Tw consumerguide2014

Supplement to the Tulsa World, Sunday, April 13, 2014

CHOOSE WISELY!

2014 CONSUMER GUIDE TO LOCAL BUSINESSES SUNDAY, APRIL 13 SHOP FOR:

FINANCIAL • HEALTH CARE • HOME • RETAIL

Home HOW TO

April 13, 2014

TULSA WORLD SUPPLEMENT • 2

Consumer Guide To Local Businesses

choose replacement windows Windows are a key element in home energy efficiency Windows can enhance or detract from the beauty and energy efficiency of your home. Make a well-informed selection to ensure satisfaction for years to come.

CONSIDER THIS When replacing old or poorly performing windows, cost is a major factor for most homeowners. However, initial cost should not be the only deciding factor, because the least expensive choice may save money in the short-term but end up costing more in the long-term. If the window is poorly constructed, you can end up paying more for frequent replacement costs over the years.

The final cost for a replacement window will vary based on factors such as the brand, size and type. In general, steel and wood are the most expensive choices, fiberglass costs less than steel and wood, and vinyl is the least expensive material.

Maintenance-free virgin vinyl windows are a good investment that will save you time with no painting or scraping required.

These replacement windows will not warp or rot over time so they will continue to operate like new for years to come.

IN STYLE Windows come in many styles, from double-hung and casement to bay, bow or garden windows.

Double-hung windows are the most common in homes today.

These windows are desirable because both sashes can be opened for ventilation, and they tilt-in for easy cleaning.

Casement windows are easy to operate and a popular option for more vertical openings or as a combination with a picture window

or bay and bow windows.

Bay, bow and garden windows can add extra light and style to the home.

Bay windows are three-lite projection windows with a fixed picture window in the center and side windows that can be fixed or operating with double-hung or casement windows.

Bow windows are units made up of four to six windows in a graceful arc shape with a shallow insulated seat area.

Typically found in kitchens, garden windows can bring a little of the outdoors inside with extra light and shelving for plants or other decorative features.

Most window openings can be converted to one of these options.

ENERGY SAVINGS “Up to 30 percent of your energy loss can be through your windows,” said Daniel LeBlanc, division manager of Champion Windows, Sun Rooms, Roofs and Home Exteriors of Tulsa. “With today’s rising energy costs, that can cost you a lot of money. Choosing Energy Star-rated replacement windows with Comfort 365 glass will result in lower utility bills and being more comfortable in your home year-round.”

Comfort 365 glass in windows also blocks 95 percent of harmful ultraviolet rays, reducing the problem of fading in carpets, drapes and furniture.

When selecting vinyl replacement windows, look for welded sash and frames for strength and durability. A quality spacer, which separates the two panes of glass around the edge, will reduce heat loss and minimize condensation. Foam filling in the vinyl frame provides additional insulation.

Select a window company that offers free, no-obligation, inhome consultations and a factory showroom with life-size, operating replacement window styles so you can see, touch and test the quality.

“

Up to 30 percent of your energy loss can be through your windows. With today’s rising energy costs, that can cost you a lot of money.

”

— Daniel LeBlanc, division manager of Champion Windows, Sun Rooms, Roofs and Home Exteriors of Tulsa

CHAMPION WINDOWS Established in 1953

3 • TULSA WORLD SUPPLEMENT

Windows

April 13, 2014

Consumer Guide To Local Businesses

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Lifestyles HOW TO

April 13, 2014

TULSA WORLD SUPPLEMENT • 4

Consumer Guide To Local Businesses

choose an MBA program Education is key to a bright future Excellence, dedication and integrity are core values at The University of Tulsa. In fact, the school’s Graduate Business degree programs are all accredited by AACSB International The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, the highest standard of achievement for business schools.

The U.S. News & World Report’s 2015 Best Graduate Schools ranking placed The University of Tulsa MBA program in the top 100 programs in the nation.

OPTIONS The breadth and depth of academic resources offered at The University of Tulsa, combined with program flexibility, offer students unparalleled opportunities.

Whether you are interested in full-time, part-time or online studies, TU has programs that fit your schedule and learning style. Also, your undergraduate degree can be from any field of study, and professional work experience is not always necessary.

With a 9:1 student-to-faculty ratio, you will never be a “number” to the business school’s professors. Nearly 30 fulltime faculty members teach at the graduate level. Passionate, approachable and accessible, they skillfully combine academic theory with real-world experience.

Whether your interest is in executive management, sophisticated quantitative models or the intricacies of tax accounting, TU’s Collins College of Business has a graduate program to take your career to the next level.

PLAN AHEAD When choosing an MBA program, one should: • Research options based on your needs/wants from a grad program; • Visit with an admissions representative to learn more about specific schools and programs; • Think about the quality of the degree — not just the cost — to make sure the value lasts; • Meet all deadlines set by the school to better your chances of getting in and earning a scholarship; • Be realistic about the time commitment the program will require and be sure you can manage it even with a busy work and personal schedule; and • Get excited about your opportunities!

SCHOLARSHIPS More than 80 percent of TU’s graduate business students are receiving some form of financial assistance, either through scholarships, graduate assistantships or company tuition-reimbursement. Talk with one of the college’s advisors and let them show you just how affordable The University of Tulsa can be.

Long before students arrive, TU’s Business Career Center is laying the groundwork to help launch or further their careers.

More than 200 companies annually turn to The University of Tulsa to hire its graduates, resulting in 96 percent job placement of graduate business students after graduation.

As a graduate business student at TU’s Collins College of Business, you will embark on a professional learning journey that capitalizes on your skills and provides a solid business foundation that will serve you well throughout life. All faculty and staff at The University of Tulsa are committed to helping you succeed in your journey to a fulfilling career and professional life.

The breadth and depth of academic resources offered at The University of Tulsa, combined with program flexibility, offer students unparalleled opportunities.

Take advantage of scholarship awards at TU in the upcoming fall semester.

THE UNIVERSITY OF TULSA Excellence • Dedication Integrity

5 • TULSA WORLD SUPPLEMENT

April 13, 2014

Consumer Guide To Local Businesses

TAKE THE NEXT STEP...

With a graduate degree from The University of Tulsa’s top 100 Collins College of Business.

Nationally Recognized Programs

Full-time & Part-time MBA

Master of Accountancy

MS in Finance

Ample scholarships are available, but the deadline to apply for fall 2014 is approaching.

To learn more about opportunities in TU’s Collins College of Business, visit www.utulsa.edu/collins, or call 918-631-3660.

the university of

Collins College of Business

Lifestyles HOW TO

April 13, 2014

TULSA WORLD SUPPLEMENT • 6

Consumer Guide To Local Businesses

choose a veterinarian Effective communication is essential Your pet is a precious part of the family, and a trusted veterinarian is the second most important person in her life. When searching for this medical expert, look for someone who will meet both your needs and your pet’s. It’s vital that you both feel comfortable with the doctor’s competence and manner as well as the staff members.

Keep in mind that the worst time to start looking for a veterinarian is when you desperately need one. Plan ahead when your head is clear and emotions aren’t running high.

SEARCH To find a good vet, begin by asking your friends, family and neighbors for recommendations. You may also want to ask others who regularly work with pets, such as a groomer, dog trainer, boarding kennel employee or pet sitter. Personal recommendations are a good place to start.

Some veterinary hospitals are members of the American Animal Hospital Association, which signifies that it has met AAHA’s standards. Other veterinarians are board certified in a specific area of veterinary medicine, such as ophthalmology, surgery or cardiology.

EXPLORE After narrowing your search, schedule a visit to meet the staff, tour the facility and learn about the veterinarian’s policies. Any veterinarian should be glad to meet with you and show you around.

Write down your questions ahead of time so you’ll be sure to cover all your concerns.

When you visit the facility, weigh the factors that are most

important to you. A convenient location or fee that fits your budget may rate high on your list, but more often than not, pet owners usually will drive farther or pay a few extra dollars to get the care they desire for their pet.

Here are some things to look for in your tour: Is the location convenient and parking adequate? Are appointments required?

How many veterinarians are in the practice? Note the hours of operation.

During the tour, check out the treatment areas. Is the facility clean and well-organized? Are dog and cat cages in separate areas?

Are the cages clean and dry? Ask the staff about kennel procedures.

Is the office a relaxed, professional atmosphere where the staff communicate effectively? Are discounts available for senior citizens or multi-pet households? What emergency services are available?

Does the vet refer patients to specialists? How are patients evaluated before anesthesia and surgery? What is the protocol for pain management?

Choose a clinic that will allow you to see the same doctor each time so that he or she will become familiar with you and your pet.

This will also go a long way to relaxing you as well as your pet.

MEET Make an appointment to take your pet for a get-acquainted visit. Observe how the veterinarian and staff interact with you and your pet. Also note how your pet reacts to them and the facilities.

An attentive doctor will put you — and your pet — at ease. If you don’t understand something the vet has said always ask for clarification.

Finding a veterinarian who meets your needs and communicates effectively will help you feel more comfortable as you rely on him or her to monitor your pet’s health. You will build a relationship with your vet over the years as you bring your pet for regular preventive visits as well as any emergencies that may happen. It’s vital that you have a good rapport with your veterinarian. Effective communication is essential to any health-care relationship.

Choose a clinic that will allow you to see the same doctor each time so that he or she will become familiar with you and your pet.

VCA ANIMAL HOSPITALS Four locations in Tulsa, one in Owasso and one in Broken Arrow

7 • TULSA WORLD SUPPLEMENT

April 13, 2014

Consumer Guide To Local Businesses

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3129 3129S.S.Winston WinstonAve. Ave. Tulsa, Tulsa,OKOK74135 74135

VCAvetmedcenter.com VCAvetmedcenter.com

VCA VCAWOODLAND WOODLANDCENTRAL CENTRAL ANIMAL ANIMALHOSPITAL HOSPITAL

VCA VCAOWASSO OWASSOANIMAL ANIMAL MEDICAL MEDICALCENTER CENTER

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4720 4720E.E.51st 51stSt.St. Tulsa, OK 74135 Tulsa, OK 74135

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Learn and Have FunFun Learn and Have youtube.com/VCAanimalhospitals youtube.com/VCAanimalhospitals Celebrate and Showcase Celebrate and Showcase pinterest.com/VCAhospitals pinterest.com/VCAhospitals Stay in in thethe Know Stay Know twitter.com/VCApethealth twitter.com/VCApethealth

8811 8811N.N.Owasso OwassoExpy.

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* For new clients only.

Offer good only forfor general veterinary services.

Excludes emergency and specialized services.

UpUp to to 2 pets perper household.

Expires 12-31-14.

RefRef code: 700.500 * For new clients only.

Offer good only general veterinary services.

Excludes emergency and specialized services.

2 pets household.

Expires 12-31-14. code: 700.500

Retail HOW TO

April 13, 2014

TULSA WORLD SUPPLEMENT • 8

Consumer Guide To Local Businesses

choose a diamond Diamonds are a girl’s best friend Among the most intimidating purchases for most men, diamonds and engagement rings rank at the top of the list. Let’s face it: diamonds are a girl’s best friend, but most guys don’t share that perspective. However, there comes a time when you meet the love of your life, and you find yourself thinking about the ring. Where do you begin?

Researching what to look for in a diamond is crucial to ensure the best outcome. The first step is understanding the four C’s: Cut, Color, Clarity and Carat.

CUT Cut refers to the proportions of a diamond rather than the shape. Every diamond shape has guidelines to stay within, and buying a diamond that is too shallow or too deep will diminish its brilliance and devalue the stone. Not all stones offered in jewelry stores are properly cut. Make sure the diamond you are considering is within the proper recommendations.

COLOR Color refers to whether a diamond is white or has a tint of yellow or brown sometimes. The color scale is alphabetical from D to Z, and the color you choose will depend on your budget and the color of the metal you choose for the ring. The closer to D (colorless), the more expensive the diamond.

CLARITY Clarity refers to how “clean” your diamond is on the inside. As the crystal formed, tiny inclusions may have been trapped inside. Besides flawless stones, every diamond has its own unique “fingerprint” or inclusions. Inclusions are normal, and for the most part the goal is to make sure they do not affect

the brilliance of the stone or are not visible to the naked eye.

CARAT Carat is the unit of weight, and every carat consists of 100 points, like pennies to a dollar. Your budget will play a big role in the carat weight of the diamond you buy. It is all about balancing the four C’s and getting the most bang for your buck.

COST This is the fifth C and an important part of pricing and shopping for diamonds. It’s all about comparing apples to apples. In retail stores, diamonds can carry a markup of as much as two to three times the actual wholesale cost, so look around for the best possible price. Check the four C’s and keep in mind that the certificate of the diamond will affect the accuracy of the grade and the value of the stone. Make sure you are comparing apples to apples between the different grading labs: GIA, EGL, AGS and IGI. Some labs are very strict and some are not. Don’t make it a financial burden— you can always find a beautiful ring in your price range, especially if you buy it right. Beware of additional charges not disclosed upfront and warranties that are impossible to maintain.

STYLE SELECTION How do you choose the ring she will wear the rest of her life? Some men involve their lady in the selection of the setting, but if you are planning a surprise proposal, here are some tips for getting it right: Look on her Pinterest page — every girl has her favorite styles pinned there. No Pinterest? Ask her best friend or sister, if they are able to keep a secret. Keep your ears open for hints; girls are usually good about hinting if you are listening. None of the above? Present her with a classic simple solitaire, and give her the option to change the style after the proposal. The ring is very much a reflection of her personality so keep that in mind when choosing a design.

EXPERIENCE The help of a professional diamond expert is extremely valuable when you are venturing into uncharted territory. When working with a diamond expert, it is important you trust that he or she is guiding you toward what’s in your best interest, not their wallet. If their answers are not rational or satisfactory, it may be time to find a new jeweler. If they are not asking you the right questions to better guide you, they are definitely not interested in what you need but rather what they are selling.

Do your homework and protect your interest. Find a jeweler who is not only willing to help you find the perfect ring that she will cherish forever, but who will stand behind their product. It’s the ultimate win-win, and you don’t have to go bankrupt in the process.

ISRAEL DIAMOND Priced at Wholesale

9 • TULSA WORLD SUPPLEMENT

Consumer Guide To Local Businesses

April 13, 2014

Retail HOW TO

April 13, 2014

TULSA WORLD SUPPLEMENT • 10

Consumer Guide To Local Businesses

choose a mattress A good night’s sleep makes all the difference We spend approximately 33 percent of our lives asleep. Making the most of your sleep time is vital because it can affect your health, work, relationships and more. Often, purchasing a mattress is put off because many don’t understand the importance of treating themselves to a quality night of sleep.

“Mattress buying can be intimidating,” said Michael Yelich, owner of Mattress Firm. “It’s one of those purchases that we will put off as long as we can because we’re worried about making a mistake or we’re worried about spending too much.”

Don’t be intimidated by the prospect of purchasing a new mattress. Replacing an old, worn out mattress is the biggest step toward giving yourself the gift of a good’s night sleep.

COMFORT RULES Consider the type of bed that would be best for you. Technology for building beds is quite advanced, and a variety of types are available. Latex or foam are two options as well as the tried-and-true coil spring construction.

Go to a showroom and try out the various models, asking the sales staff to explain the benefits of each design.

“The most important thing to think about is the comfort of the mattress, the way it feels,” Yelich said. “Some people think they should buy a hard bed because they have a bad back. That is false. You can have a hard bed that is very low in support, and you can have a very soft bed that is very high in support.

The structure of the bed dictates the level of support not the

hardness or softness. So comfort is king.”

Don’t be afraid of a soft bed. The technology exists to provide a soft yet ultra-supportive sleep surface.

As we age, our shoulders and hips become increasingly sensitive to pressure. It is very important to choose a mattress that is soft enough to relieve that pressure and allow you to sleep comfortably in any position.

Once you narrow your search down to a few mattresses, let your body tell you which is best. Don’t over-think this purchase. Your comfort is still the most important factor when choosing a mattress.

SHOPPING STYLE Yelich recommends considering only two different mattresses at a time. After you test each one, decide between the two before you look at a third.

“Spend at least 10 minutes on each one to determine which is your favorite,” said Yelich.

There is an adjustment period with all new mattresses. Be prepared to feel soreness and stiffness when you first sleep on your new mattress. Just like a new pair of shoes will hurt your feet the first time, a new mattress will hurt your back. The more supportive the new mattress is, the more time required to break it in and get adjusted to it.

TIMELY ADVICE Buying a new mattress can be a major investment but a necessary one. According to experts, a mattress should be replaced every eight years.

“Your mattress is not a family heirloom,” said Yelich. In fact, during the eight years you have your mattress it practically doubles in weight due to sweat, dead skin and millions of dust mites. This is not just a problem for those with asthma as it has been shown that one out of every three people are allergic to dust mites.

To find out how old your mattress is check the bed’s tag.

“

The most important thing to think about is the comfort of the mattress, the way it feels.

— Michael Yelich, owner of Mattress Firm

MATTRESS FIRM

Michael Yelich owns the Tulsa location

”

11 • TULSA WORLD SUPPLEMENT

April 13, 2014

Consumer Guide To Local Businesses

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VISIT OUR NEWEST STORE 91st STREET & YALE (Between Whole Foods & CVS) 918-770-9209 SHOWROOM SUPERSTORE WOODLAND HILLS 71st STREET 9404 E 71st Street (Across from Applebee's next to Sonic)

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April 13, 2014

Consumer Guide To Local Businesses

TULSA WORLD SUPPLEMENT • 12