Tom and Bev's Blog

The new BOK events center is set to open in Tulsa, Oklahoma on September 6^th.  Many were worried if there would be enough security at such a large place. Worry no more. It has been recently announced that there will be more than plenty security guards and police officers to keep everyone attending safe.

Guards and officers will be inside and outside of each event. They will help direct traffic, watch parking lots, and patrol the area.

There will be a ribbon cutting ceremony August 30^th at 10am. Legendary Garth Brooks will be cutting the ribbon. The first act will be a big one on September 6^th, with the Eagles opening the show. They will appear again in November.

Whether you live in Tulsa or are planning to visit, be sure to check out the new BOK center. There will be lots of great events going on.

The Citizens Police Academy was started back in 1987 and has been a huge hit with over a thousand local Tulsa, Oklahoma residents. The next Citizens Police Academy at the Tulsa Police Department will be on September 2^nd.

If you live in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and would like to step into the life of a police officer, then come to the Tulsa Police Department and sign up. Spaces will go fast, so hurry on in.

The Citizens Police Academy originally started to let residents of Tulsa know how their tax money is being spent, and what life as an officer of the law is really like. So far, everyone that has taken the class will agree that it's nothing like what you see on the T.V. or in the movies.

Residents get a complete understanding of what an officer goes through each and everyday. The class will outline the responsibilities and duties of a Tulsa police officer.

Citizens Police Academy classes are held each Tuesday evening for a total of 14 weeks. Students will learn something new each week. They will get to see how the Special Operations Team works, they will visit the crime lab, they will tour the police helicopter, and they will get to take part in police-made scenarios. And, to give a feel of a real cop, they will even get to shoot a gun at the range.

We like the idea of the academy. It's a great way to be a better member of the Tulsa community.

When buying a home, most people try to avoid homes that are close to traffic noise. Avoid no more. There are ways to reduce the noise so you can have the home of your dreams no matter where it is.

Many homeowners make the mistake of adding an extra layer of drywall, but that really does not help. Windows are the key to noise reduction. So, if you have found your dream home but can't stand the noise, then window replacement can make a huge difference in making the noise less noticeable.

The first thing you should do is listen to the windows from inside the home to help you decide if that is the underlying cause of the noise. Windows are rated by the Sound Transmission Class (STC) ratings. Remember when replacing your home's windows, look for a high rating. The higher the rating, the less noise you hear from outside.

Here are some examples of STC ratings:

• The average single-pane window has a rating of 22-25. With these windows, you will have a lot of noise coming into the home from outside.
• The average duel-pane window has a rating of 27-32. With these windows, you will have much less noise coming into the home from outside.
• The average specialty windows have a much higher STC rating, but you have to have them specially made.

Another popular noise reduction solution is adding a water feature, such as an indoor water fountain, to the home. Water features tend to wash the noise away and can be very relaxing to have around. Depending on the noise level, you may need more than one fountain. Water features are also great in reducing noise in a home's backyard or other exterior parts of the home.

So, don't let a little or a lot of noise keep you from buying a home. Just try these great noise reducing solutions. We have found many homeowners in Tulsa, Oklahoma will agree.

Many people have had a tight budget this past year.  So, in effort to help families with children, Tulsa , Oklahoma will have several free local events.  This is a great opportunity for all families.  So, bring your children to one of the following locations to get free school supplies, haircuts and immunizations.

• Tulsa Dream Center - August 9^th and 12^th.  Child must be present to receive school supplies on Saturday and hair cuts on Tuesday.  Grades k-12 for school supplies and children 12 and under for hair cuts. 
• Christian Ministers Alliance & Tulsa Police Department - August 9^th from 11 am to 3 pm.  Pre-K-12 school supplies, vision screening, blood drive, and immunizations.
• The Assembly at Broken Arrow - August 9^th from 9 am to 1 pm.  K-12 school supplies, immunizations, breakfast and lunch, and free haircuts.
• Restore Hope Ministries - August 15^th from 9:30 to 12 pm and 1:30 to 3 pm.  K-12 school supplies.  Must have child's social security card and an ID.
• Broken Arrow Neighbors & Broken Arrow Police Department - August 9^th from 10 am to 2 pm.  Activities for kids and k-12 school supplies.
• Bixby Community Outreach - August 14^th from 9 am to 4 pm.  Must register to receive free school supplies and clothing.
• Meadowcrest Methodist Church - August 11^th and 14^th from 10 am to 1 pm and 5 pm to 7 pm.  Pre-k-5 school supplies.
• John 3:16 Mission - August 9^th from 9 am to 4 pm.  Activities for children and free clothing.
• Operation School Bell - August 19^th.  Free school lunch for those who qualify.  K-5 clothing.
• Clary Sage College Cool Cuts for School - August 13^th and 14^th from 10:30 am to 3 pm and 5:30 pm to 10:30 pm.  Free haircuts for kids 5-17.  Space is limited, call for an appointment.

We just love what the community of Tulsa , Oklahoma is doing for our young ones.