Welcome to Transition House, Inc.

Your Support Helps Persons Recovering from Mental Illness Transition to a Better Life!  Thank You!

For the most up to date information on Transition House, Inc., click on Newsletter OnLine.

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Welcome to

Newsletter On-Line

Transitions is Transition House, Inc.'s newsletter.  In an effort to keep people informed of agency happenings while keeping costs low, we've decided to put a newsletter on-line.  This is a work in progress, so please check back from time to time to see updates on Transitions.

News:

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JBJ'10 set for June 12, 2010

For the most up to date info on JBJ - visit http://www.myspace.com/transitionhousejunebugjam.  You can also find Transition House, Inc./June Bug Jam on Facebook.
 
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JBJ was a Huge Success

Since we've discovered MySpace, we've been using that as our JBJ information site, so for the most up to date information on past and future June Bug Jam's, please visit http://www.myspace.com/transitionhousejunebugjam
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Staff Changes

Staff change is uncommon at TH, but it does happen.  In July 2008, we bid farewell to Elizabeth Kuhlman.  Jessica Williams, who had been our practicum student from OU's School of Social Work is our new Recovery Coordinator.
That change was followed at the end of October with Jeanene Davidson's retirement.  Jeanene had been a huge part of our agency's success for over 20 years and though we miss her, we wish her well in her retirement.
Our newest staff member is Robbie Tatom, BSW.  Robbie joined our staff as a Recovery Coordinator in November 2008.
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JBJ Talent Search has Begun

Confirmed Headliner for JBJ'08 is Robin Grant, with All Stars Jacob Lynn and Tara Henry.  Along with these Stars, we are looking for other talented performers to join this year's line up.  Two showcases are being offered this year - Rising Star Showcase beginning at 5:30 pm and All Star Showcase begins at 7:30 pm - Sooner Theatre, Norman, OK - June 14, 2008.  For more information on the Audition process and Audition forms, go to Audition form'08.
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JBJ T-shirt is Back

After a couple of years of not having a JBJ t-shirt, we developed a design for this year's logo that many requested be turned into a t-shirt.  So, based on the request of many - below is the design that will go on the JBJ'08 t-shirt.  The shirt will be black with this logo:

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To get a JBJ'08 t-shirt, call Bonnie Dunn at 405-360-7926 or e-mail transitionhouse@coxinet.net.
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Welcome New Board members

Transition House, Inc., has been fortunate to have several new community volunteers join our Board of Directors.  New members include Christina Adcox, Susan Gregory, Nadine Nunez, LSW, and Tom Cooper.  We also welcome Jennifer Walters who has joined our Advisory Council.  Thanks to these and all of our Board volunteers for your support of Transition House, Inc. 
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In Memory of Larry Lee & Marge Farwell

Most recently we received the news that a member of our Advisory Council, Larry Lee, passed away.  Larry and his wife June have been involved in Transition House, Inc., for years.  June was actually one of the people who helped develop the agency.  We are sad to hear about Larry's passing, but we celebrate his life and all that he did to help so many people!
I also wish to acknowledge the passing of another former Board member - Marge Farwell.  Marge passed away a couple of years ago, but during this time of reflection, I realize that I was remise in not recognizing the work of Marge and her devotion and dedication to our agency as a member of our Board and volunteer.  
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June Bug Jam 2008

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Work has begun on June Bug Jam 2008.  Click on June Bug Jam 2008 for the most up to date information on this year's show.
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DTR Meeting at the Drop-In Center

After a short break from the meetings, the DTR meetings at the Transition House, Inc., Drop-In Center have resumed.  Meetings are held on Wednesday evening at 5:30 pm at 700 Asp, Ste. 4.
For more information, go to DTR Meetings.
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Recovery - You Think Only "Those People" Need it?

Below is an excerpt from an article I wrote about Recovery.  
So you think it’s only those poor unfortunates who have an “official” diagnosis of mental illness are the ones who need to be concerned about their mental well being?  During these times when phrases like “24/7” and “Multi-tasking” are a common part of our everyday language, when we can’t seem to go anyplace without seeing people glued to their cell phone and/or computer, when our relationships are now best established on MySpace rather than in person - do you think we live in a society that encourages mental wellness – let alone recovery?  We want to believe the concepts of recovery are for addicts only, yet I think as a society we could all benefit from a good dose of recovery.
To read the full article, click on Recovery
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Former JBJ Star -Tara Henry- Releases her CD

 Tara_Head_Shot_2.JPG (39500 bytes) Former JBJ Star - Tara Henry - is proud to announce the release of her first CD.  
Tara's link to CD Baby is http://cdbaby.com/cd/tarahenry. You can also go to http://www.digstation.com and http://www.iTunes.com to download songs.  If you would like to contact Tara directly, e-mail at trhenry@cox.net to order a CD directly from her.
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Bridget Pekah - new Board President

We welcome Bridget Pekah's return to our Board of Directors and her return to her former position as President of our Board of Directors.
Other Board changes include Sophia Morren's completion of her six year term on the Board.  Sophia has served in many capacities on the Board - most recently as Board President.  A huge thanks to Sophia for her many gifts to our agency.  Sophia will remain connected with our agency as an Advisory Council member.
Leah Wall also moved from the Board to Advisory Council.  Leah also served as Board President and we are very grateful to her for her many contributions to Transition House, Inc.
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Welcome Jessica - Social Work Student

Picture 037.jpg (476752 bytes) Jessica Bartee is our FY'08 OU School of Social Work practicum student for the Fall 2007 and Spring 2008 semesters.  Jessica has been a wonderful addition to our team and we are very glad she selected Transition House, Inc., as her practicum site!
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Day of Caring 2007 - our volunteers did a Great Job!

Copy of Picture 0311.jpg (386157 bytes) Day of Caring volunteers put new flooring in our Drop-In Center.  For details click on Day of Caring '07
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DTR Meetings are in Transition

The DTR meetings that were being held in the Drop-In Center are undergoing a transition.  Meeting frequency, etc., is being examined.  Once there is a new schedule, the website will be updated with the information.  For more information, call 360-7926. 
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June Bug Jam '07 - Huge Success!

Thanks to the many wonderful people who made JBJ '07 our most successful fund raiser!  We still have $700  pending from pledges, but to date we have received $11,697 - net earning of $10,197.  The list of who needs to be thanked is too long, but please know that we appreciate all who gave so much of themselves to make this an incredible show - and more importantly a very successful fund raiser that allows our agency to continue the work we do with our clients.  
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2007 Agency Retreat was a Splash!

Rather than talking about advancing the agency's Serenity Project, the decision was made to make this year's agency wide retreat into an action based activity.  Board members, staff, volunteers, and clients worked side by side to paint the Drop-In Center.  Thanks to all who worked so hard on this project - and special thanks to John Koons for the pizza treat after the work was done!
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June Bug Jam '07 

JBJ 07 logo - updated April 302.jpg (204290 bytes)  
 
Mark your calendars for... 
June Bug Jam '07
Saturday, June 9, 2007
 
 Returning as our Headliner: 
Maci Wainwright
 
with All Stars:  
Jacob Lynn & Dana Pyle
 
  New to this year's show:  
Opening Act 
Refuje
For more, click on June Bug Jam 2007.
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Norman Mental Health Celebration

Local Administrators Take a Dunk for Mental Wellness!

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Pam Sanford ~ Bonnie Dunn ~ Dr. Julia Irwin

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Sunday, May 6, 2007 was the 2nd Annual Mental Health Celebration in Norman.  This was a collaborative effort of many mental health providers in our community.  Entertainment was provided by JBJ Stars - Dana Pyle, Jacob Lynn and Cori Cagley.  And Special Entertainment was provided by administrators from Thunderbird Clubhouse, Transition House, Inc., and Sundance Counseling Services.  Thanks to Everyone who participated in this important event for our community!

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Hideaway Collage Contest Honorable Mention - 2nd year

Transition House 2007 Mural 1.jpg (123653 bytes) For the 2nd year in a row, clients received Honorable Mention in the Hideaway Pizza Collage Contest.  Clients worked together to produce their  wonderful collage in this statewide event.  For more information, click on www.hideawaypizza.com/
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Congratulations to TL Grad Rob!

Picture 044.jpg (1059451 bytes)100_2334.jpg (337347 bytes) Rob graduated from our Transitional Living Program in February 2007.  He has been our artist in residence and a wonderful member of our agency.  Best Wishes Rob - we're very proud of you!

 

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Thanks to NUUF Sponsored Fund Raiser!

Special Thanks to Norman's Unitarian Universalist Fellowship for doing a coffee house fund raiser for our agency.  In total, they raised $547.37.  Thank you to all involved and to our Board members, volunteers and Board members who supported the event.
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Welcome OU Students: 

Tamra.jpg (53075 bytes) Tamra Tucker Volunteer 
100_23511.jpg (308877 bytes) Human Relations Intern Melanie Johnston

Happy 2007
Farewell to 2006

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Norman Holiday Parade Winners

Once again, clients were recognized for another outstanding float in the Norman Holiday Parade.   Below are some photos from the event...

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Leah Wall Pollan new Board President

Conflicts with her work schedule caused Bridget Pekah to step down as Board President, so Leah Wall Pollan has moved into the role as President of the Transition House, Inc., Board of Directors.   Leah is very excited about her new role with our agency and welcome her energy, ideas, and leadership!
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The great TH Computer Crash!

Early in November 2006, the main computer at our office crashed.  The good news - the majority of data on the computer was retrieved.  The bad news, our website was unable to be updated during the down time.  We're up and running with a new system so you can expect more routine updates to our on-line newsletter again.
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Welcome newest Board member - James Heath

The Transition House, Inc., welcomes our newest Board member - James Heath.  James works for the City of Norman doing housing rehab.  We welcome his energy and willingness to help whenever possible.  Welcome James!
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Annual Halloween Party Kicks Off the Holiday Season at TH

Halloween 2006 - 2.jpg (331390 bytes) Recovery can be lots of hard work, and as the old saying goes - all work and no play....
Halloween 06 George.JPG (1471328 bytes)...can make a person old before their time!
So, Halloween marks the beginning of preparation for Holiday Season at our agency.  Check out these party pic's from Halloween 06 at TH...

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DTR group adds Friday's to their Meeting Schedule

The Double Trouble in Recovery (DTR) group has added Friday's to their meetings schedule.  The group' s meetings are:
Sunday ~ Wednesday ~ Friday
6:00 pm
Transition House, Inc., Drop-In Center, 700 Asp, Ste 4
For more information, click on DTR Meetings
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Welcome New Social Work Student - Jan Durbin

Jan.jpg (360698 bytes) Transition House, Inc., welcomes Jan Durbin to our agency!  Jan began her Social Work practicum in August 2006 and will be with our agency during the Fall semester 2006 and Spring 2007.  Welcome Jan!
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Thank You to our FY'06 Donors

During FY'06, 157 people/families and businesses donated to Transition House, Inc.  For more on our Donors of Time, Talent, and Treasurers, click on 2006 Donors.  Thanks to all who give so generously to Transition House, Inc.!
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Welcome New Board Members

During 2006, we have had several new volunteers join our Board of Directors.  Welcome to Vicki Dorrough, Monica Minadeo-Cook, Denise Johnson, and Dr. Asha Raju.  
Vicki is a drama teacher at Whittier Middle School.  Monica, a math educator and engineer, was very familiar with our agency through her work with Helpline at the Norman United Way.  Denise, a real estate agent, has been a long time volunteer judge at June Bug Jam - missing only 3 of the past 10 shows.  Asha is a psychiatrist at COCMHC and has worked with many clients from our agency.  Each new member brings a commitment and new energy to our agency and clients. 
We don't say it enough, but our Board is the backbone of our agency and we appreciate all that each volunteer gives to Transition House, Inc.  Thank you to current and past Transition House, Inc., Board members!
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Thanks to Retiring Board Members

During 2006, 3 of our Past Board Presidents have completed their 6 year terms on our Board.  In January 2006, Earl Whitman completed his second set of 6 years on our Board.  In June, John Koons completed his 6 year term.  John has already told us he'll be returning in June of 2007.  And our most recent retiring Board member is Jennifer Wilson-Burns.  All three of these very special Board members have served in a variety of leadership roles on the Board including as President of the Board.  Each has also played critical roles in past June Bug Jam shows.  Thanks to each of these wonderfully caring people for their continuing support and dedication to Transition House, Inc.

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Thanks Earl, Jennifer and John - each of you helped to shape our agency.  Your many and diverse contributions will always be an important part of Transition House, Inc.!
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DTR Meeting Day Change

Double Trouble in Recovery (DTR) Meetings 

Transition House, Inc.'s Drop-In Center -- Wednesday & Sunday -- 6:00 pm
Double Trouble in Recovery (DTR) is a twelve-step fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other so that they may solve their common problems and help others to recover from their particular addiction(s) and manage their mental disorder(s).  DTR is designed to meet the needs of the dually-diagnosed, and is clearly for those having addictive substance problems as well as having been diagnosed with a psychiatric disorders.  We band together to help ourselves recover from our addictions and mental problems.  We share our experiences to help ourselves become honest, open-minded and willing. Sharing helps all of us to remember how it was and how we arrived at where we are today.
For more information, contact George or Gwen at 329-5332 or 360-2991.  You can also e-mail transitionhouse@coxinet.net.
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Bonnie's 20 Anniversary at TH

BD 20th Anniversary.jpg (369140 bytes) Bonnie L. Dunn, MHR celebrated 20 years as Executive Director of Transition House, Inc., on August 16, 2006.  Staff, Board and clients celebrated this event with a party/"roast" held in Bonnie's honor on August 23.  Special highlight of this event was a video made by the clients and staff in which clients shared comments about Bonnie.
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Day of Caring 2006

DoC close up group 21.jpg (325340 bytes)OG&E volunteers did an outstanding job at Transition House, Inc., on September 8, 2006.  Click on Day of Caring 06 for all of the details.
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Thoughts from Chuck

Chuck Bonnie Steph.JPG (384778 bytes) Chuck is a proud recent graduate of the Transitional Living Program.  He was happy to share some of his thoughts on the program, so click on Chuck's Thoughts to learn about the value of Transition House, Inc.
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Congrat's to Chuck 

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Congrat's to Chuck for graduating from the Transitional Living Program!
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Congrat's to Dolly

100_2238.JPG (341085 bytes) Dolly is our most recent Transitional Living Program graduate.  She now has her own apartment and is very grateful for all that she learned and received from Transition House, Inc.
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Thanks to Sarkeys Foundation!

Thanks to Sarkeys Foundation for granting Transition House, Inc., an Emergency grant for $500 for utility assistance.  Transition House, Inc., works hard to keep costs down - especially when it comes to utility usage.  Sarkeys respects our efforts and assisted us with this grant.  
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Sue Wilson Charitable Fund Grants $5,000 to TH

Thanks to St. Thomas More Sue Wilson Charitable Fund for granting $5,000 to Transition House, Inc., for Client Essential Kits.  This grant will allow us to buy the "essentials" for clients coming into our Transitional Living Program - from sheets and towels to personal care items - the items purchased with this money will be given directly to the clients to take with them when they graduate from the program.
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JBJ 2006 a Wonderful Success!

Copy of IMG_0295.JPG (1575103 bytes) Thanks to the hard work of numerous volunteers and donors - preliminary numbers show an increase of $2,562 in earnings.  If all pledges come in, net earning should be $8,399!  For more information, click on June Bug Jam 2006.
If you'd like to see a clip from JBJ 2006, Jacob Lynn has posted his performance from the show on his website at www.jacoblynn.com.
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New Logo Proposed for Transition House, Inc.

Newsflash - the Board has approved the above logo as the new logo of Transition House, Inc.!
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Congratulations to Tyrone!

Tyrone Grad photo with Elizabeth.JPG (300248 bytes) Tyrone is our newest proud graduate of our Transitional Living Program.  He actually completed the program in March, but we were unable to hold his official graduation party until May.  We are very proud of Tyrone and appreciate his willingness to share his success with others through our newsletter.  Great job Tyrone - your hard work has paid off!
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Prescription Assistance

Thanks to a new contract with Rx for Oklahoma, Transition House, Inc., is offering a new service for our clients - Prescription Assistance.  for more on this, click on Rx Assistance.
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Farewell to Jennifer

Jennifer1.jpg (392401 bytes) It is with great sadness that we say farewell to our Social Work student Jennifer Holt.  Jennifer was a great student who gave a great deal to our agency.  She will be greatly missed!
Jennifer1.jpg (362482 bytes) Jennifer2.jpg (340692 bytes) The clients had a going away party for Jennifer and as you can tell, she enjoy the party and the food!  We miss you Jennifer and your smiling face!
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Quality of Life Study

Staff and Board members would like to know if being involved with Transition House, Inc., programs has helped to improve the Quality of Life of the people we serve.  If you are a client or former client of the agency, please click on Rate Your Life Quality for more on this study.
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Little River Zoo Visits TH

Special thanks to Little River Zoo for bringing some animals by our agency to visit with the clients and staff.  The Zoo has made this an annual visit thanks to support from a SVSC City of Norman Grant.  
bulletCollage Project a Big Success
IM001609.JPG (740374 bytes) Transition House, Inc., clients submitted this Collage in the Hideaway Pizza Collage Contest.  For more on this, click on Collage Project.
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Collage Receives Honorable Mention

100_22111.JPG (429728 bytes) The Transition House, Inc., Collage received an Honorable Mention in the Hideaway Collage Contest!!  In addition, clients received a $100 check for their work which they decided to donate to a special client fund at Transition House, Inc.
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June Bug Jam 2006 Stars are Set

MaciPh4.jpg (29551 bytes) With Maci Wainwright as the 10th Anniversary June Bug Jam Headliner, this year's show promises to be outstanding!  And as if Maci's talent is enough, we have outstanding All Stars performing in this year's show as well.  Joining Maci are Summer Clifton, Randy Heavin, Jacob Lynn and Morgan Brown.  For more on our JBJ '06 Stars, click on JBJ'06 Stars.
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JBJ '06 Contestant Entry and Sponsor forms are available on-line.

If you'd like a chance at winning cash prizes in the JBJ '06 Talent Competition, click on Contestant Entry for more information.
If you'd like to become a JBJ '06 Sponsor, click on JBJ'06 Sponsor Forms.
For general information June Bug Jam 2006, click on June Bug Jam 2006.
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Congrat's to Michael

Copy of 100_2193.JPG (544450 bytes) Well wishes go out to our most recent graduate Michael.
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Why Give To Transition House, Inc.?

Clients were asked to answer the following question - "Why should people give money to Transition House, Inc.?"  Click on Client's Comments to read their comments.
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Client Feedback

If you were wondering what the clients of Transition House, Inc., think of the agency, click on Client's Comments.
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Mental Health Day at the Capitol

Mark your calendars now for the annual Mental Health Day at the State Capitol - Wednesday, March 8, 2006.  Activities begin at 10:00 am on the 2nd floor Rotunda.  To see photos from past Days at the Capitol, click on Advocacy.
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TH wins the Best Adult Music float for the 2nd year in a row!

Parade 05 13 Julie.jpg (110061 bytes) It was endless hours of work - truly a labor of love - and the result was the best Holiday Parade float in the history of Transition House, Inc.!  This was a client holiday project that became one of the best mental wellness activities experienced by a group at our agency.  A huge thanks to the many who worked so hard, gave so much, and believe in the work of our agency!  For more on the parade and lots of photos, click on Holiday Parade.
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Chuck's Story

Chuck11.jpg (38847 bytes) For a wonderful story that reflects the experience of mental illness and the hope for recovery, click on Chuck's Story.

Happy 2006
Farewell to 2005

Season Greetings from our Family to Yours!

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Please join us at our annual 

Holiday Party/Open House

Tuesday, December 20, 2005

3-5pm ~ 700 Asp Ste 2 & 4

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Holiday Parade Prep

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Prep work has begun for the Transition House, Inc., float for the Holiday Parade.  In addition to our Elf and Jack in the Box, the float will feature Drum Circle members and June Bug Jam winners Britni Hendrickson & Jacob Lynn.  Mark your calendars for Saturday, December 10, 2005.  Parade kicks off at 10:00 am from Norman High.
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Congrat's to Steve

Steve's Cake.jpg (114366 bytes)  Katie & Steve 2.jpg (76669 bytes) Congrat's to our recent Transitional Living Program graduate - Steve.  Steve has agreed to share his story with our readers, so for more on Steve - click on Steve's Story.
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Date set for June Bug Jam 2006

Mark your calendars now for June Bug Jam 2006, Saturday, June 10, 2006.  This will be the 10th annual June Bug Jam.  For more, click on June Bug Jam 2006.  Anyone interested in more information on the event can contact Bonnie at 360-7926 or e-mail transitionhouse@coxinet.net.
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Halloween Bash 2005

Halloween Party Pic41.jpg (79199 bytes) Thanks to lots of hard work by the Transition House, Inc., staff and clients, the annual Halloween Party filled the community room at McKinzie Gardens with a capacity crowd.  Click on Party Pics for more on this event.
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Double Trouble in Recovery (DTR) being held at Transition House, Inc.'s Drop-In Center

Double Trouble in Recovery (DTR) is a twelve-step fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other so that they may solve their common problems and help others to recover from their particular addiction(s) and manage their mental disorder(s).  DTR is designed to meet the needs of the dually-diagnosed, and is clearly for those having addictive substance problems as well as having been diagnosed with a psychiatric disorders.  We band together to help ourselves recover from our addictions and mental problems.  We share our experiences to help ourselves become honest, open-minded and willing. Sharing helps all of us to remember how it was and how we arrived at where we are today.
DTR meetings are now being held twice per week at the Transition House, Inc., Drop-In Center (700 Asp, Ste 4, Norman, OK), Wednesday and Saturday evenings from 6 until 7 p.m.
Call Chuck M. at 329-5332 or 360-7926 or e-mail drsivana99@hotmail.com for details.
www.doubletroubleinrecovery.org/
www.draonline.org/
bulletTransition House, Inc., Board and Staff selling Festival of Giving tickets
Transition House, Inc., is one of many non-profit agencies participating in the Norman Sooner Mall's Festival of Giving.  The event is an exclusive night of shopping after hours at the Mall, with live entertainment (hopefully some of our JBJ Stars will be there), snacks, photos with Santa and lots of store discounts.  If you'd like more information, e-mail Bonnie at transitionhouse@coxinet.net.  The event is Sunday, November 20, 2005, 6:30 - 9:00pm.  If you'd like to purchase a ticket to the event, they are $5 and all proceeds from tickets sold by Transition House, Inc., staff and Board members will go directly back to Transition House, Inc.
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June Bug Jam Stars join TH to participate in Holiday Parade on December 10, 2005

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For the 3rd year, our agency will be entering a float in the Norman Holiday Parade.  This year's theme is "Toyland on Main Street."  Along with Clients, Staff, Board members and Volunteers, 2 of our JBJ stars - Britni Hendrickson and Jacob Lynn have agreed to be part of this year's float.  If you'd like to be a part of our float this year, please contact Bonnie at transitionhouse@coxinet.net.  
bulletDrop-In Center gets a New Look
Thanks to lots of hard work from our Day of Caring Volunteers from the National Severe Storms Lab, the Drop-In Center has a new look.  A fresh coat of paint is just the start of the new look for the Center.  For the past couple of years, we've been working to improve the look of our agency.  Last year, our offices were painted and this year it was the Drop-In Center.  For more the Day of Caring project, click on Day of Caring.
bulletBe a Part of the TH Makeover
Creating a new and improved look for all of the spaces of Transition House, Inc., is no easy task - especially with very limited resources.  If you'd be interested in helping with this project, please e-mail Bonnie at transitionhouse@coxinet.net.
Below is a list of some of the items we need:
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New Twin size Mattresses for the Transitional Living Apartments
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Sofas and Loveseats in good condition
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Machine Washable covers for Sofas and Loveseats (neutral colors preferred)
bulletWelcome to our Social Work Student - Jennifer Roesel
MVC-013S1.JPG (32050 bytes) Once again, Transition House, Inc., is fortunate to have a student from OU's School of Social Work.  This year's student, Jennifer Roesel, will be with our agency during the fall of 2005 and spring of 2006.  Welcome Jennifer to our staff!
bulletFY'05 Annual Report is On-line
The FY'05 Annual Report for Transition House, Inc., is complete and highlights from the report are posted on our website.  Click on Annual Report to see the highlights from the report .  To get a complete copy of the report, contact Bonnie at transitionhouse@coxinet.net.
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Community Outreach Undergoes a Makeover

With every loss there is opportunity for growth and improvement.  That is the belief of the staff, clients, and board of our agency.  So, though we will miss Todd and all that he brought to our agency, now it is time to look at ways that we can improve the opportunities and services available to those using the services of our Outreach Program.  If you have ideas or suggestions during this time of "program makeover," please e-mail your thoughts/ideas to transitionhouse@coxinet.net.
bullet  Recovery Coordinator Position Filled
elizabeth.JPG (23410 bytes) After a thorough search, we our proud to announce that Elizabeth Kuhlman will begin as Transition House, Inc.'s new Recovery Coordinator.  Elizabeth will join our agency officially on August 1, 2005.
Elizabeth, along with other candidates, went through a very intense screening process that included meeting with several clients in the program.  After meeting and visiting with Elizabeth, clients gave her a 'thumbs up' and the staff agreed.
Elizabeth's job qualifications include a BA in Psychology from University of Texas at Richardson, Texas plus many years of experience with a family member who has a mental health and substance abuse problem.  This life experience, her very healthy attitude towards recovery, her desire to work in this setting, plus her degree made Elizabeth our choice for the position.  
Welcome Elizabeth to Transition House, Inc.!
bulletKatie Bottoms becomes Senior Recovery Coordinator
With the changes in our programs and staffing, we are proud to announce a change in job title and responsibility for Katie Bottoms who had been our Recovery Coordinator for 7 years.  As Senior Recovery Coordinator, Katie will work with the Recovery Coordinator to provide direct services focused on recovery skill development and socialization opportunities for clients in both the Transitional Living and Outreach Programs.  Katie will have more oversight responsibilities with the Outreach Program and will work with our Clinical Director, Jeanene Davidson, LCSW, to ensure that Elizabeth has the best possible training for her new position as Recovery Coordinator.
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Farewell to Todd

Todd.jpg (64855 bytes) Todd Balcom, MT-BC had been a part of the Transition House, Inc., staff since July 2001 and in July 2005, Todd decided it was time for him to focus his energy and attention on the business he began prior to his work at Transition House, Inc.  Todd has been doing contract work locally and in the region as a music therapist and we wish him well and continued success.  To find out more about Todd and his music therapy, go to www.rhythmevents.com.
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Congrat's to JBJ Star Randy Heavin

Randy3.jpg (61050 bytes) Randy was the winner in the Country Music Division for May 2005 in the VH1 Save the Music Song of the Year Contest.  If you want to listen to Randy's song, click on Stuck between a rock and no placeIf you want to read more on the contest, Click here: Song Contest Winner Announcement.
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New "Do's" for Clients

Mark&Michelle.jpg (54272 bytes) Thanks to Hair Stylist Michelle McFarland, (from the Blue Lagoon Salon in Moore, OK, 799-0202) several clients at Transition House, Inc., received free haircuts and styles that made their day!  Michelle brought her expertise to our Drop-In Center and it was a Day of Improved Self-Esteem for many.  Check out some of these actions photos and "after" shots:

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"Thanks Michelle for being a wonderful, kind human being!" - from the clients of Transition House, Inc.
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June Bug Jam 2005 

For wrap up information on June Bug Jam 2005, click on JBJ 05 Wrap Up.
Below are a couple of photos of agency Executive Director, Bonnie Dunn with "the Stars."

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Thanks to our many supporters who helped to make June Bug Jam 2005 our best show ever!
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Client Views

If you want to see read some comments from our clients on how being in the Transitional Living Program impacted their lives, click on Client's Comments.
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Congrat's to Leaster Lenard, MSW

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A very special Thank You to Leaster for doing her Social Work practicum at Transition House, Inc.  We'll miss you Leaster!!!
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Congrat's to Program Graduate - David Blue

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Congrat's to Dave on his graduation from the Transitional Living Program.  We'll all miss Dave's wonderful laugh and smile every morning, but he's promised to visit often.  Way to go Dave!  We're very proud of your success.  FYI, Dave will be part of the June Bug Jam Drum Circle - he's a happy drummer.
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Congrat's to Program Graduate - Patricia Lewis

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Patricia is a very happy recent graduate of our Transitional Living Program.  We are all very proud of her success and wish her well in her new home in the community!
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"Directions"

Leaster & Steve.JPG (39298 bytes)"Directions" is a wonderful new project that will help homeless persons find their way to food and shelter in our community.  The project was started by students from OU and a person who is currently in the Transitional Living Program.  For more on this outstanding community project, click on "Directions".
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Rally at the Capitol

Mental Health Day at the Capitol

Tuesday, March 1, 2005

for more information and photos from the event, click on Advocacy
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Music Links

As a thank you to the many wonderful musical  supporters and organizations who have helped Transition House, Inc., over the years, I have developed a Musical Link page on our website.  Click on Musical Links for more information.
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Holiday Party 

HappyHolidays2.jpg (118211 bytes)  The annual Holiday Party/Open House at Transition House, Inc., was a wonderful event.  Click on Holiday Party to see photos from the event.  Very special thanks to the many generous "Santa's" and "Elves" who worked so hard to make this a wonderful holiday for many people involved with Transition House, Inc.
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Holiday Parade

trophy_group.jpg (37363 bytes) Transition House, Inc.'s float was recognized as the "Best Adult Music" float in the 2004 Norman Holiday Parade.  For more information, click on Holiday Parade.
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2005 Donor Drive

The 2005 Donor Drive is underway.  Click on Donor Drive for more information and to find out how to make a contribution to Transition House, Inc.
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Congratulations Megan & Andy Sherrer

Sheridan.jpg (708357 bytes) Megan is the TH Board Secretary and on November 22, 2004 she gave birth to Sheridan Sherrer - 8 lbs, 9oz.
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New E-mail Address

Transition House, Inc.'s new e-mail address is transitionhouse@coxinet.net.  For more details on staff e-mail addresses, click on Contact Information
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Welcome New Board Members

Welcome to our newest Board members:  
Dana Cramer, Jeannette Doty, Pamela Lewis, Phyllis Mattek, Eunice McDowell, Jeff Vinson, Jennifer Baker, and Charlotte Jones
For the complete Board list, click on Board
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TH Saves $$$

See how Transition House, Inc., saves Taxpayers $$$, click on Fact Sheets.
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TH Transforming to a Recovery Model

After a 2 day conference sponsored by DMHSAS, our agency began our transformation to a new program format.  Click on Recovery Transformation
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Paulina2.jpg (83353 bytes) Love/June Bug Jam Performer CD release 

Paulina Thompson had her CD release in Norman on December 11, 2004.  The morning of the 11th, she performed as part of the Transition House, Inc., float in the Holiday parade and that evening she had her release event at Border's in Norman.  A portion of the proceeds from the CD sales will go to Transition House, Inc.  Click on Paulina Thompson, CD Release Event and www.paulinathompson.com for more details.
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Current Needs

Click on the Current Needs for more information on current needs of the agency.

Makeovers Make a Difference...

Just ask Patricia, she was feeling down and needed a boost, so Katie stepped in and helped to brighten her day.  
From bushy brows that were dragging her down...

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... to the hard work...no one ever said beauty didn't come without a little pain...

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... to the outcome - in the end, the only thing Patricia was screaming about was how excited she was about the new look she had because Katie took the time to help her with her self-esteem!

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Patricia is very proud of her new look and wanted the whole world to see how beautiful she is!
Check out a Wonderful Story of Determination,  Hope, and Success
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 click on Sharon's Story.
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This is Henry.  After 10 years of avoiding the computer, Henry has now joined the ranks of the websurfers!  We're all very proud of Henry and we're very happy that he has learned to use the computer so he can e-mail his sister on the eastcoast. 
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Henry says... Go Sooners!
A Special Thank You from a few Transition House, Inc., Consumers:
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(click on the photo above to see just a few of the people who are grateful for your support of Transition House, Inc.)

Upcoming Events:

Thank You:

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June Bug Jam 2007

Our date hasn't been set yet, but we'll keep you posted!
...Wonderful funding sources:
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OK. Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services
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United Way of Norman
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Norman Housing Authority
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Norman's Social and Voluntary Services Commission
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Norman Regional Hospital
...and Contributors:
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the many who contribute through our Donor Drive, June Bug Jam, and  Silent Auction
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the many who contribute in-kind gifts
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with very special thanks to our volunteer Board of Directors