History of The Tulsa Ornament | ||||||
Since 1985, a great many Tulsans have been collecting and enjoying a unique Ornament depicting various Tulsa landmarks, cultural treasures or special events (Tulsa’s 100th anniversary). The ornaments, made of solid brass with a 24K gold wash, are three dimensional. Each Ornament since 1987 has been designed by Bobbie Whaling, local artist and art teacher. The Ornaments were sold exclusively at Another Point Of View, a local gift shop. When the owner of Another Point of View retired in 2001, the Tulsa Ornament was unfortunately “retired” also.
As Christmas 2001 came and went, many Tulsa collectors were very disappointed to see the end of a truly wonderful and unique series. Friends of the artist asked why didn’t she design an ornament on her own? Then collectors tracked her down at home and the school where she teaches, asking that she please carry on the tradition of the Tulsa Ornament. She thought about it and prayed about it. And so, in the winter and early spring of 2002, she began to design two ornaments. One for the Christmas to come and one for the Christmas that was missed. But she wanted to do more. She wanted to give something back to our Tulsa community...and this is what she decided to do. Bobbie Whaling, designer, gives back one half (50%) of her profits from the sale of the Tulsa Ornaments to two local charities; Neighbor for Neighbor and Catholic Charities (includes St. Elizabeth’s Lodge-helps temporarily homeless families with small children, St. Joseph Residence- care for AIDS patients and Madonna House- assists unwed mothers). |
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