Downtown Coney Island must move, but where?

The scent of fresh hot dogs on the grill may soon be gone from downtown streets near Fourth St. and Cheyenne Ave. The lease is up for Coney Island Hot Wiener Shop, a long-time Tulsa icon, at 123 W. Fourth St.

The property's new owner, American Parking Co., reportedly wants to demolish the building, likely to create another parking lot. American Parking is the largest parking lot property owner in downtown Tulsa.

Coney Island's lease was up in November, and the business recently received notice to vacate the space on the ground floor of an unused, deteriorated hotel.

Coney Island restaurants began popping up around T-Town in 1926 when a Greek immigrant named Christ Economou opened his first downtown location. The restaurant was based on the popular New York coastal amusement park of the same name, and was called "Coney Island in Tulsa" until 1983.

Coney Island has made its way into Tulsans' hearts through their stomachs. Warm, soft steamed buns, chili made from scratch and grilled dogs have been the popular staple at this Tulsa lunch location.

Jim Economou, current owner of the Coney Island, has said he is on the lookout for a new location in downtown or the Brady District.

The Tax Man Cometh

Rev up those Turbo Tax engines, grab your W-2s and gear up for tax season. The government has announced an extra two days to turn in those federal tax forms, but many Americans can't wait to file their taxes for quicker returns.

About 75 percent of Americans are eligible for tax return money, according to a recent release by T-Town's local Jackson Hewitt Tax Service. The average tax return is $3,000.

The tax team over at Jackson Hewitt is kicking off the tax season right by offering helpful hints to area residents on how to boost refunds, reduce what you owe and speed up those returns.

For those who are eagerly awaiting a return, the IRS opens up their electronic filing service on Tues., Jan. 17.

Choose a trustworthy and professional tax preparer, and make sure they have a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN), which the IRS requires for all paid tax preparers.

Did you have a major life change in 2011? The Jackson Hewitt specialists said significant deductions or credits may be available for Tulsans who adopted or gave birth, who started a new business, went back to school or who are caring for elderly parents.

Last year, 70 percent of taxpayers filed their returns online, according to Jackson Hewitt's release. The tax service indicates there are many benefits to e-filing a tax return, including a faster processing time (you can receive a refund in only seven to 13 days), greater accuracy and quick confirmation from the IRS when the agency receives your return.