Tasha Does Tulsa

Tulsa Valentine's Day Round-Up

tashadoestulsa@gmail.com (Tasha) — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 04:00:00 +0000

Here it is, folks - the list of love you've been longing for. Here's what to do in Tulsa for Valentine's Day, Valentine's Day weekend and beyond.

Early Week

Tower Tots: Valentine's Tea Party (Green headings = Family friendly)
When: Tuesday, 10am
Where: Price Tower Arts Center in Bartlesville
Catch a morning story and activity hour for kids aged 3-6. Call ahead to register for this free event.

Valentine Craft
When: Thursday, 5pm
Where: Hicks Park, 3443 S. Mingo Road
Bring a friend and make a crafty valentine for that special someone. Be sure to pre-register by calling (918) 669-6355. Ages 8-13. Cost is $10.

Friday

Sweetheart T-Party
When: Friday, 10am
Where: Whiteside Community Center, 4009 S. Pittsburg Avenue
Celebrate V-Day with crafts, snacks and a general, overall, darned good time. For ages 2-5. Cost is $6.

Crayons! Improv
When: Friday, 7:30pm
Where: Agora Coffeehouse, 4959 S. 79th E. Ave.
Don't miss the special Crayons! Valentine's Day show. Hilton Price, a renowned Tulsa stand-up comedian, will be on hand first thing. Tickets are $10 at the door.

I Love You Because (Red headings = Adult Couples Only)
When: Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 2pm
Where: Tulsa PAC, 110 E. Second Street
Like Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, only less wordy. A foursome of 20-somethings are in search of love in the hustle and bustle of New York City. Warning: This one's not for the kids. Tickets are $25.

The Sleeping Beauty

When: Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 3pm

Where: Tulsa PAC, 110 E. Second Street

Though I watched the Disney movie version of this classic fairy tale about 167,821 times as a child, something tells me the Tulsa Ballet rendition of one of the most technically challenging classical ballets is going to blow it out of the water. Marcello Angelini uses grand staging and gets and beautifully crafted costumes to breathe new life into the original, 1890 version of the ballet by Marius Petipa. The Tchaikovsky score is, I'm sure, not bad, either. Tickets are $20-70. Plus, if you think the time is right, you can propose on stage with the cast of The Sleeping Beauty. *swoon* Be still, my beating heart.

Love Letters

When: Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 2pm

Where: Green Country Event Center, 12000 E. 31st Street

'Round the Bend Players, Tulsa's first senior theater troupe, will present a staged reading of A.R. Gurney's Love Ltters. Tickets are $8.

Saturday

PHOTO

Sweetheart Run
When: Saturday, 8:15am (5K), 9:15am (10K)
Where: Mohawk Park, on 36th Street North
So in love that you could run a 10K? Maybe you've been dating awhile and you've learned she doesn't put the cap back on her toothpaste - okay, so you're at least excited enough to run a 5K. Register for this lovers' race at Fleet Feet at 61st and Yale. The cost starts at $20.

Free Family Day @ Philbrook

When: 10:30am-4pm

Where: Philbrook Museum, 2727 S. Rockford Ave.

After a Valentine's Day weekend breakfast, take your significant other - and hey, why not bring the family, too? - to Philbrook Museum for Free Family Day. Enjoy art, spend time together, get your hands dirty with some hands-on art projects, tour the museum and even embark on a scavenger hunt. Go for romantic or go for family-friendly - either way, it's at Philbrook this Saturday.

Down with Love! Anti-Valentine Fest
When: Saturday, 2pm
Where: Zarrow Regional Library, 2224 W. 51st Street
Forget V-Day and make anti-valentines, design a zombie teddy bear and/or a voodoo doll of your ex. Enjoy the chocolate fountain and proudly proclaim that love stinks. Ages 12-18.

Couples Massage Class
When: 2-4pm
Where: The Canebrake in the Yoga Barn, 33241 E. 732nd Road
Bring your special someone and learn basic massage techniques for relaxation and stress relief. Cost is $90 per couple - truly a deal for two people for two hours. Call (918) 485-5791 to sign up.

Wine Tasting
When: 5-6:30pm
Where: The Canebrake, 33241 E. 732nd Road
Get three Italian wines - a red, a full-bodied ruby port and a sparkling prosecco - for $20, plus hors d'oeuvres like roasted vegetable bruschetta, wild boar sausage with fennel tomato sauce, prosciutto with roasted pear and cheese board with figs and pomegranates. Call (918) 485-5791 for reservations.

Daddy Daughter Dance
When: 5:30pm; 7:30pm
Where: Main Place, 1800 S. Main Street in Broken Arrow
Little girls grow up fast, dads. Don't miss this chance to dance with her while she can still stand on your shoes. Look for music from DJ Connection, refreshments, a photographer to take photos of dads and their special little ladies and, of course, dancing. For dads and girls aged 4-14. Dress is formal or casual, whatever you decide. Cost is $5; tickets must be purchased in advance. Call (918) 259-6550.

I Love You, My Darling, Now Die!
When: 6:30pm
Where: Whispering Vines Winery, 7475 W. 51st Street in Tulsa
Dr. Bill McGrew is a foremost authority on love. He'll take your question on the mysteries of love and romance, sure, but could it be possible that someone has murder on his mind? A three-course meal catered by Amici's (you know, that new Italian restaurant in Sand Springs everyone is raving about) are only part of the deal. Make your reservations now, right now - this show sells out every year. Tickets are $64.95 per person. Dress code is After 5.

Wild Hearts Ball
When: Saturday, 7pm
Where: Dennis R. Neill Equality Center, 621 E. Fourth Street
Looking for a wild-yet-free party this Valentine's Day weekend? Join Oklahomans for Equality at the annual Wild Hearts Ball. Groove to tunes laid down by DJ Zeke, belly up to the cash bar and get your picture taken with cupid.

Brenda Johnson & The Jazz Rhapsody Trio

When: 7pm

Where: Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame, 111 E. First Street

With special guest Tavis Miner. Don't miss out on the cash bar, desserts, champagne and, yes, even roses. Cost is $20 in advance, or $25 at the door.

I Love You Because

When: Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 2pm

Where: Tulsa PAC, 110 E. Second Street

Like Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, only less wordy. A foursome of 20-somethings are in search of love in the hustle and bustle of New York City. Warning: This one's not for the kids. Tickets are $25.

The Sleeping Beauty

When: Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 3pm

Where: Tulsa PAC, 110 E. Second Street

Love Letters

When: Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 2pm

Where: Green Country Event Center, 12000 E. 31st Street

'Round the Bend Players, Tulsa's first senior theater troupe, will present a staged reading of A.R. Gurney's Love Letters. Tickets are $8.

Sunday

Skate Date
When: Sunday, 10am-10pm
Where: BOK Center, 200 N. Denver Ave.
Don't miss one of my personal favorite Tulsa events. Ice skate hand-in-hand on the BOK Center's 17,000-square-foot indoor ice rink, snack on heart-shaped concessions to your hearts' content, watch skating demonstrations and maybe even win a prize or two. There's even face painting for the kids. Admission to the building is free and skate rental is $10 for adults and $5 for kids under age three and for those who bring their own skates. When you've skated until you can skate no more, hop a horse-drawn carriage ride through the streets of downtown Tulsa. A couple rides for $20 and a family of four rides for $25.

I Love You Because

When: Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 2pm

Where: Tulsa PAC, 110 E. Second Street

The Sleeping Beauty

When: Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 3pm

Where: Tulsa PAC, 110 E. Second Street

The Jeff Shadley Band

When: 5pm

Where: Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame, 111 E. First Street

Featuring Olivia Duhon. Admission prices start at $15.

V-Day Drop-Off at Bounce U
When: 5-9pm
Where: Bounce U Tulsa, 8922 S. Memorial Drive,
What set of parents couldn't use a little alone time this V-Day? Bring 'em by Bounce U and have 'em nice and worn out by 9pm. Cost is $20 per child, or $15 for siblings.

Valentine's Dance with the Round-Up Boys

When: Doors at 6pm, Show at 7pm

Where: Cain's Ballroom, 423 N. Main Street

Scoot your boots this Valentine's Day to the sounds of the purveyors of western swing. Tickets are $8.

David Phelps Valentine's Concert

When: 7pm

Where: Broken Arrow PAC, 701 S. Main Street in Broken Arrow

He's been called "The Voice." He's wowed audiences around the globe. He has performed for presidents and dignitaries. I'm talking about David Phelps, and he'll be in Broken Arrow this V-Day to help you romance the night away. Tickets start at $25.

Chippendales

When: 7pm

Where: Osage Event Center, 951 W. 36th Street North

Hubba hubba - the Chippendales are in Tulsa, and they're bringing the perfect solution to any Valentine's Day romance rut with them. Tickets are $20.

An Evening with Kris Kristofferson

When: 7:30pm

Where: Mabee Center, 7777 S. Lewis Ave.

Widely regarded as the greatest country songwriter since Hank Williams, Kristofferson's catalogue has been covered by over 500 artists, including Waylon Jennings, Janis Joplin, Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson, The Rolling Stones and Eric Clapton. He'll be right here in Tulsa on V-Day to serenade you all the way to Monday morning. Tickets start at $25.

What are YOU doing to celebrate Valentine's Day (or not) in Tulsa this year?

Parting Ways with Paci

tashadoestulsa@gmail.com (Tasha) — Sun, 07 Feb 2010 06:15:00 +0000

I haven't been completely forthcoming with you, my dear readers. You see, when my son and I went to the dentist a few weeks ago, we got some news that, at the time, I elected not to share with you. It's shocking information, yes, and while I didn't think at the time that I should break the news (I did, after all, have to inform friends and family first), I think the time has come for me to come clean. To be honest. To bear the naked truth.

Get all the horrid, life-changing details from my blog at Ttownmoms.com.

What to Do in Tulsa This Weekend

tashadoestulsa@gmail.com (Tasha) — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 04:39:00 +0000

As heard every Friday morning on The KRMG Morning News with Joe Kelley, here's what to do in Tulsa this weekend.

Friday, Feb. 5

Tasha's Pick: 24-Hour Video Race (Purple headings = Arts & Theatre Events)

When: Friday, 11pm

Where: Living Arts, 307 E. Brady Street

Partner with seven other creatives and make a short video based on an impromptu theme, using a specific prop and line of dialogue to be determined at the kick-off of the 24-hour period. After the midnight deadline on Saturday night, cash prizes and awards will be given to the best 18-and-under student, college student, non-student 19 and over and animation videos, with a juror's award and a people's award, too. Be sure to pre-register - cost is $30. Winners will be announced Feb. 18.

Oklahoma Mission of Mercy Free Dental Clinic (Red headings = Community/Other Events)
When: 5am-5pm, Friday and Saturday
Where: Tulsa Convention Center, 100 Civic Center
Get there early to secure your spot in the dentist's chair. Cleaning, extractions and teeth restoration will be available. By the way, it's free - as in, fuh-ree.

Tulsa Boat, Sport & Travel Show (Orange headings = Sports Events)
When: 12pm-10pm Friday; 10am-10pm Saturday; 11am-6pm Sunday
Where: Expo Square, QuikTrip Center, 4145 E. 21st Street
Think you can handle more than 460,000 square feet of all make and manner of boats, water and snow skiing goodies and info on camping resorts and lodges from just about everywhere? Then don't miss this annual show of anything and everything that's worth your money in the world of water sports and travel. Tickets are $10; kids under 12 get in free.

Oklahoma Kids' Wrestling
When: 4pm Friday; 9am Saturday
Where: Expo Square Pavilion, 1701 S. Louisville Ave.
If it's not football going on here in Oklahoma, it's wrestling. The Oklahoma Kids Wrestling Association will host the state championships for the 31st time this weekend. Come see how great wrestlers are made. Tickets are $7 for adults, $3 for kids.

Modern Materials Opening
When: 5-9pm
Where: Living Artspace, 307 E. Brady
The Art of the Quilt, with 24 fiber artists from across the nation presenting 30 quilted works, including two Oklahoma artists, opens in the Brady District this weekend. Cost is free.

Five by Rekk
When: 5-9pm
Where: Living Artspace, 307 E. Brady
"Five," an exhibition giving seven high school students one of their first professional opportunities, opens as part of the Brady Arts District First Friday Art Crawl.

Art for the Heart
When: 5-8pm for opening reception
Where: A Gallery of the Arts, 510 W. Will Rogers Boulevard in Claremore
Celebrate the third anniversary of this show and find that unique gift for your squishy-poo. The sale runs through Feb. 13.

First Friday at Tulsa Glassblowing Studio
When: 6pm
Where: 19 E. Brady Street
Join the folks at TGS for a free glassblowing demonstration (read: a free fire show). Watch as these professionals create heart-shaped paperweights and decorated heart-shaped vases. Did I mention that this event is free? Because it is.

Casting Crowns (Blue Headings = Music Events)
When: Doors at 6pm, show at 7pm
Where: SpiritBank Event Center, 10441 S. Regal Boulevard
In a six-year span with nearly 4.5 million album sales, a Grammy award, an American Music Award, 23 Dove awards and 8 chart-topping radio singles, Casting Crowns remains focused on discipleship through music. Kutless and Caleb open. Tickets start at $15.

House of Maps Opening
When: 6-8pm
Where: Tulsa Artists' Coalition, 9 E. Brady
Artist Yiren Gallagher transforms the TAC gallery into a room of maps. Within each lies a story of memory, attachment, separation or togetherness. Cost is free.

From the Tulsa Sound to the British Invasion

When: Friday, 7pm; Saturday, 7pm

Where: Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame, with Tulsa Symphony

Author and Oklahoma music expert John Wooley hosts this pair of concerts, complete with dinner and beverages. Tickets to the Friday concert at $85; Sunday, $25.

Bus Stop
When: Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 8pm
Where: Broken Arrow Community Playhouse, 1800 S. Main in Broken Arrow
Remember the old Marilyn Monroe flick, Bus Stop? Yeah. It's like that. It is, by the way, one of my most favorite plays ever. Tickets are $13 for adults, $10 for seniors, $9 for students and $6 for kids 12 and under.

Comedy Improv Weekend
When: Friday, 8pm
Where: Henthorne, 4825 S. Quaker Ave.
What happens at Adult and Teen Laughing Matter Improv show, stays at Adult and Teen Laughing Matter Improv show. Tickets are $5.

Eric & The Adams
When: Doors at 8pm, show at 8:30pm
Where: Cain's Ballroom, 423 N. Main Street
One of my very favorite Tulsa bands - a must-see show. Dante & The Hawks and Motive for Movement open. Tickets are $10.

TwoLips Burlesk
When: 9pm Friday; 9pm Saturday
Where: Nightingale Theater, 1416 E. Fourth Street
Tulsa can always count of the folks at the Nightingale for true-blue burlesque, vaudeville and cabaret, and this weekend is no different thanks to a new performance troupe in town. Featuring the talents of Poppy Pie, Honey Du Jour, Sinna' Bunnz, Cookie WhitNutz (!) and Tangy Tart, this show is sure to please. Tickets are $10.

Saturday, Feb. 6

Tasha's Pick: Independent Cause: Tulsa Project's Music Blog Launch Party

When: 8pm

Where: The Eclipse, 1336 E. Sixth Street

If you love music and/or Tulsa blogs, you're going to love Independent Cause, the new project of Colleen McCarty of The Collective Fame. Come celebrate the launch of what promises to be a killer read/view/listen.

Oklahoma Mission of Mercy Free Dental Clinic

When: 5am-5pm, Friday and Saturday

Where: Tulsa Convention Center, 100 Civic Center

Get there early to secure your spot in the dentist's chair. Cleaning, extractions and teeth restoration will be available. By the way, it's free - as in, fuh-ree.

RK Show Inc. Gun & Knife Show
When: 9am-5pm Saturday; 9am-4pm Sunday
Where: Expo Square, Exchange Center, 4145 E. 21st Street
Always remember this motto, folks: The word GUN is just one letter away from the word FUN (when enjoyed responsibly, of course). Tickets are $10 for adults, $4 for kids aged 6-12 and free for spawn under 6.

Half-Price Weekends at Tulsa Zoo (Green Headings = Stuff for Kids To Do)
When: 9am-5pm Saturday and Sunday
Where: Tulsa Zoo, 6421 E. 36th Street North
Beat cabin fever this winter with Tulsa Zoo's half-price weekends.

Momma's Saturday Book Club
When: 11:30am
Where: Joe Momma's, 112 S. Elgin Ave.
Amber Whitlach from The Nightingale Theater will read one of our personal favorites, The Dot. Hang around for a watercolor craft and balloon animal fun with The Amazing Christopher. Door prizes include goodies from Purple Glaze, Joe Momma's and Select Cinemas. All you pay for is the noms.

Safari's Mardi Gras Celebration
When: 12-5pm every Saturday and Sunday during February
Where: Safari's Animal Sanctuary, 26881 E. 58th Street
Wear your Mardi Gras beads to show your love of the animals and get into Safari's for half price.

V-Day Cards @ Philbrook
When: 1-4pm
Where: Philbrook Museum, 2727 S. Rockford Ave.
Kick Hallmark to the curb. Explore techniques like Xerox transfer, collage and hand-carving stamps to create your own one-of-a-kind cards to give to your special someone. Cost is $40 for not-yet-members, $32 for members.

Family Art Workshop
When: 1-2:30pm
Where: Gilcrease Museum, 1400 Gilcrease Museum Road
Get a tour of Gilcrease, thanks to a teaching artist. Then create your own work inspired by your gallery visit. This week the theme is What a Relief: The Masterworks of Charles Russell, Myers Galleries. And guess what - it's free. For kids aged 5-15.

Bass Pro Boat Show
When: 1pm Saturday; 1pm Sunday
Where: 101 Bass Pro Drive in Broken Arrow
Get all the boat deals in the Tracker Marine Boat Showroom at Bass Pro during its free boat show this weekend. Catch free educational seminars on topics from finding fish with electronics to local fishing tips, starting at 1pm Saturday and Sunday.

Valentine's Yappy Hour
When: 1-3pm
Where: The Dog Dish, 6502 E. 51st Street
Enjoy complementary sweet treats and take home a special Valentine from the folks at Tulsa's premier canine emporium.

STICKS/make:Tulsa Crafternoon
When: 2pm
Where: Cosmo Cafe, 3334 S. Peoria Ave.
Join the feisty men and women of STICKS and make:Tulsa to work on blankets to donate to Project Linus. Be part of a 10,000-blanket donation to kids in Haiti - that's some huge warmth, right there. Be sure to bring your own needles, hooks and/or sewing supplies.

Laura Ingalls Wilder Birthday Party
When: 2-3:30pm
Where: Owasso Library, 103 W. Broadway
Guess whose birthday it is: Laura Ingalls Wilder! Read her stories, make pioneer crafts and learn about pioneer life for the original pioneer woman. Feel free to come in costume - dress your pioneer best. For kids age 5-12.

Winter Encampment with Percy Jackson
When: 2-4pm
Where: Helmerich Library, 5131 E. 91st Street
It's a Percy party, kids! Party with Greek demigods and goddesses, play an oracle game and design chariots and shields, along with Grecian pottery. Don't miss the swordplay exhibition. For everyone aged 10 and older.

OSU Women's Basketball
When: 2pm
Where: Gallagher-Iba Arena, Stillwater
It's bedlam, baby. Watch the Cowgirls take on the lady Sooners.

Kid Flix @ Gilcrease
When: 2:30-4:30pm
Where: Gilcrease Museum, 1400 Gilcrease Museum Road
Narrated by a cowboy kid, Jeff McComas, pint-sized movie mavens visit a Wyoming rodeo, learn about bronco busters, trick ropers and riders and visit a 7-year-old cowboy and his pony, Mabel. The documentary is rated G.

OU Men's Basketball
When: 3pm
Where: Norman
Watch the Sooners take on Texas.

Underground Horror Fest
When: 3pm
Where: Rose Bowl, 7419 E. 11th Street
Ever been to a one-day mini convention with the best in live bands, vendors, artists, writers, actors, filmmakers and a killer afterparty? Now's your chance. Tickets to the whole shebang are $7.

Oklahoma Kids' Wrestling

When: 4pm Friday; 9am Saturday

Where: Expo Square Pavilion, 1701 S. Louisville Ave.

If it's not football going on here in Oklahoma, it's wrestling. The Oklahoma Kids Wrestling Association will host the state championships for the 31st time this weekend. Come see how great wrestlers are made. Tickets are $7 for adults, $3 for kids.

Tulsa Boat, Sport & Travel Show

When: 12pm-10pm Friday; 10am-10pm Saturday; 11am-6pm Sunday

Where: Expo Square, QuikTrip Center, 4145 E. 21st Street

Think you can handle more than 460,000 square feet of all make and manner of boats, water and snow skiing goodies and info on camping resorts and lodges from just about everywhere? Then don't miss this annual show of anything and everything that's worth your money in the world of water sports and travel. Tickets are $10; kids under 12 get in free.

Tulsa 2010 Heart Ball
When: 6:30pm
Where: Expo Square Central Park Hall, 4145 E. 21st Street
Feeling donning your cowboy boots and fighting heart disease at the same time? This is your weekend, pardner. Tickets are pricey at $225, but as anyone who lives with heart disease knows, it's all for a good cause.

Corey Smith

When: Doors at 7pm, show at 8pm

Where: Cain's Ballroom, 423 N. Main Street

Sam Thacker opens. Tickets are $15 in advance, $19 the day of.

Joan Rivers

When: 7pm

Where: Osage Event Center, 951 W. 36th Street North

For all fans of brash comedy and cosmetic surgery (you know who you are). Tickets are $25.

From the Tulsa Sound to the British Invasion

When: Friday, 7pm; Saturday, 7pm

Where: Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame, with Tulsa Symphony

Author and Oklahoma music expert John Wooley hosts this pair of concerts, complete with dinner and beverages. Tickets to the Friday concert at $85; Sunday, $25.

Arenacross
When: 7:30pm on Saturday, 10am Sunday
Where: BOK Center, 200 N. Denver Ave.
Watch as professionals and amateurs alike take to the dirt tracks. Tickets start at $17.

Comedy Improv Weekend

When: Friday, 8pm

Where: Henthorne, 4825 S. Quaker Ave.

What happens at Adult and Teen Laughing Matter Improv show, stays at Adult and Teen Laughing Matter Improv show. Tickets are $5.

Bus Stop

When: Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 8pm

Where: Broken Arrow Community Playhouse, 1800 S. Main in Broken Arrow

Remember the old Marilyn Monroe flick, Bus Stop? Yeah. It's like that. It is, by the way, one of my most favorite plays ever. Tickets are $13 for adults, $10 for seniors, $9 for students and $6 for kids 12 and under.

TwoLips Burlesk

When: 9pm Friday; 9pm Saturday

Where: Nightingale Theater, 1416 E. Fourth Street

Tulsa can always count of the folks at the Nightingale for true-blue burlesque, vaudeville and cabaret, and this weekend is no different thanks to a new performance troupe in town. Featuring the talents of Poppy Pie, Honey Du Jour, Sinna' Bunnz, Cookie WhitNutz (!) and Tangy Tart, this show is sure to please. Tickets are $10.

Sunday, Feb. 7

Tasha's Pick: It's Super Bowl Time, Baby.

When: Kickoff at 6:25pm

Where: Wherever you bring the party

There are lots of places in the Tulsa area to watch the game and have a great time, but here are my picks: First, the party at Enso, the newest bar downtown at First and Detroit. After all, it'd be nice to watch the game without having to squint through the smoke, right? Or, head to Joe Momma's at 112 S. Elgin, because the biggest game of the year deserves nothing less than the biggest big screen in town. If you need a variety of brewskies to keep you happy for the duration of the game, look no further than McNellie's Public House at First and Archer.

RK Show Inc. Gun & Knife Show

When: 9am-5pm Saturday; 9am-4pm Sunday

Where: Expo Square, Exchange Center, 4145 E. 21st Street

Always remember this motto, folks: The word GUN is just one letter away from the word FUN (when enjoyed responsibly, of course). Tickets are $10 for adults, $4 for kids aged 6-12 and free for spawn under 6.

Half-Price Weekends at Tulsa Zoo

When: 9am-5pm Saturday and Sunday

Where: Tulsa Zoo, 6421 E. 36th Street North

Beat cabin fever this winter with Tulsa Zoo's half-price weekends.

Arenacross

When: 7:30pm on Saturday, 10am Sunday

Where: BOK Center, 200 N. Denver Ave.

Watch as professionals and amateurs alike take to the dirt tracks. Tickets start at $17.

Super Shark Sundays

When: 10am-6pm

Where Oklahoma Aquarium, 300 Aquarium Drive in Jenks

Hey, kids - here's your opportunity to test your shark smarts and to score shark teeth souvineers and other prizes, including a family membership. Be sure to say hi to the Shark Man while you're there. Admission is $13.95 for adults, $9.95 for kids 3-12 and free for kids 2 and under.

Safari's Mardi Gras Celebration

When: 12-5pm every Saturday and Sunday during February

Where: Safari's Animal Sanctuary, 26881 E. 58th Street

Wear your Mardi Gras beads to show your love of the animals and get into Safari's for half price.

Tulsa Boat, Sport & Travel Show

When: 12pm-10pm Friday; 10am-10pm Saturday; 11am-6pm Sunday

Where: Expo Square, QuikTrip Center, 4145 E. 21st Street

Bass Pro Boat Show

When: 1pm Saturday; 1pm Sunday

Where: 101 Bass Pro Drive in Broken Arrow

Get all the boat deals in the Tracker Marine Boat Showroom at Bass Pro during its free boat show this weekend. Catch free educational seminars on topics from finding fish with electronics to local fishing tips, starting at 1pm Saturday and Sunday.

Movies

Dear John

When: Opens Friday

From Yahoo! Movies: A soldier home on leave falls for a conservative college girl, but when he re-enlists, time and distance take a toll on the young lovers. Not that I would know anything about this. Rated PG-13.

From Paris With Love

When: Opens Friday

From Yahoo! Movies: John Travolta (hubba hubba) stars as a wisecracking, fast-shooting, high-ranking (be-goateed) U.S. agent who is sent to France to stop a terrorist attack. Rated R.

What are YOU doing this weekend?

Television photo from dailyinvention on Flickr.

Where to Eat in Tulsa for Valentine's Day 2010

tashadoestulsa@gmail.com (Tasha) — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 20:00:00 +0000

Brian and Shae over at Tulsa Food Blog and we here at Tasha Does Tulsa have collaborated to bring you a list of the best of the best Tulsa restaurants to call for a reservation for Valentine's Day weekend, complete with reviews, recommendations on what to order and, of course, the contact information you need to make your reservations.

Since Valentine's Day is on a Sunday this year, Tulsans will have to hit some of these restaurants a day or two early. Be sure to check hours and to make reservations to be sure you don't end up all dressed up with no where to eat.

Here's to your own Lady in the Tramp spaghetti-eating scene-in-the-making.

Stonehorse Cafe
V-Day Hours: Saturday, 11am-11pm
Where: 1748 Utica Square
Phone: (918) 712-7470
Pricing (out of five $, with five being priciest): $$$
What to Order: The Bleu Salad; Pizza Margherita; Anything made with Stonehorse's housemade sausage; Bread pudding (order it with dinner, though, because it's made to-order, individually)
TFB: Wonderful wine list and all their food is made from scratch: from sauces, pastas to ice cream. The meat is always of utmost quality and seafood is very fresh. Located in Utica Square, so perfect for a nice walk before or after dinner.
TDT: It's easy to get cozy at Stonehorse. It's even easier to get an unforgettable dinner at this Utica Square cafe - everything, and I mean everything, on the menu is outstanding.

The Brasserie
V-Day hours: 1-am-9pm; open for brunch
Where: 3509 S. Peoria Avenue
Phone: (918) 779-7070
Pricing: $$$
What to Order: Alsatian tarte flambe; steak tartare; brioche French toast; steak frites
TFB: Very classy French restaurant. The food is prepared with great attention to detail and atmosphere is superb. Very top-notch wine list.
TDT: The French know love, sure, but perhaps even better, to know food. Get French-inspired cuisine by one of Tulsa's top (and hottest) chefs in a chic, old-world atmosphere.

In the Raw
V-Day Hours: 5pm-12am Saturday; Open at 5pm Sunday
Where: 3321 S. Peoria Avenue on Brookside; 6151 S. Sheridan on the Hill
Phone: Brookside, (918) 744-1300; On the Hill, (918) 524-0063
Pricing: $$$
What to Order: Volcano Roll, Spider Roll, Macadamia nut halibut
TFB: Oklahoma company that offers an amazing sushi experience. Great sushi but a little pricey. South location is located on a hill with a great view.
TDT: There's a reason this swanky sushi joint is always packed. It's got the food and the atmosphere to make your V-Day something to remember.

Palace Cafe
V-Day Hours: 5-10pm Saturday; Sunday brunch, 9am-2pm
Where: 1301 E. 15th Street
Phone: (918) 582-4321
Pricing: $$$
What to Order: Smoke Grill Salmon, Gourmet Lobster Corndogs, anything off the bento menus
TFB: Very private booth seating, perfect low lighting. Everything from gourmet lobster corndogs to daily catches and steaks. The chef here has a good outlook on food and is opposed to processed food.
TDT: Palace Cafe offers the most romantic dining atmosphere in Tulsa, hands down. The food, as scores of natives know, is some of the best in the region.

Caramel Dessert Bar
V-Day Hours: 10am-9pm
Where: 3410 S. Peoria Avenue
Phone: (918) 938-7977
Pricing: $$
What to Order: Shareable Caramel Cheesecake; Chocolate chip cookies or Dessert for Two, which includes a plate full of different desserts, gelatos, fruit and chocolate.
TFB: The chocolate chip cookies are to die for! This is the perfect place to come after you have a nice dinner and want something sweet. Dinner on Brookside? Make it a 2-step date night. Dinner...then Caramel!
TDT: Chef Doreen Durano and her wide selection of sweets brings a warm glow to Brookside's Center 1. Have a dazzling dessert for V-Day (the chocolate mousse cups are especially glitzy), but be sure to snag a few chocolate chip cookies for the road.

Lucky's
V-Day Hours: Saturday, 5-11pm; Sunday, 11am-3pm
Where: 1536 E. 15th Street
Phone: (918) 592-5825
Pricing: $$$
What to Order: Grilled Flatbread, Asian-Style Porkchop, Bacon-Wrapped Halibut, Lucky's Cheeseburger
TFB:One of our favorite restaurants in Tulsa, run by a husband/wife team of culinary geniuses. These two have brough an unmatched sense of style and beautiful, quality food that has kept us coming back time and time again.
TDT: Find the most innovative fine dining menu at Lucky's on Cherry Street. Be sure to have a glass of the many biodynamic wines available at the bar with dinner.

Sonoma Bistro & Wine Bar
V-Day hours: Saturday, 11am-11pm; Sunday, 11am-9pm
Where: 3523 S. Peoria Avenue
Phone: (918) 747-9463
Pricing: $$$
What to Order: BBQ Salmon Tamale, White Pizza, Tomato Bisque Soup
TFB: This is an awesome place to go for a light dinner and drinks. It is a very pleasant atmosphere with one of the best wine lists in Tulsa. The chef pays so much attention to detail and the food is phenomenal.
TDT: The wine list at Sonoma was built to be the best - and one of the largest - in town. Plus, the food could stand up to what's available in the real Sonoma County any day.

Tucci's
V-Day Hours: Opens at 5pm
Where: 1433 E. 15th Street
Phone: (918) 582-3456
Pricing: $$$
What to Order: Chicken Florentine Pizza, Pasta l'Arabiata
TFB: This is one of Tulsa's hidden treasures. The food is so fresh, and the pizza is to die for! I couldn't believe how fresh the ingredients on the pizza were. Great place for a lunch date and dinner reservation.
TDT: Talk about a moody atmosphere. If you chose Tucci's as your destination for V-Day Dinner 2010, you can bet that some serious romance will ensue.

Ti Amo
V-Day hours: Saturday, 5-10pm; Sunday, 11am-9pm
Where: 219 S. Cheyenne Avenue downtown; 6024 S. Sheridan Avenue in south Tulsa
Phone: Downtown, (918) 592-5151; south Tulsa, (918) 499-1919
Pricing: $$
What to Order: Ravioli Fritti, Penne Toscana, Chicken Marsala
TFB: Wonder atmosphere...and very romantic. The live music really sets the tone for the evening. The food is standard Italian and is located in a beautiful location in downtown and also south Tulsa. We recommend the downtown location.
TDT: There's a reason I went to Ti Amo for dinner before my high school prom, and while the food is fabulous, the atmosphere is the epitome of le romance - especially at the cozy, underground downtown location.

Bodean Seafood Restaurant
V-Day hours: 5-10pm
Where: 3376 E. 51st Street
Phone: (918) 749-1407
Pricing: $$$$$
What to Order: Sesame-Crusted Gulf Yellowfin Tuna, Pecanwood-Grilled Costa Rican Mahi Mahi. If cooking at home, the Maine lobsters are so fresh and make a perfect meal...any of the seafood at Bodean's Market is top-notch.
TFB: Two times a day seafood is flown in from the coast. This is the most upscale restaurant in Tulsa. Beautiful atmosphere. This is a great place for a very special occasion and is sure to impress the one you love!! Voted by TIME magazine as one of the top restaurants in the nation.
TDT: THE freshest seafood in town, available as it's flown in twice daily to family-owned Bodean's. If you'd rather dine at home, check out Bodean's fish market, facing 51st Street.

Garlic Rose
V-Day hours: Saturday, 11am-2:30pm and 5-10pm; Sunday, open at 5pm
Where: 3509 S. Peoria Avenue on Brookside; 9904 Riverside Parkway on the River
Phone: Brookside, (918) 392-5550; Riverside, (918) 746-4900
Pricing: $$$
What to Order: Baked Brie, Complementary bread with roasted garlic, Canneloni
TFB: The food is superb and has a fantastic presentation. Make sure to park around back and walk through the courtyard. Going to this restaurant gave me an out-of-Tulsa, out-of-country experience. We like to call ahead and ask for a spot by the fireplace. We recommend the Brookside location; however, the Riverside location is very nice and if not too cold, a walk around the river's edge is quite romantic. There is actually a bench swing for two by the river.
TDT: Garlic Rose isn't a Tulsa tradition by accident. No one can go wrong by choosing Garlic Rose for their dining destination this Valentine's Day.

McGill's
V-Day Hours: Midtown, 4:30-10pm; south Tulsa, 4-9pm, McGill's on 19, Friday and Saturday, 5-11pm
Where: 1560 S. 21st Street in Midtown; 6058 S. Yale Avenue in south Tulsa; at Hard Rock Casino & Hotel in Catoosa
Phone: Midtown, (918) 742-8080; south Tulsa, (918) 388-8080; McGill's on 19 (Hard Rock), (918) 384-7500
Pricing: $$$$
What to Order: Pasta Lobster, Coconut Beer Shrimp, Crab Cakes and, of course, the Filet
TFB: Very traditional, reminds me of a clubhouse that you would find at a country club. The wait staff is very attentive and professional, taking care of every need. Intimate setting with a warm, inviting feel. Great place to get a steak.
TDT: McGill's is the plate to be for those of you who equate V-Day with a glorious steak dinner. If you're feeling really fancy, check out McGill's on 19 at Hard Rock Casino in Catoosa.

KEO
V-Day Hours: Friday and Saturday, 11am-11pm
Where: 3524 S. Peoria Avenue
Phone: (918) 794-8200
Pricing: $$
What to Order: Spring Rolls, KEO Sampler, Thai Green Curry, Pad Thai, Banana Won-Ton with Vanilla Bean Gelato, Anything from the sake menu
TFB: Very modern, sophisticated restaurant with a very classy, open feel. the two of the main walls are glass, so you are able to people-watch from inside the restaurant. The owners are fabulous. Chef Zahidah Hyman grew up in Asia and brought back many of her family's recipes to Tulsa. She and her husband Bill Hyman make a great team. The food is very unique and full of flavor...great place for cocktails or a nice date.
TDT: KEO is home to some of the most artful and innovative dishes in Tulsa, not to mention the most attention to authentic Asian culinary traditions. If a swanky atmosphere is a must this V-Day, KEO is your spot.

Shogun Japanese Steakhouse
V-Day Hours: Friday and Saturday, 5-10pm; Sunday, 5-9pm
Where: 6808 S. Memorial Drive, No. 224
Phone: (918) 254-2134
Pricing: $$$
What to Order: Hibachi Sesame Chicken, Shogun Special
TFB: At Shogun, it's all about the entertainment. Chefs cook the food on a hibachi grill right in front of you and your party. All chefs have gone through extensive training in order to make this a fun evening for you...the food is awesome...a lot of food! Grab a drink at the bar while waiting for your reservation.
TDT: Some couples like food served to them. Others prefer their food tossed at them, and only after it's been sliced, diced and cooked right in front of them. For those among the latter, there's Shogun this Valentine's Day.

The Chalkboard
V-Day Hours: Dinner on Saturday, 5-10:30pm and Sunday, 5-9pm; Brunch on Saturday and Sunday, 11am-2:30pm
Where: 1324 S. Main Street
Phone: (918) 582-1964
Pricing: $$$
What to Order: Eggs Benedict, Mimosas, Atlantic Salmon, Chicken Kiev, Stuffed French Toast
TFB: This place as some of the best brunch in Tulsa. It is located in the beautiful Ambassador Downtown. The European style goes right along with the food and creates a wonder place to spend the evening.
TDT: The Chalkboard is a bonafide Tulsa tradition, especially when it comes to brunch. The lunch is good and dinner is great, but brunch is legendary. It tastes even better after a night's stay in the Hotel Ambassador, which houses this celebrated cafe.

Tulsa Blogger Meetup: Let's Sweeten This Deal.

tashadoestulsa@gmail.com (Tasha) — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 03:18:00 +0000

Almost 40 of my fellow Tulsa-area bloggers have agreed to show up at Joe Momma's this Thursday evening for the first Tulsa blogger meetup in many a moon.

First, that'd be a pretty darned good turnout for a group of people typecast as the behind-the-scenes, reclusive sort. Second, I bet you all didn't know there were 40 bloggers in the Tulsa area at all.

Well, there are. Actually, there are many more. But more about that later.

More than a few of you bloggy bloggersons have expressed reservations about showing up at this little shindig. Some of you are shy. Some feel nervous about sitting across the table from the likes of Brett and Kate McKay of The Art of Manliness or Michael Champlin of Tulsa Project or Blake Ewing, the devious mind behind Joe Momma's and, soon, more (and yes, he blogs).

Maybe a few games and prizes will act like an ultimate margarita - you know, the kind with the 2-cent garter around the glass, with extra salt on the rim - and loosen up those of you on the fence about joining us.

Prizes, Baby. Prizes.

One prize will be a little somethin'-somethin' from The Gadget Company. Only the manliest of men (and women - hey, we have manly skills, too) will be eligible for this prize. We may or may not measure this manliness with a mini thumb-wrestling tourney. Come warmed up and ready to play.

Another prize will be a gift certificate to Shoe Gypsy. This prize will go to the individual demonstrating the most need for such a prize (read: the ugliest shoes in the house). If anyone comes in the shoes that I wear every day and wins, I will cry. And that's okay, but only because it will make for a good blog post.

Last but not least will be the prize of free food from Joe Momma's, home of my love, the object of my desire, the bacon cheeseburger pizza. In pickles and mustard on my pizza I trust.

I can't tell you about the contest in which you'll have to participate for a chance to win some free Momma yums, though. It's a secret. If you want to know about this contest, you're just going to have to come to the meetup.

I can tell you, though, to have your camera phones (or, if you're ghetto like me, your point-and-shoot, laptop and cable) hot and ready.

If you're a Tulsa-area business and you'd like to throw another prize on top of the pile, e-mail me.

If you're a Tulsa blogger, you can still e-mail me. I love e-mail. Especially e-mail from bloggers who meet me downtown on a chilly Thursday night to eat pizza, drink beer and thumb wrestle.

See you there.

Extreme Makeover in Tulsa: No, Really. It's XTREME.

tashadoestulsa@gmail.com (Tasha) — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 02:25:00 +0000

In case you managed to not turn on the TV or radio during Ice Storm 2010, you might have missed that Tulsa is playing host to the crew of ABC's Extreme Makeover: Home Edition. Thanks to the show and its local partners, including Simmons Homes of Owasso, the Starkweather family of 1124 S. Indianapolis Ave. in Tulsa, Oklahoma, will soon have a new place to call home.

The door knock came Thursday morning. The Starkweathers were, of course and rather by design, surprised. I mean, how often do people show up at our front door to inform us that they are not only going to demolish our house, but they're also building a brand-new one that will better accommodate the special needs of your individual family?

It's magical, that door knock. Lives change within a matter of seconds.

As of this morning, the Extreme team, made up largely of local volunteers (you guys rock!), was painting the new home's interior, installing kitchen cabinetry and preparing to pour a new driveway.

As in, since late last week and in spite of the snow and ice that rained from the skies Thursday and Friday, this crew has demolished and rebuilt this house. An entire home. That I can't wrap my mind around this feat of human endurance and compassion doesn't change that it happened.

Volunteers will continue to work through Wednesday, when the big truck will be moved and the completed home will be unveiled to the Starkweather family. The length of time it will have taken to complete the build should come in at just under 100 hours. Amazing.

The Starkweather family was nominated for the show by Make-A-Wish Foundation of Oklahoma. At five weeks old, the youngest member of the Starkweather family, Ethan, now 9, was diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder that affects his muscle tone. Plus, he feels constant hunger. This precious young man requires his parents' constant, 24-hour care.

The care of healthy children is challenging enough. It's easy to understand why the house fell into disrepair.

Ethan is a Make-A-Wish ambassador these days. Thanks to MAWFO, he went to Disney World last year. Now he helps to raise money to grant the wishes of other children.

Oh, my heart. Those Make-A-Wish children, they are dream makers.

Demolition of the Starkweather home began over the weekend, ice-encrusted though it was. A mere two days from now, on Feb. 3, Ethan and his family will see their new home for the first time.

The hour-long episode of Extreme Makeover starring the Starkweather family will air in early March.

How You Can Help

Even if you can't be around to help build the house, you can still be part of the magic. The creators of Extreme Makeover are hosting a community-wide food drive to benefit the Community Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma. The drive will also benefit Standing in the Gap, an Owasso-based food pantry.

Simply bring non-perishable food items - it matters not how much, because when there's a 40-percent increase in the number of people in Eastern Oklahoma in need of food assistance, every little bit counts - to the Extreme Makeover staging area at the Expo Square Pavilion, 17th and Louisville. The drop-off is open 7am to 8pm. That leaves plenty of time before and after work to swing by the fairgrounds to make a donation.

If the Pavilion is still out of your way, food donations for this program are accepted at all Tulsa, Bartlesville and Owasso Starbucks locations. And we all know how practically everyone is within sniffing distance of a Starbucks.

Extreme Makeover: Home Edition in Tulsa Blogs

Want to know more than you can find in the papers and on TV about how the build is going? Read on.

In Case You Didn't Know, by @ajsouthern
How it Was, by @ajsouthern
Excitement in My World, by @tulsadetails
Extreme, Hunkered Down and Ready, by @franbevel
Extremes in Tulsa, by Laurel at Thoughts from a Route 66 Business Owner

So. Will you be watching on Feb. 3 for the revealing of the new Starkweather home?
,
Photos by Walt Beazley.

Sledding Through Ice Storm 2010

tashadoestulsa@gmail.com (Tasha) — Sat, 30 Jan 2010 21:40:00 +0000

One hill. One sled. One blogger. The battle lines have been drawn here in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Leave your links to your Ice Storm 2010 photos and videos in the comments. Please? I wanna see.

The Best Sledding Spots in Tulsa

tashadoestulsa@gmail.com (Tasha) — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 19:53:00 +0000

As I'm wont to do on a snowy day in Tulsa, I hopped on Twitter and Facebook to see where the best sledding spots are in Green Country.

Growing up along Highway 97 between Sand Springs and Sapulpa, I was never at a loss for good sledding. The hills of Sand Springs and Berryhill are a kid's wildest dream come true after a few inches of snow. What I don't know, though, is where the best hills in Tulsa proper are hiding.

Here are a few answers from the Facebook- and Twitter-verse:

I live in Turner Park, and I've been hoping for a chance to sled over at Rogers High.... They have a field that is like a huge bowl!

Harwelden is normally a winner and there's a great two-sided hill on the back/north side of Cherry Hills at 36th between Lakewood and Joplin.

Check with McBirney Mansion. They have a great hill out back, and I think they sometimes do sledding there.

Ba on sixty first just east of bass pro shop [Not Tulsa proper, but close enough]

Grab your sled. It's time to head to the hills at the Bass Pro Shop in BA [Hey, if everybody else is jumping off a bridge, shouldn't you at least seriously consider it?]

Isn't this kind of like fishing holes? You don't really want to give the best spots away? P.S. It doesn't get much better than Chandler Park...really.

I imagine any city park/potential retention pond would be a great place to go sledding, too.

Got your own secret sledding spot? Go ahead, spill the beans and share the location in the comments. If I can manage to compile a good number of locations, I'll pull my partner in crime away from his studies to make a map for us.

I love a man who can make a map. Literally.

What to Do in Tulsa This Weekend, Ice Storm 2010 Edition

tashadoestulsa@gmail.com (Tasha) — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 02:55:00 +0000

My friend-in-blogging Carrisa over at and so she blogs did my job for me this week. Here's what she came up with for the rundown this weekend.

Carrisa, I owe you a steak.

In case you're not in Tulsa and you have no idea what in the world this could mean, we're under attack on this Thursday night by yet another severe ice storm. The freezing rain that has been falling for the past several hours has made roads treacherous. Our trees are cracking, some of our power lines are snapping and we're all having 'Nam-like flashbacks to the 2007 ice storm that plunged the people of this city into darkness and cold for as long as two weeks.

Travel is, at best, discouraged. Therefore, I don't exactly feel comfortable advocating that everyone drive all over the place trying to find stuff to do this weekend. Instead, it might be best to stay in, put your feet up and roast something dead or sugary (or both?) in the fireplace. You know, get back to your roots. And play some Yahtzee. It'll be fun.

I know at least a few Tulsa nonprofit organizations had big fundraisers scheduled for this weekend. Plus, there's the huge Tulsa Home & Garden Show happening at Expo Square Friday, Saturday and Sunday. If you drive something like this, be my guest to take a chance and try to make it out to these events.

The nonprofits that had events planned this weekend won't be the only ones disappointed. Ice storms really pack a punch for our small businesses here in town, too. If the roads are passable and you won't be putting yourself or someone else in harm's way by venturing out a bit, head for your nearest locally-owned eat spot and chow down. That's a good plan anytime, actually, whether the roads are icy or not.

(Here's the part where I digress. But, hey, it's good stuff, and you're looking for something to do anyway.)

You might not think so, but your choice to spend your dollars with local purveyors really, really makes a difference. Let me say that again: It matters in very big, very cool ways when you choose to spend your money with local business owners. Here's how:

When Tulsans spend less money inside the city, the general fund [at the City of Tulsa] runs low. The effects of a struggling national and state economy have combined with more internet buying and more spending options popping up in the burbs to hit Tulsa's sales tax revenue pretty hard. Yep. It's true. It's not something many of us think about until we read the headlines announcing layoffs of city employees, most notably our police officers and fire fighters.

My hope for us all is that we use this crisis as an opportunity to reevaluate our spending habits and that we'll work together to make a better Tulsa. By shopping inside the city limits, you ensure that a portion of your sales tax dollars go to Tulsa's general fund. This doesn't happen when you buy online or in the cities that surround Tulsa. If you choose to shop with local businesses, you do the city even better. When you spend with the chains, their profit gets sent elsewhere, to the benefit of a competing city's economy. Shopping locally, however, means that more of your money stays in town. Local business owners take those dollars, turn around and spend them in Tulsa. It improves our local economy and sends more sales tax revenue to City Hall. Want to save the jobs of those who keep us safe? It's on the citizens to keep this from happening again in the future.

Boom. That was Blake Ewing, owner of Joe Momma's, the pizza joint in the Blue Dome District downtown, in his latest e-mail newsletter. Why in all of the radio and TV and print coverage of this mess happening at City Hall I hadn't heard the issues laid out this way, I don't know.

Colleen McCarty over at Independent Cause, the new outgrowth of the monthly online magazine Tulsa Project, issued her own call to action in a blog post earlier this week:

Under the Mooch’s closing signifies more than just the loss of an amazing local business. To me it signifies our need to fight for our local culture. The malls are closing in, and its getting harder and harder to find local businesses that deliver good customer service and competitive inventory. The one thing we can do to support our town, and develop our own identity is to think local first. When going out to eat (Elote, Joe Momma’s, Tucci’s, Kilkenny’s), when going to a movie (Circle Cinema), when going shopping (Ida Red, Dwelling Spaces, Kiddlestix, Shoe Gypsy), think…is there a local business that will cater to my needs? If there is, by all means go there first over a big box store. I know I am preaching to the choir to some extent, but Under the Mooch is our loss too. If we fail to support our local businesses, they will close, plain and simple. Don’t take them for granted.

How's that for food for thought on an icy winter night? Feel free to weigh in with your own take on these issues in the comments.

Again, if you have serious doubts about your ice driving skillz (or, if you're one of those people who have absolutely no doubts whatsoever about how you drive in icy weather - you and your foolhardiness are actually more dangerous to yourself and others than the inexperienced ice driver, by the way), it's best to stay at home.

Look at it this way: By staying at home, you're being as local as you can possibly be. I mean, it's pretty darned local if you don't even leave your house, right? Heh. Heh heh.

*chirp chirp*

Stay safe and warm, everybody.

What to Have on Hand During an Oklahoma Ice Storm

tashadoestulsa@gmail.com (Tasha) — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 22:14:00 +0000

You can't say the word "ice" within earshot of Oklahoma without scaring the living daylights out of us. Blistering heat we can handle. Straight-line winds, no problem. Tornadoes are a spectator sport around here. We whine when it snows but for the most part, we can take it.

As for ice, hell no, we won't go.

In making my own preparations for the impending ice storm, forecast to be worse than our Christmas Eve 2009 blizzard and comparable to the legendary Ice Storm of 2007, I did a quick search for a checklist of items I should have around the house, just to make sure I don't forget something small but vital.

Here's a list from FEMA. Here's one from the National Weather Service (scroll, baby, scroll). Here's a PDF from the Red Cross. Here's more from the Ice Storm 2007 site at TulsaWorld.com.

Basically, it's all about water, firewood, batteries, candles and non-perishable food. Any Oklahoman who survived the 2007 storm can tick these winter storm safety items off from memory.

But, what about the things we didn't know we'd need until we needed them? Here are a few I had to do without.

Plenty of clean clothes. When our power went out not long into the storm three years ago, our house lost heat more quickly than I like to recall. Trouble was, I hadn't done laundry. I didn't have much that was clean to put on to keep the chill away. That I was pregnant and didn't have much that fit in the first place didn't help matters. Word to the wise: If you didn't finish your laundry over the weekend, finish it tonight and tomorrow. Your fancy laundering machines may not have a power source come Thursday night after ice has been raining down on our power lines for a few hours.

Toilet paper. Okay? Okay.

Cornstarch. Think of it as dry cleaning for your hair. After several days without hot water and the electricity needed to see yourself in a mirror, let alone to power your hair styling appliances, your hair might resemble an oil slick or worse. That's no good if you're one of the folks who can't miss work, no matter how bad it gets outside. A little sprinkle on the oily parts and a thorough brush-through will do you good. Ladies, if you're smart and you've been growing out your hair since the Ice Storm of 2007, you can sport a ponytail like the rest of us. Grab some hair ties while you're out and about stocking up.

Stuff to keep your mind busy. When the power's out, there's not much to do - not anything that we're overly used to doing, anyway (except for one certain thing - see below). Idea: Hit your local library branch tonight or tomorrow and stock up on books for you, books for the kids, books for everybody. Don't forget candles to read by and matches to light them. Another idea: Spring for a few of those silly-looking board and card games you've been curious about. They might be worth their weight in gold come Friday afternoon.

Contraceptives. If I'd had some, it would have been a little late in coming - I was six months pregnant with my son in Dec. 2007. But, did anyone else notice how many babies there were at the Tulsa State Fair in September/October 2008? I'm just sayin'.

Now, think. What did you wish you'd had during the Christmas Eve 2009 blizzard, or the 2007 ice storm?

August: Osage County Arrives in Tulsa

tashadoestulsa@gmail.com (Tasha) — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 21:08:00 +0000

Urban Tulsa Weekly arts writer Holly Wall put together a set of stories on the debut of native Tulsan Tracy Letts' August: Osage County for the Jan. 21 edition and let me tell you, it has me all excited in a my-family-is-dysfunctional-too! sort of way.

August: Osage County is the story of the Westons, a large extended family that comes together at their rural Oklahoma homestead when the alcoholic patriarch disappears. Forced to confront unspoken truths and astonishing secrets, the family must also contend with matriarch Violet, a pill-popping, deeply unsettled woman at the center of this storm.

From Wall's Family Is Where the Drama Is: August: Osage County debuts close-to-home family tale:

"'My wife takes pills and I drink.'"

It sounds like a match made in heaven, doesn't it? Those words are the opening lines of Tracy Letts' acclaimed August: Osage County.

Anticipation is bubbling over for the return of the native, so to speak. Letts brings his epic (three-and-a-half hours and counting), award-winning (a Tony, a Pulitzer, an Outer Critics' Circle, a New York Drama Critics' Circle and two Drama Desks) masterpiece to Tulsa, only 50 miles from Pawhuska, the town on which it is based...

Letts' portrait of a dysfuntional, Midwestern American family took tawdry New York City by storm as much for Letts' storytelling as for his trenchant commentary on the contemporary red state of affairs.

Perhaps that's what we're most looking forward to: We don't just want to see Letts' brilliant work come to life on stage (and later, on screen); we want to see ourselves as we are, whether we are ready for it or not. Here it comes.

What's more exciting about this play is how it carries those favorite words, as evidenced by our obsession with reality television and the memoir literary form, of the American people: "Based on a true story."

See, the play is based on Letts' own family life. As you probably already know, Tracy wasn't the only one to bring fame to the Letts name - his mother, Billie, is the author of several novels, perhaps most notably Where the Heart Is, and his father was actor Dennis Letts, the first to play the patriarch in August: Osage County on Broadway. The play draws heavily from Billie's family and the events that took place within it when Tracy was just old enough to remember.

If you want to know more about the play, you really must pick up the UTW and open to page 16. Holly's not known as the preeminent arts writer in Tulsa for nothin'.

The curtain goes up on August: Osage County for the first time tonight at 7pm. The show continues through Jan. 31. Please keep in mind that this play is intended for mature audiences only. But, trust me, you won't find a better excuse to hire a sitter. Tickets are $20-55 - really, a pittance to pay for the entertainment of your life.

If the forecast for Ice Storm 2010 is true and you're seriously weighing your safety against your chance to see this play live on stage, don't fret. Call (918) 596-7109 to swap your tickets for one of next week's showings. Ain't no thing.

If for some reason that surely involves peril of life or limb you don't get to a showing of August: Osage County before the curtains fall at the end of this month, sit tight. A film adaptation of the play is on the way to the silver screen.

Things to Do With the Kids in Tulsa This Week

tashadoestulsa@gmail.com (Tasha) — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 02:50:00 +0000

Looking for something to do with the kids this week? Get out your calendars and get ready to take notes, because I have a few ideas.

Monday: Elmo Tickets/Dinner Out
When: 10am
Where: BOK Center/Brewburger Tulsa, 6577 E. 71st Street
In case you somehow haven't heard, Elmo is coming to town. He'll be here March 25-28, and Monday morning at 10am is when tickets go on sale. Procure them early. Then, take the kids out for dinner. Brewburger, an indie south Tulsa burger joint that offers everything from your classic burger to a fish burger pattied fresh by Bodean's, offers kids' dinners for $1 on Monday nights. You'll be smiling - and wiping delicious burger juice from your chin - all the way to the bank.

Tuesday: Two for Tuesdays, Science Under the Stars
When: 6:30pm
Where: Oklahoma Aquarium, 300 Aquarium Drive in Jenks
Get two tickets to the Oklahoma Aquarium for the price of one on Tuesdays, also the night the Aquarium stays open late, now through Feb. 23. Stick around until 6:30 for Science Under the Stars. The first program is What Bugs You?, or a look into what our world would be like without insects.

Wednesday: Circus iPhone Photography Show
Where: Circle Cinema Gallery, 10 S. Lewis Ave.
No, the circus isn't in town, but these photos, amazingly shot with an iPhone camera, are even better than the real thing. Don't forget to ask your kids lots of questions about what they think is going on in the photos, as well as how they think they were shot. You might just find out that your kids are smarter than you think. All photos by Tulsa photographer Scott Raffe.

Thursday: Tales at Twilight and Richter and Uzar Duo
When: 6:30pm; 7pm
Where: Hardesty Regional Library, 8316 E. 93rd Street
Squeeze a story time in at 6:30 before heading over to Connor's Cove (adjacent to Hardesty) for a 7pm concert. Hailed as one of the finest guitarists and composers of the 21st century, Richter and his collaborator, Uzar, will perform a variety of music, from classical to contemporary.

Friday: Tulsa Oilers Jersey Night
When: 7:35pm
Where: BOK Center, 200 N. Denver Ave.
Not only do kids get in free to the Oilers game Friday night, but the first 500 munchkins who make it through the door get free Oilers jerseys, too. Click here or on the image above to get the free ticket and, of course, plan to get there early.

To stay plugged in to everything going on in Tulsa that'd be of interest to your kids (or to you as the person who gets to parent those kids), check out Ttownmoms.com.

2010 Oklahoma Blog Awards. And word noms.

tashadoestulsa@gmail.com (Tasha) — Sun, 24 Jan 2010 21:00:00 +0000

In finally sitting down to make my nominations for the 2010 Oklahoma Blog Awards, I decided that I'd like to share about a few of the blogs that have caught my attention.

First, a bit about the Oklahoma Blog Awards. I've said it before and I'll say it again: I love OBA season. It's the time of year when I get to reflect on the state of blogging on a number of levels - nationally, locally, personally. Plus, I always end up adding a slew of new blogs to my reader, and I usually make a few new friends, too.

And, oh, the ideas - Oklahoma bloggers are one creative group, let me tell you. I get tons of ideas for my own blog from poring over their words, photos and audio. For anyone who likes to write, take photos and/or talk into a microphone, Oklahoma blogs are breeding grounds for inspiration.

And now for the fabulous.

Carless in Tulsa. What are the challenges and obstacles to living life without the car in Tulsa? What are the benefits? Read this blog and join in on the journey as a young couple spends a month - a winter month, no less - carless in Tulsa.

Tulsa Gal's Blog. For a hearty helping of Tulsa stories and historical photos, this blog is the place to be.

Miss Wisabus. Excellent writing. It's so good that I read to the end of her latest post (on the topic of her recent dual with the stomach virus that's been going around) and wanted to know where I could go to learn even more about her fever and body aches. That takes talent, people.

Knitting in the Wild - Life on Clear Creek. Country living. Family. Life. Knitting. And chocolate. I ask you, what more in this world is there? Well, maybe monster trucks, but I can overlook monster trucks from time to time myself.

are you there, God? it's me, generation x. Written by the coordinator of the 2010 Oklahoma Blog Awards herself, Jennifer James (what is it with the best of PR professionals in Oklahoma and alliterative names? Jennifer James, Ryan Rex, Lindsay Laird, Kari Culp...), this blog isn't exactly new on the scene, but its content is always fresh and interesting. And gen-seXy.

Digibutter. Because of this post. I couldn't relate more.

Microbloggers. This is a new category in the Oklahoma Blog Awards this year, and I'm so glad. I'm a bonafide Twitter addict. As many people as I follow to get a good feel of not just what's going on in Tulsa but also what people are saying about it, I don't get to read every tweet, every day. There are, however, a few local Twitter users with whom I make a point to check in daily. They are talkradiojoe (KRMG morning show host Joe Kelley), andreamyers (Andrea Myers), theredneckdiva (Kristin in Miami - hey, it's close enough to Tulsa) thepioneerwoman (duh, it's Ree Drummond) and the shark at OKAquarium. Yes, a shark. Just trust me on this one and hit the follow button.

While we're on the subject of blogging, I'd like to reiterate that the Tulsa-area bloggers are getting together for some beer, pizza, prizes and chitchat Thursday, Feb. 4 at 7pm at Joe Momma's downtown. If you're going (and I hope you are), be sure to grab one of these badges to display on your blog to help spread the word. Okay? Okay. See you there.

The open nominations period for the Oklahoma Blog Awards ends Feb. 2, so if you're an Oklahoma blogger, get your votes in now. Then high-five yourself in the mirror but not too hard because, duh, who needs that?

The Dentist and the Kid

tashadoestulsa@gmail.com (Tasha) — Sun, 24 Jan 2010 18:12:00 +0000

Earlier this week we had our first dentist appointment. Well, not my first dentist appointment. My son's. It was his first dentist appointment.

That's pretty much my sentiment, sweetheart. The dentist and I aren't exactly buds. After three years of orthodontia and countless appointments spent pinned down and wired with metal in the chair of a nice man named Dr. Katz, I wasn't exactly giddy to hop back into a dentist's chair.

Read more about our experience at the office of Dr. Mark Davis on my blog at Ttownmoms.com.

Calling all Tulsa Bloggers

tashadoestulsa@gmail.com (Tasha) — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 20:00:00 +0000

It's been awhile since the bloggers of the Tulsa had a regular meet-up.

Today we say, enough of that.

If you've ever longed for companionship in this fragmented legion of bathrobe-wearing, coffee-drinking, pontificating warriors of the Web, meet the fine folk behind ArtofManliness.com (yes, it's based right here in Tulsa!), TulsaProject.com and the delinquents responsible for the blog you're presently reading for pizza, beer and general geek chat at Joe Momma's downtown on Feb. 4 at 7pm. Whether you're a Tulsa-based tech blogger or mommy blogger or food blogger or political blogger or whatever-pops-into-your-pretty-head blogger, one and all are welcome.

There's no program for this meeting. This isn't without reason. First, it'll be nice to just see everybody in one place, at the same time. We'll need some time to meet and greet, catch up, poke fun at each other's posts and to generally wonk out. Before the end of the evening we'll chat about what, if anything, we would want to get out of a group of regularly meeting T-Towners who really get something out of hitting that "post now" button every now and then.

Basically, we're gauging how interested Tulsa bloggers would be in taking over the world.

Because we're suited to rule the world. Obviously.

Here again are the event details:

WHO: You, the Tulsa-area blogger

WHAT: A gathering of Tulsa-area bloggers, just for fun

WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 4, 7pm

WHERE: Joe Momma's, 112 S. Elgin

Once you ink the details of this event into your calendar, be a pal and send me a quick e-mail as an RSVP. Better yet, if you're on Facebook, RSVP there (and spy on who else says they're coming, too). As always, if you have any questions or comments or good jokes, shoot me an e-mail.

If you're the man or woman behind the curtain of a blog based in the Tulsa area, please join us. It'll be fun. Plus, all of your wildest dreams will come true. And you won't have to thank anyone but yourself for the pleasure.

What to Do in Tulsa This Weekend

tashadoestulsa@gmail.com (Tasha) — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 23:20:00 +0000

Rain, rain (and a chance of flurries), go away - at least, until this weekend is over. This is the most we've had going on here in Tulsa since the weekend before Christmas, so don't miss any opportunity to get out and live it up, water falling from the sky or not. Hey. I'm talking to you.

As heard every Friday morning on the KRMG Morning News with Joe Kelley, here's what to do in Tulsa this weekend.

Friday, January 22

Tasha's Pick: Falling Whistles/Haiti Benefit (Red headings = Community/Other Stuff)
When: 7pm
Where: Ida Red, 3346 S. Peoria Ave.
Three birds, one stone: Hear Sean Carasso, founder of Congo relief group Falling Whistles, speak about what it means to be a whistleblower for peace; give and help to raise money toward disaster relief in Haiti; hear six local music artists live, from Michelle and Adam Palmer to Eric Himan and Jimmy Adams of Eric and the Adams to Jessee Aycock. Local businesses will provide silent auction items to help raise money for Haiti and peace in the Congo. Be there; every little bit counts.

Portraits of a Garden (Purple headings = Arts & Theatre)
When: Friday, 9am-4pm; Saturday, 9am-4pm
Where: Tulsa Garden Center, 2435 S. Peoria ave.
After collecting the photos of amateur photographers from all over the Tulsa area, Tulsa Garden Center will host this contest and exhibition of the work gathered. See a variety of photos grouped by theme - from Seasons in the Garden to Water Features - technique and the age of the photographer. There's a section of photos created by kids 12 and under - cool, huh?

Norah Jones Tickets On Sale (Blue headings = Music)
When: 10am
Get tickets to this much-anticipated concert featuring Norah's new sound at Reasor's and Starship Records in Tulsa, at Buy For Less locations in OKC. Or, charge by phone at 866.977.6849 or online at protix.com. Tickets are $47.50 and $57.50. The venue is Brady Theater, 105 W. Brady Street.

Tulsa World Gymnastics Invitational (Orange headings = Sports)
When: Friday, 3pm-7pm; Saturday, 8am-6pm ; Sunday, 8am-5pm
Where: SpiritBank Event Center, 10441 S. Regal Blvd.
See a variety of pint-sized competitors at this match-up of gymnasts from all over the state. Tickets are $10 for adults per day, $2 for kids.

D.R.I.
When: Friday, 6:30pm
Where: The Marquee, 222 N. Main Street
Catch D.R.I. (Dirty Rotten Imbeciles) along with four other local artists. Tickets are $10 in advance, $13 at the door.

Cody McCombs
When: 7pm
Where: Flytrap Music Hall, 514 E. Second Street
With Popular Culture, Two Steps Back and more. Tickets are $5 in advance, $7 at the door.

The Hobbit
When: Friday, 7pm; Saturday, 11am
Where: Tulsa PAC, 110 E. Second Street
Theatre Sans Fils (Theatre Without Strings) presents a life-size puppet production of J.R.R. Tolkien's classic story about Bilbo Baggins, the Hobbit, and his adventure with dwarves, elves, a dragon and a wizard. This show is recommended for kids in the 3rd grade and older. Tickets are $8.

Pajama Bounce (Green = Stuff to do for kids)
When: 7pm
Where: Bounce U, 8922 S. Memorial Drive
Put the kids in their pajamas, bring them to Bounce U and be part of the creation of the best night's sleep in the history of the universe. Cost is $6.95 per student.

OMEA Honor Band
When: Friday, 7:30pm
Where: Tulsa PAC, 110 E. Second Street
The kids don't call this honor band for nothin' - this show promises to be good listening for all. Tickets are $10.

Tulsa Oilers v. Wichita
When: 7:35pm
Where: BOK Center, 200 N. Denver Ave.
Not only is it ladies' night - that means free chair massages, ticket deals and more for you, girls - but it's also Drysdale gift card night. And Broken Arrow night, too. Tickets start at $10.

Reverend Horton Heat

When: Doors at 7pm, show at 8pm

Where: Cain's Ballroom, 423 N. Main Street

From the band whose latest record is "full of country-heavy tunes about bad habits, well-meaning but clueless husbands, ever-expanding beer-guts and, well, Texas." Deadbolt opens. Tickets are $17 in advance, $25 at the door.

The Grace Project
When: 8pm
Where: Nightingale Theater, 1416 E. Fourth Street
A production commissioned by Grace Hospice, The Grace Project is comprised of short pieces about death from the 50swats writers' collective. Tickets are $8.

Night of January 16
When: Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 2pm
Where: Owasso High School's Mary Glass Performing Arts Center, 12901 E. 86th Street North
Owasso Community Theater Company presents a murder mystery with a twist (of Ayn Rand). Based on courtroom testimonies, drama and comedy, the guilt or innocence of the accused will be decided each performance by a jury selected from audience volunteers. Recommended for ages 12 and up. Tickets are $8 for adults, $6 for students and seniors.

Donna Rose at OKEQ
When: 8pm
Where: Dennis R. Neill Equality Center, 621 E. Fourth Street
Oklahomans for Equality host internationally known transgender activist Donna Rose. A champagne reception will follow Rose's lecture.

Saturday, January 23

Tasha's Pick: Momma's Saturday Book Club

When: 11:30am

Where: Joe Momma's, 112 S. Elgin Ave.

This is the hottest thing going on Saturday mornings in Tulsa as of late, folks. Get a piece of the pie (literally - it is a pizza place, after all) and hear a reading of The Sneetches by Dwelling Spaces owner Mary Beth Babcock. Win prizes, make crafts, read books, make new friends, eat good food. We all win.

Tulsa "World" Gymnastics Invitational
When: Friday, 3pm-7pm; Saturday, 8am-6pm ; Sunday, 8am-5pm
Where: SpiritBank Event Center, 10441 S. Regal Blvd.
See a variety of pint-sized competitors at this match-up of gymnasts from all over the state. Tickets are $10 for adults per day, $2 for kids.

Half-Price Weekends at Tulsa Zoo
When: Saturday, 9am-5pm; Sunday, 9am-5pm
Where: Tulsa Zoo, 6421 E. 36th Street North in Mohawk Park
Beat cabin fever this winter with Tulsa Zoo's half-price weekends. Come out of hibernation while keeping your wallet fat and travel from the Arctic to the Rainforest every Saturday and Sunday until the end of February, all without hopping a plane.

Portraits of a Garden
When: Friday, 9am-4pm; Saturday, 9am-4pm
Where: Tulsa Garden Center, 2435 S. Peoria ave.
After collecting the photos of amateur photographers from all over the Tulsa area, Tulsa Garden Center will host this contest and exhibition of the work gathered. See a variety of photos grouped by theme - from Seasons in the Garden to Water Features - technique and the age of the photographer (there's a section of photos created by kids 12 and under - cool, huh?).

George Strait Tickets On Sale
When: 10am
Where: BOK Center, 200 N. Denver Ave.
You won't want to miss this concert, folks, the first time in more than 13 years since our buddy George has entertained in Tulsa - especially not since Reba McEntire and Lee Ann Womack will be there, too. Tickets are $81.50 and $91.50.

Wide Open Bike Show
When: Saturday, 10am-9pm; Sunday, 10am-5pm
Where: Tulsa Convention Center, 100 Civic Center
Bikes, rats and rods, oh my! There will even be a tattoo contest for young and old alike. Tickets are $15 for the day, or $20 for the entire weekend, kids under 12 and military excluded.

Got Jeans?
When: 10:30am-5:30pm
Where: Abersons on Brookside, 3509 S. Peoria Ave.
Donate your old jeans to DVIS. Then, buy a new pair of Current/Elliott jeans and Abersons will donate $20 to DVIS. Give a little, get a little, as they say.

OKGamers Tourney
When: 11am for sign-up, tourney starts at 12:30pm
Where: Tulsa Community College Metro Campus, 909 S. Boston Ave.
Come compete against the best players in the region to win over 100 tournament and door prizes. Games are SSBB, Halo 2v2, Tekken 6, Street Fighter 4 and Blaz Bue. Bring it!

Crafternoon with Make:Tulsa
When: 2pm
Where: Nordaggio's Coffeehouse, 8156 S. Lewis Ave.
Bring a portable project and join the crafters of Make:Tulsa for some communal creating - no, not that kind of communal creating.

The Hobbit
When: Friday, 7pm; Saturday, 11am
Where: Tulsa PAC, 110 E. Second Street
Theatre Sans Fils (Theatre Without Strings) presents a life-size puppet production of J.R.R. Tolkien's classic story about Bilbo Baggins, the Hobbit, and his adventure with dwarves, elves, a dragon and a wizard. This show is recommended for kids in the 3rd grade and older. Tickets are $8.

OMEA Choirs
When: 12:15pm
Where: Tulsa PAC, 110 E. Second Street
The kids don't call this honor band for nothin' - this show promises to be good listening for all. Tickets are $10.

PAWS for Reading
When: 1pm
Where: Nathan Hale Library, 6038 E. 23rd Street
Registered therapy dogs are excellent listeners, you know. Kids are invited to read their favorite books to a furry, four-pawed friend. Each reader will receive a free (!!!) book provided by the Tulsa Library Trust and CITGO Petroleum.

About Oklahoma Landscapes — A Plains State of Mind
When: 1:30pm
Where: Gilcrease Museum, 1400 Gilcrease Museum Road
David Rettig, Curator of Corporate Collections for Allan Houser Inc., will speak on Allan Houser’s career and work and the family legacy. Bob Haozous and Phillip Haozous will discuss the individual, personal approach taken to their work.

Harlem Globetrotters
When: 2pm and 7pm
Where: BOK Center, 200 N. Denver Ave.
Harlem Globetrotters Flight Time Lang and Big Easy Lofton, who competed in the Emmy Award-winning CBS reality hit, “The Amazing Race,” will reunite with their teammates right here in Tulsa as part of the Globetrotters’ 2010 “Magical Memories” World Tour. Tickets start at $20.

Insight Into the Adkins Collection
When: 2pm
Where: Philbrook Museum, 2727 S. Rockford Ave.
The exhibition, "A Passion for the West: Paintings from the Eugene B. Adkins Collection," includes paintings by the likes of Oscar Berninghaus, Ernest Blumenshein, E. I. Couse, and Nicolai Fechin. Byron Price, Director of the Charles M. Russell Center for the Study of Art of the American West at the University of Oklahoma, will lead visitors in an examination of the works, the artists and their depictions of the American West.

OU Women's Basketball
When: 2pm
Where: Norman
Watch the Sooners take on Kansas.

TU Men's Basketball
When: 2pm
Where: Reynolds Center, 3208 E. Eighth Street
The Hurricanes take on Rice.

OMEA Orchestra
When: 2:30pm
Where: Tulsa PAC, 110 E. Second Street
The kids don't call this honor band for nothin' - this show promises to be good listening for all. Tickets are $10.

Korpiklaani, Tyr, Swashbuckle and White Wizzard
When: 4pm
Where: Flytrap Music Hall, 514 E. Second Street
These acts will be live on stage, plus four other local acts. Tickets are $15 in advance, $17 at the door.

TU Women's Basketball
When: 5pm
Where: Reynolds Center, 3208 E. Eighth Street
The Hurricanes take on Marshall.

Tulsa County 4H Horse Clinic
When: 6pm-10pm
Where: Expo Square, Mustang Arena, 4145B E. 21st Street
Don't know the first thing about horses? This just might be the place to start. Open to the public.

Body Image: A Performance Event
When: 7pm
Where: Living ArtSpace, 307 E. Brady Street
Body Image. There - did you cringe? Did your mind instantly jump to some physical imperfection? Join us for an exploration of the roots and consequences of our physical self-concepts, from how they’re formed, the impacts of media influence, the disparities between how we see ourselves and how others perceive us as individuals, and possibly even a way to embrace ourselves in wholeness. Tickets are $7, or $5 for members.

April Verch Band
When: 7:30pm
Where: Tulsa PAC, 110 E. Second Street
This woman - who is only 27 years old, by the way - can rock a fiddle like something fierce. See her take on a diverse repertoire downtown Saturday night. Tickets are $28.

Peaches and Herb
When: 7:30pm
Where: Osage Event Center, 951 W. 36th Street North
Admission was free, everybody, but the show is sold out. If you can figure out a way to get tickets, let us know in the comments.

Signature Symphony: Piotr Sulkowski
When: 8pm
Where: TCC Van Trease PAC, 10300 East 81st Street
The Signature Symphony Strings will be the entire orchestra for this January classics concert. Principal Guest Conductor Piotr Sulkowski of Poland returns. The program will feature Tchiakovsky's favorite work, Serenade for Strings, along with a new work from Sulkowski's homeland and "Adegietto" from Mahler's 5th Symphony. Tickets start at $21.75.

The Grace Project
When: 8pm
Where: Nightingale Theater, 1416 E. Fourth Street
A production commissioned by Grace Hospice, The Grace Project is comprised of short pieces about death from the 50swats writers' collective. Tickets are $8.

Night of January 16
When: Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 2pm
Where: Owasso High School's Mary Glass Performing Arts Center, 12901 E. 86th Street North
Owasso Community Theater Company presents a murder mystery with a twist (of Ayn Rand). Based on courtroom testimonies, drama and comedy, the guilt or innocence of the accused will be decided each performance by a jury selected from audience volunteers. Recommended for ages 12 and up. Tickets are $8 for adults, $6 for students and seniors.

Bricks
When: Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 2pm
Where: Heller Theatre, 4825 S. Quaker
Heller Theatre @ Henthorne presents the winner of its 2008-09 International Original Play Contest: "Bricks," by Ron Radice. It play, depicting just another evening at home for Patti and Petey, a not-so-happy couple in a not-so-happy land, will be presented as a staged reading this weekend. Tickets are $5.

Sunday, January 24

Tasha's Pick: Annie Ellicott and Nathan Fifield
When: 5pm
Where: Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame, 111 E. First Street
There's a reason both men and woman alike swoon at the mere mention of the name Ellicott. Come see why this weekend at the Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame, right smack dab in the middle of downtown Tulsa. Tickets are $15 for general admission seating or $20 for each seat at a table reserved for eight.

Tulsa World Gymnastics Invitational
When: Friday, 3pm-7pm; Saturday, 8am-6pm ; Sunday, 8am-5pm
Where: SpiritBank Event Center, 10441 S. Regal Blvd.
See a variety of pint-sized competitors at this match-up of gymnasts from all over the state. Tickets are $10 for adults per day, $2 for kids.

Half-Price Weekends at Tulsa Zoo

When: Saturday, 9am-5pm; Sunday, 9am-5pm

Where: Tulsa Zoo, 6421 E. 36th Street North in Mohawk Park

Beat cabin fever this winter with Tulsa Zoo's half-price weekends. Come out of hibernation while keeping your wallet fat and travel from the Arctic to the Rainforest every Saturday and Sunday until the end of February, all without hopping a plane.

Wide Open Bike Show
When: Saturday, 10am-9pm; Sunday, 10am-5pm
Where: Tulsa Convention Center, 100 Civic Center
Bikes, rats and rods, oh my! There will even be a tattoo contest. Tickets are $15 for the day, or $20 for the entire weekend, kids under 12 and military excluded.

Super Shark Sunday
When: 10am-6pm
Where: Oklahoma Aquarium, 300 Aquarium Drive in Jenks
Kids have the chance to sleuth out a shark secret and turn in their discovery for a drawing of prizes ranging from shark teeth souvenirs to an annual family membership (!) on the last Sunday in February. Oklahoma Aquarium's own Shark Man will be hanging around to help with clues.

Night of January 16
When: Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 2pm
Where: Owasso High School's Mary Glass Performing Arts Center, 12901 E. 86th Street North
Owasso Community Theater Company presents a murder mystery with a twist (of Ayn Rand). Based on courtroom testimonies, drama and comedy, the guilt or innocence of the accused will be decided each performance by a jury selected from audience volunteers. Recommended for ages 12 and up. Tickets are $8 for adults, $6 for students and seniors.

Bricks
When: Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 2pm
Where: Heller Theatre, 4825 S. Quaker
Heller Theatre @ Henthorne presents the winner of its 2008-09 International Original Play Contest: "Bricks," by Ron Radice. It play, depicting just another evening at home for Patti and Petey, a not-so-happy couple in a not-so-happy land, will be presented as a staged reading this weekend. Tickets are $5.

Tulsa Oilers v. Rio Grande Valley
When: 4pm
Where: BOK Center, 200 N. Denver Ave.
Hey, kids - be sure to stay late for the post-game skate with the Oilers. Ticket start at $10.

The Fiery Furnaces
When: Doors at 7pm, Show at 8pm
Where: Cain's Ballroom, 423 N. Main Street
Drug Rug and The Red Alert open. Tickets are $16, or $18 at the door.

Movies

Extraordinary Measures
When: Opens Friday
From Yahoo! Movies: Harrison Ford stars in the true story of a scientist who partners with a couple to develop a cure for a rare disease killing their children. Heavy, man, heavy. Rated PG, somehow.

Legion
When: Opens Friday
From Yahoo! Movies: A group of strangers in a desert diner must defend themselves against a legion of angels sent by God to bring on the Apocalypse. Starring my boyfriend Paul Bettany. Rated R, duh.

The Tooth Fairy
When: Opens Friday
From Yahoo! Movies: Dwayne Johnson is a pro hockey player nicknamed the Tooth Fairy, who is ordered to one week's hard labor as the real Tooth Fairy. Oh, Dwayne. Rated PG.

The Private Lives of Pippa Lee
When: Opens Friday
Where: Circle Cinema, 12 S. Lewis Ave.
After her much older husband forces a move to a suburban retirement community, Pippa Lee finds herself heading toward a nervous breakdown. Stars Robin Wright Penn, Julianne Moore, Keanu Reeves and Winona Ryder.

Denial

tashadoestulsa@gmail.com (Tasha) — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 23:00:00 +0000

One day, a psychologist named Elisabeth Kübler-Ross came up with the five stages of grief. You know the drill: Denial. Anger. Bargaining. Depression. Last, Acceptance.

At 22 months, my son is too young to understand the late-night wars. All he knows is that he loves - no, lurves - Conan O'Brien. I can't blame him. I've been practically obsessed since I was in the ninth grade myself.

Ever since six months or so ago, when I figured out we could watch as much Conan as we wanted via online video provider and mushy-mush creator Hulu, my kiddo has been equally enthralled. He demands the show daily.

This, of course, leaves me in a bit of a pinch.

Hear an audio example of toddler denial on my blog at Ttownmoms.com.

The Coolest Thing Shakin' in Tulsa Tonight

tashadoestulsa@gmail.com (Tasha) — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 19:07:00 +0000

The folks at Philbrook Museum have been more busy than usual preparing for this month's Third Thursday event. Why? Because Eames Demetrios is coming to Tulsa.

Yeah. That Eames Demetrios.

In the design world, the Eames name is tops. Objects designed by Charles and Ray Eames are legendary for their beauty and utility, and Demetrios, their grandson, spends his time communicating, preserving, and extending their work. His projects include multimedia production, printed materials, toys, exhibition design, filmmaking and more. He's also the director of the Eames Office.

At Philbrook tonight he'll provide a personal look at the designers, their process, philosophy and influence on the design world. Demetrios will be sharing a few treasures from the family archive as well as signing books and posters. He'll talk about design vs. style, too.

Here's the schedule for this evening, right out of a designer's top 10 wildest dreams file:

5:30 pm: Tickets available from the Admission desk. No advance reservations.
5:30-6:30 pm: Cash bar available and photographer on site for your chance to be a part of our new ad campaign.
6:30-7:30 pm: Lecture begins in Auditorium, Live simulcast near Restaurant.
7:30-8 pm: Free posters designed by Demetrios will be available for signing.

It all gets started at Philbrook, at 2727 S. Rockford Ave., the conclusion of the work day. And get this: There's no cost to see Demetrios with paid museum admission.

Want an even better deal? If you bring a copy of last week's edition of Urban Tulsa Weekly (or print/cut one out here) to the admission counter, you get BOGO admission. So, not only do you get to see Eames Demetrios for fuh-reaking free, but you also get you and a buddy into Philbrook Museum for the price of one.

This talk is presented in partnership with Art Directors Club of Tulsa and in conjunction with Modern Tulsa, an organization of the Tulsa Foundation for Architecture. It was made possible through the generous support of Z-104.5 The Edge, Ervin Photography and Urban Tulsa Weekly, so thank those folks when you see them.

While your hanging at Philbrook tonight, don't forget to swing in to see the modern and contemporary design gallery featuring items from the George R. Kravis II Collection. There's a vintage Eames chair as you enter. Just don't joke about sitting in it. The museum attendants do not think that's cute or funny. I should know.

Power Lunch: Cosmo Cafe & Bar

tashadoestulsa@gmail.com (Tasha) — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 14:36:00 +0000

A new cafe/bar concept that got its start in south Tulsa in 2004 has landed on Brookside with a makeover to match.

Read the review on the food page in this week's edition of Tulsa Business Journal.

Tulsa Gets Extreme

tashadoestulsa@gmail.com (Tasha) — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 05:00:00 +0000

As you probably know by now, ABC's Emmy award-winning show "Extreme Makover: Home Edition" plans to reward a deserving Tulsa family with a new home on Feb. 3.

How cool is that? That means we Tulsans get to play host not just to the show producers who will be hanging out here for the next couple of weeks, but also to the entire country as they look in on the lucky family and where they made the home they've had.

Help to kick off the Extreme home build kickoff at Donald W. Reynolds Center on the University of Tulsa campus tomorrow (Tuesday, Jan. 19), and don't forget to wave to the cameras. A community rally starts at 9:30am, and all are welcome. Keep in mind that the family's name hasn't yet been released. It's supposed to be a surprise, you know.

The famous door knock will happen later this month, on Jan. 28. That same day, the build will officially begin. It's a whirlwind process, this Extreme Makeover business.

Just one week later, the new home will be revealed to the family. There will be hugs and crying and probably a squee here and there. Mostly, it'll be glorious.

I can't wait to find out who the lucky family is.

For the third time Owasso-based home builder Simmons Homes is teaming up with the show. In March 2008, Simmons Homes helped New Orleans residents rebuild after Hurricane Katrina. Simmons helped to build a house for a Dewey, Okla., family under the banner of "Extreme Makeover," too. Because this time the family chosen to receive a new home is in the builder's backyard, it's special, Owner Greg Simmons said.

Wanna be part of the magic beyond the kickoff tomorrow? Simmons Homes is seeking skilled and licensed craftsmen to volunteer (that includes providing your own transportation, lodging and food, folks) for onsite shifts at the Extreme House. Volunteers needed include electricians, painters, framers, plumbers and drywallers. Employers, you can get in on this by allowing employees to participate. Or, donate tools and supplies.

To volunteer for the Tulsa Extreme build, visit extremesimmons.com.

The hour-long episode of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition Does Tulsa will air in early March. The show airs Sundays at 7pm Tulsa time on KTUL Channel 8.

Tulsa. It's Mondo.

tashadoestulsa@gmail.com (Tasha) — Mon, 18 Jan 2010 23:23:00 +0000

You guys. Check this out.

Are you not a better person for having watched this? I'm pretty sure I am. I'm also much thinner for all the laughing I did, especially during the twenty-second intro. Also because of the "I am one New Moon-loving negro" comment.

Ha! Mercy.

If you watched the clip you'll know that the show is Mondo Tulsa, and the above is the first episode of the series. Robert Walters is frontman, writer and creator of MT, with Erin McHenry and T.J. Clark behind the camera as producers. It's all under the umbrella of Seven Tummy Productions, probably the most adorable and cuddly production company name ever.

I can't wait to see next week's edition.

What to Do With the Kids in Tulsa on Martin Luther King Jr. Day

tashadoestulsa@gmail.com (Tasha) — Mon, 18 Jan 2010 03:50:00 +0000

Monday is Martin Luther King Jr. Day. It's a day of remembrance and hope. It's a time to observe the life of a man who wholly devoted himself to the ideals of peace and quality and, in the end, had to sacrifice his life for his glorious dream.

There's another translation of MLK Day for all of us, especially we who have munchkins at home: It's a three-day weekend for the kiddos. Problem is, many of us don't get to sit this holiday out from work.

If this is you, get with Tulsa-based Seeking Sitters. There's a reason you hear nothing but good about this babysitting company - it's because they're the best, and the range of their offerings, whether it's in-home babysitting or sitters available to come into your office on these days when all the kids are out of school, can't be beat. Here's how to get set up.

Another option is the Sea Camp at Oklahoma Aquarium, 300 Aquarium Drive in Jenks. If your kids are in grades between kindergarten and fifth, pack 'em up and send them off to play games and learn about aquatic life all the live-long day. The cost is $50, but this ain't daycare, folks. The kids will be engaged, stimulated and challenged. And who knows, maybe your little person will make a new friend or two. Before and after care is available. Call 918.528-1508 or e-mail the Aquarium to register.

For those of us who don't have the option of respite from children plotting against us all day from their playroom lairs, I have a few ideas.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade
When: 11am
Where: Starting at Pine Street and Cincinnati Avenue in downtown Tulsa
This annual parade - the theme of which for this year is "Dream It, Plan It, Do It: Yes We Can!" - will proceed from Pine and Greenwood through what was once known throughout the U.S. as Black Wall Street, ending at Archer Street.

Scout Day at Oklahoma Aquarium
When: 10am-6pm
Where: Oklahoma Aquarium, 300 Aquarium Drive
The Oklahoma Aquarium hosts quarterly Scout Days to honor youth organizations like Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Camp Fire, 4-H and FFA and their members. Members in uniform or carrying a membership card and one accompanying adult can be admitted to the Aquarium at the discounted rate of $7 per youth and $10 per adult. They can also earn the Oklahoma Aquarium’s own Junior Biologist Badge. It's so fun that it won't feel like education, but it is.

Purple Glaze
When: 11am-9pm
Where: 3303 S. Peoria Ave. and 6528 E. 91st Street
What's more fun than making a mess with your kids? Making a mess with your kids that you don't have to clean up, duh. Head to Purple Glaze to pick out your favorite ceramic. Spend the afternoon painting or tiling it, just the way you like. Leave it behind for a few days for glazing and firing, voila, a one-of-a-kind commemoration of MLK Day 2010. Bonus: There's no studio fee on Mondays.

Bounce U
When: 1:30-3pm
Where: 8229 S. Memorial Drive
Create the best nap time ever with a warehouse full of inflatable playground equipment. Reservations (and extra socks!) are needed for all events. Call (918) 249-0900 or e-mail the folks at Bounce U Tulsa.

Kaleidoscope Children's Museum
When: 10am-5pm
Where: 6202 S. Sheridan Road
If you couldn't get your kids not to touch delicate pieces of art to save your life, Kaleidoscope just might be the place for you. It's a hands-on kind of museum, with plenty of encouragement for your kids to do some learning about art and science. Who said a day off from school has to mean a day off from learning? Hours are extended to 10am-5pm for MLK Day. Admission is $5, and kids under 2 get in free.

Gardner's Used Books
When: 10am-8pm
Where: 4221 S. Mingo Road
Have I mentioned that I love this place? Yes? Well, I'm going to say it again. There's plenty of space for young kids to toddle, tons of books, music, comics and toys to keep older kids busy, and no one really cares if your brood gets a little rambunctious. Plus, there are two great restaurants right next door, including Gatsby's Grill. Yum. See how many books on MLK Jr. and the civil rights movement you can find - my guess is that, at Gardner's, it's in the hundreds. Pick out one or two, fork over the few bucks that they'll cost and look/talk 'em over with your kids.

Lunch
If while you're out and about when little tummies start to growl, feel free to use my short list of indie lunch spots that are welcoming to young kids and their families (several of these even offer toys to keep the kids happy while the food's a cookin'): Joe Mommas downtown (complete with old-school video games); Cosmo Cafe on Brookside; Elote Cafe & Catering; Brewburger (kids eat for a buck on Mondays); Crusty Croissant; Dilly Deli; Kupcakz (maybe for dessert - or, if you're like me, maybe for lunch); The Brook (both Midtown and South); and Hideaway Pizza.

What are you and the kids planning to do together on MLK Day?

What to Do in Tulsa This Martin Luther King Jr. Day

tashadoestulsa@gmail.com (Tasha) — Mon, 18 Jan 2010 03:45:00 +0000

Looking for a way to celebrate the life and accomplishments of Martin Luther King Jr.? Check out these Tulsa events.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade

When: 11am

Where: Starting at Pine Street and Cincinnati Avenue in downtown Tulsa

This annual parade - the theme of which for this year is "Dream It, Plan It, Do It: Yes We Can!" - will proceed from Pine and Greenwood through what was once known throughout the U.S. as Black Wall Street, ending at Archer Street. Always a glorious production.

MLK Day Community Breakfast
When: 8:30-10:30am
Where: Metropolitan Tulsa Urban League, 240 E. Apache
Made possible with donations from Bama, Borden, QuikTrip, United Way, Walmart and The Wild Fork - yes, The Wild Fork. You know this is gonna be good.

I Am A Man: Memphis '68
When: Every hour, on the hour, from 1pm-8pm
Where: Circle Cinema, 12 S. Lewis Ave.
Since this movie packs some complicated themes - manhood, race and civil rights - I'll leave it to you to decide if this is a good choice for you and the kids. If you're unencumbered, be sure to catch a free showing of this 30-minute, not-rated movie, showing in remembrance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

How do you celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day in Tulsa?

Redeeming Storytime

tashadoestulsa@gmail.com (Tasha) — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 22:45:00 +0000

We've all been to storytime, and let's be frank: More often than not, it's boring. It's a way we moms feel okay about passing the time. After all, there's the added bonus that we're edifying our children with age-appropriate literature, but still. Between yawns, most of us are fantasizing about what's on TV back at the house, whether we want to admit it or not.

Momma's Saturday Book Club is different.

Learn how on my blog at Ttownmoms.com.

What To Do in Tulsa This Weekend

tashadoestulsa@gmail.com (Tasha) — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 00:45:00 +0000

We're going to try something different here on this week's edition of What To Do in Tulsa This Weekend.

Instead of grouping events by type - music events, art events, theatre events and the like - I listed them in chronological order and grouped them by weekend day. Now all of Friday's events are together, snug as a bug in a rug. It's the same with Saturday and Sunday events, too.

But, say you couldn't give a hoot about what's going on in the sports world this weekend. Maybe all you care about is this weekend's offering in music, and you don't want any other kind of event clouding your laser vision. To find all of the music events happening in Tulsa before roll call on Monday, simply look for the listings with pretty blue headings. I've color coded the other types of events, too, as such:

Orange = Sports
Blue = Music
Purple = Arts & Theatre
Green = Stuff to do for Kids
Red = Community/Other Stuff

Because show times vary, movies remain under their own heading.

With the chronological and the color-coded events listings joining forces, what you'll have (hopefully) is an events page that is so organized and so easy to use, you'll want to buy me a year's supply of chocolate peanuts. And I won't refuse you. Because that'd be bad manners, and my momma didn't raise no fool.

If this format doesn't work to your liking and you're thinking about spreading rumors that I still wore Rainbow Bright underwear in junior high if I don't change it back, e-mail me before you do anything that we'll both regret.

As heard every Friday morning at between 6-8:30am on the KRMG Morning News with Joe Kelley, here's what to do in Tulsa this weekend.

Friday, January 15

Tasha's Pick: Chili Bowl: Friday Qualifying Night
When: 9am-midnight
Where: Expo Square, QuikTrip Center, 4145 E. 21st Street
The nation's motorsports spectacle that is to the sport what the Super Bowl is to football is upon us, Tulsa. The 24th Annual Lucas Oil Chili Bowl Nationals is closing in on a quarter-century of unforgettable racing action atop the QuikTrip Center's quarter-mile Tulsa Expo Raceway clay oval at the Tulsa State Fairgrounds. It all kicked off Tuesday night, culminating with Saturday night's 50-lap championship main event. The entry list for the event is at 266, representing a worldwide field. Don't miss it.

Wanda Jackson @ Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
When: 11am
Where: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Catoosa, Grand Lobby
The Queen of Rockabilly and the First Lady of Rock-and-Roll herself will be at Hard Rock in Catoosa to sign and donate one of her signature Daisy Rock guitars to the hotel's private music collection. She plans to stick around to sign autographs for fans. Jackson has a new single coming out, by the way, on Jan. 26.

The Cherokee Story Continues
When: 1pm
Where: Gilcrease Museum, 1400 Gilcrease Museum Road
Dr. Duane King, executive director for Gilcrease Museum, will continue his presentation and discussion on Cherokee culture. This forum is free with paid museum admission.

You Are Here: Prints by May Yang
When: 5pm
Where: Dwelling Spaces, 119 S. Detroit Ave.
Check out this set of prints all about May's favorite city - Tulsa, of course, and all of its notable spots and familiar neighborhoods. I hear there will be cupcakes, too, so arrive early.

Senator Coburn Town Hall Meeting
When: 5:30-6:30pm
Where: SpiritBank Event Center, 10441 S. Regal Boulevard
If politics is your bag on a balmy Friday night, head south to visit with The Doctor, who will be taking questions and addressing issues important to Oklahomans.

Rebecca Ungerman @ Sake
When: 6:30pm
Where: Sake Japanese Restaurant, 6827 S. Memorial Drive
Make your way out south to see the winner of the 2009 Urban Tulsa Weekly Absolute Best Music Award for best female vocalist belt out tunes with Scott McQuade. Plus, there will be sushi. What's not to love?

Silent Movie Night at Theatre Organ Club
When: Doors at 6:30pm, show at 7pm
Where: Tulsa Technology Center, 4600 S. Olive Ave. in Broken Arrow
Get a little closer to the days of vaudeville with a silent movie with the Sooner State Chapter of the American Theatre Organ Society. See the 1925 movie, The Son of The Sheik, starring Rudolph Valentino. Bill Rowland will man theatre pipe organ. Admission is free, and so is the popcorn and lemonade.

TU Women's Basketball
When: 7pm
Where: Reynolds Center, 3208 E. Eighth Street
Watch the lady Hurricanes take on the girls from Tulane.

Adam Heare and Dorian Mode
When: Doors at 7pm, show at 8pm
Where: Flytrap Music Hall, 514 E. Second Street
With Two Steps Back and Popular Culture. Call 918.794.0238 for tickets.

What the Butler Saw
When: 8pm
Where: Tulsa Performing Arts Center, 110 E. Second Street
If you like Oscar Wilde (a little Earnest, anyone?), you'll love this final play written by Joe Orton, a master of macabre and known for his sharp sociosexual commentary that tests the boundaries of traditional theatre. Leave the kids at home for this one. Tickets are $15.

The Grace Project
When: 8pm
Where: Nightingale Theater, 1416 E. Fourth Street
A production commissioned by Grace Hospice, The Grace Project is comprised of short pieces about death from the 50swats writers' collective. Tickets are $8.

Saturday, January 16

Tasha's Pick: Momma's Saturday Book Club

When: 11:30am

Where: Joe Momma's, 112 S. Elgin Ave.

This weekly kids' book club meet-up is going strong, and this week it's all about Edward - you know, Edward from The Boy Who Wouldn't Share. Make a craft, win some killer door prizes and chow down on homemade fudge, just like in the book. Don't forget to nosh on plenty of pizza, too - I recommend the bacon cheeseburger pie. It's the best.

Chili Bowl: Chili Bowl Championship Feature Saturday

When: 9am-11pm

Where: Expo Square, QuikTrip Center, 4145 E. 21st Street

The nation's motorsports spectacle that is to the sport what the Super Bowl is to football is upon us, Tulsa. The 24th Annual Lucas Oil Chili Bowl Nationals is closing in on a quarter-century of unforgettable racing action atop the QuikTrip Center's quarter-mile Tulsa Expo Raceway clay oval at the Tulsa State Fairgrounds. It all kicked off Tuesday night, culminating with Saturday night's 50-lap championship main event. The entry list for the event is at 266, representing a worldwide field. Don't miss it.

Throwback to the '60s

When: 9am-5pm

Where: Jubilee Hall, Boston Avenue United Methodist Church at 13th and Boston

Head to this workshop if you'd like to spend this weekend enlightening the youth in your life about the era of Dr. King. It's going to be a fun, creative and interactive atmosphere, thanks to music, dance, skits and media footage. Lunch will be provided, and the workshop is free.

Tulsa Ballroom Grand Opening - Public Open House
When: 10am-2pm
Where: Tulsa Convention Center, 100 Civic Center
Christen the newly renovated and highly classy Convention Center, just by showing up. Don't miss the live music and giveaways.

OU Men's Basketball
When: Noon
Where: Norman
Watch the Sooners take on Missouri.

PAWS for Reading
When and Where: 1pm at Martin Regional Library; 2pm at Zarrow Regional Library
Registered therapy dogs are excellent listeners, you know. Kids are invited to read their favorite books to a furry, four-pawed friend. Each reader gets a free book, provided by the Tulsa Library Trust and CITGO Petroleum. For ages 5-12.

Freestyle Cage Fighting
When: Doors at 6pm, event at 7pm
Where: Expo Square Pavilion, 1701 S. Louisville
How big is your belt? Compare and contrast at this fight event. The main event features two-time FCF Champion Joey "The Takedown Wizard" Gorzcynski against Chad "The Boss" Leonhardt. The co-Main event features Bixby native Ryan McClaim at Karl Knothe. In the true spirit of this wild prairie land, all ages are welcome to attend.

Girl Scout Sleepover
When: 6pm-8am Sunday morning
Where: Oklahoma Aquarium, 300 Aquarium Drive in Jenks
If you're the proud guardian of a Girl Scout, bring her to the Aquarium to enjoy a flashlight tour of the Aquarium, a scavenger hunt and more before drifting off to sleep alongside the peaceful Coral Reef Tank or underneath the Shark Adventure tunnel and dome. Wait - am I too old to join Girl Scouts? Because this sounds like serious good times. To register, call 918.745.5220.

Tulsa 66ers v. Erie BayHawks

When: 7pm

Where: Tulsa Convention Center, 100 Civic Center

Tickets start at $8.

OSU Women's Basketball

When: 7pm

Where: Gallagher-Iba Arena, Stillwater

Watch the Cowgirls take on the girls from Kansas State.

TU Men's Basketball

When: 7pm

Where: Reynolds Center, 3208 E. Eighth Street

Watch the Hurricanes take on UCF.

Tulsa Symphony: The Music of England
When: 7:30pm
Where: Tulsa Performing Arts Center, 110 E. Second Street
Close your eyes and think of England. Set sail across the pond with guest conductor Jose-Luis Novo. Tickets start at $10, with discounts for kids and seniors.

New Year's Revolution

When: Doors at 7pm, event at 8pm

Where: SpiritBank Event Center, 10441 S. Regal Boulevard

Xtreme Fighting League and 5150 Combat League presents this championship mixed martial arts show featuring Forrest Griffin. Tickets start at $20 in the risers, $55 on the floor. If you buy 10, you get two free. Smackdown!

The Televised

When: Doors at 7, show at 8pm

Where: Flytrap Music Hall, 514 E. Second Street

With Western Heritage, Apollo and ThePortrayl.

What the Butler Saw

When: 8pm

Where: Tulsa Performing Arts Center, 110 E. Second Street

If you like Oscar Wilde (a little Earnest, anyone?), you'll love this final play written by Joe Orton, a master of macabre and known for his sharp sociosexual commentary that tests the boundaries of traditional theatre. Leave the kids at home for this one. Tickets are $15.

The Grace Project

When: 8pm

Where: Nightingale Theater, 1416 E. Fourth Street

A production commissioned by Grace Hospice, The Grace Project is comprised of short pieces about death from the 50swats writers' collective. Tickets are $8.

Panic! Dance Party

When: 10pm

Where: Electric Circus, 222 E. First Street

There's nothing quite like a good dance party to unwind from a long week. Get DJs, sound, lights and a full liquor bar.

Sunday, January 17

Tasha's Pick: Immersive Music

When: 8pm

Where: Living ArtSpace, 307 E. Brady Street

Who doesn't love them some solid marimba music? Get it in a blend with electronics that is then manipulated by how the speakers are placed around the audience. Plus, the audience helps in sculpting the music. Tickets are $10, or $7 for members.

Singular Impressions
When: Starting Sunday and going through April 4, 2010
Where: Philbrook Museum, 2727 S. Rockford Ave.
Celebrate the legacy of Herbert and Roseline Gussman with a selection of prints by major European artists - you know, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Pablo Picasso, Georges Rouault and Joan Miro, those types of folks. Dating from 1890-1960, these works reflect the rapid and dramatic artistic developments that marked the rise of modern art.

TU Women's Basketball
When: 1pm
Where: Reynolds Center, 3208 E. Eighth Street
Watch the lady Hurricanes take on the girls from UTEP.

Emerson String Quartet
When: 3pm
Where: Tulsa Performing Arts Center, 110 E. Second Street
Love brooding, brawny musicians? Me, too. Let's go see this quartet, which has produced 30 recordings and earned eight Grammy awards, three Gramophone Awards, the Avery Fisher Prize during its 31 years of touring and recording, together. Tickets are $25.

Tulsa 66ers v. Erie BayHawks
When: 4pm
Where: Tulsa Convention Center, 100 Civic Center
Tickets start at $8.

Modern Tulsa's Mod of the Moment
When: 4-6pm
Where: 3576 S. Winston Ave.
Modern Tulsa is excited to announce its first-ever mod of the moment, an effort to showcase modern homes on the market in T-Town. Grab a drink, chill to some music and immerse yourself in modern design at the 1954 Cecil Stanfield, mid-century modern home at the corner of 36th Street and Winston Avenue.

OU Women's Basketball
When: 4:30pm
Where: Norman
Watch the Sooners take on the girls from Texas A&M.

Girl Scout Sleepover

When: 6pm-8am Monday morning

Where: Oklahoma Aquarium, 300 Aquarium Drive in Jenks

If you're the proud guardian of a Girl Scout, bring her to the Aquarium to enjoy a flashlight tour of the Aquarium, a scavenger hunt and more before drifting off to sleep alongside the peaceful Coral Reef Tank or underneath the Shark Adventure tunnel and dome. To register, call 918.745.5220.

Metal Showcase
When: Doors at 7pm show at 8pm
Where: Flytrap Music Hall, 514 E. Second Street
You can't kill the metal - the metal will live on. Featuring Joint Effect, Social Genosyde and more.

Movies

The Book of Eli
When: Opens Friday
From Yahoo! Movies: Denzel Washington fights his way across a post-apocalyptic wasteland to protect a book that holds the key to humanity's future. Rated R.

The Spy Next Door
When: Opens Friday
From Yahoo! Movies: Jackie Chan is an undercover superspy who must protect his family next door when one of the kids downloads a top-secret code. Rated PG.

A Single Man
When: Opens Friday
Where: Circle Cinema, 12 S. Lewis Ave.
Colin Firth plays an English professor who, after the sudden death of his partner, tries to go about his life in L.A. Also starring Julianne Moore. A film by Tom Ford and winner of three Golden Globe Award nominations.

So. What are YOU doing this weekend?