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COVER ART CONTEST WINNER

We made it! If you are reading this, it means we all survived the end of days allegedly prophesied by the Mayans as well as the planetary lineup that was also going to spell doom and gloom for us all. So where do we go from here? The way I see it, we have two choices: we can let out a collective sigh and go back to whatever we were doing previously, or we can decide that maybe there was a lesson to be learned here and do a bit of change in how we live our lives and how we look at the earth. Truth be told, there is no telling when or where it all ends. What if you found out that you had a disease or your exact amount of time left on this planet was much shorter than you anticipated? Would you spend that time panicking about the day-to-day scenarios that may or may not come to fruition? Would you spend that time worried about the same things you worried about previously? Chances are that everything else would come to a grinding halt and you would spend that time giving those you love the things you meant to leave them with warm hands instead of cold ones; you would also make sure you tell those same people how much you love them. Too bad that it takes a major catastrophe to make us aware that we dont tell others how we feel enough of the time - which is pretty sad when you think about it. Whats even worse is that when a crisis is over, we rarely learn anything from the event. We just turn around and continue down those same paths that lead us to nowhere. Maybe what we were meant to come away with is the prophecy that our previous ways are no longer applicable; we need to do things a bit differently and revamp our perspective of the world and our place in it. It might do us all a bit of good to be bit nicer to this big blue ball we call home and the people who surround us. Heck, it cant hurt, right? Happy 2013 Green Country! Dont forget to hug your loved ones. Congratulations go to our winning cover artist GUY LOCKWOOD, D.V.M. who is a semi-retired veterinarian, that works in oils, portraiture, animals and wildlife living in Grove, OK. His winning painting KAYLEE; OUR LITTLE ANGEL was painted from a photo of a friends granddaughter. You can see all of our winning art entries on pages 26 & 27. Thanks to all who entered our contest.

Do you have an event we should know about? Contact us at editor@mypulsemag.com or on our website and tell us about it. We want to hear from you. Find us on Facebook: www.Facebook.com/mypulsemag www.mypulsemag.com Share your knowledge with all of Green Country If you are a professional in your field, the Pulse Pro is accepting submissions for articles on many topics. Please contact our office and let us know what you do.

The Pulse Staff


Main Phone Number: (918) 931-9981 Fax: (888) 386-5094 Sales: Lisa Pinnick (918) 316-7237 lisa@mypulsemag.com Ad design: Emmet Pedrick, ads@mypulsemag.com Layout: Juanita Lewis, presscomposing@yahoo.com Story Editor: Amy Addams, editor@mypulsemag.com

Contributing Writers
Angel Waldo - Deb Bayton Julie Wenger-Watson - Alexis Greybird Lorenzo Zoil - B. Rick Wall - Jaci Taylor Dakota Jones - Carol Marie Merritt Trent McDaniel - Jennifer Smith - Sarah Bowman Staff Photographer: Deb Bayton Produced by Pod Publications All rights reserved 2013

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The Heartbeat of green country January 2013 - Vol. 2, Issue 1

Our Communities

10 Muskogee Celebrates 11 Rogers County 12 Pawnees history is alive, Sequoyah is going to the birds 13 Pryor steps back... in time, Grove brings Spring in January 14 Washington County gets its groove 16 Tulsa floats your boat 17 To-Dos around T-town 18 Creek County celebrates Indian art 19 Ottawa keeps the Powwows comin, McIntoch matters 20 Craig County has a cow 21 Wagoner is wonderful 24 Pawhuska parades its pretties, Adair County is the place for you 25 Okmulgee offers eats for everybody, Nowatas architectural destinations

CRAZY for Casinos


Fun and entertainment all over Green Country.

22

The Eagles and Loons are coming


Seasonal bird watching opportunites abound in winter.

Going Out/Staying In

26 Cover art contest 30 Winter weather advisories 32 Pulse Pro - Getting your finances on track 34 Tripping on a Tankful 36 Health - Get off that couch 38 Art in these parts 39 Theater 40 Movies 41 TV for fun and education 42 Dining Out - Steaks 46 Live Entertainment 48 Homegrown Heroes - Volunteering 50 Recipe Corner - For a cold winters day

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Can you find the GEEK?


Look for this image placed somewhere in the magazine and win a t-shirt from the library.

Month at a Glance

52 A calendar listing of fun stuff to do

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The Pulse - January 2013 - Page 5

NOT your fathers


By Amy Addams
Northeast Oklahoma seems to be jam-packed with casinos. There are towns where the local casino keeps that town alive and just when you think there isnt room for another casino, lo and behold, a new one pops up. They are big business in these parts and without them, many of our beloved towns would be in serious financial trouble. There are many of us who do not gamble so as a rule we avoid the local casino. We also hear about perceptions of casinos and so far, none of them match the reality. Some folks think that the casino is a waste of time for a non-gambler, but the truth is very different. Many casinos have restaurants where the food is second to none, entertainment venues where nationally-known stars give the audience an up-close and personal show (for a good price) and many other amenities that many people never know about. Until now. Weve gone out and researched the casinos in NE OK and what we found might pleasantly surprise you. All this fun and it was right in your neighborhood all this time. A new casino that we should all be proud of is the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Catoosa. This is a fantastic place to have a romantic getaway for two or for a group of friends who want a break from life. You can enter the casino on Friday night and never leave for your entire visit. They have all kinds of entertainment, night clubs, golf, restaurants with all sorts of food options, a pool, fitness center and plenty of shopping. You can plan your stay around corporate meetings, weddings or reunions. Whatever you need, The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino can take care of it handily. What you may not know is that there are some other Cherokee casinos that have food and events that will rock your socks off; they are only missing the Hard Rock name attached to them. Weve included a cheat sheet to help you find your way around. Be sure and check out the new Cherokee Casino in Ramona (Washington County) as well. They have been working hard to bring great entertainment in every single month. You can see their entertainment schedule for January on page 15. Another casino chain that we are not only impressed with, but downright floored by are the Creek casinos. While the Creek casinos might not be as widely known, its the quiet ones that often astound, and the Creek casinos are just that astounding. We are talking about their food (and who doesnt like food, eh?). You can go to the River Spirit Casino and have a nice dinner out that easily competes with any high-end restaurant in the state. The Creeks took their dining to the next level with their multiple restaurants. If you are looking for a great steakhouse, Elements Steakhouse will fill your needs. If you would like to sample a multitude of foods or if you are with a group, all with different wants, then you cant miss with Visions Buffet. Visions is not your typical overcooked food meant to fill you quickly and send you on your way. Oh no, Visions is high-end dining in a buffet style. Worth mentioning is that Visions has numerous specials going on almost consistently, including a Champagne brunch on Sundays sure to excite everyone. Lastly, if you are looking for a cheap breakfast or lunch that is also ready quick, then check out Rain Bay Caf. They have a $4 breakfast special anytime and we hear its pretty dang mouthwatering. Looking for a special night away from it all? Then River Spirit has partnerships with all kinds of hotels where they will even shuttle you there so your evening can be worry free. The Osage Casinos are conveniently located all around our great area, but did you know they have music, food and monthly specials that compete with everyone else too? Oh yeah, the Osage casinos have really done their homework where entertainment is concerned. From 80s hair bands to 70s classic rock to Country to regional artists, Osage Casinos are always on the search for the best musical acts and they really do deliver. They have a buffet at the Tulsa casino where every day of the week is an ethnic specialty and they dont have a bunch of kids working in the back making the food. They have an executive chef on staff to ensure your palates happiness. Bartlesville has the Fresh Market Buffet where even the snobbiest of food critics wont find fault. Their claim to fame, fresh foods, makes them really stand out. Another thing that makes Osage Casinos buffet exciting is that they are priced competitively with any other buffet in the area. You can eat til your hearts content for around $10-$12 per person. We dont know how they do it. Miami is chock full of all kinds of casinos run by many different

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tribes. If you are looking to sample some casino offerings without venturing into Tulsa, might we suggest that you take a drive to Miami? With The Stables, Bordertown, High Winds, Buffalo Run and more all right near each other, take a chance on Miami for a day of casino perusal. The Stables, for instance, is more than just slot machines and blackjack, but youre in luck if you like either of those because with their Horseplay points and special Party Zone theyve got something special to offer. Party Zone is when over 100 machines are connected and feed into three different progressive jackpots. Anyone can win as long as theyre playing with their Gold Club Card. Youll also not want to miss eating at The Clubhouse Restaurant for Upscale American Cuisine that is not horsing around! Nearby Wyandotte has much to offer as well. Wyandotte Nation Casino boasts one of the best Chefs in the area at their Twin Bridges Restaurant. Chef Charles Bowen is trained formally in classic French cuisine, Charles has traveled extensively in Italy and lists Italian food as one of his passions. Of Polish decent, Charles also has even taught Polish cuisine classes in Austin, Texas. Hes a wonderful baker too, so if you

have a gluten craving go give Wyandotte Nation Casino a try. In Tahlequah youll find another one of the Cherokee Casinos, but dont forget to check out The Keetoowah Casino as well. Most casinos are for ages 21 and over, but one of the things that make Keetoowah Casino stand out is that one only needs to be 18 to enjoy the amenities here. So if youre under 21, that sure makes it handy to sample one of those burgers that our readers voted as one of the best in Green Country! There are many casinos we didnt mention here, but thats not because they arent worth it, its because there are so many to pick from. Its like picking your favorite star in the heavens too many to choose. For your next evening on the town without the kids, why not give a casino a chance? You dont have to be a gambler to enjoy all the Green Country has to offer, you only need to decide what you are hungry for.

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The Pulse - January 2013 - Page 7

Casinos in Gr
Casino
Osage Creek Quapaw Creek Golden Pony River Spirit

Location
Tulsa Bristow Miami Stigler Okemah Tulsa

phone #
699-7667 367-9168 540-9100 967-8364 560-6125 299-8518

Size
lg med med xl

Website
www.osagecasinos.com www.creeknationbristow.com www.quapawcasino.com www.goldenponycasino.com www.creeknationcasino.com

Music Hotel Onsite


Y N N N Y N Y N N

Rest 1 R

The Restau Y

Caf Elements S V

Osage Cherokee Creek High Winds Buffalo Run Keetowah Stables Cherokee Hard Rock Cherokee Creek-Duck Creek Eufaula Osage Travel Cherokee Lucky Turtle Wyandotte Miami Tribe Grand Lake Sac & Fox Osage Osage One Fire Osage Creek Fair Meadows Osage Choctaw Cherokee WRD Downstream Cherokee Choctaw Stonewolf Bordertown Osage Cherokee Cherokee
Cherokee

Hominy Tahlequah Muskogee Miami Miami Tahlequah Miami W. Siloam Springs Catoosa 3 Roland Creek, Beggs Eufaula Skiatook Sallisaw Wyandotte Wyandotte Miami Grove Stroud Pawhuska Skiatook Okmulgee

885-2990 207-3600 683-1825 541-9463 542-7140 456-6131 542-7884 422-5100 266-4352 427-7433 267-3468 689-9191 396-2626 800-256-2338 678-2877 678-4946 540-8670 786-8528 968-2540 699-7777 396-2626 756-8400

sm med med sm med xl

www.osagecasinos.com www.cherokeecasino.com www.highwindscasino.net www.buffalorun.com www.the-stables.com


www.keetoowahcherokeecasino.com

N N N Y N N Y

N N N

N N Y

Y R River City Creek Caf Y S Coleman H J Snack Bar The Clubho Buffet

www.hardrockcasinotulsa.com

M C

sm med
med

www.osagecasinos.com
www.cherokeecasino.com www.wyandottecasinos.com Y N N N

Back40 Ba

Twin Bridg

sm med sm sm sm m-lg lg

none www.grandlakecasino.com www.osagecasinos.com www.osagecasinos.com www.onefirecasino.com www.osagecasinos.com www.fairmeadows.com www.osagecasinos.com

N Y N N Y N Y

N N N Y Y

EndZone

N Council Oa Caf

Sand Springs 699-7723 Okemah 623-0051 (Race Track) Tulsa 743-7223 Bartlesville 335-7519 McAlester 423-8161 Claremore 283-8800 Quapaw 919-6000 Fort Gibson 207-3662 Pocola 436-7761 Pawnee 454-7777 Wyandotte 666-8702 Ponca City 765-2973 W Siloam Roland
Ramona

sm sm

www.cherokeecasino.com

space

y Stonewolf

sm www.osagecasinos.com large www.CherokeeCasino.com medium www.cherokeecasino.com


medium www.CherokeeStarRewards.com

Y N
Y

Y N
N

Deli Flint Creek Bucks Gril

The Ramon

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reen Country
Bingo Golf Course
N

Rest 2 Rest. 3 Bars


NINE18 N Y

Poker Blackjack
Y comp N Y

Address
951 W. 36th St N 121 W. Lincoln 58100 E 64th Rd 109095 Okemah St

urant

N Steakhouse Visions Buffet Rain Bay Caf Scoreboard Sports Bar Y Rosies Casino Cuisine N N Caf N N Y N Snack Bar Y House Joes Outback Grill Y N (B,L,D) N N ouse Rest Starting Gate Lounge

Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

8330 S. Riverside Dr 39 Deer Avenue 16489 Hwy 62 3420 West Peak Blvd 61475 E. 100 Rd 1000 Buffalo Run Blvd 2450 S. Muskogee Ave 530 H Street SE

22,500 sf 400 machines

McGills on 19 Champions Grill

777 W. Cherokee St. 806 West Forest Ave 6455 West Rogers Blvd
I-40 Exit 308 Y Y 100 Jackpot Place

240 machines 7400 sf

ar & Grill

Back40
Deli- Sandwich shop

ges Restaurant

EndZone N 2

Y N Y Y N Y

202 S. Eight Tribes Trail 24701 S. 655 Rd 2017 E. 15th St/Hwy 99 6455 W. Rogers Blvd 1901 N. Wood Drive 301 Blackjack Drive 4145 E. 21st St 222 Allen Road 190 games

ak Caf

3 Rivers Tavern Bar N Grill StoneWolf Deli Y Y Y Y

107 N. Georgetown Rd 54251 S. 349 Rd 73 North City View Road US Hwy 412 & 59 I-40 Exit 325
31501 US HWY 75

7400 sf 500 games 10,000 sf 6,000 sf

N k Steakhouse and River Cane Buffet ll

na Grill

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The Pulse - January 2013 - Page 9

Muskogee celebrates its soul... ...and heritage


By Jennifer Smith
Muskogee is renowned for being a place with a rich culture and history. The folks there know how to throw down and have a good time with it. It looks like they arent slowing down in January. Weve got quite a bit to tell you about, so lets get to it. We start with the Soul Food Cook-Off at the Muskogee Civic Center on Jan. 18-19 (at 425 Boston) where MLKs legacy and accomplishments are celebrated through the universal language of food. If youve never had soul food, you just gotta try it. You are in for a real treat. If you are a maker of soul food, but no one ever paid you much attention (until dinnertime), you need to participate in this special event. On Jan. 18, all cooks are welcome to a party in your honor and then you get to show off what you know on Jan. 19. If youve never had collard greens or black-eyed peas made in the soul style, youll be rushing to the store to buy some to make them at home. Theres something about soul food that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy. Its all down-home cooking done by those who have been doing this for a quite a while and really got it going on. This is part of a national competition for unknowns who do what they do so well. Find out more about this national event at www.nationalsoulfoodcookoff.com. If youve been down-home cookin your whole life, then its time to show off your prowess with a fry pan and maybe get some recognition for it. Cassandra Gaines at the Civic Center is headingup this event so you know it will be a big day of fun for the family and a great way to learn more about local cultural cuisine. On Jan. 25-26, Bull Riders, Inc. is celebrating their 2012 National Finals at the Civic Center and its a first. They promise to deliver bull riding at its best with the top 30 bull riders as well as see who takes home the crown. It happens at 7 pm both days. Find out more at www.muskogeecommunitycalendar.com. If you are looking to see a great film with a great message, then check out October Baby at the Roxy Theatre on Jan. 27 at 3 pm. Suggested donation is $10 and the message is worth every penny.

MUSKOGEE COUNTY

Do you know a vet or military member who is looking for a job? Then send them to the Muskogee Civic Center on Feb. 7 for the Military Hiring Fair happening 10:30 am 3 pm. Now is a perfect time to get that resume updated so you are sure to find the perfect position. If you are an employer looking for qualified and motivated candidates, then contact Patty Garner at (918) 682-3364 and let her know you need to be there. Stay tuned to The Pulse for more in Muskogee for February; we have heard rumors that a festival just for chocoholics is happening right here in Green Country!

RODEO
S L DAY CHOO
JANUARY 25, 2013 10AM - 12PM AT THE MUSKOGEE CIVIC CENTER $5.00 PER PERSON INCLUDES LUNCH
i A JUST SAY i
LEARN COWBOY HISTORY

NO TO DRUGS
EVENT

i
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i
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EVENING BULLRIDING OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

January in Claremore - trucks, planes and college basketball


By Julie Wenger Watson
Motorsport enthusiasts will have a heyday in Claremore this month at the Expo Center. Located at 400 Veterans Parkway, this city facility will host the Tuff Truck & ATV Racing and Demolition Derby on January 18 - 19, followed by the American Arenacross on February 1 - 2. Those who prefer their engines in the air can catch this months Okie Flyers Fly In at the Claremore Regional Airport on Jan. 6. Finally, if youre a basketball fan, check out the Rogers State Universitys Hillcats. Both the mens and womens teams have several home games in January. For two nights this month, the Expo Center will be filled with the roar of engines and the clashing of steel. On Friday night the 18th, you can watch trucks, ATVs and Razor bikes race around the arena. The following night will be full of metal crushing as the Mad Dog Derby Tour takes the stage with both full size and compact vehicles competing. For more information see www.motorheadevents.com On the last Saturday of each month, pilots from Oklahoma and surrounding states converge on Claremore Regional Airport for a pilots luncheon and a chance to show off their planes. This event takes place Jan. 26 from 11 a.m. -1 p.m. and is free and open to the public. Its a great chance to see a variety of planes and make new friends in the aviation community. For more information, call the airport at (918) 343-0931. Off-road motorcycles will race through the Expo Center on Feb. 1 - 2 on a course that includes jumps and obstacles, often soaring over 60 feet in the air. Participants will include kids on their 50ccs all the way up to the pros on their 450cc MX bikes. The FMX freestyle jump off is another highlight of the evening, and there will be a visit from Ned Dirt, the racing clown. Visit www. motorheadsevents.com for more details. For college sports fans, Rogers State University located in Claremore boasts both a mens and womens basketball program. In January, you have five chances to catch the female Hillcats on their home turf, including games against John Brown University and St. Gregorys. The men have four home games this month, too. Look for a complete schedule for both teams at www.rsuhillcats.com

ROGERS COUNTY

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The Pulse - January 2013 - Page 11

Pawnees history is still alive


By Alexis Greybird

PAWNEE COUNTY SEQUOYAH COUNTY

If you are or you know someone whose family hails from Pawnee, then it might be worth your time and effort to check out what the Pawnee County Historical Society and Museum has to offer. While their hours for winter are minimal, they are still open and will accommodate you. What they do at the PCHS is quite amazing. For the small fee of $10/hour, they will research your ancestry and grab anything they can find to help you fill-out that family tree. You need to provide the name of the person (and anything else you know is useful) and the folks at the PCHS will go through their records repository to find information to help you. If you would like to see the museum, we highly recommend it for the Dick Tracy fan, as Eliot Gould, the comic strips creator has his own little spot in the museum (with many Dick Tracy drawings) as well as a day devoted to his legacy. They also have military memorabilia, stoves from days gone by and even a mastodon bone from way back when. Included in the displays are photos of Pawnee from its early days as a Wild West oil town. All in all, its a nice way to get away from the everyday while you learn a little something.

We highly recommend that you call for hours before you run up to Pawnee, but there are plenty of places to grab a bite, do a bit of shopping and fill out the day while you are there. Find out more about Pawnee County Historical Society & Museum at (918) 762-4681. The Society is located at 513 6th Street and their Website has lots of photos to help you decide to go. Check it out at www.pawneechs.org.

Sequoyah is going to the birds


By Jennifer Smith
Despite the fact that many people are snuggled down until March, there are others who see the value of getting out this time of year to see some of the incredible wildlife to be found in these parts and the good folks at Tenkiller State Park and Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge are ready to help you find them. Starting Jan. 19, you can see real southern bald eagles nesting at Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in the morning, have a nice lunch and a hot beverage then spend the afternoon checking out the various loon breeds we have here in NE Oklahoma at Tenkiller in the afternoon. There are four kinds of loons who move in for the winter: the common, red-throated, Pacific and the yellowbilled loons all make this are home for their winter retreat. Dress warm, wear sensible shoes and bring your binoculars, camera and a thermos of coffee to see the majestic birds that migrate here every year. The show will go on every Saturday through March 2 unless travel advisories are happening, but we cant imagine a better way to spend a Saturday with the family. They will have a 25 person bus to take you to the refuge so RSVP is strongly suggested. (There is even a webcam at the eagles nest.) Their schedule is listed as Jan. 19, 26; Feb. 2, 9, 16, 23; Mar. 2 with eagle tours going on 9 am noon and loon watches at 2 pm with a two-hour break for lunch and refreshments in Vian in between. Want to know more? Then call (918) 489-5641 or (918) 4895025 for details and to RSVP. We suggest that you plan ahead because this is one trip that will fill up fast. Happy birding.

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Step back in time in Pryor


By Amy Addams
There are so many places in Oklahoma that we tend to overlook in our rush to get to the destination, never realizing that the little stops along the way are the best part of the journey. Sanduskys Market and Music in Pryor is one of those places that youd be foolish to pass up. Open since 1954, Sanduskys has a little of everything for the veggie lover as well as the music aficionado and a lot of little things in between. Its a cross between a vegetable market and a music shop with harmonicas, tambourines and pepper plants all in the same place. Depending on when you visit, you might get the not-so-rare opportunity to sit in on a jam session with the multitudes of visitors who come by quite regularly to share their music. Even the beginners can come on in and learn a little something while bagging oranges. All in all, its a guaranteed fun couple of hours where you and the family can get your fresh produce and perhaps find a hidden virtuoso. We love that Sanduskys hasnt lost its days-gone-by feel and it is sure to be fun for both adults and the kids. You can find Sanduskys at 29 S. Adair Street in Pryor or call (918) 825-2911.

MAYES COUNTY

Grove has a show to help you make it until spring


By Amy Addams
It is not easy to find things to do this time of year, but the few that are out there are truly worth exchanging pajamas for pants and the Grove Home & Garden Show is one such event. There will be cooking demonstrations, close to 100 home and garden exhibits with all kinds of cool products as well as how-to seminars to teach you some things youll need to know to get that spring plan to redecorate, landscape or remodel finally started. They have it all, including the people who can help you make it happen no matter your budget or skill level. All you need to do is get there. We heard from some folks who have gone in years past and they swear that the Home & Garden Show is a really fun way to spend the day. All you need to do is decide which project to do first. Its all sponsored by the Grove Chamber of Commerce and you can find out more at www.groveok.org or by calling (918) 7869079. The show is being held at the Grove Civic Center Feb. 8-10. The show hours are: Feb. 8: 3 pm 7 pm, Feb. 9: 10 am 6 pm, Feb. 10: 11 am 3 pm

DELAWARE COUNTY

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The Pulse - January 2013 - Page 13

A month of music, art and dance in Washington County


By Julie Wenger Watson
Bartlesville greets 2013 with a calendar full of opportunities and theres a little something for everyone this January. On Thursday, Jan. 10, Broadway in Bartlesville presents STOMP at the Bartlesville Community Center. This internationally touring percussion and dance production began as a street performance in the UK over 20 years ago. Decades later, STOMP has been performed in over 50 countries for over 24 million people, winning rave reviews and numerous awards along the way. The members of STOMP use everything from brooms and kitchen sinks to trash can lids and Zippo lighters to create a unique performance of rhythm and movement that appeals to audiences of all ages. More information on this performance can be found at www.bartlesvillecommunitycenter.com On Jan. 11 - 12, budding artists can join Mitzie McGregor for an Intro to Stained Art for Adults class. Students will learn the basics of working with stained glass and will complete a project during the two day workshop. Jan. 18 - 19, there will be an Acrylic Paint Workshop for students of all skill levels. Participants will have the chance to complete an abstract landscape while learning about many aspects of acrylic paint. If colored pencils are your artistic tool of choice, attend the Colored Pencil Workshop offered on Jan. 26 - 27. Aspiring artists will learn a number of techniques they can apply to their own creations. See www.bartlesvilleartassociation.com for more information. If live music is your thing, youre in luck. The folks that bring us the wonderful OK Mozart Festival each June are also presenting a series of House Concerts, intimate opportunities to experience a wide range of music in a variety of settings. On Jan. 17, enjoy Hillbilly-Jazz combo The Biscuit Grabbers at Haskells Loft. Playing original music inspired by early jazz, western swing and classic country, the trio promises a memorable and entertaining evening. More info at www.okmozart.com. For a twist on the classical, consider attending the Bartlesville Symphony Orchestras Mendelssohn Mashup on Jan. 19. Tulsa father-son piano team of Donald and Barron Ryan will perform not only Mendelssohn, but also a fun assortment of jazz and pop, as well. Details at www.bartlesvillesymphony.org For more information on all of these events and other upcoming activities in the Bartlesville area, go to www.visitbartlesville.com

WASHINGTON COUNTY

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TULSA COUNTY

By Amy Addams
Its hard to get wound up about anything this time of year, but we found something that will make even the worst recluse get dressed and get out. Its the annual Tulsa Boat Sport & Travel Show coming our way Jan. 28 - Feb. 3 to the Muscogee Creek Nation Center at Expo Square and we highly recommend it. First, theres the shiny new fishing gear that will get you thinking of warmer days that are just around the corner. You really need to check out the pretty new boats with all their glitter trim and fancy new instruments (bring your boat trailer just in case). But it doesnt end with the boats. Youll need all of the accoutrements (like new fishin poles, reels, spinners and such) because you cant be seen in a fancy new boat with crappy old equipment! We are very impressed with the number of local vendors who will be there, so you can be assured that your money spent is helping the Oklahoma economy stay on the upswing. Dont forget to get you a new sound system for that new boat too! Theres more than boats and gear, though. There will be many camper/RV/camping gear/dock companies on hand to help you complete that first warm weekend of fishing, camping and fun. Its a one-stop shop for everything you didnt get from Santa as well as things you didnt even think to ask for. Remember that package of underwear you got but you thought it was actually something fun? Well, this is the time and the place to make it up to yourself. Even if you are a novice, there are people there who can help you make the most of your knowledge (or lack of). They will have companies that specialize in helping you make the most of your pretty new gear and can show you where to go and how to get that big catch youve always dreamed of. If you are still concerned about the end of days, this is the place to get your survival gear updated and learn more about what else you need to be the last survivors. They have it all. It doesnt end with gear and guides. They will have all kinds of national and regional celebrities as well as live music for you to enjoy while you take a break with a hot dog and drink. Need more? How about those crazy dudes from Animal Planets series Hillbilly Handfishin? Yep, Skipper Bivins and Trent Jackson will be on hand to shake hands and give you a bit of advice on how to do your own handfishin (but wed still suggest a rod and reel seems like a scary notion, grabbing a fish that big with your bare hands). Phil and Bob Soven from MTVs series WakeBrothers will be there to give you tips on how to wake board, which is rapidly becoming a very popular sport worldwide (and many of our local lakes offer it). Still not sold? Well, how about this: you can take your kids 12 and under in the doors for free! Just imagine you entertain the young ones with all kinds of fun and entertainment while you sneak off and drool on the boats and RVs. Its a great day for the whole family and a great way to look forward to spring; which is only a few days away in these parts. The show will help you survive the February doldrums while you stand in the garage and look at all the new gear that is patiently waiting for you. They will have multiple vendors for all of your camping, boating and fishing needs, so get off that couch, put some real pants on and check it out. Find out more information at www.tulsaboatshow. com or call Show Manager, Jennifer Maricle at (918) 519-1210 for specifics. Their website is quite informative and should cover just about anything you need to know. Expo Square is located at East 21st Street in Tulsa and the hours are Mon., Jan. 28: 5 pm 9 pm, Tue.-Fri.: noon- 9 pm, Sat.: 10 am 9 pm, Sun.: 11 am 5 pm.

WIN TICKETS TO THE 2013

MUSCOGEE CREEK NATION CENTER AT EXPO SQUARE

JANUARY 28 - FEBRUARY 3
KEEP WATCHING FACEBOOK PAGE FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN!

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Other Tulsa To-Dos


By Amy Addams
If you have resolved to shed some pounds this year, the good folks at Tulsa County Parks have thought of a way to get in touch with your inner iron man (or woman) with the 2013 Big Freeze 5K & Fun Run scheduled for Feb. 2 at LaFortune Park. The course is certified (and you might be certifiable if you want to get out and run in the dead of winter, but we salute you) and it includes OBSTACLES!!! Thats right; its the kind of course that separates the die-hards from the wimps, but the wimps are welcome to walk part or all of the course and it really only amounts to no more than an hour of your day - even if you walk the entire thing (5K=3.2 miles). BUT what makes this run really special is that the proceeds go towards helping Tulsa parks stay alive and functioning. In a time where budgets are being cut for parks, here is your opportunity to get out and help keep Tulsa parks alive and thriving. Best of all, they are offering awards, so make room on the shelf for that trophy so you can enjoy it until April. Interested? Then check out their website at www.bigfreezetulsa.com or call Pat Ward at (918) 596-5977. Everything you need to know is on their Website and they also have the registration there too. Online registration closes Jan. 31, so dont fiddle around. If you get registered early, you might get yourself a goody bag and T-shirt to show the world just how tough you are. The fun run begins at 7:30 am and the 5K begins at 8 am, so wear layers that you can wrap around your waist as the sun gets higher in the sky. Instead of rehashing the Tulsa theatre events, weve put all of them together on page 39, but its worth mentioning that Tulsa is thriving with theatre in January, so be sure to see whats there to offer. Now get those running shoes out of the back of the closet and get running! Happy 2013.

TULSA COUNTY

Getting around Tulsa - literally


By Trent McDaniel
If you thought that the local Chamber of Commerce was taking time off until spring, you would be dead wrong. It appears that many local chambers are locked and loaded for January and all you need to do is decide which one you fancy. First, we start with the 2013 Annual Awards Gala in Bixby. This is a masquerade gala with food, fun and awards going to businesses, citizens and volunteers who have worked hard in Bixby all year. It happens Jan. 11 and you can find out all of the details at www.bixbychamber.com. While you are looking at their website, be sure to check out the various luncheons and events the Bixby Chamber has planned. If you are a local business owner (or you wanna be one), you need to make sure you check in with them. Call the Bixby Chamber at (918) 366-9445 with questions. The folks at the Glenpool Chamber are hosting an annual awards luncheon on Jan. 25 and they are following it up with an auction too. If you want to attend, then check out www.glenpoolchamber.org for more info. You can also call the Glenpool Chamber at (918) 322-3505 with questions. Check out page 18 for details about the Tulsa Indian Art Show also happening in January.

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The Pulse - January 2013 - Page 17

A Showcase of Fine Indian Art


By Deb Bayton
In 1987, the first Indian Art Festival was held in the Pavilion at the Tulsa Fairgrounds. The artist Ben Shoemaker had donated a painting to the American Indian Theatre Company of Oklahoma, entitled The First Night and so it was the featured artwork. The event was a huge success, and has continued to draw such interest that this year will mark their 27th festival! Over the years the Festival has overcome many obstacles, but with the continued support of two founding members and the Tulsa community, the TIAF has awarded scholarships to American Indian students, and upheld the beauty and importance of American Indian art as an integral piece of the proud heritage of Oklahoma. Each year a featured artist is selected for the Festival, and this year the artist is Kimberly Greene-Bugg. Reading through the past roll-call of 26 years, it is a veritable whos-who of talented American Indian artists. The caliber of artwork at the festival is extremely fine, and certainly worth taking the time to see. In addition to the vendors, there will also be entertainment throughout the duration of the festival, featuring Don White, Erica James and Mahenwahdose, all talented and respected performers. There will also be a variety of exhibition dancing, storytelling and flute playing, so truly something for everyone to

CREEK COUNTY

enjoy. This will be a wonderful opportunity to get out after the busy holidays, and enjoy a few hours in the comfort of Glenpools new Conference Center. Come and see the Tulsa Indian Art Festival, A Showcase of Fine Art and Tradition, Honoring the Spirit of the American Indian. You will find this years Tulsa Indian Art Festival (TIAF) at Glenpool Conference Center, Hwy 75 & 121st Street on February 8, 9 & 10. For more information, go to www.tulsaindianartfest.com or call (918) 298-2300

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Ottawa keeps the Powwows comin


By Amy Addams
One thing you have to admire about Miami is their spirit and attachment to their heritage. No matter what folks have planned, they make time to honor where they come from and they always do it in a big way. On January 26, the Miami Nation is hosting a Tribal Stomp Dance at the NEO College Arena where you can partake in a dinner, then watch the gourd dancers take the stage and wind it all up with the stomp dance. If youve never been to a stomp dance, this is a fantastic way to get your feet wet and learn a little something about the culture and flavor of the Native community. There will not only be dancing but they will have gorgeous costumes you just wont see anywhere else, fancy dancing, drumming and singing. The Miami Tribe really know how to put on a big deal shindig, and this is a great time of year to check it all out. Who knows? You might get hooked and want to learn how to stomp dance (think weight loss, exercise and fun). The NEO College Arena is where it all happens (at 200 I Street in Miami) and you can learn more at www.miamination.com or by calling (918) 5427260. We looked at the Miami Nation Website and couldnt find the hours for the dance, but maybe youll have more luck. This is a family-friendly event that promises an evening of fun for the whole family. An added bonus is that you can get out for an evening of good food, good people and fun without breaking your budget or boring yourself to tears. Now put on those jeans and get dancin!

OTTAWA COUNTY

McIntosh matters
By Alexis Greybird

MCINTOSH COUNTY

While McIntosh County is relatively quiet this time of year, there is one place where they are shaking things up pretty regularly. Its happening at the Plumb theatre, located about five miles east of downtown Eufaula on Route 1. If you are looking for a place to take the family for a night out listening to music that doesnt offend, then give Plumb theatre a shot. They claim to have a gospel music show on Fridays and a country music show on Saturdays starting at 7 pm. There is only a $5 cover for Saturday shows and Friday night shows are FREE! We are very impressed with the fact that this is a smoke-free and alcohol

prohibited venue where you can grab a snack while you check out some family-friendly music. We attempted to contact the owners, but with the holidays, they may have been too busy, so give them a call at (918) 452-2020 to see whats going on or check out their website at www. plumbmusics.com and check out their Upcoming Events page for whats new. The Lake Eufaula Arts Center is hosting some pretty cool January classes also, so check them out for something new.

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The Pulse - January 2013 - Page 19

Out of the way, but right up your alley


By Amy Addams
Looking for a nice afternoon out of the house? Then check out Cow Creek Pecan Co. & Caf, located in Welch, just down the road a piece from Vinita. We found out about this cute little spot quite by accident, but what a happy accident it was! Cow Creek is a caf where you can get all kinds of homemade foods (and you can pronounce all of them) while you sit back and take a load off. Cow Creek is food that you just wont be able to turn away from and their prices are quite reasonable. They have all kinds of dishes for all kinds of tastes, such as pickle chips, salads, burgers, entrees and more and we didnt find anything that costs over $10. We were also pleasantly surprised by the affordable kids menu (everything is $4). Okay, honestly, what we were really excited about is the desserts. Everything from pie to ice cream sundaes bigger than your head (appropriately named the Cow-lossal Sundae) are all for the taking. Its a fabulous little find that you may not have known about but it will be your new favorite. Its a great place to bring the whole clan and eat good for cheap. Worth mentioning are the specials that they always seem to have an abundance of. They had a Steak for Two running in December as well as kids eat free (one kid per paying adult) specials to name just a few, so check out their latest cheap eats on Facebook (www.Facebook.com/eatatthecow). What really got our attention is the gift shop. If you missed some folks for the Holidays, then check out their fabulous gift shop where you can browse through all kinds of Okie-made items and create that specialty gift basket that will never be forgotten. They have all kinds of treats for all kinds of tastes and everything is a good price. Stock up on some yummies to get you through the cold winter nights or just look for stuff for the warmer spring months just ahead. Did we mention that they also have a 1,200 acre pecan grove? If that doesnt get your attention, nothing will. Find out more about Cow Creek on their Webpage: www.cowcreekpecanco.com or on Facebook (www.Facebook.com/eatatthecow) or if you dont care for the techno world, just call them at (918) 788-3638. Their staff is real friendly and will surely help you get the info you need. Cow Creek Pecan Co. & Caf is located at 387 South Commercial Street in Welch, just off Highways 2 and 10 and Welch is almost due west of Miami. OR just follow the fat squirrels until you get there. Cow Creek is open Tuesday through Saturday 10:30 am 9 pm with shorter hours Sunday-Monday.

CRAIG COUNTY

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Wagoner is wonderful this winter


By Alexis Greybird
Sometimes, we are pleasantly surprised by the small towns in Green Country who might not have anything going on during the overall busier times, but when all the others are rolling up the streets, towns such as Wagoner are stepping out and making it a January to celebrate. We start with the Western Hills Winter Bluegrass Festival at Western Hills Guest Ranch (AKA: Lodge at Sequoyah State Park) going on Jan. 17-19. Pickers of all skill levels are welcome and various group sessions will be jamming all over the place, including the lobby. They are putting the call out for all instruments, including, but not limited to: fivestring banjo, flattop guitar, fiddle, mandolin, dobro and bass, and workshops will be held for all of them as well. No matter what your specialty, there will be someone there who can help you take your skill to the next level. You must have a ticket to participate and its all indoors, so no need to watch the weather for this event. Folks from all over the region will converge on Western Hills for this weekend to remember. Youll want to show up to learn from all the specialists in the field. The Lodge is located at 17131 Park 10 in Wagoner. Learn more by calling (405) 273-8578. The State Fiddlers Winter Convention is slated for February, so now is the perfect time to improve your skills.

WAGONER COUNTY

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The Pulse - January 2013 - Page 21

Cherokee County goes for the birds


By Alexis Greybird
Hulbert is a quiet little town that likes it that way, and youll have to respect that quiet when you check out the Eagle Tours happening at Sequoyah State Park on Jan. 12, and the Eagle Tour & Loon Watches going on Jan. 19 - Mar. 2 at Sequoyah and Tenkiller State Parks. The eagle watches happen 9 am noon and the loon watches start at 2 pm. They are scheduled for every Saturday unless weather dictates differently. What more can you want than to see eagles and not one but THREE kinds of loons? What about one of the best guitar players to ever grace planet earth? His name is Frank Vignola and if youve never heard of him, you have heard of the people hes played for. Names such as Madonna, Wynton Marsalis, Ringo Starr, the Boston Pops and more all know his name and the legendary Les Paul names him one of his Five Most Admired Guitar List in the Wall Street Journal. Youll be truly amazed at his skill, so come check out the guitar whisperer live at NSU on Friday, Jan. 25 at 7:30 pm. Find out more at www.academics.nsuok.edu/ si/GalaxySeries or at www.frankvignola.com. How about a wine tasting? The Tahlequah Main Street Association is hosting their Wines of Winter Event scheduled for Feb. 7, 6-8 pm in downtown Tahlequah. For only $15, you can have a leisurely stroll through downtown where you can check out the various wine offerings, then stop off and have a nice dinner at one of the many restaurants that have some great choices that will excite you. If you pre-register, you get your own commemorative wine glass with your $15 purchase (only a few are available so dont wait). Find out more at www.tahlequahmainstreet. com or stop by the Tahlequah Chamber at 123 E. Delaware Street just off Muskogee Ave.

CHEROKEE COUNTY

Winter Inventory CLEARANCE!

15-70% OFF SALE

110 North Muskogee Tahlequah, OK

(918) 458-0454
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CHEROKEE COUNTY
ter At...

u Remember Yo

Always do Bet

235 N. Muskogee Tahlequah, OK

918-456-6931

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The Pulse - January 2013 - Page 23

Pawhuska parades its pretties all year round


By Alexis Greybird
Osage County always makes people think it is only a large tract of ranching and prairie land broken up by the occasional house, but the truth is that Pawhuska is a shopping Mecca for those in search of that special unique item such as an antique, etched glass, collectible or western dcor. Pawhuska is truly the oldtimey downtown shopping district where everything is new and exciting. All you need to do is get there. A few places we found were Sisters Attic (115 E. Main, (918) 287-2626), Promise Land Antique Mall (721 Kihekah, (918) 287-9120) and Shops at Townmaker Square (519 Kihekah Ave.). Pawhuska is a great place to park the car and peruse on foot and we recommend that you park as close to downtown as possible so you can get out and get some exercise while you shop. What will you find? These shops have it all and we havent even listed all of them antiques, candles, shabby chic, western, Native American, jewelry, vintage and more are all there and waiting your presence. Think of all the things you wanted for Christmas and didnt get. Nows your chance to rectify it and get yourself some of the things missed on your Christmas list. There are plenty of places to stay (we recommend The Grandview Inn B&B for a special night) as well as places to grab a bite

OSAGE COUNTY ADAIR COUNTY

to eat. Its all there and only a few hours away. Now is the time of year to get out and check out Pawhuska while there are no crowds to interfere. Find out more about what Pawhuska has to offer at www.visittheosage.com, www.pawhuskachamber.com, or call (918) 287-1208 to plan your visit.

Adair County is the place for you


By Ronnie Hopkins & Edna (Fields) Hopkins
We heard of a restaurant in Stilwell called Somethin Sweet Diner and Steakhouse on Blackjack Street in a quiet neighborhood off Hwy 59. As we entered, the waitress greeted us with warm, welcoming smiles. The restaurant was well-kept and very clean with a wonderful friendly atmosphere and surroundings. When we looked at the menu, we saw numerous plate dinners along with the classic burgers and fries plus homemade pies and cobblers. We each ordered something different as well as some dessert. It was all beautifully cooked and tasted great. The pie will give you one big sugar rush, but dont skip out on it. If you enjoy great food and being catered to, then visit Ronnie and Brenda Hales Somethin Sweet Diner and Steakhouse youll be glad you did. They are open 7 am 8 pm Monday Saturday and they serve breakfast all day Saturday. If you are in Stilwell on the first Saturday of the month, then drop by the Flint Masonic Lodge #11 located on Hwy 59 South at Plum Street for their monthly breakfast. Its served 7 am 10 am and the cost is $6 for 12 and older, $2.50 for children and children under five eat free. All proceeds go toward local charitable causes such as the food pantry, student scholarships, Angel Tree and so many more. You can have a great breakfast and help the Masons do so many wonderful things at the same time. Visit www.mypulsemag.com for pictures of Somethin Sweet. Every month play SEEK THE GEEK with Eastern Oklahoma District Library! Somewhere in The Pulse magazine you will find an entry for the Eastern Oklahoma Librarys Geek The Library Contest. Be the first person to go to your countys library with the page number you found it on and win a Geek t-shirt. Get details on their poster contest while youre there.

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Okmulgee offers eats for everybody


By Amy Addams
One thing we all tend to forget is to check out something new when we visit a new town. Many of us look for familiar signs because even though the food is edible and not much more, we accept this as our due. One town has not one, but many restaurants that are not only some of the best in Okmulgee but they are some of the best in Oklahoma. All you need to do is decide which one to try first. For the next couple of months, we are going to focus on the good eats you can find in Okmulgee starting with the legendary Masseys Bar-B-Que located at 200 N. Wood Drive. If youve tried all of the chain BBQ joints and found them lacking, then its long overdue that you gave Masseys a try. His claim of No Brag Jus Fact is not a lie. The food is fall-off-the-bone tasty and the one thing they didnt neglect is the side dishes. You can get all kinds of sides to compliment your meal and not one is disappointing. Masseys is family-friendly with fair prices that wont make you feel like youve been ripped off. They have only a few desserts but chances are pretty good that you wont want anything after a few ribs and your side dish. Honestly, we arent sure how he stays in business with the portion sizes, but were not complaining. Theres only one Masseys and it could be because their food is as original as they are. Find out more about Masseys at www.masseysbarbeque.com or call (918) 756-8227.

OKMULGEE COUNTY

Nowata mixes architecture with learning


By Trent McDaniel
There are many little towns all over NE Oklahoma that we may not make a special effort to visit and sometimes that list includes Nowata. We know that many in Nowata like it that way and they are content to be a sleepy little hamlet with all the necessities right in downtown, but if you are looking for a cheap day trip, you might want to make Nowata your destination. There are two places where the architecture is interesting enough to warrant a trip. One of them is the Nowata County Courthouse and the other is the library. For January, weve decided that the Nowata Library deserves attention. If you are interested in learning more about Green Countrys library system events for January, check out pages 28-29. The architecture at the Nowata Library is beautiful. We could talk endlessly about the tall windows and the angular rooftops, but instead, we thought you might get more from a picture. And after all, a picture is worth a thousand words, right?

NOWATA COUNTY

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The Pulse - January 2013 - Page 25

WINDING STAIR MOUNTAINS by BILL HARRIS


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THANKS TO ALL OF THE ARTISTS


WHO SUBMITTED WORK FOR OUR COVER CONTEST YOU ARE ALL TRULY TALENTED
A BOY AND HIS HORSE by GUY LOCKWOOD

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GREEN COUNTRY ARTISTS


CHILDREN OF THE WIND by EDDIE MORRISON MEMORIES OF HOME by MOJAH HAMNER TOMAHAWKS by J. T. MITCHELL EAGLE by SHIRLEY WHITMAN VASE by JACKIE SWAFFORD
The Pulse - January 2013 - Page 27

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The Pulse - January 2013 - Page 29

The Dangers of Winter Weather


By Sarah Bowman
Winter is officially upon us. With all the excitement and fun that this time of year brings, there are also certain dangers to be aware of. Snow and ice are prevalent during the winter months and precautions must be taken in order to protect home and person. The most hazardous conditions can be on the roads. Heavy snow can present white-out conditions making the roads nearly impossible to navigate. Ice can be equally hazardous. Icy roads are difficult to detect and leave the driver with little to no traction. In hazardous conditions, it is best to avoid driving at all if possible. If you must venture out, make sure your vehicle is in good working order and prepare an emergency kit just in case. This can include cell phone, blanket, candle, matches, water, a power bar, road flare and a flashlight. Snow and ice can also be a danger to the home. Snow banks can clog furnaces, dryer vents and heat pumps, causing overheating and carbon monoxide leaks. Ice accumulations on power can cause power outages causing cold and dangerous conditions at home. After a snow or ice event, you should always do an outside check of your home for blockages, downed limbs or damage. Regardless of snow or ice, however, winter can just be downright cold. And with prolonged exposure to cold, either directly or indirectly, comes many dangers, physically and mentally, to be aware of. If you must be out in the cold this season, be aware of the signs of hypothermia and frostbite which can be potentially life-threatening conditions. Signs of hypothermia can include shivering, clumsiness and drowsiness among other things. Signs of frostbite can be a prickly, itching sensation in the skin, discoloring of the skin and a numb or burning sensation. For more information on symptoms and treatment visit www.mayoclinic.com. Heart attacks are at a high in the winter time due to the cold. So practice caution when exerting yourself outdoors and limit your time in freezing temperatures. During these long cold months many also suffer mentally. Seasonal affective disorder or SAD is common this time of year. Symptoms of this disorder include loss of energy, moodiness, and depression. If you notice changes in someones mood, it might be a good idea to get them some medical help. Winter time is also cold and flu season. As it gets colder outside, we naturally tend to be indoors for longer periods of time. This causes viruses to pass easily from one person to another. There are many simple tips to prevent cold and flu; wash your hands regularly, maintain a healthy diet and get adequate exercise in order to boost your immune system. It is also recommended that everyone get a flu shot each year. To find out where to get your flu shot this year visit www.flu.gov. If you do get the flu or a cold, it is recommended that you open a window and air out the house for even one hour after the sickness has largely passed. Radon is a silent danger that can be a threat any time of the year. However, concentration of this invisible natural gas tends to be higher in the winter months. Radon is a gas that lives in the soil and travels up into the air and into your home. As we shut ourselves in for the winter, radon becomes thicker in the air and thus more of a danger to those in the home. Winter is the recommended time to have your home tested for radon levels. For more information on radon and how to test your home visit www. epa.gov/radon. While watching out for yourself and your loved ones this winter, dont forget about your pets. They are just as susceptible as anyone to the cold weather. Extreme cold can even be deadly to your pet. It is suggested to bring your animals indoors as much as possible this winter. If they must be outside for long periods of time provide them with adequate shelter capable of cutting out the wind. It is recommended that the shelter be raised a few inches off the ground and covered with a waterproof covering to protect from rain and snow. Also, check their water dish for signs of freezing. More suggestions on how to protect your pets this winter can be found at www.humanesociety.org. Enjoy this winter season with family and friends, but remember to play it safe!

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Fitness Resolutions that Work


By Karen Brown
Last month The Pulse included a great article on New Years Resolutions. It included many helpful tips and also some great websites to visit for specific resolutions. Now that January and the New Year is upon us it is time to start making those resolutions reality. If you are like many other Americans, getting more exercise may be on your list of goals for the New Year. This particular resolution seems to rate among the most popular every year. Our fast paced lifestyle, availability of fast food, longer commutes, more sedentary jobs and home environments all lead to less exercise for the average person. If you are not making a conscious decision to be active, chances are you are not living an active lifestyle. Add to that the extra food, parties and pounds that often come with the holidays, its no wonder that we find ourselves anxious to make a change this time of year. So, just how do we make a fitness resolution that we can indeed stick to? 1. Dont expect to replace your sedentary lifestyle with weekends full of marathons overnight. Try instead to set realistic smaller goals. That way you are not faced with an all or nothing attitude and success seems easier to obtain. If you currently get no exercise, start with walking for 10 minutes extra a day, or simply increasing your daily steps. You can purchase inexpensive pedometers which will measure your steps for you. If you already have an exercise routine, try adding an additional 10 minutes, an additional day or increasing the intensity or variety of your exercise. 2. Write it down! Keeping goals posted can strengthen your resolve and improve your success. I recommend writing your weekly goal (be specific) and posting it in one or more places (car, home and your office). 3. Grab a friend or family member. Having a focused and dedicated exercise buddy can add motivation and accountability when your own is lacking. If you choose to work out in a gym or walk at a park, try getting know someone there if a friend or family member is not available. 4. Focus on what you are gaining. Resolutions are typically related to something we want to add or take away from our lives. It is usually easier to add good habits than it is to break bad ones. Try thinking of your resolution with that in mind. Decide why you want to exercise, what will be the benefit to you. 5. Develop some distractions. This means that if you know you are likely to sit and check your Facebook page after eating your lunch at work, but you want to walk a couple of flights of stairs to get more exercise, leave your lunch in the car so you have to do the stairs first. If, on the other hand, your neighbor always catches you as soon as you step outside for your 15 minute walk, plan to stop by the park and take your walk there instead. The distractions must be planned ahead to be successful. 6. Do not give up at the first sign of setback. Expecting and accepting setbacks for what they are (a temporary step backward) and not allowing yourself to give up is a really important part of success. After all, if your goal is to walk for 15 minutes every evening and you were unable to walk two days out of the week, then that is still five days in the right direction. 7. Reward success. Some ideas are a new workout outfit, a new CD, a special meal out with a friend. Anything that you value (and doesnt sabotage your exercise goal) will work. You choose. 8. Envision what your success will look like. What will it feel like! Remind yourself to think about this at least once a day. You can do this. Little steps toward your goal are better than no steps at all. There is no time like the present. You can choose today to get started.

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The Pulse - January 2013 - Page 31

Getting your After-Christmas finances back on track


By Amy Addams
Christmas has ended, the trees, lights and wrappings have been put away and now we all sit back and wait for those bills to come while we nurse that Christmas spending hangover. Some of you used cash for your holiday expenses and to those who did, we applaud you. For those of you who didnt and are facing big credit card bills, we want to help you get back on track. If you are paying high interest rates, take a look at either transferring your balances to a lower-rate card or getting a low-interest loan from your bank. Borrowing from family if youve really made a mess of things is another option but the idea is to pay off everything by June because you will need to save for next year and youll need some time so you dont repeat the same mistake. How will you gather the money to pay the bills? First, take a look at your budget. Do you eat lunch out every day? That can be dropped to one or two days and take the money to pay down those bills. What about your cable TV bill? Do you have all the channels? Could you get rid of them for a few months? What about your day-to-day expenses? Do you really need new shoes, a new bag or other treats? Can you make last years goods last another year? The trick is to look at your monthly expenses and drop them down so that money can go to your bills. Something has to give (shopping in your closet can help you avoid giving your money to the mall).

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Do you need to get a part-time job? Some people get a parttime to pay off their bills, but every penny you earn needs to go to paying down that debt. Do you have to hit your retirement account or other savings plan to get these bills paid? If you are really in the hole, look at what you pay in interest versus what you gain from your other accounts and do some math. If its worth borrowing against your retirement account or other accounts, then by all means, get those bills paid! You might want to borrow against your car, home or other valuable but dont make this a regular thing to keep your finances straight. This is an emergency fix, not a regular way to fix your money. You may want to talk to your accountant about your taxes for 2012 and see if you can set yourself up to get a big refund from Uncle Sam. Youll need to ensure that the money doesnt burn a hole in your pocket on the way to the mailbox but if you really want to get rid of the bills you can do it. If you really overdid things, you might want to talk to a credit counseling service and have them help you get straightened out. Many offer these services for free and will negotiate a lower bill for you. If you have reached that point, then its time to cut-up those cards and get on a budget diet. One such company is Consumer Credit Counseling Service (www.cccs.org) where you can get the credit help you need. Most importantly, dont beat yourself up over it too badly but its time to rethink your future spending and its never too soon to do so. Many people overspend at Christmas time, but if youve done this many times before, its a symptom of something bigger at work and therapy might be in order. You may be a chronic spender/shopper and there might be reasons you spend money too quickly. Find out the reasons you overspend and get help. Have someone you trust either cut-up your cards or put them away until you can get the bills under control. Some people freeze their charge cards in a block of ice. If you still want it after the credit card has thawed, then it may be okay to buy. Now if you can, put a bit of money aside for next year. Many of us are Christmas fanatics and spend way more than we should, so planning ahead is key to stopping the trend towards overspending. Putting away $100-200 per month can get you a big fat payout for your next holiday without the credit card hangover next January. Its never too early to start the plan. Ask your bank if they have a Christmas club where you can save a bit of money every month for the next Christmas season and stick to it. You may want to revamp the amount of money you spend on others too. Its never too early to make a plan and revise it to keep your expenses under control. Everyone doesnt need the best money can buy and neither do you. Happy 2013 Green Country! (Notice how we survived the Mayan prophecy? Now, take that as a sign that you will be here a while and some changes need to happen.)

PULSE PRO

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Helpful Hints for Charitable Giving


By Jaci Taylor, NEO Accounting
Charitable Organizations Contributions to qualified charitable organizations are generally tax deductible as an itemized deduction. Qualified charitable organizations include nonprofit groups that are religious, charitable, educational, scientific, or literary in purpose, or that work to prevent cruelty to children or animals. If you are considering a charitable contribution to an organization, ask the charity about its tax-exempt status. You can also visit IRS.gov and use the Exempt Organizations Select Check tool to ensure the charity is a qualified charity. Donations charged to a credit card by Dec. 31 are deductible for 2012, even if you pay the bill in 2013. A gift by check also counts for 2012 as long as it is mailed in December. Gifts given to individuals, whether to friends, family or strangers, are not deductible. Contributions to political organizations and candidates are NOT deductible. Expenses Incurred While Volunteering Out-of-pocket expenses incurred in performing volunteer work for a charitable organization (including the charitable mileage deduction) are considered cash contributions. The value of a donors time is not deductible. Contributions That Benefit the Taxpayer If a taxpayer receives a benefit in exchange for a charitable contribution, the deduction is reduced by the value of the benefit received. Auto Expenses Deductible out-of-pocket expenses include the cost of using the taxpayers auto in providing services for a charitable organization. Deduct the actual cost of gas and oil or the standard mileage rate. Add parking and tolls to amount claimed for either standard mileage rate or actual expenses. A mileage log is required. Standard Mileage Rate The general standard mileage rate for charity is 14 per mile in 2012. Contributions of Property If used items were given to charity, such as clothing or furniture, the fair market value of the items is used to determine the deductible amount. Fair market value is what a willing buyer would pay a willing seller when neither has to buy or sell and both are aware of the conditions of the sale. Most cell phones today can take pictures. Take a picture of all items donated. Keep the electronic pictures for proof the items were in good used condition or better at the time they were donated. No deduction is allowed for a charitable contribution of clothing or household items unless the clothing or household item is in good used condition or better. The IRS is authorized by regulation to deny a deduction for any contribution of clothing or a household item that has minimal monetary value, such as used socks and undergarments. Recordkeeping Rules for Charitable Contributions To help substantiate a deduction for the fair market value of used items donated to charity, make a list of each item donated on a separate sheet of paper, along with the following information: Name and address of charity. Date items were donated to the charity. Description of each item donated. Fair market value of each item at the time they were donated. Date each donated item was originally purchased or acquired. Cost or other basis of each item donated. Part Contribution, Part Goods or Services A written statement from a charity is required if a donation is more than $75 and is partly a contribution and partly for goods or services. The statement must contain an estimate of the value of goods or services received. Exception: A written statement for goods or services is not required if one of the following is true. 1) The charity is a federal, state, or local government or a religious organization where the benefit is an intangible religious benefit, such as admission to a religious ceremony. 2) The goods or services are of token value. 3) The goods or services are membership benefits. Donating a Vehicle Written Acknowledgement Obtain written acknowledgement from the organization, which includes details on the use or disposition of the vehicle by the donee organization. A copy of the written acknowledgement must be attached to the tax return. Deduction Limits A deduction for used items donated to a charity are generally equal to the fair market value of the item at the time of the donation. In the case of vehicles, the deduction may be less than fair market value under the gross proceeds deduction limit, if certain conditions are met. Contributions of Less Than $500 A written acknowledgement is still required if the contribution is $250 or more. Seek Professional Tax Advice To determine your individual tax situation, contact a licensed CPA. CPAs are required by state law to complete continuing education each year so that they are aware of changes in the tax law. Many times taxpayers believe that services provided by CPAs are more expensive than other preparers; however, fees for tax preparation are comparable to other non-licensed preparers. CPAs can act as your representative before state and federal tax authorities. They will serve as personal representatives, or reply to correspondence concerning tax returns or provide explanations, schedules, and other documents in tax examinations. CPAs are the professionals trained to give you sound advice.

PULSE PRO

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The Pulse - January 2013 - Page 33

Winter (especially January) is a perfect time of year to take a little long weekender to a nearby city while still minding your budget. Many hotel chains have January deals that will keep your sanity and your checkbook happy. We have some cities that are all within a 6-hour drive from Green Country. All you need to decide is which one suits you best.

Tripping on a tankful

GOING OUT

Dallas (4 hour drive): Dallas has it all: food, shopping, culture, museums, take your pick. The north side of Dallas is convenient for plenty of shopping with malls, shopping centers and lots of chain restaurants as well as many one-of-a-kind places where you can get your fill of ethnic food, home cooking and anything your heart, and stomach, desires. There are also many towns along Route 75 where you can stop off for a sandwich, drink and potty break along the way. A few shopping stops we really like are: North Park Center, Galleria Dallas and Highland Park Village. The Dallas World Aquarium as well as the Childrens Aquarium at Fair Park are quite the spectacle and Plano has a quaint little downtown district chock full of antiquing opportunities and plenty of good food. If you are venturing into Dallas during the weekdays, be forewarned that rush hour is alive and well so driving between 4 and 6 pm can be a little chaotic. Find out more about Dallas at www.visitdallas.com. Little Rock (4-5 hour drive): We love Little Rock and if you are a big Bill Clinton fan, there are lots of places to relive the Clinton era including a museum devoted to the man. Downtown is beautiful and runs along the river and they have a great trolley system that can take you anywhere you want to go in downtown. Little Rock is also chock-full of antiquing opportunities, shopping malls and specialty boutiques, so plan your trip before you go or you miss out on something really fun. Little Rock is also well-known for their eclectic mix of breweries and distilleries with all kinds of micro breweries such as Boscos, Diamond Bear and Rock Town Distillery to name just a few. They also have a zoo and museums such as the Arkansas Arts Center, Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum and MacArthur Museum of Military History; the list goes on and on. Want to know more? Then check out www.littlerock.com and plan your trip. Oklahoma City (2-3 hour drive): Many of us have been to OKC, but we went there with an agenda, never stopping to check out what else was around. OKC is truly and arts and cultural Mecca with a lot to offer. If you plan well, you can make it a day trip or stay for more you wont run out of things to do, we promise. Of course, OKC Zoo is a great stop and plenty of their animals love the cooler weather, so you can be assured that the polar bears and penguins wont be hiding from the heat of summer. Theres also the Science Museum, Bricktown, Paseo Arts District and Automobile Alley and we havent even skimmed the surface.

You wont run out of food options in OKC either. With plenty of options, you will only need to decide what you are hankering for, but you might want to let your sniffer be your guide to picking out what you crave. Mexican, steakhouses, sports grills and cafes are easily accessible and plentiful. Of course, no trip would be complete without a bit of shopping and OKC is renowned for their boutiques, antiques and artsy shopping spots. Plenty of places can be the go-to for your Christmas 2013 list but make sure you grab a few goodies for yourself too. For more information, visit www.visitokc.com. Kansas City (about 5-6 hour drive): Now, no trip to KC is complete without trying a bit of BBQ which is what Kansas is known for, but you wont want to stop there. We highly recommend Village West for a day of shopping with Cabelas and Nebraska Furniture Mart. Its easily accessible from major highways and encompasses 400 acres, so theres a full day of fun and shopping right there. If you want to have a more upscale experience, check out Country Club Plaza where all of the fancy shops are congregated. The architecture alone is enough to leave you standing there gaping. They claim to have 15 block of Endless Possibilities but youll want to have some serious money in your pocket before you venture inside. Find out more about things to do in KC at www.wycokck.org. Branson (about 5-6 hour drive): For the gambler, show lover and live music fan, Branson has something for all of you and many are within walking distance. Its as good as any Las Vegas without the longer drive. There is lots of golf too, but it might be the time to scout out the fairways you want to hit when the weather warms up a bit. You can, however, checkout the myriad of pro

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GOING OUT

Kayaking on the Illinois River Source: Google Maps shops where you can find all kinds of golf needs. Shopping is everywhere you look in Branson. With Antiques, craft malls, IMAX theater, the Shops at Branson Meadows and Branson Landing, Tanger Mall you will not run out of shopping opportunities. Youll run out of steam before you hit them all, so wear good shoes. While you are there, check out all that downtown Branson has to offer. If you cant find something to feed you in Branson, then theres just no hope. Seafood to steaks, American to Italian to Asian, Branson has food to keep you replenished while you shop, peruse or party your day away. Its all there, including family-style restaurants and pubs. Theres also plenty of fast food if you are hungry but need to eat and run. Find out more about Branson at www.branson.com, www.explorebranson.com or www.bransontourismcenter.com.

Camp Gruber, Zeb Unit, Cherokee Country

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The Pulse - January 2013 - Page 35

Off the Couch


By Karen Brown
This past fall we experienced warmer than usual weather. With more warm weather likely this January, why not get the family out of the house and off of the couch this winter? Whether you like to be spontaneous or you prefer to plan ahead, Green Country has many lovely places to enjoy. The choices are numerous (too many to mentions here), many are free or very inexpensive, and most are only a short drive away. Hiking/Nature Trails There are so many places to enjoy the great outdoors on a sunny winter day (again, way too many to mention). Being surrounded by natures beauty can improve moods and reduce stress. It can be very refreshing for people of all ages to get outside and break the routine. Below are just some of the many places that you can go to hit the trails: In the Tulsa Area: Mary K. Oxley Nature Center-Gates open 8 am - 5 pm Located in Mohawk Park, Mary K. Oxley Nature Center is a sure step away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Enjoy the trails or call ahead to get information on one of the many programs offered, including Sat morning Bird Walks. Red Bud Valley Nature Preserve-open 8 am - 5 pm (Wed.-Sat.) Kids of all ages will enjoy the hiking trails. Red Bud Valley Nature Preserve has a lot of boulders and small caves to peek in and around. Turkey Mountain - open dawn to dusk You will find over 20 miles of trails, both rugged and scenic at Turkey Mountain. Its a beautiful place to get a little exercise. Outside Tulsa: You can also find lots of trails in state parks around Green Country. For a complete list of NE Oklahoma State Parks visit: www. stateparks.com But here are just a few of the 21 State Parks in the area: Greenleaf State Park, Osage Hills State Park, Twin Bridges State Park, Lake Eucha State Park, Keystone State Park, Bernice State Park, Sequoyah State Park Local Parks Local Parks are indeed great locations to enjoy some fresh air. If we continue to be blessed with especially warm afternoons, try stopping by your local park for a picnic. But, dont worry if the Oklahoma wind prevents a picnic, just trade in that picnic idea for a brisk walk, or maybe a quick trip to the playground with your children. Zoos On a pretty day, theres really no place like a zoo. Many animals are more active in the cooler weather. The Tulsa Zoo and Living Museum has indoor as well as outdoor habitats to view, making it nice even when the weather is less than perfect. Often overlooked is the Nature Exchange at the Tulsa Zoo. Check it out for a unique way to spark your childrens interest in biology, botany, and zoology. Museums Perfect for a colder day and another great escape from the old routine, Green Country is home to some great museums. Museums offer an educational experience and can often expose children (and adults) to a whole new world. And, when you consider that many have free or reduced admission fees for children under 17, museums can be hard to beat. Youll probably want to Google your preferences for more specific information and hours of operation. In Tulsa: Gilcrease Museum, Philbrook Museum of Art, Sherwin Miller Museum of Jewish Art, Tulsa Air and Space Museum, Jenks Aquarium Outside Tulsa: Har-Ber Village Museum is known as the largest antique historical museum in the U.S. It is located on Grand Lake, near Grove, OK. Will Rogers Memorial Museum Woolaroc Ranch, Museum and Wildlife Preserve is located SE of Bartlesville, OK. Eastern Trails Museum Darryl Starbirds National Rod & Custom Car Hall of Fame Museum Price Tower Arts Center USS Batfish Shepherds Cross is located outside of Claremore and offers tours, seasonal petting zoos, yearly festivals and fiber art classes. If you are looking to beat the winter blues or simply break the old routine, then the possibilities are practically endless. The list below includes even more ideas, which just might keep you from spending the whole winter on the couch! So get out and have some fun this winter! Ice Skating, Geocaching, Bowling, Rock Climbing, Roller Skating, Fishing (including Trout fishing), Laser Tag, Paintballing, Bird watching, Indoor Swimming, Local Historic Sites, Community Plays, Ceramic and Stained Glass Shops, Craft classes at Hobby Stores and Community Centers, Totem Pole, Blue Whale

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Page 36 - January 2013 - The Pulse

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If I have to sit around watching TV another day


By Amy Addams
Okay, we admit that we are guilty of sitting on the couch, in our sweats, remote in one hand, can of pop in the other, wanting to do something else, but not really making any efforts to do so. While many people are making New Years resolutions to lose weight, quit smoking, etc., we have decided that we are no longer going to spend our time wasting away in front of the TV until the weather warms up. This idea led us to give you some ideas on what you can do to get up and get out, even for only an afternoon so here are some ideas to help you break the routine without breaking the budget. 1. If you want to get the whole family out for a budget-friendly afternoon of fun including eating out, make sure you eat lunch, not dinner. Lunch specials are to be had all over the place and you might want to ask others where they suggest you go. You can eat for as little as half of what you would for dinner. Splitting your meal with another is another way to be good to your waistline and your wallet. 2. If youd like to see a movie but its not one you are sure youll like, try finding a matinee where tickets are oftentimes 25-35% less or find some of the second run theaters where shows are $2-5. Youll have to wait a few months for a movie, but if you werent sure you wanted to see it in the first place, you wont be out a lot of money. Be sure you eat something at home, because theaters often get your wallet with popcorn and snack prices. 3. If you want some fresh air, a tour through a town you havent visited in a while (or ever) might be in order. Many downtowns or main streets are great places to spend an afternoon window shopping, grabbing a bite and getting home in time for dinner. Some great places to visit are Grove, Claremore, Owasso, Collinsville, Tahlequah, Bartlesville, Vinita and Tahlequah. 4. A museum is always a nice way to spend an afternoon. There are so many museums, we could never cover them all, but a few are: Gilcrease, Philbrook, Crystal Bridges, Air and Space Museum and Daryl Starbirds Car Museum. If you would like to decide which museum best suits you, check out what www.travelok.com has to offer as well as www.okmuseums.org. Both offer maps and options for what kind of museum might strike your fancy. 5. If travel doesnt excite you, why not see whats around in your town or a neighboring one? Many of our towns have museums that cover what made our town famous and many of us havent visited them since we were in grade school (or ever). Visit a restaurant youve never tried before while you are out and see what might become your new favorite. Its like seeing your hometown with new eyes. Afterwards, spend some time perusing the shops downtown. You dont have to go into all of them but you might find a place youve not visited before. 6. When were you at the library last? Many of our local libraries have DVDs, a big childrens section and lots of friendly people who can help you select a few books to take home and turn off that TV. If you arent sure what to select, ask whats popular, try a new genre or just re-read an old favorite. Anything to engage your mind instead of mind-numbing hours in front of the television. If you cant find or dont have a library card, get a new one. It only takes a minute. 7. Places such as the zoo, the aquarium, bumper cars, bowling, ice skating, roller skating or even walking around a mall offer exercise and a chance to get out and do something fun as a family without breaking the bank. Many kids only play video games to alleviate boredom and doing something interactive gives them something new to do as well as some much-needed exercise. 8. Did you get gift cards or gift certificates for Christmas? Why not ask the family what everyone wants to do and use that money toward it? You might be surprised at how much you have in gift cards lying around, thus making for a day of fun for no money at all. 9. Why not see what you can find for next Christmas for a great deal? Many stores are chomping at the bit to get rid of their Christmas dcor from 2012 and all you have to do is ask to pay what you want. The worst they can say is no. Now is also a great time to get cards, light sets and gift boxes for your 2013 Christmas recipients. Itll be here before you know it! (Just dont buy anything perishable or food unless you plan on eating it now) 10. Maybe you need to see what the kids (and you) got that hasnt been the go-to gift and see if returning it might be an option. If the kids havent played with something yet, chances are they never will and it needs to go back. A morning of returns then using the money for something else as a family is a welcome diversion from the norm. If you cant return it, maybe a consignment store or trade for something else is in order. The idea is to not spend any more days in front of the television doing nothing, but get up and get out. Despite the cold and winter doldrums, there is still so much to see and do and its all right here in Green Country. Now get out of those sweats, into some real clothes and have a bit of fun! Happy 2013 Yall!

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The Pulse - January 2013 - Page 37

We accept that things have quieted down a bit for January, but if you are an art lover, there is always a place that gives the diehard art fans something to crow about. For January, we found some great places to come in and warm up to a new art form. Despite being known for their live performance art shows, Tulsa PAC is in constant search for other things to draw people in and theyve really gotten busy for January.

Art
Janice Wright

in these parts

GOING OUT - ART

We start with Janice Wrights modern art show Landscapes from the Heart on display Jan. 4 - 27 at the PAC Gallery. All of her works are based on natural order, Nature is a master planner; all things follow their own unique pattern, coexisting harmoniously with all other elements in the universe. When I paint I strive to paint the way nature does, with a sense of rhythm that is present in every brushstroke. Like a tightrope walker on a wire, I try to balance the elements of shape and color, size and weight, texture and transparency. Its free to come in and see her works Mon. Fri. 10 am 5:30 pm and during Chapman Hall events. The Gilcrease is doing some great works for children in January: Winter Art Camp will be going on Jan. 3 - 4 and Painting Light and Atmosphere in Acrylics with Christopher Westfall will be held Jan. 12. Preschool Picassos will be at Zarrow Jan. 15 and Home School Art Classes will begin Jan. 31. Jim Richardsons photography of the American West will be on display starting Jan. 11. Richardson has photographed quite a bit for National Geographic. His past and present works will be on display and should provide some nice viewing time. Find out about Gilcrease at www.gilcrease.utulsa. edu. The Philbrook is winding down Models & Muses Feb. 3 with Max Weber who was a key figure in early twentieth century art as a cubist. Find out about this exhibit and more at www.philbrook.org. If you are in search of something new from an up-and-coming artist local to the area, we found a few Websites that you might want to check out: -www.ahct.org: this is the Website for the Arts & Humanities Council for Tulsa and it is truly a plethora of art information. They also have some news about the Hardesty

Arts Center. The center had its grand opening party in December, so we are sure to keep an eye on what they have coming up for 2013. We suggest you do the same because they are serious about their art. -www.theartsmap.com/focus/tulsa/: great resource for finding local artists via mapping technology or you can do a search by medium, events, classes for beginners or by name. If you know of a local artist who wants to get their name out there, you may want to suggest this website to start them on their journey to stardom. Lets all do our parts to keep the arts alive in Oklahoma! Janice Wright at easel

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Theatre thrills in January


Jekyll & Hyde: we all know the backstory about this psychotic story of a man who is two people inside, but theres a new Jekyll and Hyde in town who sings the story again making it all the more thrilling for both the show lover and musical fan. It not only tells his story but also gives a bit of history of Victorian Englands social class struggle. The music is well done and choreographed. Its happening at Tulsa PAC Jan. 22-27. Find out more at www. celebrityattractions.com or by calling (918) 596-7109. Lady of the Camellias: need a gentle evening of ballet to help you regroup? Then Lady of the Camellias is just the ticket. With gorgeous dancing set to fantastic classical music, its a phenomenal night of romantic ballet for just the two of you. Perhaps just the thing for an early Valentines eve? It works for regular patrons of Ballet as well as novices and will bring your center back. Check it out at www.tulsaballet.org or (918) 749-6030. Show dates are Feb. 1-3. Stomp: tin cans, lighters, trash can lids, anything that makes some noise, no matter what sound it makes, are brought to the stage to make a night of percussion and dancing that will amaze even the most cynical of theatre-goers. Its a show for all percussionists no matter how big or small. Be warned: you will be banging on anything you can find for days afterwards! Check out the arm muscles on these people!) It all happens in Bartlesville Jan. 10 at 7:30 pm. Find out more at www.bartlesvillecommunitycenter.com or at (918) 336-2787. Rock the Presidents: Okay, we are dumbfounded by this show and you will be too when you see this musical that will teach you more about the history of our presidents than you ever thought you would remember. This is a must-see for the kids and anyone who thinks they know it all about our fearless leaders. Its fun, exciting and sure to be a dang good experience for everyone. Get ready to be amazed at how much you will take away from this one. It happens Jan. 25-26 at Tulsa PAC. Find out details and more at www.tulsapac.com or (918) 596-7111. Les Miserables: technically, this is a movie, but if youve never had the opportunity to see live theater, then stop with the excuses and see Les Miserables in the movie theater. Its a fantastic show, the music is just amazing and bring tissues because you will cry before its all over, we guarantee it. Les Miz is the story of the oppressed in Paris before the Revolution and their day to day struggles as well as the story of Jean Valjean, an ex-convict who changes his life and sees Paris through both views. Dont say we didnt warn you because its sure to be a tear-jerker, but well worth the time and a good window into the oppression faced by Parisians pre-revolution.

GOING OUT - THEATRE

Theatre thrills in January

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The Pulse - January 2013 - Page 39

JANUARY Zero Dark Thirty


January 11, NYR
With a limited release in December Zero Dark Thirty will see a full release on January 11th. This is the story of the decade long hunt and eventual assassination of al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden. Controversy has surrounded the production of this movie but the limited release has already garnered praise from audiences and critics alike. It has already won the New York Film Critics Award for best picture and will no doubt be nominated for the Oscar. Directed by Kathryn Bigelow (who gave us The Hurt Locker) cast members include Chris Pratt, Jessica Chastain, Scott Adkins, Joel Edgerton, Jason Clarke, Mark Strong and James Gandolfini.

IN THEATERS IN

Hansel & Gretel Witch Hunters


January 25, PG-13
Another track and hunt story this January issues from the pages of the Brothers Grimm. In a line of fairy tale twists comes a new take on Hansel and Gretel. Writer/director Tommy Wirkola envisions the siblings as a team of bounty hunters on the path to rid the world of witches. In the lead roles are Jeremy Renner as Hansel and Gemma Arterton as Gretel, with other cast members including Peter Stormare, Famke Janssen and Zoe Bell. The previews show some good action scenes and graphics work. With some recognizable star power, this one looks to be entertaining, if the fairy tale theme is up your alley.

Also in Theaters in January


January 4
Texas Chainsaw 3D (R)

January 18
Broken City (R); The Last Stand (NYR); Mama (R)

January 11

January 25

Gangster Squad (R); A Haunted House (R); Quartet (NYR); Struck By Lightning (NYR)

Movie 43 (R); Parker (R)

On DVD/Blu-Ray in January
January 2nd Cosmopolis (R); Little Birds (R); The trouble with Bliss (PG13); War of the Dead (NR) January 8th Compliance (R); Dredd (R); Frankenweenie (PG); Game Change (NR); Hit & Run (R); House at the End of the Street (PG13); Stolen (R) January 15th About Cherry (R); Branded (R); The Last Fall (NR); The Possession(PG-13); Taken 2 (PG-13); To Rome with Love (R); Wont Back Down (PG) January 22nd End of Watch (R); For a Good Time, Call (R); The Imposter (R); The Paperboy (R) January 29th The Awakening (R); The Cold Light of Day (PG-13); The Eye of the Storm (NR); Hotel Transylvania (PG)

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Big Scenes on the Small Screen


Maybe youre stuck in the house because of snow or ice, maybe its too cold to feel like venturing out, or maybe you simply want to try something new, here are some TV ideas to entertain and or educate that you can buy or rent on DVD, stream through an online service, or even catch aired reruns to beat the duldrums of winter. FOR THE GROWN UPS Game of Thrones - I cant mention TV shows without naming one of my all time favorites currently airing on HBO. This cable series is a fantasy series based on the novels by George R. R. Martin. Beautifully filmed with great acting talents, this series about a mythical land and the struggle for power after the death of the king brings whole new meaning to the word suspenseful. It is two seasons into the series with the next one starting March 31, 2013. The Walking Dead - This is an original series airing on the AMC network that follows a band of people trying to survive in a world where the dead come back to life and eat the living a zombie apocalypse. Original is only the first word that comes to mind when describing this comic book based show. Well acted with tension filling every scene this one is sure to please the survivalist in all of us. Sons of Anarchy - Airing on the FX network SOA follows the lives of the members of an outlaw motorcycle gang. Struggles within the club plus strife outside the club offer enough drama to keep those bored with TV from losing interest. With amazing talent including Ron Perlman and Katey Sagal and extraordinary story telling youll have four seasons to catch up on as the fifth one approaches. FOR THE FAMILY Mythbusters - Sure, we could have placed this one under educational as well, but lets face it, watching explosions is just too much fun. On the Discovery Channel and having run for years, this show led by Jamie Hyneman and Adam Savage explores the reality behind what we have accepted into pop culture as metaphors or urban legend as well as just testing Hollywoods version of reality. Buffy, the Vampire Slayer - Sure its an oldie, but it is a goodie, and with the popularity of vampires in pop culture it is still timely. Funny and fun this story surrounds Buffy, a typical high school girl, who happens to discover that she is the chosen one to defend the world from evil. Better yet, the vampires have fangs and dont sparkle. EDUCATIONAL How the States Got Their Shapes - For the fans of U.S. History comes this program airing on the History 2 channel. Host Brian Unger delivers information about our country and how the borders of the states got to their current shape in a fun and delightful to watch format. Through the Wormhole - Morgan Freeman hosts this series airing on the Science Channel. Some of the top minds of our time make learning about topics from astronomy to physics to biology fun and understandable with Morgan Freemans delightful character and voice leading the way. Mankind: The Story of All of Us - A new series from the History Channel, this one looks at various periods through history at moments that have shaped us as a people to become who we are today. Narrated by Josh Brolin with reenactments of historical events it is educational while entertaining.

STAYING IN - TV

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The Pulse - January 2013 - Page 41

The
DINING OUT

Great
good too. Dont show up looking for ambience, but if you want a good piece of meat with simple sides, Zollies has it. They also have other dishes but those rib eyes are quite the hit. Mollys Landing, Catoosa, (918) 266-7853, 3700 North Highway 66, www.mollyslanding.com While Mollys touts itself as a seafood restaurant, many come for that fat slab of red meat that Mollys does so well. They have some really nice alternatives to the usual meat and potatoes fare with Tecate fried mushrooms, artichokes and toast and other dishes that will appeal to the patron looking for something new. They also caught our attention with their whipped coffee and prawns. Head on over to Mollys Landing for a change from the everyday slab of meat. T-Bones Place, Tahlequah www.tbonesplace.com, 109 W. Willis Road, (918) 458-0001 What used to be a nightlife spot has been transformed into a great place to get grass fed beef served all kinds of ways as well as seafood, chicken and Sunday brunch. We love the onion

Flint Creek Steakhouse, Cherokee Casino, W. Siloam Springs, www.cherokeestarrewards.com, 800.754.4111 Not a typical deli or quick meal kind of place like you might find in some other casinos, Flint Creek is classy and very exciting; they have appetizers that make our mouths water just talking about them, but the steaks are simply amazing. Aged 21 days and served any cut or way you want, Flint Creek has it all. This is the place where you can eat steak or any other number of things they offer, including salads, chicken, veal and plenty of sides, not just French fries or baked potato like many other places. This is truly a great night out for the two of you, but if you want to go as a family, you might want to call ahead as many casinos are 18 or 21 and over. Zollies, Muskogee, 1100 North York Street, Muskogee, (918) 683-4690 The number of reviews says it all. They arent expensive and you are welcome to show up in jeans or wear your Sunday best, but Zollies has some of the best rib eyes youve ever put in your mouth. Their baked potatoes are huge and the bread is pretty

D E L RANCHO Were doing Dining DEL R A N C H O Romantic


OPEN 6AM - MIDNIGHT BREAKFAST 6AM-11AM LUNCH DINNER TRIPLE DRIVE-THRU
Se rv sin ing ce O 50 the klah s lat oma e

for February

456-0757
4800 S. MUSKOGEE AVE TAHLEQUAH, OK

LUNCH $5.95 SPECIALS


Eggplant Parmigiana Eggplant Rollantini Cheese, Meat or Spinach Ravioli Lasagna Manicotti Spaghetti Baked Ziti Pasta Sampler Tue - Sun: 11am - 9:30pm Stromboli Minestrone Soup Fri - Sat: 11am - 10:30pm Chicken Caesar Salad (Closed Mondays) Calzone Spinach Calzone 901 S Muskogee Tahlequah, OK

Tell us about your favorite

Italian Restaurant

(WITH SALAD & BREAD)

Romantic Destination Facebook Page

and well tally your votes in our February issue. Visit our or email us at editor@mypulsemag.com to submit your place to dine with your significant other.
www.myPulsemag.com

918-207-0870

Wine & Beer Served

Page 42 - January 2013 - The Pulse

of

Green Country
a classy place to go for a special celebration or as a pleasant surprise. Their menu isnt big, but as long as you are a red meat eater, youll definitely find a dish that will please your palate. All dishes are served a la carte, but the sides are big enough to share. We highly recommend the Mac N Cheese with toasted Parmesan crumb topping as well as the fried calamari or trout dip for your appetizer. We wont bother to pick a steak because they are all good so you just need to find your preference. McGills, multiple locations in Tulsa, www.dinemcgills.com, 6058 S. Yale (918-388-8080), 1560 E. 21st St. (918-742-8080 Utica Square), 777 W. Cherokee Street, Catoosa (800-760-6700) With three locations in the Tulsa area, including one in the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, you only need to decide which one to get to and the menu will sort itself out. They have quite an extensive menu, with lunch, dinner and wine menus that include salads, appetizers and soups, but if you are there for the beef, you might want to cut back on the extras or take home half of your food for later. They also have specials like price appetizers M-F 4 pm 6 pm and Sunday night lobster broils, so check their Website for the latest offerings. The Branch, Tahlequah, 505 N. Muskogee Ave. www.thebrancheatery.com, (918) 456-1500 Weve never had anything at The Branch that we didnt like and since we are talking about it, its worth mentioning that if you can stop by for lunch, try their burgers because they are spectacular, but their steaks are done to perfection as well as serving up some sides that will knock your socks off. Make The Branch that special place you go just to take a break from the everyday options offered elsewhere. Sit by the windows for a great view while you dine to make it even more appealing. They also serve some really nice lunches and healthier fare including soups and salads. We recommend reservations on the weekend because the word is getting out quick.

loaf but dont try to find it on Weight Watchers (which is what makes it yummier) as well as the variety of ways you can get your burger cooked as well as the toppings you can pick from. Freddies Steakhouse, Drumright, 1605 West Broadway Street, (918) 352-9021, www.freddiessteakhouse.com Open since 1946, Freddies has great Lebanese appetizers and they cook their steaks over hickory logs, but we are quite impressed by their variety of offerings including alligator bites, cabbage rolls and oysters on the half shell to name a few. Their prices are good and if you want to stay for a bit, they also have cabins and hotel rooms to let. Dont confuse Freddies Steakhouse with the Freddies BBQ Steak House in Sapulpa. They are on the lake so you can come in off the boat if you want to frequent Keystone Lake. Mahogany Prime Steakhouse, 6823 S. Yale,Ave, Tulsa, (918) 494-4043, www.mahogany.ehsrg.com Owned by the Hal Smith Restaurant Group, Mahogany is truly

DINING OUT

The Dining Room


@Go Ye Village

Spcialty Night Tuesday 5pm-7pm

Breakfast 7am-9am

Lunch 11:30am-1pm Dinner 5:30pm-6:30pm

1201 W. Fourth St. Tahlequah, OK 74464 918-456-4542


like us on facebook

www.goyevillage.org
The Pulse - January 2013 - Page 43

www

www.myPulsemag.com

The

Great

of

Green Country

KTK Steakhouse, 2505 S. Muskogee Avenue, Tahlequah, (918) 453-0300, Facebook While many already know that KTK is a great place for a romantic dinner for two or a special place to hold a business lunch, what many may not know is that KTK offers lunch for $5.95 M-F and its truly worth a visit. What we really like about KTK are their appetizers. You can make a meal of them and not feel any remorse for skipping your entre. OR try the burger: it will melt in your mouth. With all kinds of options for everyone in your dining party, let KTK take care of you. Theyve been doing steaks for quite some time now and you are assured a great meal with great service. They are having a contest for January, so check out their Facebook page for the details: www.facebook.com/pages/KTK-Steakhouse. Stonehill Grill, 1220 N. Main St., Miami, (918) 542-3563, www.stonehillgrill.com Despite the fact we havent been there in a while, the impression left on us hasnt dwindled. Stonehouse Grill has menu upon menu of choices, so dont think you are limited to a steak and nothing more. Their Loaded Farmhouse Chips are a decadent appetizer that can easily be your meal, or try their chopped sirloin for a

change from the usual slab of meat. With onions, mushrooms and brown gravy, its already soft so not a lot of chewing required, leaving you time for savoring. We really like their Lunch Combo menu where you can select two items from the 20 choices for only $7.99 or go for a nice salad for $4.99 (select from five options: Fiesta Chicken, Fried Chicken, Asian or Grilled Chicken or the Chicken Caeser) or select the Perfect Portion (the grilled chicken breast and side is healthy and tasty) for only $7.99, but for a good steak, they still know what they are doing. With a different soup for every day of the week, you will find something to warm your insides and satisfy your tummy without piling on the pounds. Murphys Steakhouse, 1625 SW Frank Phillips Blvd, Bartlesville, (918) 336-4789, Facebook Murphys has been a Bartlesville icon for many years and if you are tired of the usual white gravy smothered chicken fried steak, then Murphys has the cure with their brown gravy and burgers that just melt in your mouth. Might we suggest the fries with brown gravy? You havent lived until youve had fries smothered in brown gravy. Despite being known as a steak house, many consider Murphys more akin to a diner inside with a counter with stools and booths, but you wont be stuck waiting forever for your meal, so if you need a hot, delicious slab of red meat and you need it quick (yet tasty!) then Murphys has you covered. If you are all about the food, not ambiance, then let Murphys fill you up right quick.

Live Music Wed, Fri & Sat Nights

Restaurant Hours Mon-Tues 11am-9pm Wed-Sat 11am-10pm Closed Sunday

Tahlequah, Oklahoma 505 N. Muskogee

Voted

in tahlequah

Best steak

Sunday Brunch 10am - 2pm


2505 S MUSKOGEE,
TAHLEQUAH, OK
CLOSED SUN-MON

TUE-SAT: 11-9

Page 44 - January 2013 - The Pulse

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January 23:
Check with the venue or venue website for specific information and ticket availability.

Jekyll & Hyde, Tulsa PAC - Liddy Doenges Theatre, Tulsa

Feb. 2013
February 1:
Bob Schneider, Cains Ballroom, Tulsa Jason Boland & the Stragglers, Buffalo Run Casino, Miami Lady of the Camellias, Tulsa PAC Chapman Music Hall, Tulsa The Lost Pages of Rumplestiltskin and the Beanstalk Conspiracy, Tulsa PAC Liddy Doenges Theatre, Tulsa

Jan. 2013
January 9: January 10:

January 24:

Drive-By Truckers, Cains Ballroom, Tulsa Jekyll & Hyde, Tulsa PAC - Liddy Doenges Theatre, Tulsa

Justin Bieber, BOK Center, Tulsa

January 25:

Stomp, Bartlesville Community Center, Bartlesville Tuesdays with Morrie, Tulsa PAC Liddy Doenges Theatre, Tulsa

January 11:

Downlink / Liquid Strangers, Cains Ballroom, Tulsa Tuesdays with Morrie, Tulsa PAC Liddy Doenges Theatre, Tulsa

Air Supply, River Spirit Event Center, Tulsa Cody Canada & the Departed, Cains Ballroom, Tulsa Jekyll & Hyde, Tulsa PAC - Liddy Doenges Theatre, Tulsa Kevin Fowler, Buffalo Run Casino, Miami Rock the Presidents, Tulsa PAC - John H. Williams Theatre, Tulsa Tulsa Gridiron, Tulsa PAC - Liddy Doenges Theatre, Tulsa

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

February 2:

Lady of the Camellias, Tulsa PAC Chapman Music Hall, Tulsa The Lost Pages of Rumplestiltskin and the Beanstalk Conspiracy, Tulsa PAC Liddy Doenges Theatre, Tulsa

January 26:

February 3:

January 12:

Stoney LaRue, Cains Ballroom, Tulsa Tuesdays with Morrie, Tulsa PAC Liddy Doenges Theatre, Tulsa

January 18:

Junior Brown, Cains Ballroom, Tulsa Omea Honor Band Concert, Tulsa PAC Chapman Music Hall, Tulsa Rascal Flatts, BOK Center, Tulsa Sammy Hagar & the Wabos, The Joint, Tulsa

Daughtry and Three Doors Down, Tulsa Convention Center Arena, Tulsa Frank Vignola, Tulsa PAC - John H. Williams Theatre, Tulsa Jekyll & Hyde, Tulsa PAC - Liddy Doenges Theatre, Tulsa Tracy Lawrence, Osage Casino - Tulsa Event Center, Tulsa Tributes for Taron, Cains Ballroom, Tulsa Tulsa Gridiron, Tulsa PAC - Liddy Doenges Theatre, Tulsa

The Lost Pages of Rumplestiltskin and the Beanstalk Conspiracy, Tulsa PAC Liddy Doenges Theatre, Tulsa

February 5:

Diana Ross, The Joint, Tulsa G-Love & Special Sauce, Cains Ballroom, Tulsa

February 7: February 8:

Savoy, Cains Ballroom, Tulsa Barefoot in the Park, Tulsa PAC - John H. Williams Theatre, Tulsa Harlem Globetrotters, BOK Center, Tulsa

January 27: January 28: January 29: January 30: January 31:

January 19:

Jekyll & Hyde, Tulsa PAC - Liddy Doenges Theatre, Tulsa Rick Jawnson, Cherokee Casino, Ramona Badfish, Cains Ballroom, Tulsa Matchbox Twenty, The Joint, Tulsa

Omea All-State Music Festival, Tulsa PAC - Chapman Music Hall, Tulsa Riverfield Rocks the Cains, Cains Ballroom, Tulsa Wayne Newton, The Joint, Tulsa

February 9:

January 22:

Page 46 - January 2012 - The Pulse

If You Give a Mouse a Cookie, Tulsa Convention Center, Tulsa Jekyll & Hyde, Tulsa PAC - Liddy Doenges Theatre, Tulsa Trampled by Turtles, Cains Ballroom, Tulsa

Rick Jawnson, Cherokee Casino, Ramona

Barefoot in the Park, Tulsa PAC - John H. Williams Theatre, Tulsa Bill Maher, Brady Theater, Tulsa Faculty Art Show, Tulsa PAC, Tulsa Jonathan Tyler & the Northern Lights, Cains Ballroom, Tulsa Kid Rock, BOK Center, Tulsa Tulsa Symphony: Red, Tulsa PAC Chapman Music Hall, Tulsa

Waka Winter Classic, Cains Ballroom, Tulsa

www.myPulsemag.com

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

www.myPulsemag.com

The Pulse - January 2012 - Page 47

Deana Franke

Homegrown Heroes
the couch, the floor or wherever space could be had. It takes a very special person to open up their personal space to help another and Deana is one of those truly special people. What places like HIC need are more people to offer their time, help and hope to survivors of abuse. You dont have to open up your home (unless you want to), but now is a great time to go through your closets and pull out serviceable clothing, shoes, coats, scarves and whatever else you no longer need and donate these items to places like HIC. This is also a perfect time of year to make your financial contributions to organizations like HIC, and now more than ever, they need financial help. With the federal cutbacks on just about everything, many of these places are under very real threat of having to shut their doors, leaving many abuse survivors nowhere to go but back to their abuser. Another way to help is to get involved with the fund raisers that places like HIC sponsor. HIC in particular has their annual Walk a Mile in Her Shoes event every spring where men throughout the community do a walk through town in high heels (ouch! We want to know where they find high heels in sizes 10-13!) to raise money and awareness for abuse. The event is fun to watch and a great way for you to get out and show support. Contact your local shelter and ask to be placed on their e-mail blasts. Pick a few every year to attend and no matter how much you can afford, you will know that your money is being put to a great cause right here in Green Country.

For our January Homegrown Hero, we thought long and hard about who to choose, and then it became abundantly clear to us: we needed an advocate for those who either cannot or are too afraid to speak for themselves. After asking around, the same name came up again and again: Deana Franke, Executive Director of Help In Crisis in Tahlequah. Deana Franke started out working a crisis hot line that she learned about through a flyer at the local public library (is there anything libraries dont have?). She thought working the hot line would be a good way to meet people and give something back. What she never saw coming was how far this small deed would take her. Now, Deana is getting ready to retire after over 30 years at Help In Crisis, leaving behind some pretty big shoes to fill. What stood out to us the most is that Deana doesnt work in a vacuum and she is quick to recognize those who have helped Help In Crisis grow to the four-county service agency it is today. What we did not know was how many people volunteer to help these organizations stay alive and sometimes thrive. Many college students, military members, local police, hospital workers and others take time from their own busy lives to help places like Help In Crisis do all kinds of things from organizing clothing at resale shops to making food for those in need to moving offices when the old ones are no longer viable. What we also learned about Deana is that she is a kind soul. Before HIC had a shelter, Deana would have people who escaped their attackers and were staying in her living room, sleeping on

HOMEGROWN HERO

Page 48 - January 2013 - The Pulse

www.myPulsemag.com

People like Deana have paved the way for the rest of us to do our part to make these shelters a place of hope for so many, so maybe its time for the rest of us to walk along that path and help those right in our own neighborhoods. When asked what kept her going, Deana gave us one of the most heart-warming statements weve heard in a long time: I got more than I gave. Peoples spirits are so strong. It went well most days and that kept me going, but none of it would have been possible without the people around me. My husband helped and supported me. That is so huge. He supported me beyond anything I could have hoped for. He understood that this is 24/7 for the past 32 years. My kids were also supportive. Also, it wasnt just me. God, family, friends, staff all played a big part in making HIC what it is today. The work isnt finished. Help In Crisis desperately needs volunteers. Even if you only have a few hours to pitch in, your help is desperately needed and appreciated. You dont have to make a

HOMEGROWN HERO

big commitment and if you dont have the money, they need help with so many things. If you know someone who is suffering from abuse, please do not ignore it. Many abused people (especially children) dont know that there are options for a better life. Ignoring abuse doesnt make it disappear. Do you know of a child (or adult) who is being abused but cannot speak for themselves? Call Oklahoma Child Protective Services at (800) 522-3511 or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at (800) 799-SAFE (7233) to report it. Tulsa has an abuse hot line too: (918) 7HELPME (743-5763). If you think someone is in serious danger, do not hesitate to dial 911. Together, we can all do something to stop domestic violence. Find out more about domestic violence in Oklahoma at www. okdvhelp.com. If you are a victim of abuse, PLEASE visit www. Shelternet.ca for help on making a safety plan to get you on your way to a better (and violence-free) life. You can also call any of the numbers at Oklahoma Child Protective Services or 911. You are not alone and there are people who will help you, but they have to know about it to make it happen. The only thing you should not do is nothing. Many people are too afraid to take action, so its important that we take that first step for them. Thank you to Deana Franke for all you have done for the Tahlequah, Cherokee County area. May you have a long and happy retirement! Your friends at The Pulse

www.myPulsemag.com

The Pulse - January 2013 - Page 49

Recipes for a cold winters day


Yep, its even too cold to run out for a pizza some days and getting out from under the blankets to make dinner seems like such a chore. Well, were here to help. We wanted to offer you some of our favorite comfort foods but were also offering some reduced calorie/lower fat options that will help your waistline while filling you with warm fuzzy feelings. Stay warm Green Country! Chicken Pot Pie 1 pound skinless, boneless chicken breast halves cubed 1 cup sliced carrots 1 cup frozen green peas 1/2 cup sliced celery 1/3 cup butter (you can reduce this by half if you like) 1/3 cup chopped onion 1/2 teaspoon salt teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon celery seed 1 3/4 cups chicken broth 2/3 cup milk (2% or skim milk can be used) 2 (9 inch) unbaked pie crusts Preheat oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C.) In a saucepan, combine chicken, carrots, peas, and celery. Add water to cover and boil for 15 minutes. Remove from heat, drain and set aside. In the saucepan over medium heat, cook onions in butter until soft and translucent. Stir in flour, salt, pepper, and celery seed. Slowly stir in chicken broth and milk. Simmer over medium-low heat until thick. Remove from heat and set aside. Place the chicken mixture in bottom pie crust. Pour hot liquid mixture over. Cover with top crust, seal edges, and cut away excess dough. Make several small slits in the top to allow steam to escape. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown and filling is bubbly. Cool for 10 minutes before serving. Meatloaf 2 eggs (or use egg substitute) 2/3 cup milk (2% or skim milk can be used) 2 tsp salt tsp black pepper 3 slices bread crumbled 1 lbs. ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken to cut back a few calories) 1 onion, chopped 1 c. shredded cheddar cheese (you can mix non-fat with regular, will still taste good) c shredded carrot c. brown sugar

STAYING IN

Page 50 - January 2013 - The Pulse

www.myPulsemag.com

c ketchup 1 tbsp yellow mustard 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). 2. Whisk eggs, milk, salt, and ground black pepper in a large bowl. Add crumbled bread and stir until dissolved. Mix ground beef, onion, Cheddar cheese, and carrot into bread mixture; transfer mixture to a 9x5-inch loaf pan. Combine brown sugar, ketchup, and mustard in a small bowl; spread over meat mixture. 3. Bake in the preheated oven until no longer pink in the center, 1 to 1 1/4 hours. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read at least 160 degrees F. Fake Mashed Potatoes 1-2 heads cauliflower Milk Butter or substitute Salt and pepper to taste This is a great recipe for those of us who love mashed potatoes but are looking to cut our calories (and a great compliment to the meatloaf recipe). All you do is cut the cauliflower bits off of the stalk, boil them until very soft and mash as you would potatoes. Add a bit of milk and butter to flavor them up and you can fake your mashed potatoes without feeling deprived. This works with all diets including the low carb ones. Youre welcome. Slow cooker baked potato soup 10 red potatoes cut into cubes 3 tbsp flour c real bacon bits (make your own and drain well on paper towels or use turkey bacon) 1 small red onion, chopped 2 tbsp chicken bouillion granules 1 tbsp ranch dressing mix 2 tsp. dried parsley 1 tsp seasoned salt tsp black pepper 3 c water 1 c. half and half (you can use non-fat/low-fat cream) c cheddar cheese or more if you like (you can mix non-fat with regular cheese) c. chopped green onion 1. Put potatoes in the bottom of your slow cooker crock. Scatter flour over the potatoes; toss to coat. 2. Scatter bacon bits, red onion, garlic, chicken bouillon, ranch dressing mix, parsley, seasoned salt, and black pepper over the potatoes. 3. Pour water into the slow cooker. 4. Cook on Low 7 to 9 hours. 5. Pour half-and-half into the soup; cook another 15 minutes. 6. Garnish with Cheddar cheese and green onion to serve.

Cheese Bread Theres nothing lowfat about this recipe; if you are looking to cut calories, this might be the one you skip, but its a great comfort food for a cold winters day) 8 oz. shredded Mozzarella cheese 1 lb. shredded sharp cheddar cheese 1/2 to 1 cup chopped green onion (to taste) 1/2 cup mayonnaise 2 Tbsp. sour cream (optional) 3-4 cloves garlic, minced 1 stick unsalted butter (1/2 cup, 4 ounces), softened to the point of being slightly melted 1 to 2 loaves of French or Italian bread, depending on the size of the loaves 1 In a large bowl, mix together the cheeses and the green onion. Stir in the mayonnaise and sour cream. In a separate small bowl blend the butter and garlic until smooth. Add the butter mixture to the cheese mixture. 2 Preheat broiler. Slice loaf of bread in half horizontally, lay crust side down. Spread cheese mixture over the bread. Place under the broiler until nicely browned, about 3 to 5 minutes. 3 Remove from broiler and let sit for 5 minutes until cool enough to handle. Slice the bread with a bread knife. Serve. Easy Shepherds Pie 1 1/2 lbs ground beef 1 onion chopped 1-2 cups vegetables - chopped carrots, corn, peas 1 1/2 - 2 lbs potatoes (3 big ones) 8 tablespoons butter (1 stick) 1/2 cup beef broth 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce Salt, pepper, other seasonings of choice 1 Peel and quarter potatoes, boil in salted water until tender (about 20 minutes). 2 While the potatoes are cooking, melt 4 Tablespoons butter (1/2 a stick) in large frying pan. 3 Saut onions in butter until tender over medium heat (10 mins). If you are adding vegetables, add them according to cooking time. Put any carrots in with the onions. Add corn or peas either at the end of the cooking of the onions, or after the meat has initially cooked. 4 Add ground beef and saut until no longer pink. Add salt and pepper. Add worcesterchire sauce. Add half a cup of beef broth and cook, uncovered, over low heat for 10 minutes, adding more beef broth as necessary to keep moist. 5 Mash potatoes in bowl with remainder of butter, season to taste. 6 Place beef and onions in baking dish. Distribute mashed potatoes on top. Rough up with a fork so that there are peaks that will brown nicely. You can use the fork to make some designs in the potatoes as well. 7 Cook in 400 degree oven until bubbling and brown (about 30 minutes). Broil for last few minutes if necessary to brown.

STAYING IN

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The Pulse - January 2013 - Page 51

JANUARY 2013
January 12:

Jan. 2013
January 1: January 2: January 3: January 4:
Tulsa Holiday Winter Circuit, Tulsa Fairgraounds - Ford Arena, Tulsa Tulsa Holiday Winter Circuit, Tulsa Fairgraounds - Ford Arena, Tulsa

All Star Challenge Cheerleading Competition, Tulsa Convention Center, Tulsa Landscapes from the Heart, Tulsa PAC Chapman Music Hall, Tulsa Painting Light & Atmosphere in Acrylics with Christopher Westfall, Gilcrease, Tulsa Photography of the American West, Gilcrease, Tulsa Tulsa Remodel & Landscape Show, Tulsa Convention Center, Tulsa

Western Hills Winter Bluegrass Festival, The Lodge at Sequoyah State Park, Wagoner

January 19:

January 13:

Tulsa Winter Art Camp, Gilcrease, Tulsa Landscapes from the Heart, Tulsa PAC Chapman Music Hall, Tulsa Tulsa Winter Art Camp, Gilcrease, Tulsa

Landscapes from the Heart, Tulsa PAC Chapman Music Hall, Tulsa Photography of the American West, Gilcrease, Tulsa Tulsa Remodel & Landscape Show, Tulsa Convention Center, Tulsa

Dr. Martin Luther King Soul Food Cook-Off, Muskogee Civic Center, Muskogee Eagle Tour and Loon Watch, Sequoyah Wildlife Refuge and Tenkiller State Park, Vian Landscapes from the Heart, Tulsa PAC Chapman Music Hall, Tulsa Photography of the American West, Gilcrease, Tulsa Tuff Truck & ATV Racing and Demolition Derby, Claremore Expo Center, Claremore Western Hills Winter Bluegrass Festival, The Lodge at Sequoyah State Park, Wagoner

MONTH AT A GLANCE

January 20:

January 14:

January 5:

Landscapes from the Heart, Tulsa PAC Chapman Music Hall, Tulsa Monster Jam, BOK Center, Tulsa

Landscapes from the Heart, Tulsa PAC Chapman Music Hall, Tulsa Photography of the American West, Gilcrease, Tulsa

Eagle Tour and Loon Watch, Sequoyah Wildlife Refuge and Tenkiller State Park, Vian Landscapes from the Heart, Tulsa PAC Chapman Music Hall, Tulsa Photography of the American West, Gilcrease, Tulsa

January 6:

January 15:

Landscapes from the Heart, Tulsa PAC Chapman Music Hall, Tulsa Monster Jam, BOK Center, Tulsa

January 7: January 8: January 9:

Landscapes from the Heart, Tulsa PAC Chapman Music Hall, Tulsa Photography of the American West, Gilcrease, Tulsa Preschool Picassos, Gilcrease, Tulsa

January 21:

Landscapes from the Heart, Tulsa PAC Chapman Music Hall, Tulsa Landscapes from the Heart, Tulsa PAC Chapman Music Hall, Tulsa Landscapes from the Heart, Tulsa PAC Chapman Music Hall, Tulsa

January 16:

Eagle Tour and Loon Watch, Sequoyah Wildlife Refuge and Tenkiller State Park, Vian Landscapes from the Heart, Tulsa PAC Chapman Music Hall, Tulsa Photography of the American West, Gilcrease, Tulsa

Landscapes from the Heart, Tulsa PAC Chapman Music Hall, Tulsa Photography of the American West, Gilcrease, Tulsa

January 22:

January 17:

January 10: January 11:

Landscapes from the Heart, Tulsa PAC Chapman Music Hall, Tulsa Photography of the American West, Gilcrease, Tulsa Western Hills Winter Bluegrass Festival, The Lodge at Sequoyah State Park, Wagoner

Eagle Tour and Loon Watch, Sequoyah Wildlife Refuge and Tenkiller State Park, Vian Landscapes from the Heart, Tulsa PAC Chapman Music Hall, Tulsa Photography of the American West, Gilcrease, Tulsa

January 23:

Landscapes from the Heart, Tulsa PAC Chapman Music Hall, Tulsa Landscapes from the Heart, Tulsa PAC Chapman Music Hall, Tulsa Photography of the American West, Gilcrease, Tulsa Tulsa Remodel & Landscape Show, Tulsa Convention Center, Tulsa

January 18:

Dr. Martin Luther King Soul Food Cook-Off, Muskogee Civic Center, Muskogee Landscapes from the Heart, Tulsa PAC Chapman Music Hall, Tulsa Photography of the American West, Gilcrease, Tulsa Tuff Truck & ATV Racing and Demolition Derby, Claremore Expo Center, Claremore

Eagle Tour and Loon Watch, Sequoyah Wildlife Refuge and Tenkiller State Park, Vian Landscapes from the Heart, Tulsa PAC Chapman Music Hall, Tulsa Photography of the American West, Gilcrease, Tulsa

January 24:

Eagle Tour and Loon Watch, Sequoyah Wildlife Refuge and Tenkiller State Park, Vian

Page 52 - January 2013 - The Pulse

www.myPulsemag.com

MONTH AT A GLANCE
Landscapes from the Heart, Tulsa PAC Chapman Music Hall, Tulsa Photography of the American West, Gilcrease, Tulsa

January 30:

January 25:

Eagle Tour and Loon Watch, Sequoyah Wildlife Refuge and Tenkiller State Park, Vian Landscapes from the Heart, Tulsa PAC Chapman Music Hall, Tulsa Photography of the American West, Gilcrease, Tulsa

Eagle Tour and Loon Watch, Sequoyah Wildlife Refuge and Tenkiller State Park, Vian Photography of the American West, Gilcrease, Tulsa Tulsa Boat, Sport & Travel Show, Quik Trip Center at Expo Square, Tulsa

Photography of the American West, Gilcrease, Tulsa Tulsa Boat, Sport & Travel Show, Quik Trip Center at Expo Square, Tulsa

February 4:

January 31:

January 26:

AMSOIL Arenacross, BOK Center, Tulsa Eagle Tour, Sequoyah State Park, Hulbert Eagle Tour and Loon Watch, Sequoyah Wildlife Refuge and Tenkiller State Park, Vian Landscapes from the Heart, Tulsa PAC Chapman Music Hall, Tulsa Miami tribal Stomp Dance, NEO College Arena, Miami Okie Flyers Fly-In, Claremore Regional Airport, Claremore Photography of the American West, Gilcrease, Tulsa

Eagle Tour and Loon Watch, Sequoyah Wildlife Refuge and Tenkiller State Park, Vian Home School Art Classes, Gilcrease, Tulsa Photography of the American West, Gilcrease, Tulsa Tulsa Boat, Sport & Travel Show, Quik Trip Center at Expo Square, Tulsa

Eagle Tour and Loon Watch, Sequoyah Wildlife Refuge and Tenkiller State Park, Vian Faculty Art Show, Tulsa PAC - Chapman Music Hall, Tulsa Home School Art Classes, Gilcrease, Tulsa Photography of the American West, Gilcrease, Tulsa

MONTH AT A GLANCE

February 5:

Feb. 2013
February 1:
American Arenacross, Claremore Expo Center, Claremore Eagle Tour and Loon Watch, Sequoyah Wildlife Refuge and Tenkiller State Park, Vian Faculty Art Show, Tulsa PAC - Chapman Music Hall, Tulsa Home School Art Classes, Gilcrease, Tulsa Photography of the American West, Gilcrease, Tulsa Tulsa Boat, Sport & Travel Show, Quik Trip Center at Expo Square, Tulsa

Eagle Tour and Loon Watch, Sequoyah Wildlife Refuge and Tenkiller State Park, Vian Faculty Art Show, Tulsa PAC - Chapman Music Hall, Tulsa Home School Art Classes, Gilcrease, Tulsa Photography of the American West, Gilcrease, Tulsa

February 6:

January 27:

AMSOIL Arenacross, BOK Center, Tulsa Eagle Tour and Loon Watch, Sequoyah Wildlife Refuge and Tenkiller State Park, Vian Landscapes from the Heart, Tulsa PAC Chapman Music Hall, Tulsa Photography of the American West, Gilcrease, Tulsa

Eagle Tour and Loon Watch, Sequoyah Wildlife Refuge and Tenkiller State Park, Vian Faculty Art Show, Tulsa PAC - Chapman Music Hall, Tulsa Home School Art Classes, Gilcrease, Tulsa Photography of the American West, Gilcrease, Tulsa

February 2:

February 7:

January 28:

Eagle Tour and Loon Watch, Sequoyah Wildlife Refuge and Tenkiller State Park, Vian Photography of the American West, Gilcrease, Tulsa Tulsa Boat, Sport & Travel Show, Quik Trip Center at Expo Square, Tulsa

January 29:

Eagle Tour and Loon Watch, Sequoyah Wildlife Refuge and Tenkiller State Park, Vian Photography of the American West, Gilcrease, Tulsa Tulsa Boat, Sport & Travel Show, Quik Trip Center at Expo Square, Tulsa

2013 Big Freeze 5K & Fun Run, LaFortune Park, Tulsa American Arenacross, Claremore Expo Center, Claremore Eagle Tour and Loon Watch, Sequoyah Wildlife Refuge and Tenkiller State Park, Vian Faculty Art Show, Tulsa PAC - Chapman Music Hall, Tulsa Home School Art Classes, Gilcrease, Tulsa Photography of the American West, Gilcrease, Tulsa Tulsa Boat, Sport & Travel Show, Quik Trip Center at Expo Square, Tulsa

Eagle Tour and Loon Watch, Sequoyah Wildlife Refuge and Tenkiller State Park, Vian Faculty Art Show, Tulsa PAC - Chapman Music Hall, Tulsa Home School Art Classes, Gilcrease, Tulsa Photography of the American West, Gilcrease, Tulsa

February 8:

February 3:

Eagle Tour and Loon Watch, Sequoyah Wildlife Refuge and Tenkiller State Park, Vian Faculty Art Show, Tulsa PAC - Chapman Music Hall, Tulsa Home School Art Classes, Gilcrease, Tulsa

Ann Compton, Tulsa PAC - Chapman Music Hall, Tulsa Eagle Tour and Loon Watch, Sequoyah Wildlife Refuge and Tenkiller State Park, Vian Faculty Art Show, Tulsa PAC - Chapman Music Hall, Tulsa Home & Garden Show, Grove Civic Center, Grove Home School Art Classes, Gilcrease, Tulsa Photography of the American West, Gilcrease, Tulsa Tulsa Indian Art Festival, Glenpool Conference Center, Glenpool

www.myPulsemag.com

The Pulse - January 2013 - Page 53

Coming in February
Hey Green Country: are you dying to know what we have planned for February? Well, heres a sneak peek at what we have planned: Valentines Day eats: where to go to share a special night with that special someone. Weddings in Green Country Where to find unique chocolates and wines Special stops for that sweet treat Ways to say I Love You without lamenting the loss to your bank account Recipes to warm their tummy and their heart There will be more, but we dont want to spoil the surprise, so keep an eye out for sweet treats from your friends at The Pulse for February. Some things you might want to do in the meantime: You might want to shop for your Valentines flowers now while they are affordable. Make sure your home is not losing heat by looking at your roof on a frosty morning; if you see frost, then your roof is keeping the heat in; if its wet, you may want to increase your insulation. If you are heating with wood, pellets or other flammable materials, be sure to check for ventilation issues. Instead of waiting for spring to do some cleaning, why not make this grey time of year the time when you clean out a closet, plan your garden or try someplace new for entertainment, a meal or to meet new friends? No one wants to be trapped indoors when its nice outside, so visit a new mall or revisit one you havent been to for a while. Heres your chance to use those gift cards you got for Christmas. Stock up on linens: January is a great time to purchase bed sheets and linens. We dont know why, but the really nice things go on deep sale this time of year. Happy New Year Green Country! We look forward to a great 2013 and thank you for all of the wonderful ideas, support and kind words from our readers.

COMING NEXT MONTH

YOUR PICTURE COULD BE OUR COVER! ThE PULsE Is hOLDIng a PhOTOgRaPhY COnTEsT!
If you are a LOCaL PhOTOgRaPhER and would like to see your work all over Green Country, we want to hear from you. Please submit a high resolution quality image of your photo to:

editor@mypulsemag.com.
MaRCh 2013.

All submissions will be posted online. The winner will be featured on our cover for Your high resolution image must be submitted no later than February 8th, 2013 to be in consideration. Please take into account that, although we appreciate all forms of photography, we are a family friendly magazine and content must be appropriate for our audience. Page 54 - January 2013 - The Pulse www.myPulsemag.com

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