The windows in downtown Claremore are featuring red and white displays with Christmas trees and Santa Claus images. Wreaths have started the line the streets, and a faint ‘ho, ho ho’ can be heard in the distance.

Brace yourself. Christmas is coming.

Downtown Claremore starts the holiday season off every year with Dickens on the Boulevard, a Victorian-themed Christmas festival right in the heart of town. The 21st annual Dickens on the Boulevard starts at 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday night (Nov. 17-18).

“Thousands of community members come out each year to start the holiday season with us,” said Jessica Jackson, Claremore Main Street director. “We love hosting this event, which is truly for the whole family – for the whole community – to enjoy together. It’s certainly a labor of love.”

The two-night event is jam packed with Victorian and Christmas activities and culminates each night with the Victorian stroll and street dance. Rogers County and surrounding residents of all ages join one another in the streets of downtown Claremore to dance the night away.

Dickens on the Boulevard is hosted by Claremore Main Street. RCB Bank is a major sponsor of the event while Wantland Law Firm is the saloon sponsor. Supporting sponsors are Price & Sears Law Firm, Inola Castings, Claremore Chiropractic, Three-Twenty on Main, Kevin Fortna, CPA, and Claremore Industrial and Economic Development Authority.

What’s new this year?

While keeping all the traditional favorites, the Dickens on the Boulevard planning committee has been hard at work creating more of an atmosphere for guests to this year’s event.

“With such a long-running event, it’s important to us to continue to add new features each year,” Jackson said. “From fencing to a new tour to a silent auction, we have some fresh, fun activities for 2017!”

The Victorian Fencing Society will be in Claremore both nights of the event, taking the stage for a demonstration at 7:15 p.m. Society members will be around after the performance to answer questions and show additional techniques.

There will be a silent auction on Friday night only at the Claremore Main Street office, 419 W. Will Rogers Blvd. Proceeds of the auction go to benefit the continued revitalization and beautification of downtown Claremore.

Auction items include tea set baskets, Christmas decorations, a wine basket, a Main Street basket with $50 in free shopping, a coffee basket and a Young Living Basket. The auction begins at 6 p.m. and closes out at 8 p.m.

Claremore Main Street is also selling limited edition ornaments that feature the Will Rogers Hotel, Will Rogers statue, railroad tracks and Route 66. The ornament says “Downtown Claremore” and “Season’s Greetings 2017.”

Ornaments are on sale now and during Dickens on the Boulevard at the Main Street office; The Grapevine, 404 W. Will Rogers Blvd.; and the Willow Tree Mall, 409 W. Will Rogers Blvd., for $10 while supplies last.

Also new this year is the Historic Walk, an afternoon tour that takes guests from the Will Rogers Hotel to the Belvidere Mansion for a one-hour, quarter-mile storytelling adventure.

The Walk is perfect for history buffs – both from Claremore and not – as the tour guide is guaranteed to tell stories about Claremore characters never before heard.

The tour begins at 2 p.m. Nov. 18 at the Will Rogers Hotel. Tickets are limited and pre-purchasing is encouraged. Tickets can be purchased at the Claremore Main Street office for $8 during regular business hours.

In addition to the Historic Walk, the Tales from the Top evening tours are back this year with brand new plays. The Tales from the Top tours include history on five of the downtown Claremore buildings, a short play and a chance to explore the upper floors of those buildings, often with only a flashlight.

The Tales from the Top tours begin each night at 6 p.m. Tickets are $12 and advance purchase is encouraged. They are available at the Claremore Main Street office.

What’s Victorian themed?

Throughout the evening, guests will be greeted by actors in a “living window,” street urchins and street performers all in character.

“This is Victorian-themed festival,” Jackson said. “We take that seriously and really want to make our visitors feel like they’ve traveled back in time.”

Guests are encouraged to wear Victorian-era attire to the event, which hosts a Victorian Costume Contest each year.

Contestants can check in to be judged between 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Thrift Harbor at 316 W. Will Rogers Blvd. The judges will review the entire ensemble for authenticity.

Winners will be announced each night at 8:20 p.m. at the stage in the following categories: Adult Couple, Adult Male, Adult Female, Young Male, Young Female, Male Child and Female Child.

The Territorial Marshals will host territorial re-enactment in the center block of downtown at 7:45 p.m. Friday night, while the Tri-State Gunfighters will have an old west shootout at the same time Saturday.

Horse and carriage rides are available to take visitors from the downtown core to the Claremore Museum of History, the Belvidere Mansion and back to the boulevard. Rides are $5 for adults, $3 for children 6-12 and free for youngsters five and under.

To whet your whistle, the Wantland Public House – an old-west saloon – will be at 512 W. Will Rogers Blvd., serving up sarsaparilla, water, peanuts and a card game called faro. There will also be a selfie station in the saloon.

Those who come hungry can enjoy dinner from the traditional chuckwagon for campfire favorites. Additionally, the Masonic Lodge and Boy Scouts will both be selling food.

Open for business those nights downtown will be the Pink House in the Belvidere Mansion, Boomarang Diner, Dot’s Café, She Brews Coffee House, Main Street Tavern and Frosted.

What’s Christmas themed?

No Christmas celebration would be complete without a visit with Santa Claus himself. Santa will be available for pictures at the Cranberry Merchant, 417 W. Will Rogers Blvd. Pictures are $5 and can be downloaded about week after the event.

After visiting Santa, children should stop by Santa’s Workshop inside Crystal Pistol Boutique & Mom & Pop Ceramic Shoppe, 323 W. Will Rogers Blvd., to paint their own Christmas ornament keepsake for $5.

Along down the street, guests will be transported back to Biblical times with the Living Nativity by Shepherd’s Cross. The Living Nativity includes several live animals as well as Mary, Joseph and the Three Wise Men.

On the stage at 6:30 p.m. Friday night, the Choir Company will perform Christmas classics to entertain the crowds.

“Christmas is woven throughout this event,” Jackson said. “You won’t be able to leave without singing carols and feeling in the Christmas spirit.”

Naturally, holiday shopping is a must at Dickens on the Boulevard. Most of the downtown stores will be open throughout the event and many participate in Dickens Dollars – a downtown shopping giveaway.

Dickens Dollars are gift certificates that can be used like cash at participating stores. For a chance to win some of the $800 in Dickens Dollars given away, guests can visit any or all of the 20 participating stores. [Dickens Dollars instructions]

Participating stores will have a sign on their door, window or at the register. One ticket per adult is available free of purchase from each of the stores. Some stores offer additional tickets for purchases.

Tickets should be dropped off at the Gold Box on the stage before 8:15 p.m. each night. Five $75 packets of Dickens Dollars will be given out for free to winners each night. The additional $50 will be part of Friday’s silent auction.

In addition to the stores, several craft vendors will be set up in the 500 and the 300 block to sell items you won’t be able to find anywhere else.

Four local authors will be set up in Boarding House Books, 300 W. Will Rogers Blvd., for author book signings. Authors will have their books for sale during the event. The local authors are Linda Harkey, Linda Trout, Will Kennebrew and Karen Willis.

How can I learn more?

Join the Facebook event!

Interested parties can also get more information on Claremore Main Street’s website or by calling 918-341-5881.

Downtown Claremore was mobbed again.

Mobbed by a generous group of Claremore folks who are dedicated to shopping local and benefitting the community’s nonprofits. It was all part of Claremore Main Street’s Cash Mob.

Cash Mob is bimonthly shopping ‘mob’ where participants gather and then, as a group, “mob” a downtown store chosen at random, spending $20 in that store. Hundreds of dollars are pumped into the local economy in 45 minutes.

The mob also benefits a local nonprofit, usually voted on by the attendees. But in October, Cash Mob went to Second Impressions, a resale shop that directly benefits Safenet Services, a local women’s shelter.

Since the business was already a nonprofit, 100 percent of the money spent directly went to benefit all Safenet does for Claremore families.

“What a boost for Second Impressions,” said Donna Grabow, Safenet Executive Director. “With that boost, we are able to have transportation for residents of shelter and help with supplies for support groups. Talk about a major win-win.”

Safenet Services helps families of domestic violence, abuse and sexual assault with a safe haven to live, heal and thrive. It was established in 1991, and in the last 26 years has provided shelter and safety for more than 3,200 abused women and their children.

Second Impressions, 106 N. Cherokee, is a trio of stores that have furniture, books, knick knacks and boutique clothing, often designer clothing never before worn.

Grabow is also a “mob” shopper, and she has found some of her favorite stores through Cash Mob. She said the bimonthly activity turns out to be a win for all – the shoppers, the stores and the nonprofits.

“Cash Mob is the greatest,” she said. “Spending $20 in local shops is a blast. Sometimes we just don’t take the time to go explore, and this is an opportunity to do just that with a great group of shoppers. The local businesses get a real boost in sales for the day. Plus, many new customers may be found!”

The Cash Mob was sponsored by Claremore Industrial and Economic Development Authority.

The next Cash Mob is scheduled for Dec. 5 at 5:30 p.m., and is sponsored by Kevin Fortna, CPA.

To participate in Cash Mob in the future, please fill out the form below.

History buffs and story enthusiasts have two tour options to enjoy this November in conjunction with downtown Claremore’s Dickens on the Boulevard.

Dickens on the Boulevard is a Victorian-themed Christmas festival right in the heart of downtown on Nov. 17-18 now in its 21st year in Claremore.

Guests have an opportunity to enjoy two separate tours as part of the annual event – the Tales from the Top tours and the afternoon Historic Walk.

As one of the activities, the Tales from the Top tours have delighted guests for years. The tours will be all new this year, with never-before-seen plays in the upper floors of five of historic downtown Claremore buildings.

After the play, guests may have an opportunity to walk through the upper floor with a flashlight to see what pieces of history may be left over from previous tenants.

The tours begin promptly at 6 p.m. each night and last about one hour.

The tours are open to children, but some of the upper floors do not have electricity and are very dark. Parental discretion is advised. The tour includes several flights of stairs.

Tales from the Top tour tickets are $12 and should be purchased in advance at the Claremore Main Street office, 419 W. Will Rogers Blvd. Tickets are on sale now and are limited.

In addition to the Tales from the Top tours, Claremore Main Street is adding an afternoon Historic Walk on Nov. 18 only.

The Historic Walk takes guests from the Will Rogers Hotel to the Belvidere Mansion on a one-hour entertaining journey through the history of both the downtown and Claremore as a city.

Guests will hear stories about former Claremore residents, histories about the buildings and fun facts about town.

The Walk is just less than a half-mile and comfortable shoes are encouraged.

Tickets for the Historic Walk are $8 and are limited as well. The tours will be at 1 p.m. and 2 p.m.

Downtown Claremore is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Dickens on the Boulevard starts each night at 6 p.m. It is free and open to the public but food and some activities do cost.

The event includes Victorian era clothing and costume contest, a fencing demonstration, “living windows,” artisans, traditional chuckwagon fare and street ‘urchins’ with the night capping off with the stroll and street dance.

Santa Claus will be posing with pictures, and Santa’s Workshop will give guests an opportunity to paint an ornament. Both activities are $5 each. There also will be carolers and a free living nativity scene by Shepherd’s Cross in addition to a horse and carriage ride to the Belvidere Mansion and Claremore Museum of History.

Those looking for more of a wild west feel can enjoy the annual shootout each night at 7:45 p.m. with the Territorial Marshals will take the stage on Friday and the Tri-State Gunfighters performing the re-enactment on Saturday. Guests can whet their whistle at the saloon – Wantland Pub House – for sarsaparilla and a chance to play faro with the Territorial Marshals or take a photo with the saloon girls.

Stores stay open during the event. Shoppers can qualify for the Dickens Dollars drawing by visiting any of the participating stores. Dickens Dollars are gift certificates that spend like cash at participating stores. There are multiple drawings each night at 8:15 p.m.

For more information, visit us online or call 918-341-5881.

Traditions run deep in Claremore, and one of the town’s favorite is kicking off the holiday season with Dickens on the Boulevard in downtown Claremore.

For the last 21 years, Claremore has celebrated holiday with the Victorian-themed Christmas festival right in the heart of downtown. Donning historic attire, the streets of downtown are flooded with shoppers enjoying the crisp winter air, holiday music, shopping and re-enactors.

Dickens on the Boulevard brings all that back this year on Nov. 17 and 18, starting at 6 p.m. each night.

“This is such a fun event,” said Jessica Jackson, Claremore Main Street director. “It’s brings the 1800s into 2017 with historic attire, hand crafted goodies and the stroll and street dance, while also starting the holiday season with Christmas shopping, Santa Claus and carolers.”

Walking the three blocks of Claremore’s historic downtown, visitors will be greeted by actors in a “living window,” street urchins and even a chuckwagon feast. A carriage ride to the Belvidere Mansion and back and a saloon – Wantland Public House — with sarsaparilla and a chance to play cards with the Territorial Marshals give guests even more of that Victorian spirit.

Gearing up for Christmas, Santa Claus will be on site in the Cranberry Merchant, 417 W. Will Rogers Blvd., for photos for $5, and just down the street will be a living nativity by Shepherd’s Cross.

New this year, a Victorian fencing demonstration will take place in the middle block at 7:15 p.m. both nights. A group from Texas will exhibit fencing technique straight from the Victorian era.

“We are thrilled to add the fencing demonstration this year,” Jackson said. “The crew will be on hand after their show to teach guests their skills.”

Following the demonstration, the annual shootout will take place at 7:45 p.m. The Territorial Marshals will take the stage on Friday while the Tri-State Gunfighters will perform the re-enactment on Saturday.

Each year, the event features a Victorian costume contest with categories for different ages and genders as well as for the best dressed couple.

Following the costume awards presentation is the festival’s nightcap – the Victorian stroll and street dance. The stroll is the perfect opportunity for young and old to get together on the street and enjoy the old-fashioned entertainment.

“Seeing hundreds of people gather in the streets for the dance is inspiring,” Jackson said. “That sense of community and togetherness – it reminds us of the past and captures the Christmas spirit better than anything else I can think of.”

Stores stay open during the event. Shoppers can qualify for the Dickens Dollars drawing by visiting each of the participating stores and asking for their complimentary ticket. Additional tickets may be available with purchases.

Dickens Dollars are gift certificates that spend like cash at participating stores. There are multiple drawings each night. Winners receive Dickens Dollars, which are good to spend through Christmas Eve.

The Tales from the Top tours will be all new this year. It is a ticketed tour that takes guests through the upper floors of five downtown Claremore buildings. A short never-before-seen play will take place in each one, and guests may have an opportunity to poke around the 100-year-old buildings.

The tour begins at 6 p.m. and last about an hour. Tickets are $12 and are limited. They can be purchased beginning on Nov. 1 at the Claremore Main Street office, 419 W. Will Rogers Blvd.

Adding a new tour this year, Claremore Main Street announces an afternoon Historic Walk, which takes guests from the Will Rogers Hotel to the Belvidere Mansion while relaying aspects of Claremore’s history and telling stories that most Claremore residents don’t know.

“The Historic Walk is something we wanted to add this year for those history buffs in town,” Jackson said. “We guarantee each person will learn something new about the town we call home, and about our downtown, which is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.”

Tickets for the Historic Walk are $8 and are limited as well. The tours will be at 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 18. Tickets go on sale at the Main Street office Nov. 1.

“This might be our best Dickens on the Boulevard yet,” Jackson said. “We’ve added new features while keeping all the activities Claremore has grown to love. There’s so much to do, you really might have to come both days!”

Dickens on the Boulevard is hosted by Claremore Main Street. RCB Bank is a major sponsor of the event while Wantland Law Firm is the saloon sponsor. Supporting sponsors are Price & Sears Law Firm, Claremore Chiropractic, Three-Twenty on Main, Kevin Fortna, CPA, and Claremore Industrial and Economic Development Authority.

For more information, visit us online, call 918-341-5881 or email .

The 2017 Leading Ladies Award winners.

Seven Claremore women were honored with the title Leading Lady when they were recipients of the third annual Leading Ladies Awards, presented this year at the Leading Ladies Expo by News on 6’s LeAnne Taylor earlier this month.

The women were: Rising Star, Caitlyn Campbell; Leader in Health, Dava Baldridge; Behind the Scenes, Kim Prock; Community Supporter, Cindy Bissett; Nonprofit Leadership, Lisa Saylor; Business Leadership, Sarah Fiegener; and Leading Lady of the Year, Jill Ferenc.

Each woman was honored with a special plaque and a custom Rustic Cuff with the words “Leading Lady” on it.

The awards were presented by KOTV News on 6’s LeAnne Taylor, a local news anchor and breast cancer survivor. Prior to the ceremony, Taylor gave a brief talk about her three-decade history as a news anchor in Tulsa.

“It was an honor to have LeAnne Taylor present the awards this year,” said Jessica Jackson, director of Claremore Main Street. “All our Leading Ladies were incredibly deserving. We were pleased with the quality of nominations we received.”

The Leading Ladies Expo was held on Oct. 12 at the Claremore Conference Center. It featured shopping, massages, hors d’oeuvres from local restaurants, wine samples, a health seminar by Utica Park Clinic and our presenting sponsor Hillcrest Hospital, a selfie station, hand massages and a lot of great door prizes in addition to the awards.

The Expo and awards are hosted annually by the Claremore Chamber of Commerce and Claremore Main Street. An out-of-town panel judged the nominations.

Major sponsors of this year’s event were A&B Bail Bonds, Autumn Wood, BancFirst, Carol’s Place Hair & Nail Salon, Northeast Tech, The Pink House, RCB Bank, Tulsa Federal Credit Union and Wallace for Life. Media partner was Values Magazine.

The Chamber and Main Street are both nonprofit organizations designed to better improve the quality of life in Rogers County and enhance business success in the area.

Rising Star: Caitlyn Campbell, RSU Student and Volunteers for Youth volunteer

Caitlyn Campbell is on her way to big things in life.

Currently a Rogers State University sophomore, Campbell is committed to staying involved in the community in addition to her full-time student status as a business administration major. She is active on campus with the RSU Young Professionals and the Honors Program.

Additionally, Campbell gives her time to the PAL Program at Volunteers for Youth, where she has been engaged in the organization’s U-Turn Academy as a tutor and has volunteered to help at their events.

“Her boundless energy and heart for service demonstrate the qualities of a rising star in our Claremore community,” one nomination said.

Leader in Health: Dava Baldridge, Chief Nursing Officer at Hillcrest Claremore

Dava Baldridge, like many other leading ladies, puts others before herself.

She has dedicated her life to improving the health of others as the Chief Nursing Officer and Operating Officer at Hillcrest Claremore Hospital.

She is known to go above and beyond with nursing care for the patients in Claremore, and is always around to lend a hand to a patient’s family in need. She has served in Claremore for more than two decades and is involved in several state and national associations for nursing.

The care Baldridge and others at the hospital give the patients earned Hillcrest Claremore a position among the top 10 percent in the nation for patient safety. In 2012, she was named the Ardent CNO of the Year and three years previous, she received the Community Health Systems CNO of the Year.

Behind the Scenes: Kim Prock, Thrift Harbor District Manager

Kim Prock exemplifies her leadership skills by going above and beyond in her job duties to continue to improve her organization.

As now the District Manager for Thrift Harbor, Prock took on a new challenge – a new life purpose – when she decided to help Hope Harbor’s Children’s Home open their first thrift store in 2011. Having now opened three stores, she has brought experience in retail sales, customer relations and volunteer recruitment.

Always leading others, Prock also serves as a mentor to many other women in the community to seek their greater potential and take pride in the efforts.

“She is a light to the community,” one nomination said. “Her presence alone exemplifies compassion with confidence … Kim accomplishes everything she puts her mind to, and we have all the confidence that she will continue to be the real driving force behind the great success of Thrift Harbor.”

Community Supporter: Cindy Bissett, Claremore Main Street retired Director and volunteer, Chamber of Commerce volunteer

Leadership is action – not simply a title or position, which is something Cindy Bissett takes to heart.

After more than 10 years leading the efforts in downtown revitalization, Bissett’s passion and community spirit is reflected in the thriving and bustling district Claremore’s downtown has become once again.

She used her conviction to inspire others, leading Board members, volunteers and others in Main Street’s vision. In addition to her more-than-full-time workload, Cindy would volunteer for other organizations and at other events.

Now retired, Cindy’s still working tirelessly at community events.

“Her heart continues to reflect someone who has a spirit of community,” one nomination said. “Cindy is consistently involved: working tirelessly at community events, leading by example to those who come in contact with her gregarious nature and joyful attitude.”

Nonprofit Leadership: Lisa Saylor, Mercy Chefs Director

Lisa Saylor shows herself to be selfless, giving up comforts to help those in need.

She is the Managing Chef for Mercy Chefs, an emergency relief organization that helps provide permanent kitchens and water purification systems for communities affected by disaster. She travels to areas in need and serves food those who are stricken with tragedy.

She and her husband have even re-purposed a bus to save on travel expenses to continue her calling. After Hurricane Harvey hit the Texas coast, and after Irma devastated Florida, Lisa was there with helping after helping of compassion, love and service.

“She deserves this award because she would do anything for anyone, Oklahoma or elsewhere,” a nomination said.

Truly showcasing her selfless attitude, Saylor was unable to attend the Leading Ladies Awards as she had been called off to serve in California for wildfire relief.

Business Leadership – Sarah Fiegener, Rye Design Owner and Musician’s Haven Director

Sarah Fiegener is an engineer by trade and a musician by heart.

In addition to serving the community through a nonprofit she runs with her husband called Musician’s Haven, Fiegener is the owner of Rye Design, a custom automation equipment manufacturer in Oklahoma.  Her innovative approaches are used across the nation to improve efficiency and safety in manufacturing.

Despite her talents being sought after nationwide, Fiegener dedicates her free time to her home in Claremore. She volunteers at West Bend Green, Bluegrass & Chili Festival, ZipperQ and with the Claremore Collective fundraisers while also supporting local musical artists with Musicians Haven.

“Prior to her efforts behind Musicians Haven and their community music center, Claremore did not have nearly the cultural opportunities she has led,” one nomination said, “Sarah’s many efforts show her deep love for Claremore, while leading with grace.”

Leading Lady of the Year – Jill Ferenc, City Planner

The Leading Lady of the Year is someone who exemplifies all the qualities of a Leading Lady, both in the workplace and outside of it. Jill Ferenc received a number of nomination from people she works for, people who work for her, colleagues and community members. She is clearly an asset to many.

Ferenc is the City Planner in Claremore, working often behind the scenes to improve the community she calls home. She treats everyone the same – whether it’s a multimillion dollar developer or an average citizen with a backyard project – Jill gives them her full devotion

“She can make you feel that you are the most important person around because she takes the time to really listen to our needs,” one nomination said.

She’s involved in numerous organizations in addition to her full-time job and role as a mother of a toddler, including Claremore Main Street, Grand Gateway, Claremore Collective, Rogers County Transportation Organization Policy Board and Oklahoma Chapter of the American Planning Association, of which she’s secretary.

“She lead from the front of the pack but pushes her employees to receive the recognition,” another nomination said. “Jill is the type of leader who does everything for others and wants nothing in return.”

“She has a can-do attitude and is tenacious in her dedication to our City,” another nomination letter stated. “She is a true leader, a true lady, and a great friend, to both myself and this City.”

Guys and ghouls can wrap up the Food Truck Thursday season with Nightmare on Main Street, celebrating All Hallows’ Eve a few days early on Oct. 26.

The monthly event features food, live music, shopping and fun for all ages from 6-9 p.m. In October, a record more than 20 food trucks will line the streets while attendees can enjoy live music from local artist Matt Mason and do some late-night shopping.

Additionally, there will be a free Kids Zone by Cedar Point Church, a 4H Cupcake Decorating Contest at 320 on Main and beer from the Main Street Tavern.

Food Truck Thursday is always free and open to the public, but food and some activities do cost extra.

Visitors should come in costume to participate in the free costume contest. Contestants in three age groups will be judged based on Most Authentic, Most Creative, Most Original and Best Effort. The age groups are 0-5 years old, 6-12 years old and 13 and older.

“Last year’s costume contest was a huge hit. We were overwhelmed by the quality of the costumes, so we decided to do things a bit differently this year,” said Jessica Jackson, executive director of Claremore Main Street. “A panel of three judges will look over each costume and award four winners per age group based on different costume qualities.”

Judging will take place in the 500 block between 6-7 p.m. Winners will be announced on stage at 7:30 p.m. Costumes should be appropriate for a family-friendly event.

“We are excited to see what Claremore brings out this year,” Jackson added.

Many of the stores will have candy for trick-or-treaters who come by in costume. Other Halloween-themed activities will take place as well.

The Kids Zone by Cedar Point Church is completely free to attendees, but parents are asked to watch their children while they enjoy the games and fun activities. There will be pumpkin putt putt, ball toss and witch pitch games in addition to free snacks.

The Kids Zone has moved to the 500 block at the corner of Missouri Avenue and Will Rogers Boulevard to make room for more food trucks down the center of the street.

TLC 4-H is hosting a Cupcake Decorating Contest at 320 on Main beginning at 6 p.m. Pre-entry is required and available at Crystal Pistol Boutique/Mom & Pop Ceramics Shoppe, 323 W. Will Rogers Blvd.

The cost for individuals is $5 and teams and families compete for $8. Cupcakes, icing and tools provided. For more information, call Donna Daley at 918-613-1501.

Food trucks include Alpha Grill Food Truck, ​The Bacon Food Truck, Breenie’Z Pretzels, Curbside Comfort, ​C&J Concessions, Dorothy’s Wiches, Hoops Philly Truck, Hot Mess BBQ, ​Kona Ice, La Hermosa Taco Truck, Maw & Paw Kettle Corn, ​Moose Trax, Not Your Grandma’s Cupcakes, Pie in the Sky, ​Pot Lickers, Purple People Feeders, Raphael’s Southern BBQ, Ropin Flamingo Italian Ice, Taqueria El Jarocho and Wild Al’s.

Food Truck Thursday runs monthly on the final Thursday of the month from May to October. This will be the final one of season.

The monthly event is hosted by the Downtown Claremore Merchants Association and Claremore Main Street, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the revitalization of the downtown district and reigniting the area as the social core of our community.

For more information, visit our webpage or join the Facebook event.

The result are in – seven local women are considered Leading Ladies.

Seven Claremore women have been recognized as a winner for the 3rd annual Leading Ladies Awards and will be presented with a special plaque and custom Rustic Cuff at the Leading Ladies Expo on Oct. 12.

The Leading Ladies Expo is hosted from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Claremore Conference Center at 1400 Country Club Drive. It features shopping, massages, hors d’oeuvres from local restaurants, wine samples, a health seminar by presenting sponsor Hillcrest Hospital, a selfie station, hand massages and a lot of great door prizes in addition to the awards.

“We were blown away with the number of women nominated for the seven categories this year,” said Jessica Jackson, director of Claremore Main Street, one of the event’s hosts. “We are excited to get the opportunity to announce the winners in advance this year. These awards, which honor the deserving Rogers County women, are my favorite part about this event.”

Winners were selected by an out-of-county panel. The winners are:

• Rising Star – Caitlyn Campbell, RSU Student and Volunteers for Youth volunteer
• Behind the Scenes – Kim Prock, Thrift Harbor District Manager
• Business Leadership – Sarah Fiegener, Rye Design Owner and Musician’s Haven Director
• Community Supporter – Cindy Bissett, Claremore Main Street retired Director and volunteer, Chamber of Commerce volunteer
• Leader in Health – Dava Baldridge, Chief Nursing Officer at Hillcrest Claremore
• Nonprofit Leadership – Lisa Saylor, Mercy Chefs Managing Chef
• Leading Lady of the Year – Jill Ferenc, City Planner

The awards will be presented at 7:45 p.m. by KOTV News on 6’s LeAnne Taylor, a local news anchor and breast cancer survivor. The winners were announced live on the Facebook event on Sept. 28.

Advance tickets are on sale now at the Claremore Chamber of Commerce, 419 W. Will Rogers Blvd., and at Carol’s Place Hair and Nail Salon, 774 ½ S. Lynn Riggs Blvd. Tickets will also be sold at the door.

General admission tickets are $10 and include hors d’oeuvres, shopping, the health seminar, most door prizes and standing-room only for the Leading Ladies Awards. VIP tickets are $25 and include a special door prize and a seat at a table for easier eating and more comfortable viewing of the awards ceremony.

Corporate tables are available in advance only for $250.

In addition nearly 10 of local restaurants and eateries offering small portions for tasting, there will be about 20 exhibitors for shopping, information and giveaways.

A selfie station will provide a way to capture all the fun with gal pals. Northeast Tech Cosmetology Students will have free hand massages all night long, and Dr. Lacy Crissup will be doing free eye health screenings as well.

At 6 p.m., the Ask the Experts by Hillcrest and Utica Park Clinic will feature “Healthy Joints: Nutrition, Exercise and Treatment” by Mary Ferraro, Orthopedic Nurse Practitioner, APRN-CNP, and Brooke McIntyre, Clinical Dietitian. The seminar will last about one hour.

Door prizes will be given out periodically through night to attendees. Everyone with an admission ticket can enter to win. Grand Prize Drawings will be done at 8:45 p.m., and guests must be present to win.

Smaller door prizes include local gift cards, accessories and Rustic Cuffs, while bigger prizes are experience based. Larger prizes include a wine-and-painting night at Studio B Artworks for 10 friends, a night stay at the River Spirit Casino, a night for seven friends at The Escape Tulsa, a professional photoshoot and a full makeover by Carol’s Place.

The VIP ticket holders will be entered all the prize drawings as well as a special drawing just for the VIPs. The prize is a Nutcracker Date Night – tickets and dinner for two.

There will also be a special door prize for attendees of the Ask the Experts seminar, and Hillcrest Hospital is also giving out a designer purse in a drawing of those who visit their booth.

Door prizes are made possible by Ladies Loot sponsors Speedy Lube, Dr. Melinda Steelmon and Stephanie Ross, Solid Rock Realtors, Morgan Vanover & US Mortgage.

Hillcrest Hospital will provide a golf cart to escort guests from their parking spot to the event door.

Major sponsors of this year’s event are A&B Bail Bonds, Autumn Wood, BancFirst, Carol’s Place Hair & Nail Salon, Northeast Tech, The Pink House, RCB Bank, Tulsa Federal Credit Union and Wallace for Life. Media partner is Values Magazine.

The event is hosted by the Claremore Area Chamber of Commerce and Claremore Main Street, nonprofit organizations designed to better improve the quality of life in Rogers County and enhance business success in the area.

For additional information about the show or to register as a vendor, please call the Claremore Chamber of Commerce at (918) 341-2818 or Main Street at (918) 341-5881.

With just weeks to go before the 10th annual Dickens of a Ride, the family-friendly ride is proving to be a popular as ever.

The ride, kicking off at 8 a.m. Oct. 7 from Gazebo Park in downtown Claremore, is perfect for riders of all ages and skill levels. There are seven distances ranging from seven to 100 miles.

Register now!

“We’ve had riders from seven years old up to late 70s,” said Jessica Jackson, Claremore Main Street Executive Director. “It’s truly a ride for everyone.”

The Lazy Lake Loop is perfect for families. Other distances include 18, 30, 50, 62, 76 and 100-mile routes.

Registration for all distances is $30. Riders can register online prior to the event or in person during packet pickup/registration. Packet pickup/registration is Oct. 5 from 5-7 p.m. at Bike-About Bicycles, 300 W. Will Rogers Blvd., or ride morning beginning at 6 a.m. at Gazebo Park.

Pre-order of the long-sleeve t-shirt sales ended Sept. 1, but additional shirts will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis at packet pickup for $20.

The ride includes well-supplied rest stops and SAG and mechanical support through 5 p.m. as well as a map with instructions.

“The rest stops are one of the riders favorites parts about Dickens of a Ride,” Jackson said. “In addition to friendly volunteers, they’re complete with homemade baked goods and quirky road-side photo ops.”

The available routes, depending on the distance chosen by the rider, will take you through the scenic country side west of Claremore, through Oologah, then to the Claremore Lake area.

The longer routes will continue east of Claremore through rolling hillsides then back into Claremore from the East, ending the ride back at the start, downtown Claremore’s Gazebo Park.

More than 30 door prizes will be given out randomly to riders. Once returning, riders should visit the registration table at the finish line to see if they won and to claim their prize.

Riders will receive a goodie bag with discounts to local stores, handy information about Claremore and giveaways at packet pickup.

Boom-a-Rang Diner will provide a $3.99 rider breakfast special before the ride on Oct. 7.

The event is made possible thanks to a number of sponsors, especially Major Sponsor Bike-About Bicycles.

Supporting Sponsors are Play 2 Win, Kevin Fortna CPA, McDonald’s and Boom-a-Rang Diner. Rest Stop Sponsors include Boy Scouts, RSU Softball. The finish line, sponsored by RCB Bank.

Proceeds from the ride benefit Claremore Main Street, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the revitalization of the downtown district and reigniting the area as the social core of our community.

For more information or to register, find us online here. The official ride hashtag is #DickensRide2017.

PHOTO CREDIT: Levi Green, IFLY 107 Drone Photography

September signals the beginning of fall for many, and Claremore will be celebrating with a Downtown Fall Festival during Food Truck Thursday on Sept. 28.

The monthly event features food, live music, shopping and fun for all ages from 6-9 p.m. In September, more than 15 food trucks will line the streets while attendees can enjoy live music from Brent Giddens Band, do some late-night shopping and bid on a custom one-of-a-kind scarecrow to take home.

Additionally, there will be a free Kids Zone by Cedar Point Church, a dunk tank that benefits the Claremore High School Band, produce from the Claremore Farmers Market and beer from the Main Street Tavern.

Food Truck Thursday is always free and open to the public, but food and some activities do cost extra.

“Fall is my favorite time of the year, so I’m extra excited about this month’s Food Truck Thursday,” said Jessica Jackson, executive director of Claremore Main Street. “We’re also thrilled to partner with Studio B Artworks to host the first scarecrow contest and auction.”

Twenty-five local businesses signed up to participate in the contest, creating special, one-of-a-kind scarecrows. People are asked to vote for their favorites online with a “like” on the photos Studio B’s Facebook page’s scarecrow gallery. The Top 10 will be in a live auction at 7:30 p.m. at the stage in the 500 block. [SEE GALLERY]

The remainder will be in a silent auction between 6-8:15 p.m. that night. Winners must pick up and pay for their scarecrow on the night of the auction.

A portion of the proceeds will go to benefit Studio B’s programming to bring a love and appreciation of art to Claremore and Rogers County youth. The remainder will go to a downtown art project.

“The scarecrow auction is a fun addition to our event this month,” said Kathy Glover, Food Truck Thursday committee chairwoman and owner of the Cozy Cottage, 514 W. Will Rogers Blvd. “We’ve had a great time creating these scarecrows for Claremore to enjoy!”

The Kids Zone by Cedar Point Church is completely free to attendees, but parents are asked to watch their children while they enjoy the games and fun activities. There will be a bounce house, tic-tac-toe and bowling with pumpkins, corn toss, a photo area and free popcorn balls and juice.

The Kids Zone has moved to the 500 block at the corner of Missouri Avenue and Will Rogers Boulevard to make room for more food trucks down the center of the street.

Food trucks include Alpha Grill Food Truck, ​The Bacon Food Truck, Curbside Comfort, ​C&J Concessions, Dorothy’s Wiches, Hoops Philly Truck, Jen’s Java, ​Kona Ice, La Hermosa Taco Truck, Maw & Paw Kettle Corn, Moose Trax, ​My Baby Can Cook, Pie in the Sky, ​Polickers, Purple People Feeders, Ropin Flamingo Italian Ice and Taqueria El Jarocho.

Food Truck Thursday will run monthly on the final Thursday of the month. The final one will be October 26.

The monthly event is hosted by the Downtown Claremore Merchants Association and Claremore Main Street, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the revitalization of the downtown district and reigniting the area as the social core of our community.

Food vendors interested in participating anytime this season should e-mail Jeannie Smith at while nonfood vendors who would like to set up a booth should email Sheila Giannelli at . Space is extremely limited.

For more information, visit our website or join the Facebook event.

A month-long school supply drive by downtown Claremore merchants led to additional school supplies in the classroom for three local schools.

The Downtown Claremore Merchant’s Association hosted a school supply drive through the month of August, culminating at Food Truck Thursday Downtown School Daze on Aug. 31.

Shoppers were urged to donated school supplies to Claremore, Verdigris or Sequoyah schools, placing a donation in one of the three labeled boxes in each of the participating businesses. Many stores offered discounts to shoppers who donated.

Each school received an 18×18 box full of school supplies for classrooms or families who needed the help the most. Sheila Giannelli, president of the association and owner of Vintique Charm, delivered them.

“The schools were appreciative of the donations and were happy that we cared enough to host a month-long event to benefit the local schools,” Giannelli said.

Additionally, Food Truck Thursday Downtown School Daze included a dunk tank featuring elementary school principals and teachers. Fifty percent of the proceeds were donated back to the participating schools – Catalayah, Westside, Roosa, Claremont and Sequoyah – divided evenly into $50 per school.

The Downtown Claremore Merchants Association was established to unite the business professionals downtown to improve relations and support economic growth of downtown Claremore.