2020 Ask An Expert

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What’s Inside Hospice Care .......................................... 2-3 Dentist ........................................................ 4 Veterinarian .............................................. 5 HVAC Company ......................................6-7 Granite Counter Tops ................................ 8

Friday, May 1, 2020 • 1C

Hearing Aids ............................................. 9 Garden Center ................................... 10-11 Skilled Nursing ........................................ 12 Garage Door ........................................... 13 Weddings ................................................ 14 Fine Dining Restaurant .......................... 15

ASK AN EXPERT IS A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE SHAWNEE NEWS-STAR

2C Methods for Choosing the Right Dentist

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How to Choose Hospice Care Hospice care is care directed to your comfort and daily support of yourself and family when you are dealing with an illness that you and your physician have decided is beyond a cure.

According to the Hospice Founda�on of America, a third of all Americans choose hospice care when they reach this condi�on. But hospice isn’t only for the pa�ent.

Loved ones also benefit from hospice care, as workers will support them through some of the most difficult moments in life.

You will find hospice workers in assisted living centers, nursing homes, hospitals and residen�al facili�es. More than half of pa�ents receive care in their own homes or the homes of friends and family.

While all hospice centers are regulated by the government, each facility has meaningful differences in personnel, policies and facili�es.

Here are some things to consider when selec�ng hospice care: • You can choose which hospice company to use. If you do not know which hospice that you want, you can call two or more possible companies and have their representa�ve come to describe their program at no cost. This will give you the opportunity to ask special ques�on that are meaningful to you.

• All the hospices in your area that are Medicare cer�fied and state licensed will offer all the required services in a similar fashion however each hospice has the opportunity to add services they have found helpful in pervious cases that are not required by the state or Medicare.

Massage therapy, IV therapy, specialty equipment that is unique for your needs as well as many other care modali�es.

• A quality hospice program will give you all the �me and personal a�en�on you need to ease your mind with a focus on enhancing the life you have s�ll to live.

• Part of picking hospice involves having the right feeling. If the hospice staff is personable and makes you feel comfortable, that’s a good sign. You need a group of professional, competent, hospice workers that gives you the security and trust it takes to complete this effort successfully at home with the people you love.

Referrals Every pa�ent who receives hospice treatment must be qualified by a physician. This means there is a life expectancy of six months or less.

Since some physicians may hesitate to broach the subject of hospice care, you may need to bring it up yourself. Ask whether hospice care would be appropriate and which services might be most helpful.

Hospice care has been growing since the 1980s. Many people are realizing that it is possible to die with peace and dignity in the environment of their choice. Hospice can help the end-of-life experience be a li�le easier for the pa�ent and loved ones.

Elec�ng hospice does not take away your Medicare or insurance benefits for other health care needs.

The Na�onal Hospice and Pallia�ve Care Organiza�on has long said that people with the same or similar condi�ons that choose Hospice when compared to those that do not u�lize hospice tend to live longer lives.

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...because every moment counts Angelic Family Hospice provides you with 24 hour professional staff devoted to your spiritual and medical needs.

Longest Standing Hospice in Shawnee

421 N. Beard in Shawnee 405-275-8300

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Methods for Choosing the Right Dentist

break a tooth or need to have a root canal done right away, you will want to use your chosen den�st. You don’t want to have to search for a den�st when you are in pain.

Lead �me for appointments is another considera�on. Some offices might be able to see you right away, while others may have a three-week wait �me.

Your prospec�ve den�st should accept your dental insurance. If don’t have dental insurance, inquire about payment plans. The office should give you an es�mate before performing any work.

Few elements of our personal health say more about us than the quality of our teeth. We’re taught from a very young age that caring for our teeth will save us a life�me of pain and costly procedures — and that’s very true. So choosing a dental professional you can trust, along with scheduling regular care and cleaning can result in just that — a life�me of beau�ful, healthy teeth.

If you don’t already have a regular den�st, choosing the right dental health professional is essen�al to helping you maintain your health and appearance in addi�on to helping you avoid nasty dental problems down the road.

Find a den�st who makes you feel comfortable and explains every procedure in an understandable way, and you’ll be in good hands.

Finding a den�st near your home or workplace will help you make your appointments on �me. When searching for a den�st, make sure the office hours work for your schedule.

So how should you start your search?

local den�sts. O�en�mes you can find specials and discounts.

Ask Around

Interview Den�sts

First, ask your social network for recommenda�ons. Friends, family and colleagues can be a great resource.

Searching on the Internet for dental offices in your area will also help. Professionals o�en have their own websites, which include the backgrounds of those working there. The website may also tell you about how they handle procedures and appointments, as well as specialized services they offer.

Your local newspaper will likely have adver�sements from

Once you have gathered a list, begin calling each prospec�ve den�st. You can talk to a recep�onist or other staff person if the den�st is unavailable.

Check to make sure the den�st earned the necessary degree from a reputable school and is current on all licensing and con�nuing educa�onal requirements. Ideally, he will be familiar with the latest dental technologies and trends.

Ask if the dental office provides emergency services. If you

Office Visit

When someone meets all of your requirements, visit the office. The staff should be professional and friendly. Every den�st should be willing to answer all of your ques�ons.

Some people are afraid of den�sts or of pain. If you have any concerns, communicate with the staff and den�st. Many professionals are willing to go above and beyond to help you work through these issues.

A basic oral health history should be taken by the den�st or staff. They should tell you about future treatment and preven�on op�ons. A quality den�st will help you feel comfortable during your visit.

The best den�sts offer friendly, happy dental experiences.

Teeth are extremely important to your overall health. They can also help or hinder your appearance. Finding a good den�st is like finding a friend who consistently brings out your best smile.

Impress with a Smile!

Renalla K. Ellis, D.D.S.

Gentle Family Dentistry New Patients and Children Welcome Caring Family Oriented Atmosphere

Preventative Dentistry Cosmetic Dentistry Restorative Dentistry 2510 E. Independence, Ste #600 Shawnee, OK 74804

(405) 273-2002 www.Impressions-dental.com

Impressions Dental

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How to Choose a Veterinarian Chances are you think of your pet as a member of the family.

Some even think of their pets as “children.” Either way, you’ll want to ensure your pet is in the best of health and lives a long, vibrant life. So you’ll want to choose a veterinarian carefully, just as you would your own doctor.

Taking your pet to the vet regularly can save its life. For one thing, you can catch an illness in its early stages. And catching a disease early could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars.

But in a difficult economy, pet care might get overlooked. Rou�ne care might even seem unnecessary. A�er all, do humans skip medical and dental check-ups if they seem like they’re in good shape?

Unfortunately, pets age faster than human beings. Their bodies and internal systems can change rapidly, some�mes in a ma�er of a few months.

Rou�ne veterinary care will help your pet to live a longer and happy life.

Choosing a good veterinarian that suits you and your pet can seem like a difficult task. If you follow these guidelines, you should be able to find a professional that will give your pet the best care possible.

Ask for Referrals Your family and friends may know a good veterinarian. Listen to their experiences with a cri�cal ear. You need to find someone who is professional, compassionate and �mely. Ask specific ques�ons, such as whether the clinic staff likes animals. Do they respond to concerns in a �mely manner?

Research veterinary and veterinarian clinics on the Internet.

Make a list of prospec�ve candidates, then check with the Be�er Business Bureau in your state to see if there have been any complaints against these professionals. How were the complaints resolved?

Some people need extra services, such as daycare, boarding facili�es and pet training. You may also need to have your pet groomed.

Find out if the prospec�ve veterinary clinic provides these services.

Make a Visit A�er making a list of choices, visit the veterinary office or clinic.

Call ahead and request a tour of facili�es. The staff should have the �me to answer your ques�ons.

You should see a clean and well-maintained office. Observe how the staff interacts with clients and pets. Are they warm toward the animals and owners? The employees should have an affinity for animals.

Sit in the wai�ng area and introduce yourself to other clients.

Find out if they are happy with the services and staff. Also, inquire about prices to verify it is within your budget.

If you feel uncomfortable during your visit, consider taking your services elsewhere.

Finding the best vet for you and your pet will take �me and research. You should put the same effort into finding a doctor for your animal as you would in finding one for yourself.

The bo�om line is that your pet’s health is a coopera�ve undertaking between you and your veterinarian. Finding the perfect vet for you and your furry, scaly or feathered friend will ensure your pet is with you for years to come.

At Our Grooming Facility, we promote a fun and enjoyable grooming experience for your pet.

M, W, TH, F: 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM • TUES. 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM SAT. 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

◆ Boarding facility ◆ 1/2 price spay/neuters ◆ Wellness packages ◆ Online appointment scheduling and RX refills

121 W. 45th • Shawnee, OK 74804

405-273-3700 www.nsvhok.com

Serving the Shawnee Community since 2011!

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How to Choose An HVAC Company It almost never fails that your hea�ng and air condi�oning systems break down during extreme weather.

That’s a nightmare most of us have experienced, so it’s essen�al you have a professional, reliable HVAC company on standby to remedy any issues.

The best HVAC contractors are helpful and reliable, but a poor contractor can cost you extra money and heartache.

Good word of mouth will go a long way toward helping you find the best professionals in your area.

Create a list of candidates and call the Be�er Business Bureau, your state's board of contractors or the builders' associa�on to check on their reputa�ons. Your town's building inspec�on office may also have informa�on for you. Avoid companies who have many complaints on their record.

Reputable HVAC companies will usually belong to recognized professional and trade organiza�ons. Some wellknown organiza�ons include the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, the Air-Condi�oning and Refrigera�on Ins�tute, and the American Society of Hea�ng, Refrigera�on and Air-Condi�oning Engineers. Membership in one of these organiza�ons is not automa�c. Applicants are required to have certain cer�fica�ons, meet professional standards and meet or exceed other requirements before they are admi�ed.

Before any work begins, verify that all the required building permits are in place. Most companies will file permits on your behalf at the local building codes office.

But don't assume that it has happened. Check with the permi�ng office first. Work done without proper permits could result in a fine and �me delay.

Upon narrowing the list, call the remaining ones and ask about pricing, guarantees and warran�es. Also inquire about how long it would take to complete a job and the manufacturers' brands they use.

Have a load calcula�on done before installing a new system in any building. The best companies perform a thorough calcula�on rather than es�mate. Buildings change over �me due to founda�ons cracking or se�ling.

It will affect the efficiency of any equipment.

If you are purchasing new equipment, find out if you need a separate service contractor or if rou�ne maintenance and repairs are included in the price of installa�on.

Does the company provide around-the-clock emergency service?

The HVAC company shouldn't use the old unit to determine the proper size of a new one. If your old unit was inadequate, you will want to install a unit that is a different size. Speak with your HVAC installer to determine the right size and model for you.

High quality HVAC companies are fully licensed, bonded and insured. If a worker is injured or causes damage to your property, that insurance should cover it.

Otherwise, you could be liable for the damages. Your insurance premiums would likely increase as a result.

Ask your HVAC contractor to perform annual checkups to verify that the unit is running at peak efficiency.

With these �ps, you can choose a reliable HVAC business that will help you for years to come.

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Thank you ... for nominating & voting WATKINS HEATING AND AIR BEST HEATING AND AC SERVICE Thank you for voting for Watkins Heating & Air as your Number 1 company in the Shawnee market! We are proud to have been part of this community for the past 34 years.

Watkins Heating & Air installs quality systems in your home as if they live there utilizing drop cloths, shoe covers & clean up after the job is complete. We believe in following quality installation procedures offering a wide range of air conditioning, heating, & refrigeration services including air quality control testing!

NO MATTER WHAT, WE’RE HERE FOR YOU!!!!

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How to Choose Granite Countertops Granite countertops are now an almost-standard demand for those in the market for a new home. Adding granite countertops to your exis�ng home also instantly increases its value while changing the look of your kitchen and bathrooms.

One of the things real estate agents frequently cite as a major selling point for homes is a kitchen that features the �meless durability of granite counters. That’s why granite has quickly risen to become one of the most popular surfaces used for kitchen countertops today.

If you’re in the market for new countertops, you should definitely consider granite. Here are some things to keep in mind.

Educate Yourself All granite is not created equal. While all granite around the world is produced naturally from the same geologic processes, resul�ng in a variety of colors interspersed with quartz crystals, there is quite a wide varia�on in the material itself. Choosing your granite purely from pictures in a catalog or from small samples could result in disappointment. Seeing the selec�on in person can inform you about all the types of granite available and how they vary in color and mineral composi�on. Going into one of our supplier warehouses allow you to hand pick your slabs.

granite-like look. The countertops you assumed were granite in a hotel or at a friend’s house could have actually been a man-made material. A good countertop company can help you understand the strengths and weaknesses of every type of material on the market. Keep in mind, though, that man-made doesn’t necessarily mean less expensive.

Fi�ng Your Design Depending on where it comes from, granite can range in color from black to white, and every shade of brown, blue and red.

There is also tremendous varia�on in the veining and crystal composi�on of each slab.

While picking the right stone can be a ma�er of personal choice, there are some basic rules to follow. Just like with paint colors,

Is it Granite?

As the popularity of granite has skyrocketed in the past decade, so have the alterna�ve products that are designed to have a

lighter stone colors can make a small room look bigger and more open. Likewise, dark colored granite can make a small kitchen feel even smaller.

If your kitchen is big, roomy and well-lit, your choices are almost endless because any slab has the poten�al to look good in it.

But for smaller, darker kitchens, your choices will be a bit more limited because dark countertops can make the space feel gloomy and hemmed-in.

You should also look for a color that contrasts and pairs well with your cabinet materials. Depending on the look you’re aiming for, dark colored granite can look amazing when paired with lighter stains of wood cabinetry.

The other colors in your decor will play a role in your choice, too, from the flooring to the paint on the walls and even the kitchen hardware and appliances you’re using. Some countertop companies will even offer the experience of a decorator to help you make the right choice.

If you think you might sell your home in the near future, you should think about what poten�al buyers might think about the countertops you select. You wouldn’t want to choose something that could fall quickly out of style or be a par�cularly strong, polarizing color if you might be selling the house soon. Conserva�ve choices should win out in this case.

Be careful with your selec�on and educate yourself about the wide variety of granite styles and products on the market, and you can add beauty and value to your home for years to come.

Enjoy the timeless beauty and elegance of our durable stone, marble and granite surfaces.

618 KICKAPOO SPUR • SHAWNEE, OK SCOTT • STEVE • MARY

(405) 214-7400

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How to Choose A Hearing Aid Tips for Selecting a Quality Hearing Aid

may look similar but produce dramatically different results.

More than 40 million Americans suffer from some form of hearing loss or impairment. Difficulty hearing can have a huge impact on our lives, from struggling to understand conversations to enjoying our favorite forms of entertainment.

The difference is in the internal electronics. Nearly all hearing aids available today are digital.

They will filter out background noise, enabling the wearer to hear a conversation clearly. This technology is particularly effective in crowded settings.

Hearing aids can help relieve the consequences of this condition and ensure that the hearing-impaired lead richer, fuller lives.

This technology can be tailored to help with your particular kind of hearing loss. If you have an outdated hearing aid, consider upgrading to a more modern device. It will help your hearing be as close to natural as possible.

If you think you may need a hearing aid, it’s a good idea to talk to an expert. Types of hearing loss vary widely, and are sometimes quite different from person to person.

Recent innovations in hearing aids include digital processors to isolate and amplify the frequencies a patient needs most. Ask your doctor about your options for a quality hearing device.

Styles Gone are the days of bulky, obvious hearing aids.

The most popular hearing aids on the market fit completely within the ear canal. While they are attractive and barely noticeable, their small size means they are typically more expensive.

Options When you are searching for a hearing aid, look for special features that will enhance your hearing and your life. Some examples include: Bluetooth connections: You could connect wirelessly to Bluetooth electronic devices, such as smart phones. It allows you to hear phone conversations directly through your hearing aid. Telephone adaptors: This feature senses when you are talking on the phone and adjusts the setting to make it more clear during your conversation.

Other styles include half-shell, full-shell, behind-the-ear and open-fit hearing aids.

Directional microphone: You can adjust your device to pick up sound that is directly in front of you. For example, when you are having one-on-one conversations with a person, it is useful to turn the microphone to improve your hearing. You may also change the setting to a more general setting that would be useful at public performances or concerts.

Because these hearing aids come in a range of sizes and prices, consult with a specialist to help you choose the right style to fit your needs.

Remote control: Some devices allow you to adjust the settings without touching it. A remote control can change the directional microphone or amplification.

Internal Electronics

There are a lot of beautiful sounds in the world. Don’t let your hearing loss cause you to miss any more of them. A hearing aid can help you.

The design of a hearing aid will make a large difference in cost and performance. Two devices

HELPING OKLAHOMANS HEAR FOR OVER 45 YEARS!

“The Digital Experts” Family Owned & Operated

1-800-834-0841 405-273-3363 All credit cards accepted

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Locations in Edmond, Norman, Seminole and Oklahoma City

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How to Choose a Garden Center Garden centers and nurseries are special places for those with a green thumb or those who wish to develop gardening skills. These outlets are run by gardening professionals with a deep level of exper�se who can help experienced and novice gardeners alike in choosing the right flowers and plants for their gardens.

Because you’ll likely want to develop a rela�onship with a garden center, choosing the right outlet will help you get the most out of your garden.

Here’s what you should look for when selec�ng a new garden supply store.

Do the Research Research will help you determine which garden center is best for you.

Look at the center's catalog or website. Not only should it be filled with quality products, it should also have informa�on to help you become more successful. Staff advice should be easy to understand and apply. Remember, they are not only retailers but also experts in their field.

Quality garden centers offer hands-on training and other classes on various gardening topics.

Exper�se can also be defined by media presence. The specialists at the garden center you are considering should be on the short list that the media uses.

Your friends and neighbors may have referrals.

Does someone in your social network love gardening? If so, then ask who they use.

While some garden centers stock a wide variety of brands and products, most have a few products they specialize in.

Visit Garden Centers Once you have researched garden centers, visit two or three loca�ons before making a final decision.

Talk to a sales person. Think of a problem you experienced in the past and ask them for a solu�on.

The sales people should be knowledgeable about remedies. Note his or her demeanor and a�tude.

Find out how long they have been in business and more about the owner. Good centers are usually in the same place, operated by the same people for a very long �me.

Take a look at the plants. Do they look healthy?

Are they well-maintained? Is there a decent variety?

Typically, plants grown in green houses are better quality. A�er all, they are produced to be grown in your area. Plants grown locally usually have fewer diseases. A plant may not appear diseased un�l you take it home.

Inquire about how the plants are produced.

"Open pollinated" designates a seed or plant will reproduce itself purely if a seed is properly saved from the fruit of the plant. An organic seed or plant has been produced without ar�ficial or chemical pes�cides.

Gene�cally modified plants are created by laboratory technology that manipulates the plant's genes. For example, instead of mixing two different kinds of corn to create one that is more resistant to diseases, they may combine genes from corn and a totally unrelated tomato plant. These modifica�ons do not happen naturally in the breeding process.

Many people may be cau�ous about using genetically altered seeds and plants, but there are advantages to them. On commercial farms, this type of plant has plenty of assets over organic plants. In a backyard garden, however, gene�cally modified plants are usually not necessary.

When shopping at a garden center, understand the types of plants they offer. There should be a labeling system in place. If not, ask the staff for more informa�on. Commercial crops are more likely to have gene�c modifica�on.

Once you’ve done your research and know what you want, head on over to your local garden center and get started improving your garden.

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Spring is here!

Fox Farm Organic Soil & Nutrients Baccto Organic Products Fertilizers • Mulches • Top Soil

We supply all your Landscaping needs!

Trees • Roses • Vegetables • Shrubs Pottery • Birdbaths • Bird Seed Garden Tools • Gloves & etc.

(405) 273-3340 • 40006 Hardesty Rd • Shawnee, OK garden@shawneemilling.com

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How to Choose a Skilled Nursing Facility for Your Loved One

If you’re searching for a nursing home or facility that offers more advanced care for loved ones suffering from chronic illnesses or complica�ons, advanced age or mobility issues, chances are you need to consider a skilled nursing facility.

A skilled nursing facility is usually much more skilled and regulated than an assisted living facility. That's because the staff at skilled nursing facili�es provide and administer prescrip�on medica�ons. Assisted living facility staff does not usually have the same authoriza�on.

If you're searching for a skilled nursing facility for a loved one you have hundreds of op�ons to pick from. The problem is, it can be difficult to sort through all of your op�ons.

Your best choices are facili�es that have high scores from state agencies such as the nursing-home regulatory agency or department of health. The nursing staff in these facili�es are required to complete a formal cer�fica�on process.

As a result, Your loved one will need reassurance that he or she will be safe and well taken care of by a highly skilled nursing staff.

Select a facility close to your loved one's family and friends.

It should be easy to see your loved one. Frequent visits will help ease the transi�on from independent living to a skilled nursing environment.

You can form an accurate opinion by visi�ng several facili�es.

Reputable centers will have no problems with scheduling inter-

views with staff or giving tours of the living areas and grounds. If a facility doesn't allow you to see these areas or have a mee�ng with the director, it should be dropped from your list.

Cleanliness, cheerful decor and happy residents neatly dressed are symbols of a quality facility.

Speak to current residents and their families to get a good assessment of the facility. Family members will likely provide the most unbiased and unvarnished opinion of the facility.

Most high-quality skilled nursing facili�es are significant investments. They provide a much higher level of care and so they cost more. Talk with an a�orney who specializes in nursing facility cases for advice on cost, as well as quality of care.

The decision to put your loved one in a par�cular facility is not permanent. If your family member is not receiving good care or shows signs of abuse, you have the right to remove him or her.

Frequent visits are important so you can monitor the health and well-being of your loved one. See him or her at different �mes of the day to verify the level of care.

Take all the �me you need when searching for a skilled nursing facility.

Pu�ng a loved one in a facility can be difficult and emo�onally challenging. Finding the best one you can afford will give you peace of mind.

24 Hour Nursing Care Cable T.V. Housekeeping Laundry Services Well-Balanced Meals Individualized by a Dietician

Our residents take pride in making their room their home.

The home has three living areas, and three dining areas.

Semi-private and private rooms, include:

Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center

24 Hour Skilled Nursing Care Social Service • Activities

Shawnee (405) 273-7661 Colonial Estates 535 W. Federal • Shawnee

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How to Choose Garage Doors

It’s not o�en that homeowners are faced with the issue of replacing garage doors. But like almost every other aspect of home maintenance, garage doors eventually either require replacement or need upda�ng to match the look of your home.

If your garage faces the front of the house, a new door could drama�cally improve your curb appeal and change the overall look of your home.

A garage door is also an excellent security asset for your home, allowing you to secure your vehicle inside.

If you’re thinking about installing a new garage door, you may be surprised at just how many op�ons are on the market — and how affordably they can be installed.

The Look

Garage doors have seen an explosion in styles, materials and colors that are designed to match the architecture of any home, from rural barns to cra�sman bungalows or sleek urban getaways. So if you thought your choices were limited to simple sheet metal styles, think again.

While you may already have an idea of the exact type of garage door you want to see installed, some homeowners seek the advice of a designer to help make the decision to pick the right style and color combina�on. Some garage door retailers will be able to help you visualize what the different doors would look like — complete with color and material samples, and perhaps even so�ware that will show a picture of what your home would look like.

You should also pay close a�en�on to the materials. Today’s

We at Winkler Door Company value our customers health and well being. As we endure hardships of the pandemic, we would like you, our customers, to know we are abiding by all CDC and government requirements to limit contact and slow the spread.

interior of your house.

In general, the higher the “R value,” the be�er off you’ll be. It is a good idea to pay a�en�on to this in extreme climates.

Local Requirements

garage doors can be made from expensive hardwoods, textured vinyl, fiberglass or basic aluminum, all of which will have a big impact on the look and longevity of your door.

Pay close a�en�on to the maintenance needs of whatever material you choose. Some will hold their color longer than others, and real wood doors can require regular staining and sealing every few years to keep them looking spectacular.

Insula�on Depending on your climate, the insula�on of your garage door can be an important factor to help reduce your energy bills.

Just like windows and insula�on in your a�c, garage doors come with an “R factor” ra�ng that tells you how well they insulate your home from outside temperatures. This is especially important in heated garages. But even an insulated door on unheated garages can make a posi�ve impact on your energy usage if it can keep the hot and cold weather away from the

Before you make the purchase, you should also check to see if your city, county or homeowner’s associa�on has any special requirements for garage doors.

Homeowner’s associa�ons, in par�cular, may have very picky requirements about what materials and styles can be used in your neighborhood. Make sure your choice meets with the approval of any local authori�es or boards that control their use.

Safety A garage door is typically the largest moving object installed in any home, and safety should be a considera�on.

Ask your garage door retailer about any special safety features on the door you select. It should have a design that won’t pinch your fingers or hurt small children if they get caught under it. Make sure it will be installed according to all applicable safety codes in your area.

Opener Finally, when you install a new garage door it’s usually a good idea to install a new opener, too. Make sure you factor this into the cost and explore all your op�ons — including the latest models that can be closed remotely via smartphones and operate very quietly and efficiently.

Come by our new showroom and check out all of our products!

405-214-9100 17804 Drummond Rd. Shawnee, OK

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How to Choose a Bridal Shop Wedding day. It’s a day many women dream of — and one which will be enshrined by countless memories and photographs.

That’s why choosing a wedding dress becomes of paramount concern. It’s a �me when style meets fantasy and choosing what to wear becomes the most personal of choices.

But because trends come and go, choosing a bridal shop to turn dreams into reality heightens your chances of finding the right dress for the most special of occasions.

Dress Styles Look through bridal magazines, do research on the internet and a�end bridal shows to understand current styles and colors before you head to the dress shop. Check out styles and how they look on different bodies to get an idea of what your best dress will look like.

Will the style fit your body shape? Will it emphasize the right features and mask the ones you want to downplay?

A�er you have discovered a few styles you like, research bridal shops that have those styles. Some stores might even tutor you on which styles will be fla�ering on you.

Some shops have ready-to-wear dresses that can be altered, while others make custom dresses. This op�on is more personalized, but also costlier.

Color and Size

White is the tradi�onal wedding dress color. But there are more op�ons than you may think.

All whites are not the same. Look for a tone that gives you a

natural glow.

You don't have to wear white. Today brighter colors combined with simpler cuts are increasingly popular.

As you compare bridal shops, check to see it each store offers a selec�on of dresses in your size.

Curvy women should have many styles available.

Budget Cost is an important thing to keep in mind while shopping for your dress. The price will vary according to the shop, the design of the dress, and the size. Some bridal bou�ques can accommodate a wide range of price points.

Others prefer to work with a more exclusive clientele.

Carefully plan out your budget and do your best to stay within the limits. Many shops will work with you to help you find something you will love that won’t break your finances.

Altera�ons It is rare to find a bridal dress that fits perfectly from the moment you take it off the rack.

Most dresses will need to be altered.

You will likely purchase your dress well in advance of the wedding date. Your body may change in the ensuing months.

You might have to make mul�ple trips to the tailor in

the days leading up to the wedding. Choose a bridal shop that makes altera�ons convenient.

Most importantly, don't forget to budget for this service.

Convenience

Start by searching for stores in your community.

Researching local bridal shops on the internet will give you a good source of informa�on not only on the stores available in your area, but also what type of service and merchandise they have.

Keep tabs on your local newspapers. Many bridal shops run ads and coupons and you could save a lot of money on your dress. Some local newspapers have special sec�ons for brides which include the area bridal shops.

How much room does the bridal shop have?

Remember that you must be comfortable in your dress.

Weddings and recep�ons require si�ng, standing and dancing. You don’t want to get a dress, no ma�er how beau�ful, that you can’t move comfortably in.

A good retailer will encourage you to consider how the dress might feel in and even suggest walking and sit�ng to see how the dress feels and looks.

20 W. Main Suit 106 Shawnee OK

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Friday, May 1, 2020 • 15C

How to Choose A Fine Dining Restaurant Fresh and local is sweeping the fine dining world. Not only does choosing a local fine dining restaurant support your community, but it can also elevate your tastes with a unique and flavorful experience you just can’t find at chain restaurants.

The term fine dining typically brings to mind a certain type of atmosphere with crisp, white table cloths and waiters and waitresses dressed in black and white. Fine dining also offers patrons the very best in food, drink, and services. Many fine dining restaurants offer an atmosphere that is casual enough for lunch but elegant enough for a nice evening out or a special occasion.

You should be greeted warmly, escorted to your seat, and have a server who is knowledgeable on all aspects of the menu.

Fine dining restaurants should offer a full bar service with a knowledgeable bar staff.

Each fine dining restaurant is unique, but all share a few common characteris�cs. With precise a�en�on to detail, perfect execu�on, and excep�onal service, every fine dining restaurant aims for a top-notch experience. As a guest in a fine dining restaurant, you’re paying for more than the food. You’re seeking a wholly different experience.

Paul’s Place

120 W. MacArthur St. Shawnee, OK 74804

Steak, Seafood & Grill

Hours: Tues.-Fri. Lunch 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Tues.-Thurs. Dinner 4:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Fri.-Sat. Dinner 4:30 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Closed Sunday & Monday

STEAKHOUSE Take-Out • Catering • Dining • Full Bar

275-5650

www.paulsplacesteakhouse.com

16C • Friday, May 1, 2020

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Let’s keep local business strong, together. support local.

Now is the time to rally behind local business.

USA TODAY’s Support Local initiative is sparking communities across the country to take action and make it happen.

Say ‘thank you’ to the local businesses you love by purchasing gift cards and online services, or add your own business to our free listings to receive support from your community.

Please visit supportlocal.usatoday.com to join the cause.