Avanzando Juntos, a Tulsa non-profit committed to helping Latino communities advance their careers, has been awarded a Technical Assistance Grant by the U.S. Department of Treasury’s CDFI Fund which will establish them as a community-focused lending institution.

• Ability to Give: They will work with other nonprofits, banks and the community to ensure the advancement of marginalized groups with a focus on Latino entrepreneurs in Tulsa.
• Commitment to Growth: The organization supports Latino-owned businesses and entrepreneurs in Tulsa and will help provide funding needed to launch and scale small businesses.

Learn more HERE. 

The Tulsa Zoo broke ground on The Oxley Family Elephant Experience and Elephant Preserve, one of the largest elephant facilities in North America, in June. 

• Free range: The build out will include ten additional acres of preserve yard to give the elephants space to roam, while also featuring natural elements like trees, streams and natural ponds to give them a more authentic living experience in captivity. 
• One big house: The elephant barn will house a full kitchen so keepers can prepare meals for the entire herd. As well as, a natural substrate floor, rain control system and wet stalls for the three elephants currently living there - though they are looking to welcome more roommates in the future.

Freddie’s Bar-B-Q and Steak House in Sapulpa will close after 60 years of operation.

• A Legacy: The family owned restaurant made the decision a few months after the death of owner Edmond “Tex” Slyman.
• Humble Beginnings: Freddie’s was started in 1962 by Fred Joseph, who turned an oil-field grocery store into the beloved steakhouse. 

Read more about the Oklahoma staple HERE.

Tails and Ales, a coffee shop, bar and dog park concept is coming to downtown Tulsa.

• Breaking Ground: After the pandemic delayed construction, a local couple finally secured the final permits to start construction at 1903 S. Boston Ave. 
• Pup Parents Night Out: Patrons can enjoy coffee, local beers, craft cocktails, self service dog wash stations, a pet shop and even dog chaperons to play with and clean up after your dog.

Read more HERE.

Jenks School District has launched a new arts initiative called Growing Through The Arts aimed at introducing students pre-k through 11th grade to the field. 

• Musical magic: The program will allow students the ability to learn through a variety of music programs, like learning how sound is made scientifically. 
• Partnering together: Philbrook, AHHA and The Tulsa Symphony will be joining the district to bring a whole-child interactive experience to students. 

Learn more about the program HERE.