Earlier in the year it was discussed about the group having an outing at one of the Drillers’ ball games.   Our family frequents the games and on one occasion I decided to visit with someone associated with the franchise about their group events.   I was  hoping they would recognize us as the non-profit group that we are and would cut us a really good deal. 

With schedule in hand and an optimistic attitude I approached the window of the business administration office for the Drillers.    I communicated my ideas and hopes to the friendly attendant.  My desire was to schedule our outing for one of the Saturday games if possible thinking our turnout would be more positive for a weekend event. 

After reviewing the cost of the event for a weekend I became somewhat dejected and inquired more about what programs that they might have for non-profit organizations like ours.   She explained that they did have some limited opportunities for discounted tickets and meal coupons for some Monday games, but it was more of a 1st come 1st serve basis. 

While the Monday night option certainly provided for a more economical approach for our outing I was most interested in the Saturday schedule.  I still felt like it would provide for the best opportunity for our membership. 

Upon receiving  the final word on the cost of the Saturday night option, with a dejected but appreciative response.  I explained that I would have to think about it and would be trying to decide something in the next week or so. 

As I turned to walk away with my head looking down at the ground from being disappointed in what I figured was to costly an event for us to sponsor a voice from above inquired.   “I hope you don’t mind, but my wife and I might be interested in underwriting some of the cost of your event”.  The gentleman explained that he had overheard the conversation I was having with the attendant and obviously observed my frustration as I learned what the cost of the event would be.   He went on to say that is something that he and his wife are able to do from time to time and would we be interested in them assisting in that way. 

WOW!  Was that a confirmation for me.  He took information about our organization and informed me that he would discuss this opportunity with his wife and would be getting back with me. 

Sure enough a couple of days go by and I receive a phone call from the gentleman’s wife (Dana) wanting to help us financially for this event.   Not only did they provide the seed money for us to move forward in scheduling the outing, but Dana did a lot of the leg work in coordinating with the Drillers on our behalf. 

For sure these folks are in my opinion Angels In The Outfield and may they continue to have good fortune in their lives in every way.    Thanks Robert and Dana Hutton for confirming things in my life that sometimes I’m questioned with on if what I’m doing is really worth while.
 

OUR NEXT MEETING
August 16th at 7:00PM at the Special Olympics Building
Our meeting will feature Shelly Ledbetter of Miss Shelly’s Dance Studio.

June Recap
 We had a full house for our June meeting.  Everyone came to hear Jeff Arnett talk about orthotics for children and adults with Down syndrome.  A big thank you to Jeff for showing us a variety of options and for spending his evening with us. 
July Recap
 DSAT brings luck to Tulsa Drillers!! On July 14th, we had a night out at Drillers Stadium with hamburgers, hot dogs, baseball and good friends.  We had over 175 people attend.  We all cheered the Drillers to a 4-3 victory over Wichita.  It was great to get out in the community and show everyone what a wonderful group we have.

 The seed money for this event was provided by Robert & Dana Hutton.  Some of us were lucky enough to thank them in person at the game for their generous gift.  All of us are grateful for their contribution to DSAT.

 We would also like to thank Tracey Wilson , who went above and beyond his presidential duties to set up the entire event.  In addition, Tracey’s wife , Shelley fielded many phone calls and distributed the tickets.  Thanks Tracey and Shelley!

2002 Calendar Update
 The calendar is at the printer and we need each individual in the calendar to sign a release before the calendars come out in September.  Please feel free to contact any committee member if you have not yet signed off.  The calendar committee consists of Lynette Lambert, Jenn Martin, Teressa McHenry, Kristen Pope, Rebecca Reifsteck and Kim Wofford.  We will let you know when we will be having our calendar unveiling as we receive more information from the printer.  Thank you to all members who worked so diligently on getting calendar sponsors.  We could not have done it without your help.
 

Member Directory
One of our goals for 2001-2002 is to have a directory of all of our members.  Lynn Lughibihl (mother of Sam) has offered to take on this project for us.  We will be compiling a questionnaire for everyone to fill out towards the first of next year so we may include as much helpful information as we possibly can. As a starting point, we will be using our current mailing list.  This directory will be for members use only and we will ask that members do not use them for any purpose not related to DSAT. Please call Kim Wofford at  622-6906 by August 31st if you do not wish to be included.
 

Good News
 The National Down Syndrome Congress has asked for donations from each parent group for a silent auction to be held at their convention.  They hope to raise money to allow more young adults with DS to attend the conferences in future years.  Richard Hight (father to Averie) has donated two prints ( the original hangs at the OKC memorial to the bombing) as our donation.  The Congress is excited about our donation.  Thank you Richard for this extra special gift. 

 In August 2000, Kim Wofford, accompanied by her son, Nathan , had the opportunity to speak to the Southside Tulsa Sertoma Club.  She gave them information about Down syndrome and also talked about her involvement with DSAT.  This June they invited her back to accept a check for $1000 to pay for over 50 new parent packets.  The packets will have a placard inside the front cover that lists the Sertoma Club.  Thank you Southside Sertoma for helping us to reach even more new families with our beautiful new parent packets. 

FYI
Angie Shaull (mother to Franklin) has a brand new mickey button (for a g-tube) that she would like to donate to a family who would be able to use it.  If you are interested, please call her at (918)825-3104 for details.

We Need Your Help!

We would love to have your stories for the newsletter; a cute story, school or sport successes, dates of interesting meetings, or conferences. If you find it entertaining or interesting, someone else will too. So call Kim Wofford at 622-6906 or email her at:  woffordnate@webzone.net and help us personalize your newsletter.

Come and be a part of this exciting time at DSAT!

Newsletter Deadlines
Share with us about your summer fun or funny summer vacation story. Do you have special plans for school this fall? Have your announcements, stories and information to Kim Wofford by September 13th for the October, 2001 newsletter. It is our hope to provide the most current information.
 

Thank You!

Thank you to the following contributors. We 
couldn’t do it without you:

Dues Paid
John & Laura Smith
Raymond & Jacci Brown

Contributions In Memory Of
Marilyn LaPointe
Ron Graham
Jean & Patty Leger & family
Alfred & Jayne Smith

Caregivers for
June meeting
Hannah Edgmon
Annah Buckingham
Jesse Luper

Thank You Again!
Incor, Inc
The Huttons
Southside Tulsa Sertoma Club
Richard Hight

Upcoming Events! 

August 16th - Miss Shelly of “Miss Shelly’s Dance Studio”
September 20th - Jan Pride of Happy Hands  (sign language)
October Fall Festival and Celebration Of Down Syndrome Awareness Month
November 15th - “Handwriting Without Tears”
December 8th - Christmas Party

For The Most Up To Date Information Visit:  http://www.dsat.org
 

Bad Weather Policy
DSAT has now established a policy regarding inclement weather.  If there is any question about whether or not we will have a meeting or other event, there are two options available.  Our website, www.DSAT.org, will be updated immediately to show a cancellation and our information line 748-5656 will have a brief message as well.
 

FOR SALE
DSAT now has many items for sale.  Items will be available at all meetings and parties or by contacting any officer. The items available are:
White polo shirts with DSAT logo $20
White canvas hats with DSAT logo $10
“Far Different Places”  (inspirational music)  CD $10  Tape $6
Songbook $6
Video tape of all calendar  pictures set to music  $10

DSAT CALENDARS! $12
 
 

DISCLAIMER:  The Down Syndrome Association Of Tulsa does not promote, recommend or endorse any service, professional or organization.  Decisions regarding the use of any service, professional or organization are the sole responsibility of the family or guardian.
 

Co-Vice Presidents:
Daughn & Karen Baker 343-2988
Kim Wofford     (918)  622-6906 

Secretary:
Kelly Johnston

Treasurer:
Kim Wofford (918) 622-6906              Kim's E-mail

Newsletter: 
Kendra Pennington    (918) 889-2954   Kendra's E-mail
Kim Wofford

Calendar Coordinator
Lynette Lambert
(918) 682-6634 

Scholoarship/Library Committee
Marilyn Lapointe  (918) 371-2279
Jill King 

Party Planner
Kimberly Myers   (918) 266-3214 

New Parent Packets
Karen and Daughn Baker (918) 343-2988

Development Coordinator 
Erin Beach 

Web Master
 E-mail Tracey Wilson