tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6697396000823909972024-03-04T23:21:03.324-06:00Tulsa Area CommandServing Tulsa, Broken Arrow, Sapulpa, Sand Spring and Surrounding CommunitiesThe Salvation Armyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12766471214182685756noreply@blogger.comBlogger442125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-669739600082390997.post-36993482052306646262019-01-28T10:05:00.003-06:002019-01-28T10:08:48.958-06:00<span style="font-size: x-large;">Hi! Thank you for coming to our Blogspot!</span><span class="fullpost" style="font-size: x-large;">
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Please join us at our new website, <a href="http://www.salarmytulsa.org/">www.SalArmyTulsa.org</a>.</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01013498158220228854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-669739600082390997.post-62469913770651572092014-04-07T13:13:00.002-05:002014-04-07T13:14:03.996-05:00A new homeIt has been more than four years since this blog was started. Since then we have had numerous contributors and thousands of readers! You may have noticed a decrease in posts lately, we have been gearing up for a new and improved website that will now host our blog directly!<br />
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All of the posts on this site will remain, we think the stories told here are a great history of how we are Doing the Most Good in Tulsa! We hope you will join us at our new home: <a href="http://www.salarmytulsa.org/" target="_blank">www.salarmytulsa.org </a>- just click on "News & Updates" to see our latest blogs.<br />
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Signing off!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjghXb7LSRMm3NGBsFPUUvonHjq4tNOC4Ow3wNHT_wMDqDExYb9y91NE74HvrI_JmR-3gxZ1sf6rp5p8Si8CeFlkAkEm8FO2uS97SB0q0IOH4qlD9EoiBZ5tBIyO8WBCZ2ChvCIR-ON22kg/s1600/372061_566303759_679137132_q.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjghXb7LSRMm3NGBsFPUUvonHjq4tNOC4Ow3wNHT_wMDqDExYb9y91NE74HvrI_JmR-3gxZ1sf6rp5p8Si8CeFlkAkEm8FO2uS97SB0q0IOH4qlD9EoiBZ5tBIyO8WBCZ2ChvCIR-ON22kg/s1600/372061_566303759_679137132_q.jpg" /></a>~Lindsay<br />
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</span>The Salvation Armyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12766471214182685756noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-669739600082390997.post-9627303328570795252014-02-28T08:55:00.000-06:002014-02-28T08:55:02.767-06:00Youth of the Year Banquet Offers a Glimpse of our Good FutureWith the headlines each day screaming of juveniles in trouble, declining graduation rates (depending on which study you read) and general malaise about the next generation of leaders, it might be easy to get depressed and worry about the future of our nation. That is unless you took the opportunity to attend the recent Tulsa Boys & Girls Club Youth of the Year Banquet. It could be also called The Banquet of Hope.<br />
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At the banquet last week six youth who are members of the Salvation Army Tulsa Boys & Girls Clubs were honored for their exemplary accomplishments as members of their respective clubs. Four of the six competed for the Youth of the Year title. <strong>All are winners.</strong> <br />
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Established in 1947 nationally and in Tulsa in 1949, Youth of the Year is the Boys & Girls Club’s premier recognition program for Club members, promoting service to Club, community and family, academic success, strong moral character, life goals, poise and public speaking ability.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9SewKT0K7_stYJn_0CoUBsHizHuITKUYuoyuwe3X9VRvtsliCquoajjwsScstYlQuqTxGW_TaDKtODDsomxbuKjU6XAKT7C7kYlKGAcN2XeDLxY_z73e1Z7QqwG1r4i41A8_Hnwb_5hR2/s1600/Neariah12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9SewKT0K7_stYJn_0CoUBsHizHuITKUYuoyuwe3X9VRvtsliCquoajjwsScstYlQuqTxGW_TaDKtODDsomxbuKjU6XAKT7C7kYlKGAcN2XeDLxY_z73e1Z7QqwG1r4i41A8_Hnwb_5hR2/s1600/Neariah12.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Neariah Persinger</td></tr>
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Sixteen-year-old <strong>Neariah Persinger</strong> of Broken Arrow was named 2014 Youth of the Year. The New Covenant High School senior is an honors student, holds six Oklahoma state swimming records and racked up an impressive 1,000-plus volunteer hours last year. She also created a 24-hour marathon swimming event that in two years raised over $1,200 for the Wounded Soldier Project. Her goal is to be an Olympic swimmer.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYblC5EynuVer1_yjceoRlAA_zS8ot5BNG_1AGHkNhb_JyPT2q-RLblKzICmeGJG5pAvQJabtM_gKhjkUspFKRv3qOweNEuOGXroe2iVmbsnifBHg5x5Tm5-vbkTjK9Ekr1BLAg4dOgqtW/s1600/Mianasmall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYblC5EynuVer1_yjceoRlAA_zS8ot5BNG_1AGHkNhb_JyPT2q-RLblKzICmeGJG5pAvQJabtM_gKhjkUspFKRv3qOweNEuOGXroe2iVmbsnifBHg5x5Tm5-vbkTjK9Ekr1BLAg4dOgqtW/s1600/Mianasmall.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Miana McHenry</td></tr>
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First runner-up was West Mabee nominee <strong>Miana McHenry</strong>, who has been a member since she was nine years old. At 17, Miana is a straight-A senior at Booker T. Washington High School, sings in the all-girl choir and is a member of the Student Council. She serves as the president of the West Mabee Keystone club and volunteers at all West Mabee sporting events and fundraisers. Her volunteer hours for
the past year totaled 800.<o:p></o:p><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7feMbVFgjViGnJcIFqHz6Cbupce_4wd4sMbPXs9-ICF5lvLypnwe2y9p0bMn3hEhq0-MMp6dMUSpTZlFylUwJv9kZqB5-RroMvWaFRkdPAWPqwjOORLILgz2Zwy0cu_XdBtRJoM6-a0MW/s1600/Devin23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7feMbVFgjViGnJcIFqHz6Cbupce_4wd4sMbPXs9-ICF5lvLypnwe2y9p0bMn3hEhq0-MMp6dMUSpTZlFylUwJv9kZqB5-RroMvWaFRkdPAWPqwjOORLILgz2Zwy0cu_XdBtRJoM6-a0MW/s1600/Devin23.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Devin Duckett</td></tr>
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Representing the “Mabee babies” was 17-year-old senior <strong>Devin Duckett</strong>, as second runner-up. Devin, a 12-year member of the Club, is a senior at Tulsa MET and volunteers at the Club with sports programs and Summer Day Camp. He also plays AAU basketball and wrestles for his school. He plans to attend Oral Roberts University or Oklahoma State University after graduation.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8mlgrgZ3rgsZleK75L3Jmk_Zyu9PkxKc8kl0CwTQKy7Y7AMlPiFBAcRJb3q1IAO9mMvqyi1F3WTlyRDSzKk3sCujmRMA4EwigCLDlHq8RJ8IdOsAYpt3Xppr8VT8hekbXXEy8wDdlFiH3/s1600/j%2527daysmaller.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8mlgrgZ3rgsZleK75L3Jmk_Zyu9PkxKc8kl0CwTQKy7Y7AMlPiFBAcRJb3q1IAO9mMvqyi1F3WTlyRDSzKk3sCujmRMA4EwigCLDlHq8RJ8IdOsAYpt3Xppr8VT8hekbXXEy8wDdlFiH3/s1600/j%2527daysmaller.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">J'Day McIntosh</td></tr>
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Third runner-up was Mabee Red Shield nominee <strong>J'Day McIntosh</strong>. Just 15, and a sophomore at Will Rogers High School, J’Day has been a member of the Mabee Red Shield Boys & Girls Club for eight years. She volunteers at football and basketball games and is a member of the Keystone Club. McIntosh plans on attending Oklahoma State University after graduation and wants to obtain a Master’s degree in Sports Therapy. <br />
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The honorees were awarded academic scholarships in the amounts of $4,000, $3,000, $2,000 and $1,000 respectively.<br />
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Also honored at the banquet were 12-year-old <strong>Hannah Farias</strong> of Sand Springs and 13-year-old <strong>Brittany Wilson</strong> of Sapulpa. Though too young yet to compete in the Youth of the Year, Hannah attends Clyde Boyd Middle School and is involved in band, horseback riding and softball and Brittany attends Sapulpa Middle School and is a member of Torch Club, Keystone Club and involved in many of the Club’s sporting programs.<br />
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Consistent throughout the competition, these youth used the words “family,” “second home,” and “a safe place to be” to describe their Club. That doesn’t just happen. It comes about through dedicated staff and volunteers. <br />
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Past B&G Club Advisory Council Chairman <strong>Danny Roe</strong> was awarded the <strong>Clay Satcher
Award,</strong> named for Retired Major Clay Satcher, founder of the Tulsa
clubs. This award honors a member of the community who has shown commitment and support
for The Salvation Army Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Tulsa. Maj. Satcher was
the keynote speaker at the event and personally presented Roe his namesake
award.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Major Clay Satcher, Danny Roe, David Litterell (Exec. Dir. Tulsa Boys & Girls Clubs)</span></div>
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Many of us attend countless events, banquets, anniversary dinners and other such celebrations that honor the lifetime or longtime achievements of professionals in our community. <br />
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What made this one different, and special, is we were tipping our hats to our future. And, if these youth are any indication at all, it’s a good one. <br />
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Thanks to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Tulsa. <br />
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-DJ<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ1Fv7Zu7QPC283nvxw8fMV8JSYXNFcRnd2hh-HsnGtqAgnto6wuvGAEpG-eZBOm-0JFlavfamoa841N2MOpoIBIIg0L7OL4psUn7-VGJTzwazeGTdvLBpmxpYb9Skniz8nbH5MoBCsYSY/s1600/DJ2aa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ1Fv7Zu7QPC283nvxw8fMV8JSYXNFcRnd2hh-HsnGtqAgnto6wuvGAEpG-eZBOm-0JFlavfamoa841N2MOpoIBIIg0L7OL4psUn7-VGJTzwazeGTdvLBpmxpYb9Skniz8nbH5MoBCsYSY/s1600/DJ2aa.jpg" /></a><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01013498158220228854noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-669739600082390997.post-41206547721975147162014-02-14T11:15:00.000-06:002014-02-19T19:39:42.182-06:00T.D. Williamson + Launch Pad = a winning combination!<span class="fullpost">
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This week, Major Taylor, volunteer coordinator Jenny, and case workers Kelly and Tara and myself were honored to attend a lovely volunteer thank you luncheon for the employees of T.D. Williamson. The luncheon was held at The Silo in west Tulsa.<br>
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Major Taylor and Jenny shared the impact that T.D. Williamson had on different volunteer areas this past holiday season. TDW employees adopted over 140 Angel Tree angels, volunteered at distribution in Sapulpa and Tulsa, AND were trailblazers for our newest sponsorship opportunity, Launchpad.<br>
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Major Taylor presented a certificate of recognition to Annie Tomecheck, Supervisor, Global Community Investment, for the Launch Pad program. <br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ_CERWiEkFzMYChuONp3BeRo9jNESoa-3prpJkTXx6ljczhixLUPrBeX9KSPAiZyT1ULm8j3-nvyMvi0w42gmeO-ewH8CDuDRosdtCbVC7dH7jQPvrh4LW3XNvD5VIhds48PFtB6JJ1hF/s1600/TDW+and+Major.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ_CERWiEkFzMYChuONp3BeRo9jNESoa-3prpJkTXx6ljczhixLUPrBeX9KSPAiZyT1ULm8j3-nvyMvi0w42gmeO-ewH8CDuDRosdtCbVC7dH7jQPvrh4LW3XNvD5VIhds48PFtB6JJ1hF/s1600/TDW+and+Major.jpg" height="240" width="320"></a></div>
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In particular, we want to thank TDW for being the lead sponsor for the Launch Pad program and for being such generous patrons for a family in need.<br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6MHLXLqSSOsFgbgpS9MhJD6BAmyQCiS-EQcBZt6RKh5tq0BNC6n9-t4s_JVBLIdRLINgJCKk2qzAtl1OQs3DMwYFFLNRFYh1lJTeb0Ml-R1wd7iuEwgFVzfrpQSgLC8SBqaovh9N22af5/s1600/launch+pad+rocket.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6MHLXLqSSOsFgbgpS9MhJD6BAmyQCiS-EQcBZt6RKh5tq0BNC6n9-t4s_JVBLIdRLINgJCKk2qzAtl1OQs3DMwYFFLNRFYh1lJTeb0Ml-R1wd7iuEwgFVzfrpQSgLC8SBqaovh9N22af5/s1600/launch+pad+rocket.png"></a></div>
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Launch Pad is a NEW volunteer/sponsorship opportunity designed to bless a homeless family with minor children who live at the Center of Hope and are participating in the Supportive Housing Program (SHP). SHP consists of 16 1-3 bedroom apartments that clients can live in for up to 24 months, with sliding scale rent, while they pursue education, employment and stability for their family. Launch Pad sponsors redecorate and replace basic household goods- including furniture and beds. When clients complete their program and move out to permanent housing, they can take the furniture and goods, ready to set up house in their new place.<br>
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TDW's volunteer crew did a fabulous job, from maximizing space to personalizing and thinking of creature comforts. We are really impressed with the end product. Check out these pics of the TDW apartment's "After"-- amazing!<br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTgEk0pAPjd3NsfnBp9CoL76tAvf2DQAyiLbFnwiV066siWT89Tw_UBfPS99QXTvxn1MysPLI-smEB2ErPEPQdjn71lrVv4knvFTQ-NHBF5VAWv6JykeZM-gx8FT8yYTDdDwj4DsCJtJm6/s1600/thumbpring+close+up.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTgEk0pAPjd3NsfnBp9CoL76tAvf2DQAyiLbFnwiV066siWT89Tw_UBfPS99QXTvxn1MysPLI-smEB2ErPEPQdjn71lrVv4knvFTQ-NHBF5VAWv6JykeZM-gx8FT8yYTDdDwj4DsCJtJm6/s1600/thumbpring+close+up.jpg" height="240" width="320"></a></div>
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If you or your organization would like more information on sponsoring a Launch Pad apartment, please call Jenny McElyea, our volunteer coordinator, at <a href="tel:918-587-7801" x-apple-data-detectors="true" x-apple-data-detectors-type="telephone" x-apple-data-detectors-result="1">918-587-7801</a>. It's an amazing opportuniy to positiviely impact a homeless family on a very basic level.<br>
-Vicki <br>
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<br>Vicki Thornehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15232487594984432057noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-669739600082390997.post-27929627551477180142014-01-13T10:00:00.000-06:002014-01-13T16:29:52.296-06:00Volunteers: Making the Impossible, Possible!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; height: 170px; text-align: right; width: 212px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDch5UIh6rr9im1gV9EecfEfBAVZFP4QPoHDv6yNsnDNe_4bEHPCvm-Rg2p3IEdLmvOCp2AHjbCcXhbIkYR45NEIHIN9L7Ii-1T0Nkk3Xotq1Tg1OLIeJPTAuevYlAJ58uBpeX8lX6IGmj/s1600/food+basket+volunteers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDch5UIh6rr9im1gV9EecfEfBAVZFP4QPoHDv6yNsnDNe_4bEHPCvm-Rg2p3IEdLmvOCp2AHjbCcXhbIkYR45NEIHIN9L7Ii-1T0Nkk3Xotq1Tg1OLIeJPTAuevYlAJ58uBpeX8lX6IGmj/s1600/food+basket+volunteers.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Food Packing Day</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="fullpost">
<b>Impossible.</b> That is what Christmas at The Salvation Army would be without volunteers. </span><br />
<br />
<span class="fullpost">This Christmas more than 1,800 volunteers provided 7,635 hours of service. That many volunteers is the size of a small army. Which is kind of perfect!</span><br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKXvhWPx5Eog3Qn_T9ijq2q-jrV5zjOti3k1e92O1UK3sLBVslKa4GpKg23RzEIVO4IMZzuQa0-8z0PFGky9FuA6iKz9ISF98FFgkC5nyJ6PeEfclzw6k3zTzqoKXGNbmBnugTPL4irs16/s1600/volunteer+in+teddy+bears+%2528Davey+from+Pepsi%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKXvhWPx5Eog3Qn_T9ijq2q-jrV5zjOti3k1e92O1UK3sLBVslKa4GpKg23RzEIVO4IMZzuQa0-8z0PFGky9FuA6iKz9ISF98FFgkC5nyJ6PeEfclzw6k3zTzqoKXGNbmBnugTPL4irs16/s1600/volunteer+in+teddy+bears+%2528Davey+from+Pepsi%2529.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Volunteer Davey from Pepsi was up<br />
to his ears in stuff animals!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="fullpost">As the volunteer coordinator, I was overwhelmed by the sheer number of people who were willing to give of their time just so others could have a Merry Christmas. As I was thanking our volunteers it blew my mind when they started thanking me! </span><br />
<span class="fullpost"></span><br />
<span class="fullpost">The people who stood on their feet all day in a freezing warehouse were thanking me for this experience? Wow. I thought the cold or exhaustion had finally started getting to them. Then I realized something that everyone at The Salvation Army already knew. We truly have the most amazing volunteers in the world.</span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCCgbGLodFQ-Lbdofq-pJagEdxQljArXxwWnI1K0EYmgKsRV3gaOlQwRGw5D8aDbH_HV1wA0V7AzEGCm3J3-RfIFFPhhLjYOP8iWqPNPAc5Zi7z3uYScoZtvISbHPhcr_rN_KGPhtXPuLJ/s1600/volunteers+servingChristmas+lunch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCCgbGLodFQ-Lbdofq-pJagEdxQljArXxwWnI1K0EYmgKsRV3gaOlQwRGw5D8aDbH_HV1wA0V7AzEGCm3J3-RfIFFPhhLjYOP8iWqPNPAc5Zi7z3uYScoZtvISbHPhcr_rN_KGPhtXPuLJ/s1600/volunteers+servingChristmas+lunch.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Serving a holiday meal.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="fullpost"></span><br />
<span class="fullpost">If you gave any of your time to us this holiday season or even this year, thank you. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. We couldn’t do it without you!</span><br />
<span class="fullpost"></span><br />
Thanks, so much,<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRgijf-W2_e1ewqmVF30RCmi-7OD4zeJNtclDui2UAMcZck-xDniisyM_kTibe1HfNCNkZ_yPUVsvAHPxrvtVywoN1IoZdMdieaYdgNs6hr3VegexWXnyzuyWcd_38G4HBf39fZuhKmH9a/s1600/Jenny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRgijf-W2_e1ewqmVF30RCmi-7OD4zeJNtclDui2UAMcZck-xDniisyM_kTibe1HfNCNkZ_yPUVsvAHPxrvtVywoN1IoZdMdieaYdgNs6hr3VegexWXnyzuyWcd_38G4HBf39fZuhKmH9a/s1600/Jenny.jpg" /></a> - Jenny<br />
<br />
<u><b></b></u><br />
<u><b></b></u><br />
<u><b></b></u><br />
<u><b>Activity Volunteers Hours</b></u><br />
<u><b><br /></b></u>Bell Ringing * 304 1520<br />
Angel Tree 240 960<br />
Christmas Eve Meal 35 70<br />
Gift Sorting 150 600<br />
Checking Bags 30 150<br />
Distribution 750 3000<br />
Food Sorting* 75 375<br />
Thanksgiving 46 92<br />
Food Packing 217 868<br />
<br />
<b>Total Volunteers/Hrs 1847 7635</b>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01013498158220228854noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-669739600082390997.post-73295882801698443982013-12-19T18:31:00.001-06:002013-12-19T18:31:11.139-06:00Red Kettles, Tradition and Why It's Important<span class="fullpost">
“Hurry up, Mom. It’s cold!” complained my son as we stood outside a store, the first winter snow slapping us in the face. I was digging in my purse for a dollar to put in the Salvation Army red kettle. “Let’s just skip it,” he said. “What difference can just one dollar make?”</span><br />
<br />
<span class="fullpost">Just then I was able to put my gloved hand on the dollar bill I just knew was in there. I stuffed it in the kettle and we rushed on. But his comment, “What difference can just one dollar make?” weighed heavy on my mind. I wanted him to understand that it DOES make a difference; that our tradition of never passing a kettle without putting in a dollar was important. </span><br />
<span class="fullpost"></span><br />
<span class="fullpost">So we volunteered one night to join other Salvation Army employees who volunteer to count kettle money. (No small feat for a germaphobe like me; money is riddled with grime and germs!)</span><br />
<span class="fullpost"></span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJqDhB4PD7Sin6TIiR-20UUwWYxmXxc6TqZOfJvg2CTczHpQNO2qHV2loopDHrlwgIRAvT7OUwCclwIbpGg5Ko3wlscE_HPB9E0E4YyzIOcDZKJTEN9Gl_mQJSMrA6SmMh8dydCy-8gTFM/s1600/Eli+Spillman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJqDhB4PD7Sin6TIiR-20UUwWYxmXxc6TqZOfJvg2CTczHpQNO2qHV2loopDHrlwgIRAvT7OUwCclwIbpGg5Ko3wlscE_HPB9E0E4YyzIOcDZKJTEN9Gl_mQJSMrA6SmMh8dydCy-8gTFM/s1600/Eli+Spillman.jpg" height="200" width="141" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bell Ringer Eli Spillman</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="fullpost">We all met in a secluded, private room and proceeded to empty the kettles that had been out with bell ringers that day. The paper money was all wadded or folded up as it must be to slip through the little slot on the kettles. Our job was to unfold each and every bill and smooth it out so it would go through a bill counting machine. </span><br />
<br />
<span class="fullpost">I was worried my 13-year-old would find it tedious and boring but he attacked the job in earnest, carefully smoothing the wrinkles from each bill, doing a little “happy dance” when the bill turned out to be a $10, $20 or $50 and dancing all the way around the room when he found a $100 bill. He was a good worker and as we left I was proud to accept compliments from the other adults about him and his great attitude. </span><br />
<span class="fullpost"></span><br />
<span class="fullpost">But my “aha” moment came on the way home. We rode silently in the car; me focusing on the icy roads and him listen to “his” music through his headphones. Midway there, he took off the headphones, turned to me and said, “Mom, thanks for letting me do this tonight. Now I get why you put a dollar in every red kettle we pass.” With that he put his headphones back on and turned his focus to the screen of his phone.</span><br />
<span class="fullpost"></span><br />
<span class="fullpost">I pulled into a QuikTrip and before getting out in the frosty weather to pump gas, I had to ask him what he “got” from that night.</span><br />
<span class="fullpost"></span><br />
<span class="fullpost">He gave me that look that only a teenager can when they think you’re asking a question that they believe has an obvious answer and said:</span><br />
<span class="fullpost"></span><br />
<span class="fullpost">“I realized tonight that it isn’t that the money WE put in that makes a difference, but it’s the money we ALL put in that does. If everyone did what we do and never passed a red kettle without putting SOMETHING in, just think of all the good things the Salvation Army could do with all that money. It’s pretty awesome, don’t you think?”</span><br />
<span class="fullpost"></span><br />
<span class="fullpost">Yes, son, it <strong><em>is</em></strong> awesome. And so are you for “getting it”. I wish more did.</span><br />
<span class="fullpost"></span><br />
<span class="fullpost">Friday, Dec. 20, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., the Tulsa Police and Tulsa Fire Department are having a bell ringing competition at Woodland Hills Mall. Go help them out!</span><br />
<span class="fullpost"></span><br />
<span class="fullpost">Friday, Dec. 20 and Saturday, Dec. 21, money dropped in Salvation Army kettles will be matched dollar for dollar. </span><br />
<span class="fullpost"></span><br />
<span class="fullpost">I invite you to join my son and I in our tradition of always putting something into every red kettle we pass.<strong><em> It makes a difference.</em></strong></span><br />
<strong><em></em></strong><br />
-DJ<br />
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<span class="fullpost"></span><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01013498158220228854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-669739600082390997.post-36668174403247463392013-12-10T11:20:00.003-06:002013-12-12T08:57:42.868-06:00Toys Drives Galore!<br />
As Christmas speeds towards us and the Angel Tree deadline approaches (this Friday, the 13th!), I want to highlight other ways to contribute to those needy children on the Angel Tree. If you can't afford to fulfill an Angel's whole wish list, consider purchasing 1 or 2 toys and drop them off (new & unwrapped) at a local toy drive! This year, we have 11 local toy drives, supporting the "Forgotten Angels" of the Angel Tree. With so many options, there's one close to you!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuxCykCZD9yvPrMSV-mlJMp3AeXolqm0M1GZ-txF3bsL2acxGp6jdWtvICFOXqPOPKwGqaqWxaW8x70rw3ctvEWgldu1OA9rLrooR1vTgYh2-dK3wHNkZEAu4pnw-V8leHlvLkppekh2-f/s1600/bok.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuxCykCZD9yvPrMSV-mlJMp3AeXolqm0M1GZ-txF3bsL2acxGp6jdWtvICFOXqPOPKwGqaqWxaW8x70rw3ctvEWgldu1OA9rLrooR1vTgYh2-dK3wHNkZEAu4pnw-V8leHlvLkppekh2-f/s1600/bok.bmp" /></a>Our annual partner, <b>Bank of Oklahoma</b>, is accepting toys at each of their local Tulsa area branch locations.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXcVE4IjeSAMAqN1an18wpDF2aYVc6YCzQoqStb-tSafsRt4HCxf42QqrH2EZ4Xwm6f_nen0jD_WJa4r0f1Wo_9WZEUo_B5vSMX-mbBzcVDVHwtYxHVB1Cl0-1z0Bt5c_wKEG_V9IAPlIl/s1600/ORU.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXcVE4IjeSAMAqN1an18wpDF2aYVc6YCzQoqStb-tSafsRt4HCxf42QqrH2EZ4Xwm6f_nen0jD_WJa4r0f1Wo_9WZEUo_B5vSMX-mbBzcVDVHwtYxHVB1Cl0-1z0Bt5c_wKEG_V9IAPlIl/s1600/ORU.jpg" /></a>Another traditional partner is <b>Oral Roberts University (ORU);</b> we love having this generous college community on board. Word on the street is that the college students love taking a 'trip to their childhood' when they go to buy Legos, Playdough and baby dolls!<br />
<br />
This year, we are honored to have a number of local businesses join us for another year! Participating businesses include: <br />
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<i> Merritt's Bakery</i> (all 3 Tulsa locations)</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Tweet 4 Toys</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>The Alliday Show </i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Apsco, Inc.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Firstar Bank</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Andolini's Pizz</i>a (both locations, Tulsa and Owasso)</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Dilly Deli</i> (downtown Tulsa)</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
and we want to welcome <i>Lakewood Park </i>apartment homes on board as well!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAYN0KPWj_DcL1LqIbnHruE6FxHfKIy8cZ2Fw5MhLKKgqPARFNzbQuR5sw_5JoPyS2l4vCwJmyRLYeJa6r7Hk1ZCw2GeDwtxyoIYAX_l0fzrGutcmwDMtNISlrbLoWNeHFGdWcPlJveb0-/s1600/dillydeli.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="173" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAYN0KPWj_DcL1LqIbnHruE6FxHfKIy8cZ2Fw5MhLKKgqPARFNzbQuR5sw_5JoPyS2l4vCwJmyRLYeJa6r7Hk1ZCw2GeDwtxyoIYAX_l0fzrGutcmwDMtNISlrbLoWNeHFGdWcPlJveb0-/s200/dillydeli.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
Both <b>Andolini's Pizza </b>and <b>Dilly Del</b>i will make it worth your while to come in, offering a generous free pizza or 20% off (respectively) for the donation of a new toy! Sounds like a lunch date to me!<br />
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Andolini's in particular is collecting for older children (9-12), who are often considered 'more difficult' to buy for...good options for older kids include Legos, magic sets, craft and art sets, sports balls, journals, etc.!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQv5omY91BHNrI9BE0D2GiCdlvyWu29D-5NiJKXfCCkhLNrnWnMQsgCIJ5rqfbLYMMf0OKLDUrtz4HttVilk9BwKHdlbp8iAbG0QFxh255KGY0HJd0KmyNd8o7vPT4sWGnvnj7yMKVH9fl/s1600/Oilers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQv5omY91BHNrI9BE0D2GiCdlvyWu29D-5NiJKXfCCkhLNrnWnMQsgCIJ5rqfbLYMMf0OKLDUrtz4HttVilk9BwKHdlbp8iAbG0QFxh255KGY0HJd0KmyNd8o7vPT4sWGnvnj7yMKVH9fl/s1600/Oilers.jpg" /></a>Lastly, we are excited to renew our relationship with our old friends the<b> Tulsa Oilers</b>, as they host their annual Teddy Bear Toss at the December 21st game! Bring a teddy bear to the game to toss on the ice at half time; bears will be delivered to St. Francis Children's Hospital and to the Salvation Army's Joy Center! And say hi to our volunteer bellringers as you go into the game!<br />
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Help make these community toy drives a success; donate!<br />
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~Vicki (aka Toy Drive Queen) <br />
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</span>Vicki Thornehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15232487594984432057noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-669739600082390997.post-54225054983092432402013-12-09T16:58:00.002-06:002013-12-09T16:58:55.800-06:00Give Santa A Helping Hand<span class="fullpost">
For far too many area children – and Seniors – Christmas morning isn’t about squeals of laughter and torn paper and flying ribbon. It’s another day of wondering what the next meal will be or if there will even be one; of questioning why Santa visits other people’s homes but not theirs. </span><br />
<span class="fullpost"><br />But through the generosity of Tulsa metro area residents and The Salvation Army Angel Tree program this scenario doesn’t have to happen.<strong> <em>But we need your help.</em></strong><br />
<strong> </strong><br />
<strong></strong>The branches of the Salvation Army Angel trees in our area this year were heavy with more than 9,000 angels for adoption. Each paper angel represents an underprivileged child (angel) or senior and has a short list of gifts he or she hopes <em>or needs</em> to receive this Christmas. <br />
<br />As of today, Monday, Dec. 9, nearly 8,200 of these precious angels have been plucked from the trees and gifts are being purchased, giving Santa a much needed hand. <br />
<br />Although that is a wonderful thing, that number means there are still just over 800 angels that still need “adopted” or they will face a bleak and empty Christmas. <br />
<br /><strong>800.</strong><br />
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<br />And time is running short.<br />
<br />Angel tree gifts have to be returned to The Salvation Army by <strong>Friday, Dec. 13</strong>. Why so soon? For The Salvation Army, “Christmas Eve” is Dec. 18 because distribution of these 9,000+ angel gifts (and the accompanying food baskets) begins on Thursday, Dec. 19. The Joy Center volunteers need time to double-check the gift bags (yes, we DO check the list and check it twice, just like the song says) to be sure gifts are appropriate and that the gifts are matched to the tagged angel. <br />
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We know the weather has been a challenge but our countdown has begun. We need the angels adopted and then we need their gifts returned to us.<br />
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Angels may be adopted from the Woodland Hills and Promenade Malls, the Broken Arrow Boys and Girls Club (1400 West Washington), Walmart SuperCenter at 121st and Elm in Broken Arrow, the Sapulpa Walmart and Sand Springs Walmart. Gifts should be returned to their adoption location.<br />
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Can you help? Will you? Even Santa needs a helping hand sometimes.<br />
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--DJ <br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01013498158220228854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-669739600082390997.post-69505184504504003852013-12-06T06:00:00.000-06:002013-12-13T11:22:30.498-06:00Kettle Matching Saturdays: $1 = $2!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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When you step outside, it hits you right in the face: it's cold.<br />
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Despite the frigid temperatures, our bellringers are outside, standing on their feet for eleven hours, working hard to help The Salvation Army bring Christmas to 4,200 families in the Tulsa area.<br />
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When you pass one of these bellringers, say "hi" and throw in whatever change you may have with you. It's even more important to do this on every Saturday through Christmas. Why? Because three generous Tulsa companies are MATCHING every dollar that gets donated. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg6JSZYx-8u6YoB0aAcmVTSv1ZRjiVWJ7C54SVINDOmouKbf9ye8xT-qkOv3NkY-aqqbUNQa_ggvvwYkhmV2jiI1D9X6HgG8hwxoxQEx6Dhbt_tHU8kVEc49ht9q9TNlPSirvU77Td7A2D/s1600/AAON+MATCH.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg6JSZYx-8u6YoB0aAcmVTSv1ZRjiVWJ7C54SVINDOmouKbf9ye8xT-qkOv3NkY-aqqbUNQa_ggvvwYkhmV2jiI1D9X6HgG8hwxoxQEx6Dhbt_tHU8kVEc49ht9q9TNlPSirvU77Td7A2D/s200/AAON+MATCH.jpg" height="154" width="200" /></a></div>
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On Saturday, December 7th, <strong>Aaon</strong> is matching every kettle donation up to $5,000. This means if you put $1 in a red kettle, it will turn into $2. This is the second year Aaon has pledged to be a Matching Kettle Sponsor and we appeciate their generosity.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-OjbxaXFkcxXy6TQlHQxNJs97dmSAMOpxb0ENrgsDGMRW8EXttj04Oj6f7MJ44m_FeF1fhZudgv8f6FNDfyhDj0jp9Xsj0C9UJ8Z7XmSX_J1-MpfcjM3uo14_txlDOEJqaQkLztAjcU6B/s1600/AAON+LOGO.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-OjbxaXFkcxXy6TQlHQxNJs97dmSAMOpxb0ENrgsDGMRW8EXttj04Oj6f7MJ44m_FeF1fhZudgv8f6FNDfyhDj0jp9Xsj0C9UJ8Z7XmSX_J1-MpfcjM3uo14_txlDOEJqaQkLztAjcU6B/s1600/AAON+LOGO.png" /></a></div>
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<strong>Tulsa Gold & Silver</strong> is a trailblazer in our Matching Kettle campaign. 2013 marks the third year the company has pledged to double kettle donations. On December 14th, Tulsa Gold & Silver will match up to $10,000. The following Saturday, December 21st, the company will double donations up to $15,000.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwFmXGQNyff6w48PNEQxT17SmKqxQLQSKYNcT1xq53JhqtE-n2JmPh5Xy3dEZ3JRbkVXg47r3-AHNZTiGPDRnPpVZ6QMiGY102jNhox5XKsfRtpZ8uzJfzFg2iZtnhVCKS9rJIqP0sCjaQ/s1600/Tulsa+Gold+logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwFmXGQNyff6w48PNEQxT17SmKqxQLQSKYNcT1xq53JhqtE-n2JmPh5Xy3dEZ3JRbkVXg47r3-AHNZTiGPDRnPpVZ6QMiGY102jNhox5XKsfRtpZ8uzJfzFg2iZtnhVCKS9rJIqP0sCjaQ/s200/Tulsa+Gold+logo.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a>Rachel Davis, whose husband owns Tulsa Gold & Silver, knows the Salvation Army well. Her parents are former officers in the Army! Their act of kindness has been huge in helping us reach our kettle goal the past two years. <br />
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We also want to say a special thank you to <strong>Lawn America</strong> for being a Kettle Match sponsor on November 30th. The company pledged to double donations up to $5,000 and we were able to meet that goal! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA6PmQ8cSGfRXtN3p2WaM4bYwCMNQj1sAnf8kiiLaj2OYeS_1WxK-oNxgv1h65MzsgeE8nHoDDFzgupH6wC4H-IjTHHOQM68MGYcVvakyVRugXH77a9DAsYSYQPX-PO_EMNNnTVAlE3wjA/s1600/lawn+america2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA6PmQ8cSGfRXtN3p2WaM4bYwCMNQj1sAnf8kiiLaj2OYeS_1WxK-oNxgv1h65MzsgeE8nHoDDFzgupH6wC4H-IjTHHOQM68MGYcVvakyVRugXH77a9DAsYSYQPX-PO_EMNNnTVAlE3wjA/s1600/lawn+america2.jpg" unselectable="on" /></a></div>
Spread the word! If you see a red kettle, donate what you can. We have less time to ring bells this year because Thanksgiving fell late in November. Thank you for helping us DO THE MOST GOOD in our community. <br />
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-Carrie<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01013498158220228854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-669739600082390997.post-62032822333379199582013-11-26T18:00:00.000-06:002013-11-27T12:39:42.522-06:00Hunger and the Holidays<span class="fullpost">
</span><span class="fullpost"><span style="font-family: "Gill Sans MT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Although we
haven’t yet celebrated Thanksgiving, we are already being surrounded by the
sights and sounds of Christmas. Music, advertising, decorations, gift guides;
even the Salvation Army has begun its preparation for Christmas. From Angel
Tree registration to Bell Ringing schedules and much more, we are well in the
midst of our favorite season. <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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</span><br />
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<span class="fullpost"><span style="font-family: "Gill Sans MT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">But what
about those for whom the holidays aren’t that special: The homeless man
crossing the street in the bustle of holiday shoppers; the mother in the
grocery store among shoppers buying holiday specialties, while she cannot
afford a loaf of bread or a jug of milk?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Gill Sans MT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">It is heart
breaking to hear stories of Daniel, a single father of a 10-year-old boy who
has been struggling since he lost his executive level job. He tells us he has
no money and no food and that his electricity will soon be turned off. He is
worried his son will spend Christmas sitting in a cold, dark house.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Gill Sans MT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">For Daniel,
and thousands of families in our community struggling through personal economic
crisis, hunger is a dark shadow, always looming. And during this festive
Christmas season, it is even harder. Will this be the Christmas where there is
no tree, no special dinner, no presents? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Gill Sans MT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">But <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">you</i></b>
CAN help. You CAN hold a CANNED food drive to help stock the pantry of The
Salvation Army so we can provide a basket of food to Daniel and the thousands
of families who will come through our doors to receive Angel Tree gifts. Whether
it is at your business, your church, your child’s school or even at your
family’s Thanksgiving gathering, anything helps. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Gill Sans MT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Or, you CAN
hold your own private drive!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Gill Sans MT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Help us turn this.....</b></span> </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> .... into THIS!</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "Gill Sans MT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Gill Sans MT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">It’s easy!
As you go about shopping for Thanksgiving, your Christmas season dinners and
parties or just your typical grocery shopping, pick up something extra. We need
canned, non-perishable goods and we while we won’t be picky, we especially need
canned vegetables, beans, pumpkin, fruit, soup and peanut butter. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Gill Sans MT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Then, bring
those cans of food to the west entrance of The Salvation Army Joy Center, 924
S. Hudson, between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, (not Nov. 28 or
29!) through Dec. 6, you’ll be putting a little more “merry” into someone’s
Christmas.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Gill Sans MT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">-DJ </span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01013498158220228854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-669739600082390997.post-20389418879735314342013-11-25T12:24:00.001-06:002013-11-25T16:02:08.306-06:00Women’s Auxiliary Christmas Luncheon & Fashion Show Helps Holiday Shopping<span class="fullpost">
“Try not to spend too much.” </span><br />
<span class="fullpost"><br />These are words my husband says to me every year before I head out to The Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary Christmas Luncheon & Fashion Show. I try to listen to his words of advice, but in the end, I usually come home with a box full of Christmas gifts from the amazing silent auction. <br />
<br />The treasures to be had via the silent auction are many! I now have a beautiful stained glass OU lamp that sits on my desk. Grants Administrator Vicki Thorne got some jewelry to give to her mother-in-law, mom, sister AND grandmother. Development Director Lindsay Sparks can now start her car from anywhere after she got remote start installed. Jenny McElyea, Volunteer Coordinator, got a gift certificate that will help her organize her house. And last year in a good example of teamwork, the entire Development Department worked together to out-bid everyone to get three gift certificates from Krispy Kreme. </span><br />
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<span class="fullpost">We really like donuts. </span><br />
<span class="fullpost"><br />
So, of course, all of us at Area Command are looking forward to December 3rd, when the 61st Christmas Luncheon & Fashion Show takes place at the Cox Business Center!</span><br />
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<span class="fullpost"> The 2013 theme is “Sounds of Christmas.” <br /> </span><br />
<span class="fullpost">Silent auction items include restaurant gift certificates, four tickets to a Kansas City Royals game and baskets and services from more than 100 local businesses. The live auction will feature items such as a flight over the Tulsa area in a Bi-Plane, dinner at a Tulsa Fire Station and a Hard Rock Golf getaway package. One lucky attendee will receive a beautiful piece of jewelry donated by Moody’s Jewelry. </span><br />
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Last year’s event raised more than $115,000.</span><br />
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<span class="fullpost">The Honorary Chair for the event is Konnie Boulter. Platinum donors include Richard and Norma Small and the Oxley Foundation. Silver donors include Stephanie and Al Howerton, Barnett Family Foundation, Debbie Cadieux, Ann McKellar, Burton Foundation and Bank of Oklahoma. </span><br />
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<span class="fullpost">Tulsa media celebrities will model fashions from Miss Jackson’s and serve as escorts for the models. Kristin Dickerson of KTUL-Channel 8 will be master of ceremonies. Models and their escorts include: Dickerson, Caitlin Alexander, Laura Neal and Andrew Kozak of KTUL; Marla Carter, Breanne Palmerini and Justin Wilfon from KJRH; Lori Fullbright, Terry Hood and Rich Lenz from KOTV; Shae Rozzi, Brittany Jeffers and Clay Loney from Fox 23, Ziva Branstetter, Enterprise Editor of The Tulsa World; and Morgan Phillips, senior editor of Tulsa People magazine. The models will also be joined by Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary members Rozann Knight and Judi Barrett. </span><br />
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<span class="fullpost">Tickets are $65. For reservations, call Barbara Richards Horn at 918-747-8316.</span><br />
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<span class="fullpost">Be warned, if there’s a gift certificate to a place that involves chocolate – you may have to compete against a determined Development Department!</span><br />
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<span class="fullpost">-Carrie</span><br />
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<span class="fullpost"> </span>The Salvation Armyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12766471214182685756noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-669739600082390997.post-38247583837763532922013-11-13T14:49:00.001-06:002013-11-13T14:49:24.623-06:00Championship Wins for Two Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Tulsa Football TeamsAfter months of long practices full of throwing, tackling and wind sprints, the 2013 football season in the American Youth Football Conference came to a close. <br />
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It ended on a high note for two teams: the North Mabee Mustangs and the Mabee Red Shield Cowboys. The 4th grade Mustangs team and the 3rd grade Cowboys team both won their championship game!!!<br />
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The 4th grade North Mabee Mustang team has a lot of talent. This marks the third year in a row this team has won the championship, winning as Mighty Mites (1st & 2nd grade) and as a 3rd grade team. The 4th grade team has NEVER lost a game!<br />
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The 3rd grade Mabee Red Shield team won a hard fought championship game 13-6. Mabee Red Shield’s 6th grade team also made it to the semi-finals.<br />
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West Mabee’s football teams also had a successful season. The 3rd, 4th and 5th grade teams all made it to the semi-final rounds of the playoffs. <br />
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Congratulations to all of the football teams, coaches, parents and support staff involved in the 2013 season!<br />
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-Carrie <br />
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</span>Vicki Thornehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15232487594984432057noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-669739600082390997.post-18186326118116254752013-11-11T20:47:00.001-06:002013-11-13T14:49:57.491-06:00Celebrating Veterans<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Let me first say "Thank you" to all our service men and women who have protected our freedoms. On behalf of the Tulsa Metro Salvation Army, we are deeply grateful and indebted to you.<br /><br /></span><br />
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQmpoN8V2Q8WXiKIYOdOXpttlGwKCsKels7HcyMo58gFRXOE_-laSN0JvQ18MGAC6cSZ_sGDU9HS15xWfuMhqoz_zjV9yPbMOfKOj2vwFWVx7KIVRYVdWue3FOoX9hRpeSpH5jYLPmFAi3/s640/blogger-image-1363093329.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQmpoN8V2Q8WXiKIYOdOXpttlGwKCsKels7HcyMo58gFRXOE_-laSN0JvQ18MGAC6cSZ_sGDU9HS15xWfuMhqoz_zjV9yPbMOfKOj2vwFWVx7KIVRYVdWue3FOoX9hRpeSpH5jYLPmFAi3/s640/blogger-image-1363093329.jpg" /></a></span></div>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">The Salvation Army and the United States military have a long and mutually satisfying history. During World War I (the war to end all wars - so we had hoped), Salvation Army personnel were sworn in as Army Privates so they could serve alongside our fighting men in the European theater. Most of these "soldiers" were women. They were trained as nurses and sent to serve in makeshift hospitals behind battle fronts in France. They not only helped mend the bodies of wounded fighting men, they also brought healing to their weary, lonely souls. The Salvation Army "Lassies" sang to the troops, helped them write letters to home, prepared meals, and directed worship services. But the greatest spirit-lifter was the good old American doughnut. The "Doughnut Girls", as they became known, would fry up hundreds of these sugary pastries every day. Soldiers would line up and patiently wait for a taste of home.<br />During World War II many Salvation Army locations across the United States were used as local USO sites. Soldiers would often times go to the Salvation Army building for relaxation. Salvation Army personnel would play music, show movies, lead games, offer letter writing materials, and serve refreshments for free to help distract soldiers from thoughts of where they had just been, or where they about to go. It was a service that many said helped them get through the war.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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<br />Today, in some military towns Salvation Army canteens (mobile kitchens) greet returning soldiers as they disembark from overseas service, serving them and their loved ones snacks and beverages, and giving them "Welcome Home" gifts.<br /><br />Numerous Salvation Army officers have been commissioned as Chaplains throughout the years and served alongside our soldiers bringing comfort and courage. It has been, and remains to this day, our distinct honor to serve those who serve this country.<br /><br />Thank you all for your service.<br /><br />God bless you!<br /><br /><br />Major Jim Taylor<br />Tulsa Area Commander</span>The Salvation Armyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12766471214182685756noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-669739600082390997.post-53567425617264340972013-10-01T14:16:00.001-05:002013-10-01T14:16:13.068-05:00Holiday Volunteer Opportunities 2013<h3>
<b><span style="color: red;">Tis the season! </span></b></h3>
For many people the holiday season is still far, far away. But here at the Salvation Army we have been gearing up for Christmas since July! If you are like us and already have holidays on the brain, we are now accepting volunteers!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgame0EKjIRqwZGM2LbxmJCA_2IeqKop3zrjGfqoIViZnQVRqi9OzEyYBq0e-x2nIdFEkFz8JC3GoaBKkzQ_pkKGFv70A77sHZzr3VYthtdlBqjSNzyYDVbgY1ly8jKS1iuMBl_RJ4Yx8zV/s1600/DJandRiley%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgame0EKjIRqwZGM2LbxmJCA_2IeqKop3zrjGfqoIViZnQVRqi9OzEyYBq0e-x2nIdFEkFz8JC3GoaBKkzQ_pkKGFv70A77sHZzr3VYthtdlBqjSNzyYDVbgY1ly8jKS1iuMBl_RJ4Yx8zV/s200/DJandRiley%25281%2529.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Great for parents and kids to do together! </td></tr>
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Every year thousands come out and help us with a variety of volunteer opportunities, such as: Bell-ringing, Angel Tree Booths, Gift Sorting, Meal Serving, Christmas Distribution, Food Sorting, Food Packing and more.<br />
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We hope you will be one of them!<br />
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<b>To register for any of these great opportunities <a href="http://www.formstack.com/forms/?1284872-lzFnthmxfp" target="_blank">click here</a>!</b><br />
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<h2>
2nd Annual Winter Wonderland Experience </h2>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqiGz2UR98Ms1RD-Ag_0F-2-v1c602PImKoQEepQCkvfYY_rH8QYJ7bW6sjEPWIk40zFf7ryRnpN2-iANBEgv02iLc_mDp59PUdOzMjvjG8qXyqSOFbeNQ0L-G5TeNkCkZPTBorXmnnM_D/s1600/Volunteer+Makayla+Evans+sorting+toys%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqiGz2UR98Ms1RD-Ag_0F-2-v1c602PImKoQEepQCkvfYY_rH8QYJ7bW6sjEPWIk40zFf7ryRnpN2-iANBEgv02iLc_mDp59PUdOzMjvjG8qXyqSOFbeNQ0L-G5TeNkCkZPTBorXmnnM_D/s200/Volunteer+Makayla+Evans+sorting+toys%25281%2529.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Toy Shop! </td></tr>
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I am so excited to announce our <b>Winter Wonderland Experience </b>was a huge success last year and we are thrilled to be continuing it again this year! Every year hundreds of volunteers come through our doors during the Christmas season, but most only participate in one holiday opportunity and never get to see all of the efforts taking place to make Christmas wonderful for thousands of local families.<br />
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The Winter Wonderland Experience is a unique volunteer experience; you are able to choose how much time you'd like to give and we give you the opportunity to see what goes into creating Christmas joy for thousands in need.<br />
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Do you have a heart to serve a holiday meal, but would like to do more? Sign-up for our <b>Snow Flake</b> experience.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7MTD0HWpJI8rMiWAoflCxXSjb6npvAaLJoYgHa-KxnWOYwXrSfvKfzT6fIwjIg75HN-Cwa0dGtxXtX7UxBl6zT39undf4tnCojmvLuWYCvnwPy5p5G2ANVSNylCB11M29C0WOzFEuVeYk/s1600/Outback+Steak+Volunteers+preparing+Thanksgiving+meals+11-22-12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7MTD0HWpJI8rMiWAoflCxXSjb6npvAaLJoYgHa-KxnWOYwXrSfvKfzT6fIwjIg75HN-Cwa0dGtxXtX7UxBl6zT39undf4tnCojmvLuWYCvnwPy5p5G2ANVSNylCB11M29C0WOzFEuVeYk/s200/Outback+Steak+Volunteers+preparing+Thanksgiving+meals+11-22-12.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Outback Steakhouse employees serve Thanksgiving dinner!</td></tr>
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Are you really excited about the season? Already started singing "Silent Night"? Then we have the perfect opportunity for you! Be our <b>Snow Angel</b> and kick off the holidays right with a wide range of holiday volunteer opportunities!<br />
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<b>Check out the other wintery opportunities <a href="http://www.formstack.com/forms/?1589283-lzFnthmxfp" target="_blank">click here</a>! to decide which best fits your holiday schedule. </b><br />
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Each Winter Wonderland volunteer will receive a limited edition 2nd annual collectable t-shirt to wear while volunteering-- showing the world how special you are to us! You will also be invited to a VIP reception (in January) where you will be honored for your dedication to making The Salvation Army Christmas programs a success!<br />
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Spaces are very limited, so I hope to hear from you soon!
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-Jenny<br />
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<br />Vicki Thornehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15232487594984432057noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-669739600082390997.post-64166603729665517532013-09-20T16:29:00.000-05:002013-09-24T09:47:14.287-05:00West Mabee Mentors Motivate Dozens Towards College<i><span class="fullpost">“The mediocre teacher tells. The good teacher explains. The superior teacher demonstrates. The great teacher inspires.” </span></i><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span class="fullpost">― William Arthur Ward</span></blockquote>
<span class="fullpost">Mentors are important in our six Boys & Girls Clubs. They can make a difference in a child’s life. That became evident at West Mabee where recently 24 teens graduated high school and are now college freshman. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLrJEqNJ4TUolUeGk_ZInz8i3QrM_3sUMldYSoGirN2uU1l9PCAoCp95hcpqXiOIyiIVpEYvXADkQW9VueoVcUHoQp1nzI0Sk5pM9rKmN5LrNEt0oE_01eG1W8O-vadSibTW9jT3g34JTS/s1600/IMG_1226.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLrJEqNJ4TUolUeGk_ZInz8i3QrM_3sUMldYSoGirN2uU1l9PCAoCp95hcpqXiOIyiIVpEYvXADkQW9VueoVcUHoQp1nzI0Sk5pM9rKmN5LrNEt0oE_01eG1W8O-vadSibTW9jT3g34JTS/s320/IMG_1226.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Giddings with teen mentees</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<span class="fullpost"></span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span class="fullpost">“It’s a sense of accomplishment,” says Club Director Jamar Gibbings, who has been at West Mabee for the past 12 years. “I’ve never seen that many go to college at the same time.”</span></blockquote>
<span class="fullpost">West Mabee alumni are attending colleges all across the state: </span><br />
<ul>
<li><span class="fullpost">8 = Rogers State University (RSU)</span></li>
<li><span class="fullpost">4 = Bacone College</span></li>
<li><span class="fullpost">4 = Tulsa Community College (TCC)</span></li>
<li><span class="fullpost">3 = Northeastern Oklahoma Junior College (NEO)</span></li>
<li><span class="fullpost">3 = University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) </span></li>
<li><span class="fullpost">1 = Connors State</span></li>
<li><span class="fullpost">1 = University of Oklahoma (OU)</span></li>
</ul>
<span class="fullpost">Many kids in the neighborhood surrounding </span><span class="fullpost">West Mabee</span><span class="fullpost"> are faced with a choice after high school, continue their education and become better citizens or take what they have and try to make it without getting into trouble. Out of a group of 25 teens who grew up together, 24 of them chose higher education. </span><br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span class="fullpost"> “We’ve known these kids since they were in first and second grade. All had serious issues at home,” he says. “The staff showed these kids that they can go to school and college and become whatever they want.”</span> <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpBtMcIko3j1_wbYH4YeV3JYs9z5bW_1Je77HYd2DTi6pIj4GhTH_vFO6AfkwBhshJbiBMo1A5SB97c48XVcIrEYenLqhqGv6Du70HHC7gIQEuBr7MPa1YVYcOjk-Ffj59HeUIWH61cR55/s1600/Langston+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpBtMcIko3j1_wbYH4YeV3JYs9z5bW_1Je77HYd2DTi6pIj4GhTH_vFO6AfkwBhshJbiBMo1A5SB97c48XVcIrEYenLqhqGv6Du70HHC7gIQEuBr7MPa1YVYcOjk-Ffj59HeUIWH61cR55/s320/Langston+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Teens on a college tour @ Langston University</td></tr>
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
We didn’t have to really push these kids, they were self-motivated. They knew they wanted to go to college and took steps to make it happen.” </blockquote>
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<span class="fullpost">One of freshmen is Anthony Wilson, who is also our <a href="http://salarmytulsa.blogspot.com/2013/03/meet-basketball-champion-anthony-wilson.html" target="_blank">Youth of the Year</a>. When Wilson came to West Mabee, he was a victim of abuse and had an older brother in jail. Giddings became his mentor and took him to church and bowling, among other places. Wilson looked at Giddings as a role model, someone he wanted to be like as he got older. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2013 Youth of the Year: Anthony Wilson</td></tr>
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<span class="fullpost">Wilson is a great basketball player and saw that as a way to get into college. Giddings helped Wilson fill out applications, and he is now a freshman at Bacone College on a basketball scholarship. Although getting into college through sports is great, Giddings stressed to Wilson it’s important to get educated.</span><br />
<span class="fullpost"><br /> </span><br />
<span class="fullpost">We appreciate mentors like Giddings and all the volunteers/staff at our Boys & Girls Clubs who are truly making an impact in our community!</span><br />
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<span class="fullpost">-Carrie</span><br />
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</span>Vicki Thornehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15232487594984432057noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-669739600082390997.post-6217287976334567882013-09-20T14:10:00.003-05:002013-09-20T14:10:59.336-05:00North Mabee Boys & Girls Club Celebrates 40 Years<span class="fullpost">Some call it a “shining star” in North Tulsa, which some consider the most economically deprived area of the city. The North Mabee Boys & Girls Club is celebrating 40 years of changing lives in Tulsa by throwing a party. A big one. The Club is combining Homecoming at North Mabee with its 40th birthday celebration! </span><br />
<span class="fullpost"><br />North Mabee is a place where kids can feel safe. Staff and volunteers work hard to show these kids how to be good citizens and let them know they have a chance in life. With a dark room, ballet classes and a recording studio, the Club exposes kids to the arts. It’s a place where kids discover they can dream big and those dreams can come true. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kids in the recording studio</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">ACT/SAT prep with Ms. Carol</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tiny ballarinas!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
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<span class="fullpost">North Mabee has an impressive list of alumni,
including professional athletes, journalists, musicians, lawmakers and
city leaders. </span><br />
<span class="fullpost"><br /></span>
<span class="fullpost">Club Director Latrice Fowlkes has been with North Mabee for 22 years. </span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9xA8R5g6rZL5TjPnJFcpqceo-P1ezcBkn5twUv7NjycdvxUhDOa_Da_NK7qXxKVS7t9LYtmolAyw3Qs_Sw-ey45Z1lcjFn6cR5SMnVwZkqdvPbc8o2Cod1PbLxE-NSdwHfkfe5JhsjEz1/s1600/Latrice.fowlkes.2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9xA8R5g6rZL5TjPnJFcpqceo-P1ezcBkn5twUv7NjycdvxUhDOa_Da_NK7qXxKVS7t9LYtmolAyw3Qs_Sw-ey45Z1lcjFn6cR5SMnVwZkqdvPbc8o2Cod1PbLxE-NSdwHfkfe5JhsjEz1/s200/Latrice.fowlkes.2.JPG" width="132" /></a><span class="fullpost">“I’m most proud of our volunteers,” says Fowlkes. “We have volunteers who are long-standing. Some have been here for 30 years. They love the kids. Some started volunteering when their kids were members, but stayed around after the kids left.” </span></blockquote>
<span class="fullpost"><br />Something else North Mabee is proud of: its sports programs. During a 12 year period, North Mabee won football championships nine different times. Several professional athletes, including Philadelphia Eagles running back Felix Jones and New Orleans Saints wide receiver Robert Meachum, started playing football at North Mabee. But if you talk to any of the staff and volunteers at North Mabee, they’ll tell you it’s not about the sports, it’s about the kids. </span><br />
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<span class="fullpost"> <span class="fullpost">The sports may have got the kids to the Club, but then the staff work to teach them about life. Staff will take Club members on college trips so they can tour the campus and get the experience of being on campus. The ACT program prepares Club members for college and helps them prepare for tests. </span></span><br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span class="fullpost">“Kids used to come here for sports, but now they’re coming more for academics,” says Fowlkes. “They see how other Club members have become successful, and they want that too.” </span></blockquote>
<span class="fullpost"><br />Performances are scheduled for the Homecoming/40th Anniversary Celebration along with face painting, a Jupiter jump and a chili dinner. It costs $4 for chili and a dessert. <br /> </span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="fullpost"><b>Friday, September 20th </b><br />6pm - Pep rally followed by dance <br /><b>Saturday, September 21st:</b><br />9am – Football games start<br />9:30 (halftime of first game) – Might Might Cheerleaders<br />10am – Lacy Jammers<br />11am – KIPP Prep School Drumline <br />12:45pm – Pizzazz Line Dancers</span></div>
<span class="fullpost"><br />Come celebrate the great achievements of North Mabee!<br />- Carrie</span><br />
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</span>Vicki Thornehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15232487594984432057noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-669739600082390997.post-44855425632752552372013-09-12T16:33:00.000-05:002013-09-12T16:34:55.324-05:00Free Wifi For the Homeless!<span class="fullpost">I’m excited to write this blog because it has been a long time coming. </span><br />
<span class="fullpost">It all started last fall, when the Tulsa Area United Way got a large donation of used laptops from local business, Hilti and set up an application process for agencies like ours to get them. We were lucky enough to get 40 to use at our Center of Hope. This left us with a bit of a problem though, the laptops needed wi-fi for our clients to check them out and use them but the only wi-fi we had at the facility was in our administrative area and wasn’t set up as a public network.<br /><br />This spurred us into action and we asked for a grant to cover the cost to do all the “techy” things needed to turn a 70,000 sq/ft. building into a hot spot for guests. Thankfully, The Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary provided the funds needed. As we were ironing out the security features, our guests could see the public network appearing on their devices and they started getting excited! Questions flowed to our staff about what the guest network was and when it would be available.</span><br />
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<span class="fullpost"><br /></span><span class="fullpost">During the first week we had the wi-fi available
(with no promotion/signage at all) we had an average of about 100 guests
a night utilizing the network. This may be very surprising to some,
but many of the guests staying at the shelter keep mobile phones for
necessary contact with work and family but they cannot afford the data
packages required to surf the internet via a mobile device. Our main
overnight population is required to stay in the facility after check-in
which means that from 6p.m. to 6a.m. they haven’t had access to email,
web, news, etc. Now they can spend that time looking for housing,
completing schoolwork, playing games to pass the time and communicating
with family and friends. </span><br />
<span class="fullpost"><br />We are currently soliciting funding to expand the technology program at the Center by building an on-site computer lab. This lab would be accessible to all clients with designated hours for after-school homework time. Besides general internet access and other basic functions, clients will also have the opportunity to enroll in useful courses, taught by community volunteers and Center of Hope staff.<br /><br />I hope you can share in my excitement! We are so proud to be the first shelter in Tulsa offering this service. It improves the quality of life for many and gives them something that we all take for granted! </span><br />
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<span class="fullpost">-Lindsay </span>Vicki Thornehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15232487594984432057noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-669739600082390997.post-61808527715575630462013-09-09T15:36:00.000-05:002013-09-09T15:36:04.108-05:00Day of Caring Sheds Light On Increased Homeless Family Population<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfogZZp9D9GFBJxydjDTc_rnJTnASeePIfN8qEllOGCAzSpGAfJ-gFgcsJqIy-ve5guqUDOMK4aR4dVhux2FpYrVBhqZ2NrWZZyl2mAe59x9cOXv1ci786OkH_OzAAP9rqMyUjInPUQJV_/s1600/Jim+Norton+volunteers+paint+family+room.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfogZZp9D9GFBJxydjDTc_rnJTnASeePIfN8qEllOGCAzSpGAfJ-gFgcsJqIy-ve5guqUDOMK4aR4dVhux2FpYrVBhqZ2NrWZZyl2mAe59x9cOXv1ci786OkH_OzAAP9rqMyUjInPUQJV_/s200/Jim+Norton+volunteers+paint+family+room.png" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Volunteers from Jim Norton <br />Toyota paint family rooms.</td></tr>
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The first thing I noticed when I walked into the Center of Hope during my Day of Caring site visit was a little baby about the same age as my infant son. He was smiling and giggling while being held by his mother, who had come to the shelter for help. The image stuck with me throughout the weekend. Although I know that the family is now getting the help it needs, I just couldn't forget. <br />
<br />The Center of Hope is seeing more families like this one. According to caseworker Gale Baker, the number of families seeking help at the Center of Hope has tripled in the past seven years. On average, the Center of Hope will house about 20 families a night during the summer. Three years ago, only four to seven families would stay the night at the shelter. The Center of Hope has 11 rooms for these families, which means a room may have more than one family during those crowded nights. <br />
<br />“The face of the homeless isn’t what it was 20 years ago,” says Baker. “These aren’t all drug addicts or alcoholics. Some of these people lost a job or had unexpected medical problems that caused them financial trouble.” <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDz5P3f0EoDW6pwSiLG_KhMh8kjnev4chuOVvdO9t3FUDgKotkC6E3iOH-wnyNzeMB8cjuRtVXcH1PXuX3o368nNuuZHStgJ10O5xk94Vr-kIPnaMFX5PXyFrqyE7GtrHctLdeHwPiRSI1/s1600/TOYS2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDz5P3f0EoDW6pwSiLG_KhMh8kjnev4chuOVvdO9t3FUDgKotkC6E3iOH-wnyNzeMB8cjuRtVXcH1PXuX3o368nNuuZHStgJ10O5xk94Vr-kIPnaMFX5PXyFrqyE7GtrHctLdeHwPiRSI1/s200/TOYS2.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A pile of toys in the shelter's family<br />lounge where little ones can play.</td></tr>
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Add in the cost of at least one child and it can lead to homelessness. <br />
<br />On Friday September 6, a group of United Way volunteers from Jim Norton Toyota were painting the walls of the family rooms at the Center of Hope as part of the Day of Caring. <br />
<br />“When children come to the shelter, by no fault of their own, we want a place that’s cheerful and not dull,” says Baker. “These volunteers are helping make that happen.”<br />
<br />Caseworkers at the Center of Hope are working hard to help families get back on their feet so they don’t have to stay at the shelter anymore. I’m thankful we provide a place for these families to go, but I’m hoping the numbers will start to decrease.<br />
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-Carrie <br />
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The Salvation Armyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12766471214182685756noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-669739600082390997.post-10282018602048150422013-09-04T09:08:00.000-05:002013-09-04T09:08:13.175-05:00United Way Day of Caring brings help where it's needed most<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKxC3o-Nk4_B2NWpwsD6DEFVBhtqoDqUpK0RcPaHMJWZyi8vyS6_3-hPg6L6Mad9TAb8-E0P06TuOrkHo8M2_2pL-4hp-qX9UmkZktasG8QPsdgkC9DPxE6mRAzge7Dg6QGzlZrfZgZ302/s1600/Sapulpa+Magellan+Midstream+Partners.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKxC3o-Nk4_B2NWpwsD6DEFVBhtqoDqUpK0RcPaHMJWZyi8vyS6_3-hPg6L6Mad9TAb8-E0P06TuOrkHo8M2_2pL-4hp-qX9UmkZktasG8QPsdgkC9DPxE6mRAzge7Dg6QGzlZrfZgZ302/s200/Sapulpa+Magellan+Midstream+Partners.jpg" width="200" /></a>Each year, The Salvation Army Boys & Girls Clubs and Center of Hope are used by thousands of people. During that course our facilities can become in need of some special TLC. But when you have lots of projects to do, and only a few people available on a regular basis to help, what do you do? <br />
<br /><b>Solution: United Way Day of Caring!</b><br />
<br />The United Way Day of Caring is a once a year event always in September (and the kick-off will be held at our very own West Mabee Boys & Girls Club on September 6) where,<br />
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“United Way matches volunteers in workplaces to projects at agencies across the community, giving volunteers an opportunity to contribute in a hands on way to make a difference. Employers give their employees the day to work in the community as an expression of their commitment to their employees and to the organizations that support people all across Tulsa. Projects may include interior or exterior painting, yard work, preparing community gardens, building ramps, installing shelving or providing computer training.”</blockquote>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6vz1Thhd128340Y_lgRK5fccfyKnNvAebfWi7QTTKt31P94gs96m6Tozc99QCwV55Ryc7t0BjQD_TYhon8jPMx3HMMgk0lcE3O9WOnAA980zpDCUsHHWYSKu5Jw-1CfFGMalpbtMYaRKR/s1600/ONEOK..JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6vz1Thhd128340Y_lgRK5fccfyKnNvAebfWi7QTTKt31P94gs96m6Tozc99QCwV55Ryc7t0BjQD_TYhon8jPMx3HMMgk0lcE3O9WOnAA980zpDCUsHHWYSKu5Jw-1CfFGMalpbtMYaRKR/s200/ONEOK..JPG" width="200" /></a>Each year partner agencies like The Salvation Army count on the United Way Day of Caring to help complete tasks that we wouldn’t be able to accomplish on our own. This year the United Way will be helping us with over 30 projects and will provide over <b>200 volunteers</b> and estimated <b>1,000 hours</b> of man power. And with the average value of a volunteer hour being $18.28 that provides a <b>value of $18,280</b> worth of time alone. Not to mention that many companies donate the needed supplies to assist with the projects. <br />
<br />This is why we depend on volunteers and the United Way so much, they truly make the difference! We couldn’t continue doing the most good without them!<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikMWPtF8EGkyHjFvEvWeEkiPh3CcIaP261wuNBPKsyQspXEYz99Om5MIhNJyF4P7-BAbDRwztlOhqP86qBKVwWYq-kYhfye0rdewHSABrJco7PHKblWuVP1aj9XkmogjSQWbK2QlBPMP9g/s1600/Picnic.Table.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikMWPtF8EGkyHjFvEvWeEkiPh3CcIaP261wuNBPKsyQspXEYz99Om5MIhNJyF4P7-BAbDRwztlOhqP86qBKVwWYq-kYhfye0rdewHSABrJco7PHKblWuVP1aj9XkmogjSQWbK2QlBPMP9g/s200/Picnic.Table.JPG" width="200" /></a><br />To learn more about volunteering with The Salvation Army contact Jenny McElyea, Volunteer and Disaster Resource Manager at 918-587-7801 or to learn more about participating in the United Way Day of Caring contact Maxine Street 918-583-7171. <br />
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-Jenny <br />
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</span>The Salvation Armyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12766471214182685756noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-669739600082390997.post-54630950534738663972013-08-29T12:00:00.000-05:002013-08-29T12:00:00.854-05:00Youth Football Begins at Tulsa area Boys & Girls Clubs!<h3>
<span class="fullpost"> Boys & Girls Clubs offer enriching after school activities to Tulsa area youth</span></h3>
<span class="fullpost"> In addition to great after school activities, the Boys & Girls Club of Metro Tulsa offer a wide range of sports activities for children. </span><br />
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<span class="fullpost">Right now, we have football and cheerleading happending at our 3 urban Clubs.</span><br />
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<span class="fullpost">At Mabee Red Shield, it's the Cowboys, with teams from 1st and 2nd grade (the Mighty Mites) all the way to 6th.</span><br />
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<span class="fullpost">West Mabee Club is the Panthers and North Mabee is the Mustangs.</span><br />
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<span class="fullpost">Check out these great action shots from</span> last Saturday's game on the 24th.<br />
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<span class="userContent">The 3rd grade Cowboys vs the Trojans; a 25-0 win for the Cowboys! Go Cowboys!</span><span class="fullpost"> </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXWXjJE-R-jo39gWefsAfSAEks6m9Uxki2VbPw7Hz_HTwToDlGFOBcld2XTt-l155tDTNlCebQSvHAfCyHpLKV3TGpslN8Ru198MIjCTg9_j2df1gmsBBM2PQA6C7KLxjztVcN2QAyAoqb/s1600/1173661_573514776038778_417869238_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXWXjJE-R-jo39gWefsAfSAEks6m9Uxki2VbPw7Hz_HTwToDlGFOBcld2XTt-l155tDTNlCebQSvHAfCyHpLKV3TGpslN8Ru198MIjCTg9_j2df1gmsBBM2PQA6C7KLxjztVcN2QAyAoqb/s320/1173661_573514776038778_417869238_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="fullpost">I love little kids in little uniforms!</span><br />
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<span class="fullpost">To find out about upcoming sports and activies, you can follow each Club on their own Facebook page!</span><br />
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<a href="http://facebook.com/mabeeredbgc" target="_blank"><span class="fullpost">Mabee Red Shield</span></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Salvation-Army-North-Mabee-Boys-Girls-Club/315465775222829" target="_blank"><span class="fullpost">North Mabee</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.facebook.com/westmabee" target="_blank"><span class="fullpost">West Mabee</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.facebook.com/sandspringsbgc" target="_blank"><span class="fullpost">Sand Springs</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.facebook.com/sapulpabgc" target="_blank"><span class="fullpost">Sapulpa</span></a></div>
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<span class="fullpost"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/brokenarrowbgc" target="_blank">Broken Arrow</a></span></div>
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<span class="fullpost">Viva la sports! </span><br />
<span class="fullpost">-Vicki</span><br />
<span class="fullpost"><br /></span>Vicki Thornehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15232487594984432057noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-669739600082390997.post-17214390649404798612013-08-27T13:13:00.002-05:002013-08-27T13:13:36.403-05:00TV Dreams Turn Into Reality Through The Most Amazing Race<h3>
<span class="fullpost">Tulsa to host the Salvation Army's Most Amazing Race, June 2014 </span></h3>
<span class="fullpost"> I’ll admit I watch a lot of television. While on maternity leave, I got addicted to the Food Network. I tried to create the same recipes I saw on my favorite shows, but my entree didn’t quite look the same as Bobby Flay’s dish. I also can’t sew, sing, dance (at least not very well) and I have no aspirations to put my children in any pageants. I wouldn’t make it out in the wild very long. The chances for me to be on a reality show are slim to none. </span><br />
<span class="fullpost"><br />But the one show that I would want to participate in is CBS’s “The Amazing Race.” I love this show because contestants get to do some unique “tasks” while seeing some beautiful places around the world. Now, The Salvation Army is giving Tulsans an opportunity to turn their TV dreams into reality during <b>The Most Amazing Race</b>, a new event coming to downtown in June 2014! </span><br />
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<span class="fullpost">A scavenger hunt-adventure style race, The Most
Amazing Race is a popular fundraising event for Salvation Army
organizations throughout the United State, such as Minneapolis, Fort
Lauderdale, Pittsburgh and Raleigh. Now, we’re bringing it here. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlDnONn_1jSX0OOUwKbuBr69IIgkFTZltBN8CH2odl3XpRPqOnFZPUa8ZXBA7dx4cuwKzcZK_qNNhDYzwLoXHZiLHs7uXRmJZzXT1yslnJd0u6PjokhLXBeOlWi-XB9KCvD9pGhPGJauoe/s1600/LOGO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlDnONn_1jSX0OOUwKbuBr69IIgkFTZltBN8CH2odl3XpRPqOnFZPUa8ZXBA7dx4cuwKzcZK_qNNhDYzwLoXHZiLHs7uXRmJZzXT1yslnJd0u6PjokhLXBeOlWi-XB9KCvD9pGhPGJauoe/s200/LOGO.jpg" width="191" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Logo provided by GuRuStu Group</td></tr>
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<span class="fullpost"> </span><br /><span class="fullpost"></span><br />
<span class="fullpost">Patterned after CBS’s “The Amazing Race,” teams of 2 will be tasked with physical and mental challenges as they “race” throughout downtown – including challenges in Tulsa’s most popular areas such as the Blue Dome District, Brady District, and other downtown locations. The purpose of the event is to highlight local amenities and features while also educating the public about the Salvation Army’s programs and services—all while having tons of fun.<br /> </span><br />
<span class="fullpost">The Most Amazing Race combines physical tasks, such as obstacle courses and sports engagement, with mental tasks such as following directions, solving puzzles or overcoming common fears. Teams and volunteers won’t know what’s included in the challenges until race day. They could be tasked to learn a cheerleading or dance routine or make a recipe in the Center of Hope’s kitchen. To make sure the race isn’t easy on anyone, participants will also be faced with detours throughout the event where they’ll have to choose between two challenges.<br /> </span><br />
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<span class="fullpost"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg05Pj94MAgA3APve58AUQM7UJB-NaXsxAKNxFJnUxscY8hQMbbmjL_3KKzpt0Db92RyZDJQA7b_zNmTAvKQJ9onx49QRmNCssqwG301RMyFgE3JfM3ht4vBmIxkeoasb1xr8yQN7DnOYHO/s1600/Cover+photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="118" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg05Pj94MAgA3APve58AUQM7UJB-NaXsxAKNxFJnUxscY8hQMbbmjL_3KKzpt0Db92RyZDJQA7b_zNmTAvKQJ9onx49QRmNCssqwG301RMyFgE3JfM3ht4vBmIxkeoasb1xr8yQN7DnOYHO/s320/Cover+photo.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span class="fullpost">Teams will pay a registration cost and then be required to raise a modest amount of funds to participate in the race. The winning team will win a grand prize, while the top fundraising teams will receive prizes and special advantages throughout the race. Corporate sponsors will have the unique opportunity to create a special challenge in the race.<br /> </span><br />
<span class="fullpost">All money raised from the Most Amazing Race will go to the Center of Hope, the largest homeless shelter in northeast Oklahoma. <br /> </span><br />
<span class="fullpost">Participants interested can stay current on details through the race- specific <b>Facebook</b> page, just search for “The Most Amazing Race Tulsa.”</span><br />
<span class="fullpost"><br />I’m so excited to be a part of this unique fundraiser; it's a chance to make your reality T.V. dreams come true, right here in Tulsa! Stay tuned!</span><br />
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<span class="fullpost">-Carrie</span><br />
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</span>Vicki Thornehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15232487594984432057noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-669739600082390997.post-91710920559594346242013-08-22T15:46:00.001-05:002013-08-22T15:49:08.786-05:00The Christmas SpiritI know it is only August, don't worry I haven't completely lost my mind. However, the last week or so has really gotten me into the full fledged Christmas spirit. This is my 5th Christmas at The Salvation Army and most of our blog readers know by now that it is more than just an "assistance program" around here. It is sort of like the circus comes to town for about 2 months, camps out in my office and won't leave.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1a-oJ7muWeS4DrnZ918HdjqutS_podn6vYjLYT5wHOzZrySal-yIrDRKaLcjXq5hqzQTJ0JD3KLNFUwkdfb-8z3zzRVsyvfuOcKSgPsK_csc8GDQZbmSGz_92eaSKBc1uNIj7J0ZR7CEP/s1600/Volunteer+Makayla+Evans+sorting+toys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1a-oJ7muWeS4DrnZ918HdjqutS_podn6vYjLYT5wHOzZrySal-yIrDRKaLcjXq5hqzQTJ0JD3KLNFUwkdfb-8z3zzRVsyvfuOcKSgPsK_csc8GDQZbmSGz_92eaSKBc1uNIj7J0ZR7CEP/s200/Volunteer+Makayla+Evans+sorting+toys.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Volunteering in the Toy Shop!</td></tr>
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We are already handing out Christmas assistance registration appointments. These 3,960 slots represent 3,960 Tulsa families and we will set down with each one, review their situation and then determine if they are eligible for assistance. In order to do all this we start in August. So, in my line of work the "holiday season" starts in August and ends in January. I have adapted but I don't understand why I can't put up a tree or hang stockings until Thanksgiving, by then Christmas is almost over! <br />
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In the last few weeks I have worked on projects regarding kettles, toy drives and food drives.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY3kzYt114Vusoqg3COTzhIiRn1v5ajhkQwxIZ35Ul3BLy61fMeZRmj5jIxCmmNgG2XEcCOvGHEvEoLKjczVMkyXyDQOm7MbjTwjbhcrFSFYjOBh6_F-L56yVCdz8OlVznlRJ3dEq3Nbv0/s1600/Linzandmom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY3kzYt114Vusoqg3COTzhIiRn1v5ajhkQwxIZ35Ul3BLy61fMeZRmj5jIxCmmNgG2XEcCOvGHEvEoLKjczVMkyXyDQOm7MbjTwjbhcrFSFYjOBh6_F-L56yVCdz8OlVznlRJ3dEq3Nbv0/s200/Linzandmom.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="138" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Mom and I volunteered together<br />
last Christmas! </td></tr>
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I say all this to ask you this question, when does Christmas start for you? Are you already buying stocking stuffers, planning holiday meals or most importantly thinking about how you can give back this year? We would love to have you join our team and our needs are great. You can host a toy drive, canned food drive or volunteer to ring bells! Join us in the Christmas Joy Center to help us sort Angel Tree bags, work in the Toy Shop or stock our food baskets. We have so much for everyone. <a href="http://salarmytulsa.blogspot.com/2013/07/tis-season-holiday-volunteer-dates.html" target="_blank">Holiday Volunteer Dates</a> have already been posted.<br />
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Here is a promise from me, if you volunteer this Christmas you will automatically feel more blessed than ever, and even if you already love Christmas you will love it more than you thought possible. Maybe you will love it so much you decide to start early every year like I do. We can put up our August Christmas trees together.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjghXb7LSRMm3NGBsFPUUvonHjq4tNOC4Ow3wNHT_wMDqDExYb9y91NE74HvrI_JmR-3gxZ1sf6rp5p8Si8CeFlkAkEm8FO2uS97SB0q0IOH4qlD9EoiBZ5tBIyO8WBCZ2ChvCIR-ON22kg/s1600/372061_566303759_679137132_q.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjghXb7LSRMm3NGBsFPUUvonHjq4tNOC4Ow3wNHT_wMDqDExYb9y91NE74HvrI_JmR-3gxZ1sf6rp5p8Si8CeFlkAkEm8FO2uS97SB0q0IOH4qlD9EoiBZ5tBIyO8WBCZ2ChvCIR-ON22kg/s1600/372061_566303759_679137132_q.jpg" /></a>~Lindsay<br />
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</span>The Salvation Armyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12766471214182685756noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-669739600082390997.post-60754834303338508402013-08-14T16:33:00.001-05:002013-08-14T16:33:21.470-05:00Back to School: Volunteer Needs<span class="fullpost">School is in session! Hearing this is music to any parent’s ears, to students…not so much. </span><br />
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<span class="fullpost">As we gear down and start getting our Boys & Girls Club members into a new routine it’s important to start establishing good habits. </span><br />
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<span class="fullpost">One habit that proves to be highly effective to improve students’ learning and retention ability is to have a study buddy or a homework helper to assist in what kids sometimes view as the mundane task of doing homework. Study buddies or homework helpers are volunteers who assist our club members with homework assignments at any of our 6 Boys & Girls Club locations.</span><br />
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<span class="fullpost"> A study buddy can help a student in many ways from just letting the child read out loud to you to you to reviewing basic math problems. As a volunteer tutor you can help as much or as little as you are comfortable with! </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijPjU8KvAuE6QfDt2pTFI1hbTkM8SBxnU7PX-fKXxc6xVwMaUsyGFJkf-gXCuaNZQ3vEysQBlSdFK3xizOnTp_tX5EkHiymEIWWdrvPK7_KfyFCWW2_coZLTV0HEDTj2SB6oO7C5qwMIhu/s1600/homeworkhelper2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="110" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijPjU8KvAuE6QfDt2pTFI1hbTkM8SBxnU7PX-fKXxc6xVwMaUsyGFJkf-gXCuaNZQ3vEysQBlSdFK3xizOnTp_tX5EkHiymEIWWdrvPK7_KfyFCWW2_coZLTV0HEDTj2SB6oO7C5qwMIhu/s320/homeworkhelper2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="fullpost"><br />There are lots of benefits for kids who have a study buddy!<br />• Fewer distractions then in a traditional classroom.<br />• Able to focus on a specific area of interest<br />• Helps build confidence and self-esteem. Perhaps the single most important factor in learning.<br />• Catch-up sometimes kids miss things in class, having a homework helper is the perfect way to review materials.<br />• SHYNESS! Sometimes a kid who is shy will back away from asking questions in a classroom, having a tutor who is there just to help them makes it easier to ask questions.</span><br />
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<a name='more'></a> <span class="fullpost">Not thinking that being a Study Buddy is for you, but still interested in volunteering? Why not consider one of our other back to school opportunities? Love sports? Why not consider being a coach? We are gearing up for Football season and could use coaches, assistant coaches and even cheerleading coaches! </span><br />
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<span class="fullpost"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCw9AkixIKTx1KbCXnaguhFjfQxo3PZu44V70wrCjJ7z4v0DhAFBE0hij906tvpReCUMDozEExCDRA-LuqikfvmTirE0utawdXaAcdrVLfM0plrDfLiVJHMn7DUz3IPdOKDGWNv7vJJKF6/s1600/Cheerleaders.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCw9AkixIKTx1KbCXnaguhFjfQxo3PZu44V70wrCjJ7z4v0DhAFBE0hij906tvpReCUMDozEExCDRA-LuqikfvmTirE0utawdXaAcdrVLfM0plrDfLiVJHMn7DUz3IPdOKDGWNv7vJJKF6/s320/Cheerleaders.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span class="fullpost">Prefer to be behind the scenes, why not volunteer a few hours a week to help our staff with office work or even with after school care! </span><br />
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<span class="fullpost"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQDF78gsPDQcmmeygVa6ZmlR1w2HYPLh4ERUZN1kr1Wp7o_I28m4jJYmOKRHomv9q9nu7e8_zTmotmryEk4JUIeZ1b3WPx86ld87V6uyc11ey6xE-k4ZYMFw2glhe1I4yqVAY0J7rLwti5/s1600/Dishon+Cropped.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQDF78gsPDQcmmeygVa6ZmlR1w2HYPLh4ERUZN1kr1Wp7o_I28m4jJYmOKRHomv9q9nu7e8_zTmotmryEk4JUIeZ1b3WPx86ld87V6uyc11ey6xE-k4ZYMFw2glhe1I4yqVAY0J7rLwti5/s320/Dishon+Cropped.JPG" width="298" /></a></span></div>
<span class="fullpost">The possibilities are almost endless and can accommodate your schedule! </span><br />
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<span class="fullpost">Make a difference in a local kid's life; and chances are, there's a Club close to you!</span><br />
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<span class="fullpost"><b>Club locations:</b></span><br />
<span class="fullpost"><b> </b></span><span class="fullpost">Mabee Red Shield:</span><br />
<span class="fullpost">1231 North Harvard</span><br />
<span class="fullpost">Tulsa, OK 74115</span><br />
<span class="fullpost"><br />North Mabee:<br />3001 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. <br />Tulsa, OK 74106</span><br />
<span class="fullpost"><br />West Mabee:<br />2143 South Olympia<br />Tulsa, OK 74107</span><br />
<span class="fullpost"><br />Broken Arrow: <br />1400 West Washington<br />Broken Arrow, OK 74012</span><br />
<span class="fullpost"><br />Sand Springs:<br />4403 South 129th West Ave.<br />Sand Springs, OK 74063 </span><br />
<span class="fullpost"><br />Sapulpa:<br />1721 South Hickory<br />Sapulpa, OK 74066</span><br />
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<span class="fullpost">If you are interested in volunteering or for
additional information contact Jenny McElyea, Volunteer and Disaster
Resource Manager at 918 587 780, Jenny_McElyea@uss.salvationarmy.org or
visit www.volunteertulsa.org to register!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjIwHnegB4FIy1hu9WReVn9M5oLe48xiYGT4DTpowdbm__0TnvYgdhVRkrlNldWLu3k_ratt69Q-calHvbIdQzpOmZ6E2ioAAGL-h1sYoqhAxEouYZGJbUB_UfTbS_kbXLp-NlrXVBbdir/s1600/Jenny%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjIwHnegB4FIy1hu9WReVn9M5oLe48xiYGT4DTpowdbm__0TnvYgdhVRkrlNldWLu3k_ratt69Q-calHvbIdQzpOmZ6E2ioAAGL-h1sYoqhAxEouYZGJbUB_UfTbS_kbXLp-NlrXVBbdir/s1600/Jenny%255B1%255D.jpg" /></a></div>
<span class="fullpost">-Jenny </span><br />
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</span>Vicki Thornehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15232487594984432057noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-669739600082390997.post-3983985378884467822013-08-13T16:22:00.000-05:002013-08-13T16:24:54.583-05:00Back to School!<span class="fullpost">Some of our Boys & Girls Club kids were selected from each of our 6 area Clubs to go on a Back to School shopping spree, on August 1st! Thanks to Target and Academy Sports for the gift cards and shopping help! We so appreciate your generosity!</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUzxVOoImDkRM7yRP08ekUhegTk4iFwWkAbkUADiuehnC7bIpaPxp4gdLPACcIuwpNybUFFO_nhHZeCbKBE3cS7Y8AOGhyHjJYG3Se-1JxAk5ZTYJvf4oPyAo-Ps2b7__vhDuEK7X23EIR/s1600/Academy+vols.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUzxVOoImDkRM7yRP08ekUhegTk4iFwWkAbkUADiuehnC7bIpaPxp4gdLPACcIuwpNybUFFO_nhHZeCbKBE3cS7Y8AOGhyHjJYG3Se-1JxAk5ZTYJvf4oPyAo-Ps2b7__vhDuEK7X23EIR/s320/Academy+vols.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Picking out uniforms!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnZHkQiaBItxFNKX4AM-asoAiMnsDTO64LSifO1H8JHKfjNewCOR7FVtQw8YevjPMP5MXk4tZuoVCTwyK6ei3RRZn0Edz1qT0XjfpEaJywqeQ-7bNcHaDFSu-mGcSFDQrzRHxbO3TRgB1L/s1600/IMG_0378.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnZHkQiaBItxFNKX4AM-asoAiMnsDTO64LSifO1H8JHKfjNewCOR7FVtQw8YevjPMP5MXk4tZuoVCTwyK6ei3RRZn0Edz1qT0XjfpEaJywqeQ-7bNcHaDFSu-mGcSFDQrzRHxbO3TRgB1L/s320/IMG_0378.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shopping!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG9t9mMh4JW9Omhj1VaQUNvtQE93uDNv0uIFiWTBnWeN-h0Z76NYhIupFPr8XgWhYVgHY5F7VfZNKld7IBP_bcMUZlYGfKvW76OU0RioTEdnnrca1_HaceqoSCUFDzSbAd0US_BRmYBHZu/s1600/IMG_0392.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG9t9mMh4JW9Omhj1VaQUNvtQE93uDNv0uIFiWTBnWeN-h0Z76NYhIupFPr8XgWhYVgHY5F7VfZNKld7IBP_bcMUZlYGfKvW76OU0RioTEdnnrca1_HaceqoSCUFDzSbAd0US_BRmYBHZu/s320/IMG_0392.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What a haul!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_JX0ebuJ6NRz_3dUETms_ZYmNFij02gD0NhSxhOmbv9R3tK8mJtOSynYbnHweFH0IDTbVa-3UazoBfn3c2dCRY-UVHfYr4XaUWa11EBGf42MH6HGKuBuj3PuNox0gP-LXABq5i7OlJ94u/s1600/IMG_0396.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_JX0ebuJ6NRz_3dUETms_ZYmNFij02gD0NhSxhOmbv9R3tK8mJtOSynYbnHweFH0IDTbVa-3UazoBfn3c2dCRY-UVHfYr4XaUWa11EBGf42MH6HGKuBuj3PuNox0gP-LXABq5i7OlJ94u/s320/IMG_0396.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Checking out at Target</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb2QgcA1LmMtZT9ke2W5mLX_q9W-hO0LYDZRdNfs33sAttwVho__94EnrLU9qluxfvtOSduHqMY5E6wBHxKjZYtUZ8aW2FMEUYkZMftmvMhvcbYe3UbQ-z9_n7LvYkWEADInwWGvJeR92R/s1600/IMG_0397.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb2QgcA1LmMtZT9ke2W5mLX_q9W-hO0LYDZRdNfs33sAttwVho__94EnrLU9qluxfvtOSduHqMY5E6wBHxKjZYtUZ8aW2FMEUYkZMftmvMhvcbYe3UbQ-z9_n7LvYkWEADInwWGvJeR92R/s320/IMG_0397.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yay for post-shopping snacks!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7RSCaA4Bk2mP4s2JBzIAWL-V2XtmZowKMC8yLo-HHy0BRNpSSs08UmVqgnjuQPGxwDFBTTBDHdhoOLDEVsDoLWFcGiXjlr7sTEnTUVy4ik7e0LqLGrAq7RovOA1_ub646EHkkMRazH9QJ/s1600/IMG_0398.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7RSCaA4Bk2mP4s2JBzIAWL-V2XtmZowKMC8yLo-HHy0BRNpSSs08UmVqgnjuQPGxwDFBTTBDHdhoOLDEVsDoLWFcGiXjlr7sTEnTUVy4ik7e0LqLGrAq7RovOA1_ub646EHkkMRazH9QJ/s320/IMG_0398.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Popcorn makes us happy!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU_mA_1Y-pyLA8i6Y2gFnEf0Hagmq3FqmZ4gk8xPfwoKfoJtuBW2pirQq0Jc7okAFDrE4agk88ZvzagOsU1oGaQgHQ2c53rjkCsDbiPpileYpmWaLtFJOC0yosaX9junocUxdzvlFxYwee/s1600/IMG_0409.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU_mA_1Y-pyLA8i6Y2gFnEf0Hagmq3FqmZ4gk8xPfwoKfoJtuBW2pirQq0Jc7okAFDrE4agk88ZvzagOsU1oGaQgHQ2c53rjkCsDbiPpileYpmWaLtFJOC0yosaX9junocUxdzvlFxYwee/s320/IMG_0409.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A tired shopper is done for the day</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoj8Mdj2P_aGK9UeEPtYzcwAq9SsXDKjgWUeWvevOMb8fXB5bFC5dIoDtjIvOnRXg60ESjsX-mFxmYypgg1llknUQKFXM2Cw0bvz9SNg_MJXuuuFwcsXuyTFYxZqv7jUDAzmMQotDEmlIE/s1600/IMG_0410.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoj8Mdj2P_aGK9UeEPtYzcwAq9SsXDKjgWUeWvevOMb8fXB5bFC5dIoDtjIvOnRXg60ESjsX-mFxmYypgg1llknUQKFXM2Cw0bvz9SNg_MJXuuuFwcsXuyTFYxZqv7jUDAzmMQotDEmlIE/s320/IMG_0410.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yay Target!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj03XK5-zxwVffH59V8f7ZbjomtgqMYC2CzYznpI9xSmaW3AM2MxFRrc2dLi0IWKvZNYqSgn-HpUNo-RXyXmQJRPKJ4r83jE5JTXnvS7tbdFseB1bLeaENuIrbrAXaVPbfHoAiTn1pjNb2b/s1600/IMG_0416.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj03XK5-zxwVffH59V8f7ZbjomtgqMYC2CzYznpI9xSmaW3AM2MxFRrc2dLi0IWKvZNYqSgn-HpUNo-RXyXmQJRPKJ4r83jE5JTXnvS7tbdFseB1bLeaENuIrbrAXaVPbfHoAiTn1pjNb2b/s320/IMG_0416.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Silly kids are happy for new school supplies!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<span class="fullpost"> Looks like these kiddos are ready for school! </span><br />
<span class="fullpost">-Vicki</span>Vicki Thornehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15232487594984432057noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-669739600082390997.post-8872561294200720002013-08-08T14:05:00.000-05:002013-08-08T14:05:05.181-05:00Pancake Breakfast Reveals Clubs’ Impact on Youth<h3>
An early morning United Way fundraising event gives us an inside view of the Boys & Girls Clubs in action...</h3>
Getting up at 4:30am to flip pancakes for a bunch of kids at the Broken Arrow Boys & Girls Club was something that didn’t really appeal to me. Don’t get me wrong: I love pancakes, sausage and kids. It was the 4:30am wake-up call that hurt. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL9Ky5uuNLaW9ZAfaBv7HvXevqdcfSRACq_iaKCuExo7JUE2h5PraJDhhaIf5hv4vN_hrQ1CM4Ph7Up2kTGlBUo1S2PRyDP1McIO1ky-ceg8sRpbaJx6PnNXFw5bClLvhbEQJDgrPNBLrj/s1600/TAUW_LiveUnited_2012_partner%2528web%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="177" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL9Ky5uuNLaW9ZAfaBv7HvXevqdcfSRACq_iaKCuExo7JUE2h5PraJDhhaIf5hv4vN_hrQ1CM4Ph7Up2kTGlBUo1S2PRyDP1McIO1ky-ceg8sRpbaJx6PnNXFw5bClLvhbEQJDgrPNBLrj/s200/TAUW_LiveUnited_2012_partner%2528web%2529.jpg" width="200" /></a>We were having a pancake breakfast for Club members to raise money for the United Way. The kids started arriving at 7am, so we had to start cooking early. The aroma of pancakes and sausages attracted three young girls that we couldn’t get out of the kitchen. But while they enjoyed hanging out with the “older girls,” we learned a lot about their summer experience at the Club. <br />
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<span id="goog_400158214"></span><span id="goog_400158215"></span>12-year-old Corrin, 10-year-old Madeline and 9-year-old Isabella never met before this summer. They are different ages and go to different schools. But they say they’re now friends for life and don’t look forward to saying good-bye to their summer at the Club.<br />
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“I will have to bring a lot of Kleenex next Friday, our last day,” says Corrin.<br />
“Yeah, these people are like family to me,” says Isabella.<br />
“These people are my family,” Corrin says.</blockquote>
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Yet, they’ve only known each other for a few months. The girls say the experiences they’ve shared and the day-to-day conversations and interactions have made the summer of 2013 one to remember. For Corrin, the best part of summer camp was going horseback riding at Sequoyah Stables. Isabella enjoyed going to Incredible Pizza while Madeline loved Frontier City Amusement Park. <br />
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After cooking about 100 pancakes, I took a peek inside the Club’s gymnasium and started to understand why these kids were having so much fun. The kids were in different groups: some were taking turns shooting baskets. The smaller kids hopped on scooters and played chase on the other side of the gym. Some of the girls sat in the stands talking to each other. I counted about seven different groups doing different things, but all had one thing in common: they were smiling, having a good time and were entertained.<br />
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Thanks to me and a few of my co-workers, they were also full of pancakes and sausage.<br />
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I often talk to people about what our Boys & Girls Clubs do for our kids, but I don’t always get a chance to see that in action. Getting a glimpse of why Corrin, Madeline and Isabella say this was “the best summer ever” made that 4:30am wake-up call not so bad after all. <br />
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-Carrie <br />
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Vicki Thornehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15232487594984432057noreply@blogger.com0