Recognize an outstanding non-Sertoman for exceptional community service, where work is performed on
a volunteer basis.
Anna F. Brown, Townwest Sertoma Club 2010 Service To Mankind winner
Anna 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.
Timothy Scott "Tim" Nall, Townwest Sertoma Club 2009 Service to Mankind Winner
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.
Mr. Glenn Lyles, Townwest Sertoma Club 2008 Service to Mankind Recipient
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 75th 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 3rd 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.
Mrs. Linda Fitzgerald, Townwest Sertoma Club 2007 Service to Mankind Recipient
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.
Honorable Judge Carl Funderburk, Townwest Sertoma Club 2006 Service to Mankind Recipient
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.
Mr. Richard Ryan, Townwest Sertoma Club 2005 Service to Mankind Recipient
Richard Ryan is a 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.
Mr. Bill Pittman, Townwest Sertoma Club 2004 Service to Mankind Recipient
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.
Mr. Jim and Mrs. Joyce Reeves, Townwest Sertoma Club 2003 Service to Mankind Recipient
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.
Mrs. Peggy Machlan, Townwest Sertoma Club 2002 Service to Mankind Recipient
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.
Mr. Roy Heim, Townwest Sertoma Club 2001 Service to Mankind Recipient
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.
Mrs. JoAnn Childers, Townwest Sertoma Club 2000 Service to Mankind Recipient
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.
Dr. Richard Presley, Townwest Sertoma Club 1999 Service to Mankind Recipient
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.
Community Bank and Trust Co., Townwest Sertoma Club 1998 Service to Mankind Recipient
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.
Mrs. Keeta Straley Hicks, Townwest Sertoma Club 1997 Service to Mankind Recipient
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."
Mrs. Mary Johnson, Townwest Sertoma Club 1997 Service to Mankind Recipient
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
Mr. John Pojman, Townwest Sertoma Club 1996 Service to Mankind Recipient
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.
No Townwest Sertoma Club 1995 Service to Mankind Recipient
Mr. David Breed, Townwest Sertoma Club 1994 Service to Mankind Recipient
Executive Director of Western Neighbors, Southwest Tulsa Chamber,
Westside Coalition. Executive Secretary of Southwest Tulsa Historical Society.
Writer for Tulsa County News.
Townwest Sertoma Club 1993 Service to Mankind Recipient
Townwest Sertoma Club 1992 Service to Mankind Recipient
Mr. Robert "Bob" Sitter, Townwest Sertoma Club 1991 Service to Mankind Recipient (Died September 14, 2007)
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.
Mrs. Norma Meyers, Townwest Sertoma Club 1990 Service to Mankind Recipient
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.
Mrs. Betty Ratliff, Townwest Sertoma Club 1989 Service to Mankind Recipient
Betty Ratliff 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.
Mrs. Lou Patrick, Townwest Sertoma Club 1988 Service to Mankind Recipient
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 ZulpoTulsa 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.
Townwest Sertoma Club 1987 Service to Mankind Recipient
Mr. Pat Devlin, Townwest Sertoma Club 1986 Service to Mankind Recipient
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.
Mrs. Marcia Mitchell, Townwest Sertoma Club 1985 Service to Mankind Recipient
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.
The Townwest Sertoma Club was formed in 1981. There were no Service to Mankind Recipients until 1985.
