Around Tulsa
Tulsa Zoo Welcomes Elephant Pair Billy and Tina With Open Arms

TULSA – There’s a big reason to smile at the Tulsa Zoo—two reasons, actually! Billy and Tina, the newest members of the zoo’s elephant family, have arrived safely from Los Angeles and are already settling into their new home.
The 26-hour journey from the Los Angeles Zoo went smoothly, thanks to months of training and preparation. Both elephants traveled calmly, enjoying snacks like hay, romaine, cantaloupe, and plenty of water during frequent breaks. The Tulsa Zoo team, working closely with the staff from L.A., made sure the trip was as stress-free as possible.
Now that they’re home, Billy and Tina are spending time together during their quarantine period inside the Elephant Preserve Barn. The decision to keep them together during this initial transition reflects a shared commitment by both zoos to support the elephants’ social needs and overall wellbeing. According to the zoo, the pair could be heard trumpeting joyfully as they reunited.
Quarantine is a standard step for all new arrivals. While Billy and Tina may not be fully visible to guests just yet, visitors might catch a glimpse of them getting to know their surroundings. This period also allows the elephants to begin observing and adjusting to other members of the Tulsa herd from a safe distance.
Over the coming weeks, Billy and Tina will begin bonding with their new care team and, eventually, the rest of the herd. Tulsa Zoo staff are excited to continue providing individualized, expert care, carrying on the legacy started in Los Angeles.
As always, the Tulsa Zoo thanks its community of supporters for helping make moments like this possible. Stay tuned for more updates as Billy and Tina take the next steps in their journey.
Around Tulsa
Philbrook to host Day of Play event

TULSA — The Philbrook Museum of Art is inviting families from across the Tulsa area to let their imaginations run wild during its upcoming Day of Play event on Tuesday, June 11, from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Held in honor of the International Day of Play, the event will transform the museum and its gardens into a giant playground, packed with activities designed for visitors of all ages. From bubble stations and large-scale building blocks to art-making, gaming, giveaways, and more, the celebration promises a joyful, hands-on experience for the whole family.
“All ages will feel like a kid again,” the museum shared in its announcement. “We’re celebrating the joy of play in every corner of Philbrook.”
The event is being held in partnership with Family & Children’s Services of Tulsa and Youth Services of Tulsa, further reinforcing the museum’s mission to build community connections through creativity, fun, and exploration.
Admission details and event guidelines can be found on the Philbrook Museum’s website and social media platforms.
Around Tulsa
QUICK TRIPS: Explore These Five Family-Friendly State Parks Within an Hour of Tulsa
Keystone State Park – Sand Springs
Just 20 minutes west of Tulsa, Keystone State Park is a local favorite with beautiful lake views, sandy swim beaches, and well-maintained hiking trails. Families can fish, boat, or picnic, and the park offers both RV and tent camping as well as cozy cabins.
Sequoyah State Park – Hulbert
Located on the shores of Fort Gibson Lake, Sequoyah State Park is a full-service destination about 50 minutes from Tulsa. The park features horseback riding, golf, nature trails, and the popular Three Forks Nature Center. The state’s largest park lodge, with a pool and dining, makes it a great spot for weekend getaways.
Sequoyah Bay State Park – Wagoner
Just under an hour from Tulsa, Sequoyah Bay is perfect for water-loving families. The marina and multiple boat ramps make it easy to enjoy Fort Gibson Lake, and the campgrounds offer a peaceful retreat for unplugged weekends.
Greenleaf State Park – Braggs
About an hour southeast of Tulsa, Greenleaf is one of Oklahoma’s most family-friendly parks, with scenic hiking trails, a kids’ fishing pond, paddleboat rentals, and even a swing bridge. It’s a great choice for active families and young explorers.
Lake Oologah – Oologah
While not a state park, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers recreation area at Lake Oologah offers a similar experience—right at Tulsa’s doorstep. The park includes swimming areas, shaded campsites, and the Will Rogers Birthplace Ranch just up the road for a bit of history with your hike.
Whether you’re looking to hit the trails, cast a fishing line, or just enjoy a picnic with a view, these parks offer something for every Tulsa family. So pack a cooler, grab the sunscreen, and discover the outdoor adventures waiting just beyond the city.
Around Tulsa
Celebrate Gardening at “Soil to Sun” Summer Garden Event on June 6

TULSA — The Tulsa Health Department invites the community to dig in and celebrate the joys of growing your own food at the “Soil to Sun” Summer Garden Event on Friday, June 6, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the North Regional Health & Wellness Center, located at 56th Street North and MLK Jr. Boulevard.
This free, come-and-go event is a celebration of garden education and healthy living. Guests can learn how to start and maintain a garden, explore the benefits of growing their own food, and participate in a variety of engaging activities.
🌱 Event Highlights:
- Porch & container gardening presentations
- Garden education booths
- FREE healthy lunch
- Hands-on gardening activities for all ages
The event is open to the public and designed for everyone from curious beginners to experienced gardeners. Whether you’re looking to grow a few herbs on your porch or start a backyard garden, the “Soil to Sun” event provides resources, tips, and inspiration to help you get started.
Those planning to attend are encouraged to register online at tulsa-health.org/forms/community-garden-volunteer-registration or by calling 918-255-5776.
Organizers hope the event will inspire more people across Tulsa to engage in sustainable gardening practices and take steps toward better health and self-sufficiency.
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