October 2012 | Community Spirit Magazine

Become a

CavemAn

Jeff Voth

PRO FE S S O R • A U T H O R • PASTOR

SPEA KING L I V E Day of War Weekend October 19-20 Dry Gulch USA

ANNUAL MEDICAL I S S U E | RETIREMENT VILLAGE RE VI E W | ADVICE FROM T HE BI GGE ST LOSER

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We care...for a lifetime Family Medicine & Geriatrics From toddlers to senior citizens, and everyone in between, the physicians at OSU Medical Group – Family Medicine & Geriatrics care…for a lifetime.

Erin Kratz, D.O.

John Laymon, APRN-CNP

Chandini Sharma, M.D.

David Chorley, D.O.

Complete care for the physical, psychological and social needs of the elderly including: • The syndromes from an Alzheimer’s or Dementia diagnosis • Management of medications, falls and delirium Preventive care for all ages | Well-woman exams | Same-day treatment for acute illnesses | Minor office procedures | Common vaccinations From pediatrics to geriatrics, we’re here for you… for your family’s lifetime.

OSU MEDICAL GROUP

FAMILY MEDICINE & GERIATRICS 3345 S. HARVARD AVE. / SUITE 201 / 918-710-4177

www.osumc.net

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October 2012

Contents Features: 6 CaveTime!

8 St. John Hospitalists 14 Joe Reese, M.D. Saint Francis 16 Sexual Addiction - CR 18 Cancer Support Ministry 20 Giving Hope to Heart 22 Oral Roberts University 28 How to Retire at 55 at Baptist Village 30 Methodist Manor Opens Crestwood!

32 The Chapel at Montereau 35 Clear-Tone Hearing Aids 38 Above Standard Electric 42 Politics - Olson vs. Bridenstine 44 Stop Smoking

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Steve Moeller, Tom McCloud, Randy Cowell, Danny Cahill, Deniece Adsit, Karen Hardin, Blythe Fowler

TULSA Sales Office 10019 S. 69th E. Ave. Tulsa, OK 74133 phone: (918) 307-2323 fax: (918) 528-6209 Distribution Community Spirit is distributed to churches, schools, restaurants, Christian bookstores, and other businesses. Call us today to deliver to your church.

Community Spirit is published monthly by McCloud Media.

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. Philippians 2:1-2 “If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from His love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose.”

Our Mission: 1. Build Community – Develop a sense of community among all local believers in Christ 2. Inspire Good Works 3. Support Families 4. Share the Good News of Jesus Christ Fan us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/communityspiritmagazine

TEACHING

FAITH

HOPE&Life EPHESIANS 4:12

Co mmu n i t y S p i rit

CREATIVE Director Ramond Walker

www.mccloudmedia.com • www.communityspiritmagazine.com

COLUMNS: 10 Pet Corner - West Nile Virus 11 Schluter Chiropractic 27 Deniece Adsit 41 Randy Cowell 46 Floral Haven

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PUBLISHER & editor Tom McCloud

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COVER STORY

CAV ETIME BOOKSI GNI NG A ND DAY O F WA R M EN’S CO NFERE NCE OCT. 19- 20 S E E PA G E 13 F O R D E TA I L S

CAVET I ME Tulsa Professor Believes Men Should Become Cavemen b y Karen Hardin

T

oday’s men are under assault. Blitzed by cultural and spiritual expectations to succeed, most men feel they must present themselves as the perfect man with everything under control.

They are defined by jobs, titles, bank accounts, houses, and cars.

As husbands, fathers, and spiritual leaders, men are expected to instantly have all the answers. Eventually they become isolated, fearing they won’t measure up. All of these expectations cause us to perform and strive, but for what?” states Jeff Voth, local author, pastor, and professor.

Author of the newly released book, CaveTime, God’s Plan for Man’s Escape from Life’s Assaults, Voth speaks to men from a standpoint of rare honesty and vulnerability. “I felt like I was running and trying and performing, but there was a hole in me. The harder I tried to fill it myself, the more fatigued and exasperated I became.

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“I tried so hard that I ended up in panic and depression and eventually an emergency room. I had a God-shaped hole I was trying to fill with works and people and material possessions. Nothing fit. I got to the point where I was so tired of trying and pushing and straining. I was done,” says Jeff speaking directly from his heart. The thing that impresses me about Jeff is that he is passionate about this message which has become a part of him.

“I really believed deep in my heart that for God to love me (or people), I had to earn it. I spoke of grace from the pulpit, but I didn’t accept it from God or extend it. I was the product of a culture that put pressure on a man to be a man, yet did nothing to help him find out what being one really meant.

I thought I had to be tough, suck it up, take the bull by the horns, —and for God’s sake and in the name of all that is holy—never, never, ever cry or show weakness.

That would mean I needed help. And real men, tough men, don’t ever need help,” quips Jeff emphatically. It wasn’t until Jeff was at the end of his rope, which he says is right where God wanted him, that he stumbled across the narrative in 1 Samuel 17–25:16, which

tells the story of King David of Israel and his fleeing, desperate group of friends.

This is not the part of David’s life that we hear about in most sermons.

No warrior or King. He was running for his life, steps ahead of death from the very thing (person) that he had spent his life serving. David escaped to a place that was familiar to him– –the cave. As a shepherd boy, this refuge was where he had received his

broken, worn-out, and fatigued heap of a man who didn’t know who he was. The things that defined me had failed me and left me more confused than I’d ever been in my life. Yet God was right there, whispering to me,” says Jeff. ‘Come and hide. Come and escape and hide and be with Me. Only I can fill the hole . . . because I put it there.’ That’s when I discovered the secret of the cave,” Voth reveals.

As a woman, I have to be honest

j eff a n d h is fa m ily

courage, strength, and boldness to kill the lion, the bear, and Goliath. But he wasn’t the only one drawn to the cave. Other men, overcome with debt and discontentment, soon joined him.

They too were searching for a place to regain their honor and bare their souls without judgment. Something significant happened in the cave, for they emerged as mighty men. Voth recounts a similar experience as he sought refuge in the “cave.”

“When I finally stopped, there God was—waiting for me,” states Jeff.

“That’s the day I became a caveman.

I’m not talking about some stupid Neanderthal who grunts and has no manners, or some condescending chauvinist who threatens to rule and reign. Instead, I became a tired,

and say I wasn’t planning on really relating to Jeff and the whole caveman thing. As a wife who dearly loves her husband, and the mother of two sons, I now understand a side of the masculine heart that I think had eluded me. Jeff’s message was as much to me as to the men in my life.

The real test of course was seeing how Jeff’s honest and sincere message resonated with my husband, for at the core of every man is the heart of a warrior.

“David’s exploits as a shepherd boy turned warrior is probably the most well-known story in all of God’s Word,” quotes Jeff. “As boys, we all envisioned ourselves with a sling shot, racing towards Goliath with our five smooth stones and delivering the death blow

to the enemy as our brothers watched and cheered. What most people don’t realize is David’s exploits, after he emerged from the cave of honesty and brokenness, were far greater. As a boy, he was fighting for His God. As an adult, he was fighting for his life, his family and his Lord.”

Three mornings a week before most are awake, Jeff’s man room turned cave is filled with men who, like him, draw strength from the brotherhood formed through the CaveTime experience. “Through my cave time, God has given me “stones” and habits to kill the giants in my life,” says Jeff. “God’s call to me is the same for all men. Come to the cave, bring all that you are and all you are not …I am waiting for you there.”

ABOUT Jeff Voth is the founder and president of CaveTime, an organization which helps men understand their purpose that comes to life as they learn to stand as walls of security, protection, and integrity for others.

Jeff earned a doctorate in leadership and spiritual formation, a master’s in philosophy and apologetics, and a master’s in divinity. He is a professor, pastor, and author/speaker. www.cavetime.org Karen Hardin is a freelance writer and president of PriorityPR Group & Literary Agency. www.prioritypr.org CaveTime is published by HonorNet, a local publisher based in Creek County whose unique relationship with Destiny Image Publishers provides a platform of national and international distribution, shipping over 1.5 million books worldwide annually. President Jake Jones has over twenty years’ experience in the publishing industry, filling a niche with new authors, branding, content development, and marketing. HonorNet is a unique publisher, also focusing its efforts for humanitarian relief and ministry. They recently assisted in the cleanup effort after this summer’s wildfire, helping families who lost their homes and providing hay to local ranchers whose cattle and horses survived.

For the last fifteen years, they have also helped atrisk kids, both stateside and abroad. For additional information, go to http://www.honornet.net/

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st. j o h n h ospital

Obstetricians, Hospitalists Provide for Safe Deliveries at St. John

I

n the womb, babies learn to do many things. Make a fist.

Breathe. Open and close their eyes.

One thing they will never learn to do: make an appointment for their arrival.

“Sometimes, things happen very quickly,” says Rupa De Silva, MD, an obstetrician/gynecologist who serves as team leader for St. John Medical Center’s Ob/Gyn Hospitalist program.

Begun last January, the program offers back-up – and often, principle – care for women expecting newborns.

Dr. De Silva and four other obstetrician/gynecologists, Jennifer Gibbens, MD; Jennifer Hayes, MD; Glen Henry, MD and Brian Swan, MD, rotate through 24-hour shifts seven days a week on St. John’s labor and delivery floor. Responsibilities are many, from evaluating the progress of patient labor and assessing fetal heart monitors, to serving as “an extra set of hands” during delivery and, should the need arise, responding to medical emergencies.

“We’re quite busy,” says Dr. De Silva. “And we like it that way.”

A good delivery, of course, starts well before a mother-to-be arrives at the hospital. Family Medical Care, a family practice group, which joined the St. John Health System in 2011, offers a maternal health clinic through its 17-physician practice.

Women on Medicaid (SoonerCare) receive high-quality care including pre- and post-natal care and deliveries at. St. John Medical Center.

When a patient’s regular doctor can’t be at the hospital, 8

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Ob/Gyn hospitalists step in. These hospitalists are an “emerging trend,” says Dr. De Silva, “as more and more hospitals and physicians realize the value of having someone in labor and delivery for their patients. It is one that is moving quite rapidly in the direction of all larger hospitals having this.”

“Patients love having face-to-face interaction with a physician,” Dr. De Silva says. “They know who we are, what we’re about and why we’re seeing them.” Floor nurses enjoy the extra coverage a hospitalist provides. “I like to have the backup, as a nurse, knowing that the laborist is here all the time. If a doctor is minutes away (from the hospital), they can intervene immediately,” says one.

At times, deliveries are turned over to hospitalists, says Dr. De Silva: “Once they’re turned over to us, we take care of the patient just like their private doctor would.” Members of the St. John Ob/Gyn Hospitalist program may also serve as backup to a woman’s obstetrician during a complicated birth, or as a primary physician during emergencies. They may also examine women who come through St. John’s emergency center with complications like ectopic pregnancies or a miscarriage.

Patient safety, Dr. De Silva says, is the program’s centerpiece.

Women with a family obstetrician or without, facing an easy or a high-risk delivery have the backing of highly qualified physicians every hour of the day. “I think,” says Dr. De Silva, “the program has shown that in every respect.”

TREATING THE BODY, CARING FOR THE SPIRIT.

MATT ACKER, M.D.

JOANNA CRAWFORD, D.O.

*

HEATHER HARSHMAN, M.D.

RUTH MOORE, D.O.

*

KRIS CRAWFORD, M.D.

CAROL J. HOWARD, M.D.

CLAY POWELL, M.D.

JOHN CROUCH, M.D.

CHRIS JENKINS, M.D

EDWARD RYLANDER, M.D.

MITCH DUININCK, M.D.

SCOTT KELLER, M.D.

ENIS SAKIRGIL, M.D.

FRANK HAMILTON, M.D.

CHAD MOORE, M.D.

VAL TRAMONTE, II, M.D.

LAUREL WILLISTON, M.D.

*Dr. Kris Crawford, Dr. Heather Harshman and our resident physicians (not pictured) are located at 19th & Utica, Suite 600.

All other physicians are located at 81st & Memorial, South Building.

AN IMPORTANT PART OF THE ST. JOHN TEAM, Family Medical Care is committed to giving our patients the best care, providing not only the latest medical treatments but healing for your mind and spirit. Please call 918-872-6880 or visit STJOHNHEALTHSYSTEM.COM/FAMILYMEDICALCARE to schedule an appointment.

P L E A S E V I S I T U S AT O U R N E W L O C AT I O N S : 81ST & MEMORIAL, SOUTH BUILDING, STE 100 | 19TH & UTICA, HOLLIMAN BUILDING, STE 600

P H OTO B Y A s ia J on e s

West Nile

Virus W

est Nile Virus was identified in west Africa in 1973 .

It was first diagnosed in the United States in 1999.

The primary vector is the Culex mosquito. The primary host is the bird, the black birds, Magpies and Jays being most susceptible to infection. The horse and man are two dead end hosts. This is a summation of the WNV history and disease pattern.

The clinical signs of the disease in people are fever, headache, swollen lymph nodes, confusion, muscle weakness, coma and paralysis. The onset is often gradual with the pronounced central nervous system signs becoming apparent in a very short period of time. There is no specific treatment for this disease, it being a virus. However, supportive treatment is much more affective if started early on. This virus can cause death but it usually occurs in the very young, elderly and immune compromised.

Our pets are safe except for our horses. Their clinical signs begin with a loss of appetite, drooling, stupor, occasional head pressing, rear limb weakness leading to collapse and even paralysis.

Wild birds especially Ravens, Crows, Magpies, Jays are the natural reservoir. Although it has never been proven to be directly from sick birds to people it is highly advised to use heavy rubber gloves when handling a bird that can not walk or fly. Take this bird to any approved site such as the 10 

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Oklahoma Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory. You can also call the Tulsa County health department.

Prevention consists of reducing the breeding environments of mosquitoes and or the judicious use of insecticides and repellants. Since most mosquitoes do not range farther than one mile from where they are hatched controlling standing water around your house will greatly reduce your chances starting a colony of mosquitoes that are harboring the West Nile Virus. Change your birdbaths weekly, pour out any water basins or buckets under the outdoor faucets and do not water your lawn and flower beds so as to leave water standing.

Remember, this water does not have to be warm for some breeds of mosquitoes to hatch.

Spread the news to your neighbors and hopefully we will not fall into the same situation as the greater Dallas, Texas area.

Largest outbreak: As of 9/13, TX, LA, MS, OK, SD, MI -1,405 cases with 118 deaths. In OK, 133 cases with 8 deaths.

R. Scott Nicholson, DVM, is a respected Broken Arrow veterinarian. Dr. Nicholson’s clinic is located at 816 S. Elm and he can be contacted at 918-906-6074

dr . sc h lu ter

Health “A state of complete mental, physical and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” (World Health Organization)

H

ow would you define health? Too often the idea of health is simply the notion that we “feel good” or that we’re “not sick.” But if you read the statement above, you’ll notice that health is actually far more than these vague ideas. Most of the time when we think we are healthy we are, in fact, tired, out of shape, continually stressed and feeding our bodies with all kinds of processed and unhealthy foods.

So how do you achieve complete mental, physical and social well-being? It may be simpler that you think. As a chiropractor, I believe there are 5 pillars to health that, if made a priority in your life, will allow you to maintain optimal health and wellness throughout your life. Each of these areas is important by themselves but together they help generate true health.

your spinal cord and through nerves coming out of every level of the spine. These go to every last organ, muscle, tissue and cell of the body. Chiropractic care prevents interference with this pathway to restore proper nerve signals and improve function.

Positive Attitude (Spiritual Health) – A major contributor (some statistics say over 60%) to poor health is stress and negative thoughts. Surround yourself with the right people, keep a positive attitude, manage stress, believe and have faith every day.

Make true health a priority and top responsibility for you and your family. Remember, it’s not about how you feel, if you’re sick or even if a drug is keeping your blood pressure down.

True health is about being complete and balanced.

Exercise – This does not necessarily mean hitting the gym or running a mile every day, but rather some form of physical activity that gets you moving on a daily basis. Something as simple as walking 20 to 30 minutes a day can be extremely effective. The benefits of exercising daily are endless including strengthening muscles, improving joint mobility, reducing stress, losing weight and especially improving cardiovascular health.

Nutrition – Your body craves nutritious high quality foods.

Unfortunately, we have become a nation of fast food, large portions, refined carbs, and processed foods. Eating a wellbalanced diet helps gives you more energy, can help you sleep better, helps your body heal damaged tissues and organs, and helps maintain proper weight. Think of this as the difference between putting low grade fuel compared to high grade fuel in your car. Your body needs high quality fuel and deserves it to be healthy.

Quality Sleep – And the right amount of sleep. Too much sleep can be just as unhealthy as too little. Getting the proper amount of quality sleep is important. This is when the body is able to relax, decrease stress and do much of it’s healing.

Healthy Spine and Nervous System (Chiropractic care) Your body relies on the nervous system for every function it performs. Right now your heart is beating, your lungs are breathing, your stomach is digesting, etc. without you even having to think about it. Your brain is sending messages down Oc tober 2012 Co mmunity Spir it

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Humana 2013 Medicare Advantage plans are here!

“Well, it’s a good plan. I think it’s a comfort zone for me, cause they’re there when I’m feeling ill and they’re there when I’m feeling well.”

Mary B. – Humana Gold Plus® (HMO) member

Humana has a full range of Medicare Advantage plans. Find out more about which one could be right for you.

To find ouT if a Humana plan is rigHT for you, call To scHedule an in-Home appoinTmenT or To find a neigHborHood meeTing.

1-800-372-2380 (TTY: 711) 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week

DON’T FORGET! The Medicare Advantage annual enrollment dates are Oct. 15 – Dec. 7.*

Humana is a Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract. A sales person will be present with information and applications. This is an advertisement. For accommodation of persons with special needs at sales meetings, call 1-800-372-2380 (TTY: 711), 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week. *Some exceptions apply.

Y0040_GHHH9V2HH CMS Accepted

OK 10/12

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S A I N T F R A N C I S H O S P I TA L

Faithful to Principle

Joe Reese, M.D., Chief of Staff at Saint Francis Hospital

COURTESY OF SHANE BEVEL PHOTOGRAPHY - SAINT FRANCIS HEALTH SYSTEM

H

ealthcare is big business. It employs one out of every eight American workers and it generates revenues of approximately $2.7 trillion each year. Statistics gathered in 2009 showed total spending on health care in the United States to make up 17.9 percent of the total economy.* And, there is little argument that the percentages have grown substantially since that report.

With these big business numbers, you would expect a big business “high margins at all cost” atmosphere around the typical hospital. If this were the case, the business world wouldn’t see Saint Francis Health System as “typical.” For although “that pink hospital in south Tulsa” strives for efficiency, it does so with the hope of generating the funds to help even more people. In fact, if its mission statement sounds more like a ministry than that of one of Tulsa’s largest employers, it was done on purpose. The organization demands of itself and its staff a continual high moral standard based upon Christian principles.

The Saint Francis Health System Mission Statement is as simple as it is challenging. “To extend the presence and healing ministry of Christ in all we do.” The values of the organization demand Excellence, Dignity, Justice, Integrity and Stewardship.

We interviewed Joe Reese M.D., Saint Francis Hospital’s Chief of Staff. Dr. Reese is a highly respected Internal Medicine Specialist and recipient of America’s Best Doctors Awards from 1996 to present. Dr. Reese has been involved in the Saint 14

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Francis Health System for 26 years.

A graduate of Hale High School, Oklahoma Christian University and the University of Oklahoma, he set up his practice here in his hometown of Tulsa. Joe and his wife, Carol have raised their 3 girls here and now enjoy baby sitting their 2 granddaughters. Joe serves as an elder and Bible Teacher at Park Plaza Church of Christ.

Dr. Reese says he feels blessed to be a part of the Saint Francis Health System. “It is an unique culture which understands what we do goes way beyond the bottom line. We don’t lose sight of our responsibility to provide quality services. If we did, we wouldn’t have a reason to exist. Still, we are prudent with those bottom line and expense numbers, allowing us to extend our services to people who can’t afford them.”

Dr. Reese explains that every entity of the Saint Francis Health System is expected to be self-sufficient. “Our commitment to excellence encourages, or rather, demands success at every level.”

The mission statement and values aren’t just on a plaque somewhere. Dr. Reese explained that the values are used during every planning session, ensuring that every decision meets and supports the 5 values of Excellence, Dignity, Justice, Integrity and Stewardship. And in this effort, he believes every staff member is held to a higher standard, something he says he especially sees evident in the organization’s employment policies and hiring practices.

As a Christian, Dr. Reese says that these faith-based organizational standards allow him to operate his practice in the same way without excuse. Although never pushy, it does provide an atmosphere where the staff can feel comfortable praying with patients who request it. However, he says that doing so “requires sensitivity, offering spiritual support in a non-threatening manner…something every Christian should practice.”

Dr. Reese finished our interview by sharing the following story. “When I was in my residency program, someone who knew I had graduated from a Christian university asked me if I was going to be my patient’s doctor or their preacher? My answer today would be the same. They are coming to me as a doctor, but if the situation is right and they open the door, I am happy to step through it.”

Leadership to build a better future.

In 1960 Natalie and William K. Warren, Sr., envisioned a hospital that would forever change healthcare in eastern Oklahoma. Today, Saint Francis Health System realizes that vision through medical excellence, innovation, leadership and a strong Catholic heritage. With construction underway on the new 150-bed Trauma Emergency Center and patient tower, Saint Francis continues to expand healthcare services to meet the needs of the community. Saint Francis remains committed to meeting not only the healthcare demands of today, but also those of future generations.

Saint Francis Health System | 918-494-2200 | www.saintfrancis.com

feat u re

cele b rate recovery

Sexual Addiction

a Pervasive and Progressive Problem

BY BLYTHE FOWLER

S

ome experts regard sexual addiction as a form of clinical addiction comparable to alcohol and drug addictions. Others believe it’s a form of obsessive compulsive disorder, referring to it as sexual compulsivity and still others dismiss sexual addiction itself as a myth.

A simple definition of sexual addiction is that it’s a serious problem in which one engages in persistent and escalating patterns of sexual behaviors despite increasing negative consequences.

Professionals may not agree upon the driving psychological, biological or physiological forces behind sexual addiction, but they do recognize it is 16

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pervasive and takes many forms.

Extra-marital affairs, multiple or anonymous sexual partners and/ or one-night stands, unsafe sex, obsessive dating through personal ads, prostitution or use of prostitutes, cybersex, compulsive solo sex, exhibitionism, voyeurism, and consistent use of pornography are all behaviors associated with sexual addiction.

Addicted to Love – Really?

Often the beginnings of sexual addictions are formed in childhood and early adolescence. Growing up in a chaotic, hostile or neglectful home, the child is emotionally starved for love because affection is rarely expressed.

Gradually sexual behaviors are developed to equalize mismanaged

emotions; these can serve as calming agents for anxiety, stress and anger or become an escape from boredom and loneliness.

People who struggle with sexual addictions don’t necessarily enjoy sex more than other people; they’re compelled to act out sexually and often think of the act as love – but love or true intimacy has nothing to do with it. Power and manipulation are operating and eroding the addict’s self-esteem, leaving guilt and shame in the wake.

Sexual addiction is progressive, over time it becomes more frequent and extreme. Usually it takes a crisis like getting caught one too many times to convince the addict that recovery is necessary to end the insanity. But as with all addictions, there are multiple

layers of denial to break through before truth can be accepted and there are varied approaches to treatment.

Celebrate Recovery (CR) is a Christ-centered program known for penetrating denial and shining the light of truth on unmet spiritual, emotional and relational needs that spawn many addictive behaviors. By working through CR’s step study program participants find freedom from hurts, hang-ups and habits that disrupt their lives and often pin them into the insanity of doing the same destructive things over and over while (insanely) expecting a different result.

Anna’s story of struggling with sexual addiction reads like a soap opera script with the thrills of romance, deceit of multiple affairs and inevitable pain of collapsed relationships - all fueled by unfulfilled hunger for love. As Anna tells the story however, it’s a fairy tale and although no one can tell it better than the princess herself, the following content relays some key elements of Anna’s relentless search for love and her eventual encounter with Prince Charming who is carrying her toward an ending of living happily ever after.

Born the second of four children within five years, Anna’s childhood was filled with fear. Her father’s abusive alcoholic outbursts created a mine field in the home. She grew up neglected and abused, not knowing love or affection from her father. Efforts to please him consistently fell short as did striving to show him she was worth loving.

At the tender age of 11 Anna was introduced to sex by a male relative; she remembers feeling as though something had awakened inside of her.

By age 15, she’d been sexually active with three boys, molested by two male relatives and a family friend. At 19, she was a single mom with a three year old daughter.

Anna could not stop the sexual activity despite feeling horrible and burdened with guilt and shame. Her

desire for attention, intimacy and love compelled her to continue. In her mind, sex was love and she believed that was what made her valuable. Discovering she was pregnant again, Anna chose to marry the father and gave birth to a second daughter six months later.

A third daughter followed and Anna settled into the busy role of mother and wife.

Throughout the marriage, Anna sought to please her husband and prove her worth in much the same way she had with her father. Over time emotional intimacy was lost, she began to seek the attention and affection of other men and the marriage ended in divorce after 11 years. Anna then met the man who would become her second husband and ‘rescue her from all her troubles.’ When her former husband sought custody of the two youngest daughters, she relinquished her children and moved to another state.

This second marriage didn’t satisfy Anna’s desire for intimacy, love and affection either. And neither did the infidelities committed as she lived a double life, seeking affection and attention from other men. An affair with a married man included the promise that he would take her away and allow her to continue to seek other relationships. When that lie (and sickness) was exposed Anna spiraled into self-loathing, depression and loneliness. After reconnecting with a godly friend from high school and another indiscretion, Anna left her marriage of 14 years, returned to Oklahoma and surrendered her life to Christ – her true Prince Charming.

LIGHT TO ANNA’S PATH The first stop on Anna’s road to recovery was a connect group at Victory Christian Center: Shelter from the Storm – Healing from Sexual Abuse. Next Anna attended Victory by Virtue and made a commitment to God to live in purity to Him. After her dad suffered

a debilitating stroke and she began care-giving, old feelings of bitterness, resentment and guilt began to surface.

A Christian counselor opened Anna’s eyes to un-forgiveness toward her dad and the sexual addiction she’d been battling most of her life.

The counselor recommended Celebrate Recovery and working CR’s step study allowed Anna to see her dad through God’s eyes and to accept that he did love her but was not capable of showing it because of his own lack of love from a father. Anna learned to forgive her dad and came to an understanding of the profound principle: hurting people hurt people.

This further opened her eyes to see how the pain she experienced caused her to act out and hurt the ones she loves.

Anna acknowledges, “It was my three daughters who suffered the most from my insanity. I know I cannot get the time we lost back, but God is restoring our relationships.” Standing on His promise in Joel 2:25, “I will restore to you the years that the swarming locust has eaten, the crawling locust, the consuming locust, and the chewing locust ... ” Anna continually prays for her daughters, just as her mother did for her.

While recovery is an ongoing process for all of us, when asked, Anna sums up her present position in these statements: “I’ve learned to give love from my heart not my body, my desire to please God is greater than my desire to please myself, and I have the strength through Jesus to stand up for what I believe.” Anna is giving back what she has learned and serves as Assimilation Coach on the Celebrate Recovery leadership team at Victory Christian Center, 7700 South Lewis in Tulsa. CR meets at Victory on Monday evenings - Large Group is 7PM to 8, Small Groups for men and women meet at 8PM to 9, and then dessert is served to 9:30PM. For information on CR at Victory, call 918.491-7700.

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C A N C E R T R E AT M E N T C E N T E R S O F A M E R I C A

A Preacher of Hope “You can start a cancer support ministry in your church,” says Lyn Thompson from Cancer Treatment Centers of America.

L

yn Thompson preaches “hope.” She doesn’t have a church, or a robe and they don’t call her Reverend, but she preaches just the same. Her audience comes to her because they all have a common enemy…cancer. Lyn is called to minister to them and to teach others to do the same. Souls are saved in the process.

She came to Cancer Treatment Center in 2004 to accept the position as Spiritual Outreach Coordinator. It turned out to be the perfect job, providing her with the perfect platform to teach about a subject she knows all too well.

Her personal cancer came like a final knockout punch after rounds of many other crashing blows. In 1984, Lyn, her husband Ken, and their four girls, ages 7, 9, 11, and 13, moved to a ranch outside of San Antonio, Texas. Lyn was finally going to get to pursue her passion of raising Arabian horses and German Shepherds. But only one month after purchasing the ranch, a freakish accident happened. Two horses bolted into her husband’s car as he was driving up the road, killing him instantly.

Devastated, she did her best to shoulder the responsibility of raising her girls on her own. She was already doing public relations at a hospital in San Antonio. The challenging job and the 50-mile commute each day gave little time to parent her girls and take care of the ranch. “I had a great deal on my plate,” Lyn explained. “But if life wasn’t challenging enough, two and a half years later, I had a massive tumor, ¾ the size of my breast.”

Lyn had always been healthy. In fact, she was a champion swimmer. In 1966, she was ranked a 11th in the world in the 1500-meter freestyle and 13th in the world in the 800-meter 18

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Freestyle. Not only was she healthy and strong, there was no cancer in her family. It seemed crazy that she had to face a double mastectomy and six months of chemotherapy.

The experience was difficult to say the least, but Lyn pressed on, having four little girls to raise. Her faith grew and God gave her many opportunities to serve and learn. She was often called upon to be an inspirational speaker, women’s retreat speaker, women’s ministry leader and she held lots of other ministry duties around church. She loved to share her testimony but she never really focused on her cancer. Little did she know that God would soon lead her to Tulsa to work at Cancer Treatment Centers of America, a place where her cancer experience suddenly was given a purpose.

Working in this environment has its challenges. Lyn says that one of the biggest challenges is learning to know God’s heart so she knows how to pray. “Often we pray for what we want instead of really seeking His will for our lives. And when people get to a place where they are at peace with God and their hope is in Him, regardless of circumstance, whether they are healed here or healed in heaven, God will heal them completely. There is hope in recognizing that He never leaves you or forsakes you…that He has a purpose in all things, that His plans for you are never thwarted. Throughout the challenges, I can’t tell you how many times God showed His hand over and over and over again. I have learned from experience that we serve a God big enough to carry us through each trial and to lovingly turn the worst situation into testimony.”

Such is her message of hope, one that Lyn Thompson is always happy to preach.

Want to start a Cancer Support Ministry in Your Church?

Our Journey of Hope®, the program Lyn coordinates at Cancer Treatment Centers of America, offers everything to help you get started…free training, a speaker’s bureau of great talent available for your church to use as outreach, videos, curriculum and plethera of other materials. Check out their website at both ourjourneyofhope.com and hopenavigators.com.

Lay ministry training is available free of charge to churches to help congregants become more effective in ministry to cancer patients and their families.

The goal at CTCA is to provide the best possible spiritual care for cancer patients and their families, and that includes serving spiritual leaders and congregations.

breast cancer

i had.

is what and, what

i survived. audrey allen Breast Cancer Survivor

“My multi-disciplinary care team developed a personalized treatment plan just for me.”

When Audrey was diagnosed with breast cancer, she was devastated. Like many newly diagnosed people, she went online, exploring every breast cancer treatment solution.

But she couldn’t find exactly what she wanted. She had heard about Cancer Treatment Centers of America® and our unique treatment model. With over three decades of experience in treating complex and advanced-stage cancer, we were the cancer hospital Audrey was looking for.

Within a few days Audrey and her care team developed a personalized treatment plan combining leading-edge conventional treatments with scientifically-based supportive therapies. Audrey opted for Brachytherapy, a more advanced form of radiation. And with the help of her dietician and naturopathic doctor, she was able to reduce side effects and stay strong during her treatment.

Eight years later, Audrey is confident she made the right decision in going to Cancer Treatment Centers of America.

Her husband, children and grandchildren are, too.

Read more about Audrey’s treatment and life after breast cancer at cancercenter.com/audrey.

if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with advanced-stage or complex cancer, call 1-800-515-9610 or visit us at cancercenter.com. appointments available now.

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H I L LC R E S T H O S P I TA L

TAVR: Giving Hope to Heart Patients Once Considered Inoperable

W

hen you think of a life-saving heart procedure, you may imagine open-heart surgery followed by weeks, or even months, of recovery.

A new procedure called Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR), available at Oklahoma Heart Institute (OHI), is saving lives through a single incision that allows patients to walk out of the hospital just a few days later, virtually pain-free, and with a new lease on life.

TAVR is a minimally-invasive procedure for patients with aortic stenosis who would be considered too high a risk for traditional open heart procedures.

Aortic stenosis affects the heart’s aortic valve. In late stages of the disease, the valve does not properly open and close, causing the heart to work harder to push blood through the calcified aortic valve. Eventually, the heart’s muscles weaken, increasing the patient’s risk of heart failure and death.

Traditionally, open-heart surgical valve replacement procedures have been available for patients with aortic stenosis. However, for a percentage of the population, surgery was not a viable option because of advanced age or other pre-existing health concerns.

In May, Oklahoma Heart Institute was the first hospital to bring TAVR to Tulsa. During this groundbreaking procedure, the Edwards SAPIEN Transcatheter Heart Valve, approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in November 20

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2011, is used to replace the patient’s failing heart valve through catheters placed in the femoral (groin) artery.

“At OHI, our mission is to provide cuttingedge, high-quality cardiovascular care to our patients and TAVR is another example of our commitment to this mission,” said Dr. Kamran Muhammad, an interventional cardiologist who leads Oklahoma Heart Institute’s TAVR Program.

“For patients who had previously been told there was nothing else that could be done for their condition, being able to offer TAVR is an incredibly rewarding experience.”

Before joining Oklahoma Heart Institute in 2011, Dr. Muhammad was with the Cleveland Clinic, where he was involved with TAVR studies and procedures to help prepare the valve for FDA approval.

Harold Hill, a 92-year-old Tulsa resident who had the surgery says he would recommend it to anyone who has aortic stenosis and has been told they cannot have surgery.

“I tell everyone about TAVR. I was out of the hospital just two days after my procedure. I was back to getting around on my own again and everyone who knows me can’t help but notice my energy. I think that is what I have noticed most – I have more energy. It has also given me the confidence to relax and enjoy life – I don’t always have to be stressed and worried wondering what is going on inside my heart.”

Hill’s wife had open heart surgery several years ago for a different cardiovascular condition.

“I took care of my wife after surgery and I vividly remember the recovery process seemed so long and so painful. I really didn’t have any pain after my procedure and my heart is healthy again. I am very thankful for TAVR for so many reasons – that is why I try to tell everyone about it. I hope the right person hears my story and that this procedure can help them too.”

To learn more about TAVR at Oklahoma Heart Institute, including animations of how it works, interviews with Dr. Muhammad and video footage from a procedure, please visit www.OklahomaHeart.com/TAVR. For more information on Oklahoma Heart Institute’s services, physicians and metro and regional locations, please visit OklahomaHeart.com or call 918-592-0999.

GEB America Launches October 1 with a Passion to Help Baby Boomers “Live Well” STORY COURTESY OF UNIVERSITY MEDIA RELATIONS

G

EB America, the television network from the campus of Oral Roberts University, launches onto the airwaves on October 1, 2012. Built on the network’s vision founded by Chancellor Oral Roberts, GEB America is reinvigorated with a passion to help the over 34 million Baby Boomers of faith to live well – spirit, mind and body.

“GEB America understands the significant influence that these Baby Boomers has on the future of Christianity in America,” said Oral Roberts University Executive Vice President for University Advancement Ossie Mills. “The programs showcased on our network are specifically designed to help promote spiritual growth and to sow positive, Christ-centered messages into the lives of our viewers throughout the United States.”

According to a Pew Research Center study, 43% of Baby Boomers say they are a “strong” member of their faith. And that number is growing everyday. These are the men and women, parents and grandparents, who represent the drive 22

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to preserve America’s Christian heritage. They have the best interest of our nation at heart and want to reach forward and help the next generation. They are the best hope the nation has for a safe, just, God-honoring culture. GEB America, formerly Golden Eagle Broadcasting, equips, empowers and educates this important group of citizens.

The changes to GEB America include a complete visual overhaul featuring a rich, Americana design and the integration of Spirit-Empowered Edu-Tainment. Oral Roberts University has developed a series of 30 second tips to help people live well featuring faculty from ORU that will air consistently. GEB America has added over 30 new programmers that showcase the best Christian inspirational voices in the world and that number continues to grow.

The call to help people live well – spirit, mind and body – is the driving force behind GEB America.

Emanating from the shadow of the Prayer Tower on the campus of ORU, GEB America celebrates traditional Christian

“The programs showcased on our network are specifically designed to help promote spiritual growth and to sow positive, Christ-centered messages into the lives of our viewers throughout the United States.”

-OSSIE MILLS , OrU Executive Vice President for University Advancement ENTER IN, ORU’S CHAPEL SERVICE, IS JUST ONE OF THE MANY PROGRAMS YOU CAN WATCH ON GEB AMERICA

worldview, Biblical ethics and family values. The network will spotlight people, organizations and issues of faith and focuses on communicating shared experiences built around the Christian journey.

With access to some of the most world-renowned Spiritempowered academic minds at ORU in combination with the leading Christian educators and pastors, GEB America is poised to present and provide intellectually stimulating content that stirs the mind.

GEB America will help viewers make healthy choices with information and encouragement that will enable them to choose the way of healthful living. The network will get viewers up and moving at their pace, in their way.

Some of the outstanding programmers that can be seen including Joel Osteen, “Breakthrough” with Rod Parsley,” “Enjoying Everyday Life” with Joyce Meyer, “The Blessed Life” with Robert Morris from Gateway Church, “It’s Supernatural” with Sid Roth, “Destined to Reign” with Joseph Prince, “Believer’s Voice of Victory” with Kenneth Copeland, “Turning

Point” with David Jeremiah, “Changing Your World” with Creflo Dollar and “Giving Hope, Sharing Life” with James Robison.

GEB America gives the nation a window into ORU through a live broadcast of the university’s chapel service called “ORU Alive.” “ORU Alive” can be seen every Wednesday and Friday at 11 a.m. CT. In addition, GEB America broadcasts many ORU Golden Eagle Men’s Basketball games in conjunction with FOX Sports.

“We wanted to modernize Golden Eagle Broadcasting, while still maintaining the original vision held by Chancellor Oral Roberts,” said Vice President of GEB America Amy Calvert.

“Our new programming is well-rounded, educational and culturally relevant. It acknowledges the struggles of everyday life, while celebrating the freedom that comes from living well.”

The new GEB America can be seen on DirecTV Channel 363, KGEB Tulsa TV 53, Sky Angel or www.Lifestream.tv. It can also be viewed live online at www.GEBAmerica.com.

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ORU prepares for the Whole Person Scholarship STORY COURTESY OF UNIVERSITY MEDIA RELATIONS

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etting a whole person education means discovering your true vocation, or calling, and then putting that vocation to work in the world. To be effective, students must be well prepared - spiritually, intellectually, physically and socially.

ORU’s commitment to whole-person education led to the establishment of the Whole Person Scholarship. It’s a generous scholarship for the ambitious, well-rounded students who aspire to the “whole-person” ideal of intellectual, physical, social and spiritual development.

This is one of our two premier scholarship programs,” said Nancy Brainard, vice president for Enrollment Management.

“The awards enhance and replace merit awards students 24

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earn with larger scholarships that are renewable for four years. And it’s beneficial to ORU because it allows us to find the students we are looking for - those who are intellectually alert, spiritually alive, physically disciplined and socially adept.”

The Whole Person Scholarship Program was established to recognize students who model the Whole Person concept.

Scholarship recipients demonstrate the following: Christian Worldview, Lifestyle of Service, Academic Achievement, Leadership Ability, Vision to Make a Life-Changing Impact on Others and Healthy Lifestyle. The program is funded through donations from alumni and other sources.

Any high school junior or senior or prospective transfer student may be nominated to the Whole Person Scholarship Program by a high school or college counselor or other

school official, youth pastor, community leader or member of the ORU faculty, staff or alumni.

“Students who’ve been nominated but who are not already admitted to ORU are asked to apply,” Brainard said “The Scholarship Committee then invites students to participate in an on-campus scholarship day event. There are three scheduled at present for this year: November 8, January 18 and March 7.”

Brainard said before the event, students are encouraged to complete an optional Participant Profile that will then provide their interviewer with information about their accomplishments and awards as well as some of their leadership and service experiences. At the event, students interview with an ORU faculty member and complete a series of short answer/essay questions.

All students nominated, invited and who subsequently participate earn scholarship dollars of varying amounts.

For more information on the Whole Person Scholarship or to nominate a student, go to oru.edu/whole_person/ scholarship/purpose.php.

FAQS How do I get nominated?

First, select a School, Church, Community Leader, or a member of the ORU Alumni, Faculty or Staff to complete the nomination form online. Make sure this person knows you very well and can speak highly about your achievements and accomplishments.

Your nomination will be reviewed along with your application for admission. If selected, you will be invited to participate in a Scholarship Day. You will receive a formal invitation with specifics for the Scholarship Day event.

Who is eligible for the Whole Person Scholarships?

New undergraduate freshmen and transfer students who will enroll full-time in an on-campus degree-seeking program.

When are the next scheduled Scholarship Day events?

Thursday, November 8, 2012 Friday, January 18, 2013 Thursday, March 7, 2013 In order to attend, you must have been nominated, invited to participate and confirmed your attendance with an RSVP. You will be sent an optional Participant Profile to complete prior to the event, and you are highly encouraged to do so.

This allows the individual who will be interviewing you to learn some more about you prior to your interview.

What will take place during Scholarship Day? You will participate in a scholarship interview and also answer a series of short answer essay questions. If the event takes place on a Friday, you will attend an ORU Chapel Service.

Each event concludes after a lunch for all participants.

What is the benefit of participating in a Scholarship Day? Those who have gone through the process and been invited to participate in a Scholarship Day will win a Whole Person Scholarship if they participate in a Scholarship Day event.

Your merit scholarship will be replaced and increased by a Whole Person Scholarship, renewable for four years. You may be selected as the winner of one of twenty top awards of $20,000/year for four years.

When do I need to arrive?

The event begins early in the morning. Generally, check in usually begins at 7:00 am. Plan to arrive the day prior or the morning of the event, which will conclude by 2:00 pm. You may bring one guest.

Does the schedule allow me to also attend College Weekend?

Yes, it does. The event will end at 2:00 pm. If a College Weekend is scheduled, check in will be available at that time.

We encourage you to attend College Weekend!

Can a family member nominate a student?

No, a family member cannot nominate a student. The nomination form must be made by a School, Church, Community Leader, or a member of the ORU Alumni, Faculty or Staff.

Oc tober 2012 Co mmunity S pir it

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Pumpkin Patch!

Come buy a pumpkin and support Key Elementary!

October 14 - 31!

About Deniece Community Spirit welcomes Deniece Adsit as a monthly columnist. Deniece has a passion to minister to women. You are going to grow to love her and the way she tells stories, always getting to the real heart of the matter.

Things I Can Do

M

ax Page, the seven-yearold actor who played the little Darth Vader in the Volkswagen Super Bowl commercial, recently had openheart surgery. I’m sure his doctors gave him a list of things he could NOT do while he is healing from the surgery.

In an interview with one of the news media, he showed his response to his limitations: He had produced a list of “Things I Can Do.” What an incredible response from someone so young to have such an understanding of how to make this life work!

I couldn’t help but think back to Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden.

Only the fruit of one tree was forbidden.

Everything else in the garden was God’s gift to them, set there as His provision for their life. Yet Adam and Eve felt compelled to eat of the forbidden fruit anyway. I like to think (in my most pious moments) that I would have made a different choice, but sadly, I would not.

We are all given that opportunity every single day, and almost daily, I choose from the list of things that are not beneficial.

Looking at the Ten Commandments God gave to Moses and considering all of the “Thou Shalt Not…” that is written there, my “Things I Can Do” list might look something like this:

1. I can worship God freely, and serve only Him. 2. I have a loving, caring, awesome God, so I will not need any idols to make my life complete.

3. I can call on God in reverence any time I need Him. 4. I can observe a Sabbath of rest, taking time to renew the body and honor God. 5. I can honor family relationships as God designed them.

6. I can value the life God has created, just as He does.

7. I can honor my marriage, my spouse, and my God, as He intended, by remaining loyal to my spouse in a Godly manner.

8. I can work to obtain the things I need, or be patient while He supplies them.

9. I can speak honestly in all situations.

10. I can be content with the things God allows me to have, knowing that His plan for my life is always best.

Life would be much simpler if I could always remember the positive side to living as God commanded, and have a plan in place to remain faithful to His instruction. Or I could just read Paul’s letter to the churches in Galatia to find a list of things to do:

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.

Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.” (Galations 5:22-25 NIV) Or I could find another list of things to do in Paul’s letter to the church at Philippi:

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy— think about such things.”

(Philippians 4:8 NIV) And by keeping my mind centered on the right things, there is a greater likelihood that I will actually do the things God requires of me.

Deniece is Author of “In Search of Righteousness” denieceadsit.blogspot.com Oc tober 2012 Co mmunity S pir it

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BAPTIST VILLAGE

Start Retirement Now, Even While You Are Working!

55 year-old couples are joining retirement villages. Crazy? Think Again.

Attention all of you empty nesters.

Okay, so your kids have moved out on their own and you and your spouse are rattling around in that big house.

Its time to breathe that sigh of relief and begin to focus on yourselves a bit.

Maybe you are planning for retirement and the numbers aren’t quite adding up. Or maybe you are wishing you could get rid of the maintenance and hassle of owning your own home.

Here is an option I bet you have never considered…moving to a senior community.

Think I’m crazy? Let me paint a picture for you.

Maybe at 55, you are just a few years away from having that big house paid for. However, the payments are high, there is lots of yard work and maintenance to be done and you worry about it during those few weeks a year when you are able to get away.

Sit down and add up the cost of it all.

Now imagine if you could wipe away all of that hassle and stress. Even if you are a long way from retirement, maybe selling your house would allow you to 28

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cut back on your workload or maybe it would allow you to change jobs, finally doing that dream job you just never could afford to do.

It may surprise you that more and more couples are considering the move to a retirement village in their sixties or even late 50s. Yes, I realize that it totally irritated you when you received that unsolicited AARP card in the mail. But when you consider the finances, making the move now towards a retirement lifestyle right now might be a decision that will pay dividends for the next 30 years or more.

Baptist Village of Broken Arrow and Owasso both have beautiful, new patio home communities that are guaranteed to impress you. They have one and two bedroom homes with one or two-car garages, a front terrace and a back patio. The homes range from approximately 1600 square feet down to a one bedroom, 1000 square feet.

Each are built new to your choice of numerous layouts and each are richly appointed.

Many comment that down-sizing to one of these patio homes makes everything easier… easier to clean, easier to furnish and just all around more comfortable. And, you can forget all the yard work and the maintenance forever.

Except for a monthly service fee of around $200, your electric bill (extremely affordable by the way), and your water bill, you live carefree. Just think of how much you could put away for retirement or the vacations you could take with the savings! Now think about the stress you could eliminate forever. You won’t have to worry about those rising property taxes and insurance. You won’t have to update your kitchen every twenty years. And you won’t have to be concerned about the economy or that neighbor whose deteriorating house is lowing the value of your home. Instead, you will be able relax, knowing everything is being taken care of for you.

How does it work? You invest in paying a cost for the patio home

of your choice, and then you pay a reasonable monthly service fee. Should you decide to move, a graduating percentage of the home’s value will be retained by Baptist Village. This can be fairly expensive if you are there for only a short time, but for that 60 yearold couple or individual who moves in and stays for the next 30 years, the cost becomes negligible.

And living at Eagle Ridge (Broken Arrow) or Bradford Park (Owasso) has other benefits. For one, they are neat little communities full of like-minded people who care about each other and enjoy doing things together. The views are outstanding…Eagle Ridge sits on a hillside which overlooks the cities of Broken Arrow and Tulsa. Bradford Park overlooks a beautiful 3-acre lake complete with walking traits, benches and gazebos. You will also have access to the other amenities on campus, such as delicious meals, a beauty or barbershop and large meeting rooms. Want some help around the house? Entrusted

Hearts, Baptist Village’s home health ministry, offers personalized services at any time for an additional cost.

And should you need additional services in your later years such as assistance in living, skilled nursing or memory support, services are available at both Neighborhoods. Residents receive priority status for these services.

You won’t have to pay a buy-in fee. You will only pay for the services you want, when you want them.

55 or sixty is not too early to take advantage of the savings, the protection

and the comfort of this patio home community. Maybe you should take a look? It might be just the ticket towards a carefree life that will give you the freedom to begin enjoying a retirement lifestyle even while you continue to work.

Want to know more? Visit baptistvillage.org or call to arrange a tour at 918-355-0099 at Broken Arrow or in Owasso at 918-272-2281.

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OKLAHOMA METHODIST MANOR

Introducing Crestwood

OMM’s Gorgeous New Residential Neighborhood

It’s open!

Crestwood at Oklahoma Methodist Manor is “wowing” its Members as well as their families and friends. Elegant, yet comfortable, the beautiful 4-floor expansion at Methodist Manor, offers a safe, affordable lifestyle for seniors who desire to live in a Christian community, luxuriously appointed with most everything you could ask for or desire.

Set on the newly re-landscaped 40-acre Oklahoma Methodist Manor campus, the Crestwood Neighborhood is beautiful both inside and out. New Members have their choice of 20 different floor plans, ranging from 670 square feet to 1500 square feet, with one or two-bedroom options.

Each is finely designed with such amenities as walk-in closets, some with balconies or patios,, and all sound-engineered walls, floors and ceilings.

Most residences have eat-in kitchens and all are equipped with the latest in modern appliances as well as finely crafted granite counter tops. Each residence also has a washer and a dryer, wide doorways and lever door handles. Wallto-wall carpeting, window blinds and individual climate controls provide both beauty and comfort. Every detail was considered in the design right down to the pre-wired TV, computer and telephone outlets as well as the slip-resistant showers and urgent responses systems.

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The Crestwood Neighborhood extends far past the door of each residence. A long list of amenities includes casual and private dining, a wonderfully stocked library, a Member’s Club, concierge service, OMM Academy classroom, plus an overnight guest suite. Members also enjoy a theatre, a business and computer center, a hobby zone, and even a postal service center with personal mailboxes and message boxes. Conference, private meeting and game rooms are also available.

Possibly the highlight of any visit to Crestwood is The Span Wellness Center. This state-of-the art center provides the Members with the equipment and the instruction to help keep them limber and healthy. From the heated saltwater pool with swim jets, to the relaxing whirlpool and

indoor walking track, Members enjoy keeping fit together in this soothing, encouraging atmosphere. A fulltime Wellness Director designs and manages all scheduled fitness and wellness classes ranging from TaiChi and Water Aerobics, to Pickleball and Shuffleboard. Lectures are also provided in all areas of the 7 Dimensions of Wellness.

Staying well involves even more that physical exercise. At Crestwood, Members also enjoy the opportunity to learn, grow and minister to each other.

Social groups are available for every interest from bridge clubs to dance lessons. Oklahoma Methodist Manor’s Academy Classes provide education in a wide range of fields and interests.

Vocational and occupational activities encourage volunteering while also developing new appreciations for things like woodworking, needlecraft, and even traveling. And finally, Bibles studies and lots of opportunities to share and minister together further enhance this thriving community.

As you can see, becoming a Crestwood Member is more than simply moving to a nice place to live. Members here become a part of a loving, thriving community that encourages growth and friendships.

And, by joining the Methodist Manor family, your lifetime agreement provides priority access to private accommodations in the OMM’s respected Assisted Living, Memory Support or Skilled Nursing Households, should you ever need them.

OMM is a unique community, staffed with caring people, and full of like-minded Members. It may be just the right atmosphere for you or your loved one. Call for a visit. We know you will be impressed.

For more information, contact the Information office at 918-574-2590 or visit www.ommtulsa.org.

A Grand Design

The Wait is Over Welcome to Crestwood The beautiful new residence, Crestwood at Oklahoma Methodist Manor, is now open. Enjoy the security and Christian fellowship of Tulsa’s only Mid-Town fullservice community. Crestwood was designed to be the ultimate in comfort—at a down-home, comfortable price.

With a variety of amenities and superb service, Crestwood will exceed your expectations. From beautiful views to an ideal location, the new residences at Crestwood will represent community living at its finest.

Call 918-574-2590 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

The first Members have moved! To learn about available floor plans, call 918-574-2590 and schedule a visit. We are located on 31st Street between Harvard and Yale. www.ommtulsa.org

www.facebook.com/ommtulsa

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m o n tera u

Warren Chapel at Montereau

A Quiet Place Where Communities Worship Montereau is full of special places. There are places to dine, to study, to relax, to socialize, to exercise and even places to just sit around and do nothing at all. But just as you enter the beautiful main entrance, the architects reserved a location for what some residents believe to be the most special place of all…Warren Chapel.

It’s a place where the entire Montereau community often comes together to celebrate a wedding or to honor a friend that has passed. But it is also a place where parts of that community can join with like-minded people of the same faith to worship together.

The old western movies often depicted the people pooling their resources to construct a church building. In the process, they became more than just a town. They became a community. The same is true for Montereau. Somehow this stained glass chapel has helped pull this wonderful campus full of elegant apartments and garden homes into a community that cares, encourages and loves.

It is a place for corporate worship. In fact, it is the place for Catholic Mass ever Sunday and Wednesday at 10 a.m., for a Protestant service every Sunday at 11 a.m., an Episcopal service once a month on a Wednesday afternoon and a Catholic Rosary every Tuesday at 1 p.m. And, with a couple 32

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of quick changes, it is often the place for Jewish services as well. Reverend Ken Pate serves as the Protestant Chaplain and Father Denis Casey serves as the Catholic Chaplain.

The chapel is named in honor of William K. Warren Jr., John-Kelly Warren and the entire Warren family. Montereau’s President and Chief Executive Officer, David Murlette, explained that Montereau’s continuing care retirement community was founded by The William K. Warren Foundation. “Over the years, Bill Warren Jr. and his son JohnKelly have guided and shepherded the development of Montereau and it was their high standards that are reflected in the facility’s mission and operations today,” Murlette said.

The residents here at Montereau are proud of the beautiful chapel and most of the special elements in the room such as the granite altar, the classic Roland organ, the lectern and the framed wood representation of the hymn “How Great Thou Art” have been generously donated by the residents and their families through the Montereau Legacy Program.

When you walk into the 75-seat chapel, you immediately notice the 18 ornate stained glass windows locally designed and crafted by Tulsa’s Loman Studios. There is also a “Come to Me” bronze sculpture of Jesus interacting with children

that was done by local artist, Rosalind Cook. Above the altar hangs an exquisite 8-foot tall mosaic cross, handcrafted by Tulsa artist, Jacqueline Iskander.

Murlette described the church services in the chapel as being very special. “Everyone knows each other and cares for each other.”

He explained that it is a real blessing especially to those who no longer drive, to be able to worship right here on campus. And whether the residents come for a worship service, for a Bible Study or simply to pray, one thing is

obvious…of all the special places on campus, this is typically, the favorite.

Montereau, Inc. is an independent, not-for-profit organization. Along with its 294 apartments and 34 garden homes, it offers the services of assisted living, long-term care, memory support and skilled nursing all under one roof.

Although its beautiful brick and mortar give impression of it being unaffordable, it actually isn’t at all. In fact, you might be surprised. Depending on the size of the apartment you chose, entrance fees start very low. And, no matter which apartment fits you best, the same amazing services are the available to all. Call today. Schedule a tour and see for yourself. For more information, visit www.montereau.net or call 918-4951500.

great life

The good life is a at Montereau.

With daily chores a thing of the past, at Montereau retirement community, you have more free time to pursue the good things... like spending more time with those you love.

More fun, more freedom, more reasons why Montereau is everything you hoped senior living would be. It’s a great life!

T    

6800 S. Granite Avenue • Tulsa, OK 74136 • www.montereau.net

great life  M.

Call Today!

(918) 495-1500 or (888) 795-1122 Oc tober 2012 Co mmunity Spir it

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Want to hear better... but not ready to wear a hearing aid?

OSU MEDICAL GROUP WELCOMES ERIN KRATZ, D.O., FAMILY MEDICINE ERIN KRATZ, D.O.

THERE’S A NEW SOLUTION FOR MILD HEARING LOSS!

Medical Education Oklahoma State University, College of Osteopathic Medicine, 2008 Residency Oklahoma State University Medical Center, Family Medicine, 2011 Recognition Achieved the highest score in the Nation on the Osteopathic Family Medicine In-Service exam

• Perfect for Part time use • Nearly iNvisible fit • affordable aNd easy to use

Dr. Kratz is a Tulsa native and is proud to be practicing in Tulsa with Drs. Chandini Sharma and David Chorley. She enjoys caring for patients of all ages and women's health issues. To schedule an appointment, please call 918-710-4177. 3345 S. Harvard / Suite 201 / Tulsa, OK 74135

www.osumc.net

Appointments are limited. CAll TodAy to reserve your space! ®

838-1000 or 800-722-8050

HEARING AID LABORATORIES, INC.

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2323 S. Sheridan Rd • Tulsa, OK www.MyCleartone.com

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Same Day Appointments Available | 918-710-4177

CLEAR-TONE

Hearing Aids…Stop and hear what you are missing!

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hen you think of hearing aids, you probably picture the type your grandfather use to wear… big, squealing, uncomfortable plastic pieces that covered the entire inside portion of the ear. You may remember grandpa always trying to adjust them, turning them up or down to meet every situation. You also may remember him absolutely avoiding restaurants and other crowded places because he couldn’t stand the noise his hearing aids magnified.

Well, wake up to our new high tech world. We don’t listen to record players anymore and we don’t have to put up with the crummy hearing aid technology of the 70s. ClearTone (SeboTek), a leader in the industry and conveniently located right here in Tulsa, has introduced incredible devices that are not only nearly unnoticeable, they produce the high-def sound you might demand from a good pair of headphones.

Wearing a bulky hearing aid may have once been a negative to your career. Now, wearing the new Sebo HD just may give you an edge over your competitors. Imagine, finally hearing in meetings without having to focus so hard on co-workers. All with the help from a discrete device that no one will know you are wearing unless you tell them.

SeboTek, the sister company of Clear-Tone, introduced “receiver in canal technology” in 2003 and since then, the industry has struggled to try to keep up. Jim and Mike Feeley, owners of SeboTek, have been working on refining the technology for the last ten years. Now, the Sebo HD is setting a whole new standard for the industry. The result is a product that attracts both older and younger professionals to their door. Wanting to hear much better and enjoy music again, they aren’t putting off getting hearing instruments any more.

“Why shouldn’t I get one?” said one high level executive. “To compete in my fast-paced career, I can’t be guessing what my client just said. I decided to let the other guys my age do the guessing. And, my hearing instrument is so hard to notice, I have decided to keep it as my little secret.”

Mike Feeley explained some of the technology and features used in designing the Sebo HD. “Probably the most important improvement is the overall sound quality. The wide bandwidth (14kHz – highest in the industry) provides a fuller spectrum of sound, allowing them to perform more like high fidelity headphones than hearing aids. By boosting high frequency gain while simultaneously stabilizing the signal, it smoothes unwanted peaks and reduces distortion. It is a whole new level of high definition sound.”

Mike also said that the Sebo HD has the ability to automatically adjust to multiple settings. After all, our daily lives are filled with multiple listening situations, from a quiet conversation to a more complex environment such as a restaurant or worship service. The Sebo HD automatically determines the environment and adjusts for just the right setting. If you are

listening to music for instance, it adjusts to high fidelity sound.

If you are in a noisy place, it automatically adjusts to reduce the background noise and maximize listening comfort. And when you pick up the telephone, it changes to telephone mode as soon as you put the phone up to your ear to hear the kids or grandkids.

The Sebo HD is also moisture resistant, allowing you to be active and not worry with your hearing aid malfunctioning due to perspiration. It comes in multiple colors and no molds are needed. After your hearing tests, a unit can be made for you to try that same day.

And, maybe the neatest thing about the new technology is that it links with mobile phones, MP3 players and personal computers. Sebo-LINK provides wireless and hands free communication between your hearing instruments and other auto devices, allowing them to work like wireless headphones.

Imagine being able to hear your cell phone from both ears.

“People are enjoying life more now with this technology.

Hearing aids really aren’t just for elderly anymore. Welcome to the 21st Century,” Jim said.

ACT NOW…Before you notice a strong hearing loss!

You know that sound when the refrigerator comes on or when the air condition begins to blow? You hardly notice it…right? Unfortunately, as we lose our hearing, we forget about such sounds. Then when we wait too long before breaking down and getting hearing aids, those simply little sounds drive us crazy and make it doubly hard to adjust to good hearing again. This makes it even more important for us to get our hearing checked on a regular basis. Don’t wait until your family members demand for you to get checked. Do it now and get help before you forget the simple sounds of life.

You will thank us later.

FROM CINDY MORRISON

“After meeting with brothers Mike and Jim Feeley, I was totally sold on the company! I had no idea they manufacture hearing aids here in Tulsa, sell them around the world, and are constantly developing cutting edge technology that’s changing the way people hear. While providing excellent service here at home, they’re also setting the standard globally.”

“I don’t think I’ve ever worked for nicer people. The Feeleys are great Christians who truly care about their customers, employees and community. That kind of genuine passion and compassion is contagious.

You just feel good when you’re around them or their employees.”

“If you have noticed people seem to mumble, your spouse complains the TV is too loud, you hear what is said, but do not always understand what you just heard; I strongly recommend you call Clear-Tone today (918-838-1000) and ask them about how to get your hearing evaluation and free trial fitting of this technology. You have nothing to lose and you will be glad you did it.

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H E A LT H & F I T N E S S

LOSE YOUR

QUIT

B Y D A NN Y C A H I L L

Community Spirit waveproj.org is excited to announce that Danny Cahill will now be one our featured, monthly writers. Whether you wrestle with your weight or not, you will enjoy Danny’s motivating column. We all cheered Danny on when he was on The Biggest Loser. Now, he continues to gain our applause while he shares his testimony with others. Danny loves the Lord and is not shy about telling people about Him. It is a blessing to the magazine to have his monthly article. Be sure to watch for Danny’s article each month. It will be in a new section we are adding on health and wellness.

READY,SET,GO We’ve spent the last three articles preparing to do what we are about to do now. It is time to stand up in your life and BEGIN this journey that you need to be on! I am going to approach this with a weight-loss perspective, but if it’s finances, marriage, selfworth issues, anything – you can get information for those areas too from professionals!

you to take the unknown and make it known. Until you know how much food is going into your body, you won’t be able to adjust it for your success. As with your finances, unless you know exactly what’s coming in, you can’t weigh it with what’s going out and balance the budget! And for weight-loss, you need to have a little more going out than coming in!

We’ve talked about acknowledging where you are, Planning your attack, and believing in yourself. Now it’s time to BEGIN! Health and WeightLoss begins with water. It’s time to get rid of the pop and juices and begin getting at least 64 ounces of water a day in your body! This is a MUST in my opinion, as you need to rid your body of junk and water helps filter out the toxins!

Now, begin to move. For some of you, this might mean a 15 minute walk.

For others, a 30 minute jog. But it has to be SOMETHING EVERY DAY! Then, improve each week. My motto is, “Do a little more today than you did yesterday. Repeat tomorrow.” Then, each day you improve a little on what you’ve done the day before! Don’t compare yourself to Jillian Michaels or the local crossfit champ! Compare yourself to who you were yesterday.

If you haven’t improved, something’s wrong!

Next: Journal! Keep a food journal!

On The Biggest Loser, if we didn’t keep a food journal it was grounds for dismissal from the show! That is how important to your success journaling your food is. In fact, in any area, journaling is a must! It allows 36

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Here is your nutritional education.

1 Calorie is the amount of energy it takes to raise 1 gram of water 1 degree. In other words, SWEAT!

One pound of fat = 3,500 calories.

If you want to lose 5 pounds per week (5x3500=17,500 calories) then you need to have a deficit of 17,500 calories in a week! Divide that by 7 and you get 2,500 a day! If you burn 2,500 calories more a day than you eat, you will lose 5 pounds in a week!

It’s that simple! To lose 1 pound, burn 500 calories per day more than you eat! That’s about 2 pops. See what I mean about the water!

Next time, I’m going to walk you through finding your numbers. We’ll figure your Resting Metabolic Rate so you can figure out the math and keep yourself on track to be the fit and healthy person you want to be! Until then, drink water, keep that food journal, and MOVE! Oh! And watch this video: http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=Oj_0yIcOPXI.

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A B O V E S TA N D A R D

Above Standard Electric

Impressive Young Family Sets Godly Standard for Doing Things Right

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hey don’t have huge crosses on their trucks or scriptures on their sleeves, but the testimony of this young couple comes out loud and clear by the way they operate their business. Sincere, open, honest and thorough are just a few of the words which set them apart and make them “above standard.” Actually, that description is an understatement, as we have seen that their faith and attitude reaches a “standard” that is difficult to find in today’s world.

You may have never called an electrician before. If you are like me, you 38

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flip on the light switch and never give electricity a second thought…at least until sparks fly or things don’t work.

But sometimes, things change. You need a new outlet here or additional lighting there. Or maybe you even want to rewire a room to create that home theatre you have always wanted.

When you have those needs, who will you call for help? You might call that buddy of yours who thinks he can do it because he watched an episode of that “Do It Yourself” show. Or…you can make the more prudent decision and call an expert…an electrical contractor.

Sure, you might save a few bucks by trying to do it yourself, but before you make that first of four trips to Home Depot, you should realize that the lives

of your entire family might rest on just one “minor” connection done wrong.

We suggest that you call Isaiah Davis IV (nicknamed Quarter) at Above Standard Electric. You won’t have to worry and you can spend your time on other projects. Over six years of master’s level apprenticeship training qualifies him as an electrical contractor.

His attitude and integrity qualify him to be your friend. The result is a job done right at a reasonable price.

Quarter’s father was a General Contractor allowing Quarter to grow up around jobsites. The experience taught him about all kinds of construction, but electricity was what he liked best.

But it was a friend of his, his next-door neighbor, who encouraged Quarter to

“Quarter and Brandy say that they advertise in Community Spirit because they share the same values. “We run our company with a Christian-based company culture. It therefore makes scents to spend our advertising dollars with someone with the same goals.” become an electrician. A 3rd generation electrician himself, he began to spoon-feed Quarter the fundamentals.

Quarter then went to work at Tri Plex Electrical and spent four years as an apprentice and another two as a journeyman electrician before earning his electrical contracting license.

During those times, he worked on both new construction and service jobs, but he liked doing the service best. He loved getting to know the customer, listening to their needs and coming up with the right solution for every problem.

When he started Above Standard, he knew he would focus on the service end of the electrical business. He also knew that he would treat the customer right and offer fair and honest pricing. He saw other companies that would give a “worst case scenario” price to the customer, often charging them 2 or 3 times what they would have charged on an hourly basis. He dedicated himself to providing a good service at a fair price.

“When we enter someone’s house to do a job, we understand that it is a home, someone lives there. We take care of things…lay down plastic to protect the carpet and vacuum when we are done. We try not to create a job for the homeowner to do after we are finished,” Quarter explained.

“Doing an above standard job requires that we have x-ray vision sometimes, to have the experience to know how a home might be wired. Depending upon what side of town and what year the house was built, there are different ways the framing was done. Experience allows us to know what we might run into and how to plan for each job.”

“We do our best to build a relationship with each homeowner. Eighty to ninety percent of our job is never seen. It is up in the attic and behind walls. So, there must be a certain level of trust between homeowner and us. We build and earn that trust over time. We don’t take shortcuts. What we do potentially affects people’s lives. We take every job seriously. And gradually, the word is getting around and our customer’s are telling their friends and family about us.”

“Albert Einstein once said if you can’t explain something so that people understand it, then you don’t really understand it yourself. We try to educate our customers. We don’t just tell them what needs to be done, we tell them why it needs to be done. We help them understand the codes and why it in their best interest to adhere to them. Other contractors may cut corners and offer a lower price. We do it the right way, while looking for every responsible way to save the customer money.”

Brandy does all of the office management for their familyowned business and hears first hand what customers say about each job. “Our guys work really hard to do a good job, not just enough to get by. Every job is important. We make sure the homeowner is happy and listen to their concerns.

We want to always leave a good impression that they will want to pass on to their friends and family. We hope they will think of us the next time they need something.”

Quarter and Brandy were both raised in Tulsa and went to Booker T. Washington High School. Little Hannah is two years old and they are expecting a little boy soon. Since Quarter is the 4th, the little boy will be the 5th. They plan to call him Quarter Junior or “QJ” for short. We bet he will be one incredible little electrician.

You may learn more about Above Standard Electric on their website at www.asetulsa.com. Or call them at 918-6095106.

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Saturday, October 20, 2012 First Baptist Church, (downtown Tulsa) 5K & 10K - $20 (day of race, $25) FUN RUN - $5 REGISTER AT: earlysignup.com -or- www.john316mission.org or, $30 total for both races *Proceeds benefit John 3:16 Mission

RANDY COWELL

Are You Living Beyond Your Means?

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re you one of the many Americans that find that there is more month at the end of their money? If you are, here are some helpful suggestions on how to gain control of your finances, and “stretch” your dollars so you will not be living paycheck to paycheck. Before we discuss the how of living within our means, let’s first discover why our finances are in such a condition.

Recent statistics concerning the financial condition of the average American household are sobering the say the least.

There are several statistics that speak to the overall financial health of American households. One that may be at the root of the problem of cash flow is the fact that the median income fell in 2011. According to the Census Bureau, the median income dropped to its lowest level since 1995. According to the data, median income adjusted for inflation fell to $50,054 for 2011.

Obviously, a reduction in income for the typical family, without a reduction in expenses, could potentially lead to a monthly shortfall.

Several other indicators shed light on just how fragile our society has become and why 40 percent of Americans say they live paycheck to paycheck.1 Let’s break these stats down and see if we can identify other problems that could be affecting cash flow. One that is easily identifiable is the average credit card balance per household. By dividing the total revolving debt by the estimated number of households carrying a credit card, the average debt per household in 2011 was $15,956.

When you combine that information with the fact that the average APR per credit card is 12.78%, is it any wonder many Americans are feeling the financial pinch? 2 Another interesting statistic that can be an indication that things are tight at home is the fact that there are more seniors working than in previous decades. According to the Census Bureau the number of working seniors has steadily increased from 11.1% to 16.7%.

Johnson. By simply adding the unemployment figure and the current inflation number together, according to Okun, you could measure the overall economic and social climate.

The unemployment in July was 8.3% and inflation was 1.41% added together the Misery index is 9.71. The premise is that if unemployment and inflation are high there will be a higher degree of “misery” among the population. I’m not sure how those currently unemployed could be hurting any less, but I suppose we should be thankful that inflation is low and we have a low Misery index.

Next month we will discuss ways to better manage your finances during these uncertain times. In the meantime, I want to give you some homework. Knowing your debt-toincome ratio is important and most Americans don’t know theirs. Determine the amount of outgo you have each month to service your debt. Divide that number by your monthly income. This will give you a percentage number. Next month we will discuss the importance of your debt-to-income ratio and how to improve your overall cash flow.

RANDY C. COWELL Randy C. Cowell is a columnist and President of ACT Financial Services, Inc. in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

He is the author of “God Good-Debt Bad”.

Randy welcomes your thoughts and prayers.

He can be reached at 918-664-0081 or by e-mail at rcowell@htk.com.

How About Some Good News!

But wait a minute All the information isn’t negative. Recent “Misery” index numbers are out and “our” misery seems to be improving. “What is the Misery Index?” you ask. The Misery index is a non-scientific number that was devised by economist Arthur Okun in the 1960’s for President Lyndon B. 1 CareerBuilder survey.

2 Federal Reserve’s G. 19 report on consumer credit.

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I T S Y O U R C H O I C E | T U E S D AY, N O V E MB E R 6, 2012

John Olson Democrat for Congress, First District

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e met with John Olson at his campaign headquarters.

The Democratic convention had just ended and although our intent was to interview him on his stand on the various platform issues, it was too soon for him to have fully studied the language in the platform statements.

However, he graciously agreed to speak on some of these issues.

We found him to be friendly, polished and articulate. There is no surprise as to why he is seen as a rising star in Oklahoma Democratic politics.

When asked for his general thoughts about the Democratic platform, he said…

“I agree with a lot of it, especially on the plan to refocus our attention on small and medium-sized businesses to get the economy going.

I think that is the right answer for us to be able to power our way out this recession. I am a military guy, so I also appreciated the stance on continuing to pursue al-Qaeda to the ends of the earth. And I liked the push towards renewable energies. I think this is important for our energy independence and I see natural gas as the bridge to get us there.”

Afghanistan – “I believe our involvement in Afghanistan has run its course and it is time for us to transition from a military operation (Department of Defense) into a Department of State operation where we handle things through diplomacy. This is a much cheaper, more cost effective way to do things.”

On the importance of the platform… “This campaign is about the 1st District of Oklahoma, to push toward the interests of the people in this district, not the global Democratic platform. As tempting as it is to look at the issues from a global perspective, I think we should rather approach things from a much more local perspective. There are things I would support the President on a 100 percent and there are things I think we could do better. I am not a liberal, moderate or conservative. Instead, I see myself as a hardheaded realist. I try to always look at things with a common sense lens.”

On Abortion. Olson is strongly pro-choice and would 42

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oppose any law that would take us back to what he describes as a time when some women were forced to make unsafe medical decisions and take abortion matters into their own hands. He believes that the federal government should never be involved in this decision. (If abortion should ever be made illegal) He pictures the danger of having “a police state at the doctor’s office.”

“I do think there is a role for the federal government in solving the abortion issue and that is…to educate people.

There is an incredible lack of education about reproduction.

There is also a big problem about domestic violence in the country. There should be a national push to stop it and it should be a bi-partisan thing. It makes sense to ensure that women and men have access to contraception. If we pushed these things we would see a natural decline in the number of abortions.”

Where is Olson’s line in the sand concerning abortion?

When is the embryo actually a baby, deserving governmental protection? For instance, should partial birth abortion be allowed? Olson refused to draw any lines. Instead, he said, “I don’t think any one person has the right line. That is a question which must be answered by the woman after talking to her doctor and her God.” On the contraception, Sandra Fluke issue – Olsen believes healthcare is a fundamental right and that contraception should be part of good healthcare. He predicts the courts will side with the government on the issue of whether Catholic and other religious hospitals should be forced to offer contraceptives. He sees them as “public facilities” and that they have a shared responsibility to make sure everyone has access to this healthcare.

On his faith - Olson describes himself as a Christian. He attends Asbury Methodist Church. But he says he is private about his faith. When asked if he would ever share his faith with others, he says that he would have to know the person very well to be sure he did not to insult the person in any way.

When asked whether he believes in Creation, he said that he indeed believes in a Creator, but also believes that God used evolution in creating life.

John Olson is a husband and father to six children, a former U.S. Army Drill Sergeant, attorney, Afghan War veteran and small-business owner. He is currently still serving in the 1st Battalion, 354th Regiment, and among his official commendations is the Bronze Star for Exemplary Service.

JIM BRIDENSTINE Republican for Congress, First District

J

im Bridenstine surprised some people when he won the Republican primary, ousting incumbent, John Sullivan.

But those who know him best were not surprised at all.

They recognized his ability to lead, his grasp of the issues and the passion in heart for making a difference.

Like the Olson interview, we wanted to know what this candidate liked and disliked about his party’s platform.

On the Republican Convention… Jim Bridenstine enjoyed watching the Republican Convention. He was most impressed with hearing Paul Ryan. “I believe he did a great job. He is articulate, capable and probably one of the smartest men in Congress. He is a great pick for Vice President.”

On Afghanistan – Bridenstine believes the terrorists are looking for attention and that the President and Secretary of State are making a horrible mistake by giving it to them and raising their profile. “Don’t get me wrong, we should have our soldiers defending our consulate and embassies. We should not retreat and not disengage, but we should never give credibility to these anti-American extremist mobs. Doing so further exacerbates the problem.”

On Abortion – About the platform’s stand against abortion – “I believe that life begins at conception and should be welcomed and protected by law. I believe if the life of the mother is at risk, it is a gray area. Everyone has an inherent right to self-defense. Beyond that, I can see no reason for abortion.” Even in the event of rape or incest? “Life begins at conception. If we agree that this is life, how it came into being is less relevant than the fact that it is a human life and that it has value and purpose. You cannot destroy it for convenience.”

On Contraceptives and the rights of hospitals– “Kathleen Sebelius, Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, recently came out with the minimum requirements of what must be provided under ObamaCare. Individuals, businesses and hospitals will now be required to pay for and provide contraceptives including such drugs as Plan B, Ella and other abortifacient drugs (cause abortions) regardless of their religious beliefs. This is wrong.”

On the National Debt – “The biggest issue concerning most people in the First District is the National debt. A lot of people don’t know just how bad the situation is. We currently have a 1.3 trillion dollar deficit; we are 16 trillion dollars in debt; and we have 3 trillion dollars we have to refinance in the next 2-3 years. The chairman of the Federal Reserve, who is responsible for ensuring stability in American markets, is now saying we are on the edge of fiscal cliff. We are either going

to figure out a way to balance the budget, which means that politicians are going to learn how to make unpopular and difficult decisions, or we are going to print money faster than we have ever printed it in order to buy the bonds to fund the government, continuing to destroy the US dollar. I would like to be the citizen legislator who is willing to go and make the tough decisions; who is willing to help get America back on the right track without printing money.”

What if Obama Wins Reelection? “We need a Congress who is willing to NOT appropriate the money needed to enforce Obamacare. We will make sure that every company that wants a waiver gets a waiver and if they don’t, there will be lawsuits against HHS. We are going to look for ways to NOT fund the 16,500 IRS agents that are going to be the enforcers of ObamaCare. We need to do everything we can to dismantle, disrupt, preclude, and slow it down because ObamaCare it is not good for our country.”

On his Faith – “I believe I am a sinner. I believe that my sin condemns me. I believe I am saved through grace through faith in Jesus, who died on the cross and took all of my sins with him. I believe He was resurrected and through my faith in Him I have everlasting life. “ Lieutenant Commander Jim Bridenstine is currently a pilot in the U.S. Navy Reserve where he flies in Central and South America in support of America’s war on drugs. He has an MBA from Cornell University and served as the Executive Director of the Tulsa Air and Space Museum & Planetarium.

Jim is married to Michelle (Ivory) Bridenstine. They have three children, Walker (5), Sarah (3), and they are expecting another child in February. Jim Bridenstine and his family are members of South Tulsa Baptist Church.

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Consider it a Challenge

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eady to quit smoking? It’s easier when you have a challenge.

And it is easier when your church family is behind you, cheering you on.

November 15th is American Cancer Society’s 37th Great American Smokeout Day! Consider it a challenge, a line in the sand, a gauntlet that you and your friends can use as an encouragement to quit…at least for one day. The American Cancer Society is betting that day will be a special day for you, an important step towards a healthier life – one that can lead to reducing your risk for developing cancer and heart disease.

You are not alone! In fact, if you smoke, you are part of more than 45 million Americans with the habit. You most likely already know that smoking tobacco is the single most important thing you can do to prevent disease and premature death and maybe you have tried to quit before. But this time, with the right support behind you, just may be the end of that nasty habit.

If you smoke, set the Great American Smokeout Date of November 15th as the first day of your new journey toward a life free of tobacco. But don’t go it alone; seek some help along the way. Call the Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline and an expert Quit Coach will work with you, side by side, to create a personalized Quitting Plan. Your Quitting Plan will include a quit date, ways to overcome urges, how to use medications correctly, and most importantly, how to stay quit for life.

While the Great American Smokeout encourages smokers to quit tobacco for just one day, we urge you to take it one step further by calling the Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline (1-800-7848669) before GASO and create a personalized Quit Plan and set your quit date for November 15, 2012. The program is free and includes phone-based sessions with a Quit Coach. Quitting is hard, but you can increase your chances of success with help.

• • • •

Friends and Family Congregation and Community Social norm and environmental Change through policy

CREATING A CULTURE OF HEALTH Congregations will receive training and technical assistance from experienced public health professionals in order to adopt and implement wellness policies and plans. Training and support services are offered at no cost to the congregation and its members.

Pathways to Healthy Congregations • Learn how to write and implement wellness policies and mission statements • Learn best practice strategies to encourage congregational wellness — eat better, move more, and be tobacco free!

• Receive free “Tobacco Free Property” signage • Become part of a larger community health network • Be among the first to hear about community health grants and programs • Receive public recognition as a “Healthy Congregation” (e.g. press releases and media announcements) Your congregation can celebrate Great American Smokeout by learning more about the Healthy Congregations Project and begin the process of becoming a healthier congregation on November 15, 2012! Contact Corey Love at 918-595-4267 or e-mail at clove@tulsa-health.org.

IMPACT ON HEALTH The World Health Organization defines health as “the complete state of

Attention all Churches!

JOIN THE HEALTHY CONGREGATIONS PROJECT Local congregations are at the heart of every community throughout the state and we need your help in making tobacco free living the norm while protecting everyone from secondhand smoke exposure. We also need your help to make healthy nutrition and fitness choices “the easy choice” everywhere we live, work, play and pray.

WHAT MAKES THE HEALTHY CONGREGATIONS PROJECT DIFFERENT? • Community-driven, inclusive, and participatory • Geared toward sustainable change • Diverse, knowledgeable project team • Focused on multi-level interventions • Individual 44

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complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity”. Health is more than just access to health care.

Environment is the combination of social, cultural, and economic conditions that impact individual choices and behaviors. Consequently, factors such as level of income, education attainment, occupational status, and race are considered determinants of health. Where you live (i.e. your zip code) also matters.

Oklahoma rank 48th in overall health status • Contributing factors: • Tobacco Use • Poor Diet • Lack of Physical Activity • Inadequate supportive social and physical environments for good health

Kick tobacco for a day, and you might just quit for life. Try it during the Great American Smokeout on November 15th. Free coaching and free patches, gum, or lozenges available.

STEVE MOELLER FLORAL HAVEN

Question: I friend of mine recently lost his mom to cancer. When he went in to make arrangements, he was overwhelmed by the kind of information needed for a death certificate, on top of all the other decisions. What kinds of information are needed and is there a simple form that we could get in advance.

My heart goes out to your friend. There are enough decisions to make, when there has been no preplanning, without having to suddenly try to remember or research the information required by the state. This is why doing some advance planning with a funeral home, even if you choose not to prepay the charges, can be a very positive thing for a family.

The information required for a death certificate includes relatively simple things, such as the person’s name, address, birth date and Social Security number. It also lists the individual’s birth place, father’s full name, mother’s full maiden name, education, dates of military service and cultural heritage. This latter list is the one that sometimes presents a challenge. The fact that grievers have a reduced sense of concentration often makes it hard to remember these less often discussed details and even leads to people making mistakes with the information, which can lead to delays in settling the estate.

While many funeral homes offer booklets with the list of death certificate information required, Floral Haven has take this a step further with their Personal Planning Guide. This booklet, in addition to the vital statistics, has places to note insurance, banking and investment information, as well as a detailed list of personal wishes for final services and the contact information or everyone needing notification. It also includes a place to list your medical history, which is becoming increasing important as genetic links are found with certain diseases that might be passed to future generations. While most adult children have a general knowledge of their parents’ standing, they often do not know all the details that would help them in handling estate matters after a sudden and unexpected death. It is often the case that bank accounts are lost and insurance policies never redeemed, for lack of knowledge of their existence.

Our funeral home even offers people a chance to enter all of the statistical and personal after death wishes into a permanent record with a non-funded pre-arrangement, for those who do not wish to prepay their services. This securely stored record then acts as a roadmap for those left behind and saves them from having to collect the necessary vital statistics. This service is totally free, and especially in this age of blended families, makes things much easier for everyone left behind. Unlike papers placed in a safety deposit box, which may not be accessible until after a death certificate is 46

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filed, this information is immediately available to assist the survivors in making decisions.

Making a prepaid pre-arrangement is the ideal thing to do to assist our family after we are gone. It freezes the costs and eliminates emotionally influenced financial decision making, as well as creating a record of the needed statistical information. (Imagine the savings you might have seen had you been able to prepay and freeze the costs of your children’s education, years in advance.) When this is not a reasonable option, having a permanent record of wishes on file at the funeral home is a wonderful gift to your family, when you can’t be there to help them in person. Since this service is offered free of charge at Floral Haven, it is a shame not to take advantage of it.

STEVE MOELLER Steve Moeller is a licensed funeral director, has been in funeral service for 35 years and the Director of Community Relations at Floral Haven. He is a certified Grief Recovery Specialist and also serves as the Mid-America Educator for the Grief Recovery Institute in California.

Steve has lead Grief Recovery Workshops at Floral Haven for 20 years, is active in a variety of community organizations and is a frequent speaker in matters concerning grief and recover. He also serves on the “Ask The Experts” panel at FuneralPlan.com.

Our free Personal Planning Guide and the option of Non-Funded Pre-Arrangements make protecting your family affordable for everyone!

FLORAL HAVEN

Crematory • Funeral Home • Cemetery • Floral Shop Family Center • Mausoleums • Cremation Gardens (918) 252-2518 www.FloralHaven.com