Townwest Sertoma Club


2010	Mrs. Anna F. Brown Tulsa County News Tulsa, Oklahoma Anna Brown is an editor/reporter for a small newspaper who brings the community and service organizations to their feet through personal contacts and stories. She has gone the extra mile to help local people get the stories out about their activities and projects. Doing the job doesn't really fit the description of Anna, who often runs from one event to another six days a week. She personally attends banquets, sports events, community functions and business related activities every week to make sure they are covered. Her schedule often includes putting off family needs so the community news gets covered. Anna's relationship with the Townwest Tulsa Sertoma Club started when she was hired as a reporter for the Tulsa County News in 1997. She covered events and fundraisers. Every Townwest Club sponsorship activity received a special story to let the community know what Sertoma was doing. When club officers needed to get the word out about an activity she has always been ready to help. Her special attention to the club has been a big part of the club's success. Her professional career started in 1972 when she received a B.A. degree from the San Jose State College in Journalism. She trained in the VISTA program right after graduation and worked as a VISTA volunteer in Washington D. C. She came to Oklahoma in 1974 to work as Editor of the Wewoka Times and continued with newspaper reporting at the McAlester Democrat, Edmond Sun, Broken Arrow Ledger, Tulsa Public Schools and the Tulsa County News. She has been an active member of the Women in Communications, Sigma Delta Chi Fraternity, Oklahoma School Public Relations Association, National School Public Relations Association and Tulsa City Council Parent Teacher Association. Anna has taught seminars and workshops, produced newcomer brochures and assisted with the writing of the local history book for Southwest Tulsa expected to be published in 2011. Anna is a single parent who had two daughters. When one of her daughters died several years ago Anna took over parenting of her grandson. During the ordeal she continued to attend meetings and functions in the community and make sure the news of the day was reported as needed. Her grandson is growing and Anna is still working at the job and at parenting again. She will be retiring next year and is planning to continue many of the community relationships started as a reporter and continued as a friend. As Anna nears retirement she has given a little print space to thoughts of her career. She has recalled the time she was covering a high school football game on the sidelines and was concentrating on taking notes. The play shifted to her side of the field and an outside sweep brought many of the players to the sideline… the same sideline she was at. The collision of muscles, colors and pads took place right in front of her and the players continued right onto her, finally crashing over the top of her. Anna's notes were sketchy from that point on, but she stayed near the action. After that game she found a better observation point and kept one eye on the field of play. In the Oklahoma ice storm of December 2007 Anna tells the story of trying to meet her deadline while moving from office to office where the electrical power was temporarily restored. She was able to get most of her stories written through a strong determination to finish. Her editor had to come to her rescue one evening as she fought her computer keyboard to record the strokes. The semi-frozen computer keyboard had a sticking key that threw off her rhythm and caused her a few hours of frustration. Anna's story assignments took her one time to a nearby homeless camp on the Arkansas riverbank. An old man doing his best to survive talked with Anna about his situation and life on the river. She loaned him her cell phone to make a couple of calls. One of those calls was to his grandson. The grandson later called Anna and told her he came and picked up his grandpa. The old military veteran who had fallen on hard times was assisted by family after they learned about his situation through the phone call on the reporter's phone. The story about the homeless veteran was never published. Anna felt it was much better to let the story rest and not be told. If Townwest is successful in recruiting Anna as a member after she retires we will gain a new friend and active Sertoman. She has proven she has the heart of a Sertoman through her giving and sacrifices. We would be proud to have this Service to Mankind recipient as a new club member.
2009	Mr. Timothy Scott "Tim" Nall We B Trees / B Haulin Tulsa, Oklahoma 74107 Timothy Scott "Tim" Nall owner of the We B Trees Company in Tulsa, Oklahoma is an outstanding example of the Service to Mankind recipient. Tim runs the highly competitive business and spends many hours doing volunteer work for the Tulsa community. He knows the value of hard work and dedication to the community. Tim graduated from the Oklahoma State University with a Bachelors degree in Urban Forestry and worked for several companies as an operational engineer. He worked for the City of Tulsa in the Urban Forestry Department where he became a Certified Arborist through the International Society of Arboriculture. He started his own part-time business in 1980. In 1995 he and Barbara started their own business with their two sons. In 2000 they formed their company We B Trees. They provide quality professional service in tree and plant health care. Their company logo is built around the family orientation of the business. On December 10, 2007 eastern Oklahoma was hit hard with an ice storm that devastated the City of Tulsa and surrounding communities. Thousands of trees were downed or broken. The city was without electrical power for days. Many homes, including elderly residents, were left without power as trees ripped through their houses, tore power service boxes off the side of the house and dropped limbs on roadways. The city was crippled and a state of emergency was called by officials. Tim was one of two arborists called by the mayor for a crisis task force to deal with the situation. He helped develop a response plan and advised city officials on how to deal with the storm destruction. Most of his time was donated to the city to help get residents and businesses back on their feet again. Many years ago the Tulsa Up With Trees program began under the guidance of Mayor Rodger Randall. The non-profit organization plants and cares for trees in city rights of way and other public places. Tim has been a long-time supporter of the program. He has developed and taught many educational programs for Up With Trees volunteers and staff. Executive Director Anna America cites Tim as a significant financial sponsor and fundraiser for the organization. He has donated many hours planting and pruning, as well as removing trees and stumps. Tim has also taught the organization's Citizen Forrester classroom program for years. He is on the City of Tulsa's Tree Advisory Committee giving advice on the maintenance and management of the city's thousands of trees. The local boy scouts has been another recipient of Tim Nall's generous community support. Tim has been involved as a leader and trainer for the Indian Nations Council of the boy scouts for years. He is known as the "Camp Cook", and also serves as an instructor in nature topics and climbing training. He runs the Boy Scout Troop 66 "Annual Rock Climbing Camp-out". This one event involves setting up all of the climbing and rappelling lines and monitoring safety for the event. Tim's community involvement has been passed on to his family. His son Ethan reached his Eagle Scout status with a project he designed and implemented. The project was developing a plan for pruning existing trees and planting new ones at an Up With Tree site at a local elementary school. The Townwest Sertoma Club has been recipient of Tim Nall's community support through his company. Townwest Sertomans volunteered their service to the Southwest Tulsa Community Chamber in 2008 to prepare newly acquired property for renovation as a community support center. The chamber obtained the property with three houses and two metal buildings. Two of the houses were in very poor condition and required complete gutting of plaster walls, plumbing, heating and electrical equipment. One metal building and the third house had to be completely demolished and removed from the site. Townwest members removed and recovered all of the recyclable materials from the metal building and third house with the assistance of Tim Nall. He supplied large roll-off dumpsters throughout the process. When the Townwest members had recovered all of the materials they could, Tim brought in his crews and equipment to finish the job. He personally supervised and worked with the crews as they pulled down the remaining structures, ground them up and hauled them away. Through this one project Tim provided over $6,000.00 in valuable time, equipment and services to the club. With Tim's help the Townwest Club was able to complete the job and the club received recognition in the media and community for their efforts. They would not have been able to complete the job without Tim's support. The Southwest Tulsa Community Chamber has also benefitted from Tim's kind help. During a renovation project for the community, the chamber took on a challenge to upgrade a significant piece of property on Southwest Boulevard, the Historic Route 66, through the City of Tulsa. Tim brought his tree crews and equipment to the site, pruned trees and shrubs and chipped the debris leaving the site in a much better condition and more pleasing to the Route 66 travelers. Tim helped the newly formed Route 66 Station Village Council as they worked to install the tallest derrick in North America. Construction crews were hired to fabricate the derrick kit onsite. When they were finished on August 13, 2009 many pieces of the derrick stairs remained due to city regulations that did not allow access to the derrick. The Council was faced with opening the site with piles of heavy steel at the foot of the derrick. Tim brought his equipment to the site and moved all of the steel to a secure and out-of-site location. His work allowed the site to be safely dedicated by state and local officials on October 16, 2009. Chamber and community volunteers cut brush and trees on the Route 66 Station Village site in October of 2009 to clear the way for future construction of historic structures. As they cleared the trees they piled them near the parking lot. Tim brought his crews and equipment to the site, chipped the downed trees and brush and left the site in pristine condition. His support has continued to impress the community workers and has inspired them to step up and volunteer. Community leaders and volunteers know they can count on Tim to be there when needed. Jennifer Barcus-Schafer, Executive Director of the Rebuilding Tulsa Together organization cited Tim Nall in April of 2009 for providing roll-off dumpsters to their organization for their cleanup day. They provided over 300 volunteers making repairs to homeowners and Tim provided the dumpsters for their project. He has been a continuing supporter of their organization through his We B Haulin branch of the company. Tim Nall has been a leading supporter of community projects for many years. He has influenced the lives of hundreds of boy scouts, given non-profit organizations a boost in times of need, and given direction to city and government agencies free of charge. He is well-known in the Tulsa area for his energetic and enthusiastic approach to tackling small and large jobs. Sertomans are just one of the beneficiaries of Tim Nall and his companies. We are proud to have Tim Nall as our 2009 Townwest Sertoma Club Service to Mankind nominee.
2008	Mr. Glenn Lyles Glenn Lyles was born in West Tulsa, Oklahoma in 1919 in a neighborhood built for oil refinery and railroad workers. Glenn's family, like others around them, lived through the hard times before and during the Great Depression. He joined the United States Army on 10 December 1944, three years after the attack on Pearl Harbor. The bus ride from Tulsa to Fort Sill, Oklahoma was the first of many trips he would make as a soldier. From Fort Sill he went to other training assignments in the states and then shipped out to Europe. Glenn was assigned to the 75^th Infantry Division in support of the Division Surgeon. He traveled through Glasgow, Scotland; Wales and Southampton, England and LeHarve, France to join the division for duty. The division supported the 3^rd Army during the Battle of the Bulge that took place in Ardennes, Belgium, Luxembourg and Germany from December 16, 1944 to January 25, 1945. Glenn's division surgeon assignment was important to the military operation that is often described as the bloodiest battle of World War II for the U. S. The 19,000 Americans killed during the battle posted a toll higher than any other battle. He returned home from the service January 10, 1946. Glenn continued his service by joining other fellow World War II veterans in Tulsa. They formed a speakers bureau to present their experiences to schools and groups interested in World War II. The group has made many presentations and received over a thousand thank you letters for their work. Glenn has been a lifelong member of the West Tulsa United Methodist Church. He has watched the community around the church age and change character. One thing that hasn't changed is the church's outreach mission to the people around the church. Six years ago Glenn approached the church members with the idea of starting a semi-annual breakfast to bring people back to the neighborhood that had been completely wiped out by the urban renewal of the 1970's. He started by personally calling all the old neighbors of West Tulsa. Many old timers came back for the early West Tulsa Roundup breakfasts. Each year Glenn has personally called many people and sent reminder letters. The semi-annual breakfasts have continued to bring together people who once ran along dusty paths, and rode bicycles on the unpaved and semi-paved streets. Hundreds have benefitted from the work Glenn has done right at home, in the neighborhood he grew up in many years ago. It has been many years since Glenn embarked on his journey. He has crossed a lot of paths and made many friends. He has accomplished a lot, given beyond measure, and certainly made a difference in a way that Sertomans can relate to.
2007	Mrs. Linda Fitzgerald Linda Fitzgerald is a name that most "Westsiders" know. The reason they know her is because she has been a prominent figure in serving and promoting the westside for many years. Linda is Past-President of Southwest Tulsa Chamber of Commerce. She is a busy realtor who finds time to serve the west side areas of Tulsa through many organizations. She is a member of the Red Fork Main Street Association and a member of the Red Fork Derrick Planning Committee. She is a 1964 graduate of Webster High School and a member of the Webster Alumni Foundation Board. In her spare time she aids her mother and tirelessly promotes the westside community.
2006	Honorable Carl Funderburk Tulsa County Court Judge Tulsa County Judge Carl Funderburk is no stranger to Sertoma. He was working as the Westside YMCA Director in the 1990's and attending law school. During this time he served as the Townwest Sertoma President. The club accomplished many goals during his term. After graduation from the University of Tulsa Law School Carl joined the Tulsa County District Attorney's Office for a while before accepting a position as a judge in the juvenile court system. He was promoted to Special District Judge in the Tulsa County Court and serves in that capacity. Judge Funderburk started a program of on-site court at the Tulsa State Fair. He holds court at the fair where persons arrested appear before him for immediate hearing on their charges. Judge Funderburk honored the Townwest and Southside Sertoma Clubs as a guest speaker at a recent Tulsa Area Law Awards banquet.
2005	Mr. Richard Ryan Williams Companies Founding member of the Daniel Webster Alumni Association, Southwest Tulsa Education Initiative and other groups promoting Southwest Tulsa. Richard has served multiple terms as a board member and officer of the very active Southwest Tulsa Chamber of Commerce. He has guided these organizations through the tough startup times and laid the foundation for success. His untiring work was done while leading more than one organization at a time. The Southwest Tulsa community has benefitted from his leadership.
2004	Mr. Bill Pittman Owner/Operator of Dooley Pharmacy Very active in promoting a reduced rate drug program for those in need of prescription drugs. Long-time officer and supporter of the Reed Park Recreation Center Group. Mr William Huston Pittman, known to his friends as "Bill", has been an active member of our community for many years. He has been the owner of Dooley Pharmacy for over 40 years and has dedicated his life to helping others. He lives in a Historic Yorktown neighborhood in Tulsa, Oklahoma and has donated his home to the University of Kansas. His resume is impressive as an active member of Boston Avenue Methodist Church, treasurer of the Reed Park Advisory Council, board member of the Western Neighbors for over 7 years, past board member of the Southwest Tulsa Chamber of Commerce and past Vice-President of the Oklahoma Pharmacists Association. His awards are : Tulsa Park & Recreation Council Oak Award, University of Kansas 50 year Alumni Award and the Southwest Tulsa Chamber Community Spirit Award. His hobbies are gardening, weight lifting, and driving his new red Ford Mustang. He has three daughters and four grandchildren. If you need a volunteer you can always depend on Bill for a contribution of time and money. Bill Pittman is a true community leader.
2003	Mr. Jim & Mrs. Joyce Reeves Joyce and Jim Reeves live in the Cherry Hills Mobile Home Park in Southwest Tulsa. In fourteen and a half months of managing the mobile home park they have cleaned up the park. They encouraged in a dignified (but "follow the rules" way) to clean up the area so as not to look like a low-grade park. Along the Arkansas River people tell of how Joyce and Jim have urged people to speak without vulgarity and to ask what individuals might do together to make this area a better place to live. The mobile home park was a dark, frightening place to live after sunset before the Reeves started making improvements. They have not only lighted and cleaned up the area, they have landscaped and planted flowers. A shelter for rainy days has been provided for the school children at the bus stop. A recreational area and playground has also been established for residents to enjoy. Jim and Joyce Reeves are so organized. They directly manage 279 living spaces, patrolling the area to assure safety and smooth operation. They take time to be friends to all and check on those who are sick. Joyce and Jim are very Christian people. They are very worthy of the recognition of the Townwest Service to Mankind Award.
2002	Mrs. Peggy Machlan Founding Co-chair of the Southwest Tulsa Block Party and Active Member of the National Association of Women in Construction. Peggy Machlan and husband Bob have been long-time community supporters. They owned the Southwest Tulsa business Rogers Glass Company until recently when they retired to spend time with family and traveling. Peggy has been an active member of the National Association of Women in Construction where she chaired educational training sessions for kids, participated in fundraisers for the organization and was the group's liaison with the community for years. She played an active role in the Southwest Tulsa Chamber of Commerce as an officer, board member and committee member. While serving the chamber she co-chaired the City of Tulsa's largest community block party. The block party in Reed Park was started in the early 1990's and continues to be the largest in the city. Peggy was one of the chamber's representatives who founded the Southwest Tulsa Historical Society in 1992. She helped the organization grow and continue monthly meetings for 10 years. The organization continues to be a positive part of the westside community.
2001	Mr. Roy Heim Tulsa Police Officer, Member of the National Disaster Mortuary Operational Response Team Roy A. Heim is a detective with the Tulsa Police Department and Past-President of the Association for Crime Scene Reconstruction. He designed a template for impact analysis of bloodstains and projectiles to help with the conviction of criminals. He is a founding member and continuing President of the Southwest Tulsa Historical Society in 1992. As a board member of the Southwest Tulsa Chamber of Commerce he motivated our community by arranging a partnership between the University of Oklahoma Urban Design Studio and the Southwest Tulsa Chamber to create a vision plan for the Southwest Tulsa area. He is a past member and past president of the Townwest Sertoma Club. Roy has been married to his "lovely and talented wife" Sherry (his words) for 16 years, has two sons Rick and Mike, and a dog Carbon, their black lab. Sherry and Roy work as a team in many of the clubs and organizations to which they belong. The work as a team in responding to catastrophies with the National Disaster Mortuary Operational Response Team. They enjoy playing golf and a weekly game of pinochle with friends. Roy established the Sertoma Law Enforcement Awards Program co-sponsored by Townwest and Southside Sertoma Clubs, held annually since 1989. He founded and has chaired the Southwest Tulsa Historical Society since 1992. His concern about a dangerous entrance ramp on I-244 was spearheaded into a new, safer entrance ramp being completed in 2002. Roy Heim participated in the collection and identification of bodies at the Oklahoma City Bombing site in 1995, the crash of the Korean Airlines Flight 801 in Guam in 1997, and was most recently among many people who were activated to assist with the recovery and identification of victims at the World Trade Center in New York City after the terrorist attack on September 11, 2001. Roy is the first to volunteer when something needs to be done, both with time and money. He is the most compassionate, caring person you will ever meet and the Townwest Sertoma Club is proud to award him our Service to Mankind Award.
2000	Mrs. JoAnn Childers 6871 W 35 Pl Tulsa, Oklahoma 74107 446-9518 Jo Ann Childers has lived in and served the Berryhill, Oklahoma community for the past 25 years. She has been a volunteer and supporter of every area of her community from the school system, church, and community center, to elder care, voting inspector, and student tutor. Mrs. Childers has raised her family and served her community in a most selfless fashion and is a valuable asset to both her family and community. Mrs. Childers has been an active volunteer worker in the Berryhill School System serving in the PTO leadership roles, as a homeroom helper and sport booster club member. She has tutored junior high students in reading for 10 years and remains in contact with some students, some of whom admit without hesitation that they would never have graduated had it not been for her. Mrs. Childers served as "Meals on Wheels" coordinator for the west side for 20 years, where she not only delivered meals but acted as confidante for the elderly making sure that heating, cooling, and living conditions were adequate. She also serves as volunteer treasurer for the Berryhill Community Center and inspector for the Berryhill voting precinct for the past 10 years, a position she continues to hold. Mrs. Childers has been an active member of the View Acres Baptist Church where she has taught the Fellowship Class for the past 22 years. She has also served as church treasurer, and has held many committee positions including Benevolence Committee where she makes certain that no member of the community goes without clothes, food, transportation, or any need that may arise as a result of a financial burden. Mrs. Childers has gone as far as to provide clothing, school supplies and athletic supplies for students who could not afford them. Jo Ann Childers is a proud parent of three children and four grandchildren whom she supports in all activities. She has served in all the above mentioned capacities with humility, never asking for anything in return. She is the type of individual who deserves recognition for a job well-done.
1999	Dr. Richard Presley Founder of youth oriented spiritual support organization Presley Richard Optometrist and One Eighty youth group 021099 Oneighty Large facility being built for large youth group By SUSAN JAKOBSEN Tulsa World 2/10/1999 The largest youth group in the West Tulsa area is getting new digs to accommodate its ever-growing membership. Members of team oneighty west, a group that first met four years ago at a Rolling Oaks home, converge near a large red, blue and white tent at 5310 W. 41st St., about 6 p.m., every Wednesday evening. About 150 teens from Webster, Berryhill and Clinton schools eat popcorn, play basketball and listen to music for an hour or so before climbing on buses bound for Church on the Move near 129th East Avenue and Interstate 44. There, they participate in a church service and learn about the Lord. `It's quite a site,` said Richard Presley, who with his family established team oneighty west. `On a big night, we've had as many as 350-370.` The throng swells when students from Cleveland, Sapulpa and Sand Springs schools attend oneighty activities, usually once a month or so. Most oneighty teens are between the ages of 13 and 18. Presley and his wife, Martine, sons Samuel, 21, Chris, 19, twins Michael and Gabriel, 15, Nathan, 9, and daughter Hannah, 17, are the shepherds of a rapidly-growing flock. The family is spearheading the construction of a multi-level, permanent facility behind the large tent that will serve as a guest house for oneighty youth. Construction crews completed the framework for the basement last week. The 5,000-square-foot structure will include the basement, two levels, and an attic. It will consist of a meeting room, game room and a 4,000-square-foot double-decker porch around its parameter. The guest house will be constructed in segments, Presley said. `Our goal before the year is over is to take down the tent,` Presley said. Funding for the facility has come in the form of donations from private individuals and businesses. `Everything is paid for up to now. We're just paying as we go,` Presley said. Team oneighty west began under the name Skyscrapers. A few Berryhill students, mostly friends of the Presley children, met at the family's home at 3724 S. 74th West Place for fellowship before attending Church on the Move each Wednesday evening. Presley said he told his children, `I'll buy you pizza if you invite your friends.` Soon, the family was entertaining scores of students, enough that Church on the Move began sending a shuttle--then a bus--and eventually, a fleet of buses to transport them all to service. The group's name later became team oneighty west, a phrase which suggests `a complete change in direction,` Presley said. `We have 2,000 that have come once or more. Basically, this is all from the West side,` Presley said. Fitting hundreds of youth into the Presley home became physically impossible. Through many people's gifts, the family was able to purchase 22 acres of land on West 41st Street in March 1998, Presley said. Overgrown with brush, it took several months to remove thick vegetation. Once the land was cleared, a tent was pitched, and team oneighty west began meeting at this site in September 1998. Basketball courts and sand volleyball pits were added to provide recreation, and a paved driveway also serves as a skating trail. Many youths in West Tulsa welcome the facility, which provides a social meeting point and encourages constructive activities in an entertaining environment. Brandon Williford, 14, moved to West Tulsa from Beggs, Okla., and said he started coming to oneighty meetings after he heard about the group from his friends. `I liked it, and I started going. I ended up getting rededicated,` Williford said. Last Wednesday, several youth from team oneighty west staged a drama, where they shocked the crowd by drinking curdled milk and a very suspicious yellow substance. The crowd watched in horror as one member put the milk carton to his lips and chunks--actually cottage cheese--passed into his mouth. Making the wrong choices through drugs and alcohol was represented by the eating and drinking of spoiled food. It demonstrated how we often make bad choices instead of following Christ, Presley said. Bonnie Bradley, 15, of Berryhill, has been involved with oneighty since she was in sixth grade. Bradley serves as a greeter. She welcomes youths when they climb off buses which have transported them from various schools. `I make them feel like this is a good place to go, and be friendly to them. I show them God's love,` Bradley said. Deon Walker, 16, attends Washington High School and has been participating in oneighty for about six months. He said the group has taught him a lot about how to conduct himself on a daily basis. `It teaches you about the Lord and how to use the Bible in everyday life,` Walker said. Presley said the soon-to-be guest house will be used exclusively for the ministry, and will give the West side a place for its youth. `There's just not that much for teen-agers to do, especially things that help them make the right choices and bring them to the Lord,` Presley said. When Church on the Move services are finished, buses bring team oneighty west members back to the acreage about 10 p.m. Many onlookers have probably witnessed the string of lights along West 41st Street as parents line up to fetch their sons and daughters. The example set by West-side youths is clicking with other Church on the Move members from greater Tulsa. In the last 18 months, buses began transporting youth groups from South Tulsa, Broken Arrow, Owasso and Catoosa to Church on the Move's Wednesday evening services. `They started doing the same thing. The idea of it started at our house in Rolling Oaks,` Presley said.
1998	Community Bank and Trust Company 2442 Southwest Boulevard Tulsa, Oklahoma 74107 Faithful Community Supporter for Non-Profit Groups, Schools and Community Organizations. If I only had more time, more money, more abilities I would reach out into my community and take care of some of the pressing needs I see passing before me. I would pick up those small children with the tattered clothes and taken them to try on durable outfits - outfits which would last between the holiday spirit spurts of goodness. I would put my arm
1997	Mrs. Keeta Straley Hicks Owner/Operator of Keeta's Hair Styling Annual Christmas Tree for needy children 5628 W Skelly Drive Tulsa, Oklahoma 74107 446-9125 Keeta's Tree a Dream Come True Margarett Zulpo Tulsa Community World 12/08/1993 As Keeta Hicks began "The Dream Tree" last year, she noticed the project made her sick father's eyes light up. Her father, George Straley, died last March of cancer. Last Christmas, when Hicks began collecting toys and food for the less fortunate, Straley refused to let go of life and stayed with Keeta to see her through her first big charity project. "My daddy had no savings and no income because he was such a generous man," Hicks said. "Some of my girls saw I was getting down so they made some baskets for my family, and it really touched us. That's when we thought of doing something for others." Hicks, who owns Keeta's Hairstyling at 5628 W. Skelly Drive, grew up in Oakhurst with five brothers and sisters. Her father and her mother, Dean, were known throughout the community for their generosity. "My father helped support my grandfather when he broke his back," Hicks said. "He was trying to support two families and never really had a good job until he went to work at Word Industries. He could fix anything." Straley's generosity extended to travelers down on their luck. He often took them home for a meal and some help repairing a broken down car. Hicks said, "We were raised with lots of love so we never knew we were poor. "I've always lived in West Tulsa. My first shop was in my home, and then I had a shop in Crystal City. My Town West shop has 3,000 square feet. "I plan on dying here. I love West Tulsa. "Daddy gave me the desire to go out of my way to help others. We want to make 'The Dream Tree' an annual event to help our neighbors." For the second year, Hicks and her son, Kenny, and her daughter, Christy, along with all her employees will help build 20 baskets for needy families. The baskets will contain canned food, staples, soap, clothing and toys. "We try to pick families that are going through something bad, you know, those people who won't ask for help or people who just get stuck. "Last year we found a lady whose husband had died. He didn't have any insurance, and she had five children. She was so happy that she could give her kids a Christmas." Hicks said sometimes you just bump into needy people. She recently came across a young boy who had tried to cut his own hair. "There are always the kids with so many family problems and no one cares," she said. "These are the people who grow up to be criminals so we have to help them when they are young." To help raise money to purchase items, Hicks and her employees held a Halloween costume contest for local kids. They will also have Santa visit the shop so kids can pose for a photo with Santa. Hicks also plans on having some Tulsa Oilers hockey players visit for an autograph signing party. Throughout this year, Hicks has been shopping for toys, socks, soap and other items when she can find them on sale. "It's difficult to keep up with everything," she said. "Last year, I didn't even finish my own Christmas shopping because of 'The Dream Tree.'" Any donations, canned goods and staples can be dropped off at Keeta's during business hours Monday through Saturday 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. "When daddy got cancer, I got discouraged and realized anyone can have a tragedy," Hicks said. "And with a family and employees like I have, I'll always know there are people who care. "They keep me and 'The Dream Tree' going."	Keeta Hicks (left) and her daughter, Christy Lawson
1997	Mrs. Mary Johnson Founder of Westside Widows and Widowers Group Widow uses loss of spouse to help others through grief 090600 By Juanita Crawford Muiga World Staff Writer Published: 9/6/2000 During a recent meeting at her home, retired Westside Widows-Widowers leader Mary Johnson, left, shared a special moment with Juanita Shaw-Nobles, a member who has been a major support to the organization.Community World staff photo by Juanita Crawford Muiga Community World staff photo by Juanita Crawford Muiga When Southwest Tulsa resident Mary Johnson lost her husband in 1982, the reality of losing a spouse hit home. after his death, she wanted to do something to help others who had lost their spouses, so she organized the Westside Widows-Widowers Support Group in 1993. She organized the group to bring happiness to others who had lost their spouses and as a way to relieve their suffering and pain. And that she did. She called 17 widows and widowers she personally knew and arranged to meet with them at West Regional Library, 2224 W. 51st St. Except for one member who is deceased, all of the original members are still with the group, Johnson said. Johnson said she and others in the group always greeted one another with a hug, and people began to expect the hugs. She recalled how she saw men and women who came to the meetings looking so sad. At each meeting, members open with a devotion and prayer and close with a friendship circle, hymn and prayer. Though mainly a support group, people did find each other. Johnson said nine marriages occurred within the group. After seven years of committed service to the Widows-Widowers Support Group, Johnson retired in July. Sitting on a sofa in her living room, Johnson wearing a purple pantsuit and sporting neatly styled white hair, had to stop and regain her composure when talking about the group. "It breaks my heart to give it up, but I have gone as far as I can go," Johnson said wiping tears from her eyes. Johnson isn't certain about the future of the group. Its continued existence is contingent upon a new leader, and so far, no one has volunteered for the job, Johnson said. Johnson named Juanita Shaw-Nobles and June Patterson as key supporters of the group. Nobles lost her husband in 1992 and joined the group that same year after seeing an advertisement in a flyer at West Tulsa's Reed Recreation Center, she said. In joining the group, Nobles found others she could identify with. "I felt like I was not alone - that there were people who could relate to me," she said. During this time the group was comprised mostly of women. If they wanted to cry they could cry, she said, adding that everyone was in the same boat. Johnson and her husband had enjoyed 43 years together; after losing him she found herself in a whole new world. Both she and Nobles talked about how difficult it was to function in this new world -- eating alone and doing things without their spouses. Noble said she didn't go out and eat alone for a long time. She felt like everyone was looking at her. Johnson still doesn't go out and eat alone but does dine out with friends. After losing a spouse it is necessary to form a routine to get along, she said. "As a widow, you have to make new friends, Johnson said. "It's kind of like starting all over again." Through the experience she learned that some friends of many years will neglect you when you lose a spouse. "The ones whom you thought were your closest friends will forget you," she said. "When you get to be 75 or 80 years old, it's the loneliest life when you're alone," Johnson said. "If I didn't have the Lord to lean on, I don't know what I would do." Before experiencing her own personal loss, Johnson had comforted others who had lost a spouse. During this time, she told them she knew what they were going through. "I had no concept of what they were going through until I lost my spouse," Johnson said. "It's got to be someone who has lost a spouse - who really understands and has the love and compassion for someone who has lost a spouse." Johnson's service to the organization has not gone by unnoticed. She has received a number of awards for her leadership in the group, including the Service to Mankind Award presented to her in 1995 by the Townwest Sertoma Club. Upon retirement, she received a citation from the state of Oklahoma for founding the Westside Widows-Widowers Group. Johnson also retired from the Southwest Tulsa Chamber of Commerce on July 11, after eight years of service. Though Johnson retired from her position as director of the group, she plans to continue counseling people, she said. The group will continue if someone volunteers to take it, she said. Members are not meeting at all, except for the social extension of the group that meets at the library. Hosted by Lil Clemons, Billie Moseley and Dale Collins, the group meets at the West Regional Library on the third Thursday of each month at 5:30 p.m. Concerned with finding a new leader for the group, Johnson said, "I wish the Lord would lay it on someone else's heart." For more information, call 446-8279. By Juanita Crawford Muiga World Staff Writer
1996	Mr. John Pojman Office of the Chief Medical Examiner Boy Scout leader, commander Townwest Sertoma Club 1996 and Regional Winner Service To Mankind Award Through John Pojman’s eyes you could see the best of times and the worst of times. His life’s work and volunteer services gives him a unique quality which many of us could only look at and wonder. Few, if any of us would actually like to change places with him. John’s early life was spent working at the old Tulsa Central Ambulance Service. He drove and worked during the “load and go” emergency transport years, before the new concepts of emergency health stabilization pushed to the front lines of care. Back then, patients were loaded on stretchers, given a quick fix of first aid and then rushed to the nearest hospital for treatment. John’s interest in serving people caused him to attend the early versions of paramedic training for ambulance drivers. He not only took the initial training, but became an instructor in this new method of caring for sick and injured people. Many of the earliest medics in Tulsa trained under John. The curriculum developed be Central Ambulance became a guide for expanded training and a national certification program for paramedics. During that time, John dedicated a lot of his spare time to raising his son Ian. He took to the ball field like many young fathers and coached his son and others for a number of years. Then changes took place in his life. The ambulance service changed in the early 80's. John’s life did too. He left his job at Central Ambulance Service in 1982 and started working for the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in January of 1983. His new assignment, medical investigator. Although there were some similarities in the jobs, there were also major differences. Quick encounters with families of sick loved ones turned to the most gravest of family tragedies. As a medical investigator John Pojman now was involved in the most intimate details of peoples lives. Losing loved ones comes infrequently to most of us. His job brought him to death’s door several times daily. Long hours and the toughest of life’s experiences started taking their toll on John as they have many others in the profession. He looked for something that would give him more positive views of life and people. In 1989 John found the door he was looking for. John started working with the cub scouts in 1989, first on the local level and then rapidly advancing to higher levels of service. His dual roles of cub leader and Commissioner brought new meaning to his personal life. He began seeing more positive images of people and their family relationships. John set out on a personal mission to help kids growing up. Part of his initial desire and motivation was seeing young Ian gaining personal pride in achieving goals, one step at a time. Another part was more broad. As he started working with the young scouts he saw young eyes start to twinkle. He saw drive and determination being born in weekly visits with the kids. He saw the reflection of life in the good mirror. All of these things had been lacking in his life before getting involved. John grew with his cub scouts. He advanced along with them to new levels of scouting and accomplishment. John, and others like him, went into elementary schools and helped younger leaders and cubs. His involvement in one mid-town school led to the creation of the first scouting program. That school’s program expanded and the school’s parent teacher’s program was reborn, along with other positive changes. Over the years, John has taken time out of his personal life to attend scouting functions with Ian and other troops. He has taken and presented programs for other leaders in scouting methods and programs. The thousands of hours John Pojman has spent working with young kids growing up have been very fulfilling he says. John is quick to point out the high percentages of successful people who came up through the scouting program. “Uniforms and money are no longer reasons for staying out of scouting” John says. “We have programs designed so the kids can do service work for their fees and uniforms. From the earliest involvement by kids and leaders alike, we stress service to the community.” John Pojman’s professional life leads him into the deepest of human emotions. His personal life takes him to the highest of levels as he dedicates his life to helping youngsters grow into successful adults. His dedication and accomplishments set him apart from most others in the community. It is with great honor that the members of the Townwest Sertoma Club nominate Mr. John Pojman for our Service to Mankind Award winner for 1996.
1995
1994	Mr. David Breed Executive Director of Western Neighbors, Southwest Tulsa Chamber, Westside Coalition. Executive Secretary of Southwest Tulsa Historical Society. Writer for Tulsa County News.
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1991	Mr. Robert "Bob" Sitter (Deceased 091407) 3713 W 44St Tulsa, Oklahoma 74107 446-4120 Robert "Bob" Sitter has served the West Tulsa area youth for over thirty years as a volunteer Boy Scout leader. He has been involved in scouting for thirty-three years even though he has had no children participating the last half of that time. Bob has received the following recognitions for his work with the scouts: Award of Merit - the highest district award in scouting Silver Beaver Award - Highest council award in scouting National President's Scoutmaster Award of Merit Special Award of Appreciation from the President of the Oklahoma State Senate and Speaker of the House of Representatives. Bob had trained fifteen Eagle Scout award winners. he is now training adult volunteer leaders for scouting. Bob is a sixty-four year old widower and father of four children. In addition to scouting he has been very active in the Red Fork Lions Club. He is the club treasurer and one of the most active club members in their community service projects. Bob is an excellent choice for the Service to Mankind Award because he volunteers to help others, not to gain personal recognition. He is a shy, warm, individual committed to serving others because "it is the right thing to do". SITTER Robert Guy obit 091607 Tulsa World Newspaper, September 16, 2007 SITTER - Robert Guy, Jr., 81, passed away September 14, 2007. He was retired from Texaco/Sinclair Oil Refinery. He was a longtime scout master for Boy Scout Troop 28 and a member of Red Fork Lions Club. Survived by: sons, Charles Sitter, Clyde Sitter and wife, Shelly, Carlton Sitter; sister, Maralyn Cooper and husband, Willard; grandchildren, Johnathan, Charles, Robert, Natalie and Allen Sitter. He was preceded in death by: wife, Bessie Sitter; and daughter, Carol Sitter. Service 2 p.m., Monday, September 17, 2007 at Mark Griffith Memorial Funeral Home's Westwood Chapel. Interment Floral Haven Cemetery. Mark Griffith-Westwood, (918) 446-0010.	"Bob Sitter receives the Red Fork Lions Club Life Membership, December 1999" Tulsa County News Bob Sitter receiving Boy Scouts Founders Award in 2003
1990	Mrs. Norma Meyers 1990 Service to Mankind winner Mrs. Norma Meyers Mrs. Norma Meyers 2325 S 61 W Ave Tulsa, Oklahoma 74107 The strength of caring communities is part of the foundation upon which our nation has been built. Common goals such as improving education, enhancing community services and planning for a brighter future are the adhesive that holds people together. An outstanding example of this spirit may be found in the small community of Berryhill, near Tulsa, Oklahoma. The central element for this community has always been the school system. A closer look finds one person who has touched the lives of many by bringing business, service organizations and the school together in a variety of ways. Her name is Norma Meyers. Norma was born in Illinois and grew up in Indiana, the baby daughter in a family of four children. Growing up in a large family was hectic. Norma enjoyed playing in the school band and participating in school activities. Sources indicate that Norma was a "tomboy" who liked to play football and be outdoors. After high school graduation in 1973 Norma met her future husband Bud Meyers. The two were married in 1975 and moved to Tulsa in 1982 with four preschool age boys. The Meyers family was complete with Billy, Bobby, Tommy and Danny. Now, while many people might have been lost in the laundry alone this energetic mom sought out ways to become involved in the school and community activities. The school system was then, the logical place to begin. Norma, in addition to serving in leadership roles in the homeroom helpers group, also became an active participant and leader in the local parent-teacher organization. She served two years as treasurer and then she assumed the presidency of the organization. Her hard work and ability to work well with people helped bring the parent-teacher organization to its present status as a strong supportive arm of the school system. Thousands of dollars have been put back into the classrooms in the form of materials and equipment because of fundraisers sponsored by the P.T.A. With an eye to the future, Norma recognized the need for increased training and hands-on computer time for students. When schools statewide were financially strapped and could not afford the luxury of a computer lab assistant, the Berryhill Schools were blessed with a volunteer computer assistant who organized the lab and monitored the students' computer time. With the poise of a seasoned diplomat, Norma has brought people from the business and education communities together in ways profitable to everyone. A major company in Tulsa, Memorex-Telex, was able to donate furniture and equipment much needed by the school. The Homeland program to provide computers to schools for saving cash receipts has been highly successful in Berryhill because Mrs. Meyers was willing to take on the job of adding the tapes, certainly no easy task. Norma's most recent efforts to bring together community resources is her organization of a recycling project with a local company. The students recycle, and in turn, the school receives educational materials from Hydro-Carbon Recyclers and Pride in Tulsa. Curriculum materials on environmental concerns have been made available and mini-grants were awarded for special projects. Last, but certainly not lease, when the school day is over, Norma is also active in the area scouting program. She has served as committee chairperson, den leader, and den leader coach. Helping students achieve their potential and bringing together the resources and people to enhance this process is certainly Mrs. Meyers "modus operandi". The people of the community of Berryhill certainly owe a debt of gratitude to a fine example of the American community service spirit. Because of Mrs. Meyers, many people have felt that "pulling together" that helps meet goals successfully. The Townwest Sertoma Club recognizes Mrs. Norma Meyers who so willingly serves the people in her own little part of the world.
1989	Mrs. Betty Gatliff (deceased) Betty Gatliff was the first coordinator of the Tulsa Police Department's Volunteers In Police Service (VIPS). She was tapped to help create the program in the 1980's. Through Betty's hard work and leadership she was able to build the new program into a lasting support organization involving hundreds of volunteers. The VIPS volunteers provided the Tulsa Police Department with many thousands of hours of work that resulted in officers being able to return to the street faster, and more often. Betty's enthusiasm and leadership was the key to the program working. She was always encouraging new volunteers and reaching new goals. Her work, and the VIPS program gained national recognition and a citation from the President of the United States. Ratliff Keim Betty Gage obit Tulsa World 092905 RATLIFF-KEIM -- Betty Gage, 78, passed away, Thursday, September 22, 2005, after a brief illness, at her home surrounded by her loving family and friends. Born November 20, 1926. She was raised in Roosevelt, OK. She graduated from the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma in Chickasha, OK and later received a Master's degree from the University of Tulsa. Betty was a long time resident of Tulsa. She was a devoted volunteer for the City of Tulsa Police Department for over 20 years, she began serving in 1981. She served as the Director of the Volunteers in Police Service for 10 years. She received many awards for her volunteer work including the Service to Mankind award from the Lion's Club, the Volunteer Coordinator of the Year for the City of Tulsa and a Presidential Citation for the Volunteer Program from President Reagan. The last 20 years of her life were dedicated to gardening, feeding the birds and squirrels and enjoying the outdoors. She is survived by: her husband, Dan Keim; and her only daughter, Alison LeMay of Edmond, OK; 3 grandchildren; and 2 great-grandchildren; her sister, Helen Moore of Roosevelt, OK; and 2 nieces. She will be greatly missed by all who have known her.
1988	Mrs. Lou Patrick Mrs. Lou Patrick was a long-time volunteer at Hillcrest Medical Center with her husband Rev. Ben Patrick. They worked at the hospital for many years in the 1960's and 1970's. Her husband was named for the Ben Patrick Hillcrest Pastoral Care Center at the hospital. Anyone involved in community projects will know that the greatest achievements are done by partners working together as the Patricks did at this Tulsa hospital. Margaret Zulpo of the Tulsa World gives a little light into the lasting affects of their great work. Body and Spirit // Pastoral Care Centers on Hillcrest Patients By Margarett Zulpo Tulsa Community World, Published: 6/1/1994 Spiritual help is always available at Hillcrest Medical Center because of a $2.5 million donation from the Donald W. Reynolds Foundation. The donation comes in memory of Donald W. Reynolds, founder of the Donrey Media Group. Reynolds' company owned 53 daily newspapers, 54 non-daily newspapers, five cable stations, a television station and 11 outdoor advertising companies. Reynolds' Foundation wanted to help the Pastoral Care Department, an integral part of Hillcrest's healing program. Chaplain Ron Nofziger, who heads the pastoral program, said the Reynolds family believed the spiritual care from Hillcrest employees gave him and his family extra support during a crisis. `Don (junior) courageously expressed how grateful he is to pastoral care,` Nofziger said. `This donation shows a great loving spirit on his part.` Hillcrest's Pastoral Care Department has been in existence since 1964 when it was started by Ben Patrick. The program involved representatives from Protestant, Catholic and Jewish congregations. `Hillcrest has always believed that a hospital should have a holistic approach to healing,` Nofziger said. `That includes a person's spiritual needs.` Patients and their families can call on one of the hospital's chaplains to discuss any aspect of their lives. Two full-time and 10 part-time chaplains provide 24-hour-a-day assistance. Nofziger said pastoral care is crucial when a patient feels anxious about treatment, receives a life-threatening diagnosis or when a patient dies. Lengthy hospital stays and out-of-town patients can also receive many benefits from daily chaplain talks. Chaplains are trained in clinical pastoral education which integrates theology, psychology and education. The course lasts 10 weeks and new chaplains are closely monitored with hospital patients, Nofziger said. `The remarkable development here is now we will have a perpetual chaplain program thanks to the current gift of the Reynolds Foundation,` he said. The chapel, which patients and families can visit at any time, has become a focal point to many who have visited or stayed at Hillcrest. Rebuilt a few years ago when the hospital was remodeled, the chapel contains a menorah (a symbol of Judaism), an altar and a pulpit to represent all western theologies. A modern stained glass window and an outside deck give the chapel more of a homey, relaxed ambience. Jerry Phillips, whose wife, Beverly, just had surgery at Hillcrest, said the chaplains visited with him several times. "We had been here only one hour when they visited us,` he said. They seem to be very special people." `You wouldn't expect that kind of caring in a hospital this size. I know both Chaplain Nofziger and Chaplain Archie Lawrence as friends. Archie took me to breakfast.` Phillips added the men spent an hour with him while Beverly was in surgery. `To me, that's a long time considering the amount of people they have to see. I believe they stay very busy.` Beverly is expected to make a full recovery. `We don't worry too much about what we do or say,` Nofziger said. `We make ourselves available to anyone, and we're there to meet their needs. `All we have to do is invite them to let us know what they want. From there it becomes a natural course.` Nofziger said pastoral care was not a medical cure but a way to make a person's life better during the healing or painful process. 'No one likes changes or losses,` he said. `Sometimes the situation just won't get better but it's important for people to learn how they can get better. That's pastoral care." The emphasis of spirituality is not to recruit or change a person's beliefs but to allow them the spiritual life they need to get through a crisis, Nofziger said. The pastoral care program does not try to bring people to particular denominations but most are represented among the chaplaincy. In addition to working with patients, the chaplains serve on the hospital's ethics committee, provide out-patient counseling, lead Sunday chapel worship and officiate memorial services and weddings. By Margarett Zulpo,Tulsa Community World newspaper.
1987
1986	Mr. Pat Devlin For the past 14 years Tulsan Pat Devlin has donated his time and expertise to the creation of Tulsa's most awaited Christmas lights display… Children's Medical Center's Christmasland. Because of his tireless efforts, he has brought joy to the lives of not only the young patients of the center, but to hundreds of people in the Tulsa community who, year after year, come to view this spectacular event. In the late fall of 1973 as the staff and patients of Children's Medical Center awaited the move into their new home, former Administrator John Byrne searched for a method of introducing their new home to the community. Because the new home would be next to Tulsa's most-traveled expressway, Mr. Byrne felt an opportunity knocking: decorate the grounds of Children's Medical Center during the holiday season in a manner reflecting what the center represents… hope for future generations. Knowing the impact and importance of this new venture, Mr. Byrne felt that an expert in design and display would be the key to the success of this plan. There was one such person in Pat Devlin. Because the seasonal display erected at his home had already become a Tulsa tradition he was asked to organize and assemble the Christmas display at the center. It was during the holiday season of 1973 that Pat Devlin agreed to coordinate what was to become Tulsa's favorite Christmas display ever. A 7' snowman and a 250 pound animated moving teddy bear were among the first displays purchased. As these items were bought in a fire sale, Pat's artistic and electrical talents were applied immediately… rewire, rebuild, repaint, refurbish. One by one, donation by donation, year by year, the dream of a winter wonderland for kids had become a reality. By 1985, the Christmasland display at the Children's Medical Center reached from one end of the property boundary to the other. By Pat's creativity in combining animated characters, fairytale creatures, skating bears and last year's 35' talking Santa, this exhibit has surpassed the expectations of the center's original vision. Hundreds of man hours are needed each year. Materials such as paint, wiring, lights and costumes are also an annual must. Pat recruits his help and leads the way to seeking the support for donations. Humility being his strength, Pat will tell you that it's his volunteers that make "it" happen, and he's right. It takes a team effort and all involved to accomplish this task; however Pat's natural ability as a leader is what pulls it all together. And his leadership is exceeded by his dedication; even after all the lights and displays have been assembled, Pat spends every evening at the center, checking and re-checking all aspects of the display. In addition, he has a unique talent for delegating responsibilities to the individuals best suited to accomplish what needs to be done. His positive and encouraging attitude over the years have earned him the highest respect and admiration from all who have had the privilege of being associated with him. Sertoman Don Welch reflects on Pat Devlin. Pat Devlin has always enjoyed watching people have fun as a result of something he has done." Pat's very first venture into electronic entertainment happened on Halloween when he was a young teen. Pat and his father Roger mounted speakers in a lighted pumpkin. Trick-or-treaters came from blocks away to visit with the talking pumpkin. Pat's love of sharing his talents continued through his educational years. While attending Central High School he was involved in the creation and production of all stage displays. During his college years at Oklahoma State University he achieved one of his highest honors to date when the Greek Campus Organization held its first Christmas decoration contest. As a member of the Delta Chi Fraternity Pat assumed charge and won first place for his house. Because their display was so spectacular, this organization has carried on the tradition by annually presenting the "Pat Devlin Award" for the most outstanding display. The Townwest Sertoma Club Service to Mankind Award was presented to Pad Devlin by President Jack Lollis.
1985	Mrs. Marcia Mitchell In February 20, 1986 the Townwest Sertoma Club recognized Mrs. Marcia Mitchell with the Townwest Sertoma Service to Mankind award. Don Welch presented the award. Marcia Mitchell is co-founder and executive director of The Little Light House Inc, a Tulsa-based Christian development center for handicapped children, founded in October 1972. Judy Murdock, Little Light House educational director nominated Mrs. Mitchell for the award. Don Welch stated Marcia Mitchell exemplifies Sertoma's Service to Mankind ideals to the fullest extent. The Little Light house is a special school established in 1972 to provide special assistance to visually and hearing impaired infants and children to age 10, and to their families. Service is provided through an early training center by a professional staff of certified special education teachers either at the center or in the home. The service is supplemented by an administrative staff and a large number of caring volunteers. The school is totally dedicated to the development of the children and to enriching their lives, he said. Marcia exemplifies the spirit which outwardly shows courage and inspiration so that others have direction and unity of purpose. When in 1972 she sowed the seed that would grow into the solid foundation of The Little Light House, she like the pioneer women knew not what was ahead and relied only upon her own courage stated Welch. From the application, Judy Murdock wrote on Marcia's behalf, Welch read, "It takes more than a seed and more than a seed planter. The one who does the planting must be able to nourish that seed with love and understanding, be unafraid of failure, and be willing to lose so that other may benefit. That person must have the wisdom to see reality and the vision to see hope. Because of Marcia's courage in overcoming the overwhelming obstacles Tulsa families have a place to seek help and understanding, relieving them of desperation, and affording their children an opportunity to achieve and compete to their potential. Roy Collins, President of Townwest Sertoma presided at the awards and Larry H. Coulson Sr. was master of ceremonies at the Palermo's Restaurant.
1984
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recipient each year

David Breed accepts the 1994 Service to Mankind award from President Carl Funderburk