First Place - Open
Charles Brandt, Tulsa

Tulsa: the Heart of Green Country

Across the state of Oklahoma there are several areas that are known for natural beauty: the Wichita Mountains in the southwest, the wide open Prairie of the pan-handle, the many lakes of the south east and the lush green hills of north eastern Oklahoma which is commonly referred to as Green Country. In the center of Green Country rests a city that has a storied past and a promising future. A city that adds life and man-made beauty to a region already filled with natural beauty: Tulsa, Oklahoma.

The over all picture in this collage is a view of the Tulsa downtown from the west bank of the Arkansas River. This single picture covers almost all bases of the Hideaway collage theme. Clearly seen in this picture are the many high-rise buildings of the downtown where we travel to and from almost daily to perform our various occupations. Each of us doing a unique job but building a city together. Across the top of the collage we see many of the industries and businesses that call Tulsa their home. Some date back years other decades. On the left side of the collage stands a large high-rise tower which many people in Tulsa call home. This residential tower creates a unique landmark in the Tulsa skyline. We can also find several churches scattered throughout the down town area. Faith is very important to many Oklahomans and we can see the many steeples edging above the tree line. Along the east bank of the Arkansas River stretches Riverside park where thousands come to enjoy the beautiful views and weather of the metro area. Running, skating, biking, rugby, soccer and disc-golf are a few of the activities that take place around the many playgrounds and green spaces of the park. The park also hosts several events and festivals through out the year. In the foreground of this picture we see the Arkansas River which has mother nature's gift to Tulsa through out its history. It brings life to the region both actually and figuratively. With this life comes growth and Tulsa is a growing city with industries that have been a part of Tulsa's history and its future. Growing with people that call Tulsa home and growing with events and activities that we all enjoy.

Just as the Arkansas and many other rivers and creeks aid in the beauty of the surrounding hills, Tulsa adds life to the people that live there. Giving them the fundamental elements for them to grow pumping life into the city. Tulsa, the heart of Green Country.