Aah, summer at last! Warm weather, sunshine, swimming pools, oh my! If you're like me, you spend most of the fall and winter seasons waiting for the arrival or spring and finally summer, when the dank gloominess of the cold finally lifts and it's at last safe to venture outdoors again.

Me, melodramatic? No, sir, I just hate winter with a passion. Winter equals cold, sad misery, but summer speaks of joy and laughter and running, jumping, climbing trees. Summer just isn't long enough around here, so we've got your guide to squeezing as much as you can into the few months of sunshine and warm weather.

So stop complaining about the humidity and get some sun while you can. It's not that hot. (But for those of you who think it is, I've included some indoor hotspots to keep you cool all summer long.)

While I'd rather be in Mexico, Florida or Hawaii, my budget won't afford it, so I've tried to come up with some local ways to spend the summer, going only as far as Oklahoma City, Missouri and Arkansas.

So grab your swimsuit, flipflops and shades and get ready for some summer fun!

Getting Warmer

May

Gone Fishin'

So there may not be an ocean or beach nearby, but there are a couple of lakes to visit when you need to feel the sun and sand. Visit Keystone Lake (just 15 miles west of Tulsa), Grand Lake in Grove or Skiatook Lake. At all three, you can enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, jet skiing, tubing and more. And if you're in the mood to journey just a bit further, head east on I-44 to Lake of the Ozarks in central Missouri, where the water is clear and the view is beautiful. For more info, visit www.keystoneok.com, www.grandbankok.com, www.skiatook.com and www.livelakeozarks.com.

Ongoing

Tulsa Zoo and Living Musuem

The Tulsa Zoo and Living Museum, 5701 E. 36th St. N., can be just as much fun for adults as it is for the kiddos. The new elephant demonstration yard opened just a couple of weeks ago, so visitors may sit in a stadium-like amphitheatre just feet away from Sooky and Gunda, the zoo's two Asian Cow elephants, as they strut their stuff with their keepers daily at 11am. Check out other live animal presentations and feedings, lectures from zookeepers and special activities for youngsters. For a schedule of weekly events, go to www.tulsazoo.org.

All Summer Long!

Blue Bell Creameries

Okay, so you really need no excuse to chow down on ice cream, but what better way to cool off during the warm summer months than with a big bowl of creamy goodness? Blue Bell Creameries, 8201 E. Hwy 51, are just a short car ride from Tulsa in Broken Arrow. Make an appointment for a tour of the creamery where you'll learn how the ice cream is made and get a little taste at the end. For more info, go to www.bluebell.com.

Branson, Missouri

Branson has been a long-time favorite destination for Tulsa families because there's just so much fun to be had in this small Missouri town. In one city you've got Silver Dollar City, Celebration City, White Water, Showboat Branson Belle, Ride the Ducks and many more shopping options and entertainment attractions. There's a new show to be seen each night and plenty of down home cooking to sample. For more information, visit www.silverdollarcity.com or www.explorebranson.com.

Frontier City

Can't make it to Six Flags this summer? You can still feel the thrill of roller coasters and experience the fun of tamer rides at Frontier City, located in far north Oklahoma City on I-35, between Hefner Road and NorthEast 122nd Street. Open on weekends only until June 2, Frontier City is the place to be for family fun and entertainment, hosting a boatload of musical acts throughout the season. For detailed information, visit www.frontiercity.com.

Myriad Botanical Gardens & Crystal Bridge

Not too terribly far from Tulsa in Oklahoma City, at Reno Ave & Robinson St., are the Myriad Botanical Gardens, a 17-acre, nationally recognized garden featuring an architectural treasure, the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory. Learn about and view plants from the rainforest and other tropical areas. For more information, including hours and admission, go to

www.myriadgardens.com.

Safari's Sanctuary

Located at 26881 E. 58th St. in Broken Arrow, is a sanctuary to all kinds of wildlife, from big cats, wolves, bears, primates, hoof stock, birds and reptiles, currently holding about 200 animals. The zoo is open Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 5pm, and during summer months there are special events like the exotic cat feeding stations and summer splash, where you can spray down the tigers and watch them play in the water! So fun! Go to www.safarissanctuary.org to learn more and plan your next trip.

Now thru Oct. 27

The Great Passion Play

A mainstay in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, the Great Passion Play is the story of Jesus of Nazareth told in an outdoor amphitheatre, accompanied by special attractions like the New Holy Land Tour, the Christ of the Ozarks statue, and the Tabernacle Teaching Tour, as well as the Bible Museum, the Parables of the Potter, the Sacred Arts Center, Museum of Earth History. For a schedule of events and to purchase tickets, visit greatpassionplay.com.

Weekends in May

Renaissance Festival

It's that time of year again at The Castle of Muskogee--time for ye olde Renaissance Festival. There will be performers galore, including musicians, jugglers, magicians, mimes, acrobats, sword fighters, comedians, belly dancers, Celtic bands, bagpipers, mud wrestlers, executioners as well as more than 100 artisans selling unique, handcrafted Renaissance wares. And don't forget the turkey legs! The festival will run every weekend in May and Memorial Day, and tickets run $5-11. Visit OKCastle.com and print your own, or get them at the gate. The Castle is located at 3400 Fern Mountain Rd. in Muskogee.

May. 3-5

Black Gold Days

They say Tulsa wouldn't exist if it weren't for Glenpool, and Black Gold Days is the annual city celebration of the Ida Glenn #1 oil well that impacted the oil industry around the world. The event includes a parade, carnival, games, contests, arts & crafts & free bluegrass concert in Glenpool. Call 322-3505 for more info.

May 3-June 28

Downtown Spring Music Festival

Starting May 3 and running through June 28, Tuesday evenings downtown are all about the music with the Downtown Spring Music Festival, sponsored by Urban Tulsa Weekly. From 4:30-7pm, you can enjoy local talents from big names to sidewalk performers at the 5th & Main intersection. On the first evening, you can enjoy the tunes of Earl Clark and his accompaniment, the Central High School Jazz Band. All of the shows are free, and you can just pop in after work without any hassle. For more info, call 582-3993.

May 4-6

Germanfest

Deutsch macht Spass! It's time again for the other big German-American Society event. Enjoy German foods music, dancing and imported wares. The Maikoenigen (May Queen) will also be crowned this weekend! The family-friendly event will benefit their GAST programs and will run from 10am-9pm Friday and Saturday and 12-5pm on Sunday. Entrace is free to the German American Society Building, which is at 1429 Terrace Dr. For more info, call 744-6997.

May 4-5

LPGA SemGroup Championship

Go girl. The LPGA tournament, now in its seventh year, sponsored by SemGroup and held at the Cedar Ridge Country Club, 10302 S. Garnett Rd. in Broken Arrow, is the only professional sporting event in the Tulsa area and has become a favorite for elite women golfers. For more info, go to www.semgroupchampionship.com.

Sat., May 5

Movie on the River

Take the whole family to see Will Ferrell's Kicking and Screaming at the West Bank Amphitheatre (2100 South Jackson Ave) on the Arkansas River at dusk. The movie is free and concessions are available for purchase, or you may bring your own. You might also grab a comfy lawn chair or blanket for seating.

May 10-12

Western Festival

Join in a celebration of Oklahoma's centennial, culminating in a replica land run in which guests can participate at the Flying W Guest Ranch in Sayre. Get more info at 888-928-8864 or flyingwguestranch.com.

May 10-13

Broken Arrow Rooster Days

BA's annual Chamber of Commerce community festival at the Central Park Community Center and Central Park (1500 S. Main). This year's big attraction will be BMX stunt riders, so get your helmet and head out south. For more information, visit www.brokenarrowok.gov.

May 11-12

6th Annual Bixby BBQ'n Blues Festival

Get dirty. An official State of Oklahoma Barbeque Competition and sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbeque Society, the event was created as a fundraiser by the Bixby Rotary club and has turned into a showcase of the state's best barbecue and blues music. The two-day event is at Washington Irving Memorial Park in Bixby. More information can be found at www.bixbyrotary.com.

Sat., May 12

Movie on the River

Bring the kids out to see the animated film Open Season on the West Bank Amphitheatre (2100 South Jackson Ave) on the Arkansas River at dusk. Bring a blanket and some snacks, or purchase concessions on site.

Sat., May. 12

Tulsa Talons

The local arena football team Tulsa Talons take on Lubbock at 7pm at the Tulsa Convention Center, downtown near 7th and Houston (100 Civic Center). For more information, head to www.tulsatalons.com.

Sun., May 13

Y-ME Walk to Empower

Get Walkin'. The Oklahoma affiliate of Y-ME, a national breast cancer support organization, is sponsoring a walk to benefit the northeastern Oklahoma chapter, beginning at 7am at 2100 S. Jackson Ave. Call Miranda Pugh for more information on how you can get involved at 494-8808.

May. 13-16

Tulsa Drillers

Play Ball! Head out to Drillers Stadium, 21st and Yale, to see the hometown boys take on the Wichita Wranglers. Times are 4pm Sun., 7pm Mon.-Tues., 12:35pm Wed. For more info and to get to know the players, visit www.tulsadrillers.com.

May 17-20

Tulsa International Mayfest

Lots of local art, music, food and drink. This year's musical headliners are country music acts Andy Griggs and Steve Azar. Catch all the fun, day ad night, downtown on Main Street. Get details at www.tulsamayfest.org.

May. 17-20

Tulsa Drillers

Head out to Drillers Stadium, 21st and Yale, to see the hometown boys take on the Springfield Cardinals. Game starts at 7pm every night, except on Sunday, when it starts at 2pm. For more info and to get to know the players, visit www.tulsadrillers.com.

May 18-20

4th Annual Blue Dome Arts Festival

Tired of seeing the same ole thing at MayFest year after year? Head down to the Blue Dome District, 1st and Elgin, for the Blue Dome Arts Festival, complete with art by local, regional and national artists, live music and fun activities for the kids. Get more info at www.bluedomeartsfestival.com.

Sat., May 19

Aduddell 5-Mile Riverside Run

Okay, so you walked last Sunday, not get ready to run to benefit the Tulsa Running Club. The race will begin at 61st and Riverside and end at 11th and Riverside. Call Adele Baker at 491-4524 for more info.

Sat., May 19

Movie on the River

See Charlotte's Web at dusk on the West Bank Amphitheatre (2100 South Jackson Ave) on the Arkansas River. The film is free, but remember you brig your own blanket or chairs for seating. You may also bring your own concessions or purchase them from a vendor.

May 19-Sept. 4

White Water Bay

Make a splash at White Water Bay, located just off I-40, near Frontier City. Enjoy one of the many slides at varying levels of scary to suit your fear factor, or relax in the wave pool. There are also special events and attractions all season long, and to find out more about those, go to www.whitewaterbay.com.

May 25-28

First Annual Fire on the Mountain Christian Motorcycle Rally

Several hundred motorcyclists are expected Memorial Day weekend in Eureka Springs, Arkansas for the four-day rally, featuring games, vendors, gospel music, lectures, guided bike tours and a biker parade in historic downtown Eureka Springs. To find out how to get involved, or if you just want more info, go to www.christianmotorcycleevents.com.

May 26-Sept. 4

Make a Splash

So the days of summer fun at Bell's Amusement Park are bygone, but you can still cool off next door at Big Splash Water Park, 4707 E. 21st St., when it opens on May 26. Hang out in the wave pool, slide down the Silver Bullet or relax in the Lazy River. The park is open Monday thru Thursday from 10am to 6pm, Friday and Saturday from 10am to 8pm and Sunday from 12 to 6pm. On the weekends, enjoy discount admission from 4 to 8pm for Nightsplash, and bring the whole family on Sunday for Family Day. The park is open until September 4, so enjoy it while it lasts!

May 28-Sept. 4

Woolaroc Ranch, Museum & Wildlife Preserve

Located 12 miles southwest of Bartlesville on State Hwy 123, Woolaroc is home to many species of native and exotic wildlife, such as buffalo, elk and longhorn cattle as well as a museum filled with Native American and western art and artifacts. The spring season closes Sept. 4, and the fall/winter season begins. For more information, including a schedule of events, call 918-336-0307 or visit www.woolaroc.org.

May 29-31

Tulsa Drillers

Head out to Drillers Stadium, 21st and Yale, to see the hometown boys take on the Midland RockHounds. Games begin at 7pm Tuesday and Thursday and 12pm Wednesday. For more info and to get to know the players, visit www.tulsadrillers.com.

May 31-June 2

Eureka Springs Blues Festival

Rock and blues recording artist Elvin Bishop and internationally acclaimed slide guitarist Roy Rogers headline the second annual Eureka Springs Blues Festival, joined by various other blues and rock recording artists, including the North Mississippi Allstars, Bobby Mack and the Chris Duarte Group. The festival takes place at various venues in Eureka Springs, and to find out where, log on to www.theaud.org. to find out what else is going on in Eureka Springs, visit www.eurekasprings.org.

June

Fri., June 1

Kidney Classic 5K

Run begins at 21st and Riverside at 7:15pm and ends at approximately 9:15pm. Contact Coneil Lafarlette at 744-0339 for more details.

June 1-2

Haskell Fest 100

Celebrating Oklahoma's Centennial with Parade, street dance with Danny Davis & the Detours and the Bill Davis Band, with fireworks after the show. Main St., Haskell. Visit haskellchamber.com for more info.

June 1-3

Tulsa Drillers

Take me out to the ballgame. Head out to Drillers Stadium, 21st and Yale, to see the hometown boys take on the Frisco RoughRiders. Games start at 7pm, except Sunday at 2pm. For more info and to get to know the players, visit www.tulsadrillers.com.

June 1-3

Tulsa Tough Ride & Race

Locally sponsored European-style cycling event to promote health and fitness. The races are criterium style, closed course circuits of less than one mile and accompanied by a festival complete with a kids' zone, food and drink and live music. For more information and to register, go to www.tulsatough.com.

Tue., June 5

"A Decade in the Shade: Tuesdays Turns 10"

The Tuesdays in the Park Concert Series continues this summer in Broken Arrow with free concerts every Tuesday at 7pm at Central Park, 1500 S. Main. Tonight's performance is by Pine Mountain Railroad and will feature bluegrass and gospel music. For more information, go to www.brokenarrowok.gov.

June 7-28

Live Horse Racing

And they're off! For years, watching and betting on the live horse races at Fair Meadows Raceway, 4609 E. 21st St.. has been a summertime evening favorite. Pick your favorite horse and place your bets. Hey, grab a cold beer while you're at it. For a more information and a complete racing schedule, go to www.fairmeadows.com or call 743-7223.

June 8-16

OK Mozart International Festival

For 23 years, the OK Mozart Festival in Bartlesville, has featured orchestral, bluegrass and jazz concerts chamber music ensembles, world-renowned guest artists, lectures, workshops and other events. This year, the festival will present more than 180 events, including concerts by the Amici New York Orchestra, which is in residence in Bartlesville for the festival, over a nine-day period at various locations in Bartlesville and a special presentation at Woolaroc. As always, the opening night event is free. For more information about the festival, including ticket prices and a complete schedule of events, visit www.okmozart.com.

June 9-August 18

Oklahoma!

See the state's anthem performed in the open evening air at Discoveryland, just 10 miles west of Tulsa. Performances begin at 8pm, with pre-show activities for kids and adults starting at 6pm. This year, Discoveryland will also perform Seven Brides for Seven Brothers in repertory with Oklahoma! For more information and to make reservations, go to www.discoverylandusa.com.

Sat., June 9

Brookside Rumble & Roll

Whether you're rolling or watching, the Rumble and Roll, which benefits the Make-A-Wish Foundations, is an exciting event. Lineup begins at 5:30pm just west of the Exchange Building at Expo Square, and the parade starts at 7pm, rolling through Cherry Street and the Brookside and ending on Brookside between 33rd and 36th Streets. From there, party on until 11pm with music by Mid-Life Crisis. For more information and, riders, to register, call 260-7680 or visit. www.rumbleandroll.com.

June 9-10

Route 66 Rockabilly Rumble

Feel the need for speed? Head to the JRP Speedway, 5920 W. 51st St., for the Rockabilly Rumble. Or go there at other various times throughout the year to watch kart and motorcycle racing. For more information, including a complete schedule of events, call 446-7000 or go to www.jrpspeedway.com.

Tue., June 12

Starlight Band Concert

The 37-piece concert band will perform in its 58th season of free musical programs, featuring showtunes, symphonic classics and pop hits. The concert begins at 8pm on the West Bank Amphitheatre (2100 South Jackson Ave) on the Arkansas River. Bring a lawn chair or blank for seating as well as your own food and drink. There will also be concessions available for purchase.

Tue., June 12

"A Decade in the Shade: Tuesdays Turns 10"

The Tuesdays in the Park Concert Series continues this summer in Broken Arrow with free concerts every Tuesday at 7pm at Central Park, 1500 S. Main. Tonight's performance is by Lori Adams, who is a jazz musician. For more information, go to www.brokenarrowok.gov.

June 13-16

Tulsa Drillers

Head out to Drillers Stadium, 21st and Yale, to see the hometown boys take on the Arkansas Travelers. Games start at 7pm. For more info and to get to know the players, visit www.tulsadrillers.com.

Fri., June 15

Plymouth Time Capsule Unearthed

Tell me if you've heard this one before. Fifty years ago, in an event called Tulsarama!, celebrating the state's 50th birthday, Tulsans buried a 1957 Plymouth Belvedere under what is now the Tulsa County Courthouse, at 500 S. Denver. It was filled with goodies from the past to show us what Tulsa was like 50 years ago. At noon today, the car will be unearthed and its contents emptied into the Tulsa Convention Center arena for a 6:30pm unveiling. Definitely something you don't want to miss! To learn more, go to www.buriedcar.com.

Fri., June 15

Waltz on the Wild Side

The Tulsa Zoo and Living Museum, 6421 E. 36th St. N., will be closed all day for this special event, benefiting the Growing Wild! Capital Campaign. Enjoy fine food, elegant drinks and a very unique atmosphere from 7pm-11pm. For more information and tickets call 669-6608 or visit www.tulsazoo.org.

Sat., June 16

Tulsa Talons

The Tulsa Talons take on Green Bay at 7pm at the Tulsa Convention Center, downtown near 7th and Houston (100 Civic Center). For more information, head to www.tulsatalons.com.

June 17-20

Tulsa Drillers

Head out to Drillers Stadium, 21st and Yale, to see the hometown boys take on the Wichita Wranglers. Games start at 4pm Sunday, 7pm Monday and Tuesday and 12pm Wednesday. For more info and to get to know the players, visit www.tulsadrillers.com.

Tue., June 19

Starlight Band Concert

Enjoy music under the stars when the Jazz Band performs in a free concert on the West Bank Amphitheatre (2100 South Jackson Ave) on the Arkansas River at 8pm. Program should last about two hours and patrons are encouraged to bring their own seating and concessions. Concessions will also be available for purchase.

Tue., June 19

"A Decade in the Shade: Tuesdays Turns 10"

The Tuesdays in the Park Concert Series continues this summer in Broken Arrow with free concerts every Tuesday at 7pm at Central Park, 1500 S. Main. Tonight's country music performance is by Oklahoma Balladeer Les Gilliam and his Silver Lakes Band. For more information, go to www.brokenarrowok.gov.

Tue., June 26

Starlight Band Concert

River Parks presents this free concert of showtunes, symphony music and popular hits on the West Bank Amphitheatre (2100 South Jackson Ave) on the Arkansas River at 8pm. Bring seating, food and drink and the family.

Tue., June 26

"A Decade in the Shade: Tuesdays Turns 10"

The Tuesdays in the Park Concert Series continues this summer in Broken Arrow with free concerts every Tuesday at 7pm at Central Park, 1500 S. Main. Tonight's rock'n'roll performance is by Mid-Life Crisis Band. For more information, go to www.brokenarrowok.gov.

June 27-29

Tulsa Drillers

Head out to Drillers Stadium, 21st and Yale, to see the hometown boys take on the San Antonio Missions. Games begin at 7pm. For more info and to get to know the players, visit www.tulsadrillers.com.

June 28-30

Jazz in June

This three-evening summer concert series in Norman is part of a 24-year tradition of bringing Oklahoma and national jazz and blues artists to the public for free. Concerts begin at 7pm each night with open jazz jam sessions following each. To find out more about the performers and locations of the concerts, call 405-325-3110 or go to jazzinjune.org.

June 30-July 2

Tulsa Drillers

Head out to Drillers Stadium, 21st and Yale, to see the hometown boys take on the Corpus Christi Hooks. Games are at 7pm Saturday & Monday and 6pm Sunday. For more info and to get to know the players, visit www.tulsadrillers.com.

July

Wed., July 4

Tulsa Salutes Freedom

Celebrate Fourth of July with Tulsa's 33rd annual free fireworks display -- the largest free display in Oklahoma! There will also be three different entertainment venues, corporate picnics and activities for the whole family. The day-long celebration will culminate at dusk with the fireworks display. Call River Parks at 596-2001 for more information.

Tue., July 10

Starlight Band Concert

The series continues at 8pm at the West Ban Amphitheatre (2100 South Jackson Ave) on the Arkansas River at 8pm. Bring seating, food and drink and the family.

July 11-14

Tulsa Drillers

Head out to Drillers Stadium, 21st and Yale, to see the hometown boys take on the Arkansas Travelers. Games are at 7pm. For more info and to get to know the players, visit www.tulsadrillers.com.

July 13-14

The Art of Barbeque

This is the 10th annual fundraiser for the Arts and Humanities Council of Tulsa and includes more than 75 teams cooking up and serving some delicious barbeque at the OU-Tulsa Schusterman Campus, 41st St. & S. Yale Ave. Come out and have a taste! For more information, call 584-3333 or go to www.ahct.org/artofbbq.

July 15-18

Tulsa Drillers

Head out to Drillers Stadium, 21st and Yale, to see the hometown boys take on the Springfield Cardinals. All games are at 7pm, except 6pm Sunday. For more info and to get to know the players, visit www.tulsadrillers.com.

Sat., July 16

Tulsa Talons

The Tulsa Talons take on the OKC Yard Dawgz at 7pm at the Tulsa Convention Center, downtown near 7th and Houston (100 Civic Center). For more information, head to www.tulsatalons.com.

Tue., July 17

Starlight Band Concert

The series continues at 8pm at the West Ban Amphitheatre (2100 South Jackson Ave) on the Arkansas River at 8pm. Bring seating, food and drink and the family.

July 20-22

An Affair of the Heart-Tulsa

An Affair of the Heart, which happens twice yearly in both Tulsa and Oklahoma City is an expo primarily for women, showcasing crafts, clothing, accessories, home furnishings, beauty products and more. Everything you need under one roof! Meander through hundreds of booths at the Expo Hall at Expo Square, 4145 E. 21st St. For more information, go to www.aaoth.com.

July 20-22

Tulsa Indian Club Powwow

The Tulsa Powwow, now in its 55th year, is a celebration of Oklahoma's Native American heritage as well as a contest for men and women, boys and girls in different powwow styles. The three-day event will be at the Tulsa Convention Center, 100 Civic Center. For more information, visit www.tulsapowwow.org.

Tue., July 24

Starlight Band Concert

The series continues at 8pm at the West Ban Amphitheatre (2100 South Jackson Ave) on the Arkansas River at 8pm. Bring seating, food and drink and the family.

Sat., July 28

Tulsa Talons

The Tulsa Talons take on South Georgia at 7pm at the Tulsa Convention Center, downtown near 7th and Houston (100 Civic Center). For more information, head to www.tulsatalons.com.

July 31-Aug. 2

Tulsa Drillers

Head out to Drillers Stadium, 21st and Yale, to see the hometown boys take on the Wichita Wranglers. All games begin at 7pm. For more info and to get to know the players, visit www.tulsadrillers.com.

August

Aug. 3-6

Tulsa Drillers

Head out to Drillers Stadium, 21st and Yale, to see the hometown boys take on the Springfield Cardinals. All games are at 7pm, except 4pm Sunday. For more info and to get to know the players, visit www.tulsadrillers.com.

August 6-12

2007 PGA Championship

That's right, folks. History is being made as the 89th annual PGA Championship Tournament is held at Southern Hills Country Club, 2636 E. 61st St. Tickets start out at only $30 per day, so there's no reason why you couldn't see it for yourself! Visit www.southernhillscc.com for more information.

Aug. 15-17

Tulsa Drillers

Head out to Drillers Stadium, 21st and Yale, to see the hometown boys take on the Frisco RoughRiders. Games begin at 7pm. For more info and to get to know the players, visit www.tulsadrillers.com.

Sat., Aug. 18

Hot Night in August on the Bridge

The third annual Hot Night in August Car & Truck Show at the Oklahoma Aquarium in Jenks, 300 Aquarium Drive, from 5 to 10pm. Dash Plaques and goodie bags for the first 100 entries. For more information and to register, go to www.jenkschamber.com.

Sat., Aug. 18

Jazz & Blues Heritage Festival

This free music festival happens every year downtown at the corner of "Jazz and Blues" (Greenwood and Archer) in the Greenwood District. The event includes lots of live music by local jazz and blues legends as well as food and family entertainment, from 6pm to 12:30am. For more information, call 585-2084.

Aug. 18-20

Tulsa Drillers

Head out to Drillers Stadium, 21st and Yale, to see the hometown boys take on the Midland RockHounds. Games are at 7pm, except 6pm Sunday. For more info and to get to know the players, visit www.tulsadrillers.com.

August 24-26

Green Country RV Show and Sale

Ready to get out of town for a while? Drive in style in a brand new recreational vehicle. The show is at Expo Square Expo Center Upper Level, 4145 E. 21st St. For more info, go to www.exposquare.com.

Aug. 28-31

Tulsa Drillers

Head out to Drillers Stadium, 21st and Yale, to see the hometown boys take on the Arkansas Travelers. Games are at 7pm. For more info and to get to know the players, visit www.tulsadrillers.com.

September -- Yes, September is still considered summer. We like to stretch it out as long as possible.

Sept. 1-3

Tulsa Drillers

Head out to Drillers Stadium, 21st and Yale, to see the hometown boys take on the Wichita Wranglers. Games are at 7pm Saturday, 6pm Sunday and 12pm Monday. For more info and to get to know the players, visit www.tulsadrillers.com.

Sept. 7-9

Tulsa House Beautiful Show

Meander through hundreds of booths at Expo Square Expo Center Upper Level (21st and Yale) to find just the right décor, furnishings, accessories and landscaping ideals to make your house your dream home. For more information go to www.exposquare.com.

Sept. 20-22

Annual Greek Holiday

Tulsa's oldest ethnic festival includes authentic Greek food and pastries, music, dancing, imported gifts, church tours and exhibits and is at the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 1222 S. Guthrie Ave. For more information, go to www.holytrinity.ok.goarch.org.

Sat., Sept. 15

Oklahoma Centennial Botanical Garden Celebration

Seven miles northwest of downtown Tulsa, there are 215 acres of land on Persimmon Ridge in the Cross Timbers preserved for its historical and ecological significance as part of the Oklahoma Centennial Botanical Garden/Research and Education Center. Today there will be a special celebration at the garden, 5323 W. 31st St. North, with events and activities for all ages. To get more details, go to oklahomacentennialbotanicalgarden.com.

Sat., Sept. 22

Brookside Artzz

The yearly Brookside Artzz is and arts festival that stretches the length of Brookside (Peoria between about 32nd and 41st Streets), with tons of local artists showing and selling their work. For more information about the festival, go to www.shopbrookside.com.

Sept. 27-Oct 7

Tulsa State Fair

Aah, the fair... that time of year when Tulsans gather together at the Fairgrounds (4145 E. 21st St.) to celebrate art, music, games, livestock and fried food. For details and a day-by-day schedule, go to www.tulsastatefair.com.

Staying Cool

Can't handle the heat? Get inside! Check out the calendar below for indoor summertime activities to keep you cool.

May

Now thru June 24

Justice Illuminated: The Art of Arthur Szyk

The Sherwin Miller Museum of Jewish Art, on the Zarrow Campus at 2021 E. 71st St. S., is currently exhibiting the work of Polish artist Arthur Szyk, whose work took aim at Nazi sympathizers and intolerance throughout America and Europe. For hours and other museum information, visit www.jewishmuseum.net.

Now thru July 29

Manuel: Star Spangled Thank You Tour

Gilcrease Museum presents this celebration of Manuel Arturo Jose Cuevas Martinez's legendary career as a fashion designer for musicians and actors. Also included in the exhibit are jackets designed to represent each of the 50 states. Visit Gilcrease at 1400 N. Gilcrease Museum Rd. or virtually at www.gilcrease.org.

Now thru Aug. 5

The Oklahoma Scene: Printmakers of the 1930s and 1940s

This Philbrook Museum of Art exhibit highlights Oklahoma artists with a single purpose: to capture the myths and truths of an America that was rapidly changing. More information at www.philbrook.org.

All summer long

Tulsa Air and Space Museum and the Bertelsmeyer Planetarium

Wanna see the stars without feeling the heat? Head inside to the Bertelsmeyer Planetarium, 3624 N. 74th E. Ave., and see more sky than you knew existed. The planetarium shows a number of educational programs exploring space, the planets and the solar system. The museum itself is also home to a number of educational exhibits highlighting Tulsa and Oklahoma's roles in the aviation and space industries. For more information, including a schedule of events at both the Planetarium and museum, go to www.tulsaairandspacemuseum.com.

May 6

Rebecca Ungerman and Frank Brown Trio

The last show of the Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame's spring concert series, Ungerman is one of Tulsa's favorite vocalists, and she and Brown frequent the Tulsa music scene. You can catch them on an almost weekly basis at Lola's Bowery, on Brady and Main downtown. The artists will perform at the old Jazz Hall location inside the Greenwood Cultural Center at 322 N. Greenwood at 5pm. Tickets are $3 to $10. For more info, visit www.okjazz.org.

May 8-13

Mamma Mia!

This popular musical, presented by Celebrity Attractions and set to songs by ABBA, tells the story of a young woman, her mother and her three possible fathers, staged on a mythical Greek island. Definitely a fun and light-hearted way to spend a summer evening at the Chapman Music Hall of the Tulsa PAC, 2nd and Cincinnati. Call 596-7111 or go to www.tulsapac.com.

May 17-19

The Three Fairy Godmothers

A fairy tale spoof performed by Clark's Youth Theatre, 11440 E. Admiral, is a comic way to stay cool. Call 669-6455 for reservations. For more info, visit www.clarktheatre.com.

Sat., May 19

TSO Season Finale

The Tulsa Symphony Orchestra wraps its premiere season with music by Bach, Barber, Respighi and Tchaikovsky, conducted by Edwin Outwater. Concert will be held in the Chapman Music Hall of the Tulsa PAC. For more information and tickets, visit www.tulsasymphony.org.

May 20-Nov. 4

The Career of S. Herbert Hare: Landscape Architect for Villa Philbrook

Landscape architect S. Herbert Hare collaborated with Edward B. Delk to design the gardens at Villa Philbrook, and you can take a meandering walk through them and see it for yourself.

May 25-June 2

Clue: The Musical

Presented by Theatre Tulsa, Clue is a rousing musical based on the popular board game, in which characters sing and dance their way in and out of suspicion, and it's up to the audience to guess whodunit, with what object and in which room. Presented in the Liddy Doenges Theater of the Tulsa PAC. For tickets, call 596-7111.

May 25-Sept. 16

Out of Oklahoma: Contemporary Artists From Ruscha to Andoe

A centennial event, this exhibit, at the Price Tower Arts Center, 510 Dewey Ave. in Bartlesville, examines trends in painting from 1960 to the present day, demonstrating the crucial role that artists born in or trained in Oklahoma have had on the national scene. The event is organized in conjunction with the Fred R. Jones Jr. Museum of Art on the OU campus in Norman, where it will be presented in September. For more information, go to pricetower.org.

June

June 8-10, 15-17

James and the Giant Peach

Roald Dahl's imaginative tale of a young boy's fantastical adventure, presented by Grace Ann Productions (www.grace-ann.com) at the TCC VanTrease PACE Theater, 81st Street and Hwy 169.

June 8-July 12

The Music Man

A light-hearted tale by Meredith Wilson about a traveling salesman who starts a children's marching band. Presented by Light Opera Oklahoma, the musical will be performed in Claremore at the Robson Performing Arts Center and in the Williams Theater of the Tulsa PAC. Most showtimes are at 8pm with the exception of the 2pm Sunday matinees. For more info and to get tickets, go to www.lightoperaok.org.

June 10-Sept. 2

Untamed: The Art of Antoine-Louis Barye

Exhibited at Philbrook, the work is by one of the greatest French sculptors of the 19th century and features more than one hundred and thirty highlights from the Walters Art Museum's (in Baltimore, Maryland) renowned collection. Visit www.philbrook.org for more info.

June 17 & 24, July 1 & 8

Trial by Jury

This operetta by Gilbert and Sullivan, presented by Light Opera Oklahoma, is the story of a young woman who sues her former fiancé for revoking his marriage proposal. For more information, visit www.lightoperaok.org.

June 21-July 13

Sweeney Todd

Light Opera Oklahoma presents Stephen Sondheim's "bloody musical thriller" about a baker and a barber who make the worst meat pies in London. These two are the naughtiest of LOOK's badly behaved men series. Performances are held in the Williams Theater of the PAC.

June 28-July 14

Naughty Marietta

LOOK's finale presentation, written by Victor Herbert and Rita Young, is about a princess who trades places with her maid to get out of an arranged marriage. Performed in the Williams Theater of the PAC. Get tickets and information at www.lightoperaok.org.

July

July 6-15

Jesus Christ Superstar

Presented by Grace Ann Productions, Andrew Lloyd Webber's modern rock musical chronicles the last seven days in the life of Jesus of Nazareth as seen through the disillusioned eyes of his disciple, Judas Iscariot. Go to www.grace-ann.com for more information.

July 10-15

Monty Python's Spamalot

Lovingly ripped off the movie Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Spamalot is the version of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table you haven't heard before. Presented by Celebrity Attractions and staged at Chapman Music Hall at the Tulsa PAC.