Dibble Senior Citizens News
Greetings to the Seniors of the Dibble Community!!!
Last week was a big hit, with two major events taking place!! On Tuesday, 17 folks loaded up from the Center and went to Regional Food Bank for our quarterly Pay Back Day. I never want to see cauliflower again in my life!! I don’t like cauliflower and I don’t like anyone who does. We suited up and bagged almost 3,000 pounds of the frozen vegetables, representing 2,954 plate portions. It was all fun in the end, but we did miss “Happy Hour” at Sonic afterwards. We’ll get ‘em next time!
Later, on Thursday, 20 folks journeyed to Chickasha for Roy’s Barbeque and the Plummer Family show from Branson, Missouri. All had fun, although Melba Cash was inspired to take up yodeling. Please!!! Also, we got enough of Betty Vaughn singing “Stand By Your Man”!!
Remember our sick list and those in poor health. Remember next Friday is our Thanksgiving dinner and that we will be closed the whole next week.
I would hate to be in the shoes of our national leaders right now, considering the momentous decisions they are facing, especially concerning seniors. It is hard for seniors to determine who is right and who is wrong on such weighty issues. Some say our president is a hot dog and should do what folks with more experience tell him to do. We got that last time!!! As a senior, I think I would tell him not to be afraid to try something new. After all, it was a rank amateur that built the Ark. A group of professionals built the Titanic!! As a senior, I would also tell him at this pivotal point in history, do not under any circumstances, take a sleeping pill and Ex-Lax on the same night…you have enough problems!!!
All for now………………….
Menu – Closed all of Thanksgiving Week
Written by Eddie Cantrell
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Senior says he may do without meal
Senior says he may do without meal
BY ROBERT FOX
STAFF WRITER
RFOX@LAWTON-CONSTITUTION.COM
So far, the effects of the 25 percent budget cut to the Comanche County Nutrition Project haven’t been felt by those who use it.
Bob Burger, 77, still isn’t happy that the nutrition project received such a deep budget cut. He said so far it hasn’t hit the people who use the program, but it’s coming. He said Julie Justice, Comanche County project director, has done a “tremendous job” of minimizing the impact of the budget cut on the people who use the nutrition project.
“As usual they (legislators) are balancing the budget on the backs of seniors,” he said, and he’s confident there is another solution to the budget shortfall without cutting the nutrition project.
Burger eats at Pleasent Valley Nutrition Center every day it’s open. He said if a second round of budget cuts forces Justice to close the centers for one day a week, it may mean that he has to do without a meal that day.
“I’ll deal with that when the time comes,” he said.
Burger said he’s been using the nutrition program for about 11 years because it helps supplement his diet.
“It’s more than just a feeding site,” he said, “I think that’s something the lawmakers have lost sight of.”
The centers provide many seniors with a chance to socialize that they otherwise wouldn’t have, he said.
“With seniors, that socialization with other people is very important,” he said.
Lettie Davis, on the other hand, says while she may not agree with the budget cuts, she understands that with the shortfall, budgets were going to be reduced.
Davis, who eats at the Patterson Community Center, said she would rather see the centers open on a reduced budget than see the program scrapped all together.
“I say they gotta do what they gotta do,” she said.
Davis said if other centers closed even one day a week, it would be a hardship for the seniors who count on the nutrition project for a meal.
She said she attended a question-and-answer session with Ken Jones, who oversees administration of 32 nutrition sites in eight counties including Comanche County, and she is confident that Patterson Center won’t be closing any time soon.
JEFF DIXON/STAFF
Harvey Reid, volunteer site manager, serves lunch to Vernice Stuart, front, and Kathy Elam at the Paradise Valley Nutrition Center Friday.
Harvey Reid, volunteer site manager, serves lunch to Vernice Stuart, front, and Kathy Elam at the Paradise Valley Nutrition Center Friday.
Program takes 25 percent cut in state funding; may face more
County nutrition sites face cutsProgram takes 25 percent cut in state funding; may face moreBY ROBERT FOX |
Friday, November 13, 2009
DHS director: Cuts affect vulnerable Oklahomans
DHS director: Cuts affect vulnerable Oklahomans
OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — The director of the state Department of Human Services warned lawmakers Thursday that additional budget cuts will force his agency to scale back more services to vulnerable Oklahomans like a nutrition program for frail and isolated senior citizens that has already been cut by more than $7 million. “You’re going to see services cut to people who are more vulnerable than you appreciate,” DHS Secretary Howard Hendricks told members of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Health and Human Services. “We probably serve one million Oklahomans in the course of a year. It’s an enormous undertaking,” Hendricks said of his agency, which provides services to the elderly, abused and neglected children and people with developmental disabilities. The department has asked that its current state appropriation of about $479 million be maintained for the fiscal year that begins July 1. But lawmakers said another round of budget cuts is likely as state revenue continues to decline. “There’s going to be cuts, and they’re going to be painful,” said Sen. David Myers, R-Ponca City. “We are cutting deep,” said Sen. Brian Crain, R-Tulsa, the subcommittee’s chairman. Hendricks said any reduction in services would likely occur in programs in which little or no federal matching funds would be lost. Including federal dollars, the agency’s budget totals more than $2 billion. State Treasurer Scott Meacham’s office reported Tuesday that state revenue came in below expectations in October for the 10th straight month due to low oil and natural gas prices and the economic downturn. Collections by the state’s general revenue fund in October were $374.4 million. That was $116.1 million, or 24 percent, below the previous year, and $83.3 million, or 18 percent, below the state’s budget estimate. For the first four months of the fiscal year that began on July 1, collections are $578.1 million, or 28.1 percent, below the prior year and $471.7 million, or 24.2 percent, below the estimate.
** From November 13 Lawton Constitution.
OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — The director of the state Department of Human Services warned lawmakers Thursday that additional budget cuts will force his agency to scale back more services to vulnerable Oklahomans like a nutrition program for frail and isolated senior citizens that has already been cut by more than $7 million. “You’re going to see services cut to people who are more vulnerable than you appreciate,” DHS Secretary Howard Hendricks told members of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Health and Human Services. “We probably serve one million Oklahomans in the course of a year. It’s an enormous undertaking,” Hendricks said of his agency, which provides services to the elderly, abused and neglected children and people with developmental disabilities. The department has asked that its current state appropriation of about $479 million be maintained for the fiscal year that begins July 1. But lawmakers said another round of budget cuts is likely as state revenue continues to decline. “There’s going to be cuts, and they’re going to be painful,” said Sen. David Myers, R-Ponca City. “We are cutting deep,” said Sen. Brian Crain, R-Tulsa, the subcommittee’s chairman. Hendricks said any reduction in services would likely occur in programs in which little or no federal matching funds would be lost. Including federal dollars, the agency’s budget totals more than $2 billion. State Treasurer Scott Meacham’s office reported Tuesday that state revenue came in below expectations in October for the 10th straight month due to low oil and natural gas prices and the economic downturn. Collections by the state’s general revenue fund in October were $374.4 million. That was $116.1 million, or 24 percent, below the previous year, and $83.3 million, or 18 percent, below the state’s budget estimate. For the first four months of the fiscal year that began on July 1, collections are $578.1 million, or 28.1 percent, below the prior year and $471.7 million, or 24.2 percent, below the estimate.
** From November 13 Lawton Constitution.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
FW: Legislative Update: House Passes Historic Health Care Bill
November 10, 2009
House Passes Historic Health Care Bill
Late Saturday, the House of Representatives passed the first major health care reform bill (H.R. 3962, the Affordable Health Care for America Act) in 40 years, by a vote of 220-215. The razor-thin margin of only two votes beyond a majority of 218 was only possible after Democratic leaders negotiated with anti–abortion rights members of their party to amend the bill to restrict women from purchasing coverage for abortion care with their own funds in the health insurance exchanges and public plan that the legislation created.
With one lone exception, House Republicans opposed the health care bill and were joined by 39 Democrats who also voted against it. (To find out how your Representative voted on the bill, visit: THOMAS.) The rule setting the parameters for the debate allowed for just two amendments, a Republican alternative measure and the previously mentioned abortion-related amendment. As a result, Members of both parties were unable to offer floor amendments to the bill to add or change specific provisions.
n4a signed on to a number of coalition letters in support of specific provisions in the bill that would benefit older adults. The provisions of Project 2020 were not included in the House bill that went to the floor, and Rep. Bruce Braley (D-IA), the House sponsor of Project 2020, was unable to offer a planned floor amendment to add its provisions due to the “closed” rule process. Although n4a was glad to see that a robust CLASS Act insurance plan was included in the House bill.
We are hopeful that the House bill will be improved in the area of long-term services and supports during conference with the Senate as the process continues. We are interested in hearing what you think about the House bill as we continue to push for our priorities focusing on the core elements of the Project 2020 bill in health reform legislation. To share your feedback, visit n4a’s Advocacy Feedback web page.
Key Provisions of the House Bill
The bill would require most individuals to buy health insurance if they do not get it through their jobs, beginning in 2013. Families with incomes up to 400 percent of the federal poverty level could qualify for financial assistance.
Employers with annual payrolls over $500,000 would be required to provide coverage or contribute to a fund for such coverage. It would create an “exchange” in each state where individuals and certain small businesses could shop for insurance policies, and it would create a public insurance plan to compete with offerings from private companies.
Insurance companies could no longer refuse to cover customers with pre-existing medical conditions, impose annual or lifetime benefit limits or cancel a policy when someone files expensive claims.
The measure also would expand eligibility for Medicaid to individuals and families with incomes up to 150 percent of the poverty level.
Payments under the Medicare Advantage program would be reduced and the Medicare prescription drug program would be enhanced by phasing out the gap in coverage or “doughnut hole.”
The bill contains the provisions of the Community Living Assistance Supports and Services (CLASS) Act to establish a voluntary national long-term care insurance program to help adults who have or develop functional impairments to remain independent, employed, and stay a part of their community.
The bill would impose a tax surcharge of 5.4 percent on couples with gross incomes of more than $1 million and individuals with incomes of more than $500,000, and a 2.5 percent excise tax on the sale or lease of medical devices.
The Congressional Budget Office estimates that the gross cost of the bill would be almost $1.1 trillion through fiscal 2019, but the net cost, after taxes, fees and penalties are taken into account, would be $894 billion. CBO estimates the bill would actually reduce the deficit by $104 billion, as a result of tax provisions and spending reductions.
The House rule adopted for health care reform also sets up an upcoming debate on a separate measure to change the way Medicare reimburses physicians. The physicians’ pay bill would block a 21 percent reduction in the Medicare payment rates for physician services scheduled for January 2010, and would instead provide for an increase in those payments based on the Medicare economic index. The measure is expected to be considered on the House floor starting next week.
Next Step, the Senate
Action now turns to the Senate, which has been in a bit of a holding pattern on its version of health care reform. Behind the scenes, Democratic leaders are combining the bills passed earlier this year by the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee (S. 1679) and the Senate Finance Committee (S. 1796).
While the committees have different jurisdictions, there are points of overlap that will require negotiation before being merged into one Senate bill. Also holding up the process is the wait for the “score” by the Congressional Budget Office (CBO). Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) requested a score from CBO in late October, but has not yet received those cost estimates.
The process for Senate passage will differ markedly from the House. Unlike the House’s tightly managed vote with virtually no ability to amend the bill on the floor, the Senate is expected to consider dozens of floor amendments. n4a is working to develop amendments to improve the bill’s prevention and wellness language, as well as incorporate S. 1257, Senator Cantwell’s Project 2020 bill. We will keep you posted as advocacy opportunities arise.
While timing predictions are very difficult to make, it seems that the Senate bill may come to the floor as early as next week, but it is just as likely that it will be early December before debate begins. The White House would like to keep up the momentum and have Congress pass a final bill before the end of the calendar year, but a more reasonable timeline would have a House-Senate compromise brokered over the holidays in order to send a bill to President Obama before his State of the Union address in late January.
à If you have questions or concerns, please contact n4a’s public policy and legislative affairs staff, Amy Gotwals and K.J. Hertz, at 202.872.0888 or agotwals@n4a.org, khertz@n4a.org.
House Passes Historic Health Care Bill
Late Saturday, the House of Representatives passed the first major health care reform bill (H.R. 3962, the Affordable Health Care for America Act) in 40 years, by a vote of 220-215. The razor-thin margin of only two votes beyond a majority of 218 was only possible after Democratic leaders negotiated with anti–abortion rights members of their party to amend the bill to restrict women from purchasing coverage for abortion care with their own funds in the health insurance exchanges and public plan that the legislation created.
With one lone exception, House Republicans opposed the health care bill and were joined by 39 Democrats who also voted against it. (To find out how your Representative voted on the bill, visit: THOMAS.) The rule setting the parameters for the debate allowed for just two amendments, a Republican alternative measure and the previously mentioned abortion-related amendment. As a result, Members of both parties were unable to offer floor amendments to the bill to add or change specific provisions.
n4a signed on to a number of coalition letters in support of specific provisions in the bill that would benefit older adults. The provisions of Project 2020 were not included in the House bill that went to the floor, and Rep. Bruce Braley (D-IA), the House sponsor of Project 2020, was unable to offer a planned floor amendment to add its provisions due to the “closed” rule process. Although n4a was glad to see that a robust CLASS Act insurance plan was included in the House bill.
We are hopeful that the House bill will be improved in the area of long-term services and supports during conference with the Senate as the process continues. We are interested in hearing what you think about the House bill as we continue to push for our priorities focusing on the core elements of the Project 2020 bill in health reform legislation. To share your feedback, visit n4a’s Advocacy Feedback web page.
Key Provisions of the House Bill
The bill would require most individuals to buy health insurance if they do not get it through their jobs, beginning in 2013. Families with incomes up to 400 percent of the federal poverty level could qualify for financial assistance.
Employers with annual payrolls over $500,000 would be required to provide coverage or contribute to a fund for such coverage. It would create an “exchange” in each state where individuals and certain small businesses could shop for insurance policies, and it would create a public insurance plan to compete with offerings from private companies.
Insurance companies could no longer refuse to cover customers with pre-existing medical conditions, impose annual or lifetime benefit limits or cancel a policy when someone files expensive claims.
The measure also would expand eligibility for Medicaid to individuals and families with incomes up to 150 percent of the poverty level.
Payments under the Medicare Advantage program would be reduced and the Medicare prescription drug program would be enhanced by phasing out the gap in coverage or “doughnut hole.”
The bill contains the provisions of the Community Living Assistance Supports and Services (CLASS) Act to establish a voluntary national long-term care insurance program to help adults who have or develop functional impairments to remain independent, employed, and stay a part of their community.
The bill would impose a tax surcharge of 5.4 percent on couples with gross incomes of more than $1 million and individuals with incomes of more than $500,000, and a 2.5 percent excise tax on the sale or lease of medical devices.
The Congressional Budget Office estimates that the gross cost of the bill would be almost $1.1 trillion through fiscal 2019, but the net cost, after taxes, fees and penalties are taken into account, would be $894 billion. CBO estimates the bill would actually reduce the deficit by $104 billion, as a result of tax provisions and spending reductions.
The House rule adopted for health care reform also sets up an upcoming debate on a separate measure to change the way Medicare reimburses physicians. The physicians’ pay bill would block a 21 percent reduction in the Medicare payment rates for physician services scheduled for January 2010, and would instead provide for an increase in those payments based on the Medicare economic index. The measure is expected to be considered on the House floor starting next week.
Next Step, the Senate
Action now turns to the Senate, which has been in a bit of a holding pattern on its version of health care reform. Behind the scenes, Democratic leaders are combining the bills passed earlier this year by the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee (S. 1679) and the Senate Finance Committee (S. 1796).
While the committees have different jurisdictions, there are points of overlap that will require negotiation before being merged into one Senate bill. Also holding up the process is the wait for the “score” by the Congressional Budget Office (CBO). Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) requested a score from CBO in late October, but has not yet received those cost estimates.
The process for Senate passage will differ markedly from the House. Unlike the House’s tightly managed vote with virtually no ability to amend the bill on the floor, the Senate is expected to consider dozens of floor amendments. n4a is working to develop amendments to improve the bill’s prevention and wellness language, as well as incorporate S. 1257, Senator Cantwell’s Project 2020 bill. We will keep you posted as advocacy opportunities arise.
While timing predictions are very difficult to make, it seems that the Senate bill may come to the floor as early as next week, but it is just as likely that it will be early December before debate begins. The White House would like to keep up the momentum and have Congress pass a final bill before the end of the calendar year, but a more reasonable timeline would have a House-Senate compromise brokered over the holidays in order to send a bill to President Obama before his State of the Union address in late January.
à If you have questions or concerns, please contact n4a’s public policy and legislative affairs staff, Amy Gotwals and K.J. Hertz, at 202.872.0888 or agotwals@n4a.org, khertz@n4a.org.
Nutrition Center Saves Lives
Yesterday I had the privelege of traveling to the Carnegie Nutrition Site and giving a budget cut Q&A presentation. I reassured the seniors that their site was not going to be cut anytime soon, but they are still very concerned.
The Greatest Generation (WWII Generation) keeps a stiff upper lip when it comes to hearing about budget cuts and the falling state revenues. They have been there before and have overcome. I will paraphrase the words of one participant, "This center means the world to us, but we will not end if it does. Life goes on."
Still others who have been participating in the senior center for only a few years. But when they come in the doors site the site manager is quick to tell them, "Welcome home."
For participants like Loyd and Stella Davis, the importance of the center is much more dramatic:
"This center has saved our lives." Stella Davis exclaimed. She and her husband were both forced to retire when Loyd's health failed him on the farm. Stella quit her job to become his caregiver. "We thought our lives were over and then we found this place. Loyd died three times in that hospital room, but he pulled through. And now we have a wonderful place to call home. This center saved both of our lives."
The Greatest Generation (WWII Generation) keeps a stiff upper lip when it comes to hearing about budget cuts and the falling state revenues. They have been there before and have overcome. I will paraphrase the words of one participant, "This center means the world to us, but we will not end if it does. Life goes on."
Still others who have been participating in the senior center for only a few years. But when they come in the doors site the site manager is quick to tell them, "Welcome home."
For participants like Loyd and Stella Davis, the importance of the center is much more dramatic:
"This center has saved our lives." Stella Davis exclaimed. She and her husband were both forced to retire when Loyd's health failed him on the farm. Stella quit her job to become his caregiver. "We thought our lives were over and then we found this place. Loyd died three times in that hospital room, but he pulled through. And now we have a wonderful place to call home. This center saved both of our lives."
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Dibble News November 4 2009
November 2009 Edition
Board of Directors
Eddie Cantrell, Pres. Dale McAskill, V.P.
Arthur Evett Mary Evett
Garland Clark Shirley Rush
Greetings to the Seniors of the Dibble Community!!!
Friday was packed for steak and baked potatoes, as Bill Harmon and Robert Noisy provided music and fun. Lots of stuff in the silent auction and door prizes. Come take a look at the two nearly new lawnmowers!! You need one!!
Remember, our next field trip is Thursday, Nov. 12, as we go have supper and see the Plummer Family Band in Chickasha. Get your name on the list so we can know how many tickets to buy!! Deadline is Friday, Nov. 5th.
During the month of October, we had 70 volunteers donating 2,122 hours. Our food pantry saw 98 families on Friday morning, in need of assistance. Due to increased demand, Regional Food Bank in OKC has changed our food deliveries from 4 to 2 per month, as more people across the state are in need. The times, they are a changin’!! Remember Tuesday, Nov. 19th is Payback Time at Regional Food Bank in OKC. The van will leave the center at 12:30, after lunch. We need young muscles!! We will hopefully be done in time for “Happy Hour” at Sonic on the way back.
Big thanks to Professional Home Care for blood pressure and sugar test on Friday! Our sick list is getting better. Lenora Walkup is recovering from busted ribs and breathing problems. Get well, Lenora!! We are saving the Windex bottle for you!! Also, Leon Calhoun is having issues again. Get well, Leon!! Jerry Vance is OK after surgery on his hand. No new plastic parts, this time! Robert Noisy is better, along with Louise Montgomery. Get well, everyone!!
Eureka!! Lots going on around the country as it appears California is about to legalize marijuana!! I guess the old Baby Boomer hippies are free at last! Their story is that it is for medical use and it really isn’t all that bad if you only use it a little bit. Maybe we should legalize child abuse or nursing home abuse, if you only do it a little bit!!
Sara Palin’s ex-son-in-law to be says he is going to pose in Playgirl Magazine. People will do anything for money!! I wouldn’t pose naked because I wouldn’t want to show the boy up, but for $100, I’ll model my Speedo bathing suit on my John Deere Lawnmower and send you a signed 8X10!!
That being said, I’m regrettably reporting that tragedy has struck me personally. Last month, I had to get some new pants, as mine seem to have shrunk. I’m sad to report that it appears I’m now ½ again around as I am long. Yep, my Levi’s are now size 44 X 30. I did find solace in the fact that my new pants were made in Mexico. Everybody knows those folks are on some metric deal and that’s not the same as American numbers. There again, it proves that if we had card check and repealed NAFTA, we would have American made Levi’s and I would surely be back to my 32 X 30 Levi’s!! I asked our esteemed Vice President, Dale McAskill, if he was with me on this and he said….NO! He said if I would quit eating like a hog, I wouldn’t get fat! Now, there’s a rude individual!! Dale is the only person I have ever known who uses an electric tooth brush to clean his nose!! He ain’t right!!
All for now………………….
Menu
Monday
Tuesday Country Breakfast
Wednesday
Thursday Cook’s Choice
Friday
##
Written by Eddie Cantrell
Dibble Senior Citizens
12219 Fireman’s Road
Dibble, OK 73031
Dates to Remember:
November 11th Veteran’s Day
November 26th Thanksgiving
Board of Directors
Eddie Cantrell, Pres. Dale McAskill, V.P.
Arthur Evett Mary Evett
Garland Clark Shirley Rush
Greetings to the Seniors of the Dibble Community!!!
Friday was packed for steak and baked potatoes, as Bill Harmon and Robert Noisy provided music and fun. Lots of stuff in the silent auction and door prizes. Come take a look at the two nearly new lawnmowers!! You need one!!
Remember, our next field trip is Thursday, Nov. 12, as we go have supper and see the Plummer Family Band in Chickasha. Get your name on the list so we can know how many tickets to buy!! Deadline is Friday, Nov. 5th.
During the month of October, we had 70 volunteers donating 2,122 hours. Our food pantry saw 98 families on Friday morning, in need of assistance. Due to increased demand, Regional Food Bank in OKC has changed our food deliveries from 4 to 2 per month, as more people across the state are in need. The times, they are a changin’!! Remember Tuesday, Nov. 19th is Payback Time at Regional Food Bank in OKC. The van will leave the center at 12:30, after lunch. We need young muscles!! We will hopefully be done in time for “Happy Hour” at Sonic on the way back.
Big thanks to Professional Home Care for blood pressure and sugar test on Friday! Our sick list is getting better. Lenora Walkup is recovering from busted ribs and breathing problems. Get well, Lenora!! We are saving the Windex bottle for you!! Also, Leon Calhoun is having issues again. Get well, Leon!! Jerry Vance is OK after surgery on his hand. No new plastic parts, this time! Robert Noisy is better, along with Louise Montgomery. Get well, everyone!!
Eureka!! Lots going on around the country as it appears California is about to legalize marijuana!! I guess the old Baby Boomer hippies are free at last! Their story is that it is for medical use and it really isn’t all that bad if you only use it a little bit. Maybe we should legalize child abuse or nursing home abuse, if you only do it a little bit!!
Sara Palin’s ex-son-in-law to be says he is going to pose in Playgirl Magazine. People will do anything for money!! I wouldn’t pose naked because I wouldn’t want to show the boy up, but for $100, I’ll model my Speedo bathing suit on my John Deere Lawnmower and send you a signed 8X10!!
That being said, I’m regrettably reporting that tragedy has struck me personally. Last month, I had to get some new pants, as mine seem to have shrunk. I’m sad to report that it appears I’m now ½ again around as I am long. Yep, my Levi’s are now size 44 X 30. I did find solace in the fact that my new pants were made in Mexico. Everybody knows those folks are on some metric deal and that’s not the same as American numbers. There again, it proves that if we had card check and repealed NAFTA, we would have American made Levi’s and I would surely be back to my 32 X 30 Levi’s!! I asked our esteemed Vice President, Dale McAskill, if he was with me on this and he said….NO! He said if I would quit eating like a hog, I wouldn’t get fat! Now, there’s a rude individual!! Dale is the only person I have ever known who uses an electric tooth brush to clean his nose!! He ain’t right!!
All for now………………….
Menu
Monday
Tuesday Country Breakfast
Wednesday
Thursday Cook’s Choice
Friday
##
Written by Eddie Cantrell
Dibble Senior Citizens
12219 Fireman’s Road
Dibble, OK 73031
Dates to Remember:
November 11th Veteran’s Day
November 26th Thanksgiving
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Duncan North nutrition site budget cut Q&A
Q: How long will this (the budget cuts) last?
A: The current cut was effective November 1 2009 and will last through October 31 2010. ASCOG is working on a plan to return to pre-cut service levels by July 1, 2010. However, DHS has only cut 3% and the Governor has announced that all state agencies will have to cut 5% so DHS will have to cut an addition 2% this fiscal year.
Q: Hasn’t the state recovered from the recession?
A: That is what some economists might be saying. The price of natural gas has gone back up to a more manageable level. But the unemployment is still too high resulting in sales tax and income tax declines in revenue. The state is more than 19% behind funding levels compared to last year. We are continuing to decline in revenues compared to last year.
Q: If the Federal Healthcare Reform passes taxes will go up.
A: Yes they will, but it will vary based on your current income. It is difficult to comment on a bill that changes every day.
Q: I checked into assistance on prescriptions and I could not get assistance if I have savings or property – I do not qualify.
A: Some programs are income and resource based. Title III nutrition programs are not.
Q: Who qualifies for the nutrition program?
A: People aged 60 and older, their spouses, and in special cases disabled people may be eligible. There is no income or resource qualification.
Q: How does the Natural Gas production tax work?
A: Gas...
The Gross Production Tax rate on gas is as follows:
- If the average price of Oklahoma gas equals or exceeds Two Dollars and Ten Cents ($2.10) per mcf, the tax shall be seven percent (7%).
- If the average price of Oklahoma gas is less than Two Dollars and Ten Cents ($2.10) but is equal to or exceeds One Dollar and Seventy Five Cents ($1.75) per mcf, then the tax shall be four percent (4%).
- If the average price of Oklahoma gas is less than One Dollar and Seventy-Five Cents ($1.75) per mcf, then the tax shall be one percent (1%).
- http://www.tax.ok.gov/gp2.html
Q: Why did the senior programs get cut at 25.9% while other cuts were much lower?
A: DHS determined that since the senior programs have been “overmatched” with state dollars and they could be cut without losing any federal dollars then they would be cut accordingly. Other programs could not be cut without losing federal dollars. The state still has an overmatch of $1.5 million.
Q: Who made the decision to cut senior programs?
A: DHS Director Howard Hendrick and the DHS commissioners
Monday, November 2, 2009
Letters from Seniors in Purcell area in response to budget cuts
To whom it may concern
Why did you cut senior citizens meal program by 25% ½ of total cut. You could have cut out your mileage and pay your own way to work like have done as long as I worked and I didn’t make any part of the amount as you make.
My wife is in a nursing home and I still have to pay all our utility bills and taxes besides groceries and health insurance.
When election time comes Beware you will be part of the unemployed
John Bourquin
To whom this concerns,
Our senior citizens of Purcell and surrounding communities need our nutrition program. We understand there will be cuts. This would be bad for our seniors because otherwise they would not get a decent meal 5 days a week. I believe there is another way to cut somewhere else besides this program.
We have a good meal each day and wonderful employees who go beyond their duty to make everyone feel welcome and cared about.
Thank you
Douglas and Laura Williams
10-6-09
Wayne, OK 73095
To whom it may concern:
I attend Purcell Senior Citizen Center for lunch. I need this as I am single and do not cook! Please keep us open & at the same rate Please full fund us!
Thanks
Joe Bob Jamro
Retired Teacher
Wanette Schools 1997
Please do not financially cut our senior program. This is a good place for us to eat hot meals and enjoy our friendly get togethers
Thank you
Mildred L Westbrook
10/6/2009
I enjoy the Center because of the Friendly people I meet and the good meals & really enjoy playing games
Pearlie Winthers
10/6/09
I am very unhappy to hear you are cutting our budget. Seem like you could fine someone else to pick on we love our center we old folk enjoy come here every morning
Joyce Sain
Lisa Billy
Legislator
We all enjoy the games and meals at the Purcell Senior Center
Shirley Stark
The center is very important to the people not just for the food but also for getting together for a lot of the people because this is all they might see of people. Also for some this probably the main meal they get.
Mary T Loentor
I enjoy the center because of the friendly people and our very good leader
Bea
To whom it concerns
The senior citizen centers are very Important to our community. If we don’t take care of them who have been here for us now we need to be there for them
Brenda
Dear Sirs,
This Purcell senior center is a very interesting place for me. I live alone & this gives me friends & something to do during the day
Helen Blackstone
To the Legislature
It is very important to the Senior Citizens of Okla. Do not have to suffer through a budget cut. The center are the only place some seniors get a meal for the day. They have put on the back burner long enough. Our children, disabled children & Senior Citizens, should be our first priority
Thank you
Nila & Jimmy Ross
Dear Sir,
I am so thankful for our Purcell senior citizen center, I don’t know what I would do without it. It is such a blessing to me and everyone here. The food the staff that prepares the food are wonderful. They do such a great job not only myself but everyone here needs this place a lot of them would go hungry and end up in nursing homes and they need to be with people we all enjoy each other please keep us coming here each day.
Sincerely Joyce Clinton
Dear Senator
My name is Larry West, and I am righting in hope you will keep our senior citizens centers open. My man is 87 years old. These center help in hard times. This is the only good meal for some seniors for the day. They also help get people out and socialize and meet friends. We owe a lot to our senior citizens and not cut there help in hard times
Larry Lusest
Ref: Senior Citizens
Please keep the senior Program open. Getting together each day means so much to each of us-not only the meal but being together with others of your age means so much and will contribute to our well being. Thanks Kathryn L. Ratliff
To Whom it may Concern
The senior citizen center in Purcell is a very important place for us to meet for various activities and enjoy a great meal. The center would surely be missed for a large number of people.
Please consider leaving this center open we all need it.
Thank you Sincerely
Mr. & Mrs. Wayne Thompson 10-6-09
To Whom it may Concern:
Our senior Center here in Purcell is very vital to our community. I have been working(volunteer) here for over a year delivering frozen meals, lunches Etc.
The cooks & Nutrition personal work very hard for us and we need all the help we can get to keep our center going. All the people who we deliver to are very appreciative of our services and believe me, they need their meals. Our seniors should not and do not deserve being cut from any of our benefits.
Hester L. Hughes
I’ve heard about the cut in the nutrition program. It seems like Congress has forgotten about the aging, when they take $ 5,000 raises for themselves
Jacob Cirer Jr
Our aging seniors should not suffer from the state taking our nutrition programs away. Our Purcell Center is vital to our older seniors and we deliver meals to the home bound. Who would suffer greatly
Rudy Crawford
To Whom it may concern:
Please do not cut out the senior meals. Many of us depend on them for our only nutritious meal of the day. Thank you Anita Ballard
I am thrilled to express my thoughts about the senior citizens center and the program for the many activities provided. Most of the time when I get here there are about three tables of card games or dominoes and puzzles in full swing. I deliver lunches to the shut in’s and on what a joy to see and hear the help it is to them.
Mickey
Why did you cut senior citizens meal program by 25% ½ of total cut. You could have cut out your mileage and pay your own way to work like have done as long as I worked and I didn’t make any part of the amount as you make.
My wife is in a nursing home and I still have to pay all our utility bills and taxes besides groceries and health insurance.
When election time comes Beware you will be part of the unemployed
John Bourquin
To whom this concerns,
Our senior citizens of Purcell and surrounding communities need our nutrition program. We understand there will be cuts. This would be bad for our seniors because otherwise they would not get a decent meal 5 days a week. I believe there is another way to cut somewhere else besides this program.
We have a good meal each day and wonderful employees who go beyond their duty to make everyone feel welcome and cared about.
Thank you
Douglas and Laura Williams
10-6-09
Wayne, OK 73095
To whom it may concern:
I attend Purcell Senior Citizen Center for lunch. I need this as I am single and do not cook! Please keep us open & at the same rate Please full fund us!
Thanks
Joe Bob Jamro
Retired Teacher
Wanette Schools 1997
Please do not financially cut our senior program. This is a good place for us to eat hot meals and enjoy our friendly get togethers
Thank you
Mildred L Westbrook
10/6/2009
I enjoy the Center because of the Friendly people I meet and the good meals & really enjoy playing games
Pearlie Winthers
10/6/09
I am very unhappy to hear you are cutting our budget. Seem like you could fine someone else to pick on we love our center we old folk enjoy come here every morning
Joyce Sain
Lisa Billy
Legislator
We all enjoy the games and meals at the Purcell Senior Center
Shirley Stark
The center is very important to the people not just for the food but also for getting together for a lot of the people because this is all they might see of people. Also for some this probably the main meal they get.
Mary T Loentor
I enjoy the center because of the friendly people and our very good leader
Bea
To whom it concerns
The senior citizen centers are very Important to our community. If we don’t take care of them who have been here for us now we need to be there for them
Brenda
Dear Sirs,
This Purcell senior center is a very interesting place for me. I live alone & this gives me friends & something to do during the day
Helen Blackstone
To the Legislature
It is very important to the Senior Citizens of Okla. Do not have to suffer through a budget cut. The center are the only place some seniors get a meal for the day. They have put on the back burner long enough. Our children, disabled children & Senior Citizens, should be our first priority
Thank you
Nila & Jimmy Ross
Dear Sir,
I am so thankful for our Purcell senior citizen center, I don’t know what I would do without it. It is such a blessing to me and everyone here. The food the staff that prepares the food are wonderful. They do such a great job not only myself but everyone here needs this place a lot of them would go hungry and end up in nursing homes and they need to be with people we all enjoy each other please keep us coming here each day.
Sincerely Joyce Clinton
Dear Senator
My name is Larry West, and I am righting in hope you will keep our senior citizens centers open. My man is 87 years old. These center help in hard times. This is the only good meal for some seniors for the day. They also help get people out and socialize and meet friends. We owe a lot to our senior citizens and not cut there help in hard times
Larry Lusest
Ref: Senior Citizens
Please keep the senior Program open. Getting together each day means so much to each of us-not only the meal but being together with others of your age means so much and will contribute to our well being. Thanks Kathryn L. Ratliff
To Whom it may Concern
The senior citizen center in Purcell is a very important place for us to meet for various activities and enjoy a great meal. The center would surely be missed for a large number of people.
Please consider leaving this center open we all need it.
Thank you Sincerely
Mr. & Mrs. Wayne Thompson 10-6-09
To Whom it may Concern:
Our senior Center here in Purcell is very vital to our community. I have been working(volunteer) here for over a year delivering frozen meals, lunches Etc.
The cooks & Nutrition personal work very hard for us and we need all the help we can get to keep our center going. All the people who we deliver to are very appreciative of our services and believe me, they need their meals. Our seniors should not and do not deserve being cut from any of our benefits.
Hester L. Hughes
I’ve heard about the cut in the nutrition program. It seems like Congress has forgotten about the aging, when they take $ 5,000 raises for themselves
Jacob Cirer Jr
Our aging seniors should not suffer from the state taking our nutrition programs away. Our Purcell Center is vital to our older seniors and we deliver meals to the home bound. Who would suffer greatly
Rudy Crawford
To Whom it may concern:
Please do not cut out the senior meals. Many of us depend on them for our only nutritious meal of the day. Thank you Anita Ballard
I am thrilled to express my thoughts about the senior citizens center and the program for the many activities provided. Most of the time when I get here there are about three tables of card games or dominoes and puzzles in full swing. I deliver lunches to the shut in’s and on what a joy to see and hear the help it is to them.
Mickey
Statewide H1N1 Vaccination Blitz Planned
For Release: November 2, 2009
Contact: Pamela Williams
Office of Communications
405/271-5601
Statewide H1N1 Vaccination Blitz Planned
State Health officials are planning a statewide H1N1 influenza vaccination effort Saturday November 7th for Oklahomans who fall into one of the priority groups targeted to receive this vaccine.
“We recognize that many Oklahomans are trying to obtain the H1N1 vaccine to protect their children or themselves from this new strain of flu. Although the amount of vaccine that our state has received so far is not enough to meet the demand, our goal is to deliver as many vaccinations as possible November 7th,” said State Epidemiologist Dr. Kristy Bradley. “The H1N1flu virus continues to strike children and pregnant women particularly hard. We encourage people included in the priority groups to continue to seek a vaccination.”
Priority groups for the H1N1 vaccine now include all children ages six months to 18 years, pregnant women, custodial parents of infants less than six months of age, front-line health care workers who have direct patient contact with acutely ill persons, and adults 19 – 64 years of age with chronic disease.
Clinics will be held at multiple locations statewide Saturday, November 7, 2009 for the vaccine priority groups. The time and location of these clinics will be announced later in the week. People seeking vaccinations will be screened to ensure that they meet the priority group definition for H1N1 vaccine.
An additional 93,100 doses of the novel H1N1 influenza vaccine is arriving in the state. The doses include both nasal spray and injectable vaccines. The Oklahoma State Department of Health is projected to receive H1N1 vaccine in weekly shipments through early January 2010.
In addition to providing vaccine through regularly scheduled clinics, county health departments will begin to distribute vaccine to certain private providers with an emphasis on practices that serve children.
For more information about the availability of H1N1 influenza vaccine in your area, call your local county health department or visit www.health.ok.gov, or call the Oklahoma State Department of Health toll-free H1N1 hotline at: 1-866-278-7134. Phones are answered Monday through Friday from 8 am to 5 pm.
###
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Nutrition sites come up with plans to serve seniors
Subject: Lawton News Article on Senior Centers Sunday November 1
Nutrition sites come up with plans to serve seniorsBY STEVE METZER | ||
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