Happy Tuesday, Tulsa. In today’s edition: Produce prescription program, Botanic Garden of Lights, story time with TCCL, and more.

Let’s get to it — Cait Baker

📰 In the news

Community care on the move: University of Tulsa nursing students in the S.C.R.U.B.S. program brought care to a Tulsa shelter, offering health assessments, education, and connections while gaining community experience to better address health disparities — read the full story.

Economists outline Tulsa’s trajectory: Economists at Tulsa Regional Chamber’s State of the Economy event said Tulsa’s job growth is outpacing Oklahoma City, forecasting gains, tech-driven shifts, and population growth as affordability draws newcomers — see what economists predict.

Care meets local agriculture: Oklahoma Complete Health and FreshRx Oklahoma have launched a produce prescription program for Tulsa members with Type 2 diabetes. It offers produce, nutrition education, and clinical support, including biweekly boxes — see how to apply.

Compare rates for free: The national average for car insurance is around $175 per month. Paying more than that? Same, so I did some shopping around and ended up cutting my premium in half. If you haven’t checked in a while, you’re probably overpaying too — here’s the comparison tool I used.

Identity theft is up 25%: Last year, Americans lost $12.5 billion to ID theft & fraud, and the stories behind those numbers are brutal. My friend just told me his dad’s on his fourth replacement credit card. Other folks have woken up to empty bank accounts or their personal info dumped online after a breach. Aura catches these kinds of attacks early by monitoring for new accounts, weird money movements, leaked data, and other red flags so you’re alerted before things blow up — learn more about it here.

Highlights this week

• Explore Oklahoma’s largest indoor farm show
• Shop Tulsa’s Alternative Holiday Market
• Stroll sparkling gardens with live jazz
• Pedal past lights, support the Food Bank
• This pet insurance plan reimburses up to 90%
• A tiny hearing aid is taking the US by storm

🫶 We got your back

Community effort to fight cold: NewsChannel 8, the Tulsa Oilers, and Western Sun FCU are running the annual Spread the Warmth Blanket Drive, collecting new blankets now through Jan. 16 to help Green Country families. Drop off at Western Sun branches or bring one to the Oilers game on Friday, Jan. 16 for a WeStreet Ice Center skating voucher. Restore Hope will distribute. See where to donate blankets.

Open doors to city careers: The City of Tulsa is hosting a walk-in hiring event on Dec. 17 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Admin Building (4502 South Galveston Ave.). Attendees can meet with an Employment Hiring Analyst about open roles. Bring a driver’s license, resume, CJIS clearance, and transcripts. Missing items won’t disqualify you. See what to bring and where.

Cold-evening pint plans: Whether you lean dark and toasty or chase a festive Belgian glow, Cabin Boys Brewery keeps winter cozy with The Hallows, a Belgian-style tripel pouring November through March, alongside rich, fireside-friendly staples. Perfect for sweater weather, good company, and a proper Tulsa night.

Thinning hair? Same: I’ve been shedding a lot, and recently noticed my ponytail feeling thinner. After way too much panic-Googling, I decided to take Hers’ online quiz. They recommended a Biotin + Minoxidil green-apple gummy for regrowth and overall hair health. The whole thing was surprisingly easy: just verify who you are and a licensed provider signs off. Here’s the quiz if you want to check it out.

Makeup that actually works: My sister and I were talking the other day about how the makeup we used in our 20s… just doesn’t work now that we’re in our 30s and 40s. Laura Geller’s entire makeup line addresses this shift, with formulas that smooth, brighten, and actually stay put. If you’re in the same boat, their curated kits are worth a look.

📆 Around town this week

All events are subject to change without notice. This is entirely outside our control. Please check official event pages and social media for the most up to date information.

This week

🎤 Mother Road Market Live @ Mother Road Market | Tuesday (12/9) at 6:00pm – This weekly open mic brings Tulsa’s creatives out of hiding and into the spotlight—musicians, poets, and surprise acts included. Hosted by Andrew, it’s the perfect low-pressure, high-vibe way to spice up your Tuesday night. Patio hangs if it’s warm, cozy indoor tunes if it’s not. Either way, you’re getting two hours of feel-good local talent.

🎷 Grady Nichols Christmas Show @ Mabee Center | Tuesday (12/9) at 7:00pm – Tulsa’s favorite holiday tradition is back at the Mabee Center, with Grady Nichols, Andy Chrisman, Kelly Ford, Alaska Rayne, choir, strings, and LeAnne Taylor hosting. Expect goosebumps, a laugh, maybe a tear, and the warm-fuzzy bonus of supporting Lisa Bain Ministries.

✨ Botanic Garden of Lights @ Tulsa Botanic Garden | Wednesday (12/10) at 5:00pm – If your holiday spirit needs a reboot, trade the Rhema crawl for a stroll through thousands of lights at the Botanic Garden. S’mores, photo ops, Sunday jazz or Santa, timed tickets, and member discounts, so bundle up and call it quality time.

📖 Story time with TCCL at the Spotlight @ Spotlight Children’s Theatre | Friday (12/12) at 10:00am – Need an excuse to get the kids off screens? A Tulsa City-County librarian brings songs, stories, and that magical hush to the Spotlight, and every kid picks a free book from Gardner’s. Open to all ages, grandparents included.

🔥 Community Campfire Nights @ Herman and Kate Kaiser YMCA | Friday (12/12) at 5:30pm – Nothing beats a crackling fire, sticky s’mores, and some easygoing conversation to wrap up the week. This free community hangout brings the cozy vibes, the tunes, and plenty of reason to slow down for a couple hours. Bundle up, grab a friend, and let the Y handle the wholesome memories.

This weekend

🚘 1st Annual Car Show and Toy Drive @ Automotive Repairs and Maintenance 3 | Saturday (12/13) at 9:00am – Roll in for a feel-good mashup of shiny cars, hot food, and holiday generosity. Entry’s free—just bring a toy to donate and you’re in the show. It’s equal parts community spirit and revved-up fun, and a great way to spend a morning with the kids.

🧘 Sound Bath Meditation in Fly Loft @ Guthrie Green | Saturday (12/13) at 10:00am – Take a break from noise with a free sound bath at Fly Loft, courtesy of AARP Oklahoma. Crystal bowls, chimes, and a gong do the heavy lifting while you lie down and reset, so bring a pillow, a blanket, and come early, space is limited.

🛍️ Holiday Market @ Dennis R. Neill Equality Center | Saturday (12/13) at 1:00pm – Holiday Market is popping up at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center with queer cheer and truly giftable finds. Browse 2SLGBTQIA+ artists and makers for handmade art and crafts, then feel good knowing every purchase supports queer creatives. Skip the mall, see your neighbors.

🌱 Winter Terrarium Workshop with Abby McNett @ Liggett Studio | Saturday (12/13) at 1:00pm – Nothing beats a holiday craft that won’t leave glitter in the carpet. Abby McNett’s winter terrarium workshop lets you build a little scene in glass with trees, snow, and minis you bring. No experience, some supplies included, it doubles as a gift, or a brag.

🎭 Darci Lynne & Friends @ Bricktown Comedy Club | Sunday (12/14) at 6:00pm – Whether you watched her win AGT or just like seeing a teenager out-sing half the radio without moving her lips, Darci Lynne arrives with a diva rabbit, a shy mouse, and a delightfully cranky granny. Wholesome, clever, and perfect for impressing the grandkids.

Wanna see more? Browse our full events calendar →

🎶 Live music & entertainment

• 12/10 Stone Cold and the Jackal @ Bricktown Comedy Club – 7:30 pm
• 12/10 Sublime @ Tulsa Theatre – 7:30 pm
• 12/11 Coldplay Tribute @ The Shrine – 7 pm
• 12/11 Zakk Sabbath @ Tulsa Theatre – 7 pm
• 12/11 Chad Prather @ Loony Bin Comedy Club – 7:30 pm
• 12/11 The South Austin Moonlighters @ Thelma’s Peach – 8 pm
• 12/11 Missouri Executive Order 44 and more @ Whittier Bar – 9 pm

🏠️ This house is wild

Listed by: Brint Lang (McGraw, REALTORS)

Ranch Acres classic on a park like yard, wrapped in dry stack stone and warm wood floors. An open, flowing layout frames leafy views from two living areas, anchored by a woodburning fireplace. The granite and stainless kitchen pairs with marble flooring, the ensuite primary adds dual sinks, marble counters, and double closets. Three bedrooms and three baths keep it easy.

Move in ready with a two car garage, bonus storage, and a broad circle drive that says VIP arrival. Ranch Acres location adds curb appeal and convenience.

Take a peek inside →