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March 2015

2 2015 MEET YOUR LOCAL SPECIALIST

Adult & Pediatric Care, 7 Days a WeekAccidents and illnesses don’t follow schedules. Xpress Wellness offers convenient hours, walk-in care and a check-in process that can be done in the clinic or online. With treatment for illnesses, injuries and a complete line of employer services, medical care has never been more accessible. No appointments are necessary. Most insurances accepted.

XpressWellnessUrgentCare.com12 East MacArthur, Shawnee | 405-275-1001

Open 7 Days a WeekMonday-Saturday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. | Sunday, 1 - 7 p.m.

Because it hurts to wait.

Open 7 Days a Week

2015 MEET YOUR LOCAL SPECIALIST 3

2015 MEET YOUR LOCAL SPECIALIST is a Special Publication of The Shawnee News-Star©Copyright 2015 GateHouse Media, Inc., 215 N. Bell St., P.O. Box 1688, Shawnee, OK 74804, (405) 273-4200. All rights reserved. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without written consent from the publisher.

PublisherKent Bush

AdvertisingJames Bridges Director, Christina Walker Sales

Graphic ArtistsReita Easley Director,

Brooke Jones& Tawny Ransom

503 N. BroadwayTecumseh

“Treating you like family”

(405) 598-2899 www.tecumsehpt.com

We provide treatment for injuries or illness incuding but not limited to:

• Back Pain• Bone Fractures• Cerebral Palsy• Ligament Damage• Tendon or Ligament Problems• Muscle or Joint Pain• Osteoarthritis• Parkinson’s Disease• Post Surgery• Sprains & Strains

THE SHAWNEE NEWS-STARLeft to right: Christina Walker, Laurin Nadeau, James Bridges,

Wanda Westerman, and Salonne Carter.

2015 Meet Your Local Specialist

To be included in our next publication, contact

Christina Walker 214-3933

[email protected]


Job Searching?

Visit Online Today! www.expresspros.com

LOOK HERE

3905 N HarrisonShawnee OK 74804

405-275-7575www.expresspros.com

For nearly 30 years, the vision of Express Employment Professionals has been to help people fi nd jobs and help businesses fi nd the people and human resource services they need.

If you’re a job seeker Express will assess your skills, offer interview and résumé writing tips, and work with you to fi nd a job that fi ts your needs and abilities. Applicants never pay a fee at Express, and you’ll have the opportunity to earn benefi ts such as medical insurance, holiday pay, vacation pay, referral bonuses, and much more

Spartan Staffi ng, a TrueBlue company specializing in staffi ng for the manufacturing and logistics industries. Spartan is the employer of choice committed to offering positions for growth and a stable future. We are interested in meeting people to join the Spartan team. We’ll use your skills & attributes to place you in a job that matches your

preferences. Guided by our values, we pride ourselves on our commit-ment to creating opportunities for your success.

We are currently hiring for manufacturing positions in the Shawnee, OK area for TDK Manufacturing!

Spartan is an equal opportunity employer. We may conduct a formal criminal background check and drug screen prior to placement.

We offer: 1. Full Time, Long Term Positions, Including Entry Level to Experienced 2. Immediate Benefi ts 3. Salary $8.75 – $10.50 (Depending on shift and position) 4. Employee Incentive Programs 5. Referral Bonus for Eligible Employees $50 6. Safe Environment 7. Onsite Representation to Assist in Job Management 8. Weekly Pay

Application can be submitted today by:

Visiting our offi ce at

722 E. Independence, Suite A, Shawnee, OK 74801

Emailing resume to

7218-br@spartanstaffi ng.com

Applying online at www.spartanstaffi ng.com

Calling the offi ce to schedule an appointment at

405/395-0070

EmploymentMany top level business executives, including some CEOs, began their careers in entry-level positions. Such positions may not fulfill a post-grad’s dream, but they are often great op-portunities for freshly minted graduates to learn about a given industry.

Like many opportunities, entry-level jobs are often only as valu-able as employees want them to be. Those who approach en-try-level opportunities with a good attitude and a strong desire to learn are the ones who are most likely to someday consider their experiences as entry-level employees as invaluable.


QUALITY LUBELeft to right: Charles Lee, Christopher Martin, Randall Guffey,

Eleazar Espinoza, Kyle Williams, Larry Carter and Zachary Sullivan

SPARTANLesslie Nuttall

RISING STAR GYMNASTICSDebbie Simonson

COLONIAL ESTATESBack row: Lorrie Hardison, Brandi McCoy, Cindy Finley, Connie Kellner and Cindy Bugg. Front row: Linda Foster, Jamie Edwards, Wanda Baker, Melissa

Lane, Tony Gammel, Cindy McCormick and Jennifer Swank.

Meet Your Local Specialists


QUALITYLUBE & AUTO

4438 N. Harrison Shawnee, OK

405-878-9992

Auto Residential CommercialHours M-F 8-6 Sat 8-12

Ph. (405)432-5202 • (405)765-21391125 N. Kickapoo

Shawnee, OK 74801

Owners: Danny & Michelle Barton

Services Offered• Storm Door/

Window parts

• Window Pane Repair

• Insulated Glass

Replacement

• Window Screens

• Custom Cut Glass

• Auto Glass

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• Tempered Glass

• Window Lift

Regulators & Motors

• Rock-Chip & Leak

Repair

When it comes to taking care of their vehicles, many motorists pre-fer to be overly cautious. While that’s not necessarily a bad thing, there are times when being too cautious can unnecessarily cost you money.

Motor oil, and when to change that oil, has long been a point of contention. Many drivers grew up being told that motor oil should be changed every 3,000 miles. However, that myth has been debunked for many of today’s vehicles, which should come with suggested intervals between oil changes. According to Edmunds.com, in 2010 the average interval for oil changes was 7,800 miles. In addition to changing a car’s motor oil less frequently, there are other things drivers should know about motor oil.

* Oil does not necessarily need to be changed before a long trip. Taking a trip? While it’s good to have your car examined before embarking, if the recommended oil change interval is not up, then you do not need to preemptively change your oil. Such a change is likely unnecessary and will not improve the performance of your vehicle during the trip.

* Black oil does not necessitate a change. Conventional wisdom once suggested if the oil on the dipstick is black then it needs to be changed. But nowadays automotive professionals are not-ing that black oil is doing its job and different additives might be

changing the oil’s color, which means the oil doesn’t need to be changed.* You can use petroleum-based oil after using synthetic. Another longstanding myth regarding motor oil was that once you use a synthetic motor oil instead of a petroleum-based oil you have to continue using synthetic oil, which is often more expensive than more traditional motor oil, in order to avoid harming the vehicle.

However, automotive professionals have noted that these two types of oils are now often blended, meaning switching back and forth from one to the other is not likely to cause any damage to your vehicle. Just be sure to use motor oil that meets the standards set forth in your vehicle’s owner’s manual.

* Consider an earlier oil change after buying a new vehicle. Sometimes a new vehicle will need an oil change after its first 3,000 miles. However, this does not mean your vehicle will need one every 3,000 miles. According to Blackstone Laboratories, who study motor oil,

oil samples taken from engines during their initial 3,000 miles of driving had elevated metal levels from the camshafts and pistons. These elevated levels will not necessarily be harmful, but some auto manufacturers recommend a shorter initial interval just to be safe. Honda, however, includes an anti-wear additive in their break-in oil and advises against changing their oil early. Consult your owner’s manual to determine if it’s best to change your oil after the initial 3,000 miles or to let it go until the recommended interval.

Things to know about motor oil


1405 N. MILT PHILLIPS SEMINOLE, OK(405) 382-6130 or (800) 310-6130

Great Service & ValueAre Always In Style atUNITED MOTORS

Stop in and see why our customers love us!

www.unitedmotorsinc.net


EXPRESS EMPLOYMENTHarmony Crane, Carmon Hudson, Tom Cooper, Elizabeth Hughey and

Staci Hascall

MULTI-COUNTY INSURANCE

Greg Wall


CIMMARON APARTMENTSHeather Burris

CHRIS RICK STATE FARM INSURANCEKelli James, Chris Rick, Kasey Long and Sarah Fisher


2700 N. Hwy 99 • Seminole, OK 74868

(405) 382-5600

Dedicated to Your Comfort

“Our customers should expect to get our knowledge and expertise as part

of the complete package.”–Lenard Mathews, Owner

Your ComfortSystem SpecialistsYou can count on us for fast and reliable installation, maintanance and repair of your home’s heating, cooloing and geo thermal needs.

Heating & CoolingResidential / Commercial

1990 201525thANNIVERSARY

Once a rarity, fire pits have grown increasingly popular in recent years, as more and more homeowners turn their homes into private oases. Fire pits run the gamut from the very simple to the more elaborate, and the fire pits homeowners choose often depend on the space they have available as well as their budgets.

But even homeowners without any space or budget constraints should give careful consideration to which fire pit they ultimately install, especially if they plan to make that installation themselves. The following are some dos and don’ts of fire pits for those hom-eowners about to add this relaxing and popular accessory to their backyards.

DO confirm you can legally build a fire pit in your yard. Fire pits have become so commonplace that homeowners may think there are no regulations governing their construction. However, it’s still best to confirm with your local government planning or zoning of-fices if you can build a fire pit and if any restrictions apply.

DON’T proceed with the project until you have been granted of-ficial approval. Assuming you have the go-ahead to build a fire pit is not the same thing as knowing you have been approved. Starting early could result in fines if it turns out you aren’t allowed to have a fire pit. But you may also begin building a bigger fire pit than the local government allows, and that could be money down the drain later. Wait until you get official word before you proceed with the project.

DO build on flat ground. The fire pit should be built on flat ground to reduce risk of accident and/or injury. A fire pit built on flat ground also means everyone can enjoy it comfortably and equally

once the project is finished. If the ground around the pit is not flat, some people may be forced to sit crooked or lean forward just to enjoy the pit.

DON’T build near flammable structures. Build the fire pit far enough away from existing structures, such as your home, garage or shed, so flickering flames do not catch some wind and lead to disaster. Before building in a given spot, monitor the wind patterns for a few days by sitting in a lawn chair at the spot you ultimately want the fire pit to be. If you notice the wind is blowing toward your house, you will want to choose another area for the pit so smoke from the fire will not be blowing into your homeevery night.

DO choose the right size. The size of your fire pit will depend on the space you have available, but even if you have a vast swath of space, keep in mind that professional contractors typically recom-mend building a fire pit no bigger than 44 inches wide. Anything larger can be unsightly and may not appeal to prospective buyers down the road. In addition, an especially large fire pit may result in potentially unruly flames that can present a fire hazard.

DON’T go it alone if your DIY skills are suspect. Installing a fire pit is a relatively inexpensive DIY job, but that does not mean anyone can do it. Ground needs to be excavated and the slope of the yard must be measured so the fire pit is safe and functional for years to come. If your DIY skills are not up to snuff, hire a professional con-tractor so your backyard oasis does not become a costly headache.

A fire pit can turn a boring backyard into a relaxing retreat. But ho-meowners must adhere to the dos and don’ts of fire pits to ensure their retreat is something they can enjoy for years to come.

The dos and don’ts of backyard fire pits


SHAWNEE CARE CENTEREtta Ladd, LaDonna Almon, Cheryl Berry, Phyllis King, Megan Scott,

Terri Harjo, Gayla Watts, Janie Pollard, Yvetta Alderson and Tanisha Talton


GLASS ACTIONDanny and Michelle Barton

ASPIRE HOME CAREStarla French


128 Summit Dr.Shawnee

273-1521

SPARKS HEAT & AIR, INC.

Serving the Shawnee Area Since 1981

You work hard to make a comfortable home for your family.

Your Local

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FINANCINGAVAILABLE!

5 ways to improve curb appeal Homeowners who want their homes to make strong first impres-sions must prioritize curb appeal. Homes with strong curb appeal sell well and can impart a welcoming feel to all visitors. Improv-ing curb appeal need not be expensive, and the following are a handful of ways to improve the appearance of your home.

1. Install a bold-looking door in a vibrant color or one with a cus-tom design. This helps the home stand out from other properties in the neighborhood.

2. Edge the driveway to create a distinct border between the driveway and the lawn or other landscaping features. This helps homes appear neat and well kept.

3. Use outdoor lighting to make a home more inviting. Outdoor lighting also makes properties safer to traverse at night.

4. Clean a home’s exterior to remove mildew or discolor-ations from the siding, drive-way, patio, and other outdoor elements.5. Improve landscapes with fresh plants and seasonal color. Homeowners without the time to plant can consider con-tainer gardens, which don’t take much time to assemble but still add appeal to a home’s exterior.

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Check us out for all of your banking needs.

Visit us at either of ourconvenient Shawnee locations.

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4439 N. Kickapoo405-878-3700


How do couples merge their finances? Getting married means accepting change and combining two lives into one. After tying the knot, certain decisions and discussions are easier than others. Conversations about money may be one of the hardest top-ics for newly married couples to navigate.

Couples are heading to the alter later than they did in generations past. In the United States, the average age of a first marriage is now 27 for women and 29 for men. That means couples are bringing several years of life experiences to their marriage and individuals are possibly leaving behind entirely autonomous lives. Many people have had a few years in the workforce and may have accumulated savings or, conversely, debt. Upon getting married, couples may have some questions as to how to handle financial issues, particularly if one person is contributing more to the household account than the other.

There’s no one-size-fits-all scenario that works for all couples when it comes to money management. Similarly, what worked for parents or grandparents may not necessarily be the right fit for couples today. It may take some time and trial and error for newlyweds or cohabitating couples to find a system that appeals to them. The following are a few ways for couples to approach their finances.

Separate but equal

Some couples opt to continue on just as they had before they got married. That means maintaining separate banking accounts and pool-ing resources toward bills and other expenses. As long as the bills are getting paid, then maintaining separate accounts can work for some, particularly those who do not want to account for every purchase and want to maintain some financial freedom. This scenario can become

problematic when couples are saving toward a larger goal, such as a vacation, home or car. Each person may have different ideas on how to save and contribute toward the goal.

Mine, yours and ours

If you decide to pool your resources, there are still a handful of ways to can go about it. One way is to pool all of your assets and pay for every-thing out of a joint account. Another option is to maintain separate ac-counts but create a joint account for those larger, shared expenses. For example, you may open a house account, out of which your housing and childcare expenses are paid, but maintain separate individual accounts for personal expenses.

This situation may work but only if the ground rules are established right away. Decisions on how much money to put into the shared account can be stressful. Does each person contribute equally or are contributions contingent on salary? Which purchases will be shared jointly, and which ones will individuals take care of on their own? Lots of questions arise, and it may not make money management any easier.

Combined accounts

Combined accounts used to be the norm for married couples. The “what’s mine is your’s” approach may not be so easy to adopt, especially when couples spent so much time independently before the marriage. Couples who pool their resources should learn to accept each other’s spending habits.

According to past census data, 32 percent of wives in 1960 were in the labor force so combined accounts were common and very often man-aged by husbands. But today the majority of homes are two-income households, so making all purchases out of a single joint account may not make as much sense as it did in decades past.

Decisions about money turn up as relationships take new turns. Newly-weds and established couples may need to modify their spending and saving habits as their relationships change.


Make Primrose your home and give yourself the gift of carefree, maintenance free living.

Call Kandi today at 405-273-0925 to schedule your personal tour, and come see why we say,

Primrose Villas,Independent and Assisted Living

®

1905 N. Bryan AvenueShawnee, OK

www.PrimroseRetirement.com

Shawnee Colonial EstatesNursing Home and Rehabilitation Center

Joy in the Journey

Colonial Estates Nursing and Rehabilitation, we work hard for you to have the comforts

of home.

(405) 273-7661535 W. Federal

Shawnee

Our residents take pride in making their room their home. The home has three living areas, and three dining areas. Semi-private and private rooms, include:

• 24 Hour Nursing Care• Cable T.V.• Housekeeping• Laundry Services• Well-Balanced Meals

Individualized by a Dietician

24 Hour Skilled Nursing Care

Social Service

Activities

From the moment young men and women first walk into the office for their first day as a working professional until the day they of-ficially retire, the notion of planning for retirement is never far from their minds. But when the day to hang up the briefcase and donate all those business suits arrives, some retirees wonder what to do next. Some retirees know exactly how they will spend their days when they no longer have to work, while others who decide to play it by ear may find themselves battling boredom.

For those among the latter group, it’s important to understand that many retirees find themselves bored once they no longer have to focus on a career. Jobs keep men and women busy and provide a sense of purpose in their lives, so it’s understandable that retirees feel bored once those jobs are no longer a part of their lives. But just because you no longer have an office to go to every day does not mean life cannot be as fulfilling or even more fulfilling than it was when you were still working. You just need to find something to avoid suc-cumbing to retirement boredom.

· Work part-time. Though it might seem odd to start working right after youretire, a part-time job can provide the type of structure you have grown accus-tomed to without all of the responsibility that comes with a full-time career. Part-time jobs can range from consultancy work that makes use of your professional experience to something entirely different like land-scape maintenance at a nearby golf course that gets you out of the house and enjoying the warmer seasons.

Whichever you choose, make sure it’s something you find fun and interesting.

· Embrace a new hobby. Working professionals often say they wish they had time to pursue a hobby. Now that you are retired, you have all the time in the world to do just that. Whether it’s perfect-ing your golf game, writing that novel, learning to cook like a gourmet chef or whatever else you might have always wanted to do, retirement is a great time to do it.

How to avoid growing bored in retirement

Continued on page 15

Since 1996, Aspire Home Care has kept its fi nger on the pulse of evolving community home health needs, responding with innovative patient services. Aspire nurses, therapists, social workers, and other skilled professionals provide the highest quality healthcare in the home in Oklahoma.

855•5•ASPIRE (855-527-7473)www.aspirehomecare.com

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Come see how we can improve your quality of life!

Did you know?An individual retirement account, or IRA, is a type of account men and women who meet certain eligibility requirements can open to save money for their retirement. Unlike a 401(k), a type of retirement account that is provided by an employer, an IRA must be opened by an individual. Another difference between a 401(k) and an IRA is that men and women can withdraw money from their IRAs before they reach retirement age to pay medi-cal expenses without incurring the penalties that apply when 401(k) account holders prematurely withdraw money from these accounts. One similarity between 401(k) accounts and tradi-tional IRAs concerns taxation. Account holders of both types of accounts do not pay taxes on their contributions to those accounts until they begin to withdraw money in retirement (prematurely withdrawing money from a 401(k) will incur taxes and fees). But men and women who open a Roth IRA pay their taxes up front, meaning they won’t be paying taxes down the road when theywithdraw money in retirement. Each type of IRA comes with its own set of rules and restrictions, including contribution limits and eligibility requirements based on earned income. In addition, men and women with a traditional IRA must begin to withdraw their money by the time they reach age 70.5, while those with a Roth IRA can leave their money in their ac-counts as long as they please.

· Get in shape. If retirement boredom has started to negatively affect your mood, one great way to conquer your boredom and improve your mood at the same time is to start exercising. Exercise is a natural mood enhancer. When the body exercises, it releases chemicals knowns as endorphins, which trigger positive feelings in the body. In addition, regular exercise has been shown to reduce stress, boost self-esteem and improve sleep. Working out at a gym also is a great way to meet fellow retirees in your community, and the energy you have after exercising may give you the boost you need to pursue other hobbies.

· Volunteer. If a part-time job is not up your alley, then consider volunteering in your community. Volunteers are always in demand, and volunteering with a local charity can provide a sense of purpose and provide opportunities to meet like-minded fellow retirees, all while helping to quell your bore-dom. Retirees who love to travel can combine their passion for volunteering with their love of travel by signing up to work with an international relief organization that travels abroad to help the less fortunate.

Upon retiring, many retirees initially find themselves coping with boredom. But there are many ways to avoid the restlessness of retirement.

How to avoid growing, Continued from page 14


Some people do not have the ability to begin saving for retirement early on. Others may have brushed retirement savings aside for so long that they are now worried that it’s too late to begin socking away money for retirement.

While it’s best to start saving for retirement as early as possible, the good news is that it’s never too late to start planning for retirement. If your 40th birthday has long passed and you’re finally thinking ahead to retirement, consider these catch-up strategies.

· Research tax-advantageous retirement savings plans. A financial planner can point you in the right direction, or consult with your employer about employee programs. Deposit money into a 401(k) or 403(b) plan or another retirement vehicle. Jump on any opportunities when your employer matches invested funds. Investigate an IRA and find out if there are any government incentives. Depending on your age, you may be able to deposit more money into such accounts than other investors.

· Cut back on expenses. Cutting back on unnecessary expenses is a great way to save more money for retirement. Figure out where you can save some money you can then allocate to retirement savings. Maybe you can reduce insurance coverage on an older car or raise your deductible? Downsize cable packages or skip that costly cup of coffee on the way to work. Perhaps it’s time to look for a smaller, less expensive home or a compact car instead of an SUV. Any money saved now will benefit you when the time comes time to bid farewell to the workforce.

· Delay your retirement. Many people who retire find themselves bored and looking for ways to fill their time, and as a result more and more people are delaying their retirement, which also gives them more time to save for that day when they do call it quits. If you want to work less, discuss and negotiate a phased retirement with your bosses that allows you to stick with your employer but gradually work fewer hours until you retire completely. You may be able to work part-time for several years and retire when you’re most comfortable.

· Consider more aggressive funds. Even if you are 50 you still have a few decades before retirement, which leaves lots of time to grow your retirement savings. But you may want to consider more aggressive funds that can help you catch up more quickly than less aggressive investments. Just know

that aggressive funds may also leave you susceptible to substantial losses.

· Don’t amass debt. If you’re saving for retirement but only pay-ing minimum balances on your credit cards, then you’re not really saving. Pay down credit card debt before you begin to set aside

money for retirement.

Delaying retirement plan-ning may mean you have to work a little harder to build up a solid reserve. But by following some financial tips and persevering, you can still enjoy retirement with security.

Rebounding from a late startto retirement savings

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Over the course of their lifetimes, men and women can expect to spend thousands of dollars on insurance. People insure their ve-hicles, homes,health, lives, and a host of other things, and the cost of such security can be significant. Considered essential by many men and women, insuranceis unlike any other product or service, as people will pay for it all the while hoping they never need it. That reality leaves many policy holders wondering if there are any ways to save on their insurance policies without diminishing their coverage.

Though insurance companies consider a host of factors when determining the cost of each individual policy, there are some ways that all men and women can reduce their insurance bills.

* Bundle your policies. Multi-policy discounts, which many insur-ancecompanies offer to policy holders who combine two or more policies, can save men and women substantial amounts of money. Purchasing homeowners’, automotive and life insurance policies from the same provider saves consumers an average of 10 percent, and such a discount can add up to a significant amount of money over the life of your policies.

* Comparison shop. Though shopping for insurance might not be as fun as finding your next television or test driving cars, compari-son shopping when buying insurance can save policy holders a significant amount of money. The cost of insurance often varies sig-nificantly from provider to provider, and consumers should exercise due diligence when looking to cut their insurance costs. Comfort level with an existing insuranceprovider should not outweigh the

savings you might earn elsewhere, especially if another provider can offer you the same exact coverage at a much lower price. You may even be able to lower your existing policy if you contact your current provider and inform them you have received a more afford-able estimate with another company.

* Consider specialist companies. A handful of insurance compa-nies specialize in particular types of insurance. For example, one company might specialize in motorcycle insurance and might be more capable of tailoring your policy to your particular driving habits, offering you discounts depending on how many years you have been riding motorcycles. However, a more general company might simply lump you into one big group, meaning you’re likely to earn similar rates as novice riders without your experience. There are specialist companies offering various types ofinsurance, so look into such companies if you have special needs or less popular hob-bies that require insurance.

* Stop paying for duplicate coverage. Many people can trim some of their monthly insurance costs by combing their existing cover-ages to determine if they are paying for duplicate coverage. For instance, your auto insurance policy may include health coverage, but chances are your existing health insurance will trump the health coverage offered by your auto insurance policy, meaning you’re paying for the same thing twice. Examine each of your policies to determine if you are paying for any duplicate coverage, and then contact your provider to remove such items if you find them.

Simple ways to save money on insurance costs


Upcycling is not just for craft projects - it offers lots of possibilities to make changes in your home décor, especially cabinets and furni-ture that will save money and reduce your contribution to the local landfill. Woodcraft can help you with upcycling ideas, products and advice.

For the past year, Woodcraft retail stores have hosted upcycling demonstrations on the third Saturday of the month to help custom-ers discover the potential for upcycling in their home projects.

“To support this upcycling effort, Woodcraft.com added an Up-cycling Resource Center to our website (http://www.woodcraft.com/media/upcycling.aspx) to introduce viewers to upcycling and announce demo topics and dates,” Vince Grlovich, vice president for sales and marketing, said. “Viewers can also watch a segment of Lifetime’s Designing Spaces where Woodcraft product develop-ment manager Kent Harpool shows host Aliane Baquerot how to create a shelf from a wooden pallet.”

Both Woodcraft’s Pinterest page (www.pinterest.com/woodcraft-supply/upcycling) and Instagram gallery (http://instagram.com/woodcraftgallery) include upcycling ideas, and the blog, Wood-working Adventures (http//:blog.woodcraft.com) has featured upcycling several times.

Jewelry Armoire Makeover

Inspired by the upcycling trend, many Woodcraft employees have completed projects, including marketing manager Lori Haught, who transformed a 1980s Jewelry Armoire (see photo) into a more stylish, modern piece for her bedroom. She gave it a new coat of paint, new silver/glass pulls and flocking on the drawer interiors. You can see the entire process by visiting Woodworking Adven-tures and searching for “The Jewelry Armoire Makeover.”

An Irwin Marples Blue Chip Chisel was used for the disassembly that was required to add new hardware and make other changes to Lori’s armoire.

To remove the residue from old finishes and polish, Lori chose Nor-ton Soft Touch Medium 120-180 Grit Sanding Sponges for the con-tour detailed areas and Preppin Weapon Sanding Blocks, loaded with Mirka Abranet 23/4” x 8” Sanding Sheets, for flat areas. Once the sanding was finished, all the pieces were cleaned with General Finishes Furniture Cleaner using handy Star Wipers rags.

Three coats of General Finishes Black Gel Stain were applied to the armoire. Although each coat was allowed to dry overnight because of other commitments, the actual time required between coats is two to four hours. (Gel stains come in 12 other colors including the popular java.) Two coats of General Finishes High Performance Satin Water-Based Top Coat were applied next.

To prep for the new hardware, Golden Oak Water-Base Famowood Filler was used to plug screw holes. More chiseling was required before a pair of 11/2” X 11/8” Satin Nickel Stop Hinges could be installed.

Before reflocking the drawers, Bulls Eye Sealcoat Universal Sanding Sealer was applied to the interior of the drawers and the dividers. Wearing an Anti Microbial Dust Mask and 6 mil Medium Powder

Free Nitrile Gloves, Lori applied Light Blue Donjer Flocking, using a Donjer Mini Flocker.

Reassembly of the armoire required System Three 5-Minute Epoxy and a Bessey K-Body REVO Jr. 24” Single Parallel Clamp.

Other Popular Upcycling Products

Soy-Gel is a 100 percent biodegradable, virtually odorless coat-ing remover. Restor-A-Finish can be used to clean and restore the luster to a clear finish, as well as hide minor issues like scratches. It will also remove water rings.

Milk paint is a popular coating, especially for furniture. General Fin-ishes Milk Paint is premixed and available in 28 colors that can be mixed to make custom colors and lend themselves to decorative effects such as distressing and antiquing. Old Fashioned Milk Paint is a powder that comes in 20 colors and is good for use on porous surfaces such as bare wood and raw masonry. A special effect Old Fashioned Milk Paint Crackle Finish provides a weathered look.

The 23-lb. portable QuikBENCH® is a lightweight, easy-to-set-up workbench capable of holding up to 300 lbs. Convert two Quik-BENCHES to sawhorses, and together they will hold up to 2,000 lbs. Two or more benches can be connected together to form a workstation. Each bench has a 24”-wide by 31/2” opening vise and a 15-amp, circuit protected, three-outlet power strip, plus four plastic bench dogs.

Add upcycling to your homeimprovement tools


Our Mission at Rising Star Gymnastics, Inc. is to develop each individual’s gymnastics potential in a safe and

enjoyable atmosphere through positive reinforcement. We strive to help each child gain greater self-confi dence and

a more positive self-image.

NOW Enrolling Boys Team Ages 6-16

Rising Star Gymnasticswww.rsgymnasticsok.com

It’s a birthday party!Saturdays

12:00, 2:00, 4:00, or 6:00Mark your calendar for your child’s

Special daySpots fill up fast! $7500 Deposit will reserve

your spot

1301 N Kennedy, Shawnee OK • (405) 273-1068

Age doesn’t have to stop older men and women from enjoying their favorite sports. In fact, remaining active can improve physical and mental health.

If a doctor has confirmed that it is okay to participate in sports, these activities can help men and women 50 and older enjoy friendly competition and physical activity.

Fishing

Fishing is more than just a leisurely day at the lake. Casting and reeling in your catch provides a good workout for the arms, legs and core muscles of the body. If you fish on the water, rowing out to your lucky spot provides ad-ditional cardiovascular exercise.

Golf

Golf is enjoyed by people of all ages. Requiring a combination of strategy and skill, golf also pays

several physical dividends. Play at your own pace, taking your time walking from hole to hole so you can enjoy the sunshine and soak in the beauty of the course.

Swimming

A few laps around a pool works your whole body. Swim-ming is attractive to seniors because it works the muscles and provides a cardiovascular jolt without putting any strain on the joints.

Cycling

Many seniors are avid cyclists. You can ride a bicycle in competition or for pleasure. You can even vary your route depending on how physically intense you want the ride to be.

Seniors need not abandon their love of sport just be-cause Father Time is catching up with them. Many sports can be enjoyed by athletes of all ages.

Popular sports for seniors


214-5550

COMMERCIAL

& RESIDENTIAL

SALES SERVICE

INSTALLATION

AIR FORCE 1A/C & HTG., L.L.C.

1810 N Harrison Shawnee, OK 74804

(405)275-23431-800-482-4866

CimarronTerrace Apartments

Manhattan Management Co. L.L.C. www.livewellinoklahoma.com

City Living On A Smaller Scale

Mother Nature is consistently inconsistent these days, when 30-degree Mondays might be followed by 60-degree Tuesdays. Fickle weather is often accompanied by large fluctuations in temperature, strong storms and unsea-sonable conditions, making it difficult for homeowners to maintain comfort levels in their homes.

As a result of fluctuating temperatures, home heating and cooling systems have been heavily taxed. Growing reliance on HVAC systems has also driven up energy bills, as moderate weather synonymous with spring has given way to more days of extreme heat or extreme cold. As summer approaches once again, reducing cooling costs is a priority for many homeowners. The follow-ing are a few ways to cool your home’s interior without causing a spike in your energy bill.

· Reduce sun exposure. Much of the hot air inside of a home can be attributed to sunlight exposure throughout the day. Walls and windows on the south and west sides of a home will bear the brunt of the sun’s rays, so close shades and drapes on this side of the house to maximize coolness. Shades and curtains can save you up to 7 percent on your bills and lower indoor tempera-tures by up to 20 degrees. Homeowners also may want to think about install-ing a retractable awning on areas of the house that get a lot of sun. Planting shade trees is another way to naturally cool down hot sides of the house.

· Draw more air into the attic. Hot air rises, and in the summertime hot aircan get trapped beneath the roof in the attic and eaves of a home. While an attic should have vents, homeowners can speed up the exchange of hot air with a simple trick. Open up a window on a shady side of the home, and then open

the attic door or take out the access panel and place a box fan inside to blow air up into the attic. This will disperse the hot air and help force it out through the vents.

· Use fans productively. Using box fans to suck cool night air in from east- and north-facing windows and to push out hot air from west- and south-facing windows is another way to increase circulation through a home. Running fans may be less costly than turning on air conditioners. Also, set ceiling fans to rotate counter-clockwise. This will pull cooler air up from the floor and create a wind-chill effect.

· Switch to LED or CFL bulbs. Ninety percent of the energy used for incan-descent bulbs is emitted as heat. This not only wastes electricity but also can make conditions hotter inside a home. Switch to cooler, more efficient light bulbs.

· Reduce humidity levels. Humidity makes hot temperatures feel even hotter. Clean laundry, take showers and run the dishwasher at night or early in the morning before the day heats up. Don’t forget to vent bathrooms and kitch-ens by turning on exhaust fans when water is in use.

· Rely on a programmable thermostat. Setting a thermostat to adjust theair conditioning system automatically means homeowners can keep the temperature raised when they’re not home and then have it lowered shortly before they arrive home. The thermostat also can adjust temperatures for day and night use.

· Keep doors closed. Do not cool rooms that are unused. Maximize the cool air in lived-in spaces by blocking off rooms that do not need to be cooler.

· Invest in more insulation. Insulation does not just keep homes warmer in the cold weather. Insulation also prevents hot air from infiltrating living spaces while keeping cooler air where it’s needed. Sealant around windows and doors also will prevent unnecessary air exchange.

How to cool your home without breaking the bank


Many stains are instantly noticeable. But while a wine stain on a light-colored carpet or a gravy stain on a white shirt tend to jump out right away, other stains sneak past our radars every day. Ceiling stains are one type of stain that tend to go unno-ticed for long periods of time. But ceiling stains can be unsight-ly, and some are even indicative of a larger problem, so it pays for homeowners to address stains on their ceilings as soon as possible.

· Start with the source. Low kitchen ceilings tend to fall victim to oil stains, which are an unfortunate side effect of cooking. But not all stains can be so easily traced to their origins. Some ceiling stains, such as those in bathrooms, may be a byproduct of mold, while others may be indicative of plumbing problems. Identifying the source of a stain is often the first step toward eradicating it.

· Fix the problem. Once you have identified what’s causing the stain, fix the problem as soon as possible. Ceiling stains are often indicative of much larger problems, and the longer those problems are allowed to fester, the bigger they become. Some water stains on ceilings result from cracks or joints that have not been adequately sealed or caulked. Reseal or recaulk any cracks you suspect are leading to ceiling stains. If you have determined a leaky roof is behind your stained ceilings, then have the roof inspected for damage, and prepare yourself to finance a new roof if the inspector determines that’s the best solution.

· Cover nearby furniture. If you find ceiling stains above living areas, then be sure to cover the furniture below such ceilings with a tarp. Even if your stain solution will be made primarily of water, you don’t want to risk compounding your ceiling stain problem by staining your furniture as well.

· Remove the stains. Different stains require different treat-ments. A solution made of water and bleach may be effec-tive at removing ceiling stains, but only apply such solutions on days when you can open the windows and air out your home. Larger stains may require the application of a stain blocker, which may need to be applied with a roller and brush. No mat-ter the stain, you need to leave time for the ceiling to dry be-fore you can move on. Opening the windows can prevent your home from being overcome by the smell of bleach and also speed up the time it takes the ceiling to dry.

· Cover the ceiling with primer. Once the ceiling has completely dried, you can apply a stain-blocking primer to prevent future stains. Allow the primer ample time to dry.

· Apply a fresh coat of paint. After the primer has dried com-pletely, you can then repaint the ceiling. Some paints may blend in even if you only paint the affected areas of the ceiling, but others will require a complete repainting of the ceiling. The eye test will help you determine how much work you have to do in that regard.

How to address ceiling stains

Did you Know?A new roof can be one of the more expensive repairs for hom-eowners. But homeowners don’t have to break the bank when it comes to replacing a roof, which can be made from a variety of materials that can vary greatly in price. Asphalt shingles are the most affordable roofing material and that budget-friendly price is one reason why asphalt shingles are so popular. The asphalt shingles of today are also durable, which was not always the case. Ceramic tiles are another roofing material, but these tend to be quite expensive. However, their price has made them quite rare, which might be attractive to prospective buyers when the time comes to sell the house. Durable and aesthetically appeal-ing, metal roofing is another option that’s popular in areas they get heavy snowfall because snow does not build up on the metal like it might on other materials. The price of metal roofing varies significantly, so homeowners considering a metal roof should do some comparison shopping beforemaking a decision. Slate tiles are another roofing material, but one that’s very labor-intensive to install and, as a result, costly as well. But slate tiles are very durable, in some cases lasting as long as half a century or more, so homeowners who install slate tile can rest easy knowing the roof they install now will likely be the last roof they ever pay for.


The rejuvenating spirit of spring makes this beloved season an ideal time for homeowners to take stock of their homes and prop-erties and address any issues that arose during the winter. While some homes make it through winter unscathed, the harsh weather of the year’s coldest season can add several tasks to homeowners’ springtime to-do lists.

While some projects are best left to the professionals, others can be tackled even by those homeowners with little or no DIY experi-ence. The following are a handful of projects tailor-made for spring.

Inspect the gutters

Gutters tend to bear the brunt of harsh winter weather, and come spring gutters are in need of inspection if not repair. Winter winds, snow and heavy rainfall can compromise the effectiveness of gutters, which can easily accumulate debris and detach from homes during winter storms. In addition, gutters sometimes develop leaks over the winter months. As a result, homeowners should conduct a careful inspection of their gutters come the spring, be-ing sure to look for leaks while clearing the gutters of debris and reattaching gutters that might have become detached from the home on windy win-ter days and nights. When reattaching loose gutters, make sure the downspouts are draining away from the foundation, as gutters that are not draining properly can cause damage to that foundation and possibly lead to flooding.

Take stock of roof shingles

Much like its gutters and downspouts, a home’s roof can suffer significant damage over the course of a typical winter. Shingles may be lost to harsh winter winds and storms, so homeowners should examine the roof to determine if any shingles were lost (lost shingles might even be lying around the property) or suffered dam-age that’s considerable enough to require replacement. Summer can be especially brutal on shingles, especially those that suffered significant damage during the winter. If left unchecked or unad-dressed, problems with damaged shingles can quickly escalate into larger issues when spring rains and summer sun inevitably arrive, so homeowners should prioritize fixing or replacing damaged shingles as quickly as possible.

Check for freeze damage

Frozen temperatures can be hard on humans and homes alike, but unlike humans who can stay inside when temperatures dip below freezing, homes are forced to withstand the elements throughout the winter. External hose faucets are often susceptible to freeze damage. To inspect such faucets, turn the water on and then place

a thumb or finger over the opening of the faucet. If your thumb or finger can completely stop the flow of water, the pipe where the water is coming from is likely damaged and will need to be replaced.

Examine the lawn for low spots

Once a lawn has thawed out, homeowners can patrol their prop-erties looking for low spots in the yard or even low spots within spitting distance of the home’s foundation. Such spots increase the likelihood of flooding. Flooding near a home’s foundation increas-

es the risk of potentially costly damage, while low spots on the lawn that go ignored can make great breeding grounds for insects, including mosquitoes, when the weather warms up. When low spots are detected, fill them in with compacted soil. Compacted soil can prevent spring rains from flooding a yard or damaging a home’s foundation.

Assessing potential property damage is a rite of passage for homeowners in the spring. Though some damage is sig-nificant, oftentimes even novice DIYers can work their homes and properties back into shape

in time to enjoy spring and sum-mer.

Home projects perfect for spring

Each spring, homeowners should inspect their gutters to ensure the gutters are still attached to their homes and free of debris.


Family Living in a Quiet Community

2 Duplex

78 - Triplex 2 Bed* Woodburning Fireplace• Back Patios w/Privacy Fence* Washer/Dryers• 900 Sq. Ft.

8 - Townhouses• 4 - 3 Bedrooms W/D Hookups• 4 - 2 Bedrooms• 2 Stories• Fenced Backyard

44 Apartments1 and 2 Bedroom

Close to Shawnee Malland OBU

* Swimming Pool * Laundry Mat

(405) 275-7744

Heating & Air Dealer

Lic. # 2044

Leader in Installation,Design & Service

624 Kickapoo SpurShawnee, OK

405 273-6617

Residential, Commercial, Heating & Air

KIZZIAHEAT & AIR

GARAGE DOORS

Andy Winkler, Owner

Serving the Shawnee Area for 21 Years

WINKLER DOOR CO. Sales • Service • Repair

BROKENSPRINGS

REPLACED

214.9100Commercial & Residential

Did you Know?Homeowners looking for a rustic or weathered look for their flooring often rely on terracotta tile, a durable and versatile material that many feel gives a home a warm and earthy feel. Terracotta tile comes in various finishes and has proven resis-tant to the growth of mold and bacteria. However, because it is very porous, terracotta tile absorbs moisture quickly, which means it must be sealed somewhat regularly to prevent cracking, dis-coloration and staining. It also must be sealed especially well when installed in a kitchen, as terracotta floor tiles are susceptible to damage from acids, alcohol, oils, and vinegar. Installation of terracotta flooring is labor intensive and is therefore best left to professionals.


Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices is here and that’s great news for you. Our new name comes with years of experience from leading real estate affi liates nationwide. It brings the promise of stability to a market that’s been anything but. And it offers you the confi dence you need when buying or selling a home.

632 N. BroadwayShawnee

405-275-8182

406 N. BroadwayTecumseh

405-598-2126

Get to know us at:

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Helloneighbor.

your local specialist

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