Don Woods and `Gusty` - Community Spirit Magazine
Transcription
Don Woods and `Gusty` - Community Spirit Magazine
EE FR February 2004 Don Woods and ‘Gusty’ Still Buddies After 50 Years Special Senior Citizens Issue Incredible Seniors • Health Tips • Retirement Advice ® David & Terri McAuliff An independently owned and operated member of The Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc. Community Spirit FEBRUARY 2004 Cover Whether buying or selling, give us a call. Don Woods and Gusty have been close “friends” now for fifty years. Read about how the Channel 8 weatherman created the lovable little cartoon character and how the two continue to entertain audiences while they share about the saving grace of Jesus Christ. “We are a family serving families.” 808-5498 - Direct Line SOLD by the ROCK Features SHERIDAN POND PRODUCTION MANAGER Steve Trickett ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR Zik Jackson Visit us once, and you’ll wonder why you haven’t lived here a lifetime. 8100 South Sheridan,Tulsa, Okla. www.SheridanPond.com FAMILY LIFE EDITOR Linda Mansur DESIGN AND PRODUCTION AdGraf 918.481.1650 ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Stephanie Reall, Jamie Sweeney CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Randy Cowell, Zik Jackson, Jim Stovall, Dane Tyner SPECIAL GUEST WRITERS Charles Biggs, Editor of The Tulsa Beacon Carol Carter, Marketing and Public Relations Coordinator of Life Senior Services TULSA SALES OFFICE 10019 S. 69th East Avenue, Tulsa, OK 74133 Phone: (918) 298-9616 Fax: (918) 298-9064 DISTRIBUTION Community Spirit is distributed to churches, schools, restaurants, Christian bookstores, and other businesses. Community Spirit is published monthly by Equipment Publications, Inc. www.communityspiritmagazine.com Your Choice For Professional Service Copyright © 2004 by Equipment Publications, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited. Insurance and Financial Services Subscriptions are available for your convenience at a cost of $28 for 12 issues. Make checks payable to Community Spirit, 10019 S. 69th E. Ave., Tulsa, OK 74133. Vaughn R. Henson, MBA Financial Services Associate The Prudential Insurance Company of America Branch Office: (918) 492-4441 ext. 7234 Claims by advertisers and the opinions of writers within this publication do not necessarily represent the views of Community Spirit or its publisher, Equipment Publications, Inc. Insurance issued by The Prudential Insurance Company of America, Newark, NJ and its affiliates. Prudential Financial and the Rock logo are registered service marks of The Prudential Insurance Company of America and its affiliates. COMMUNITY SPIRIT The Passion of the Christ 6 Don Woods & Gusty Still Buddies After 50 Years PUBLISHER Tom McCloud OKC Fairgrounds 10th & N. May Ave February 6, 7, Fri-Sat 9-6 & 8, Sun 11-6 5 19 22 Apartments & Corporate Suites 4 ® VOLUME 4 • NO. 11 February 2004 Election Year 2004! Lindsay Roberts’ Women’s Conference SENIOR LIVING 8 9 Marge Creager Vern Garbe Sharing the light around the world for over 50 years 10 11 12 Standing On Your Own Two Feet The Medicare Prescription Drug Act of 2003 Senior Housing 14 Do You Hear What I Hear? 16 18 Practicing Significance The Mature Driver—Chuck Mai, AAA Oklahoma Which Option Is Right For You? Getting Past the Stigma of Buying A Hearing Aid LOOKING YOUR BEST 20 21 Microdermabrasion–Is it Right for You? You Can Have White Youthful Teeth Again Departments 17 24 25 27 30 Winners’ Wisdom—Dreams Do Come True Good Stewardship Heart & Home—Love In Every Language News Around Town Community Calendar Visit our New Website! www.communityspiritmagazine.com Now you can download the whole magazine, or simply a couple of the featured articles. Soon, you will be able to get a detailed map of distribution locations near you, or search the Community Spirit database for our recommendations on who to call for almost any good or service. Our Mission... To glorify God by telling stories of individual Christians whose good works testify to God’s active presence in Oklahoma. Through the telling of these true stories, we pray that... Christians will be inspired to do more good works, the Body of Christ will be unified, and that all will hear the Good News — that God offers everyone an abundant new life in Jesus. Passion THE OF THE “It is deeply moving, powerful, and disturbing. A film that must be seen–although the graphic scenes of the scourging of Jesus are wrenching.” — James Dobson, Chairman, Focus on the Family “Everyone should see this movie... It could be Hollywood’s finest achievements to date.” — Tim LaHaye, Tim LaHaye Ministries Much of Hollywood is already panning the movie with accusations that it is anti-Semitic. However those who have seen the film agree that it does not point a finger at the Jews. “The moral of... Mel Gibson’s film is that we all killed Jesus—Jew and Gentile alike—and tortured him, and we do so everyday,” — David Horowitz, Jewish talk show host and columnist. Mel Gibson has one cameo appearance in the film, but you won’t recognize him. It is his hands which hammer the nails. This alone tells a strong message of Gibson’s attitude toward making this film, for as he says, “We are the ones who sion of the Christ,” hammer the Mitch was on the phone nails every day.” the morning he returned Gibson, along to book an entire theatre with actor Jim for his church. Caviezel (Count Read just a few of the of Monte Cristo), Mel Gibson (director/producer) directs quotes from those who who plays Jesus, Jim Caviezel (Jesus) for The Passion of pre-screened the movie believes that the Christ, a film by Mel Gibson. Photo and you will understand making this film that Mitch is not alone in credit: Philippe Antonello. could well mark his excitement. In fact the end of their careers in Hollywood. But during the conference, Rick Warren said, “I both are committed to sharing this incredibelieve that the release of this film will be ble message. “I may never work again, but if the beginning of the 3rd Great Awakening I go down in this ship then that is fine with in Christianity... no, I believe it will be the me,” Caviezel said. Unable to secure biggest opportunity for evangelism since investors for the film, Gibson shouldered the Pentecost.” entire load of the thirty-five million needed “Every time I preach or speak about the Cross, to make and distribute the movie. He did so the things I saw on the screen will be on my for one reason, so the world—and you— heart and mind.” would understand. — Billy Graham But viewers should be advised, as Mitch Wilburn puts it, “This is not a popcorn and “The Passion will stun audiences and create an coke type movie. It is not for kids. It is disincredible appetite for people to know more turbing and it will forever embed the reality about Jesus. I urge Christians to invite their of the crucifixion into your heart.” spiritually seeking friends to see this movie with The Passion of the Christ will be released to them...” 2000 theatres on February 25th. — Lee Strobel, Former Atheist, Author of Who are you going to invite? The Case for Christ and The Case for Faith Christ One “R” Rated Movie that we MUST See! B Y TO M M C C L O U D new movie called The Passion of the Christ hits the Tulsa area movie theatres on February 25th, we pray that you will go and take many friends with you. For as Lee Strobel (Author of The Case for Christ and The Case for Faith) said, “Sure this movie is rated R, but in this case, the R should stand for “Reality.” We recently interviewed Mitch Wilburn, Community Minister at Park Plaza Church of Christ. Mitch had just returned home from a national conference at the Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, California, where four thousand youth ministers had the opportunity to pre-screen the new movie. Lee Strobel did the introduction, and after the movie, Rick Warren (Author of The Purpose Driven Life) conducted a question and answer period with Mel Gibson. Through tear-filled eyes, Mitch did his best to describe some of the scenes of the movie as well as the impact that the film made on him personally. “I am sorry,” he said as he wiped away a tear. “I cried like a baby throughout the movie and I have cried every day since.” Armed with the first-hand experience of the importance of the message of “The Pas- W HEN MEL GIBSON’S February 2004 COMMUNITY SPIRIT 5 more than the weather forecast. Incorporating the cartoon into some Bible lessons, Don has produced simple tracts that have helped to share the Gospel with thousands of people all over the world. “The tracts especially have been popular in Taiwan. For some reason, the Chinese really like Gusty,” Don said. The tracts share a Good News message of how sin separated little Gusty from God and how the Cross bridged the gap to make it possible for Gusty (and the reader) to be with God. Don offered a simple message of salvation, one that he continues to share with anyone who will listen. “So has ‘Gusty’ always been a Christian?” we asked. “Oh no, he had to smarten up. He has always been a church-goer, but that is not the same thing. There is a lot of difference between religion and knowing the Lord. You might say that Gusty and I met Jesus in 1965. I really needed some help and I went down on my knees in this empty house. And for the first time, I really repented. I don’t think I understood what had happened to me, but I went to a Christian friend and told him about it. He insisted that I confess it out loud and I guess it worked. From then on, it was a different kind of life for me. I had a relationship with God.” The change in Don’s life and in the life of his wife was noticeable to all who knew them, and they have been witnessing ever since. Though Don is quick to point out that he “places little store in organized religion (denominational arguments),” he can’t help but share the Good News, the opportunity to have that personal relationship with the Creator of the Universe. Since his conversion experience, Don and Gusty have preached their message of salva- Don Woods & Gusty Still Buddies After 50 Years since Don Woods and his buddy “Gusty” delivered the weather on Channel 8. Yet both Don and Gusty continue to be two of the most recognizable celebrities in town. In fact, during the State Fair, it is easy to “forecast” long lines for the opportunity to purchase one of Don’s cartoons of the loveable little weather guy. If you were not fortunate to be in Tulsa during the 60s, 70s, and 80s, you missed out on watching Don Woods, one of the area’s most popular weathermen. Presenting the weather forecast back before the days of computer graphics and animation, Don used a simple black board, a piece of chalk, and lots of imagination to sketch a cheerful little cartoon called “Gusty” to help communicate the forecast to his admiring viewers. Whether Gusty was jumping into the “Frady Hole,” or suntanning at the lake, the nightly cartoon provided an extra reason to tune into Channel 8 News. Don “met” Gusty back in 1954. Born and raised in Wichita, Don had returned after serving as a Navy weatherman in Guam and SiPan. In an attempt to increase his modest salary at the weather bureau, Don applied at I 6 T ’S BEEN THIRTEEN YEARS COMMUNITY SPIRIT a Wichita television station. “The General Manager of the station had spent some time in Omaha where his weatherman drew a nightly cartoon called “Beanie the Coffee Bean,” named after the station’s sponsor, Omaha Butternut Coffee,” Don explained. The manager liked the cartoon so much that he simply insisted that Don be able to draw a cartoon in order to get the job. “I was not an artist and I had no idea how to draw a cartoon, so I went to visit the father of a friend of mine, who taught me the basics. After some practice, I came up with ‘Gusty’ and the manager hired me on the spot,” Don said as he quickly drew another classic Gusty cartoon. “I guess I have drawn hundreds of thousands of them since.” Through the years, Don has used Gusty to communicate Visit the February 2004 Gusty website at www.gusty.us tion wherever possible. “We used to be able to share it in schools. I would draw Gusty, talk about Jesus, and even have an altar call, but of course the public schools don’t allow that anymore,” he said. He recalls that back in the 70s, Channel 8 owner Jimmy Leake used to even let Don and Gusty tell the story on television. But of course that era passed and eventually gave way to a time when Don was instructed not to talk about Jesus in the workplace anymore. But thankfully, Don, who has a reputation of always telling it like it is, was never good at separating his faith from his work. In fact to this day, Channel 8 Weatherman Travis Meyer, often tells of how Don mentored him. Don leads a simple yet busy life now. He and his wife live in the same modest home they purchased in 1965. They have three children, six grandchildren, and three great-grand children. “I’m old!” he joked. “In fact, when I read the Bible, I am cramming for my finals!” Through the years, Don has developed a passion for art. Much past “the cartoon” stage of his craft, he does incredible watercolors of the places he and his wife visit in their small motor home. They enjoy traveling and Don Hearing Aids ECONOMY Hearing Aid Centers of Oklahoma Sound Advice • Affordable Prices VISA/MC/DISC/AMEX Insurance Accepted Financing Available “Come see my friends at Economy & save.” SM 50% Off Suggested Retail Price!* Call today for a FREE demonstration of today’s newest technology! 622-6439 834-3933 New Technology for Hearing Loss Available Now! Fully Digital Hearing Aids 5649 E 41st St (Highland Plaza) 2464 S Sheridan (Mid-Town) serves as the chaplain for his RV club. “I am against sin, for motherhood, and I am not too controversial, so they decided that I should be the one,” he joked. When at home in Tulsa, Don continues to work. He represents Economy Hearing Aid Labs as well as the Bill Haynes Company. He also teaches meteorology at Tulsa Community College. After so many years of studying the weather, what has nature taught Don Woods about God? When we asked him the question, he thought for a moment and said, “It has taught me that we are utterly dependent upon the Lord. The longer you live and the more that you see, you begin to ask yourself, ‘Okay, what am I here for?’ I am here to totally and completely depend on the Lord for my life. I mean how can you control a tornado? We have to depend upon God completely.” This year, Don will celebrate a milestone as he recognizes the 50th Anniversary for the loveable Gusty cartoon. “There is a renewed interest in Gusty,” he explained. “I may have retired, but Gusty is still going strong! He is now in the Smithsonian Institute and continues to be very popular. In fact, your readers will soon be hearing about some big plans that Gusty has for 2004!” “We can’t wait,” I said. Now, could you sign that one “To My Friend Tom?” Muskogee 686-6022 Sapulpa 224-7737 Bartlesville 331-0928 We repair all brands and all sizes! See us at: www.hearingchoices.com *Offer good on all Siemens Prisma II models only. See store for details. February 2004 Trusted Tulsa Meteorologist Don Woods COMMUNITY SPIRIT 7 SENIOR LIVING Marge Creager The Drummer with an Ear to Hear… Others B Y TO M M C C L O U D I am convinced that He would talk to Marge Creager. For of all the people I have ever met, Marge is undoubtedly the best listener. It is a skill that He obviously provided to her on purpose. And in turn, it is a skill that she has used and continues to use to His glory. For any Memorial High School grad who might be reading, you surely remember “Mrs. Creager” as the Dean of Boys and Girls. A guiding presence from the school’s first graduating class in 1968 until 1986, she touched many young lives with her infectious smile, quick wit, and non-judgmental attitude. She laughs when she recalls that some of the kids (especially the boys) would often come tell her about what they were thinking of doing before they got into trouble. And even if you never were “officially” sent to see her, she had a way of reaching out to every student, making you believe that you were something special. But as well as the students remember her as a counselor and friend, we didn’t realize that she was busy touching lives outside of I F GOD EVER HAD A PROBLEM, school at the same time. Like breathing, it is something she does without thinking. And even now at the age when most women are living quiet, more sedentary lives, Marge Creager runs full-steam, hoping to help at least one more person before the day is over. An avid, in fact awardwinning, member of the Red Cross, Marge keeps her bags packed, ready to go wherever people need help. She was in Oklahoma City to counsel the families of the lost and injured. She was at the Pentagon to reach out to the families of the fallen soldiers. And she was in New York City to listen to the cries of those left behind. While in Tulsa, she now focuses much of her time working as a therapist for Group Homes, counseling with the many six- to seventeen-year-old kids pulled from troubled homes. Many of you know Marge as the wife of Mack Creager, beloved Channel 6 sportscaster and radio announcer. She met him at a Christmas dance while they were attending Oklahoma A&M. Mack was a star athlete and Marge played in the marching band. She explained that though she had played the French Be a Vital Heart of Our Community AT T H E C O U N T RY C L U B O F W O O D L A N D H I L L S Tulsa’s Finest Rental Retirement Community horn and sax in high school, she couldn’t afford to buy an instrument. And since the school provided drums, she jumped right in and learned to play. “I got to see lots of football, especially that running back and kicker, Mack Creager,” she laughed. Marge and Mack had a great life together and had been married fifty-five years when Mack died suddenly in March of 2002. “Boy do I miss him,” she said as she smiled through tear-filled eyes. “You men are so important!” she said as she encouraged me even in her grief. The couple had four children, two girls and two boys, each of whom stay close and keep good care of their mother. For fun, Marge has acted as a tour guide for years, taking groups all over the world. In fact, she is now busy pulling together a cruise to see all the islands of Hawaii. And in between the kids, the travel, the Red Cross, and her friends, Marge carves out time to be one of the drummers for Asbury Methodist’s Senior Ragtime Band. Laying down a strong rhythm, she covers up any ability she may have lost over the last fifty years with a large dose of attitude. If you ever need a loving, compassionate ear to listen to your problems, this drumplaying great grandmother would be an excellent choice. But knock before you enter the room, for who knows, God may have gotten there ahead of you. Westport on the River Warm, Friendly Atmosphere for the Young at Heart • No Buy in Fees! • Wide choice of cottages or apartments • 24-Hour Security • Covered Parking • Scheduled Transportation • Planned Social Activities • Delicious Full Menu Dining • Weekly Housekeeping • All Utilities Paid - including cable! Apartment Homes 1 bds from $379 2 bds from $629 Don’t wait, call today! 6333 S. 91st E. Ave. Call T.R. for a tour of our elegant, yet comfortable community! Monday-Friday 9-5 Country Club of Woodland Hills 252-5451 8 COMMUNITY SPIRIT February 2004 Priceless Amenities • Amazing Views of Downtown • Riverparks Jogging Track • Covered Parking • Private Access Gates • We Love Pets! Look and Lease the same day and you can forget about the application fee! (918) 599-7180 1703 S. Jackson West on 21st St. Bridge and take a right at the first stoplight. SENIOR LIVING Vern Garbe Sharing the light around the world for over 50 years B Y Z I K J AC K S O N N A SMALL, NONDESCRIPT OFFICE in a modest building in the heart of Tulsa’s urban industrial district near 41st and Sheridan sits a wise, humble man who has made helping people in Tulsa and around the world his life’s mission. Vern Garbe, founder of Garbe Industries, has been in the home furnishings business for almost sixty years, and his story reads like the American dream. After three years in the Air Force as a flight engineer during World War II, Mr. Garbe returned from his European and Pacific tours of duty to civilian life. “I came to Tulsa on a bus with ten dollars in my pocket,” says Mr. Garbe, who turned 81 on February 5th. “I slept in the bus station overnight, and then looked for work. I went to work at a hardware store on 4th and Cincinnati for two hundred dollars a month.” The store is no longer there, but Mr. Garbe found his calling as a retail businessman. “I found out that I liked people, and decided I wanted to help people. If they had a need, I could help them.” Along the way, he met and married his wife, and they have been married now for over fifty years, as much in love as ever. With the help of his uncle, Mr. Garbe bought into his employer’s store, and eventually became the owner. Through his business, Mr. Garbe finds a venue to minister to people. “I’ve been a merchant in this city since 1946,” he says. “I witness for Christ—it helps if you have a place of business. Then people are coming to you instead of you going to them.” Mr. Garbe’s longevity in Tulsa has allowed him to supply hardware, lighting, and building materials for the construction of hundreds of homes in the area, as well as some major landmarks. He tells the story of the origins of St. John’s Hospital: “The sisters came to town to build a hospital at 21st and Utica. I helped build the first building, but they’ve since torn it down. I’ve outlived the building!” When asked what his favorite part of coming to work is after all these years, Mr. Garbe replied cheerfully, “I’m having the time of my life, and I love to keep helping people. Some of my employees have been with me for over thirty years—we’re a family. It isn’t about looking at the bank I twenty years, Vern Garbe has a vision for helping people in practical ways. He says blindness has made him sharper in other ways. “I listen better, I can taste better,” he says. “I’ve been blind for twenty years, but I’m not handicapped.” His unstoppable drive to help people is fueled by the joy of the Lord and a good sense of humor. “We’ve got to laugh more,” he says. “It’ll increase the length of your life. Helping people is the goal. You can’t fly alone... I’m afraid to fly alone.” As God’s co-pilot, this humble merchant plans to continue to bless people with a smile, a laugh, and a kind word. balance; it’s about spending time with the people. This whole bunch is a family. We love each other, and when people come into the store, we love them too.” New customers are treated like friends, and regular customers like family. Regulars are easy to find at Garbe’s, not just because there’s only one store, but because of the high level of personal service on each purchase. “We don’t care how long it takes,” says Mr. Garbe, “I want them to be happy with it. We want to Service Beyond be sure that you get Expectation SIMPLICITY. the very finest that we We reduce the complicated task of arranging a have.” And Garbe’s has a funeral or cremation service to three simple lot to offer. Importing items from choices. Each Dignity Memorial Plan comes with a 100% service guarantee, pus transferability of as far away as China, Europe, and everyprearrangements to more than 1,500 affiliates in where in between, the store at 4137 S. the U.S. and Canada. 72nd E. Ave. contains a plethora of home For a simple explanation of the Dignity Memorial Plans, please call furnishings, lighting, and accessories, or Stanleys Funeral Service “elegance for virtually every room of your 3959 Est 31st Street (Between Harvard and Yale) home.” 743-6271 Although God has blessed him financially, he’ll be the first to say it’s not what motivates Him. His “secret,” if there is one, is makVerilux® HappyEyes™ ing Jesus his busiSunshine in a Lamp™ ness partner. “I pass that knowledge to people: you can’t outgive God. Tithing is just the beginning. People need to give while they’re alive and not wait until they’re dead and have their heirs do it,” he says. His generosity has made a big difference for many people in the community over the years, yet he likes to remain nonchalant about it. Super Bright 27W Bulb Included “We’ve witnessed Lasts 5x Longer than Ordinary Light Bulbs for Christ all over Reduces Eyestrain & Glare the world,” he says. Shows True Colors “It’s not about me; I 4137 South 72nd East Ave. want them to know God is alive and He’ll help you.” Open 9:30-5:00 Even though 12-5 Saturday blind for the past ONE WORD ABOUT FUNERALS. See With Comfort & Ease 627-0284 February 2004 COMMUNITY SPIRIT 9 SENIOR LIVING Standing On Your Own Two Feet Tips for Making Your Home Safer R E P R I N T E D F R O M O K L A H O M A S E N I O R M AG A Z I N E you’re not alone. More than eleven million people over the age of sixty-five fall every year — that’s one of every three senior citizens. People with Parkinson’s disease are especially likely to be among this group because the illness can affect their balance, posture, and the way they move. Falls can be a serious problem — they are a major cause of injury, restricted mobility, and loss of independence. The good news is that many falls can be prevented. The most important step you can take to prevent falls is to maintain as much strength and coordination as possible by following your doctor’s instructions on taking your medications, eating properly, and exercising. The next step is to look around your home for hazards that could lead to a fall, and correct them. Here are some suggestions for creating a safer home environment: I F YOU’VE FALLEN LATELY, In the bathroom: • Use grab bars to get into and out of the tub • Use a bath chair or stool in the shower • Don’t use throw rugs or wax on the bathroom floor • Use a raised toilet seat with arm rails • Buy soap on a rope, or put a bar of soap in a nylon stocking with one end tied to a towel bar In the kitchen: • Use a long-handled sponge/mop to wipe up spills • Keep your floors smooth but not slippery • Store your often-used supplies in easy-toreach cabinets • Avoid hard-to-reach wall phones; consider a cordless phone that can be carried from room to room, or a counter model Throughout your home: • Be sure that stairwells are well lit; consider nightlights for hallways and bathrooms • Wear low-heeled, comfortable shoes with nonskid soles; don’t walk around in socks, slippers, or stockings on bare floors • Keep rooms and hallways free of clutter • Make sure carpets, including those on stairs, have skidproof backing or are tacked to the floor 10 COMMUNITY SPIRIT Above all, use common sense. If bending throws you off balance, try to avoid picking things up. If you are unsteady outdoors, use a cane to negotiate sidewalk cracks and curbs. If you fall but do not injure yourself, don’t assume that you must restrict your activities. Too little activity can cause you to lose strength and coordination, putting you at greater risk for another fall. Instead, talk to your doctor about these and other steps you can take to reduce your risk of a more serious fall. In the Living Room The living room is important, mostly because it’s where we tend to spend a large part of our day when we’re inside. To keep it a safe place for you, consider these tips: • Arrange the furniture to give yourself enough room to move around and between pieces. Plan a route through the house that will always give you something to hold onto in case you lose your balance • Try chairs with a straight back, armrests, and a firm seat to make getting up easier. You can even add a firm cushion to get the height that’s right for you • Install handrails on all staircases, especially outside. Consider adding other railings in hallways or other areas where you don’t have something to hold onto • Buy a device that adapts the small buttons of a standard phone to huge push buttons. It can make dialing a lot easier In the Bathroom This may be the place where you could use the most help. Getting around the bathroom can be tricky, especially since floors, showers, and tubs can get very slippery when wet. In addition, most bathrooms are small and restrict your movement. Here are some helpful devices you can use to make your bathroom a safer place: • Attach nonskid decals or strips to the tub or shower floor. You can even use a rubber mat. These can all help prevent falls • Get rid of small bathroom rugs that are easy to trip over. Try a large rug that covers most of the floor or get wall-to-wall carpeting • Install tub rails or grab bars throughout the bathroom. These will help you balance February 2004 when getting in and out of the tub or shower • Use a tub seat or shower chair to make bathing easier and to eliminate the risk of falling • Purchase a raised toilet seat, attach arm rails to the toilet, or install a grab bar on the wall next to the toilet. These will all make sitting on and rising from the toilet easier In the Kitchen The symptoms of PD can limit your strength and coordination and may affect your ability to perform certain tasks in the kitchen. But, there are dozens of useful aids that can be used to improve your safety and keep things moving. Here’s a sample: • If you have the wall space, install a pegboard you can easily reach. Use it to hang up the utensils you use most often • Place a rubber pad or wet dishcloth under bowls and pans to keep them stable • Use an electric can opener and jar opener. They reduce frustration and improve safety • Try a wooden cutting board with raised edges to prevent food from scattering when you cut it. Attach suction cups to the bottom of the cutting board to prevent it from sliding • Collect floor sweepings with a long-handled dust pan. This will keep you from having to bend to the floor • Purchase aluminum pots and pans if you have limited strength. Long pot handles allow room for both hands when lifting In the Bedroom To begin, try to avoid clutter. Keep floor areas free of shoes and other objects, and give yourself easy access to your bed, dresser, and closet. To make it easier for you to get in and out of bed, consider the following: • Keep your bed about knee height. If your bed is now too high, have a carpenter shorten the legs. If it’s too low, try using a thicker mattress or mattress padding • Mount a wooden or metal triangle (called a trapeze) over the head of the bed. This can help you change your position, and you can find one at most surgical supply stores • Place a sturdy cardboard box under the sheets at the foot of the bed. This will keep your feet and legs free of the sheets so it’s easier for you to turn over • At the head of the bed, put wooden risers under the legs or place a foam cushion under the mattress. This will make it easier for you to sit up and rise from bed • Install a railing on the wall about 10 inches higher than the level of the bed. Make sure the bed is placed against the wall below the railing. You can use the railing to help you get out of and turn in bed SENIOR LIVING The Medicare Prescription Drug Act of 2003 What will it mean to YOUR pocket book? The savings will be even more dramatic for the lowest income seniors. They will pay only a portion of the $35 premium (determined on a sliding scale) and will only pay a $50 deductible (instead of the $275). So how will the numbers stack up for the average senior? According to Congressman Sullivan, a senior paying full retail prices with monthly prescription bills of $150 ($1,800 per year) will have an annual savings of $723. The math… Currently spending $150 per month or $1,800 per year... Under the program, they will spend $420 per year ($35 per month) on premiums. In addition, they will be responsible for the $275 for the annual deductible and then for the 25% for co-pay (Medicare pays 75%). Total cost under the program… Premiums $ 420.00 Annual Deductible $ 275.00 25% of $1,525 $ 381.25 U.S. Representative John Sullivan addresses a senior group at Trinity Lutheran Church. are lighting up the phones at the area congressional offices. Hoping for relief from the high cost of prescription drugs, they are anxiously calling for an explanation of what the new bill will mean to their personal situation. We met with Congressman John Sullivan, a supporter of the Medicare Prescription Drug Act of 2003 that was passed this fall. He was addressing a group of seniors at Trinity Lutheran Church. The new drug bill was foremost on their minds. During his campaign, Sullivan became interested in reforming the Medicare program after hearing story after story from seniors who were unable to afford to take the drugs that their doctor had prescribed. And although the congressman readily admits that the new bill is only a beginning first step in reforming the monstrous Medicare program, he is proud to explain that many, if not most, of Oklahoma’s seniors will highly benefit by the new drug benefit. He and his staff are now working to spread the word about the new legislation, and though he says that much of the fine details of the bill are difficult to understand, he believes that it will be a positive and helpful change to many of our seniors. O KLAHOMA’S SENIOR CITIZENS The Basics… The new bill has two types of assistance programs. One starts this spring and the other begins in 2006. This spring, seniors will be able to receive a prescription drug (discount) card. All Medicare beneficiaries, except Total Paid Annual Savings of $1,076.25) $1,076.25 $723.75 ($1,800 less those who have Medicare drug coverage, can Although the bill received bi-partisan receive the card. By capitalizing on the sales volume of millions of seniors buying through support, there are many on both sides of the aisle who are upset at the passage of the bill. these same channels, the White House Some say that it did not go far enough to believes that by using the card, seniors will help our seniors. Others complain that it is save 10 to 25% off their prescription drugs. taking us down a dangerous and much too In addition, immediate help will be given to expensive path. But to most of Oklahoma’s low-income seniors, providing them with seniors, the new program should result in $600 in additional assistance during 2004 lower prescription drug prices. And for that, and 2005. The second portion of the program begins our senior citizens should be truly grateful. “It’s a great step in the right direction,” in 2006. At that time, seniors will be able to Sullivan argued. And at least this senior citi(voluntarily, its your decision) add drug coverage to traditional fee-for-service Medicare zen club seemed to whole-heartedly agree. You may contact Kristy Long at Conwithout any loss of current benefits. They gressman Sullivan’s Tulsa office for more enter the program by paying a $35 monthly information on how the new program will premium (per person) plus an annual personally affect your prescription drug deductible of $275. Medicare will then pay 75% of the person’s drug costs up to the first costs. Congressman John Sullivan phone $2,200. In addition, in the case of a catastro- number is (918) 749-0014. phe, if the person’s drug bills should exceed $3,600 in one calendar year, Medicare will then begin payA ing 95 percent of the C Financial Services, Inc. drug charges. Bottom line, ConT gressman Sullivan believes that OklaR.C. (Randy) Cowell, M.S., LUTCF, CFP, CSA President homa’s seniors will initially save 25% or more through the prescription drug card (available in April) and then will www.ACTFinancialServices.com begin saving more Securities and advisory services offered through: Hornor, Townsend and Kent, Inc. A NASD/SPIC Member Firm. than 25% in 2006. Financial Planning with a Personal Touch (918) 664-0081 February 2004 COMMUNITY SPIRIT 11 SENIOR LIVING When someone you love needs 24-hour nursing services, call on us. University Village Nursing Center • Over 30 years of Experience • Recognized as “The Best of the Best” 2003 • A “Perfect Score” on State Licensure Survey 2003 • A Reputation for Excellence UV also offers: Independent Senior Living Assisted Living Parkinson’s Program Respite Care for short stays University Village 8555 South Lewis, Tulsa, Oklahoma, 74137 www.university-village.info For information, brochure or tour, call (918) 298-3396 William Medical Building, Suite 1110 6585 South Yale Tulsa, OK 74136 918.502.PAIN (7246) Subspecialty Board Certified in Pain Management by the American Board of Anesthesiology “ Offering Leading Edge Technology and Minimally Invasive Procedures for Effective Pain Management”. “Focused on the Quality of Life” 12 COMMUNITY SPIRIT February 2004 Senior Housing ? Which Option is Right for You? R ETIREMENT COMMUNITIES, multi-level and continuum of care communities, independent apartments, assisted living, residential care facilities, and finally, skilled nursing facilities... truly the housing and lifestyle options for seniors have changed dramatically over the last decade. Fortunately for today’s older adults, gone are the days when nursing homes were the only option available for adults who could no longer live completely independent lives. Today’s seniors have a myriad of options to choose from, depending on their personal preferences, financial circumstances, and the level of assistance they need. The key to making good decisions about the best housing alternative for an individual is acquiring accurate information, asking appropriate questions, and planning ahead. The first step in acquiring accurate information is understanding the differences between the types of senior living options. Facilities that call themselves retirement communities or retirement housing fall along a continuum that includes a wide range of services and programs, some modest and some comprehensive. Following are some common terms used to describe retirement housing, and basic descriptions of what each provides: Independent Senior Housing: (also called independent living or active adult communities) These privately-owned communities with detached homes, condominiums, or apartments, often offer scheduled social and recreational activities or even luxury amenities such as a swimming pool, golf course, or fitness center, and cater to a healthy and affluent older clientele. Transportation assistance or other limited services may also be available. Senior apartment complexes (often for lower income seniors) generally have individual apartments equipped with small kitchens. Apartments may or may not offer a common dining area. Some apartments also offer social and recreational activities on a limited basis. Assisted Living Facilities: These facilities offer a variety of living arrangements from modest shared rooms to fancy private apartments, and are geared for older adults who need assistance with some activities. Licensed by the State of Oklahoma, these facilities provide “intermittent” nursing care and assistance with medications and daily activities such as bathing and dress. There is typically an RN on duty at all times. Meals, laundry service, and housekeeping are included. Planned social activities are provided. Special diets are accommodated. Restorative care and therapies may be arranged, as well as physician visits, home health care, and hospice care. In most cases, residents pay monthly rent and additional fees based on service needs. Residential Care: Residential care facilities are generally small, home-like facilities that care for only a few adults, usually fewer than twelve. These facilities are licensed by the State of Oklahoma to provide assistance with medications, meals, movement, bathing, dressing, and other activities for residents who are ambulatory, perhaps with the use of a walker or wheelchair. They are not licensed for intermittent nursing care. An RN is on call, but on-site assistance is provided primarily by Certified Nurse Assistants or Certified Home Health Assistants. Dementia programs may be offered. Meals and housekeeping are provided. Social activities are planned. Restorative care and therapies may be arranged, as can physician visits, home health care, and hospice. Skilled Nursing Facilities: (Nursing Homes) Few people choose to move into a nursing home. The decision is usually forced by a sudden decline in their health or mental abilities, or by a gradual realization that they can no longer receive the care they need at home. The decision-maker is usually a primary care physician or member of their family. Nursing homes are licensed by the State of Oklahoma to provide two levels of care under the twenty-four-hour supervision of licensed nurses. A skilled nursing facility under Medicare offers rehabilitation services for a limited period of time. A convalescent care nursing facility offers long term care. Multi-level or Continuum Care Communities: These full-service communities offer a range of living options on one campus. Many include independent living, assisted living, and nursing home care, all on one campus. Meals, laundry, and housekeeping are generally included and activity programs are usually offered. Residents may move from one level of care to another as their needs change. To help seniors and their families gather information about housing options in the Tulsa area, LIFE Senior Services, a United Way agency, publishes The Vintage Guide to Housing and Services. A free publication, The Vintage Guide is a tremendous resource for families beginning their housing search. It lists all housing options for Tulsa-area seniors, along with complete facility descriptions, amenities, services, and pricing information. In addition to the Guide, LIFE Senior Services also offers individual resource counseling through its Caregiver Support Services. LIFE’s Certified Information and Referral Specialists are available to help guide families in their search for the best housing solution or visit with them about aging and caregiving issues. These services are available to the community free of charge. To order your copy of The Vintage Guide or to visit with a caregiver support specialist, please call SeniorLine at 664-9000. COMPLETE FUNERALS FROM $2,995 Redeem this coupon for $700 off. May be used on pre-arrangements also. 1916 S. Sheridan Tulsa 1501 W. Main Collinsville 918-838-1332 918-371-1178 AdamsCrest Cremation Center For people who want things simple. Covering the entire state of Oklahoma. 100 OFF $ cremation services with this ad. Call for free literature. 838-2110 or 1-877-992-2110 What Do These People Have In Common? They Made The Right Choice. Ask residents why they chose Inverness Village, Now Open, Tulsa’s first and only true life care community is over 70% reserved! Call today for best selection. and you’ll get answers as individual as the people themselves. For some, it’s maintenance-free living with concierge-level services and amenities. For others, it’s the wide array of activities, with opportunities to meet new friends and neighbors. Still others like the idea of a full continuum of on-site health care and flexible financial plans providing solid estate protection for the future. Each has a vision of their ideal retirement lifestyle, yet all agree Tulsa’s first and only life care community is the right choice for them. Located on 190 acres in an uncongested, convenient neighborhood setting near The Oaks Country Club, we offer a stimulating environment that focuses on preventive health, personal growth and life enrichment. Call (918) 388-4235 or toll-free (877) 481-9988 to schedule a tour today. There’s a good chance it could be the right choice for you, too. The Right Choice For All Life Can Be. 3800 W. 71st Street • Tulsa, OK 74132 • (918) 388-4235 • Toll-free (877) 481-9988 • www.invernessvillage.com February 2004 COMMUNITY SPIRIT 13 SENIOR LIVING Do You Hear What I Hear? Getting Past the Stigma of Buying That First Hearing Aid does your wife complain that the TV is too loud? Are you constantly getting onto your kids telling them not to mumble? Are you straining to hear discussions in the board room or at a restaurant? Are you suddenly complaining that your preacher’s microphone isn’t loud enough? Then maybe it is time to face the fact that your hearing isn’t what it used to be. If so, you are not alone. Approximately twenty-eight million Americans have a hearing impairment, and hearing loss is one of the most prevalent chronic health conditions in the United States, affecting people of all ages, in all segments of the population, and across all socioeconomic levels. About 30 percent of all people sixty-five or older have hearing loss. And if you are among the baby boomers, the chances of needing a O KAY, so hearing aid is higher than any generation before us… (Blame it on Led Zeppelin and the others). Now you can use the old “cup your hand over one ear” solution. It alone can increase the sound at the eardrum membrane by 15 decibels in some frequencies. That is about twenty times the power of the sound if the hand was not there. But lets face it, holding your hand to your ear is hard on your posture, as well as being a dead giveaway to the upcoming twenty-five-year-olds that maybe it is time for “the old guy” to retire. Hearing loss can be hereditary, or it can result from disease, trauma, or long-term exposure to damaging noise or medications. Hearing loss can vary from a mild but Some people think carpet shopping’s a hassle. The rest shop here. www.Grigsby.com 6335 East 41st • Tulsa, OK 74135 • 918-627-6996 H-97860 14 STAINMASTER®, STAINMASTER Ultra Life® and DuPont Flooring Center® are DuPont registered trademarks. ™DuPont trademark. ©2002 The DuPont Company COMMUNITY SPIRIT February 2004 important loss of sensitivity to a total loss of hearing. You can forget the memories of the bulky, squealing earpiece that your granddad wore, which is nothing like the digital technology available today. Hearing aids are available that will provide you with excellent sound reproduction, yet which are hidden inside the ear and nearly unnoticeable. So actually, there is little reason that you should be straining to hear, and life is too short to be missing anything. Run to a qualified audiologist and get tested. (We recommend either ClearTone or Economy Hearing Aid Labs). Now, should they inform you that you need a hearing aid, listen to them and make a promise to yourself that you will not only buy the hearing aids, but that you will also use them! Nearly 30 percent of people who buy their first hearing aid end up putting them in a drawer. Sorry, they can’t help you there. According to professional audiologists, our ears need practice when fitted with hearing aids. Inactive hair cells in the inner ear will, when out of action, atrophy like the muscles in those once twenty-inch biceps of yours. This means that the brain no longer receives any signals and loses its ability to identify and decode some sound signals. The hair cells must be retrained. That is the task of the hearing aids. They must bring some life back into the hair cells. This is best achieved by using the hearing aids at least eight hours a day. As with any other rehabilitation or training, the longer and more consistently you work out, the better the results. Thus, it is important not to limit the use of your hearing aids to special occasions or settings, but to wear them at other times as well, even when you are home alone. The ears need to adapt to all kinds of everyday sounds, including for example the humming of the refrigerator. There is not one but many ways in which a person can deal with hearing loss. And when it comes to choosing hearing aids, it goes without saying that the type of hearing aids which will work best for you naturally depends not only on your specific hearing loss but also on who you are, your lifestyle, and the circumstances in which the hearing aids are supposed to help you. Your audiologist can help you make the right choice and give you tips on how to adjust to wearing them. So don’t miss a single word! Get tested, buy the latest technology, and start enjoying life again. The sound of a perfectly hit golf ball, the sound of the initial splash when that five pounder hits your lure, or the sound of that deer quietly coming through the brush all await you. Put the pride away and choose to hear again. February 2004 COMMUNITY SPIRIT 15 SENIOR LIVING Practicing Significance Are You Prepared for the Second Half of Your Life? A All he asks is your attention and in return he believes that he can help turn your “retirement” into the most productive time of your life. Phil Smith has been highly successful in business. He has a mechanical engineering degree and an MBA and was in the oil and gas production business for almost thirty years. During that time, he held positions from field engineering to CEO and Chairman of the Board. And through those years, he says that he made many mistakes, but he is determined to “spend the rest of my life trying to do better.” How many of us are in the same boat? No matter how successful the first half of your life has been, don’t you dream that the second half will be even better? Yet at retirement, all too many of us trade our goals and abilities for a leisurely life on the golf course or on the lake. Though there is nothing wrong with having a good time, isn’t it a shame that society expects us to “retire” (stop) from doing anything productive? From growing and learning to do new things, to expanding our business, to our involvement at church, retirement has a tendency to “put us all out to How often do you get a pasture.” chance to make a real And in the difference in this world? process, Phil believes that Christian Foster Parents our society and especialare making a difference... ly our churches lose out on the skills and resources of the most highly trained, most capable 5151 East 51st Street, Suite 101 • Tulsa, Oklahoma 74135 group. Phil RE YOU SOCKING MONEY AWAY for that “Golden Age” of retirement? “Though you might be putting money into that IRA each year, money is only one part of the puzzle,” says retired executive, Phil Smith. Retired at fifty-two, Phil made a study out of retirement. He read every book he could find on the subject hoping to discover the secret to contentment, fulfillment, usefulness, and significance... all in all, to make sure the rest of his life was even better than the first. In the process, he discovered many lessons that he now wants to share with those who are retired, or those who plan to someday retire. Not after monetary gain, he offers a unique class about getting the most out of the second half of your life. He doesn’t want your money, nor does he want to sell you anything. He is not a broker, salesman, or financial advisor. No, the lessons he offers are given totally at his expense. One hundred years from now, it won’t matter how big your house was, what kind of car you drove, or how much money you had in the bank... What will matter is how much of a difference you’ve made in the life of a child. ..... Foster a e m o c e B Parent 1-877-663-1650 16 COMMUNITY SPIRIT February 2004 Phil Smith, Author of Practicing Significance believes that he can help you turn that “retirement” into “a life of significance.” Defining the word “significance” as “Glorifying God by fulfilling your unique purposes,” he encourages people to find significance by helping them to discover their unique purposes and act to fulfill them. Phil explains it like this. “The smart and fortunate ones among us will not only prepare for the second half, but will relish and enjoy the process and be rewarded by having the second half of their lives be more fulfilling, contented, joyful, and energetic than the first half of their lives. These fortunate ones learn about themselves, and so become more realistic. They learn about the new rules and reward systems, and so they aren’t resentful. They learn about new opportunities and even create new opportunities. They adjust so well, that they would never dream about going back to the drudgery and pressures of the first half. They are the ones who learn to practice significance.” Are you experiencing the “Halftime” of your life? One of Phil’s favorite books on retirement is Halftime, by Bob Buford. The book explains that we all reach a critical time in our lives when we should stop and search for that clearer picture of the life we were intended to live. Like a football player at halftime, we can look back at our good plays and not-so-good ones. We can then prepare for the second half, determined to learn from our mistakes. Armed with the lessons in Phil’s class, we can leave the locker room and hit the playing field with confidence, not looking back at the first half, but rather anxious for the challenges of the second. Lesson Outline The material in this study covers a wide range of topics that are critical to successfully turning “retirement “into “significance.” Here is the outline of the course. I. Introduction to Practicing Significance II. Purposes and Goals Understanding Your Purposes Outline of The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren Setting Your Goals Making and Executing Your Life Plan III. Financial Lessons Personal Finance Estate Planning Investing Life Insurance and Annuities Other Insurance Financial Advisors Financial Issues for Retirees IV. Giving Lessons Giving to Non-Profit Organizations Family Gifting Volunteering The Passionate Few V. Life Lessons Aging - Physical Considerations Aging - Mental Considerations Aging - Preparing for Retirement Planning for the Inevitable Care Giving for Aging Parents/ Spouses Grandparenting Learning Travel Marriage, Divorce and Remarriage What Next? We pray that this brief explanation has caught your attention. Maybe you have a friend or parent that could benefit from this study. Maybe you are a pastor, minister, or church leader and you want to help pull you seniors out of retirement. Or, maybe it is you who could use this study. We encourage you to log-on to the website at www.practicingsignificance.com. Read through some of the materials. The entire lessons are there either for your individual study or for use in leading the course at your church. Or, you may want to contact Phil Smith to investigate having him personally conduct an overview on this totally free, yet highly productive course. The continually updated information on the website is easily available to churches of any size. In addition, the site acts as a resource base for reference material on the subject of retirement as well as on effective church programs that are actually being used. What do you have to lose? More importantly, what do you have to gain? You just may discover the secret of turning your “Golden Years” into “Priceless” ones. Additional Resources on the Subject HalfTime by Bob Buford, Zondervan Publishing, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 1994 Halftime - Participant’s Guide by Buford, Bob, Zondervan Publishing, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 1994 Game Plan by Bob Buford, Zondervan Publishing, Grand Rapids, Michigan Stuck in Halftime (note: a good resource appendix) by Bob Buford, Zondervan Publishing, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 2001 The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren, Zondervan Publishing, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 2002 You’re 50, Now What? by Charles Schwab, Three Rivers Press, January 2002 Wealth to Last by Larry Burkett and Ron Blue, Broadman and Holdman Publishing, October, 2003 www.Halftime.org Winners’ Wisdom B Y J I M S TO VA L L Dreams Do Come True I RECENTLY HEARD A DEBATE among academ- ics, politicians, theologians, and businesspeople discussing the eternal question, “Do dreams really come true?” This debate was conducted on an extremely intellectual level, and after two hours, they had not reached any meaningful conclusion. Let me, for the sake of those curious souls, cut to the chase and assure you that dreams do, indeed, come true. This is not based on any theory or outdated philosophy. It is based on day-in, day-out, real-life evidence from people just like you and me. From every corner of the globe, dealing with every circumstance imaginable, in any arena of life, people are continuing to set goals, work toward them, and live out their dreams. Succeeding in this fashion is not a matter of age, talent, education, social standing, or connections. Success comes from several steps that are as old as time and as relevant as your next breath. 1. Set a goal. In order to hit a target, you must have one. Success is not an obscure, ethereal concept. It is a very specific dream that burns inside the hearts and minds of real live people. Their individual ideas of success will vary from one extreme to the other, but in their own mind everyone who succeeds has a firm idea and understanding of how they define success. 2. Count the cost. There is no free lunch. Dreams do, indeed, come true, but they require work, diligence, sacrifice, and focus. 3. Form a plan. Setting a February 2004 goal and counting the cost is of little value unless you are committed to a practical, step-by-step, daily plan to get you from where you are to where you want to be. A journey of a thousand miles does, indeed, begin with the first step. As elementary as this seems, most people do not fail over the thousandmile journey, they fail to simply take that first step. 4. Celebrate your ongoing success and that of others. As you progress toward your dream, stop along the way to enjoy the progress you have made thus far. Observe those around you who are succeeding in making their dreams come true. Remember that no one’s success diminishes your own potential. There is plenty of room at the top. As you observe other people succeeding, it should reinforce the fact that your success is possible, and if you continue to work your plan, it is a virtual certainty. Once you are convinced by the success of others around you that dreams do come true, the only question left remaining is, “Will your own dream come true, or will it go to the grave with you?” As you go through your day today, consider not only the price to be paid in order to live out your dreams, but also consider the costly price to be paid if you fail to live out your dreams. Today’s the day! Jim Stovall is the president of Narrative Television Network, as well as a published author, columnist, and motivational speaker. He may be reached at 5840 South Memorial Drive, Suite 312, Tulsa, OK 74145-9082, or by email at [email protected]. COMMUNITY SPIRIT 17 SENIOR LIVING The Mature Driver BY CHUCK MAI, AAA OKLAHOMA changes begin to occur in their basic sensory and cognitive functions. In fact, research has shown that many age-related problems can significantly affect an individual’s driving performance. These changes, however, are usually so gradual that a driver may be unaware of them. As a result, the driver fails to compensate for ensuing limitations. Age-related performance changes do not occur in all people at the same time or to the same degree. Physiological changes happen at different stages of life, with many changes beginning even before people reach licensing age. For instance, the eye’s ability to focus peaks at about age fourteen. Hearing ability usually peaks at age fifteen. Other gradual changes begin early in the driving career: visual acuity begins to decline in the mid- to late twenties, and the eye’s field of vision starts to narrow in the late thirties. These and other physiological changes generally accelerate after age fifty. Overall, agerelated changes—both physiological and psychological—usually become significant enough to affect driving performance near age sixty. A S PEOPLE AGE, Collision Experience of Mature Drivers As a group, mature operators—defined as anyone fifty-five and older, about 29 percent of the driving population—have fewer collisions than younger drivers. However, the annual mileage traveled by older drivers is much less. Consequently, on a per-mile basis, mature operators actually have a higher crash rate than other drivers, and they tend to be responsible for the collisions in which they are involved. Plus, their likelihood of being injured or killed in a crash is greater. Cognitive Limitations Driving places critical demands on both short-term memory and the ability to integrate information simultaneously from several sources. The result is that many older people have trouble retrieving information normally recaptured quickly from short-term memory. Thus, many drivers may have difficulty operating in unfamiliar areas as well as processing and retrieving cues to hazardous situations quickly enough to react safely. Responding appropriately to traffic signs and signals, recognizing newer traffic designations, and adjusting to altered patterns and roadway design are also common challenges. Compounding this problem is an increased difficulty in filtering out unimportant visual information. Fixation on irrelevant objects and events can distract the driver, and failure to screen out trivial details requires the driver to mentally sort through the irrelevant data, complicating and lengthening the task of interpreting critical information. Hearing Limitations The ability to hear warning sirens and train whistles at railroad crossings and to respond to horns of other drivers is obviously related to safety. It is equally obvious that the incidence of deafness and hardness of hearing rises sharply with age. In fact, hearing impairments that affect fewer than 2 percent of persons under age seventeen increase to 24 percent of those between sixty-five and seventy-four years old and afflict 39 percent of persons over age seventy-four. Limitations of Movement Rheumatism and arthritis are much more common in older people than younger people. Such disabilities may contribute to a tendency to swing wide before turning—a practice that makes the turning movement less physically demanding but that also invites lane sharing on the part of other drivers. Arthritic joints in the legs or arms may also make it difficult to react quickly to sudden changes in a traffic situation. The limited dexterity of mature drivers can make looking at mirrors and turning their heads to check behind more challenging. Such physical movements are important to reducing the likelihood of colliding with objects in a driver’s blind spot and backing into objects. Does the experience of mature drivers make up for their physical limitations? Unfortunately, not completely. Mature drivers must compensate for limitations. Experience does not remove the motorcycle from the blind spot or make unfamiliar traffic situations suddenly familiar. AAA Oklahoma offers an accident prevention program designed to make persons of all ages better drivers. The seven-hour classroom course also qualifies participants for a discount on their auto insurance premiums for up to three years. To sign up for the program or for more information, please contact AAA in Tulsa at 748-1031. This motor vehicle accident prevention course is also offered in Oklahoma City. Call (405) 945-3208. Where Customers Send Their Friends Exit Hwy 51 East to Hwy 69 South • Wagoner www.grovercars.com Take a Short Drive To Savings! 18 COMMUNITY SPIRIT February 2004 Election Year 2004! Be Alert to the Political Challenges Ahead! C H A R L E S B I G G S , P U B L I S H E R O F T H E T U L S A B E AC O N tion funding. That vote could come next fall. Republican strategists are convinced that the GOP can capture the Oklahoma House in November and eventually the Senate. Part of that optimism is based on the fact that Oklahoma is a conservative state. Every Republican candidate for president has won Oklahoma since Lyndon Johnson (a Democrat) in 1964. As the national Democratic party drifts to the left, more and more Oklahomans seem to be voting for conservative Republican candidates. In Tulsa, the nine members of the City Council will be up for re-election March 9. The Council has five Republicans and four Democrats and all will probably run again. Mayor Bill LaFortune serves a four–year term and will not face re-election until 2005. LaFortune targeted Christian voters in his 2002 campaign and they were instrumental in his election. The Council has gone to great lengths to avoid controversy but their unanimous vote to support a one penny county sales tax Want to keep a close conservative eye on all the upcoming campaigns? We suggest that you subscribe to The Tulsa Beacon Newspaper.The weekly insights of this newspaper will provide you a fair view of what is going on in local, state, and national politics.To subscribe, call 583-4425. have you encountered storms in your ministry? in your personal life? find your way through the storms. BOB YANDIAN’S 2004 MINISTERS’ CONFERENCE HE COURSE OF AMERICA may take a sharp turn in 2004. Federal, state and local elections could help firm the sagging morals of the country or could pave the way for a course away from Christianity and traditional morality. On a national level, American voters will re-elect President Bush or one of nine or ten Democratic nominees. Bush is a conservative who supports traditional marriage, is pro-life and has emphasized a strong military. He signed the partial-birth abortion ban—the same bill vetoed twice by former President Clinton. All of the Democrats are pro-abortion and would pledge themselves to maximizing abortion on demand. None of the Democrats oppose homosexual rights and some even support homosexual marriage. Between 2004 and 2008, the president could nominate as many as three Supreme Court justices. Bush favors conservatives, although his father nominated David Souter, who is a left-leaning moderate. Former President Ronald Reagan nominated Sandra Day O’Conner, who does not have a conservative judicial record. All of the Democrats would nominate moderate-liberal judges who tend to make law instead of interpreting law in light of the U.S. Constitution. A second term for George W. Bush could mean the overturning of Roe v. Wade. A victory by a Democrat could mean twenty to thirty years of a Court with a liberal bent. In Oklahoma, Sen. Don Nickles will retire. U.S. Rep. Brad Carson, who worked on Clinton’s election campaigns, has the inside track for the Democratic nomination. Former Oklahoma City Mayor Kirk Humphries leads what will be a growing field for the GOP nomination. A Democratic victory in that race could shift the balance of power in the Senate, where the GOP owns a two-vote majority. In Oklahoma, term limits will take effect for the first time in the November 3 election. About one third of the state representatives and senators from the Tulsa metropolitan area will be forced to retire. The Democrats now control both houses of the Legislature and Gov. Brad Henry is a Democrat. Henry stunned state conservatives by pushing for a public vote on a lottery that would supposedly be devoted to educa- T increase for Vision 2025 may not set well with conservative voters, especially with some in South Tulsa. Republican support for the county tax increase last year came while conservatives in the Legislature battled state tax increases and President Bush pushed through income tax cuts. While Christians decide on how involved they should be in politics, several pertinent issues arose in 2003. The banning of the Ten Commandments in Alabama, the acceptance of homosexual marriage in Canada, the striking down of sodomy laws in Texas and scattered cases of religious discrimination against Christians in this country point to the need of involvement in the process. There are more conservative Christian voters than Teamster voters, yet the unions get a better turnout of actual voters. The winds of change are blowing and Christians will have little room to complain if they don’t vote and vote for politicians who represent their core values. A MINISTER ’ S GUIDE TO SURVIVING THE STORMS OF LIFE MARCH 31, APRIL 1 and 2 GRACE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH 9610 South Garnett Tulsa, OK 74133 1 . 8 0 0 . 2 8 4 . 0 5 9 5 www.precepts.com February 2004 COMMUNITY SPIRIT 19 Looking Your Best CLASSIC, CONTEMPORARY PLATINUM OR GOLD A L W AY S E X C E P T I O N A L Tulsa’s only JA Certified Master Jeweler Hours: M-F 9-6 Sat 9-4 DIAMONDS & DESIGNS 6136 E. 51st Street • 622-1996 www.feltsdesigns.com Laser Hair Removal Now there is a safe, fast and effective way to remove unwanted facial and body hair for both men and women. Discover the clear advantage of the gentle power of light... featuring the Candela GentleLASE system, the world’s most trusted name in aesthetic laser technology. Call 294-8844 today to schedule your free consultation. Laser Services @ www.fmct.com Experts in Laser Vision Correction Microdermabrasion– Is it Right for You? anti-aging treatment. In fact, millions of women (and men) are finding that the new technique called Microdermabrasion can help to make them look their best. The procedure removes dead and flaking skin cells to help stimulate the production of fresh young skin cells and collagen. Growing in popularity daily, microdermabrasion is being called the ultimate advancement in non-surgical, non-invasive skin conditioning. Microdermabrasion treatments are said to provide immediate improvement in the skin’s appearance. Fine lines, (crow’s feet), and age spots may be erased, and many patients report that their skin is softer, smoother, and younger-looking. Treatments are often targeted to the eyes, lips, neck, and hands. So how does it work and what is involved? Microdermabrasion is a superficial skin polishing treatment. Using a delicate hand piece, micro-crystals are vacuumed to deliver a gentle abra- I T ’S THE LATEST sion. The treatments are often completed within thirty minutes, and most people schedule a course of biweekly sessions ranging from a couple to as many as twelve. Generally, the treatments are spaced two to three weeks apart. Microdermabrasion is considered by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery to be an effective treatment to smooth the skin and decrease scarring from acne, chickenpox, and other small facial scars. It is also used to decrease hyperpigmentation, uneven texture, and the effects of sun-damaged skin. There are virtually no side effects and the procedure is effective on all skin colors. No anesthetic is required and normal activities can be resumed immediately. Microdermabrasion may be combined with a light chemical peel to increase the effect. Also, an individualize skin care program is often recommended to maximize and maintain the results. Imagine a more youthful looking you... Nearsightedness • Farsightedness • Astigmatism ASK ABOUT OUR FREE SCREENING! Marc L. Abel, D.O. J. Harley Galusha, D.O. Brian F. Williams, O.D. Joe Cope, O.D. Brett Enyart, O.D. 6140 S. Memorial, Tulsa Toll Free 1.800.325.0113 252.2020 3131 Military Blvd, Muskogee 918.687.6600 1.877.325.0113 $100 3233 E. 31st St. Ste 202, Tulsa 918.743.9494 OFF Per Eye With Ad Offer Expires February 29, 2004 20 COMMUNITY SPIRIT February 2004 Clean up your skin with MICRODERMABRASION Blemishes • Fine Lines • Acne Scarring • Aging Skin Before LASER HAIR REMOVAL Chin • Upper Lip • Legs • Underarms • Back • Chest • Arms • Necks Tulsa•250-2262 Bartlesville•331-2273 $10 Off One Microdermabrasion After You Can Have White Youthful Teeth Again HERE ARE ALL KINDS of bleaches available over the counter at local drug and grocery stores. And many will do an adequate job of brightening your smile. However, the products available through your professional dentist are normally more powerful and effective. Many of the procedures require the routine use of messy bleaching trays, strips, and multiple visits. But there is a procedure offered by Community Spirit supporters and advertisers Dr. Mark Hodge and Dr. Robert Mongrain, that can restore that brilliant smile in only one hour. In fact, the revolutionary BriteSmile Treatment is: • Very Effective—clinical studies prove BriteSmile gets great results. • Safe—administered by a licensed dentist and validated by T a study published in The Journal of the American Dental Association. • Convenient—sit back and relax for one hour; uses advanced, non laser technology so you don’t have to use messy bleaching trays, strips or make multiple office visits. • Guaranteed—you’ll have whiter teeth in just one hour. • A Great Value—you’ll enjoy your smile because the results can last for years. As we age, there are many ailments and maladies that are unavoidable, but having stained, darkened teeth should not be one of them. You can have that white, clean smile again. Its not a matter of “sex-appeal.” It’s a matter of having the confidence to smile again. You can receive more information about this procedure by calling Dr. Hodge and Dr. Mongrain’s office at 250-9520. Call today to schedule a free appointment: Dr. Mark Hodge Dr. Robert Mongrain Certified Invisalign Dentists 7705 East 81st Street,Tulsa, OK 74133 (918) 250-9520 Go Wireless! February 2004 COMMUNITY SPIRIT 21 Region’s Largest Children’s & Maternity Consignment Sale Shop 30,000 square feet of name brand clothing for Children, Teens and Maternity. Furniture items, toys and baby equipment all under one roof! With over 50,000 items to choose from, you won’t want to miss it! If you would like to be a consignor and earn 70%, contact coordinators Shannon Wilburn and Daven Tackett: 918-477-2345 TULSA’S TRADE CENTER AT EXPO SQUARE “Friends Helping Friends, That’s How it Should Be” 21st and Yale Monday - Sunday, March 8-14, 2004 www.jbfsale.com If all you get is MAD after listening to other talk stations, try ours! 7:00 a.m. 9:00 a.m. 11:30 a.m. 1:00 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 5:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m. Insight for Living Chuck Swindoll Family Life Today Dennis Rainey Focus on the Family Dr. James Dobson Point of View Marlin Maddoux Money Matters Crown Financials New Life Live (Psychology) Steven Arterburn America’s Family Coaches Gary & Barbara Rosberg TALK RADIO THAT MAKES YOU BETTER... NOT BITTER. 22 COMMUNITY SPIRIT February 2004 Lindsay Roberts’ Women’s Conference Goes Deeper BY KAREN HARDIN CALL TO WOR- A SHIP AND PRAYER is the theme for Lindsay Roberts’ seventeenth annual women’s conference, which runs March 4-6 at the ORU Mabee center. But according Roberts, this year’s conference will be very different. The difference stems from real-life issues Roberts has faced personally in recent months, issues which compelled her to go deeper for answers. While prayer and good music are typical and expected features at this annual meeting, Roberts’ conference seeks to unite them to take the believer to a deeper level spiritually. That “deeper level” is something that Lindsay and her husband, Richard— evangelist and president of Oral Roberts University—experienced firsthand after a series of personal events. “According to the Bible we are living in perilous times. We have never felt that to be more true,” shared Roberts. “After our daughter was involved in a horrible car collision this past October, we were facing the physical and emotional aspects of a severe accident. The only thing we could do was pray. That kind of prayer changes your life. In the last six months, Richard and I have found ourselves in situations such as the accident that have propelled us to a new dimension of prayer and intercession that we had never before experienced. It has involved a place of deep worship in which miracles began to break out. It has been amazing.” However, bringing this new depth of prayer and worship to the conference is only Roberts’ first goal. The second is teaching women how to take it home with them. “It’s one thing to be in a service in which you experience the miraculous presence of God, but can it last?” continued Roberts. “We don’t want this conference to be like a trip to the hairdresser where you receive a new style, but when you go home and try to do it yourself, you look like an idiot! This conference will not only take people into a deeper dimension of prayer and worship, but it will teach them how to take that atmosphere home with them to experience daily.” In addition to the women’s conference, Roberts has four new books being released this month by Tulsa-based Harrison House Publishers. Her new books in the Make Your Day Count Devotional series feature stories from wellknown Christian women such as Gloria Copeland, Marilyn Hickey, Taffi Dollar, Sharon Daugherty, Dee Simmons, Cathy Duplantis and many more. The entertaining devotionals provide practical teaching, easy recipes, time-saving tips and Scriptural application, perfect for the busy woman. The four book series includes: Make Your Day Count for Women Make Your Day Count for Mothers Make Your Day Count for Teens Make Your Day Count for Teachers Each book retails for $14.99 and is available at Family Christian Stores, Mardels, Wal-mart, Sam’s Wholesale Club, as well as at the upcoming conference. Featured speakers at this year’s conference include: Richard and Lindsay Roberts, Joyce Meyer, Dr. Pat Bailey and Marty Goetz. Service times are Thursday, March 4 at 7:00 p.m., Friday; March 5 at 10:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., and Saturday at 10:00 a.m. The conference is free. For additional information call 918495-7944. Evangelistic Temple School is proud to announce the addition of a High School to our current program! The 2004-05 school term will see the addition of ninth grade to the existing prekindergarten through eighth grade program. One grade will be added each year thereafter. If you are looking for a school with a reputation for excellence and a staff that is committed to the academic and spiritual development of every student, you’ll find it at Evangelistic Temple School! Courses in Art, music, Spanish, computers, and physical education supplement the basics. ETS is accredited by the Association of Christian Schools International and the State of Oklahoma. Visit us at www.etstulsa.com or call 743-5597 to request enrollment information. Now enrolling for 2004-05 Call 743-5597 1339 E. 55th Street www.ETStulsa.com February 2004 COMMUNITY SPIRIT 23 Good Stewardship B Y R A N DY C . C O W E L L , M . S . , L U T C F, C F P, C S A Women Must Become Savvy Money Managers HEN I LOOK BACK at my financial planning career, I have worked with several occupational groups predominated by women. From dental hygienists to teachers, each has presented its own unique planning challenge. Generally speaking, it’s no secret that women are overlooked when it comes to financial planning. But why? William L. Anthes, Ph.D., President of the National Endowment for Financial Education, identifies several of the reasons women in America are finding it difficult to become financially independent. “Historically, women have relied on men for their financial support. Many also are conditioned to believe that they cannot competently handle money. While this attitude toward financial independency is changing, it remains a powerful force in America. That’s why it is increasingly important in today’s financially complex world for women to focus on the steps they can take W to become more savvy money managers.” Here are some sobering facts that might get your attention. • According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Women have a life expectancy of six years longer than men. Consequently, seven out of ten women will outlive their husbands. • Older women are more likely to depend on Social Security as their sole support, making them twice as likely to live in poverty. (National Organization for Women). • Based on research done by the Women’s Institute for a Secure Retirement, women average 73 cents for every dollar earned by men. This and the fact that many women leave the workplace to raise their children or serve as caregivers translates into a lesser retirement benefit. “For every year that a woman stays out of the workforce, it takes her five years to recover lost income pension coverage and career advancement.” (National Endowment for Financial Education.) • Since men usually will have someone to care for them, widowed women are more likely to find themselves alone with no one to assist them. According to the Administration on Aging, women are twice as likely to live in a nursing home as men. • According to the National Center for Women and Retirement Research, eight in ten women will be the sole financial decision maker at some point in their lives due to divorce or widowhood. Steps You Can Take Now that I have your undivided attention, let’s discuss some steps you can take to avoid 24 COMMUNITY SPIRIT February 2004 and overcome these potential problems. Become familiar with your financial situation. The chances that you will one day be solely responsible for your own welfare are too great to ignore. Share in the financial decisions of the household and strive to be more educated in the areas of investments and insurance. This knowledge could be invaluable if you should survive your spouse. Keep your marketable business skills up-to-date in the event of the untimely death of your spouse or a divorce. The more current your skills the more options you will have. Understand your and your husband’s retirement plans. Women are afforded certain rights under the law which guarantee that you can receive a portion of your husband’s retirement. Unfortunately, these rights are often signed away when the wife opts for the “life only” payout option. Never accept this option without a careful analysis of all pension options. Since the statistical odds of longevity are in your favor, there are two things that you can do to safeguard your future. First, purchase a long-term care policy as soon as you can, the earlier the better! If you can’t afford a policy on both spouses, seriously consider only insuring the wife. Secondly, ensure that there is adequate life insurance on both spouses to ensure that the financial needs of either spouse will be met when the inevitable happens. Remember, at the death of a spouse, each of you will lose the other’s Social Security income, so why not insure it? Make certain that the proper legal documents have been drafted for estate planning purposes. Your wills, living wills, medical directives, and trust documents should be reviewed by an estate planning attorney to ensure they are current and up to date. I think Tammy Wynette summed up these findings in the lyrics of her song “Sometimes it’s hard to be a woman.” The good news is that women are becoming more knowledgeable about their circumstances and better equipped to handle their own finances. However, there is a lot of work yet to be done. If you find yourself doubting whether or not you understand your current circumstances, seek out competent financial help. The bible encourages us to “seek wise counsel.” Randy C. Cowell is a columnist, author, and president of ACT Financial Services, Inc. in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He recently published his first book, God Good-Debt Bad, and welcomes your thoughts and prayers. He can be reached at (918) 664-0081 or by e-mail at [email protected]. Heart & Home B Y N . DA N E T Y N E R Love In Every Language S MACK IN THE MIDDLE of most Februarys is a special holiday devoted to love—Valentine’s Day. Of course, we Christians are supposed to love everybody, even the revolting and obnoxious. This holiday is certainly not about the “love-everybody” kind of love. Valentine’s Day is a celebration of love, not based in moral duty but in delight of the heart. The main focus is on romantic love, but the holiday encompasses more. Perhaps a result of the efforts of the marketing department of Hallmark®, the celebration has certainly been broadened. We give Valentine cards and gifts to our parents, children, and friends. Though the central theme of Valentine’s Day is still love of “sweethearts,” the broader theme encompasses all love that involves the affections of our heart. Thank God for this kind of love. I am glad to love others in this way, and I’m glad to be loved by others in this way. Aren’t you? Have you heard of the “Five Love Languages”? A book by that title, written by Dr. Gary Chapman, has this subtitle: “How to express heartfelt commitment to your mate.” The operative word in the subtitle is “heartfelt.” The point of the book is to help people communicate love in a manner that allows that love to be felt in the heart, not just known in the head. When, in certain relationships, love is not felt in the heart, it will not long be believed in the head. For love to be felt in the heart it must be communicated in a language familiar to the heart. Here is the gist of “the five love languages” as put forth by Chapman. We humans communicate love in five different lan- guages. They are: 1) Words of affirmation, 2) Quality time, 3) Receiving gifts, 4) Acts of service, and 5) Physical touch. Chapman states that each of us tends to have one or two of the five that stand out in importance to us. The one or two that stand out for me are not necessarily the same as my wife’s. The trick is to know what her main love languages are and speak my love in those languages. If I am successful, she will feel my love in her heart. If I fail to adequately convey my love in those most important languages, she will not feel my love in her heart and will eventually begin to doubt my love in her head. Not long ago I ran into a fellow who had previously come with his wife for marriage counseling. He told me again how helpful the love language material had been to him. He used to drop by a convenience store on his way home and buy his wife a pretty flower. After he discovered that “receiving gifts” was at the bottom of her list and “acts of service” was at the top, he altered his method of communicating love. He began loading the dishwasher regularly and was amazed at the difference in her response. Let me encourage you to get to know the love languages of those dear to you. Then, make sure you are communicating in those languages. If you have trouble with this, seek and persist until you have found the help you need. The quality of your most important relationships depends on it. Dane Tyner is founder and director of Home Improvement Ministry. H.I.M. is a Christian counseling ministry with offices in Cityplex Towers in Tulsa. Contact the ministry at 918.492.4811. Visit the ministry website at www.forhim.org. February 2004 COMMUNITY SPIRIT 25 10% Off 10032 South Sheridan Phone: 918-296-0667 Expires 2/29/04 Chinese Kitchen Fax: 918-296-0876 MARK CLOSE Roofing & Construction Inc. “Since 1988” We Give You the Best Roof for Your Money Fully Insured Workman’s Comp Member BBB Free with each New Roof: • 04-Roof Vents • Heavy Felt Paper • Painted metal edge • 5 Year Written Warranty 371-9677 See our ad in the Shepherd’s Guide Phone Book Ask about our Painting & Guttering Specials with a New Roof! Coupon Expires 07-04-04 300 $1000 $ Full Service Car Wash Brushless Spot Free We Care For Your Car Inside & Out! OFF OFF GOLD OR PLATINUM PACKAGE COMPLETE DETAIL PACKAGE Extra Charge For Oversize or Muddy Vehicles 4222 S. Memorial Dr. Tulsa, OK 74145 6510 E. 71st Street Tulsa, OK 74135 4637 S. Peoria Tulsa, OK 74105 627-8015 494-6091 749-0602 Limit One Coupon Per Visit • Not Valid With Other Offers • Must Be Present At Time Of Service • Expires 3-31-04 $100 Off any whole sandwich 7719 E. 91st Street Tulsa, OK 74133 918-249-8404 Fax 918-249-8911 Valid at this location only. One coupon per purchase. Expires 2/29/04 26 COMMUNITY SPIRIT February 2004 Body Defined 918.407.7532 Personal Training • Tired of the ‘cookie-cutter’ approach to fitness? We’ll customize your program to meet your goals. • Complete nutritional consultation, body comp analysis, tracking and monitoring. • Gym membership included. • Body fat reduced from 37.6% to 20.4% • Over 30 pounds of body fat lost Resolution Made... Resolution Kept! ACE, NESTA, AMFPT, AFPA Certified | www.body-defined.com r Is You ade M Matcheaven in H ing Go gh Throul? Hel Call Always Solutions Counseling Services for a new perspective. Licensed Professional Counselor. Expertise in Adolescent & Family Health. 4870 South Lewis, Suite 125 Tulsa, OK 74105 • 918.352.1081 0DNLQJ0XVLFZLWK<RXU/LIH 92&$/&2$&+,1* 'HYHORSLQJ &RQILGHQW,PSDFWIXO6LQJHUV &DULQJ3RVLWLYH0RWLYDWLQJ (PSKDVLVRQ7UDLQLQJIRU:256+,3 ([FHOOHQW5HIHUHQFHV$YDLODEOH &DOO'HERUD%DUUHWW News Around Town An Evening of Praise with Dennis Jernigan & Debra Ramirez to be held Feb. 28th On Friday, February 28, 2004at 7:00 p.m., come join hearts with the Bair Foundation and enjoy “An Evening of Praise” with Dennis Jernigan and Debra Ramirez. This will be held at Central Church of the Nazarene, located at 7291 E. 81st Street in Tulsa, between Memorial and Sheridan. The doors will open at 6:15 p.m. When Dennis Jernigan heard about The Bair Foundation benefit, the Lord laid it on his heart to do a night of worship to celebrate the children and all that God has done over the years through this foundation. A born and raised Oklahoman, Dennis has been writing worship music for many years and is a worship leader. He is known for such favorites as “All in All,” “Nobody Fills my Heart Like Jesus,” and “We Will Worship the Lamb of Glory.” Joining Dennis Jernigan for this celebration concert is another well-known Oklahoman, Debra Ramirez. She is a friend and advocate to The Bair Foundation. Debra is a graduate of ORU and Rhema, a minister of the Word and a talented vocalist. For many years she has followed the calling on her life through the pageant world singing for the glory of God. In her continued pursuit to follow God’s call, she is in full-time ministry, traveling throughout the nation speaking and singing at churches, women’s groups, singles groups, and national conferences. Both Debra and Dennis believe that “every child deserves a family.” They recently completed a TV Christmas special which aired during the holiday season on Channel 17—Lesea Broadcasting. Dennis included his wife, Melinda, and their nine children to share their love of the Lord and the season dur- ing this TV special. The Bair Foundation began in1967, when the Lord placed a challenge on Bill Bair’s heart to provide a home for abused children. His willingness to obey God’s call on his life has since led to hundreds of hurting children being placed in safe and loving foster Christian homes. Serving children from the ages of three to eighteen, the Bair Foundation now has over twenty-six offices in six states and serves over 1,600 children. Come join us at this “Evening of Worship.” Admission is free, and a love offering will be taken benefiting The Bair Foundation. For more information, call (918) 663-1654 toll free at 1-877-6631650 or www.bair.org Kenneth Hagin Ministries to Present Winter Bible Seminar 2004 Kenneth Hagin Ministries will hold its annual Winter Bible Seminar on February 15-20 on the Rhema campus in Broken Arrow. At what has become one of the ministry’s largest national events, the services will begin Sunday at 7:00 p.m. and continue Monday through Friday at 8:30, 9:30, and 10:00 a.m., and 7:00 p.m. Commemorating 20 years, Winter Oklahoma's Oldest Institution of Higher Learning • Associate of Science in Business Management • Associate of Science in Management Information Systems • Bachelor of Business Administration • Bachelor of Business/Management Information Systems Most of our degree programs can be completed in less than two years The College for Working Adults at St. Gregory’s University puts a quality business degree within your reach. We understand the needs of adult students and make it practical - and convenient - for you to earn the degree you need in the time you have. • Your classes will meet one night a week in a location that is convenient for you • You will also meet weekly with your small learning team • Your instructors will have a unique combination of relevant experience and academic credentials - as well as a genuine understanding of your needs as an adult student • Your degree will give you the skills and information you need to be an effective leader and decision maker Call Today! 1-866-230-8765 February 2004 COMMUNITY SPIRIT 27 Father Daughter Purity Celebration—Feb 28 Local fathers and daughters will once again enjoy a fun evening together as they celebrate the God given benefits of living a pure and honorable life. This year’s event will be held on Saturday, Feb. 28th at 6:00 p.m. For additional information or reservations, please contact Linda Dyson, 298-1002 or Jan Crouch, 299-5721. Left to Rt. Scott Scroggs, Amanda Scroggs (coBible Seminar 2004 is a special week of meetings led and hosted by Ken and Lynette Hagin. Meetings at the seminar will also feature various guest speakers, plus special music by the RHEMA Singers & Band. In addition, RHEMA Bible Training Center’s annual Homecoming – a time for alumni to “come home” to their alma mater and reunite with fellow graduates – will be held in conjunction with Winter Bible Seminar 2004. This, the first seminar since the passing of Brother Hagin, will be especially significant as Ken and Lynette Hagin present a special “State of the Ministry” address. In this special address, Ken and Lynette chairman), Rachel Scroggs, Tur Arsala (Manager of The Oaks Country Club), Laurel Dyson, Linda Dyson (co-chairman), and David Dyson. Hagin will reiterate the vision for Kenneth Hagin Ministries, RHEMA Bible Church, and RHEMA Bible Training Center. In addition to attending the morning and evening services, guests are invited to attend Prayer School and Healing School, outreaches of RHEMA’s Prayer and Healing Center. Held each weekday at 1:00 p.m., Prayer School opens with worship and teaching on prayer or a related topic, and concludes with a time of prayer. Beginning immediately thereafter at approximately 2:15 p.m. each day, Healing School is devoted to teaching on, and ministry in, the area to physical healing. For more information on either outreach, please call (918_ 258-1588 Ext. 2280. Why do smart kids fail? Weak Basic Skills If your child has struggled with schoolwork this year, take action now to make his or her grades better. Huntington Learning Center can help. Our certified teachers can pinpoint your child’s strengths and weaknesses and tailor a program of instruction to meet his or her needs. Just a few hours a week can improve your child’s skills, confidence and motivation. Call Huntington today. Your child can learn. Frustration with School Lack of Confidence Independently Owned and Operated No Motivation 7116 S. Mingo Rd. Suite 105 Tulsa, OK (918) 252-1200 28 COMMUNITY SPIRIT February 2004 Kim Felts of Felts Fine Jewelry Named President of the Oklahoma Jewelers Association (OJA) OJA is a statewide organization of retail jewelers with a current membership of 130 jewelers. Founded in 1907, the OJA strives to strengthen the independent jeweler and promote the welfare and interest of those engaged in the retail jewelry business. The majority of OJA jewelers are also members of the national association, Jewelers of America ( JA). In addition to being the President of the Oklahoma Jewelers Association, Kim Felts has received certification in Diamonds through the Gemological Institute of America as well as certification in diamonds and gemstones through the Diamond Council of America. Kim Felts says the best thing about owning Felts Diamonds & Designs is the opportunity it provides “to work directly with customers as their Personal Jeweler.” She believes that precious jewelry that is to be cherished and then passed to the next generation should be purchased from a local certified jeweler “who offers a personal approach and who appreciates the fact that jewelry must reflect the individual’s style and taste.” Kim Felts has a genuine love of fine quality jewelry and enjoys bringing the romance of fine jewelry and diamonds into someone’s life. Felts also offers Tulsa’s only Certified Master Jeweler, Tim Felts, whose talent is nationally recognized and who has obtained nineteen jewelry awards with exquisite designs in diamonds, platinum, gold and rich colored gemstones. Congratulations to Kim and to Felts Fine Jewelry, a loyal supporter of Community Spirit. First United Methodist Builders Class Announces Third Annual Wish Lemons Run This annual race has received national recognition as Paul Harvey carried the story on his noontime radio broadcast prior to the inaugural run. Last year’s run allowed the class to contribute over $30,000 to support mission activities in Tulsa and around the world. The 2004 Wish Lemons Run will again be a USATF Sanctioned Run on a Certified 5K Course through midtown Tulsa on March 27th. Registration forms are available at Runner’s World at 4329 S. Peoria. The race is named for Wish Lemons, now eighty-six years young and described as “a fixture on the Tulsa running circuit.” The run is a citywide, family-friendly sporting event that promotes healthy living for all ages. Dr. Jane Scott to Speak at Catholic Charities’ Adoption Study Group Come learn more about adoption at the Catholic Charities’ Adoption Study Group on February 5th. Dr. Jane Scott will speak on the subject of “Attachment and Bonding.” Bring a dessert and plan on the meeting lasting from 7:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. Call 5858167 Ext. 3016 for the location and to RSVP. Looking for a Great place to Volunteer?? Adopt a nursing home resident and make a difference! The Tulsa Metropolitan Ministry’s Caring Companions Task Force needs YOU! Did you know that nursing home administrators estimate that 65 percent of their residents don’t have anyone who visits them regularly? Residents are often lonely and thrive on interaction with visitors. Many who don’t receive visitors and roombound individuals who have no outside contact especially benefit from the time spent with a visiting volunteer. Companionship no only boosts the mood, but is actually therapeutic. Every minute given to a resident means so much to them, regardless of the activity. Caring Companions volunteers needs YOUR help in providing this valuable ministry. All you have to do is complete an application form and attend a training and orientation session. The class will help you feel comfortable in the nursing home setting and understand appropriate boundaries. Caring Companions typically visit their special new friends weekly. Don’t be afraid to give of yourself for you’ll soon find you are welcomed by many. You won’t regret volunteering in a nursing home environment, for there is more happiness born from such an experience than meets the eye. Touch the heart of someone who needs you. For more information, call Program Coordinator, Sandra Shea at 749-0074 or Volunteer Coordinator, Vickie Heyer at 355-4502. “Giving you an advantage over the competition with fresh baked chocolate chip cookies” The holidays are around the corner. Do you have your corporate gifts? Plan now to let Cookie Advantage send your holiday gifts. We do all the work. You get all the credit. Call for a free sample 369-4777 Build Repeat and Referral Business Our Customers Include: ~ Car Dealerships ~ Physicians ~ Stock Brokers ~ Mortgage Brokers ~ Realtors ~ RV Dealers Year round gifts shipped nationwide with a personalized thank you card from you to your customer or client. We do all the work— you get all the credit. www.cookieadvantage.com Franchises Available. Call Toll Free 888-6COOKIE. Pulling your hair out trying to keep your website up-to-date? We build websites that don’t require a computer nerd to maintain. Let us help you create a website that even your most “computer challenged” employee can update. Quantum Delta... Building Websites that Work and are Simple to Maintain! www.QuantumDelta.com 918.369.5834 | 918.606.1267 February 2004 COMMUNITY SPIRIT 29 OSSAA State High School Basketball Playoffs at the Mabee Center March 11-13 Thursday 2p, 3:30p 1st Session 7p, 8:30p 2nd Session Friday 11:30a, 1p, 2:30p 1st Session 6p, 7:30p, 9p 2nd Session Saturday 1p, 3:30p 1st Session 7p, 8:30p 2nd Session Tickets: Adults are $6 Students K-12 are $4 For more information, please call 918-495-6400. COMMUNIFebruary TY CALENDAR 7 Adoption Workshop for families interested in adopting a child from another country. 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Dillon International, 3227 E. 31st St. Suite 22. Cost for the workshop is $60 per couple or $50 per single adult. 749-4600 20 Father/Daughter Dance 6:30-9:30. Music by DJ Connection. Bixby Community Center, 211 N. Cabaniss. 366-4841 20-21 ORU Homecoming 2004 tion information, call 495-6610. 27-29 ORU Theatre Performance The Glass Menagerie, a 1994 play written by Tennessee Williams. Tickets are $5 and can be purchased the week of the show by calling the box office at 495-6145. 28 Adult Christian Singles Dance St. Marks Methodist Church, 10513 E. Admiral Place. Soft drinks, dance lessons, and a variety of music. $6.00 per person. 745-5883. “Passport to the Past, Journey to the Future.” Friday will feature the annual Homecoming Inform your community chapel, class reunions, about events happening and departmental open in your church, club, school, houses. Saturday will feature the announcement of business, civic club, etc. ORU’s Alumni of the Year Fax us at 298-9064 or write at the Presidents’ Alumni Banquet. On Saturday us at 10019 S. 69th E. Ave., evening, come cheer on Tulsa, OK 74133. the basketball teams as the women and men play Please submit information by the 10th for Oakland. For a complete publication on the following month. list of events and registra- MONTHLY MEETINGS I M P O R TA N T N O T I C E Dear Readers, The bankruptcy of Great Plains Airlines was as much of a shock to us as it was to the rest of the community. Not only did it result in a substantial financial loss for the magazine, it places us in a predicament as to what to do for our December and January contest winners of the already awarded, FREE round trip Great Plains airline tickets. During the coming weeks, we will be working with Great Plains and our other vendors to ensure that our winners are compensated with some other prize. Though through the world’s standards, it is not something that we are required to do, we believe that it is the right thing. You have a right to hold us to a higher level... and we will not disappoint you. Your brothers and sisters in Christ, The Community Spirit Magazine Staff 30 COMMUNITY SPIRIT February 2004 Single Hope Super Class Every Tuesday Night, 6:30 to 7:30Single Hope Super Class for unattached adults, divorced or widowed. Come find freedom from the past, victory in the present, hope for the future. Class led by Dub Johnson, Single Life Skills Specialist, St. Mark’s United Methodist Church, 10513 E. Admiral Pl. 437-4953, 745-5883 Toughlove® Parent Support Group A support group for parents. Mondays 7 to 9 p.m. Christ The Redeemer Lutheran Church, 2550 E. 71st st. This is a self-help program for parents who are troubled by the unacceptable behavior of their preteen, teen, or adult children. The first visit is free. We do not have facilities for children. Call 587-LOVE for more information. CHURCH SIGN OF THE MONTH Messiah’s Dancers Worship Dance for kids five and up. Saturdays 2:00 p.m. No charge. Limited Spaces. Calvary Messianic Congregation, 6610 S. Peoria. 293-0290 Brookside Lions Club Meets every Wednesday at 11:45. Trade Winds, 51st & Harvard. 6224172. Study About Hebrew Culture Learn Hebrew Worship Dance, every Saturday 2 p.m. and Hebrew Lan- guage and Cultural Studies, every Wednesday 7 p.m. at Calvary Messianic Congregation. 6610 S. Peoria 293-0290 Support Group for Single Parents Wednesday evenings at 7:30 p.m. at Christ United Methodist Church, 3515 S. Harvard. Free childcare. Contact Kim Hill at 747-8601. Women’s TEA “Time Encouraging Another” Meets every 2nd Saturday. 9:30-11:00 a.m. Heartwarmers & Girl Talk with a God base, floats locations. Call LeeAnn at Southpark Community Church 6632627. Concerned Women for America in Oklahoma God needs you to help America! Prayer alone is not enough. Concerned Women for America in Oklahoma meet in Tulsa to pray, learn and act to restore Biblical principles in America, and to protect and defend the family. Hardesty South Regional Library, 93rd & Memorial Drive. Time: 10:00 a.m. -12 p.m. every 3rd Saturday. Join us! Call: 918 252 1574. Golden Eagle Business Connection Second Tuesday each month at 11:30 am at Marie Callender’s - 51st Street, east of Harvard. Only $10 for a delicious lunch buffet, including salad, drink, and dessert. Free parking, special speakers, door prizes, and a chance to network with other people. Contact Tammy Denton, 918-495-6580 to RSVP. Leadership NOW! Christian Business Fellowship The focus of this Multi-Denominational Fellowship is to provide Biblically based programs on leadership, career development and personal growth. Currently meeting at Richmond Plaza, on the 3rd Floor(on 51st between Harvard & Yale). The 1st & 3rd Thursday at 12:00 noon. Lunch will be served at a cost of $6.00. To make reservations or for more information call 918-296-9104, or go to our website at www.leadershipnowtulsa.com. International Fellowship of Christian Businessmen’s Luncheon CLASSIFIED ADS $25 for 1 Month with discounts for pre-paid additional months. Deadline: 10th of each month, Maximum of 25 words, plus maximum of six words bold headline. Thursdays at 12:00 Noon, Holiday Inn Select at 46th and Yale. Good food and fellowship. Inspirational speakers. Interdenominational - Everyone is welcome. Lunch is $10.00 per person. CLASSIFIED ADS Sarah’s Children Digital Banners Personalized Party Banners, Indoor Banners, Outdoor Banners. Print Shoppe Etc., 58083 E. 51st (918) 663-2390 A support group helping women facing fertility challenges. Come for prayer, Bible-study and support. 2nd Tuesday of each month. 6:30-8:00, Asbury United Methodist Church. Call Robin for more information at 742-2521. Mayer Law Firm, Christian Legal Representation www.mayerlawfirm.com, [email protected] (918)293-0744 Broken Arrow Ministerial Alliance Luncheon Program Upcoming events at the Mabee Center Meets the second Wednesday of each month. (location varies) Contact: Thomas Harrison, President at the Broken Arrow Assembly of God at 251-8591 x30. FEBRUARY Transforming Grace A Christian program for drug, alcohol, and sexual addiction recovery, and to reach out to addicts in our community, by nurturing with the Word of God and through group support. Thursday evenings 7:00 pm. 1109 E. Memphis, Broken Arrow, OK. Call 250-6462 for more information. Oil Capital Chapter of the American Business Women’s Association Second Tuesday 6:30 p.m., Holiday Inn Select, 5000 East Skelly Drive. For more information, please contact Marcel Davis at (918) 745-0225. Talk at great length. Just don't pay that much for doing it. 2 5 7 19 21 Women’s BB vs. UMKC at 7pm Men’s BB vs. IUPUI at 7pm Women’s BB vs. IUPUI at 2pm Men’s BB vs. Chicago State at 7pm Homecoming 2004 Women’s BB vs. Oakland at 2pm Men’s BB vs. Oakland at 7pm 23 Women’s BB vs. Chicago State at 7pm 28 Women’s BB vs. Southern Utah at 2pm Men’s BB vs. Southern Utah at 7pm ($30.00 rebate and $20.00 instant store credit) 879-8000 4127 S. Sheridan Rd. (On Sheridan South of 41st) February 2004 COMMUNITY SPIRIT 31 Don’t sit on the bench during your most important years. Explore the free study materials in “Practicing Significance.” The lessons are designed to help people just like you prepare for retirement and move seamlessly into a life that is even more enjoyable, productive, and significant than your 1st Half. All Seminars and Materials are FREE and available for your use. Contact us for a seminar in your area or use the materials to start your own study group.