Hospital
Tulsa has a fine assemblage of health care options and facilities, and this year, readers made Saint Francis Health System their top choice for everything from emergency room services to regular check-ups. Close behind is St. John Health System in second and three highly reputed systems – Hillcrest Medical Center, SouthCrest Hospital and Oklahoma State University Medical Center – in third place.
Oklahoma City readers made their choice and sent INTEGRIS Hospital to the top of the list along with Mercy Health System Oklahoma and University of Oklahoma Medicine in a tie for second. St. Anthony’s Hospital rounds out the top three places.
Investment Firm
When it comes to managing personal wealth and financial security, readers across the state trust Morgan Stanley Smith Barney and Merrill Lynch with their investments. Not far behind at the top of the list are UBS Financial Services and Charles Schwab in second. Ameriprise Financial and Wells Fargo tied for third.
Law Firm
Good, sensible legal counsel is a necessity at some point in life. In Tulsa, two law firms have been named The Best of the Best again. Conner & Winters and Gable Gotwals are tops in readers’ books followed by Hall Estill in second and Latham, Wagner, Steele & Lehman in third.
Oklahoma City preferred the expertise and experience of Crowe & Dunlevy. The team at Foliart, Huff, Ottaway & Bottom made the list at second followed by McAfee & Taft.
Life Insurance
Whose insurance would you trust your life with? Readers go with New York Life Insurance time and again for the assurance and confidence of caring for their loved ones. American Fidelity Assurance Co. came in a close second followed by two firms – MetLife and Liberty Mutual – in the top ranks.
Limousine & Transportation Service
So you want to ride in style, show a little indulgence or need extra comfort and a chauffeur for a special occasion? Tulsa likes Kristal Limousine and, for a large group, Party Express Bus. Galaxy Limousine and Old Urban Trolley make the list at second with Racing Limos of Tulsa roaring in at third.
Kings Worldwide Transportation is at the top of the list in Oklahoma City, but Paris Limousine isn’t far behind. A Luxury Limo pulls in for the last spot at the top.
Medical Spa
Medical spas are about serious care for your skin, and the results keep clients coming back for a good reason. In Tulsa, six businesses have been named the best. Skin Medic and Utica Square Skin Care tied for first followed in second by Skin Care Institute and Skin Renewal of Tulsa. Emerge Medical Day Spa and Clinical Care Skin Solutions fill out the ranks.
Of all the choices in Oklahoma City, readers made BodyTrends Day Spa their best pic along with Mariposa MedSpa in second and Advanced Aesthetics in final place.
Moving Service
You could call your friends and relatives with trucks to help you move all those boxes and furniture to a new dwelling, but why not call professionals, who you don’t have to feed afterward? Tulsa’s best are All My Sons Moving & Storage followed by Moving Solutions and All My Brothers Moving Co. in second and Castle Moving and Two Scots Moving & Storage in third.
In Oklahoma City, readers look to Little Guys Movers the most followed by 2 Fellas & A Big Vehicle and A-1 Bullseye Moving. Tying for third are All My Sons Moving & Storage and Amazing Movers.
Nursing Home
A quality, caring nursing home can make a healthy difference in the life of an elderly loved one. Saint Simeon’s Episcopal Home, voted best in town, is that place. Readers also like Oklahoma Methodist Manor and University Village.
Kindred Hospital Oklahoma City is tops in service for that city followed closely by Grace Living Center and then by Bellevue Health & Rehabilitation Center.
Ophthalmologist
Your vision is precious, and Tulsa readers believe Dr. Mark Cascairo and Dr. Marc Goldberg are the ones to trust with your peepers. They were voted best in town, but also consider Dr. Ben Pettigrove and Dr. Marc Abel, both of whom many readers recommend in second, and Dr. Dan Langley.
Oklahoma City’s top choice is Dr. Stanley Muenzler followed closely by Dr. Jonathan Drummond. Dr. James Richard and Dr. Scott Forester of Forester Vision Source fill out the top places.
Optometrist
Need glasses? Tulsa readers recommend a visit to Dr. Denise Roddy for her experience and great customer service. Dr. Robert Zoellner comes in next for convenience and value. In third are Dr. Billie Walsh and Dr. Chad Edwards.
Oklahoma City voted Dr. Ralph Latimer as best followed by Dr. Pepper Martin of Norman Vision Source and, tying for third, Dr. Joseph Phillips and Dr. Travis Gittins of Brixton Opticians.
Orthodontist
Your smile is your greeting card and makes you approachable. To keep your teeth in the best health, Tulsa goes to Dr. Jerry Smith and Dr. Thomas Kirkpatrick more than any other orthodontists. Second and third, however, are not far behind. Dr. Kevin Duffy and Dr. Mark Andregg have more than plenty of fans.
Oklahoma City readers have nothing to fear from Dr. Dale McCune, the city’s favorite, followed by Dr. J. Peter Kierl and Dr. Terry L. Cottrell, tied for second. Dr. Tim Shannon and Dr. Michael Kierl tied for third.
Personal Trainer
It’s easy to tell everyone you’re going to lose weight, but for those of us who need the extra motivation, personal trainers are the way to go. Tulsans get toned with Jimmy Lee of Jimmy Lee’s Total Fitness, but they also like Aaron Henson of Fitness Together South Tulsa. Pilates specialist Leah Ashlock of Carbon comes in at third.
At Oklahoma City’s BodyTrends Day Spa, readers flock to train with Joey Codner for his comprehensive workouts. Don Oliver of DO Fitness and Kesha Cross of Western Avenue Gym came in, respectively, at second and third.
Place to Call When You Smash Your Luxury Car
Driving on the highway, you come upon big truck hauling debris. A pebble flies out of the haul and hits your windshield, damaging it. When this happens, Tulsa relies on Hourglass Collision Repair more than any other. Karoll Martin Paint & Body Shop, second, is also a favorite for quality and efficiency. Barron & Hart isn’t far behind in demand.
Collision Clinic in Oklahoma City has most others beat when it comes to readers, but Collision King isn’t far behind. Tying for third are Legends Auto Collision and GW and Son Auto Body.
Realtor
House hunting is less excruciating when you have a good Realtor. McGraw Realtors’ Jacki Crews is Tulsa’s favorite and most recommended, according to readers’ votes. Peter Walter of Walter & Associates also has a great reputation for helping clients find the right dwelling space, as does Janet Tinkler Youngblood of Chinowth & Cohen Realtors, who rounds out the top in third.
Simon Shingleton of Keller Williams and Tim Rasmussen also of Keller Williams tied for top honors in the Oklahoma City market, but they were followed by Karen Johnston of Metro Mark and Marta McCubbin of First Source Real Estate. Wendy Chong of RE/MAX in third means there’s no shortage of great Realtors in the city.
Retirement Community
Retirement should be like a permanent vacation following those many years of hard work. Readers told us that Montereau in Warren Woods is one of the best in Tulsa along with two stellar facilities tied for second, Senior Star Living and Inverness Village. Also look for comfort and care at Town Village Tulsa and Country Club of Woodland Hills.
Residents find comfort at Statesman Club Retirement Community in Oklahoma City, making it the top choice in OKC followed by Epworth Villa in second and Spanish Cove Retirement Community in the final spot.
Spa
Everyone deserves to be pampered from time to time. Spa Southern Hills does it so well that Tulsa readers voted it best for facial and body treatments, massages and everything that makes you look and feel refreshed. Also high on the list are Bella Vita Spa and Salon and Ihloff Salon and Day Spa tying for second and European Spa and Salon at third.
Edmond’s Cottonwood Salon Spa’s comprehensive approach to grooming and conditioning made it OKC readers’ top choice. Eden Salon follows, and Renaissance Salon & Spa rounds out the top at No. 3.
Staffing Agency
Time doesn’t stop for the understaffed, so businesses rely on staffing agencies for everything from temporary employees to searches for temp to full-time workers. In Tulsa, Part-Time Pros has the distinction of The Best of the Best. Key Personnel and Express Employment Professionals tie at second followed by Green Country Staffing and Premier Staffing, both in third.
Oklahoma City’s Express Employment Professionals went straight to the top for reliability. Addison Group finished in second, while readers gave third to Accel Financial Staffing.
Veterinarian/Animal Hospital
People love their pets and want the best for them. When health is a concern, owners also want an esteemed professional’s opinion. Once again, that choice in Tulsa is VCA Woodland Animal Hospital. Coming in second is Dr. Dan Danner of Animal Medical & Surgical Hospital. Jacox Animal Clinic and McKinney Animal Hospital tied for the final place at the top.
Readers in Oklahoma City prefer Nichols Hills Veterinary Clinic to any other, but Neel Veterinary Hospital and Classen View Veterinary Clinic came close in third.
Wedding Cakes
Shows on adventures in cake baking are all over television, but you really only need to know where the locals go to buy wedding cakes. In Tulsa, Ann’s Bakery and Merritt’s Bakery are the most recommended establishments when it’s time to fill that tall order. Readers also like Nibbles by Grandeur Affaires and Ludger’s Cakes, second and third, respectively.
Sugar is the word and the name of Oklahoma City’s favorite local shop from which to order four tiers of fondant. Sugar is the city’s top choice, followed by Edmond’s Mishelle Handy Cakes and Amy Cakes in second and Rosebeary’s Designs in Baking in third.
Wedding Photographer
Wedding memories last forever, especially when a great photographer captures the nuptial date through a lens. In Tulsa, Chris Humphrey Photographer is the first-place choice for documenting everything from the bride putting on make-up to toddlers dancing together at the reception. Ace Cuervo has left his own mark on wedding photography and portraiture. He is second followed by enCre Photography Gallery and Gallery Wedding, tied for third.
Jesse Reich Photography edged out all the other shutterbugs to be named Oklahoma City’s favorite. He is followed by Colorband Photo Artisan and Shannon Ho Photography in second and Josh McCullock and David Baxter Photography in third.
Wireless Service
Admit it, you can’t remember how you ever made it through life before your cell phone. You can, however, remember the companies that make having one a hassle. Fortunately, Oklahomans know a good thing when they hear and see it. AT&T is the best in state. U.S. Cellular and Sprint keep people connected, reserving a second place finish, while Verizon users speak their minds to put the company in the final top-tier space.
Jack Arnold’s uncanny ability to take inspiration from the Old World and adapt it to gracious modern living once again earns him the top spot among Tulsa readers. The sophisticated designs of Alan Madewell and Brian Freese bring these two renowned architects in next on our list. The versatile Michael R. Dankbar rounds out our list of favorites.
OKC readers chose Rand Elliott, famous for world-class, dramatic, yet minimal, architecture. Brian Fitzsimmons, specializing in modern design with an eye toward sustainability takes our second spot, closely followed by Robert Fillmore, who has designed European-inspired homes for more than 50 years.
Bathroom Fixtures
Oklahoma Magazine readers know where to shop to create the bath of their dreams. In Tulsa, they most often turn to Ferguson Bath & Kitchen Gallery, which offers state-of-the-art appliances including extensive selections from GE. Heatwave Supply Co. is also a popular choice with brands such as Kohler and Moen. Empire Kitchen & Bath and Hoffman Fixture Company tie for their well-known brands and years of superior service.
OKC readers turn to Morrison Supply Company for the latest collections and design trends. Next on the list is Ferguson Bath & Kitchen Gallery, another top choice for expert advice and trusted brands in OKC. Readers also look to Designer Hardware by Faye for their exclusive designs.
Cabinetry
Once again, Jay Rambo Co. comes in at the top of our list in Tulsa. Rambo has created custom cabinetry for some of Tulsa’s finest homes since 1953. The exquisite workmanship offered by Sullivan’s Custom Cabinetry earns them the next spot on our Tulsa list, and Mill Creek Lumber & Supply completes the list with extensive lines of quality cabinetry for kitchens and baths.
In OKC, our readers appreciate Ward Wood Products for their handcrafted unfinished cabinetry and desire to help each client achieve their dreams. Classic Kitchens, an exclusive Wood-Mode and Brookhaven dealer, comes in next on our list, and the multi-talented a karen black company is also a popular choice.
Designer Home Furnishings
Looking for furnishings with the exacting details that only the best in the industry can provide? Our readers turn to the shop of Tulsa design legends SR Hughes for livable modern design. In the second spot, Hawley Design Furnishings offers cutting edge modern furnishings. Richard Neel Interiors and Urban Furnishings, both offering contemporary and eclectic pieces, round out the list.
In OKC, readers visit BD Home in Classen Curve for pieces with form and function from the likes of Knoll and Ligne Roset. Readers also appreciate the extensive contemporary line offered at Dane Design. OKC’s Drexel Heritage store is an ever-popular choice for timeless designs.
Fencing
Whether you’re trying to keep the dogs in or prying eyes out, you want the best when fencing your home. Our Tulsa readers suggest Ace Fence & Gate as tops in the area, specializing in wood and chain link fences and custom gates. Jenks Fence is another popular choice for innovative custom work, and Aaron Fence Co. has been building top-quality enclosures since 1959.
In OKC, it’s Bidwell Fence & Deck our readers trust most often with their privacy and security needs. Lifetime Fence Co., in business since 1959, comes in second, closely followed by Allied Fence Company of Oklahoma City.
Flooring Company
Looking for the best carpet, tile or wood for your floors? C&C Tile & Carpet Co. is a name most Tulsans trust. It’s no wonder; they’ve been around since 1959. Mill Creek Carpet & Tile is another great choice for top brand names. Grigsby’s Carpet, Tile & Rug Gallery and Floorhaus Design Center complete our list.
Brewer Carpet One is the top choice in OKC for a full range of products and prices to fit any budget. Next up are the flooring experts Brim’s Carpet. Rounding out the list is The Floor Trader, a relatively new company making a big splash.
Furniture Store
Mathis Brothers Furniture has become a household name in Oklahoma, and the full-service retailer is the place Tulsans flock to most often. Tulsa readers also love top name brands and service at North Carolina Furniture Mart and I.O. Metro’s contemporary furnishings. Sunshine Furniture and Snow’s Furniture are also popular with our readers.
Mathis Brothers Furniture also reigns supreme among readers in the city where the store got its start back in 1960. OKC readers also love the Old World charm of everything at Hemispheres Furniture. Completing the list are Galleria Furniture and Castleberry’s Ethan Allen Home Interiors, two stores offering a range of styles and price points.
Heating & Air
Cold winters and sweltering summers mean we need professionals we can trust to keep us comfortable. In Tulsa, it’s Airco Service, celebrating its 50th anniversary, which our readers turn to most. Air Assurance in Broken Arrow comes in next on our list, and McKinney Heating & Air Conditioning and Robison Heating & Air tie to finish out the top three.
Air Comfort Solutions ranks tops in the OKC area for quality heat & air installation and repair. Hinton Refrigeration Co. is another popular choice; they’ve been keeping things comfy for more than 50 years. Drabek & Hill completes our list.
Home Builder
Building a home is a big deal, and choosing the right builder is imperative. Once again, luxury builder Jordan & Sons tops our list. Barron & McClary General Contractors are also a trusted source, as are the pros at Hollinger and Associates. Simmons Homes and Brian Wiggs round out our list.
David Giasson Construction gets top billing from OKC readers looking to build a new home. Brent Swift Design Build’s reputation for quality and craftsmanship place them next on the list, and a well-known name in OKC building, Odom Construction, also gets points from our readers.
Home Improvement/ Appliance Store
When you’re looking to DIY or find the latest washer and dryer, there are a few stores that have it all. In Tulsa, our readers say Lowe’s or Hahn Appliance Warehouse are the best places to go. The Home Depot and Metro Appliances & More come in next. Last but not least, The Maytag Store is a name you can trust.
With everything you need under one roof, Lowe’s is also the top choice in the 405. The Home Depot also gets high marks in OKC, as does Harry’s TV, Video & Appliance. Metro Appliances & More and Conn’s round out our list of top stores.
In-Home Theater
Ready to turn that spare room into a multiplex. Here’s where to go. In Tulsa, Best Buy and Video Revolution are the top choices to make your home theater dreams a reality. The Phonograph Electronic Architecture offers expert products and advice, and the folks at Audio Dimensions or Elite Sound can also hook you up.
The selection and value found at national retailer Best Buy makes it the top choice for readers in OKC, too. Next on the list is Onyx Theaters, offering custom design and automation for a luxury home theater. Audio Dimensions and HESI round out our top three.
Interior Designer
Topping our list of The Best of the Best interior designers are two Tulsa legends, the king of Country French, Charles Faudree of Charles Faudree Antiques and Interiors and Doug Campbell of Campbell Design Associates. Tulsans also love the timeless style of Chris Murphy and SR Hughes. Dindy Foster Interiors and Leslie Elliot are also names our readers trust.
In OKC, Stephen G. Edwards is widely known as the go to guy for high style and sophistication. Next on our list is David Stinson of Design House Interiors, an up-and-coming designer who’s already making a splash. And completing our list is David Gipson of David Gipson Design.
Kitchen Designer
More so than ever, the kitchen has become the hub of the home, and homeowners are turning to top designers to realize their kitchen dreams. Nationally recognized Kitchen Ideas tops our Tulsa list, followed by the ultra modern Pohlenz Cucine Moderne and Showcase Kitchens and Baths. Carriage House Design, Imperial Kitchen and 180? Kitchen and Bath Design Group tie for the bronze.
a karen black company is the kitchen designer most admired by our OKC readers. Her projects cover a range of styles. Urban Kitchens takes the second spot in our top three and Culinary Kitchens also scores points with readers.
Landscape Designer
When looking to add beauty to the outside of the home, Tulsa readers turn to Hardscape Materials, experts in stone features and water gardens. Well-known landscape architect Clare Ashby ASLA Landscape comes in next on our list, followed by a tie between Adam Roberts Landscaping and Pete Meyday. In OKC, CLS & Associates is the number one choice to give your home a little curb appeal. Randy Marks is another top choice for design with the environment in mind, and nationally recognized landscape architect Brian J. Dougherty completes our list.
Lawn and Garden Store
When looking for beautiful flowers and hardy shrubbery with the expert advice to make them thrive, our readers have the 411. In Tulsa, they most often head to Southwood Landscape & Nursery or Lowe’s. Sanders Nursery & Distribution Center is another popular choice, as is The Home Depot. Tied for the third spot on our list are Ted and Debbie’s Flower & Garden and Ace Hardware.
TLC Florist & Greenhouses, serving the OKC area for more than 30 years, takes the top spot on our list. Next is Horn Seed Co.; it’s a great place for hard-to-find items. Finishing off our list of the best is Lowe’s.
Lawn Maintenance
Everyone loves a pristine lawn, but we don’t all have the time or patience to make it a reality. Luckily, there are professionals to help. In Tulsa, our readers say TruGreen is the place to go for complete lawn care. Lawn America ties for the second spot on the list along with Mother Nature’s Pest Control. Rounding out our top three is Superior Lawn Maintenance.
Absolute Lawn Management & Landscaping is the go to source for a lush, green lawn in OKC, say our readers. Also, on our list is Turf Appeal, offering a range of services for homeowners. Scotts Lawn Services is also a great choice in the OKC area.
Lighting Store
Whether you’re choosing lighting for form or function, these Oklahoma stores have it all. Garbe’s, a trusted source in Tulsa for more than 40 years, once again tops our list. The wide selection at Andrews Lighting & Hardware Gallery earns the next spot on our list, and LifeStyles Lighting, Furniture & Hardware completes it.
The top choice in OKC is Hunzicker Lighting Gallery, which started out selling light bulbs in 1920. Andrews Lighting & Hardware Gallery is a popular choice for lighting needs in OKC, too, as is LifeStyles Lighting, Furniture & Hardware.
Paint Store
Our readers know that paint is more than just color, and top quality products are worth the investment. In Tulsa, they turn to Spectrum Paint and Anchor Paints most often for the best paints and advice. Another trusted name, Elder Paint & Wallpaper, takes the next spot on our list. Sherwin-Williams and Kelly-Moore Paints share the next place in our top three.
Spectrum Paint is also the top choice for our OKC readers who appreciate their selection of well-known brands. Sherwin-Williams is another household name our readers turn to, and H-I-S Paint is an OKC institution that has been making their own paints since 1972.
Pool Designer
A home pool is a luxury Oklahomans truly appreciate, especially around August. In Tulsa, our readers turn to two renowned designers, Jody Crosby and Vivion Pools, to bring their dreams to life. The nationally certified builders at Baker Pools also ranked highly in our survey, and Fiesta Pools & Spas and Dolphin Pools also make our list.
Our OKC readers recommend Prestige Pools & Spas to create the perfect backyard oasis. Outdoor Escapes in Moore is another top choice for adding a little water to your life. Blue Haven Pools & Spas has been satisfying customers since 1959.
Real Estate Company
In today’s real estate market, it’s more important than ever to have a competent real estate company looking out for your interest, whether you’re buying or selling. In Tulsa, our readers choose McGraw Realtors and Chinowth & Cohen Realtors to seal the deal. Walter & Associates is another local firm known for its service and integrity. Two nationally known companies, Keller Williams Realty and Coldwell Banker, complete our list.
OKC buyers and sellers choose the worldwide resources of the experts at Keller Williams Realty as the top real estate company. Local legends Churchill-Brown take the next spot on our list, followed closely behind by national powerhouse, RE/MAX.
Remodeler
Remodeling an existing home is a particular job that requires specialized skills. Bill Powers and David Trebilcock are the two builders our readers turn to for turning an old home into a dream home. Red Dog Construction and Cowen Construction share the second slot on our list, and Rick Ellison of Chesapeake Builders finishes out our top three.
Brent Swift Design Build got its start remodeling homes around the OU campus. They’ve moved on to a variety of projects, but OKC readers still turn to them for remodeling. No job is too big or too small for Gibraltar Construction Company our second place winner, and the name says it all for our last business, Remodeling Concepts.
Roofer
For such an important part of a home, you want the best money can buy. In Tulsa, our readers say that Roberts Roofing & Construction is the one to turn to. Next on the list is A-Best Roofing, a trusted name in Tulsa for more than 20 years, followed closely by 30-year-old All American Roofing.
OKC readers say the folks at Elliott Roofing will treat your roof as if it were their own. Basey’s Roofing, which specializes in re-roofing, takes the next spot on the list, just ahead of the 30-plus-year-old Salazar Roofing & Construction.
Security
Your home is likely your biggest investment, and you need top quality security to protect it. Tulsa readers say it’s TNT Security Services that they turn to in order to provide peace of mind. Sharing the second spot on the list are ADT Security Services and Advance Alarms. Guardian Security Systems completes our list.
The state-of-the-art technology offered by ADT Security Services helps earn them the top spot on our OKC list. With more than 25 years experience, Comtec Security Solutions takes the next spot on the list, and finishing out the top three is Guardian Security Systems.
Woodworking
Handcrafted woodwork is a hallmark of a luxurious home. Mill Creek Lumber & Supply, in Tulsa, is the top choice for our readers looking for beautiful artistry rendered in wood. The exquisite workmanship of C&W Custom Woodworks earns them the next spot on our list. Woodcraft, servicing the DIY woodworker, also makes the list of winners.
Woodcraft, with top-of-the line supplies and tools, earns the No. 1 spot on the OKC list. Taking the second spot is Suburban Cabinet Shop, which has been creating works of wooden art for more than 50 years. Jerry McAlister’s Custom Woodworking and Custom Furniture rounds out our woodworking winners.
