Visionary home builder creating senior living sanctuary www.seniornewsandliving.com Information for Oklahoma Seniors
Locally Owned and Published Each Month December 2015 Vol. 17 Issue 12 By Metro Publishing L.L.C. Gary England still sharing weather knowledge
Rocky, 60, and Phyllis Clark (59) have designed a new active adult retirement neighborhood. BY -IKE ,EE 3TAFF 7RITER Sanctuary. A peaceful refuge of country ambiance in the city. That’s the vision Rocky and Phyllis Clark had for the active adult retirement neighborhood they just opened in south Oklahoma City/Mustang. Whispering Creek is designed to foster and retain natural elements for the benefit of people and wildlife. Landscaped walking trails curve around the centrally located ponds and waterfalls. Fountains light up at night so they can be enjoyed at all hours. Deer, owls, rabbits, and birds of all kind See SANCTUARY Page 2 Spotlight on Community Caring for Miracles
PHOTO PROVIDED I recently attended the INTEGRIS Neonatal Intensive At 76, Gary England is still helping keep Oklahomans ahead of the storm through a Care Unit Reunion and Halloween Party. PAGE 12 new weather series with the University of Oklahoma.
BY "OBBY !NDERSON understands when Even in retirement 3TAFF 7RITER England walks into the the 76-year-old is still From time to time, room they are in the cracking jokes and - Gary England will drop by presence of greatness. more importantly - he’s the School of Meteorology But the self-described still helping Oklahomans at the University of kid from Seiling sets down protect themselves from Oklahoma to speak with a manila folder and pulls Oklahoma weather. the incoming freshman out rejection letter after Through much class. rejection letter. prodding, the University Any student who “I went a lot of places of Oklahoma has taken knows anything about and they didn’t like me,” up some of England’s weather in Oklahoma he grins. See ENGLAND Page 3 0AGE $ECEMBER 3ENIOR .EWS AND ,IVING /KLAHOMA WWWSENIORNEWSANDLIVINGCOM
/school librarian for 3!.#45!29 almost 20 years. She #ONTINUED FROM 0AGE has a Master’s degree call Whispering Creek home. A and has also favorite spot for watching nature is illustrated teacher the 1,800-square-foot covered back resource books. porch at the clubhouse. This is Rocky has coached where the Clarks designed the Little League Football perfect spot for residents to socialize in Moore since 1985. or just enjoy the peaceful tranquility He started by of the scenic view. coaching his son’s The idea to develop Whispering team and never Creek began when Phyllis and stopped. Thirty years Rocky found themselves looking later he heads up for senior living options for their the Moore Dirt Bags, parents. Everything they saw in a team of 10 year- the OKC metro area seemed to old boys, including have more concrete than green two of his grandsons. space. The Clarks felt that seniors Rocky and his family deserved more. They wanted to have lived in Moore create an upscale yet comfortable since 1965. That city’s haven that rewarded people for Junior High is where decades of hard work. A place where he met Phyllis and residents receive a helping hand they have been Whispering Creek is designed to foster and retain natural elements for the benefit of with chores and the peace of mind together ever since. people and wildlife and just opened in south Oklahoma City/Mustang. that comes with a gated entrance The Clarks are active and cameras. They envisioned a at Journey Church. They humbly crafts room, game area, living south OKC / Mustang on County culture where neighbors know admit they have been richly blessed rooms, fireplace, and private party Line Road. It is north of S.W. 59th and look after each other. They and truly want to bless others. room at the clubhouse. street and not far from Highway succeeded in their huge investment The family business is one Whispering Creek is located in 152. to make Whispering Creek all of the metro’s most active home they dreamed of it being. Some builders. R&R Homes has been people are choosing to live in the developing complete neighborhoods neighborhood because they like to for 10+ years. A few of their Oklahoma Climbs in travel and feel their home is more projects include Bella Terra in secure in that environment. Others Edmond, Rock Creek in Moore, choose Whispering Creek because and Riverview which sits on the America’s Health Rankings they want a private home but not Canadian River in Newcastle. all the maintenance that usually Whispering Creek is a gated Increase in Immunizations, Decrease in comes with it. community of homes for lease to The idea has been so successful people age 55 and better. The age- Smoking Rates Highlight Report that Clark has opened up a restricted neighborhood is designed purchase offer. The purchase option to cultivate friendships and the klahoma improved in Health (OSDH) Commissioner. is new and is in response to the extra support / security that comes America’s Health Rankings, a “Even more rewarding is the numerous requests for buying into from living among peers. People report issued by United Health knowledge that increasing vaccine the gated neighborhood rather than can be as social or private as they Foundation, to 45th overall. The coverage saves lives, particularly renting. want. Scheduled activities at the state has improved since ranking among our youngest and most Rocky, age 60, and Phyllis, 59, clubhouse will focus on resident’s 49th in the nation in 2009. The vulnerable residents.” co-own R&R Homes with their interests and will vary from yoga, report highlights progress on America’s Health Rankings son, Russell, and daughter-in-law, book-of-the-month, and crafts to immunization rates, preventable 2015 report also highlights Tabitha. In fact, three of their four card games and pot luck socials. hospitalizations and a reduction Oklahoma’s lowest ever smoking kids work alongside them. And, A variety of one and two- in the adult smoking rate. rate at 21.1 percent. While still so do their in-laws. Family is a bedroom floor plans are available. The most dramatic three percent above the national top priority for the Clark clan. The homes have many built-in achievement in the report was smoking rate, Oklahoma has They all reside within seven acres luxuries and upscale extras. Spacious Oklahoma’s more than 10 percent continued to make dramatic of each other and are living walk-in closets, granite bath and increase in the number of improvements in the number of what is quickly becoming the new kitchen counters, covered porches, children immunized, from 62.7 people who smoke. American dream. generous lighting, inlaid tile, percent in 2014 to 73.3 percent “The success we have seen Rocky and Phyllis grin ear and window seats are some of this year. That rate is almost two in smoking rates is due to the to ear when talking about their the homes’ features. Refrigerator, percent higher than the national commitment of organizations like 11 grandchildren and the 2 more washer / dryer, and all appliances rate of 71.6 percent and will TSET, health policy leaders such being adopted. At first glance a are provided. Whispering Creek effectively prevent children from as Governor Mary Fallin and person could mistake the quiet and handles all the lawn care and contracting dangerous diseases. scores of community partners casually dressed pair as an average home maintenance. The affordable “It’s rewarding to see the who have rallied to combat this Joe and Jane but they are anything rents start at $1,425 and include progress our immunization staff health threat.” Dr. Cline said. but typical. Married 41 years, they all these things plus basic cable and county health departments “While we celebrate this progress are as dedicated to serving others television, water, sewer, trash, and have made in providing access to together there is still work to be as they are to loving their family clubhouse amenities. Residents have life-saving vaccines for our state’s done. We have 88,000 kids alive and building quality homes. Phyllis free access to a storm shelter, children,” said Dr. Terry Cline, in Oklahoma today who will die was a 1st grade school teacher fitness center, activities kitchen, Oklahoma State Department of See RANKING Page 3 3ENIOR .EWS AND ,IVING /KLAHOMA $ECEMBER 0AGE
Visiting his granddaughter, career with KWTV in Oklahoma He is the author of four books %.',!.$ Cassidy, now a sophomore at City in 1972. Over his 41-year and has appeared in more than #ONTINUED FROM 0AGE OU, England was hit up while career with KWTV, England is 60 national and international retirement time to collaborate on on campus to work on the series credited with saving countless severe weather programs. In a new weather series. by President David Boren’s Chief lives and properties with his 2013, England assumed a new This Sooner Series consists of of Staff Nicholas Hathaway. steady, measured reporting during role at KWTV-9 as the vice short, entertaining videos that will “A bunch of us sat down and severe storms in Oklahoma. president for corporate relations give people of all ages a better what amazes me is how you England became and weather development at understanding of Oklahoma’s gather so many really intelligent internationally noted for Griffin Communications. severe weather patterns and and creative people together,” pioneering innovations in weather England was named an OU events. This entertaining series England said. “They’re quite technology and systems that Outstanding Alumnus in 2008. will make it easy and fun for amazing.” are now common tools in the He was further honored by OU you to become familiar with the “I like doing the series. You world of severe weather coverage, in October 2013 at the annual fundamentals of our weather, the plan it. You do it and you’ve got including first acquisition and Ring Ceremony and also served history of weather forecasting, it out there forever for people.” application of commercial Doppler as parade marshal for OU’s and the technology used by From there, the Janux series radar, the storm time of arrival Homecoming. England received meteorology professionals to keep was born. It came at a right time warning system, corner screen the University of Oklahoma’s the public as safe as possible. for the recently retired England. warning maps, and cellular still highest award in 2014, an Using Janux’s social discussion “Retirement kind of snuck up picture/video transmission. Honorary Doctorate of Humane forum, participants will be able on me,” say’s OU’s meterologist With the firm Enterprise Letters. to interact directly with Gary in residence. “I never have liked Electronics, he implemented the England is still highly-sought and share their own weather to take vacations. Never liked world’s first commercial Doppler in the legal field as a consultant, stories and experiences with to travel. I love what I do. My weather radar in 1981, becoming testifying for attorneys as an people around the globe. lifetime dream was to be on TV the first person in history to expert witness - something he’s This series is being offered at at Channel 9. I never had a use Doppler radar for direct done since the 1970s. no cost through multiple media thought past that.” warnings to the public. “The legal stuff is fun until channels, including iTunes U, Undeniably, England is an Dubbed “The Weather God of you get to court,” England YouTube, and OU’s Janux online Oklahoma treasure. Born in Oklahoma City” by the New York laughed. learning platform. Seiling, Oklahoma, England joined Times, England is the recipient But when Oklahoma’s weather These videos have been the U.S. Navy at age 17, after of numerous awards and honors, ramps up, England still feels that professionally produced by which he attended The University including four Emmy Awards itch. NextThought, and the entire of Oklahoma, graduating in 1965 and the Silver Circle Award “I miss it a little,” England series is being released at once, with a Bachelor of Science in by the National Academy of said. “I’ll tune in on bad weather so that taking part is convenient mathematics and meteorology. Television Arts and Sciences, and I think … I don’t miss the to fit your schedule. He began his broadcasting Heartland Division. death, destruction and human He was inducted into the suffering. I grew really weary of Oklahoma Hall of Fame in 2013. that.” He also received the prestigious And just like he’s done for the Edward R. Murrow Award for last 40 years, even in retirement best in the nation in breaking England is still trying to keep weather coverage in all large Oklahomans safe. markets. state due to limited availability 2!.+).' of primary care physicians and #ONTINUED FROM 0AGE the continuing high rate of prematurely from smoking. That cardiovascular deaths. is just not right.” Oklahoma was recognized for accomplishments in other areas MERRY CHRISTMAS! important to public health. In from your friends the past five years, preventable hospitalizations have declined at SN&L by 29 percent for Medicare beneficiaries. Prevalence of physical inactivity was almost five percent lower than the previous year, with 28.3 percent of state residents reporting that they were not physically active. Oklahoma was also cited for strengths in low prevalence of excessive drinking and small disparity in health status by education level. While rates of obesity, diabetes and drug deaths rose in the state, those categories followed a similar national trend. The report also cites challenges in the 0AGE $ECEMBER 3ENIOR .EWS AND ,IVING /KLAHOMA WWWSENIORNEWSANDLIVINGCOM /0).)/. Pill Splitting Dos and Don’ts Dear Savvy Senior, Is pill splitting safe? I have several friends who cut their pills in half in order to save money, but I have some concerns. What can you tell me? Cautious Kim
doctor or pharmacist to find you to split them unevenly released or long-lasting and out if any of the medicines you resulting in two pieces with tablets that contain a Dear Kim, use can be safely split. It’s also very different dosages, which combination of drugs probably Pill splitting – literally important to find out whether can be dangerous. Purchase a shouldn’t be split, because it’s cutting them in half – has splitting them will save you proper pill cutter that has a difficult to ensure a proper become a popular way to save enough money to justify the cover and a V-shaped pill grip amount of active ingredient in on pharmaceutical costs but hassle. that holds the pill securely in each half. Pills with a coating to you need to talk to your doctor The pills that are easiest place. You can find them at protect your stomach, and pills or pharmacist first, because not to split are those with a score most pharmacies for $3 to $10. that crumble easily or irritate all pills can be split. down the middle. However, not For convenience, you might your mouth shouldn’t be split The reason pill splitting is every pill that’s scored is meant be tempted to split the whole either, along with chemotherapy such a money saver is because to be split. Pills that are most bottle of pills at once. But it’s drugs, anti-seizure medicines, of a quirk in the way drugs commonly split include: best to do the splitting on the birth control pills and capsules are manufactured and priced. · Cholesterol lowering drugs, day you take the first half, and containing powders or gels. A pill that’s twice as strong like Crestor, Lipitor, Mevacor, then take the other half on the Again, your doctor or as another may not be twice Pravachol and Zocor. second day or whenever you pharmacist will know which the price. In fact, it’s usually · Antidepressants, like are scheduled to take your next drugs can and cannot be split. about the same price. So, Lexapro, Celexa, Serzone, Paxil, dose. That will help keep the If you’re taking a medicine that buying a double-strength dose and Zoloft. drugs from deteriorating due can be split, you’ll need to get and cutting it in half may allow · High blood pressure to exposure to heat, moisture, a prescription from your doctor you to get two months worth of medicines such as, Accupril, or air. It will also help ensure for twice the dosage you need. medicine for the price of one. Zestril, Diovan, Avapro, that any deviation in the size Then you can start splitting But is it safe? As long as your Norvasc, Tenormin, Toprol and of one dose is compensated in safely, and saving. doctor agrees that splitting your Cardura. the next. It’s also important to pills is OK for you, you learn · Erectile dysfunction pills, know that pills are only safely Send your senior questions how to do it properly, and you like Viagra, Cialis and Levitra. split in half, and never into to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box split only pills that can be split, Use a Splitter smaller portions such as into 5443, Norman, OK 73070, there’s really no danger. Having the right equipment thirds or quarters. or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Ask Your Doctor is very important too. Don’t Don’t Split These Miller is a contributor to the If you’re interested in use a knife or scissors to cut Some pills should never be NBC Today show and author splitting your pills, talk to your your pills in half. It can cause split. Drugs that are time- of “The Savvy Senior” book. ‘Tis the Season for Crooks Christmas is less than two “Lock” icon. Depending on which insurance. If not, you may be able your card. Mistakes can be made weeks away, and the stores and web browser you use, the “Lock” to add identity theft insurance to in the hustle and bustle of malls will be filled with last- could be in lower right or lower your current policy or purchase a shopping. And finally, safeguard minute shoppers. About 44 percent left corner. stand-alone policy. your receipts. Thieves often look of people will do their holiday · Designate one credit card for If you prefer to shop at local for discarded papers to steal credit shopping in December or later, online shopping only. stores for your holiday gifts, card information. according to one annual survey. By only using one card for your use these common sense tips to If you are the victim of a crime, While all the spending is good for online purchases, you can easily protect yourself: report it to the police immediately retailers, it can also be irresistible monitor that particular card if · Don’t tempt a crook. Don’t and ask for a police report. to thieves. But there are ways to there is any suspicious activity. flash cash or credit cards when This will help you decide if you discourage crooks from targeting If you are a victim of identity making a purchase. want to file an insurance claim. you whether you shop at a local theft, it can be expensive to Take time to put your money Theft of personal possessions is store or online. reestablish your credit and away properly after you generally covered by homeowners With 40 percent of households identity. Identity theft insurance checkout. and renters insurance policies. expected to do their holiday can cost between $25 and $60 · Limit the number of packages There is also limited coverage for shopping on a computer, consider per year. It does not cover direct and bags you carry. stolen credit cards - usually up these tips to fight cyber monetary losses incurred as result Struggling to carry several to $500. For any other insurance criminals: of identity theft. Instead, identity shopping bags makes it easy for a information contact the Oklahoma · Only shop on secure theft insurance provides coverage crook to steal your wallet or take Insurance Department at 1-800- websites. for the cost of reclaiming your one of your packages. 522-0071 or visit our website at There are two ways to tell financial identity, such as the costs · Protect your identity www.oid.ok.gov. if a website is secure. First, of making phone calls, making Take only the credit cards you The Oklahoma Insurance Department, an check the web page URL. On copies, mailing documents, taking plan to use, and guard them agency of the State of Oklahoma, is a secure connection, the web time off from work without pay carefully. Crooks can memorize responsible for the education and protection address should start with “https.” and hiring an attorney. credit card numbers over of the insurance-buying public and for The “s” at the end stands for Your current homeowner’s someone’s shoulder. Also, make oversight of the insurance industry in the secure. Second, check for the policy may include identity theft sure the cashier hands you back state. 3ENIOR .EWS AND ,IVING /KLAHOMA $ECEMBER 0AGE Whodunit Dinner Theater Announces Line up for January 7HODUNIT $INNER 4HEATERS ORIGINAL FORMAT PRESENTS @3HOWDOWN !T -ADAM 9AHOOS 3ALOONv 4HIS HILARIOUS WESTERN WRITTEN BY /KLAHOMAS PLAYWRIGHT %ARLINE #OTTET IS A CROWD FAVORITE $ATES INCLUDE &RIDAY $ECEMBER TH TH *ANUARY TH AT #ATTLEMENS 3TEAKHOUSE 3 !GNEW OKC YOU CAN NOT ACCESS TICKETS BY CALLING THE RESTAURANT YOU MUST CALL 7HODUNITS NUMBER AT OR GO TO WWWWHODUNITNET 4UESDAY $ECEMBER TH &RIDAY *ANUARY ND AT 4EDS %SCONDIDO .ORTH . -AY YOU CAN NOT ACCESS TICKETS BY CALLING THE RESTAURANT YOU MUST CALL 7HODUNITS NUMBER AT OR GO TO WWWWHODUNITNET 7HODUNIT 0ART 9/5 IS OUR NEWEST FORMAT WHERE THE AUDIENCE ACTUALLY PLAYS A PART 3IX AUDIENCE MEMBERS RECEIVE A SCRIPT COSTUME ACCESSORIES AND JOIN IN ON THE MYSTERY 4HEY MAY EVEN BE THE ONE @7HODUNIT 7EVE TEAMED UP WITH /KLAHOMAS HISTORICAL 'RANDISON )NN FOR THIS SHOW WE PRESENT @-URDER !T 4HE 'RANDISON )NN 4HIS BRAND NEW COMEDY MYSTERY WRITTEN BY /KLAHOMA PLAYWRIGHT 4ERRI -YERS WILL GIVE YOU FOND MEMORIES FOR YEARS TO COME $ATES INCLUDE 3ATURDAY *ANUARY OUR @SWEETHEARTS SHOW ON &EBRUARY TH AT 4HE 'RANDISON )NN . 3HARTEL !VE /KC GET TICKETS BY CALLING 4ICKET PRICES FOR ALL 7HODUNIT SHOWS ARE AND INCLUDE DINNER SHOW !RRIVAL TIMES FOR ALL 7HODUNIT SHOWS IS PM 0AGE $ECEMBER 3ENIOR .EWS AND ,IVING /KLAHOMA WWWSENIORNEWSANDLIVINGCOM #/--5.)49 RSVP announces $15,000 grant from OKC Foundation RSVP of Central Oklahoma is live independently in their own pleased to announce it received a homes” states Beth Patterson, $15,000 grant from the Oklahoma Executive Director of RSVP. City Community Foundation and RSVP of Central Oklahoma its Services for Elderly iFund grant has served older adults and the program. The grant is being used nonprofit community for 42 years. RSVP is a part of the Corporation living independently in their own to support the RSVP Provide-A-Ride The mission of RSVP is to enrich for National and Community Service homes. For more information on medical transportation program for the lives of semi-retired and and a proud partner agency of the iFund grant program, please low-income older adults. retired people by linking them United Way of Central Oklahoma. visit www.ifundokc.org. For more “Older adults who are no longer with rewarding and meaningful The Oklahoma City Community information on the Oklahoma City able to drive depend on RSVP community volunteer opportunities. Foundation was founded in 1969 Community Foundation please visit Provide-A-Ride volunteer drivers Presently 750 RSVP volunteers serve and works with donors and www.occf.org. to receive safe and reliable 136 local nonprofit organizations organizations to create endowments RSVP is accepting volunteer rides to and from their medical that depend on volunteers to meet that address needs and opportunities applications from persons age 55 appointments; and the generous their agency mission and the needs within our community. The and older who are interested in grant received from the Oklahoma of their clients. During the past Services for Elderly iFund grant sharing their time, skills and talents City Community Foundation is year RSVP volunteers contributed program represents a compilation to make a difference in the lives of playing an integral part in 150,000 service hours to help make of contributions from donors who others. Please visit rsvpokc.org or helping hundreds of older our community a better place to want to support grants to help telephone 405-605-3110. Oklahomans remain healthy and live. keep senior citizens safe and 3ENIOR .EWS AND ,IVING /KLAHOMA $ECEMBER 0AGE (%!,4( The Paul Silverstein Burn Center Celebrates 40 Years of Courage and Commitment In 1975, America ended the expanded to include hyperbaric Vietnam War, “One Flew Over oxygen therapy. In 1995, an the Cuckoo’s Nest” nearly swept additional 12-place hyperbaric the Academy Awards, designer chamber (the largest in Barbara Jett, Dr. Greg Walton, Traci Walton, Dr. Paul Silverstein, Dr. blue jeans were a hot new trend Oklahoma) was installed and Amalia Miranda, Dr. Mason Jett. and a 39-year-old plastic surgeon a separate Hyperbaric Medicine in a telemedicine program this vision, hopefully someday from Boston launched the first and Wound Care Center was for acute burns, that would soon children suffering burn burn center in Oklahoma City established side-by-side with the allow physicians in local injuries will no longer have to at Baptist Medical Center. That burn center. In 2000, the board emergency departments or be transported out-of-state to doctor was Paul Silverstein, of directors honored Silverstein’s regional hospitals to consult receive optimal care. M.D. commitment and legacy to the directly with a burn surgeon On Nov. 8, a special While a major in the treatment of burn patients by before sending the patient to ceremony was held at Gaillardia U.S. Army from 1969 to renaming the facility, the Paul the burn center. Country Club to commemorate 1972, Silverstein served at the Silverstein Burn Center. In addition, Lentz is planning Silverstein’s many prestigious U.S. Army Institute Today, the Paul Silverstein an expansion of patient care accomplishments and to celebrate of Surgical Research at Fort Burn Center at INTEGRIS Baptist to include pediatric surgeons the future successes of the burn Sam Houston in San Antonio, Medical Center is known across and nurses at INTEGRIS Baptist center. Texas. There, he cared for the nation as a center of Medical Center. As a result of and performed research for the excellence with a dedicated benefit of military burn victims staff of doctors, nurses and from the Vietnam conflict, other paramedical personnel veterans, Native Americans, committed to life beyond Eskimos, and their families. It survival. “Our goal is to was an experience that drove rehabilitate a patient, not just him to find ways to treat save a life,” affirms Silverstein. and care for perhaps the most “If a patient leaves here a painful and devastating injury whole person and a productive people ever suffer. member of society, then we The Kerr Foundation gave a have accomplished our goal.’ jumpstart to the effort to found Since its opening in 1975, a burn center in Oklahoma the burn center has expanded City by contributing $500,000, to become one of the largest if a matching amount could adult burn centers in the United be raised. Burn centers have States, serving a six state area. always been known as a costly More than 5,000 patients have venture. But Baptist Medical been treated at the center, Center’s leaders, among them plus another 10,000 outpatients. former CEO Jay Henry and It is a 40-year legacy of plastic surgeon Ed Dalton, M.D., compassion and leadership and saw the clear need for a metro a true testament to the vision area burn treatment facility. of doctors and nurses, hospital They persisted, raising the administrators and concerned money needed to remodel an business leaders. existing patient care floor at Now that legacy, under Baptist Medical Center. The the guidance of Christopher new burn center opened in Lentz, M.D., continues with November 1975 as the hospital’s a commitment to push the first Center of Excellence, with boundaries of burn therapy a commitment to patient care, further. In an effort to improve research, teaching and burn access to care in Oklahoma, prevention. our burn center providers are In 1989, the burn center evaluating community interest 0AGE $ECEMBER 3ENIOR .EWS AND ,IVING /KLAHOMA WWWSENIORNEWSANDLIVINGCOM 'UIDE 4/ 3ENIOR ,IVING 4OTAL 5NITS OR "EDS $INING &ACILITY 7ELLNESS #ENTER 0OOL 0ETS !LLOWED &ITNESS #ENTER
7EBSITE "ARBER"EAUTY 3HOP 2ESPITE #ARE (OSPICE #ITY 0HONE !LZHEIMERS #ARE .URSING 'ARDENING !REA 4RANSPORTATION !RBOR (OUSE OF -USTANG -USTANG WWWARBORHOUSEUCOM !RBOR (OUSE OF .ORMAN .ORMAN WWWARBORHOUSEUCOM !RBOR (OUSE OF -IDWEST #ITY -IDWEST #ITY WWWARBORHOUSEUCOM !RBOR (OUSE 2EMINISCE #ENTER .ORMAN WWWARBORHOUSEUCOM !SHTON ON THE 'REEN WWWWPMONLINECOM )NDEPENDENT ,IVING %L 2ENO #HATEAU ON THE 'REEN WWWCHATEAUONTHEGREENCOM )NDEPENDENT ,IVING -OORE %MERALD 3QUARE WWWMERIDIANSENIORCOM )NDEPENDENT ,IVING!SSISTED ,IVING /+# &EATHERSTONE 2ET #OMMUNITY WWWFEATHERSTONERETIREMENTCOM !SSISTED ,IVING -OORE &OUNTAIN "ROOK WWWFOUNTAINBROOKLIVINGCOM !SSISTED ,IVING -EMORY 3UPPORT -IDWEST #ITY 'ARDENS AT 2EDING )NDEPENDENT ,IVING /+# WWWCSTONEDEVCOM (ERITAGE 0OINT OF /+# !SSISTED ,IVING !LZHEIMER -EMORY #ARE /+# WWWHERITAGEPOINTOKCCOM 3AVANNAH (OUSE OF 9UKON )NDEPENDENT ,IVING 9UKON WWWJRKPROPHOLDINGSCOM 3AVANNAH (OUSE OF -OORE )NDEPENDENT ,IVING -OORE WWWCARLSBADOKCOM 3AVANNAH (OUSE OF .ORMAN )NDEPENDENT ,IVING .ORMAN 7EST WWWCARLSBADOKCOM 3AVANNAH (OUSE OF .ORMAN )) )NDEPENDENT ,IVING .ORMAN %AST WWWCARLSBADOKCOM 4IMBERWOOD 3ENIOR (OUSING 3ENIOR (OUSING /+# WWWMERIDIANSENIORCOM 7HISPERING #REEK WWW7HISPERING#REEK2ETIREMENTCOM ! 'ATED 2ETIREMENT -USTANG 7YNDAM 0LACE WWWBEACON MGMTCOM 3ENIOR 2ESIDENCES .ORMAN 'RACE 0OINTE WWWGRACEPOINTELIVINGCOM #OTTAGE (OMES -OORE 7ILLOWOOD AT -USTANG !SSISTED ,IVING -USTANG WWWMERIDIANSENIORCARECOM 3AVANNAH (OUSE OF 'UTHRIE )NDEPENDENT ,IVING 'UTHRIE WWWJCKHOLDINGSCOM 7OODSON 0ARK !PARTMENTS )NDEPENDENT ,IVING %LRENO WOODSONPARKAPTS ATTNET .OTE 4HIS GUIDE DOES NOT REPRESENT A COMPLETE LISTING OF FACILITIES /NLY THOSE ADVERTISING IN THIS PUBLICATION ARE SHOWN 3ENIOR .EWS AND ,IVING /KLAHOMA $ECEMBER 0AGE Proper Insurance Will Prevent Weather Despair Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is encouraging Oklahomans to prepare for the winter weather season as weather forecasters warn about the possibility of freezing rain and flooding over the holiday weekend. “It’s important to understand what is and isn’t covered by your home and auto insurance,” Commissioner Doak said. “Winter storm damage can be financially devastating to a family without the proper insurance coverage. That’s why I’m urging all Oklahomans to review their policy before any storm hits.” Liability coverage under your auto insurance policy will cover damage you cause in an auto accident where you are found liable. The optional collision coverage of an auto policy will cover damages to your vehicle from an accident where the other driver is uninsured, a single-car crash or where you were at fault. Comprehensive coverage, which is also optional, would cover damage to your car caused by falling trees or ice. Review your policy for further clarification, or contact your insurance agent for more information. A standard homeowner’s insurance policy covers the following: · Wind-related damage to the house, roof or contents · Tree limbs that fall on a house – this includes both the damage done by the tree and the cost of removing the tree · Damage from ice and other objects that fall on the home · Freezing conditions such as burst pipes and ice dams; however, there is generally a requirement that the homeowner has taken reasonable steps to prevent this. You’ll want to review your policy with your agent for further clarification regarding the homeowners policy. Damage caused by flooding is not covered by standard homeowners or renters insurance. Melting snow that seeps into a home from the ground up would be covered by flood insurance which is provided by FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program. If you have winter weather related damage, contact your insurance agent as soon as possible to start the claim process. Don’t forget to document the damage with lists, receipts and pictures. This is also a good time to assess your home inventory and make sure it’s up-to-date. For a free home inventory list, go to oid.ok.gov. 0AGE $ECEMBER 3ENIOR .EWS AND ,IVING /KLAHOMA WWWSENIORNEWSANDLIVINGCOM #/--5.)49 Caring for Miracles
PHOTO BY 6ICKIE *ENKINS Taking time out for a picture is L-R is Tamara Crabtree (holding daughter) from Oklahoma Family Network, Sandy Green, RN, NICU (holding Ryan Dodd) and Kristie Dodd.
BY 6ICKIE *ENKINS The children were wearing their Halloween costumes; I recently attended the ballerinas, tigers, policemen, INTEGRIS Neonatal Intensive Care princesses, clowns and power Unit Reunion and Halloween rangers filled the room. There Party. This is just one of were balloons, games, a cake-walk the events sponsored by the and plenty of cookies, punch and Oklahoma Family Network and candy for everyone. Smiles were the NICU nurses for families that seen all around, from the children experience the NICU. The party to the nurses to the mothers and was for the babies that were fathers. taken care of in the NICU over I was introduced to Tamara the last 15 years. Some of those Crabtree. This was the second year tiny miracles are teenagers now! that Tamara had attended the What a meaningful time for Halloween party. Her daughter the parents, children and the was born pre-mature at Integris wonderful nurses that cared for Baptist hospital and was taken them at that time. The love that care of by the nurses in the was present in the room was NICU. At the time, Tamara felt overwhelming as the Halloween a need to do something for the party came alive as the children, parents with the babies born parents, families, nurses and premature. She began by taking doctors reminisced. It was obvious baskets of goodies to the parents; to see that many lives had been something for the moms and touched through the care of the NICU. See HALLOWEEN Page 12 3ENIOR .EWS AND ,IVING /KLAHOMA $ECEMBER 0AGE 0AGE $ECEMBER 3ENIOR .EWS AND ,IVING /KLAHOMA WWWSENIORNEWSANDLIVINGCOM my first child. I developed (!,,/7%%. Hellp Syndrome. (Hellp Syndrome #ONTINUED FROM 0AGE is a life-threatening pregnancy complication usually considered to something for their baby. “It has be a variant of preeclampsia. Both grown quite a bit since then,” conditions usually occur during Tamara says. “We try to have the late stages of pregnancy or A lightning bolt generates special events throughout the sometimes after childbirth.) Pretty temperatures five times hotter year. Our next one will be a much the cure for me was to than those found at the sun’s Christmas party for the babies deliver my baby. My son, Ryan surface! that are being taken care of in was delivered at 23 weeks. He A violin contains about 70 NICU,” she adds. weighed 1 lb.1 ounce, staying in According to the Oklahoma NICU for 111 days,” she said. separate pieces of wood! Family Network, a Christmas “That was the roughest thing that Almost half the newspapers party will be sponsored here at I have ever gone through. I was in the world are published in the Integris Baptist Medical Center. here at the hospital every day. United States and Canada! The special event, Baby’s 1st It was such an emotional time Christmas, will be for families who and being here at the reunion are experiencing NICU during and seeing the nurses that cared the Christmas Season. We believe for Ryan is so special. The care that a family’s 1st Christmas is a that was given to him meant special event especially for families everything to me,” she added. who are on the NICU path, and “The staff, doctors and nurses should be given a chance to always treated me with the honor their baby’s 1st Christmas utmost respect. I couldn’t have regardless of circumstances. asked for anything more. I am When I asked if anyone would so thankful for everyone here. like to share their story about Today, Ryan will be 3 years-old their baby and their care in in January. He is healthy and NICU, Kristie Dodd was happy to fine and he is my little miracle, share her experience. thanks to the wonderful care of “My name is Kristie Dodd the nurses here at Integris Baptist and I was pregnant with Medical Center.” 3ENIOR .EWS AND ,IVING /KLAHOMA $ECEMBER 0AGE 42!6%, %.4%24!).-%.4 Eating is an Adventure in Santa Fe 0HOTOGRAPHY AND 4EXT BY 4ERRY h4RAVELS WITH 4ERRYv :INN TZ AOLCOM
Having been to Santa Fe a meal with a Chocolate Molten number of times, it is always Cake of dark chocolate truffles, fun and relaxing to again visit dark rum cream glaze which those dining establishments that accents the desserts warmth made an impression over the and coolness. It is impressive years. This fall the eating when your server knows the adventure led me to sample term “Ice on the Pond” when several familiar popular gourmet ordering your extra cold, extra dining venues, and none dry Martini, which is served to mentioned here disappointed. perfection. While the décor has The Compound, http:// been renovated over the years, www.compoundrestaurant.com/ the hand painted side glass located just off of artist filled panels remains as the signature without a nighttime visit to La Canyon Road, is an all-time to this Santa Fe tradition. Your Cantina next to La Casa Sena favorite for the sophisticated high expectations for Santa Fe restaurant http://lacasasena.com/ palate. In an upscale adobe service, ambiance and dining . At the Cantina the waiters styled dining room, you can are always met at La Fonda. treat you, between serving food succumb to the temptations of; Be sure and take time to visit courses and beverages, with a Stacked Salad of Romaine, the shops at La Fonda and their favorite contemporary and Tomato, Ham, Blue Cheese and the outside entrance to the top Broadway styled songs. Many of Hard Cooked Taos eggs with fashions of Rocky Gorman. the talented singers are bidding Avocado Ranch Dressing topped If you have not discovered their time here, saving their with Free Range Chicken. If the surprising and intimate money before jumping into the your luncheon appetite is not atmosphere of Santacafe, http:/ Broadway pool of performers. quenched, for dessert you might /santacafe.com/ you are missing Feel free to order a Mexican try the Bittersweet Chocolate a treat. Here inside white adobe, styled dinner, or just a beverage Marquis of Pistachio Gelato, small dining areas, complete with their chips and dip. Apricot Pistachio; or the Orange with a hint of Georgia O’Keeffe The congenial atmosphere, the Olive Oil Cake of Fig Jam, styled decor, you will find prompt and friendly service Lemon Curd and Crème Fraiche. the best fresh Chimayo Red is a fitting farewell to the Your evening plans might Chile onion rings available enchantment that is Santa Fe. include a return to the anywhere. But this seeming Consider your Santa Fe visit Compound to enjoy a night simple appetizer is only a between high tourist times like good soup is an invitation cap or light supper at their prelude to an array of tasty the Santa Fe Opera Season or to a gourmet meal and the intimate bar. With seating only selections including: Blue Corn the Indian Market. In this Anasazi sweet potato soup about ten people, reservations Chicken Confit of enchiladas way you can be assured of was a perfect complement are recommended. of red and green chile, or obtaining your preferred dining to the autumn weather. The The La Fonda Hotel http:/ the healthy pan seared salmon reservation times, and Santa Fe Buffalo Empanada over an /www.lafondasantafe.com/la- roasted with fingerling potatoes will have a more accessible feel Avocado Mouse is personally plazuela holds many historic over a kale and spinach lime and friendliness. recommended as is the adventurous tales due to its cream. It’s known during high Editor’s Note: Terry Zinn fashionable crusted Salmon with early Santa Fe incarnation, but season to have one of the has visited Santa Fe many times baby beets, parsnips in a the restaurant, La Plazuela, best outdoor patios for celebrity over the years and is a past tamarind sauce. For dessert, has been a long time favorite sightings. President of the International you can play like a child with for its casual, attentive, and While the Rosewood Inn Food Wine and Travel Writers the Fried Ice Cream reminiscent never disappointing selections. of the Anasazi has undergone Association of an outdoor campfire s’more. Your skeletons might include: a dining room renovation, to You can’t leave Santa Fe a spinach salad with grilled open up the bar for casual hazel nuts, with gluten free tequila tastings and encourage prosciutto bathed in a cranberry conversation, the restaurant vinaigrette. Your entre might be retains its elegant atmosphere -R 4ERRY :INN 4RAVEL %DITOR the Alaska Silver Salmon with and gourmet menu. You might 0AST 0RESIDENT )NTERNATIONAL &OOD 7INE AND 4RAVEL 7RITERS !SSOCIATION lemon cilantro butter sauce, or start off your evening with a HTTPREALTRAVELADVENTURESCOMAUTHORZINN sweet and buttery hearty pork Kettle One Citron Pomegranate HTTPWWWEXAMINERCOMTRAVEL IN OKLAHOMA CITYTERRY ZINN tenderloins with pineapple glaze Martini, or a selection from one WWWSENIORNEWSANDLIVINGCOM WWWMARTINITRAVELSCOM and papaya vinaigrette. Top the of their fine wines. A flavorful 0AGE $ECEMBER 3ENIOR .EWS AND ,IVING /KLAHOMA WWWSENIORNEWSANDLIVINGCOM
CROSSWORD CORNER Across 47-Across 34 Large grazer 1 Parlor action 61 __ Pie 36 Cowardly Lion player 5 Dorm peer leaders: Abbr. 62 Great Basin native 37 Bouncy pace 8 Lidless container 63 Orkin victim 38 Missouri River city 14 Palm that produces 64 Pull out of the water 39 Sundance Kid’s purple berries 65 TD’s half-dozen girlfriend 15 CPR giver 66 Gorillas, e.g. 43 Boll eater 16 Missouri River city 44 Actor Will of “The Lego 17 “You don’t look a day Down Movie” over 29,” probably 1 Go through a lot of 45 Many diner dishes 19 One may use a tissues 46 Not working teleprompter 2 Tunnel effect 47 Stress-related ailment, 20 IM guffaw 3 Help from behind possibly 21 Hustled 4 Gather dust 48 Language on a longship 23 Points in math class 5 “I can __” 49 16th-century 24 Didn’t come to pass 6 __ curiae: friend of the circumnavigator 28 Chorus for the villain court 50 Turn out 29 “Dang!” 7 Tough to climb 54 Prepare for a shot 30 Fellow 8 Nav. noncom 55 Song and dance 31 Drink with sushi 9 Word before base or ball 57 Former Abbey Road 32 Cow or sow 10 Kingdoms Studios owner 35 Flooring phrase 11 Skywalker associate, 58 “GoodFellas” boss 40 Promos familiarly 60 IRA suggester 41 General organization? 12 Monastic garment 42 Tetra holder 13 Inducing the willies 43 Reining word 18 Sea eagles 44 “Given the 22 Kitchen dweller of song circumstances ...” 25 Spanish 101 verb 47 So as not to be noticed 26 Cook quickly, in a way 51 Stories of the ages 27 Half-note feature 52 Invalidate 28 Obey 53 Vacation destination 30 Campus no. !NSWERS ON PAGE 56 Wanted badly 31 Farm home 59 Device for exposing the 32 Unit between levels end of 17-, 24-, 35- or 33 Prince in “Frozen” c)2015 TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC. Assuring Safety in a Power Outage The recent ice storms in the state have left a significant number of Oklahomans without power for hours and even days. The Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) reminds those affected by a power outage to be mindful of safe practices to prevent illness and injury. Food Safety OSDH recommends the following guidelines for refrigerated and frozen foods to citizens or food establishments which have been without power for more than four hours: · Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible. · Discard any potentially hazardous foods such as meats, eggs, dairy products and leftovers when the power has been off for more than four hours. When in doubt, throw it out. · Frozen foods in a freezer can normally be kept up to 48 hours without power. A frozen product that has thawed should not be refrozen—it should be used immediately or thrown away. Water Safety: Residents in rural areas may also be without water during a power outage. If the safety of the water is not known, it is recommended to vigorously boil the water for at least one minute to prevent potential waterborne illnesses. Safe water would include store- bought bottled water, or uninterrupted city water. Untreated water should not be used to prepare foods, wash hands or brush teeth. Heat Safety: It’s important to use caution when heating a home with a fireplace, space heater or wood stove, using them only when they are properly vented. Never use generators, grills, camp stoves, or similar devices inside the house, in basements, in garages or near windows. Don’t use gas appliances such as an oven, range or clothes dryer to heat your home. Improper use of such devices can lead to carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. 3ENIOR .EWS AND ,IVING /KLAHOMA $ECEMBER 0AGE
Which president has been your favorite over the past years and why? Fountain Brook Assisted “I liked Clinton and “I liked Kennedy. He “I liked Lincoln and “ I would say Roosevelt because was nice.” Reagan.” Roosevelt has been they were both good the best president presidents.” we ever had.”
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Pleasant Hill Dr., Guthrie, OK 73044 405-631-5100 Yukon, OK 73099 405-577-2444 405-293-9606 TO ADVERTISE 3ENIOR .EWS AND ,IVING /KLAHOMA $ECEMBER 0AGE 0AGE $ECEMBER 3ENIOR .EWS AND ,IVING /KLAHOMA WWWSENIORNEWSANDLIVINGCOM Broom Hilda !RE YOU READING THIS 3O ARE MORE THAN 3ENIORS THROUGHOUT THE 3TATE #ALL Animal Crackers TO ADVERTISE Sunbeam Family Services Gasoline Alley and Catholic Charities OKC Help Bring Christmas to Families Sunbeam Family Services and Catholic Charities Oklahoma City are partnering to bring A Very Giving Christmas, a Christmas store, for local families in need, December 16-20, 2015. The store, St. Nick’s Shoppe, will be located at Catholic Charities, 1501 N. Classen Boulevard, directly across the street from Sunbeam Family Services. Individuals selected through Sunbeam Family Services and Catholic Charities will have the opportunity to shop for new items for their families at no cost. Donors and volunteers will create a warm shopping experience and extend the season’s joy and excitement to more than 500 families, families who otherwise would not be able buy presents for their children. “We are thrilled to be partnering alongside Catholic Charities to provide hundreds of Oklahoma City families a holiday season filled with joy, lightening the financial burden often placed on them during the gift-giving season,” said Jim Priest, CEO of Sunbeam Family Services. “We can accomplish so much more when we work together as a community, and we’re thankful for the support of our volunteers and donors who will make St. Nick’s Shoppe come to life.” Patrick J. Raglow, Catholic Charities Executive Director said, “Our partnership with Sunbeam Family Services reflects the partnership we foster among our donors, volunteers and clients. A Very Giving Christmas is about relationship and participating fully in the spirit of the season. Working with Sunbeam Family Services expands the impact and reach of this program across the board. It’s a great partnership for a great cause.” The community can help by stocking the store by making a donation or by purchasing new gift items for children of all ages and their parents and delivering them unwrapped and with tags attached to Catholic Charities December 6-8. Visit the wish list at www.AVeryGivingChristmas.org or call 405.609.8994. Volunteer opportunities for individuals, families and groups are also available and will include decorating St. Nick’s Shoppe, greeting families, helping families select their gifts or wrapping gifts. Visit www.AVeryGivingChristimas.org to sign up to volunteer, or call 405.609.1755. 3ENIOR .EWS AND ,IVING /KLAHOMA $ECEMBER 0AGE Fighting Flu The Natural Way Supplements May Help Keep Sniffling, Sneezing Symptoms at Bay
BY .AUM "URMAN Cold and flu season has arrived, always specify flu as the cause. which means the potential could be But there’s little doubt that flu high for lots of sniffling co-workers seasons can be severe. The CDC, for and children who need to stay home example, reported that over a period from school. of 30 years, between 1976 and 2006, Vaccinations help many people estimates of flu-associated deaths in stave off the flu, but a number of the United States ranged from a low Americans also try an alternative of about 3,000 to a high of about approach, using nutritional 49,000 people. Some people, such supplements in their efforts to stay as older people, young children, healthy. pregnant women, and people with “Certain herbs, mushroom extracts certain health conditions, are at high and other natural compounds risk for serious flu complications. contain powerful antiviral properties,” In addition to vaccines, the says Naum Burman, the founder CDC suggests several preventive and researcher for BioLab Rx measures, such as washing your (www.biolabrx.com), a dietary hands frequently, keeping a distance supplement company. from those who are ill and staying “Combine them together and home yourself if possible when you you can get a natural boost to your are sick. immune system.” Burman says that supplements Such over-the-counter products also provide an extra measure of as BioLab Rx’s Immune Super Plus prevention, and plenty of people do that by increasing the body’s apparently agree. The Nutrition natural defense cells, which are Business Journal has reported that crucial to the body’s defense against Americans spend well over $1 billion bacterial and viral infection. a year on supplements to help boost “The body’s own immune system immunity and ward off cold and is probably our best defense,” flu. Burman says. “But illness, stress, Burman, originally from Europe, medical therapies, diet and lack essentially was born into his interest of sleep can all compromise our in maintaining health through immune system. That’s why it can nature. He grew up in a family help to give the immune system a where herbs and natural cures were boost.” common and knowledge of herbs He notes that it’s always and their use was the norm. important to check the ingredients, As an adult, Burman continued instructions and warnings for his research, traveling through any over-the-counter supplement. Asian, European and Middle Eastern Immune Super Plus, for example, is countries so he could gather herbal only for adults 18 and older and knowledge from cultures around the shouldn’t be taken by pregnant or world. nursing women. Armed with that knowledge, The flu season routinely takes a he founded BioLab Rx, which also toll on Americans. According to the produces natural products for hair Centers for Disease Control: loss, joint pain, migraine headaches • The timing of flu is and other conditions or ailments. unpredictable and can vary in “I thought this would be a different parts of the country and good way to combine the wisdom from season to season. Most seasonal of the ages with today’s newest flu activity typically occurs between technology,” he says. October and May. Flu activity most commonly peaks in the United States Naum Burman is founder of between December and February. and researcher for BioLab Rx • It’s estimated that each year an (www.biolabrx.com), a dietary supplement average of 5 percent to 20 percent company. Burman, originally from of the U.S. population gets the flu Europe, grew up in a family where and more than 200,000 people are herbs and natural cures were usual hospitalized from seasonal flu-related and knowledge of herbs and their use complications. was the norm. He also spent years • Estimating the number of traveling through Asian, European and flu-related deaths can be difficult Middle Eastern countries, gathering because death certificates don’t herbal knowledge.