blog

Passages

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 00:17:00 -0700

It is with deep sadness that we inform you our fellow Rotarian Dan Staudt passed away on Monday, February 13, 2012. A memorial service will be held Thursday, February 23rd, at 1:00 p.m. at All Souls Unitarian Church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Center for Individuals with Physical Challenges or the Clarehouse. Please keep Dan's wife, Susan, and family in your thoughts and prayers.

Tim and Barbara Nall Grow with We B Trees

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 08:41:00 -0700

Tim and Barbara Nall have been caring for Tulsa's trees for more than 21 years. Their business, We B Trees, was created from a lifelong passion for nature.

Before meeting Barbara and falling in love, Tim was attending Oklahoma State University to learn everything that he could about forestry. Following graduation, he returned home to Tulsa where he began a career for several companies as an operational engineer. "I then had the opportunity to work for the City of Tulsa Urban Forestry Department. There, I became a certified arborist through the International Society of Arboriculture."

When he met and married Barbara he decided to begin his own business in the community. "We offer everything that revolves around taking care of established trees. This might include pruning, diagnosis and treatment."

Oklahoma poses weather that can be harmful to trees and Nall recommends a few steps to keep them healthy, especially during the winter months. "Keeping trees pruned is very important. It prevents wind from damaging the branches and also helps them stay light during ice storms. The weight of ice and snow has less effect when there are fewer unnecessary branches." Fertilization also keeps trees looking their best. Nall spends a lot of time with each customer to make sure that their trees will look just how they want them to.

Barbara says that this has been a very rewarding experience for both of them. "It's a nice family business and I love our partnership. We are both excited to get up every day and go to work. I love getting comments from customers who are happy with our team and the way that their trees look."

They both believe that it is important to be involved with others in the community that love trees as much as they do. We B Trees is a member of the International Society of Arboriculture, Tree Care Industry Association, Home Builders Association of Greater Tulsa, American Society of Consulting Arborists and the Better Business Bureau of Tulsa.

Tim adds that they also enjoy being involved with helping others in the community. He is a member of the Rotary Club of Tulsa and enjoys other service work. "We have done quite a lot of work with the Southwest Tulsa Chamber. I'm on the board of Up With Trees, so we help maintain the trees throughout the metro."

Posted on 12/5/11

Centerpiece Globe Arrives, Installed on Rotary Plaza

Sun, 04 Dec 2011 22:20:00 -0700

A milestone was reached December 4 when a 12-foot, 3,000-pound bronze globe arrived in downtown Tulsa and was installed on the Rotary Club of Tulsa's Centennial Plaza.

The globe, which represents Rotary's presence in 220 countries around the world, will be the centerpiece of Rotary's $1 million gift to the people of Tulsa. Other bronze sculptures by artists Jay O'Meilia and David Nunneley will also be installed on the Williams Center Green location.

"This is a great day for Rotary and a milestone in a five-year journey to create a public plaza for Tulsans to enjoy for generations," said Bob Lengacher, co-chair of the club's centennial project. "We are excited that the first installation was a success, and we now look forward to the installation of granite hardscaping, along with the other bronze figures."

Four additional bronzes that represent the good works of Tulsa volunteers - and Rotarians specifically - will circle the globe. They include Serving Tulsans, Freedom from Polio, Better Understanding through Youth Exchange, and Drinkable Water Worldwide.

Completion of the plaza is expected by January in time for the Rotary USA Large Club Conference, which is being hosted by the Rotary Club of Tulsa. Presidents-Elect and Executive Directors of the 75 largest clubs in the country will assemble at the Hyatt Regency Tulsa - next door to Rotary Plaza - for the group's annual conference. Official dedication of the plaza will occur in the spring, with the current and two former Rotary International Presidents expected to attend.

The $1 million project was entirely funded by the "downtown" Rotary Club and its members. The club will officially celebrate its first 100 years in 2015.

Besides Bob Lengacher, others serving on the Centennial Committee include co-chair Tim Colwell, Club President Phil Lakin, Keith Bailey, Bob Saied, Bob McKenzie, Chuck Wilson, Del Dreyer, George Shahadi, John O'Connor, Karen Keith, Linda Bradshaw, Steve Clark, Tom Klenda, Scott Petty, Rod Sands, and John Stava, who also serves as construction chair.

Alaback Design Associates designed the plaza, and Hunter Construction Management is the general contractor.

Posted Decmeber 5, 2011

GuRuStu Group Honored in Professional Competition

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 12:29:00 -0700

Shown at left: Rotarian Stu McDaniel and Developer Benjamin Allen of the GuRuStu Group

Boise, Idaho- The International Festivals & Events Association (IFEA) paid tribute to Tulsa International Mayfest in Tulsa on Oct. 3, 2011 during the IFEA/Haas & Wilkerson Pinnacle Awards Ceremony held at the IFEA’s 56^th Annual Convention & Expo in Fort Worth, Texas, where they were presented with two awards in the prestigious IFEA/Haas & Wilkerson Pinnacle Awards competition. Awards were won in the following categories:

GOLD - BEST PRESS/MEDIA KIT

GOLD – BEST MISCELLANEOUS MULTIMEDIA (www.mayfestmobile.com by GuRuStu Group)

GuRuStu Group is owned by Stu McDaniel, a member of the Rotary Club of Tulsa. Sponsored by industry leader Haas & Wilkerson Insurance, the professional competition draws entries from among the world’s top festivals and events. Winning entries came from organizations as diverse as the 500 Festival, Indianapolis, Ind.; Bayou City Art Festival in Houston, Texas; Dublin Irish Festival, Dublin, Ohio; MAIN ST. Fort Worth Arts Festival, Fort Worth, Texas; Issaquah Salmon Days, Issaquah, Wash.; Portland Rose Festival, Portland, Oregon and the Pasadena Tournament of Roses, Pasadena, Cali International contenders included such diverse event organizations as Canada Place, Canada; Ham Pyeong Butterfly Festival, South Korea; World Gourmet Summit, Singapore; Edmonton Heritage Festival, Canada; Ludwig Van Beethoven Easter Festival, Poland; Rotterdam Festivals, The Netherlands; Festival Lent, Slovenia and Sentosa Development Corporation, Singapore.

Awards were handed out in 69 different categories in total including Best TV Promotion; Social Media Site, Event Program; Commemorative Poster; Overall Sponsorship Program; Environmental Program; Educational Program, Children’s Programming; Media Relations Campaign; Overall Merchandising Program; Festival & Event Management Degree Programs to the highest award reflecting the best overall festival & event in the world – the Grand Pinnacle.

“We would like to congratulate all of our Pinnacle winners for their outstanding entries into this year’s competition,” says IFEA President & CEO, Steven Wood Schmader, CFEE.

Headquartered in Boise, Idaho, the International Festivals & Events Association (IFEA) is The Premiere Association Supporting and Enabling Festival & Event Professionals Worldwide. For a complete list of winners and more information on the IFEA, go to www.ifea.com.

Congratulations to Stu McDaniel!

Tulsa World of Gymnastics Celebrates 35 Years

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 10:18:00 -0700

The Tulsa World of Gymnastics is celebrating its 35th birthday this year. Owner Linda Bradshaw says about the Tulsa World of Gymnastics 35th milestone, "It feels great to be 35! I was 34 years old when our gym opened 1976 and to see the growth we've achieved over the years, the wonderful relationships we've built with kids and their parents, and to be able to see how our students have moved on so successfully in life is so gratifying. This is a very special time for us."

Reflecting on the over three decades in business, Bradshaw says, "Over the years I've looked at our successes and it's clear that our successes are a direct result of our dedicated and wonderful staff, and the endorsement that parents give us. Without parents' consistent endorsement of our success over the years we wouldn't still be in business."

Recounting a major milestone in the gym's history, Bradshaw says, "Back in 1993 I was trying to buy a larger facility that had air conditioning. I was $30,000 short. I called a parent meeting and explained the situation. The next day I had $30,000 in checks from parents on my desk." She continues, "These parents know who they are, and hopefully how much I appreciate their support. They've played such an important role in the growth and success of Tulsa World of Gymnastics. The support we have received over the years is just amazing."

Bradshaw says, "Tulsa World of Gymnastics offers something for everyone, and I love coming in here every day. Children never change. They want to play and have fun and learn. And parents want us to continue to work with kids because they see the tremendous benefits, both physically and the life lessons they learn." When asked about the most important lessons children learn, Bradshaw says, "Our students learn to persist, to keep trying and to reach goals. They learn the value of self discipline and hard work, and they learn to apply this in other areas of their lives." She gives the example of a former law student who credits her years as a student at Tulsa World of Gymnastics as the reason she was able to pass the Bar exam. Bradshaw explains, "She said that the persistence she developed in gymnastics is what got her through it."

Tulsa World of Gymnastics is an ideal place for kids to get fit, stay fit and to learn the life lessons that will enable them to be successful in the future. The state-of-the-art facility has a main gym, a Kinder-Lites gym for younger children, and a complimentary fitness facility for parents to work out during their kids' lessons, a sibling play area and a pro shop.

There are a variety of get fit opportunities such programs for parents and babies, the toddler's Perpetual Motion program, Kinder Lites for three to five year olds, age appropriate developmental programs, all levels of gymnastics, a competitive team, and classes for special needs.

Looking to the future, Bradshaw says, "There is so much we can accomplish, and an important priority is getting more kids in shape. The rise in childhood obesity in this country is alarming. Parents need to ensure that their kids get the physical exercise they need."

Gymnastics is an ideal option because it involves such a variety of different movements, strength, coordination and agility. In fact, says Bradshaw, studies have shown that the type of physical movement required by gymnastics provides brain stimulation due to the type of movement it involves.

"Children are our future," says Bradshaw, "and we need to make sure we provide them what they need to succeed, including good physical health. They can get this, and learn important life lessons and skills at Tulsa World of Gymnastics in a fun, positive, and dynamic atmosphere. I encourage everyone to visit us and see what a positive difference our programs can make."

Tulsa World of Gymnastics is located at 7020 E. 38^th St. For more information, visit http://tulsagymnastics.com/

Photos by TINA MILLER

GREAT TEAM: Tulsa World of Gymnastics owner and founder Linda Bradshaw with her husband Wayne Bradshaw at their successful facility.

HEALTHY KIDS

FUTURE GYMNASTS

Posted November 30, 2011

Rotarians Host Business Visitation Day

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 10:10:00 -0700

FIRST MATE FINANCIAL ADVISORS: Jeri Barrientos, standing third from left, hosted her Rotarian colleagues during the Rotary Visitation Day luncheon Oct. 12. Sitting at left is Rotarian Linda Adlof. Standing are presenters Amanda Gallaway; Floyd Hudson, an Advanced Planning Specialist; Barrientos, a Financial Advisor/Succession Planner; and Leanne Barlow, an Estate Planning Attorney. Sitting on the right are Rotarians Brad Anthamatten and Trey Walling.

JP MORGAN: Steve August, standing, of the Rotary Club of Tulsa hosted a group of his fellow Rotarians during the club's Business Visitation Day Oct. 12 in downtown Tulsa. JP Morgan is a leading financial services firm with global scale and reach. Twenty-one businesses participated in the event. At nearly 500 members, The Rotary Club of Tulsa is the seventh largest Rotary Club in the world.

Posted November 30, 2011

Karen Keith named President-Nominee

Thu, 27 Oct 2011 08:02:00 -0700

Rotarian Karen Keith has been nominated to head the Rotary Club of Tulsa for 2013-14. She would be the 100th president of the organization.

Karen, a long-time KJRH-Channel 2 news anchor and television personality, served on the mayor's staff and at the Tulsa Metro Chamber before being elected Tulsa County Commissioner. She joined Rotary in 2004 and served on the board as director-at-large. She also chaired the Program and the Public Relations/Marketing committees. She is a Paul Harris Fellow and a Club Foundation Fellow.

Other nominees introduced at the October 26 lunch meeting include: Carl Vincent, Budget Chair, Secretary-Treasurer-elect; David Downing, Sergeant-at-Arms; and Gene Martin, Trustee. Rotarians will vote on one of the following for Director-At-Large: Melissa Clark, Erik Ortega, Tina Miller (see nominee details below). Tom Klenda will serve as Club President during the 2012-13 Rotary year.

The slate - which will be voted upon December 7 - includes nominations for Secretary-Treasurer-elect, Sergeant-at-Arms, Rotary Club of Tulsa Foundation Trustee for a five-year term and Director-At-Large for a three-year term. Absentee ballots will be available by request at the November 23 and 30 Rotary meetings.

Any member of the club may add a nominee to the proposed slate by the second Wednesday in November by submitting in writing the nomination signed by 25 members of the club.

In addition to the slate Rotarians will vote upon, President-elect Klenda will appoint five Service Directors and a Board Chair to serve in 2012-13.

Members of the 2011 Nominating Committee included Past-Presidents Tim Colwell, Cory Nickerson, Del Dreyer, and Bob McKenzie; President Phil Lakin, President-elect Tom Klenda, and current Directors-at-Large Brenda Melancon, Trish Kerkstra and John Rains.

Information about the nominees:

Karen Keith
President-Nominee Karen Keith joined the club in 2004. A Club Foundation Fellow and Paul Harris Fellow, she has served the club in many capacities, including past Director, Public Relations/Marketing Chair and Programs Chair. Her classification is City Administration, and she currently serves as a Tulsa County Commissioner.

Carl Vincent
Joining in 2004, Carl is a Club Foundation Fellow. He serves as the Vocation Service Director this year. His other Rotary service includes Above & Beyond Awards Chair, Public Relations and Community Action Team committees. His classification is Real Estate/Leasing Commercial. Carl is General Manager of Ruffin Properties.

David Downing
Sergeant-At-Arms Nominee David Downing joined the Rotary Club of Tulsa in 2008. His classification is Advertising/Agency. He is Principal, Owner of AcrobatAnt, LLC. He has served on the Henry P. Iba Citizen Athlete Awards and the Public Relations/Marketing Committees. David's artistic and management skills spearheaded the recent redesign of the weekly meeting stage setup. David is a Club Foundation Fellow.

Gene Martin
Rotary Club of Tulsa Foundation Trustee nominee Gene Martin has been a member of the club since 1981. A recipient of the James G. Saied Service Above Self Award in 1999, he currently serves on the Large Club Conference 2012 Committee. His past service includes Club President 1992-1993, Secretary/Treasurer, Chairman of the Board, Partners-in-Education, Henry P. Iba Citizen Athlete Awards, Large Club Conference 2005 and Long Range Planning Committee Chairs. He is a Club Foundation Fellow, Allan Edwards Society member, and Paul Harris Fellow. His classification is CPA-Special Services.

Melissa Clark
Joining in 2008, Melissa currently serves as Club Service Director. Her classification is Advertising/Public Relations. She is Manager of Internal Communications at Williams. She has also chaired the Public Relations/Marketing Committee and serves on the Programs and Public Relations/Marketing committees. In addition, she has coordinated the year-in-review video presentation for the past three years, highlighting the club's local and global service.

Tina Miller
Joining in 2006, Tina is a Club Foundation Fellow and a Paul Harris Fellow. Her classification is School Gymnastics. She is the Administrative Director of Tulsa World of Gymnastics. Her Rotary involvement includes service as Vocational Service Director, Vocational Chair, and Yearling Chair. Tina also serves as one of the club's photographers, documenting both weekly meetings and our Water Well drilling project in Nicaragua.

Erik Ortega
Joining in 2002, his classification is Computer/Software Consultant. Erik is President of Austral, Inc. and has served as Technology Chair. He also serves on the Budget, Camp Enterprise, Club Foundation Grants, Technology and Youth Exchange Committees. Erik is a Paul Harris Fellow and a Club Foundation Fellow.

Posted October 27, 2011

Rotarian and Former Mayor Kathy Taylor Profiled in Urban Tulsa

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 06:05:00 -0700

If you thought you knew everything there was to know about fellow Rotarian and Former Mayor Kathy Taylor, you might want to read the article in Urban Tulsa by Arnold Hamilton, published August 17, titled "Taylor Made--Former Mayor Kathy Taylor just can't stand still; As a charter member of the creative class, there is no such word as "retirement" in her lexicon." It's a great read. CLICK HERE to read the article.

Club Breaks Ground for Rotary Plaza

Wed, 17 Aug 2011 10:30:00 -0700

$1 Million project on Williams Center Green will salute “the volunteer spirit of Tulsa” with five bronze sculptures on a landscaped plaza.

After three years of site negotiations and fundraising, the Rotary Club of Tulsa has broken ground on a $1 million gift to the people of Tulsa.

Ground was broken August 17 for the Rotary Plaza on Williams Center Green. The plaza – 90 feet in circumference – will be a landscaped “front door” to the green, utilizing granite and recycled brick from the existing location.

The sculptures – by noted Tulsa artists Jay O’Meilia and David Nunneley – will be the centerpiece of the plaza. The bronzes recognize the role of volunteerism, specifically the role Rotary has played in Tulsa and around the world over the past 100 years. A granite column will tell visitors about Tulsa’s history and emergence as “America’s Most Generous City®.”

“This is a milestone event in the 98-year history of our club,” said President Phil Lakin. “We are pleased to start construction and look forward to the dedication this fall.”

Rotary Plaza will be located on the southwest corner of the Williams Center Green, along Third Street, midway between Main and Boston.

“We certainly could not be breaking ground today without the generosity of the Rotarians in our club,” said Bob Lengacher, Centennial Committee co-chair. Bob explained that when final construction figures came in, “we were about $170,000 short.” That amount was raised in four days.

The landscape plan calls for trees, an irrigation system and dramatic nighttime lighting. The large bronze globe will be positioned in the center of the plaza, with the individual bronze sculptures on granite bases surrounding it. Benches will provide resting places for visitors to the plaza.

Approvals for this gift of public art to the City of Tulsa were given by the Tulsa Arts Commission as well as the Tulsa Parking Authority, which is the owner of the Williams Center Green and the parking garage located underneath.

“By early fall, this project will be completed and Tulsa will have an instant downtown landmark,” said Tim Colwell, Centennial Committee co-chair. “We are expecting leading RI dignitaries to attend, along with many community leaders and Rotarians from throughout the region.”

Tim saluted the club’s Centennial Committee for continuous counsel, reviews and fundraising. Those members include Phil Lakin, Tom Klenda, Keith Bailey, Linda Bradshaw, George Shahadi, Del Dreyer, Bob McKenzie, John Stava, Steve Clark, Cory Nickerson, John O’Connor, Bob Vassar, Allan Edwards, Scott Petty, Chuck Wilson, Rod Sands, Karen Keith and Bob Saied.

Alaback Design Associates is the plaza designer. Phos Lighting & Electrical provided the lighting design and Hunter Construction Management, Inc. is providing construction management services.

THE SCULPTURES

Accompanying descriptions will be etched in granite.

Centerpiece Globe – A 12-foot bronze globe, symbolizes Rotary’s worldwide presence with 33,000 clubs in more than 220 countries.

Serving Tulsans – A bronze figure of a Rotarian mentoring an elementary student. This sculpture salutes Tulsa volunteers who serve the community.

Freedom from Polio – A bronze figure of a running girl, tossing her crutches aside. This sculpture reflects Rotary’s quest to eliminate polio from the earth.

Drinkable Water for All – A bronze figure of a Nicaraguan woman carrying water from a well drilled by the Rotary Club of Tulsa. This continuing international project supports Rotary International’s goal of providing drinkable water to all in impoverished nations.

International Understanding through Fellowship and Exchange - A bronze figure of a high school student, carrying a book and wearing a backpack. This sculpture reflects the various international scholarship programs of Rotary and the hundreds of Rotary Youth Exchange students who traveled to and from Tulsa.

New President Urges Rotarians To Step Out Of The Room

Wed, 13 Jul 2011 08:14:00 -0700

An unoccupied table in the middle of the otherwise noisy lunchroom this year will symbolize Rotarians who are out in the community serving charitable organizations at that very moment, says the new president of the Rotary Club of Tulsa.

"Instead of coming to the noon meeting, 10 Rotarians will be serving a local charity," says Phil Lakin, whose presidency runs from July 1 of this year through June 30, 2012. "This year, I want us to set a goal to get out of this room. To get through those doors and influence our city, this world, even this club."

Citing the many projects members of Rotary Club of Tulsa support, including Celia Clinton, Shop with a Cop, Water Wells in Nicaragua and the international fight against polio, Lakin says Rotarians are doing great work. But the need in Tulsa continues to grow. As CEO of the Tulsa Community Foundation, Lakin says he is exposed on a daily basis to the needs in Tulsa, needs he wasn't aware of previously.

He shared the following local statistics to make his point during his inaugural speech on July 6.

In 1970, 82 percent of Tulsa-area kids lived in married households. Today, that number is 65 percent.
In 1970, 11 percent of Tulsa-area families were headed by single females. Now that number is 21 percent.
In 1990, Oklahoma ranked 21 out of 50 states in children living in poverty. Now it is 42^nd.
Today, 82 percent of Tulsa Public Schools' kids qualify for a free or reduced-fee lunch. Many don't eat on the weekends.
38 percent of babies born in Tulsa are born to unmarried mothers.
24 percent of babies born in Tulsa are born to mothers with less than a 12^th grade education.
Oklahoma is the only state where people are living fewer, rather than longer, years.
Life expectancy in north Tulsa is 14 years less than for those who live in south Tulsa.
Oklahoma incarcerates more women than any other state in the U.S. - at twice the national average.

"How can we help improve life for people so that these statistics are what they should be, not what they are?" Lakin asked the crowd.

Take a quick look at Lakin's background and it's easy to see why he cares about Tulsa so much. He moved to Tulsa in 5^th grade, graduated from Jenks, married his wife and is helping to raise their three sons. He leads the largest community foundation in the United States, right here in Tulsa. Under his leadership, TCF has grown from $117,000 in assets to approximately $4 billion today.

Lakin is as comfortable in a business suit as he is in hiking gear. In fact, he is a seasoned mountain climber, having reached the summit of all of Colorado's 53 ranked 14,000 foot peaks.

He has been a Rotarian since March 2000. He is a Paul Harris Fellow and a Club Foundation Fellow. On July 6, he assumed the role as the 98^th president of Rotary Club of Tulsa.

In addition to serving locally, Lakin laid out two other initiatives he wants to accomplish during his presidency at Rotary Club of Tulsa. They are to provide more services abroad and to serve the internal needs within the club, including improving the retention rate of members. This is a problem for Rotary clubs across the nation, with 42 percent of new members leaving within the first three years.

"If we focus on our motto we will become more active, we will become more relevant, we will become more involved," he said. "Let this be our year. Let this be a year that changes how and why we Rotarians serve above self."

Iba Awards Features Legends Knight, Lilly and Taylor

Wed, 01 Jun 2011 07:52:00 -0700

Just a few weeks to go and tickets are selling out quickly for this year's Iba Awards, which will feature Coach Bob Knight as the keynote speaker. Knight, who was the head coach of the 1984 gold medal olympic basketball team, named Henry Iba honorary coach of the team. Knight had great respect and admiration for Iba. Jason Taylor, with the Miami Dolphins for 12 years and most recently the New York Jets, and a favorite on Dancing with the Stars is the male recipient. Female recipient is soccer legend Kristine Lilly, one of the most decorated female athletes in U.S. history.

A Chairman's Award will be presented to Stephen Wampler, the first person with cerebral palsy to climb the 3,000-foot rock formation, El Capitan, in California's Yosemite National Park. It took him six days and more than 20,000 four to six-inch pull-ups to reach the top.

Area sports celebrities, coaches, former athletes and athletic directors will be attending including Bill Blankenship, TU football coach; Joe Castiglione, OU athletic director; Bubba Cunningham, TU athletic director; Sunny Golloway, OU baseball coach; Pat Jones, former OSU football coach; Eddie Sutton, formerOSU basketball coach and Iba Awards advisory board chairman; and Tulsa's own Grady Nichols will provide musical entertainment.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the Rotary Club of Tulsa Foundation, which provides financial assistance to worthy organizations and projects in Tulsa and surrounding communities as well as internationally.

The event will be held at the Renaissance Tulsa Hotel and Convention Center on Monday, June 6 with a black tie celebrity reception starting at 5:30 p.m. followed by the awards banquet at 7 p.m.

Reservations are required and are still being accepted. Tickets are $175 per person, table sponsorships are available. For information, contact the Rotary Club of Tulsa at 918-584-7642 or online at www.iabawards.com.

Ron Butler Awarded Club's Highest Honor

Sun, 22 May 2011 16:31:00 -0700

Rotarian Ron Butler has been named recipient of the "James G. Saied Service Above Self ... and Then Some" Award, the club's highest honor.

With a thunderous standing ovation, the surprised Rotarian accepted the award at the April 6, 2011 meeting. President Bob McKenzie declared, "There is no other Rotarian in our club so dedicated, so committed and so deserving of this honor."

A member of Rotary for 20 years, Ron has served in many club capacities, including positions at the committee level, on the board, and as an officer. With his creative partner and wife, Margaret, Ron has been the backbone of the club's Henry P. Iba Citizen Athlete Awards since the event's inception. Not only did Ron design the 25-pound Iba award itself, but he and his staff manage the entire event production, including planning, executing promotions and publicity, scripting and creating all the printed materials associated with the club's signature event.

A graphic designer and co-owner of Butler & Butler, Ron created the new Rotary Club of Tulsa logo and graphics in 2007. Additionally, whenever there has been a graphic design need, Ron has cheerfully stepped up. His creativity is reflected in the logos and graphics for the Tulsa Rotary Foundation and the Allan Edwards Society, the Rotary Club of Tulsa/Beryl Ford Collection, Rotary's Elite Repeat, the club's centennial project, Camp Enterprise, membership development, and the numerous framed special awards, posters and banners we've required overnight. Regularly, Ron serves as club photographer.

Outside of the club, Ron helped Southside Rotary with creative needs for its annual Henry Bellmon Awards.

Last year, Ron was recognized by then-President Del Dreyer as the 2010 Rotarian of the Year. "Ron sets an example for us all - a model for how we are to serve and live as Rotarians," said Del.

In addition to his contribution of time and talents, Ron is a Club Foundation Fellow and a Paul Harris Fellow.

The "James G. Saied Service Above Self ... and Then Some" Award was created by Past-President Jimmie Saied, in 1977. Jerry Cornelius was the first recipient and others have included Allan Edwards, Bob Lengacher, Hal Calhoon, Jack Maxwell, Gene Martin and Bob Vassar. The late Mike Chittom was the last to receive the honor, in 2005.

PHOTO: Rotary Club of Tulsa President Bob McKenzie presents the "James G. Saied Service Above Self...And Then Some" award to Ron Butler at the April 6 meeting.

Rotarian Linda Bradshaw a World Class Roper

Mon, 16 May 2011 05:51:00 -0700

Linda Bradshaw of Tulsa, a member of the first graduating class of the Will Rogers Memorial Museum Ropers (docents), earned distinction as a 2010 "World Class Roper," logging 309.50 volunteer hours. Since 2008, as a volunteer, she has donated more than 525 hours.

A member of a pioneer Rogers County Cherokee family, Linda Chambers Bradshaw, with her husband, Wayne, operate Tulsa World of Gymnastics. She is a member of the Will Rogers Memorial Foundation, which is in the process of exploring creating a public-private venture to assure continued funding for the museum.

She is instrumental in organizing a monthly gathering of all volunteers, called "Camp Fire," which meets to share experiences of the past month and comments of visitors to the Will Rogers Memorial Museum or Will Rogers Birthplace Ranch. Both are open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., 365 days a year, and attract visitors from all over the world.

The Bradshaws started Tulsa World of Gymnastics in 1976 and expanded to more than 1,300 students from pre-school age to adult fitness. A new facility was opened in 1993.

She has been a member of the Rotary Club of Tulsa since 1997. Her daughter, Tina Miller, is also a member of the Rotary Club of Tulsa.

Photo Courtesy Will Rogers Museum

CLAREMORE CONGRATULATIONS: Rotary Club of Tulsa member is congratulated by Will Rogers Museum Executive Director Steve Frager for her accomplishments as a world class roper.

Rotarians Serve Nicaraguans With Water Wells

Mon, 09 May 2011 07:12:00 -0700

Six members of the Rotary Club of Tulsa, plus a son, a spouse and two church friends, 10 in all, departed Tulsa International Airport on February 23 for the Rotary Club of Tulsa's annual visit to Nicaragua to view the club's International Water Well Project.

The trip was originally scheduled earlier this year but was delayed due to the winter snowstorms. With airline tickets changed and hotel reservations confirmed, the small delegation departed, loaded down with many items, including parts for the drilling rig, donated shoes, school supplies and international friendship candy.

The mission was to check, investigate, view, evaluate, affirm Rotary International partnerships and confirm the progress of the investments of the Rotary Club of Tulsa. The group was optimistic to be on site as the drilling rig was operating. They hoped to witness the precious gift of water brought into remote barrio areas.

Upon arriving late at the Managua airport after the three-plus hour flight from Houston, the group immediately checked into the Best Western Hotel across the street from the airport. Early the next morning, the delegation boarded a small air-conditioned transportation bus, secured luggage on top, and departed for the first stop in Rivas, nearly four hours away.

Although it is in a geographical area heavy with lava, 12 successful wells have been drilled there, resulting in many friendships. Monsignor Alfonso Alvarado Luco, Popoyuapa community leader and acting intermediary for the potable water project, took the group into communities to view schools, churches and visit with the small barrio community leaders where the Rotary wells have changed lives. Surprised, the group was told by welcoming ladies that they were "useful servants." Requests for more wells, especially one for a school, were presented to Water Well Chairman David Peterson. This was just one of many requests to the group as it made its way to other small barrio communities.

Nicaragua's national newspaper, La Prenza, sent reporters and a photographer to cover the visit. The newspaper gave the visit impressive publicity.

The message from the Nicaragua friends would be the same everywhere the group went. A choreographed blessing would come at each well site:

"First we thank God"

and then

We thank God for you"

Moving along down the road, the delegation arrived at the community of Monte Oret for a ribbon cutting ceremony for a new well. Balloons were strung between trees and chairs were arranged for the guests as dogs roamed in an out and chickens became part of the landscape.

The ceremony began with songs, prayers and speeches. A tiny girl cut the ribbon with a small pair of scissors from a special basket. The water well was now "officially" dedicated. Grateful hearts were expressed for the "life" that water brings. The well will become a "hub" for hundreds of the group's Nicaragua friends.

Throughout Nicaragua, the second poorest country in Central America, the critical needs for potable water are evident everywhere. Visitations at Chacaraseca, Quesalguaque, San Lorenzo, La Estacion Communit and Telica show efforts of the Rotary partnerships. The benefits of "life" that water brings would ring true throughout each of the many stops along the way.

Over the course of six days the hearts of the group would be touched by the expressions of gratitude from the habitants of each barrio community.

In addition to the inspections at previously drilled sites, a presentation of medical supplies provided by Rotary District 6110 MSNI, was made at the hospital in Leon. The medical supply needs remain critical and the doctors, while appreciative of the donation, had additional requests for hospital tables for surgery.

The schools in the region need desks, paper and chalkboards; the requests seem to never end.

The highlight of the trip for everyone was the witnessing of the drilling rig in action. Waiting for hours in the hot Nicaraguan sun, watching the drillers under the supervision and training of Mickey Moore, members of the group would be rewarded with water shooting from the ground as it covered the dry, cracked parched ground.

The dedication of two of the wells was very emotional. One was in honor of Kenny Duncan, head chef at First United Methodist Church. The other was in honor of Beth Peterson, David Petersons' mother who passed away just as the delegation was preparing to leave. Her last request was that David make the trip...regardless.

Over 200 successful water wells have been drilled in Nicaragua since 2002. The work continues thanks to generous Rotarians throughout the District and seventy participating clubs. Special recognition goes to driller Mickey Moore for his valiant efforts as he continues to train the Nicaraguan crews.

For additional Information, see: www.tulsarotaryweb.com, www.OwnAWell.com

Photos by TINA MILLER

ROTARIANS AND FRIENDS: Members of the Water Well Delegation included Rotarians Linda Bradshaw, Tina Miller, Brenda Melancon, Jack McGlumphy, David Peterson and his wife Elaine Peterson, Rotarian Fred DiLibero and his son B. J. DiLibero, and friends of the group Jeff and Tyler Nevins. They are posing with friends from Nicaragua.

FEATURE PHOTO - COOL WATER: Nicaraguan villagers enjoy fresh water provided by a well drilled with the help of the Rotary Club of Tulsa.

Tulsan Serving As 4-State Rotary Governor

Thu, 28 Apr 2011 15:04:00 -0700

Tulsan Wallace Williams is helping to make a difference by serving as 4-State Rotary Governor.

It wasn't love at first sight for Wallace Williams and Rotary. In fact, it took a bit of prodding from Chuck Wilson, past president of the Rotary Club of Tulsa to get him to a meeting. But once he did, Williams was smitten. CLICK HERE to read the full GTR news article.

Design of Rotary Plaza Unveiled

Wed, 06 Apr 2011 07:30:00 -0700

Design drawings of our club's centennial gift to the City of Tulsa -- a downtown Rotary Plaza -- were unveiled at a recent Rotary meeting. We hope to break ground on the Williams Center Green project after Mayfest, with completion expected in early fall.

Landscape architect and Southeast Rotarian Dan Alaback presented the design that not only recognizes 100 years of Rotary in Tulsa, but the celebration of Rotary's accomplishments internationally. In addition, Tulsa's standing as "America's Most Generous City" for volunteerism and charitable contributions will be highlighted in the plaza. Dan's firm, Alaback Design Associates, was contracted to do the hardscape and landscape design.

Five bronze sculptures are the centerpiece of the plaza, which will be located along Third Street, on the southwest corner of the green. At the center, a 12-foot bronze globe will be symbolic of the international scope of Rotary. Other sculptures will reflect the humanitarian role of Rotary in Tulsa and around the world.

They include:

• Freedom from Polio ... a sculpture in bronze of a girl casting aside her crutches
• Drinkable Water for All ... a Nicaraguan woman carrying fresh water from a well
• World Peace Through Understanding ... a student carrying a backpack and books. This represents Rotary's International Youth Exchange and Ambassadorial Scholar programs
• Mentoring Youth ... A Rotarian mentoring an elementary school student, which is symbolic of Tulsa Rotary's highly successful Celia Clinton partner-school relationship and youth mentoring by Rotarians around the world

Accompanying inscribed tablets will explain the significance of each bronze sculpture and how Rotary is making a difference here and internationally. Nationally recognized sculptors Jay O'Meilia and David Nunneley were commissioned to create the bronzes.

The 80-foot circumference plaza will feature a variety of hardscape materials. Pavers with sandblasted letters will be placed in a circular pattern around the project. The combined pavers will read: ROTARY CENTENNIAL PLAZA ... SERVICE ABOVE SELF ... CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF THE ROTARY CLUB OF TULSA. Additionally, the plaza will include benches, dramatic lighting and large diameter trees.

Incoming Rotary President Kalyan Banerjee of India has been invited to help dedicate the completed project. In his invitation, President Bob McKenzie explained the significance of the $800,000 gift to Tulsa: "This setting - and the magnitude of the project - will create an instant local landmark. But importantly, the celebration of our great organization through public art will make Tulsa's Rotary Plaza a Rotary International landmark, a destination for traveling Rotarians who will feel pride when experiencing this recognition of the world's largest service organization."

The next steps are the City of Tulsa's approval of the design, creation of final design drawings, and then the groundbreaking, the construction and finally, the installation of the sculptures.

Posted: April 6, 2011

Tulsa hosts OKC visitors

Wed, 23 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0700

For their Visitation day to Tulsa, OKC Rotary Club members were greeted by some of our Club's members at the Mayo Hotel and were treated to a complete tour of the facility on Wednesday, March 23, 2011.

Posted March 23, 2011

Volunteer Mentors Needed to Support Veterans with Disabilities Entrepreneurship Program

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 12:37:00 -0700

Service Above Self. As Rotarians, it is our motto. It is our goal. It is the ideal. We have pins, cards, and posters to remind us. We are justifiably proud of the service we can provide to our Club and local and international communities. There are others, however, who also epitomize the creed. Think, if you will, of American Veterans. Although not their motto per se, they have in fact lived the motto. And, for many who became disabled while in service to our Country, they do not need external reminders. They carry their reminders as part of their very being every day.

On January 6, 2010, Steve Wood announced that the Board of Directors of the Rotary Club of Tulsa approved the Oklahoma State University's Veterans with Disabilities Entrepreneurship Program as a Club Project. This program is specifically for American Veterans with a service connected disability resulting from participation in Operation Iraqi Freedom and/or Operation Enduring Freedom. Applicants were required to demonstrate a strong interest in entrepreneurship and the desire and commitment to start a business. The application process was open to Veterans across the country and dozens of applications were received. Thirty-six deserving Veterans have been selected to participate in the eight-day residency in Stillwater, Oklahoma from January 30-February 6, 2010. During this time, the Veterans will receive intense training in the "nuts and bolts" of business ownership through workshops and lessons. In addition, before coming to Stillwater, the Participants will undergo approximately seven weeks of self-study facilitated by online discussion. After they leave Stillwater, they will participate in a twelve month ongoing mentorship from O.S.U. entrepreneurship experts.

Rotary Club of Tulsa seeks additional Volunteer Mentors to associate with these Veterans. The Rotary Mentors will personally meet the Veterans during their residency period and provide ten months of ongoing mentorship through convenient methods such as e-mail and telephone communications. The Rotary Mentors will provide advice and guidance from their own experiences, but will also provide the Veterans with access and connection to other individuals within Rotary with specialized experiences. In addition, the Rotary Mentors will assist the Veterans in making a connection with a home club Rotary Mentor. This outreach effort provides our Club with an opportunity to support and connect with Veterans from all branches of the service. In addition, we will be able to assist O.S.U.'s efforts to take this program to other universities and Rotary Clubs around the country and serve as a national catalyst for leading edge American Veterans programs.

A "kick-off" meeting will be held on Monday, January 25, 2010, at 5:30 p.m., at the O.S.U. Tulsa Campus, North Classroom Building #227, to introduce the Veterans Entrepreneurship Program team from O.S.U., discuss the Mentor's role, and answer questions from those interested in serving as Mentors. If you or someone you know might be interested in serving as a Mentor, please attend this meeting or visit www.entrepreneurship.okstate.edu/vep for more information. For questions, contact Steve Wood at steve.wood@okstate.edu, 688-6176; Eric Culver at culaw@hotmail.com, 625-2832; or John Stava at john@stava.com, 260-7221.

Posted February 8, 2011

Rotary Club of Tulsa Presents Above and Beyond Awards

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 11:27:00 -0700

At its fourth annual Above and Beyond Service Awards, the Rotary Club of Tulsa honored a firefighter who performed fast-acting heroism to rescue an elderly motorist swept under in a flood, and a Tulsa police child crisis detective who has performed "Service Above Self" for children at home and at work for many years.

Founded in 2008 by the Rotary Club of Tulsa, the Tulsa Firefighter and Police Officer of the Year honorees are nominated by their peers based on exceptional performance and community involvement.

Seconds after responding to a rescue call, Firefighter Jason Large dove under water to save a 62-year-old male who was trapped in a vehicle during a flash flood at 21st Street North and Mingo on Sept. 21, 2009. Standing with water up to his nose, Large thrust the man onto his shoulder and carried him to high ground and safety.

Detective Darren Carlock is a 25-year veteran of the Tulsa Police Department and the most experienced and senior investigator in the Department's Child Crisis Unit. During his ten-year tenure as a child crisis investigator, Carlock has successfully worked thousands of cases in which children were the victims. With a reputation for his tireless pursuit of the truth, he routinely goes above and beyond normal protocol to find justice for victims who are often too young to speak for themselves. He and his wife have also been foster parents for several years.

Tulsa Police Chief Chuck Jordan and Tulsa Fire Chief Allen LaCroix applauded both winners for their passion, humility and bravery. Honorees were recognized - along with past winners - at a Rotary Club of Tulsa luncheon.

Thanks to the generous support of event sponsors, $1,000 was donated in honor of each winner to the Tulsa Firefighters' and Tulsa Police Officers' memorial funds. Thank you to our presenting sponsor Tulsa Community Foundation. Thanks also to Drummond Law, PLLC, Jarvis Incorporated, MAC Systems, Pendergraph Fire & Security Systems, Stanley Security, Butler & Butler and KJRH2 News.

Each winner received a trophy and will be extended complimentary stays at the Doubletree Hotel-Downtown. Each winner's department shift will also be honored with catered dinners from the Rib Crib at 51st and Memorial.

The 2011 Above & Beyond Service Awards were made possible by Rotary Club of Tulsa's Above & Beyond committee: Tim Colwell, Mark Cortner, Tom Droege, Roger Dunham, Laura Elmore, Jerry Emmons, William Gaddis, George Hamilton, Elizabeth Hunt, Kacey King, Doug Padgett, Lori Roberts, Frank Sanders, Jalaa Stultz, Carl Vincent and Ron Walker.

Posted January 25, 2011

Neal Named Tulsan of the Year

Wed, 05 Jan 2011 11:25:00 -0700

Kudos to Mike Neal, named Tulsan of the Year by Tulsa People in their January 2011 issue. Click here to see article.