Greetings!
Tulsa is one of eight cities in the United States selected to participate in the first phase of an exciting National League of Cities (NLC) Program. The "City Leaders Supporting Afterschool and A New Day of Learning” will cast a spotlight on the issue of providing our kids safe, productive and learning environments.
In the past year, I have worked to build partnerships and mentors for our young people in Tulsa. I am honored that our city will participate in this grant program that will assist us with after school programs, youth mentoring and gang prevention. As a result of the work we already are doing in this area, I have been asked to speak next week at the NLC conference in Washington D.C. about Tulsa's educational and enforcement efforts to prevent youth and gang violence. We have made great progress in Tulsa, providing alternatives to gangs and promoting healthy youth activities and fitness, and through programs like this one, we will continue to strengthen our partnerships and reach out to the children of this great city.
Kathy Taylor
Mayor
Monday, March 3, 2008
Boston Avenue Now Two-Way
Boston Avenue downtown is officially a two-way street.
With completion of a street improvement project between Third Street and 10th Street, this seven-block section of Boston Avenue now accommodates both northbound and southbound traffic. This provides more travel options downtown as construction on other streets continues until the opening of the BOK Center in September.
Besides conversion from one-way traffic to two-way traffic, the $5.5 million Boston Avenue project included replacement of water lines and storm sewers, street rehabilitation, brick-like concrete pavers on sidewalks, curb bump-outs at intersections, decorative pedestrian lights between intersections, new trees and other streetscaping features. Construction began in April 2006, funded by the Third Penny Sales Tax.
NBA Preseason GameComes to BOK Center
The Houston Rockets will take on the Orlando Magic in Tulsa next fall in an NBA pre-season game.
The game will be at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 13, 2008.
Mayor Kathy Taylor and BOK Center Manager John Bolton announced the booking, which will be one of the first sporting events in the new arena scheduled to open in September.
New Year's Card
Unveiled at Art School
Mayor Kathy Taylor honored a select group of girls from the Tulsa Girls Art School for their creation of the 2008 New Year’s card at a recent unveiling of their artwork.
Tulsa Girls Art School is a Tulsa Community Foundation-affiliated after-school arts program for female students, third through sixth grade. Its purpose is to develop the girls’ talents, cultivate an atmosphere of healthy confidence, and encourage a lifetime appreciation of art.
“I am excited about the 2008 New Year’s card,” said Mayor Taylor, “and how beautifully the girls portrayed the spirit of community and diversity that thrives in our city. These talented girls are already on their way to a successful and artistic career. I am so proud of their work!”
Healthy Hersheys
The Hershey’s Track & Field Games, designed for youths 9 to 14 years old, will be held on Saturday, May 10, at 9 a.m., at East Central High School, 12150 E. 11. Tulsa Parks is organizing the regional event described as both ‘fun and healthy.’
For more than 30 years the Hershey Youth Program has involved millions of youngsters from all 50 states and Canada. Included in the competition are the 50-, 100-, 200- and 400- meter dashes; 4 x 100 meter relay, and 800- and 1600- meter runs. There will also be events in the standing long jump and softball throw. A non-competitive “Hershey Miniatures” race will allow those under 9 to participate in a 50-meter fun dash.
Tulsa Selected for National
Afterschool Program
Mayor Kathy Taylor announced last week that the City of Tulsa is one of eight cities in the Unites States selected to participate in the first phase of a National League of Cities (NLC) Program, “City Leaders Supporting Afterschool and A New Day of Learning.”
The partnership with NLC will assist Tulsa in the creation of a citywide system of support for young people.
Dog Days of Spring -
Irish Paws 2008
If you’re looking for a fun St. Patrick’s Day event with your dog (and who isn’t?), you needn’t look any further than “Irish Paws 2008.” A morning of outdoor games and activities focused around ‘man’s best friend’ at beautiful Hicks Park at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 15. Admission is free.
“This annual event has become a favorite for everyone who attends – dogs included,” describes Marci Joha, Park Manager for Hicks Recreation Center, 3443 S. Mingo Road. “In the past, some dogs came in costume, some just enjoyed the time outside in the park – but everyone has a lot of fun.”
Public Tours Animal
Welfare Facility
The Tulsa Animal Welfare Department hosted an open house at the facility last Tuesday, Feb.26, in support of Spay Day U.S.A., as well as in celebration of February as “It’s Hip To Snip” month.
Staff and volunteers at the facility, located at 3031 N. Erie Ave. in Tulsa, offered visitors an opportunity to learn about animal welfare issues facing our community and view the animals available for placement in new homes, as well as the chance to learn how they can become part of the spay/neuter movement.