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May 2015

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Advice for soon-to-be graduates Graduation season, an oft-emotional time of great celebration and reflection, is on the horizon. Though soonto-be graduates are about to have one set of challenges firmly behind them, other important life decisions and experiences are looming in the not-too-distant future.

Although there’s no magic set of rules for post-graduation, the following advice can help recent gradates transition from the classroom to the ceremony and then life after school. · Attend the graduation ceremony. Graduating students may debate whether or not to attend their graduation ceremonies. Such ceremonies tend to be lengthy, and outdoor affairs can be hot and uncomfortable. However, graduation is a milestone moment that you won’t get to enjoy again. Attending graduation allows you one last academic experience, and even if that may seem like too meaningful right now, you might regret skipping the ceremony down the road. · Enjoy graduation but buckle down once the dust settles.

According to a survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, the job market for new graduates is improving marginally. But the Institute for College Access and Success notes that many college graduates will be saddled with around $25,000 in debt upon earning their degrees. Many student loans have a six-month repayment grace period after graduation, so new grads who don’t already have a job lined up may want to use some of that grace period to travel, visit distant relatives or relax and recharge before their first payment comes due. Use the time wisely, but be prepared to buckle down when the time comes to start repaying loans. · Join an alumni association. Regardless of the size of your school, chances are strong they have a local alumni association and several chapters across the country. Take advantage of these organizations to connect with fellow alumni, who can be invaluable sources of information and provide connections that may help you find a job in your field. · Read and learn new skills. If you have yet to land that first job, use some of your down time to reacquaint yourself with reading for pleasure instead of reading as part of an assignment. You also can use extra time to explore new skills, such as learning certain software or applications that may help you stand out in a competitive job market.

2 2015 MEET YOUR LOCAL SPECIALIST

· Before you decide what you want to do, you may have to figure out what you don’t like. Another way to use free time is to volunteer or apply for internships in fields you may want to work in. These experiences can help you determine your career options and find a career you find both challenging and exciting. But such opportunities can also help you determine when a given line of work isn’t for you. Oftentimes, finding the right career path takes some trial and error. Don’t get too down if an opportunity doesn’t pan out. Instead, keep your head up and take advantage of the next opportunity that comes your way.

Graduation is a time of mixed emotions. Graduates can not only use graduation season to make lasting memories with friends but also to take the first steps toward the next phase of their lives.

2015 Meet Your Local Specialist Publisher Kent Bush Advertising Christina Walker Sales Graphic Artists Reita Easley Director, Brooke Jones

THE SHAWNEE NEWS-STAR

Left to right: Sahara Lambert, Christina Walker, Wanda Westerman, and Salonne Carter.

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.

To be included in our next publication, contact Christina Walker 214-3933 christina.walker@news-star.com

Employment

“Treating you like

Being called a ‘tech geek’ is now a compliment (BPT) - Are you the family member or friend who is always called when someone’s computer breaks or starts acting up?

Do you have a person on speed dial whenever you need a website created or program updated? The old stereotype of a computer geek who’s always wearing a pocket protector and glasses with taped-together frames is quickly becoming a thing of the past.

These days, men and women who are able to speak “tech” and fix those pesky computer programs are in high demand, both professionally and among friends and family. One reason is that more than 80 percent of American households have a computer, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. When those computers don’t work, who are you going to call?

When someone calls a person a tech geek these days, it’s meant to be a compliment, according to a new survey conducted by GMI Research and commissioned by Crucial.com.

Are you single and trying to promote yourself on dating sites?

You might want to advertise that you’re a tech geek, according to the Tech-Know Meter Survey. Continued on Page 4

family”

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2015 MEET YOUR LOCAL SPECIALIST

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Continued from Page 3

Job Searching?

One in three women say they prefer their significant other be tech savvy.

“Americans recognize how prevalent tech has become in everyday life,” says Ed Walker, Crucial.com marketing manager. “These findings demonstrate that society has warmed to people who are the most capable at fixing and improving the devices we rely on, both in our personal and professional lives.”

LOOK HERE

It’s not just that people want to be friends with tech geeks - they want to become one themselves, the survey found. A majority of men and women are interested in improving their personal tech savviness, even if it’s so they don’t have to constantly bug a friend for help. And while the percentage of people who claim to be tech savvy is heavily male, a significant number of women are showing interest, too, making the term tech geek more gender neutral.

There’s a good chance you have a tech-geek friend, both in your personal life and at the office. In fact, you might have several at the office. Most industries these days rely on technology to survive, and survey respondents say job candidates with tech skills have a stronger resume than those who don’t.

Having a strong list of tech geeks handy is important if you are not one yourself. So the next time someone is introduced to you as being a tech geek, be sure to get his or her number! And if you can call yourself a tech geek, wear the title like a badge of honor - and depending on how popular you want to be, protect your cellphone number!

Spartan Staffing, a TrueBlue company specializing in staffing 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 We offer: 1. Full Time, Long Term Positions, Including Entry Level to Experienced 2. Immediate Benefits 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

For nearly 30 years, the vision of Express Employment Professionals has been to help people find jobs and help businesses find 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 find a job that fits your needs and abilities. Applicants never pay a fee at Express, and you’ll have the opportunity to earn benefits such as medical insurance, holiday pay, vacation pay, referral bonuses, and much more

3905 N Harrison Shawnee OK 74804 405-275-7575 www.expresspros.com

Visit Online Today! www.expresspros.com

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

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

Application can be submitted today by: Visiting our office at

722 E. Independence, Suite A, Shawnee, OK 74801 Emailing resume to

7218-br@spartanstaffing.com Applying online at

www.spartanstaffing.com Calling the office to schedule an appointment at

405/395-0070

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

4 2015 MEET YOUR LOCAL SPECIALIST

Meet Your Local Specialists

QUALITY LUBE

Left to right: Charles Lee, Christopher Martin, Randall Guffey, Eleazar Espinoza, Kyle Williams, Larry Carter and Zachary Sullivan

SPARTAN Lesslie Nuttall

RISING STAR GYMNASTICS Debbie Simonson

COLONIAL ESTATES

Back 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.

2015 MEET YOUR LOCAL SPECIALIST

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What’s the real cost of that auto repair? How to know if you’re paying the best price (BPT) - Do you take your car’s “health” for granted? Only when the check engine light comes on do you realize how important a fully functional vehicle is to your daily life. Feelings of fear, regret and anxiety often rush in: “Will my car break down?” “Should I have gotten my oil changed sooner?” Can I trust that I’m receiving a fair price for repairs?”

These are all reasonable concerns, according to Joe Wiesenfelder, Cars. com executive editor.

“According to Mintel, on average, drivers spend nearly $1,000 per year maintaining their cars, and that number will likely only increase as the average age of vehicles continues to get older,” says Wiesenfelder. “Even more important, a recent survey by Cars.com and Toluna found that one in three drivers don’t trust that the prices mechanics quote to them are fair.

‘Expensive’ and ‘stressful’ are the top words that come to mind for many consumers when they’re thinking about car maintenance and repairs.”

Knowledge is power, but for many consumers, car maintenance can be shrouded in mystery. Many don’t know which mechanic to go to, how much to pay or if the price they’re being quoted is accurate. Thankfully, tools and resources are available to help drivers confidently navigate the automotive service and repair process. Here are a few expert tips, resources and busted myths to arm you with the information you need to make informed, confident decisions about car service: 1. You probably don’t need to change your oil every 3,000 miles. Due to technology advancements, many auto manufacturers recommend chang-

QUALITY LUBE & AUTO 4438 N. Harrison Shawnee, OK

405-878-9992

ing oil at intervals of 7,500 miles or more for new cars.

2. Does a dirty air filter really hurt performance? A clogged air filter won’t significantly affect fuel economy, but it can reduce acceleration from 6 to 11 percent, according to a U.S. Department of Energy Study. For that reason, it’s a good idea to periodically visually check the engine air filter.

3. Cars.com has launched a new “Service & Repair” feature that provides a fair price estimate for different types of service, helping ensure drivers never overpay. The online tool also helps drivers find local service providers and offers reviews from actual customers to help them find a quality mechanic.

4. Drivers expect the tires that come with their new vehicle to last a long time, but tire life depends on many factors, including: the quality of the tire, its treadwear rating, whether it is an all-season, summer performance or winter tire, the type of vehicle and where and how it is driven.

5. Service engine? If the check engine light comes on and has a steady illumination, that indicates a possibly serious issue, and it should be dealt with quickly by a mechanic. If the check engine light is flashing, find a place to park the vehicle and turn the engine off as quickly as you safely can. Ignoring your check engine light increases the likelihood of additional problems.

For more information, tips and to learn more about Cars.com’s Service & Repair tool, visit www.cars.com/auto-repair.

Auto Residential Commercial Hours M-F 8-6 Sat 8-12 Ph. (405)432-5202 • (405)765-2139

1125 N. Kickapoo Shawnee, OK 74801

Services Offered • Storm Door/

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Owners: Danny & Michelle Barton 6 2015 MEET YOUR LOCAL SPECIALIST

Great Service & Value Are Always In Style at

UNITED MOTORS Stop in and see why our customers love us!

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1405 N. MILT PHILLIPS SEMINOLE, OK (405) 382-6130 or (800) 310-6130 2015 MEET YOUR LOCAL SPECIALIST

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Meet Your Local Specialists

EXPRESS EMPLOYMENT

Harmony Crane, Carmon Hudson, Tom Cooper, Elizabeth Hughey and Staci Hascall

MULTI-COUNTY INSURANCE Greg Wall

CIMMARON APARTMENTS Heather Burris

CHRIS RICK STATE FARM INSURANCE

Kelli James, Chris Rick, Kasey Long and Sarah Fisher

8 2015 MEET YOUR LOCAL SPECIALIST

5 lawn mowing safety tips so you can enjoy your free time One thing owners of zero turn mowers should be aware of are the safety guidelines - designed to ensure that an afternoon spent mowing the lawn won’t result in injury. Toro provides the following safety tips to help keep homeowners safe:

5. Solo riders only - Zero turn mowers are designed to seat only the operator of the vehicle. It isn’t safe to allow children to sit anywhere on the vehicle.

1. Wear appropriate clothing - Loose clothing and hanging jewelry should be avoided when using a zero turn mower. Instead, wear shoes that cover the toes, long pants, and hearing and eye protection.

2. Avoid obstacles and drop-offs - Riding lawn mowers are designed for flat and unobstructed lawns. If you have a pond, drop-off or slope greater than 15 degrees, use a push lawn mower near these areas.

3. Let machine cool when adding fuel - Always add fuel to your zero turn mower before starting the machine. If you need to add fuel during the middle of mowing your yard, let the machine sit for 15 minutes before opening the tank for refueling.

4. Keep an eye aware - Always look for children, pets or objects on the lawn when mowing with a zero turn mower.

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

Heating & Cooling Residential / Commercial 1990

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ANNIVERSARY

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2700 N. Hwy 99 • Seminole, OK 74868

(405) 382-5600

“Our customers should expect to get our knowledge and expertise as part of the complete package.”

–Lenard Mathews, Owner 2015 MEET YOUR LOCAL SPECIALIST

9

Meet Your Local Specialists

SHAWNEE CARE CENTER

Etta Ladd, LaDonna Almon, Cheryl Berry, Phyllis King, Megan Scott, Terri Harjo, Gayla Watts, Janie Pollard, Yvetta Alderson and Tanisha Talton

ASPIRE HOME CARE Starla French

GLASS ACTION

Danny and Michelle Barton

10 2015 MEET YOUR LOCAL SPECIALIST

Your how-to guide to outdoor entertaining (BPT) - The end of cold weather signals the change of seasons, a move from indoor to outdoor activities and the perfect time to throw a great party. But before eagerly sending out those first invites, take a few moments to prepare for your upcoming event by following these three easy steps to hosting a fantastic summer soiree: 1. Pick a great location Location, location, location. Just as when you are buying or selling a home, location plays the most important part of throwing a great outdoor party. Think of your outdoor space as an extension of your home. Investing in a beautiful and functional deck provides a location sure to please for many upcoming years and parties. Commercial products offer party planners many amazing options including low-maintenance plastic composite boards that mimic expensive hardwoods, like the Envision series by TAMKO Building Products, Inc. “Envision’s dramatic color variation and random wood-grain patterns across the entire deck is truly unique to the industry,” said Bill Koll, TAMKO director of decking and railing.

2. Enjoy the weather This may seem obvious but no one’s going to feel like joining the Conga line at your outdoor party if its 40 degrees and raining. So do your research beforehand.

Mother Nature can be fickle and there’s always a chance for inclement weather as long as the event is outside but you can greatly reduce your chances of having to cancel or relocate by simply looking at an extended forecast.

3. Add some color Nothing says summertime like bright color. Think oranges, yellows and reds to give an added feeling of warmth. This can be done in the form of a brightlycolored shade umbrella, some well-placed patio cushions, festive patio lights or even last-minute painted flower pots spread liberally over the deck. You can also impress your guests by incorporating Pantone’s color of the year, Marsala, into your deck party decor for a fresh, trendy ambiance.

For more ideas on how to create a fresh and inviting outdoor entertaining space, visit http://www.tamko.com/Decks-Docks-Railing/EverGrain.

A Whole New Look for Your Home

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12 2015 MEET YOUR LOCAL SPECIALIST

The disappearing act: How to go from being credit invisible to credit visible (BPT) - Are you credit invisible?

You may have never heard this term before, but if you are credit invisible, then you’ve certainly felt its affects.

Those who are credit invisible lack a credit score due to non-existent, limited or dated credit histories. More than 30 million Americans have been unable to get a credit score at one time in their lives according to VantageScore Solutions LLC, a credit score model developer. This group of people - the credit invisibles - fall prey to this category primarily because they either:

pay cash for large items versus financing. Flash forward to that person wanting or needing to finance an unplanned item or event; they often find they have lost their credit score due to non-credit usage. So as you can see, credit invisibles can easily be your neighbor, a son or daughter, family member or a friend.

Across the nation, there are an estimated 30-35 million credit-invisible Americans typically not scored by conventional credit scoring models.

Based on research commissioned by VantageScore Solutions, this number is significantly higher than consumers initially estimated. In fact, half of Americans estimated the number of credit-invisible Americans to be less than 25 million; clearly showing the problem is larger than most people realize.

Continued on page 14

* lack a credit history as a young adult (41 percent); * avoid credit and/or rely on cash (22 percent); or * lack a credit history when moving to the United States (16 percent).

A few examples of those who are credit invisible include students who just started building their credit files, people who only make cash purchases and don’t own a credit card, and veterans who have just returned to the United States and haven’t used credit in years. Another example of how a consumer can become credit invisible is the retiree who may

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2023 South Gordon Cooper Drive • 273-0202 2015 MEET YOUR LOCAL SPECIALIST

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Continued from page 13 Creating credit magic So how do we help credit invisible consumers become visible? There are effective and safe methods that consumers can use in order to establish credit and thus become more scoreable.

Open a secured credit card. A secured credit card is a credit card issued by a mainstream bank, credit union or credit card issuer. Consumers have to apply for the account which requires a deposit that will open up a line of credit usually in the amount of the deposit. As a true extension of credit, an issuer can report the account to credit reporting agencies. Credit scoring models can use this information to generate a credit score.

Having and maintaining a high credit score is a foundational element of personal finance. If you are credit invisible, this can cause higher financing rates or even a loan rejection. That’s why simple steps to building credit can help, not only to get you in the practice of paying off debt consistently, but also to get you on the right track to becoming more credit visible to lenders.

There are many other ordinary activities that can impact your score. The Consumer Federation of America and VantageScore Solutions offer a website to learn more at www.CreditScoreQuiz.com. The website is also available in Spanish at www.CreditScoreQuiz.org/Espanol. You can also visit www.yourvantagescore.com to learn more about credit scoring.

Become an authorized user on someone else’s credit card. An authorized user is someone who has been added to a cardholder’s credit card, giving him or her access to the cardholder’s line of credit. Most credit card issuers report the activity of the account to the authorized user’s credit reports. And if the account has always been paid on time and has a low balance relative to the credit limit, then it will benefit the authorized user’s credit profile. Conversely, also be aware that missed payments and high balances will negatively impact both the cardholder and the authorized user.

Take out a credit builder loan. Credit builder loans are modest loans normally less than $1,000 - issued by credit unions to a borrower. While the borrower pays off the loan over a compressed period of time, the lender reports that activity to the credit reporting agencies, thus helping build a credit report.

Shawnee Colonial Estates Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center

Joy in the Journey

Define Your Retirement

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

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

(405) 273-7661 535 W. Federal Shawnee 14 2015 MEET YOUR LOCAL SPECIALIST

1905 N. Bryan Avenue • Shawnee, OK

405-273-0925

Primrose Villas, Independent & Assisted Living PrimroseRetirement.com

5 critical questions small-business owners must ask before retirement (BPT) - Small businesses are the backbone of the American economy. In fact, the number of small businesses in the United States has increased 49 percent since 1982, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration, and the 23 million small businesses in America today account for 54 percent of all U.S. sales.

“For many people, owning a small business is part of the American dream - although it takes long hours and extreme dedication, it’s very fulfilling to build something from the ground up,” says Douglas Dubitsky, vice president, Guardian Retirement Solutions. “That being said, even the most devoted small-business owner wants to retire eventually, and the process requires a lot of planning that is unique to being an independent worker.”

What is the main strategy small-business owners are using to fund their retirement? The Small Business Owners Retirement Readiness Study from Guardian found that many small-business owners plan to sell their businesses to get the money needed in retirement. Thirty-five percent of respondents are counting on the sale of their business to be financially prepared for retirement. The problem is that few

- only 17 percent - have identified potential buyers for their business.

All small-business owners can do more to prepare for retirement and feel confident in their future plans. However, the study uncovers that female small-business owners are more likely to acknowledge that they are not as confident and financially prepared for retirement as their male counterparts (45 percent vs. 56 percent). Overall, if you own a small business and are starting to think about retiring, there are several things that should be addressed now to successfully prepare for your golden years. Dubitsky suggests you start by asking these questions: 1. What is your vision for retirement?

Take some time to thoroughly think about what you would like for your retirement years. How do you want to live and what do you value most? There are several questions you need to ask yourself as you prepare for this journey. On www.myretirementwalk.com, you can take a “Vision test” to assess how you may approach planning for this long-term Continued on page 16

Shawnee Care Center Since 1996, Aspire Home Care has kept its finger 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.

Come see how we can improve your quality of life!

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2015 MEET YOUR LOCAL SPECIALIST

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Continued from page 15

journey.

2. When do you want to retire?

Do you want to retire in five or 15 years? Some small-business owners have spouses who are already retired and therefore the need for a solid exit plan is even greater.

3. What will become of your business?

Do you plan to sell the business or transition ownership to a family member? If you are a co-owner, will you sell your share of the company to the other owner? Do you want to stay involved in any capacity afterward? Who will help to ensure a seamless transition? Create a business succession plan and modify it as necessary as time passes.

4. Which financial professional is your best ally for retirement planning?

The right financial professional can provide expert insight to help you develop a comprehensive plan that addresses your needs and goals, particularly to help you build a retirement income strategy. Make sure this individual creates clear steps for how each goal can be achieved. Ultimately, think about what sources of guaranteed income are set up to cover your core expenses in retirement (such as health insurance, living expenses, etc.).

5. Do you know how long your retirement will last?

If you are successful in selling your business, then how do you make that “windfall” last throughout your retirement so you do not outlive your money? People are living longer healthier lives and that retirement can be as long as 20-30 years. During retirement you’ll need an income plan that can last for an unknown time period.

“Small-business owners are risk-tolerant and feel that having their own business is the best way to create the wealth they want,” says Dubitsky. “However, it is paramount that these individuals build an exit/retirement strategy to meet their needs during a 20 plus year retirement while ensuring their desires for the future of their business are fulfilled.”

Preparing for your retirement, years beforehand, is the foundation to a worryfree retirement.

16 2015 MEET YOUR LOCAL SPECIALIST

Did you Know?

Baby Boomers make up the largest generation of Americans born in United States history. Boomers include anyone born between the years 1946 and 1964, as the number of births began to rise as World War II veterans returned home from battle. The greatest number of Baby Boomers were born in 1957, when numbers peaked at 4,300,00. That equates to roughly 8 children born per minute throughout the year. By 2019, the last of the Baby Boomers, or those born in 1964, will be eligible for many senior benefits offered to people age 55 and up. Ten years later, most will be eligible for retirement.

Are you overpaying to be underinsured?

(BPT) - If you own a home, vacation property, boat, art or other valuables, you likely understand the importance of insurance. What you might not know is there’s a good chance you’re overpaying for that insurance, and furthermore, it’s likely not providing the coverage you really need.

Most financially successful people who insure their assets with carriers geared primarily for the average U.S. household overpay for coverage, according to an ACE survey of independent insurance agents. Furthermore, the survey found that coverage is often inadequate, leaving their wealth unnecessarily exposed to the risk of severe financial loss.

“It’s a shock to many families with substantial assets that they are overpaying for inadequate protection,” says Jim Williamson, president of ACE Private Risk Services. “The reason this occurs is people frequently fail to update their coverage as they build wealth.”

Unfortunately, unless people experience a severe loss, they never realize their agent and carrier no longer have the expertise, insurance coverage and services to fully meet their needs. By then, it’s too late. In order to get the right coverage for your assets while paying appropriate premiums, it’s best to take a proactive approach.

The first step is to conduct a personal risk review. Risks tend to grow alongside wealth and situational complexities make each person’s needs unique. A sound insurance program should be developed with an independent insurance agent or broker who has experience working with high net-worth families. Learn more at www.aceprs.com.

Three important risk assessment areas to discuss include: Physical and financial assets Make a list of all properties, cars and recreational vehicles that need coverage. High-value jewelry or art collections should be assessed as well. Additionally, reviewing financial assets is important so the agent can determine net worth and recommend the correct liability coverage.

Occupation, activities and family status Communicate your career and where you work to your insurance agent. Do you work from home? Do you serve on any boards of charities? Do you employ a nanny or other household staff? Additionally, discuss the needs of your family, including safety concerns or age-related issues.

Tolerance for risk Think about your personal viewpoint on insurance. Do you have it mainly to serve as protection against catastrophic loss or would you prefer it to cover small losses as well?

In many cases, families discover they need more liability coverage and better protection for their home and valuable collections, while costsavings found elsewhere in the program keep total premium about the same. In fact, 51 percent of the agents from the ACE survey said that the cost of a newly structured program with a high net-worth carrier was usually 5 percent less than the cost of the previous mass-market carrier.

Williamson notes these top ways to save: Increase deductible

Agents report 81 percent of families likely have homeowners and auto insurance deductibles that are too low. You will pay substantially more for smaller deductibles, yet oftentimes wealthier families are able to cover higher deductibles in the event of an incident. For example, the ACE Platinum Portfolio policy that insures a $1 million home with a $2,500 deductible versus a $500 deductible saves about $900 a year.

Package discounts The survey found 62 percent of families likely do not take full advantage of discounts earned by placing multiple policies with one carrier.

Lesson: Resist the temptation to have your auto, home and liability insurance with separate carriers. Spreading policies across carriers can cause insurance gaps and eliminates opportunities to save by packaging policies together. Packaging discounts can be as high as 10 percent.

Loss prevention credits Half of the agents surveyed believe that families overlook credits available for safety systems. Safety systems such as burglar alarms, water leak detection and power backup systems can reduce the cost of insurance coverage by 30 percent or more. Rehabilitating plumbing, electrical and heating systems in older homes can result in additional premium credits.

“The best way to get the right coverage is to work with an experienced agent who can provide expert counsel based on your unique situation,” says Williamson. “They will be able to recommend the right options and investigate discounts so you can get more for your insurance dollar.”

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405-273-2720 Fax: 405-273-0177 624 W. Independence Suite 108 1 Block W. of Kickapoo, Shawnee OK www.mcicins.com 2015 MEET YOUR LOCAL SPECIALIST

17

Create the perfect outdoor kitchen space with these easy projects (BPT) - Now that warmer weather is here, you want to spend as much time outdoors as possible - and that includes mealtime. But what if your outdoor kitchen space is lacking?

Worry not! There are several easy, affordable projects that can help you transform the area into the perfect cooking and entertaining area. Give these projects a try to recreate your space.

* Start with the grill. Your grill will be the focal point of your cooking area and you’ll need to determine whether gas, charcoal or propane is right for you. If expense is a concern, propane is a more cost-effective fuel than charcoal and it doesn’t require running any lines to your grilling area, providing you with the same grilling space and fewer expenses.

* Build a barbecue cover. Give your kitchen a beautiful outdoor shelter by building a barbecue cover from Western Red Cedar. This natural wood is resistant to rot, decay and insects, and it will look great no matter what the weather brings, turning a beautiful silver grey patina if left to weather naturally. In addition, building the cover is easy - simply follow the nine-step process found at RealCedar.com.

* Find the perfect light. Looking to make your outdoor kitchen an area everyone wants to be in, even at night? Forget the deck light and opt for ambient lighting options instead. Track lighting can be strung across your space easily

18 2015 MEET YOUR LOCAL SPECIALIST

to make the kitchen a welcoming environment. And if you want to be more unique, you can find simple instructions online for building wine-bottle torches or Mason jar lamps.

* A place for guests to dine. Enjoy the food where it was made by building a dining table and chairs from Western Red Cedar. Building a table is easier than you think, and red cedar can be finished anyway you like. This allows you to create furniture perfect for a more traditional or modern kitchen.

* Provide a little shade. Make those summer afternoons enjoyable and comfortable by providing some shade for your guests - and for the cook as well. Patio umbrellas are a helpful addition to any seating area. To cover a larger space, you could also opt for an all-encompassing retractable awning that will provide shade when you need it and peel away when everyone wants a little sun.

Many people mistakenly believe that outdoor kitchens are luxury items for only the wealthy, but that is no longer true.

Any of the easy projects listed above can help you reimagine your space into the outdoor kitchen of your dreams.

To find more beautiful options for improving your outdoor space, visit RealCedar.com.

Actress Brenda Strong has ‘The Other Talk’ (BPT) - Fifty is a major milestone in a woman’s life: from physical changes, to becoming an empty-nester, to new homes or careers, it can be a time to re-focus on one’s self and gain a new sense of freedom. During this time, one change that women may not anticipate is postmenopause.

“Until recently, I was unaware that many women are uncomfortable or embarrassed to discuss symptoms of postmenopause, and therefore, suffer in silence,” says Emmy-nominated actress Brenda Strong, who is known for her roles on Desperate Housewives and Dallas. “That’s why I welcomed the opportunity to work with Pfizer on the Let’s Talk About Change campaign to help transform the way we think and talk about postmenopause and empower women to take action to find relief.”

As part of the “Let’s Talk About Change” campaign, Strong is featured in the short video, “The Other Talk,” which uses humor to help raise awareness about the symptoms that occur during menopause and postmenopause. Strong encourages women to change the conversation about women’s sexual health and postmenopause, and start an open and honest dialogue about what they’re experiencing.

She also encourages women to take the following steps

Continued on page 20

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to help manage the physical changes that happen after menopause and change their mindset about aging and postmenopause.

Menopause, Hormonal Disorders and Women’s Health in New York City. “Don’t wait - if you’re experiencing postmenopausal symptoms you should have a conversation with your partner so they understand what you’re experiencing and talk to a healthcare professional to find the treatment you need.”

Learn the facts about symptoms

Keep a sense of humor

Menopause is a time of natural change in a woman’s life when her body stops producing estrogen, typically around age 51.

While most postmenopausal women are aware of hot flashes, night sweats and mood swings, fewer have heard of the symptoms of postmenopausal vaginal atrophy, which include vaginal burning, itching and dryness, increased urgency in urination and painful sexual intercourse.

Postmenopause is a normal, natural event - not a disease or life-threatening condition, so why not have a little fun with it?

Laughter has been shown to be a form of stress relief and may help improve one’s mood and well-being. Everyone has moments when they feel embarrassed or self-conscious, but laughing can help turn a negative into a positive.

Continued from page 19

With the average age of menopause at 51, women living into their 80s are living nearly one-third of their lives in postmenopause. There are many ways to manage symptoms, including medications and lifestyle changes.

Start open and honest conversations These changes are perfectly normal, and in fact, at least onethird of women experience some vaginal symptoms after menopause. Women should be open and honest with their partner and describe their symptoms in detail with a healthcare professional to find the treatment that’s best for them.

To watch and share the funny video, “The Other Talk,” visit www.YouTube.com/LetsTalkAboutChange. Tips for women to get the conversation started with their doctor and partner as well as more information about postmenopause, visit: www.

LetsTalkAboutChange.com.

The health information contained herein is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace discussions with a healthcare provider. All decisions regarding patient care must be made with a healthcare provider, considering the unique characteristics of the patient. The information provided is intended only for residents of the United States.

“It’s important to remember vaginal atrophy is a treatable, medical condition and women don’t need to suffer in silence,” says Dr. Michelle Warren, NAMS certified menopause practitioner and founder and medical director at the Center for

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Decorating a home office?

3 productivity-enhancing principles (BPT) - It’s a common piece of advice from effective home-based workers: start each day as if you were going to work in an office outside your home (translation - take a shower and don’t work in your jammies). The philosophy behind this tidbit is easy to understand. By dressing professionally, you’ll feel more professional and your productivity and quality of work will keep pace.

The same axiom can apply to your home office. Is it tucked in a dark corner of the spare bedroom? Is your desk beside a bed covered in old toys? Is your filing cabinet stuffed in the closet under clothes that no one has worn since the first Bush presidency?

If your home office doesn’t feel professional and uplifting, how productive and happy will you be spending eight or more hours a day there?

Decorating your home office isn’t an art, but following some basic principles of office design can help create an organized, effective and productivity-enhancing space.

Choose a wall color that facilitates focus.

Even if your home office will be in the guest room that you just painted last year, it may be a good idea to repaint. Not only does a fresh coat of paint make a room feel energized and new, repainting gives you the opportunity to put a color on the wall that’s office-appropriate.

In an interview by Chris Bailey of the blog “A Life of Productivity,” color psychologist and author Angela Wright suggests that your home office color scheme needs to match the type of work you do because different colors create different effects. For example, Wright says, blue might be stimulating if you do a lot of mental work in your home office. Additionally, yellow could encourage creativity, and green might be soothing if your work is particularly stressful and balance is important.

Luxuriate in light.

lights.com or energystar.gov to learn more about energy-efficient skylights.

If your home office happens to be located in a renovated attic space, roof windows, which are very much like skylights but are in-reach, can offer natural light and fresh air plus access to the roof for debris removal, maintenance or for emergency egress.

Organize with attractive storage.

If your idea of home office storage includes the cardboard boxes you used to transport files from the last job you had outside your home, it’s time to revisit your organizational plan. A cluttered, disorganized home office can cause you to misplace important documents and can make you feel overwhelmed.

As more people have begun working from home, office furniture manufacturers have branched out from the sterile-looking metal storage units ubiquitous in workplaces across the country. Today, it’s easy to find attractive storage options that fit with virtually any home office decor.

If you just can’t find a file cabinet that speaks to your soul, why not try some alternative storage options? Move that beautiful sideboard you inherited from grandma - that just never fit anywhere else in your house - into your home office and use it for filing. Not in love with any of the desk options available at your local office store? Hit an antique shop and find an antique desk or even a dining table that you adore. Remember to keep furnishings and storage solutions size-appropriate for the room so your home office doesn’t feel crowded.

Working from home offers many advantages, including the opportunity to decorate your home office the way you want. By following some basic steps and incorporating your own personality, you can create a home office where you’ll be productive and happy throughout the work day.

“You are stuck in your office - albeit at home - all day, working and slaving away, staring at the same wall and some bland office furniture you got at a garage sale,” writes Herman Chan in Home Business Magazine. “Spending all those hours in the same spot, it would behoove you to splurge on one luxury piece.” Chan suggests an inspiring piece of furniture, but you can also create a luxe effect - with only a modest “splurge” - by decorating with lighting elements such as a skylight.

“The mental and physical health benefits of natural light and fresh air are well documented,” says Ross Vandermark of VELUX America, makers of Energy Star-qualified skylights. “Energy efficient venting skylights not only make your home and your home office feel more open, airy, bright and productive, they can help you control heating, cooling and lighting costs, too.”

Add a solar-powered fresh air skylight and an energy-efficient solar-powered blind to your home office and the products, as well as the installation, can be eligible for a 30 percent federal tax credit as a green home improvement. Ground-floor offices can benefit from SUN TUNNEL tubular skylights. Visit whysky-

2015 MEET YOUR LOCAL SPECIALIST

21

The many uses for vinegar Check your kitchen pantry and you will probably find a bottle of vinegar. While this substance can add much-needed tang to favorite recipes and even improve the leavening function of some baking ingredients, its power extends far beyond the kitchen.

Health and beauty

Many are surprised upon learning how much vinegar can do. A sour-tasting liquid that contains acetic acid, vinegar can be used as a cleaning product and an influential ingredient in many recipes.

Vinegar also is relatively inexpensive, making it a cost-effective home staple.

Vinegar is handy for relieving the pains associated with sunburns and jellyfish stings. Dot irritated areas with vinegar to relieve pain and itching.

If you are ready to get more from that versatile vinegar in your kitchen pantry, explore the following ways to put it to use.

Some people say that vinegar can be used as an appetite suppressant. Using it on prepared foods may help you to eat less.

Because vinegar can act as an antibacterial, gargling it can alleviate some throat ailments. Even if it can’t prevent illness, a vinegar gargle can soothe throat soreness. Apple cider vinegar also may help soothe an upset stomach. Use two teaspoons of the vinegar to one cup of water.

Cleaning Vinegar is an effective cleaning fluid, perhaps best known for producing streak-free windows. Vinegar also can dissolve dirt from painted walls and remove grime from woodwork.

By boiling 1/4 cup of white distilled vinegar in the microwave with a cup of water, you can loosen splattered-on food and deodorize the appliance. Vinegar also can be used to deodorize garbage disposals, coffee makers and kitchen drains. It’s an effective means to removing pet odors from carpeting as well.

Some people have used vinegar to soften skin and remove corns from feet. It also may dissolve warts. Be sure to check with a doctor before using vinegar to verify its safety with regard to your particular situation.

In addition to each of these uses, vinegar is handy in the laundry room, helping to remove stains and rinse detergents from fabrics more easily.

Around the bathroom, use vinegar to remove soap scum film from shower doors and tile surfaces. Remove stubborn toilet bowl stains as well. Corrosion and hard water can clog showerheads, and by soaking the shower nozzle in vinegar overnight, you can dislodge any material.

You can rely on vinegar when cleaning up around your home office as well. Vinegar can help clean sticky scissor blades or remove ballpointpen marks from surfaces. A vinegarand-water solution can be used to clean keyboards and other electronic equipment. Apply with a damp cloth rather than spraying the solution directly onto the electronics.

Lawn and garden Vinegar makes an effective weed deterrent and can kill grass that grows between the cracks on sidewalks and driveways.

Acid-loving plants, such as rhododendrons or azaleas, can benefit from a little vinegar mixed in when watering.

If you want to keep ants at bay, use vinegar when cleaning outdoor patio furniture or spray it around areas that are susceptible to ant infestations.

You may find the ants steer clear of the smell.

Vinegar can not only be delicious in salad dressing, but it also can make windows squeaky-clean.

22 2015 MEET YOUR LOCAL SPECIALIST

Did you Know?

Damage to a lawn may be indicative of various problems. Everything from insects to rodents to the family pet may be responsible for causing burnt patches, holes and other eyesores. Getting to the bottom of the problem is the first step in remediation. Burning and discoloration of the lawn is often a result of high concentrations of dog urine pooling in one area. Diluting the urine by hosing down areas of the lawn can clear up many problems. Birds, raccoons, skunks, moles, and other rodents may feed on grubs that reside just under the thatch of the lawn, and animals may tear up lawns in search of this delicacy. Treating the grub problem usually alleviates damage caused by animals.

Mole crickets are another common lawn destroyer.

These insects resemble crickets, but they burrow beneath the turf to feed on plant roots. The mole crickets can push up channels of turf as they burrow, exposing roots to the elements and causing the grass to die. Getting rid of the insects canrevitalize the lawn.

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