LIFE's Vintage Magazine - April 2024

20 Remember These Oklahoma Weather Events?

Oklahoma has experienced more natural disasters than any other state in the last 20 years, a recent study confirms.

BY RODNEY ECHOHAWK & DEE DUREN

24 Eye of the Storm

Meet two local storm chasers who face down severe weather on land and in the sky to help keep our communities safe.

BY JOEY MECHELLE FARQU É

Shelf cloud south of Laverne, Oklahoma

Photo courtesy of Ben Holcomb, storm chaser benholcomb.com

26 Strange Weather Phenomena

Mother Nature produces awe-inspiring — and just plain odd — weather formations. Here’s a guide to some of her stranger “offspring.”

BY JULIE WENGER WATSON

28 Navigating Power Outages

Power outages due to severe weather can be more than just inconvenient, especially for those who use essential medical equipment.

BY KAREN SZABO

29 Reader Survey

We want to hear from you! Fill out the reader survey on p. 29 to be entered into a prize drawing.

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Photo by Christopher Bryan, christopherbryan.studio

Eileen Bradshaw President and CEO LIFE Senior Services, LIFE PACE, Vintage Housing eileen.bradshaw@LIFEseniorservices.org

Letter From Eileen

Dear Vintage Reader,

Poet T.S. Eliot famously lamented “April is the cruelest month,” but I beg to differ. I love April. Blooms abound, the local garden festivals happen, and we can be outside without being too hot or too cold — perfect for a weather Goldilocks like me! This issue explores Oklahoma’s wild weather in-depth and explains some things I have always been curious about.

This April is particularly exciting because our new Roma Berry Center for Seniors will be open and in full swing. This campus will bring together a PACE clinic, an Adult Day Health Center, and an Active Senior Center on 9 acres just northeast of 51st and Sheridan. Through the generosity of Ruth Nelson, LIFE was able to purchase a 39,000-square-foot former Tulsa Public School site. It wasn’t much to look at, but we saw potential.

Vol. 38, No. 10

EILEEN BRADSHAW

President & CEO of LIFE Senior Services, LIFE PACE & Vintage Housing

KELLY KIRCHHOFF

Senior Director of Communications

DEE DUREN Managing Editor dduren@LIFEseniorservices.org

BERNIE DORNBLASER Advertising Director bdornblaser@LIFEseniorservices.org

(918) 664-9000 www.LIFEseniorservices.org

Through the largesse of many foundations, individuals, and companies, we raised the funds to renovate the school building and erect a 10,000-squarefoot activity center to accommodate sports like pickleball and basketball. The architects at Narrate were able to see beyond what was and create beautiful modern spaces that support seniors in a variety of ways. It is truly so beautiful and so practical.

The school building now hosts a state-of-the-art clinic for our PACE program, including a physical therapy space. The adult day health wing is secure, calm, and bright, accommodating a variety of individual needs. The new setting will allow for more tailored programming.

The Active Senior Center has “hangout space” for games and cards and conversation. We have a fitness room, a place for music lessons, an art studio, and a fabulous old-school gymnasium. The stage will be great for performances, and the gym will be perfect for line dancing and movies. The areas round out with a place for volunteers to meet and a beautiful teaching kitchen.

I really hope you will come by for a look and let us show you around. I am so excited about this facility and how it will improve our ability to connect with people in meaningful ways. No disrespect to Mr. Eliot, but this April is the most exciting of months!

LEAH WEIGLE Graphic Designer

JULIE ALEXANDER Assistant Editor

jalexander@LIFEseniorservices.org

CAROL CARTER Copy Editor

DICK MCCANDLESS STAN DIACON Community Distribution

LIFE’s Vintage Magazine accepts advertising to defray the cost of production and distribution, and appreciates the support of its advertisers. The publisher does not specifically endorse advertisers or their products or services. LIFE’s Vintage Magazine reserves the right to refuse advertising. Rates are available upon request by calling (918) 664-9000.

© LIFE’s Vintage Magazine and LIFE Senior Services, Inc., 2024. All rights reserved. Reproduction without consent of the publisher is prohibited.

Volume 38, Issue 10, April 2024

LIFE’s Vintage Magazine (ISSN 2168-8494) (USPS 18320) is published monthly by LIFE Senior Services.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to LIFE’S VINTAGE MAGAZINE 5950 E. 31st St., Tulsa, OK 74135.

Periodicals postage paid at Tulsa, OK.

New Historical Marker Dedicated

A bronze marker honoring Washington Irving will be dedicated at the Keystone Ancient Forest’s Irv and Sharna Frank Visitor Center this month. Essayist and diplomat Irving camped in the area on October 12, 1832, as described in his 1835 journal, “A Tour on the Prairies.” The marker will later be placed on the Frank Trail Bluff overlooking his campsite, according to the Reverend John Robinson Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Keystone Ancient Forest Visitor Center

160 Ancient Forest Dr. • Sand Springs

Thursday, April 18 at 11 a.m.

Broken Arrow Seniors Holds Resource and Health Fair

The Broken Arrow Senior Center is holding its 32nd Annual Senior Resource & Health Fair. This free event is to benefit those 55 and over, and their families, in Broken Arrow and surrounding areas. Seniors can learn about healthcare options, aging in place, local leisure choices, city resources, Medicare supplements, healthy aging, or independent living options. There will be more than 100 informational booths onsite in addition to free basic health screenings.

Central Park Community Center

1500 S. Main St. • Broken Arrow

Friday, April 26 • 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

For more information visit baseniors.org or call (918) 259-8377.

Holocaust Commemoration Open to the Public

Some 245,000 Holocaust survivors are still alive, but many of them were very young children during World War II. The few who have firsthand memories of the event will soon be gone. Author Danny M. Cohen, Ph.D., a professor at Northwestern University and a specialist in human rights education, will speak on “Talking With Ghosts: the Possible Futures of Holocaust Memory,” at this year’s Interfaith Holocaust Commemoration presented on Thursday, May 9, by the Council for Holocaust Education of the Jewish Federation of Tulsa.

The theme of the commemoration is “Standing at the Threshold: Shaping the Future for Holocaust Education.” A string quartet will play the musical meditation, “The Holocaust Suite,” composed by former Tulsan Rick McKee. Registration is required.

Congregation B’nai Emunah

1719 S. Owasso Ave. • Tulsa

Thursday, May 9 at 7 p.m. Register at jewishtulsa.org/yomhashoah2024

Discussing Death & Dying

Hospice of Green Country is hosting “Death Cafés” where people can come together and share their thoughts about the end of life. Each month will have a discussion topic, and light refreshments will be provided. On April 11, the topic will be Death and Funerals and the options involved in planning. On May 9, the topic is Hospice 101. The community can look forward to future topics like Death and Estrangement, Pets & Death: Planning for Your Animal Companion, Death Planning in the Digital Age, Caregiver Resources, and more. The cafés are free and open to the public.

Hospice of Green Country

3501 S. Yale Ave. • Tulsa

April 11 & May 9 • 6 to 7:30 p.m.

RSVP to (918) 747-2273 for a reminder text

High Synagogue in Krakow

To

To

BERNIE

LIFE Senior Services Community Education

All classes are at Legacy Plaza East Conference Center, 5330 E. 31st St. in Tulsa, unless otherwise noted.

Community Education

Healthcare Decisions Day

Tuesday, April 16 • Noon – 1 p.m.

Healthcare Decisions Day is an opportunity to pause, think about your healthcare wishes, and act to ensure your wishes are known should you ever be unable to communicate them. Join us as experts discuss the Oklahoma Advance Directive for Healthcare. They will walk you through things to consider and be available to answer questions. Each attendee will receive an advance directive form and resources to help plan for and navigate serious illness. Make reservations online at Clarehouse.org or by calling (918) 664-9000, ext. 1181.

Fractured Reality: Understanding Osteoporosis & Arthritis with Dr. Ken Piper

Thursday, April 18 • 2 – 3 p.m.

Bones and joints are always connected. Join Dr. Ken Piper as he enlightens us on osteoporosis and arthritis, including how to strengthen our bones. Bring your questions and concerns. To register, go to LIFEseniorservices.org and click on the Resources tab or call (918) 664-9000, ext. 1181.

Dealing with Dementia Workshop

Saturday, April 27 • 9 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

This evidence-based program from the Rosalynn Carter Institute on Caregiving was developed to help caregivers of loved ones with dementia effectively find and utilize information quickly. The class covers an overview of dementia and offers practical, hands-on help dealing with the many facets of caring for someone with the disease. Bring a sack lunch. Class size is limited. To register, go to LIFEseniorservices.org and click on the Resources tab or call (918) 664-9000, ext. 1181.

WaterWorks artist and instructor Yusuf Etudaiye

WaterWorks Art Center to Hold Open House

Let Your Artist Out to Play April 13

WaterWorks Art Center, a hidden gem among Tulsa parks, is holding an open house this month. The community art studio is located in what was Tulsa’s first water treatment plant at Newblock Park just west of downtown. The center offers a variety of classes for adults and children and serves as a community gathering place for local artists to hone their crafts. Artists and students can also reserve studio space and access workspace, tools, and equipment.

WaterWorks offers classes including pottery, painting, jewelry making, drawing, photography, and weaving. The center is holding an open house from 1 – 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 13. Visitors can meet the instructors, experience art demonstrations in several media, visit the studios, and explore the historic building. The Spring 2024 catalog of classes is available at waterworksartcenter.com/program-guides. Most classes are open to anyone regardless of experience though some are for more experienced artists.

“Enrollment opens for our popular WaterWorks Summer Art Camp on April 13, and we thought an open house featuring demonstrations of some of the art classes and workshops we provide would be fun and of interest to the community,” said Executive Director Lee Anne Zeigler.

“Join us for light refreshments and enjoy artisans in our clay, jewelry, weaving, and painting studios!”

On the first Wednesday of each month, WaterWorks and the Alzheimer’s Association host “Drawing on Memories,” a free program designed for individuals with early-stage Alzheimer’s and dementia. The main goal is to provide an opportunity for people with dementia to use motor skills and non-linear communication to create art in a supportive environment. Class size is limited. Upcoming dates are April 3 and May 1, and the program will resume in the fall. WaterWorks is located at 1710 Charles Page Blvd. To reserve a spot, call WaterWorks at (918) 596-2440.

Become a Volunteer Get Involved Volunteer for LIFE

Oxley Nature Center

If you love communing with nature, Oxley Nature Center is looking for volunteer naturalists to guide field trips, act as weekend ambassadors, greet visitors at the Interpretive Center, or work as a member of the trail maintenance crew. With nearly nine miles of trails and 800 acres to explore, Oxley is one of Tulsa’s hidden gems. Weekly educational classes include Oxley Seedlings for school-aged children, birding classes, and the popular Full Moon Walk. Training is provided for volunteers.

For more information visit oxleynaturecenter.org or call (918) 596-9054.

City of Tulsa

The Great Clean-Up

To celebrate Earth Month in April, Tulsans can participate in The Great Tulsa Clean-Up. This month-long event encourages groups of friends, coworkers, or neighbors to get involved in helping to preserve Tulsa’s natural beauty. Participants can choose a time, date, and location for the clean-up at cityoftulsa.org under the residents tab. The city has chosen 29 locations that volunteers can choose from or you can choose your own location by emailing stormwaterquality@cityoftulsa.org. The city will loan volunteers supplies for the cleanup. Volunteers also receive a free T-shirt.

For more information call (918) 591-4325 or visit cityoftulsa.org.

Gathering Place

Join the team of volunteers at Gathering Place. With spring in full swing, there are a lot of volunteer positions at the park including guest services, docents, horticulture, the Cabinet of Wonder, the mobile library, events, and hospitality. Events include concerts, movie nights, and park tours. There are roles for individuals or groups of volunteers.

For more information about volunteering at Gathering Place email volunteer@gatheringplace.org or call (918) 779-1000.

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By Joan Hutchings, Volunteer Coordinator

Volunteers Make it Happen

LIFE Volunteers Make Big Impact

April is National Volunteer Appreciation Month, an opportunity to honor the time, effort, dedication, and enthusiasm volunteers bring to a cause. LIFE Senior Services volunteer program, Volunteer for LIFE, recruits and manages a small army of volunteers, all over the age of 55.

In 2023, they gave over 90,000 hours to nonprofit organizations throughout northeastern Oklahoma. Their gift of time and service makes a positive impact on those in need. LIFE’s Give 5 program is a quarterly class designed to educate local retirees about the many volunteer opportunities in the area.

Volunteers are an integral part of LIFE Senior Services. Several programs rely on volunteers

to assist older adults with a variety of services. LIFE’s Medicare and Tax Assistance Program uses volunteers to work with individuals making sure they receive the best health benefits available and providing no-cost tax preparation.

The Holiday Project supplies gifts to 1,500 local seniors who receive LIFE’s services. This special project is dependent on volunteers to assist with providing and organizing the gifts for distribution. Volunteers also serve as facilitators in caregiver support groups, answer phones, serve on boards and committees … the list goes on and on. The mission of LIFE Senior Services is to promote and preserve independence for seniors. Volunteers make it happen.

Would you like more information about LIFE's volunteer opportunities?

Friday, June 14

TWO-THOUSAND TWENTY-FOUR

SIX PM

Cox Business Convention Center

ONE-HUNDRED CIVIC CENTER TULSA

COMPLIMENTARY VALET COCKTAIL ATTIRE

TICKET & SPONSOR INFORMATION

LIFE EDU

Silver Linings

Silver Linings is a collection of Facebook videos that features segments previewing upcoming seminars, Crafting with Roxanne and the Caregiver Tool Belt. Segments are posted on the dates below.

Advance Care Directives

Wednesday, April 10

Dr. Jennifer Clark introduces us to Advance Care Directives ahead of the Healthcare Decisions Day seminar on April 16. See page 10 for more information about the seminar.

Crafting with Roxanne

Wednesday, April 17

Join Roxanne to make a paw print wreath. You will need a heart-shaped wire wreath form, four 8-inch round wire wreath forms, brown or tan chunky chenille yarn, hot glue, pipe cleaner or plant wire, checked or burlap ribbon for making a bow in your choice of color, and an animal-shaped sign for the middle of the wreath.

Caregiver Tool Belt: Long-Term Care Options

Wednesday, April 24

LIFE’s Caregiver Support Specialist Erin Powell continues her Caregiver Tool Belt series with an overview of the types of long-term care options available in the Tulsa area.

For more information, call Carol Carter at (918) 664-9000, ext. 1219 or visit www.LIFEseniorservices.org.

Fabulous Flavors

Benefits of Growing Herbs

Herbs grown indoors take minimal effort and provide many health benefits. A healthy salt replacement in recipes, they can vastly improve the flavor of your foods, boost your immune system, detoxify your body, and help with common colds, digestion, headaches, and stress. An indoor herb garden saves money by eliminating the cost of fresh or dried herbs at the grocery store. There is less food waste when using herbs from your garden, and they are most flavorful when freshly picked.

Focus on growing a few herbs you’ll use regularly. The easiest ones to grow indoors are basil, chives, cilantro, oregano, parsley, rosemary, and thyme. They need full sun, so place them by a south or southwest-facing window in direct sunlight. Supplement natural light with an LED grow light as needed to give your herbs a daily total of 12 to 14 hours of light. A quarter-clockwise turn once a week will equally expose all sides of the plants to sunlight.

Herbs thrive in temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees. During winter, don’t let the leaves touch the windows. When watering them, insert a finger into the soil up to your first knuckle. If the soil feels dry, it’s time to water; if it feels moist, hold off for another day or so and check again. Overwatering can be harmful to most plants.

Plant herbs in plastic, glazed ceramic, or terra cotta containers with drainage holes. Terra cotta planters are usually the most successful because they are porous and breathable. Potting soil designed for cacti and succulents is ideal for growing herbs because it allows water to pass through easily. Label your herbs to keep them straight until you become familiar with their appearance.

When it’s time to harvest, pinch them off or cut a few sprigs with scissors. Avoid removing more than a quarter of the plant at a time so the plant isn’t stressed.

Expand Your Palate

Healthy Benefits of Asparagus & Potatoes

Potatoes are a root vegetable with a lot to offer nutritionally. They’re an excellent source of potassium — important for its role in controlling hypertension. They also have vitamin C, a potent antioxidant. Of course, potatoes have fiber which is great for digestion and weight loss.

Asparagus is a super source of potassium, vitamins A, C, and K, folate, and fiber. The vegetable also has antioxidants that help fight cancer. It boasts both types of fiber, soluble and insoluble, aiding digestion and weight loss.

PEPPERMINT

Peppermint can be used in teas to boost mood, improve focus, ease nausea, and help digestion.

OREGANO

Oregano is full of antioxidants and is known for being an immune booster, an antifungal, and an antibacterial.

CILANTRO

Cilantro is a great herb that may have a positive effect on reducing heavy metal levels in the body and brain.

Cleaning & Preparing ...

POTATOES

Wash potatoes just before cooking them. Remove sprouts, cut away any green areas, and peel if needed. Remember, the skin is edible and contains a lot of fiber, so leave it on if you can. Potatoes can be baked or boiled for mashed potatoes or potato salad. French fries contain the nutrients and fiber of the potato, with about five times more calories — so limit your intake of these.

Now In Season

Elegant asparagus, with green, white, and purple varieties, tastes best in the spring. Sturdy potatoes are also ready for harvest.

ASPARAGUS

Wash asparagus stems and trim or snap off the white, woody ends. This is easy; just bend the stalk of the asparagus and it will snap exactly where it should. Asparagus can be served whole or cut into smaller pieces. It can be roasted, sautéed, steamed, or stir-fried. To cook asparagus in the microwave, place it in a microwave-safe dish with about ¼ cup of water and heat for four to seven minutes or until tender. Perfectly cooked asparagus should be crisp and bright green; overcooking will result in the loss of flavor and nutrients.

Easy Asparagus Casserole

Recipe courtesy of Mom’s Dish

Ingredients:

2 lbs. asparagus

2 cups heavy cream

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 & ½ teaspoons garlic powder with parsley

1 & ½ cups grated parmesan cheese

4 garlic cloves, minced

½ cup panko crumbs

Directions:

1. In a heavy-bottom pan, combine the butter with the heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.

2. Stir in 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese, garlic parsley powder, and minced garlic. Stir while simmering, until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

3. Discard the rough edges from the asparagus stalks. Next, cut asparagus into 2-inch pieces.

4. Spread the asparagus evenly across a baking pan. Pour the sauce over the asparagus.

5. Sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese and panko crumbs on top.

6. Bake at 450 degrees F for about 15 minutes or until the asparagus is tender.

Help for Seasonal Allergies

Allergies Have You Down? Read This!

Fitness Move of the Month

Pelvic Tilt

Courtesy Katie Cody LIFE PACE registered physical therapist

Practical Tips for Seasonal Allergies

If you’re struggling with seasonal allergies, try these steps to see if they help.

1. Wear a hat or scarf and sunglasses while outside. Allergens can settle on your hair and are blown into your eyes.

2. Change clothes after coming home in the evening and shower at night during allergy season.

3. Nasal irrigation using a ready-made kit or homemade solution may help ease congestion. Mix 1 quart of sterile water, 1.5 teaspoons of canning salt, and 1 teaspoon of baking soda. Clean the irrigation device every time you use it.

4. Use an air purifier with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter in your bedroom and clean floors often with a vacuum cleaner that has a HEPA filter.

5. Close doors and windows at night if possible or any time pollen counts are high.

6. Wear a face mask while outside, especially while working in the yard.

Source: Mayoclinic.org

Aaachooo!

Red-rimmed eyes, raspy breath, and a nose that’s either stopped up or runs like a faucet. Those are a few symptoms of the seasonal allergies that descend upon us this time of year. It’s finally warm enough to enjoy the great outdoors, but doing so can bring discomfort to allergy sufferers.

“Tulsa is a beautiful place, and the same things that make it beautiful put you at high risk for allergens,” said Dr. Renetta Reeves. Dr. Reeves is the medical director of LIFE PACE, a program of all-inclusive care for older adults at risk of losing their independence due to health conditions.

“An allergic reaction is your immune system responding to an invader, something foreign that shouldn’t be there. Seasonal allergies are often caused by irritants we inhale and our immune system goes to war with them,” she said.

1 2 3 4

Lie on your back with knees bent and feet flat on the mat.

Engage your abdominal muscles to flatten your lower back to the floor as hips & pelvis rock back.

Hold for about 6 seconds while breathing smoothly.

Relax your stomach muscles. Repeat 8 to 12 times to ease low back pain.

The immune system sends out histamines that cause blood vessels to expand, triggering congestion and sneezing. Other common reactions include red eyes, asthma, or hives. Allergies to things like dust mites or mold may last year-round. More severe allergies are the kinds that result from a reaction to certain foods, medications, or toxins like insect stings.

“Seasonal allergies are not life-threatening, but they can certainly make you miserable,” Dr. Reeves said. “They decrease your quality of life.”

Though a sufferer’s first reaction may be to reach for an antihistamine, Dr. Reeves cautions older adults against relying on those medications. “We really discourage some antihistamines like Benadryl because of the sedation they cause,” she said. Sedating antihistamines can also cause blurred vision, dry mouth and skin, flushing, confusion, and overheating.

Even some of the non-sedating antihistamines like Claritin and Zyrtec can be a concern due to possible interaction with prescription medications, according to the doctor. Risks increase with the number of prescriptions the allergy sufferer already takes.

Dr. Reeves recommends using over-the-counter saline nasal sprays and steroid nasal sprays as a first-line of defense, especially for older adults. Even those remedies can cause issues like nose bleeds, if used too long. “Use any medication for the briefest amount of time you can,” she advised.

Dr. Reeves recommends seeing a doctor if you suspect a sinus infection, run a fever, or have wheezing and shortness of breath. Always tell your doctor about any nonprescription drugs you take, including herbal remedies. With that information, your doctor can check to see if there are any adverse reactions caused by medication interactions.

“If conservative methods are not managing your symptoms and you’re just miserable, go to an allergist and get tested. Remember that’s an option,” she urged.

Some older adults may find that the severity of allergic reactions they’ve experienced for years begins to decrease with age. That reduced response takes place because the immune system weakens as we age and doesn’t respond as strongly to allergens. Hives may not itch as much as they once did, for example.

On the other hand, some of her patients have been surprised when they experience allergies for the first time later in life. “You can continue to develop a new allergy at any time,” she said. “Maybe you’ve moved to live closer to family and developed allergies at the new location.”

Finally, Dr. Reeves advises seasonal allergy sufferers to remember to make use of their pharmacist. “They’re right there as you get medication, and they have a lot of knowledge. I really wish people would take advantage of their pharmacist’s skills and knowledge more.”

If you’d like to learn more about the LIFE PACE program Dr. Reeves directs, visit LIFEPACE.org or call (918) 938-7653. Serving the greater Tulsa community since 2015, the LIFE PACE program is designed for seniors who wish to remain independent in their own homes. PACE offers a full range of services to support an independent life for older adults, including transportation, medications, and home care.

By Erin Powell, LPC, ATR-BC, Caregiver Support Specialist

Explore Long-Term Care Options

Secure the Future for Your Loved One

When the home environment is no longer the best care environment for your loved one — whether that is due to physical limitations, cognitive concerns, or because the care needed surpasses the available support — it’s time to consider long-term care options.

INDEPENDENT SENIOR HOUSING

Independent living (IL) communities range from apartment complexes that aren’t exclusively for seniors but offer senior-friendly amenities, to senior-only facilities that provide all-inclusive amenities like meals, activities, housekeeping, laundry, and transportation. Generally, the expectation is that seniors living in these communities can care for themselves. Costs vary

with the services provided. Some IL housing options are subsidized for lower-income seniors, but waitlists for these options can be long.

ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITIES

Most assisted living (AL) communities are like an apartment complex but offer significant supportive services such as medication management, meals, housekeeping, linen services, as well as transportation services to help residents maintain as much independence as possible. Assisted living is primarily private pay — and for most folks, the price tag may be daunting.

Most AL communities take long-term care (LTC) insurance. For lower-income seniors, a

small number of ALs are beginning to accept the ADvantage Medicaid Waiver, though be prepared for a waitlist.

Veterans may be eligible for the Aid and Attendance benefit which could help with the cost of AL. Those benefits come through the Veteran’s Benefits Administration as opposed to the Veteran’s Administration (VA).

Some AL facilities have a unit within their larger community for memory care or cater specifically to those who have cognitive impairment. At the minimum, this means there are locked entrances and exits, but it can mean more — potentially a much higher level of care with bathing assistance and medication management (which may or may not have an additional cost), higher staffto-resident ratios, better training for staff in dementia care and communication, and facilities designed with dementia in mind. When looking at AL memory care, find out what “memory care” means at each facility. They are not all the same.

NURSING FACILITIES

Nursing facilities are what most people think of when they hear the term “long-term care.” A nursing facility provides 24-hour care and services, which will include a registered nurse on staff and in the building 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The vast majority of care, however, will be provided by certified nursing aides (CNAs).

Nursing facility services include medication management, meals, housekeeping, and laundry. Some provide limited transportation. Nursing homes may provide memory care and many provide short-term care rehabilitation, otherwise known as skilled nursing care. Skilled nursing care means more intensive nursing and therapy services that may be covered by Medicare for a limited number of days following hospitalizations.

Nursing facilities are costlier than ALs, but many accept Medicaid and some are contracted with the VA. Nearly all take LTC insurance. Nursing homes vary widely, and I cannot recommend strongly enough that you make visits to these facilities before choosing one and moving your loved one.

By Kathy Jones, Medicare

Tax Assistsance Program Manager

Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 Legislation Improves Access to Affordable Healthcare

The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 was signed into law on August 16, 2022. The law provides meaningful financial relief for millions of people with Medicare by strengthening the Medicare program and improving access to affordable medications and treatments.

IMPLEMENTED CHANGES

Beginning January 2023, Medicare beneficiaries began paying $35 for a 30-day supply of covered insulin medications under their prescription drug plan (Part D) or Medicare Advantage Plans. Beginning in July 2023, beneficiaries with Traditional (Original) Medicare who use insulin in an insulin pump also began receiving a 30-day supply of their covered insulin for $35. Medicare has reported a savings to four million seniors and other Medicare beneficiaries with diabetes.

In January 2023, adult vaccines, recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, became available at no cost for beneficiaries with a Part D plan. Drug plans began covering all commercially available vaccines, when reasonable and necessary to prevent illness, under Part D except when they are covered by Medicare Part B. Examples of covered vaccines under prescription drug coverage are vaccines for shingles, tetanus, and whooping cough. Examples of vaccines covered under Part B are flu, pneumonia, Hepatitis B (for individuals at high and intermediate risk), and COVID-19.

DRUG PRICE NEGOTIATIONS

Medicare can now negotiate prices directly with participating drug companies to improve access to innovative treatments for people with Medicare to lower beneficiaries’ costs. The negotiation process began in 2023, and the new prices will go into effect in 2026. The first 10 drugs selected for the first round of negotiations include treatments for diabetes, heart disease, and other illnesses.

Drug companies that raise their drug prices faster than the rate of inflation are now required to pay Medicare a rebate and potentially reduce the out-of-pocket costs to beneficiaries on Part D and Medicare Advantage Plans.

Some medications that received rebates fell under Medicare Part B benefits, which are subject to the Part B deductible of $240 and then a 20% coinsurance for Traditional Medicare and Medicare Advantage Plans. During the second and third quarters of 2023, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services reported that 63 medications under Part B had an adjusted coinsurance rate based on the inflation-adjusted payment amount. Beneficiaries on Traditional Medicare and Medicare Advantage Plans who took these medications may have experienced lower coinsurance amounts ranging from $1 to $449 per average dose.

Prescription Drugs

Prices for these 10 drugs are the first to be renegotiated under the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022. Medicare beneficiaries should see the price adjustments in 2026.

1. Farxiga – A treatment for diabetes, heart failure, and kidney failure

2. Eliquis – Used to prevent blood clots

3. Jardiance – Used to treat diabetes and heart failure

4. Xarelto – Used to prevent blood clots and reduce the risk of coronary or peripheral artery disease

5. Januvia – Used to treat diabetes

6. Entresto – A treatment for heart failure

7. Imbruvica – A blood cancer treatment

8. Stelara – Prescribed for psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis

9. Fiasp – A diabetes treatment

10. Novolog – Used to treat diabetes

The act also provides more assistance in affording Medicare prescription drug coverage for premiums and out-of-pocket drug costs by expanding the Low-Income Subsidy program — also called Extra Help — to people with earnings that are 150% of the poverty level. Under this program, Part D premiums, deductibles, and copayments are either reduced or eliminated. Medicare is currently in the process of detailing the improvements for Part D benefits for 2025 that will result in lower drug costs for millions with Medicare, capping prescription drug costs to $2,000 annually for beneficiaries with a Medicare Part D plan.

Resources: www.cms.gov

Remember These Weather Events? OKLAHOMA

Oklahoma leads the way in both severe weather and the technology used to protect the public during storms.

BY RODNEY ECHOHAWK & DEE DUREN

It’s a first-place finish no one wants to earn. Oklahomans have long known the state sits in the bullseye for severe weather and storms, and a 2023 study confirms it. Recoop, a multiperil disaster insurance company, analyzed 20 years of Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) data and concluded that during that period, Oklahoma residents have experienced the greatest volume of natural disasters in the nation.

“A staggering 52 disasters impacted more than 1.17 million Oklahoma residents since the year 2000, including severe storms, wildfires, tornadoes, and ice storms,” the study states.

Predicting and responding to severe weather threats is serious business for weather experts, emergency managers and responders, agricultural and forestry managers, school systems, event organizers, and business owners. Many Oklahomans have personal stories of loss due to severe weather or, at the least, of close brushes with the power of nature.

“At the NSSL, in observing, thunderstorms. and society to minimize thunderstorms

DANA Director of Administration’s

Photo courtesy of NOAA NSSL

Doppler radar, developed in Norman in the early 1970s

Phased array radar antenna

Events? OKLAHOMA

It’s no wonder that Oklahoma also leads the nation in the science of meteorology. From issuing the very first tornado forecast and warning in the nation in 1948 to developing the best radar system in the world, Oklahoma weather scientists have significantly advanced life-saving severe weather technology.

DaNa Carlis, Ph.D., is a research meteorologist and the new director of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) National Severe Storms Laboratory (NSSL) in Norman, Oklahoma. The facility is the only national laboratory solely focused on severe weather and the tools to predict and monitor it. Dr. Carlis is a third-generation Oklahoman, a Tulsa native, and the first African American to be named NOAA lab director.

NSSL, our mission is to be the world leader observing, understanding, and modeling severe We want to be able to equip forecasters society as a whole with the tools necessary minimize the impact of tornadoes and severe thunderstorms on lives and property.”

DANA CARLIS, PH.D.

the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Severe Storms Laboratory

“At the NSSL, our mission is to be the world leader in observing, understanding, and modeling severe thunderstorms,” said Dr. Carlis. “We want to be able to equip forecasters and society as a whole with the tools necessary to minimize the impact of tornadoes and severe thunderstorms on lives and property.”

The NSSL is only one of the weather research facilities at Norman’s National Weather Center (NWC). Keli Pirtle, public affairs specialist with NOAA Communications, said the center is unique in that the building is owned by the University of Oklahoma but houses several federal programs. Federal, state, and university staff work together to improve our understanding of severe weather forecasting and to educate future meteorologists.

“One of the main things that researchers in Norman have contributed is the development of Doppler radar,” Pirtle said. That advancement in the early 1970s has led to the NEXRAD radar system that is currently in use. “It’s the best radar system in the world right now, the most reliable,” she said. “Doppler made a huge difference in the way forecasters ‘see’ severe weather and allowed them to issue tornado and severe thunderstorm warnings much earlier. It improved what we call warning lead time which ultimately gives people more time to seek shelter.

“Now, to continue that, the NSSL and the University are working on a potential tool called phased array radar. It still uses Doppler technology but has a difference in the antenna. The beam is steered electronically rather than mechanically which makes it faster.”

PREDICTING FOR THE NATION

The National Weather Center in Norman houses several NOAA National Weather Service organizations including the Storm Prediction Center (SPC) which issues forecasts not just for Oklahoma but for all 48 contiguous states, Pirtle explained, and the National Weather Service (NWS) Norman Forecast Office that serves central and western Oklahoma and northwest Texas.

“No matter where you are in the country, if you’re under a tornado watch, it was issued from Norman,” she said. A tornado watch is issued when weather conditions show an increased risk of storms capable of

producing a tornado. Tornado warnings are released when a tornado has been spotted. The SPC coordinates with NWS forecast offices across the country, like those in Norman and Tulsa. These offices forecast and issue warnings as storms of any type approach their areas.

The goal of all the collaborative efforts is to create a more weather-ready nation, giving citizens ample time to process the risk and act.

OKLAHOMA WEATHER EVENTS, continued on page 22.

Photo courtesy of NOAA NSSL

HISTORY MAKING STORMS

Though it’s hard to imagine today, the federal government once banned the use of the word “tornado” over the airways, thinking its use would panic the population. Then in 1948, a tornado hit Tinker Air Force Base and caused significant damage.

“Four or five days later, the meteorologists on base saw the same weather pattern happening again and went to the base leadership,” Pirtle said. U.S. Air Force meteorologists Robert Miller and Ernest Fawbush got permission to issue the very first tornado forecast and warning before a tornado again hit the area. By 1953, public watches and warnings were an established part of the national landscape.

IN THE TWISTER’S PATH

While Oklahoma’s most devastating loss of life and property from tornadoes happened before the advent of these warning systems, two major events proved that the danger of tornado outbreaks remains very real. Both tornadoes were rated as F5, the highest possible rating on the Fujita scale of intensity measurement.

On May 3, 1999, severe weather generated 66 funnels in Oklahoma and Kansas. A thunderstorm supercell during the evening rush hour produced an F5 tornado which touched down southwest of Amber. Following a northeast path of 38 miles over 85 minutes, it reached a mile wide, devastating parts of Bridge Creek,

Newcastle, Moore, Oklahoma City, Del City, and Midwest City.

The destructive event’s toll included 46 deaths directly and five indirectly, as well as 800 injured. Damage and destruction affected 8,132 homes, 1,041 apartments, and 260 businesses, prompting President Bill Clinton to issue a major disaster declaration. “Moore has been hit by more F5 tornadoes than any place in the world,” long-time Tulsa NWS meteorologist Mike Teague observed.

Memories of that traumatic event were still fresh when an F5 tornado cut a deadly path along a similar northeast track through Newcastle, south Oklahoma City, and Moore on May 20, 2013. It touched down northwest of Newcastle midafternoon and moved into Cleveland County. After crossing southwest Oklahoma City, it hit Moore, again causing widespread damage with what some meteorologists estimated was more than eight times the destructive power of the Hiroshima atomic bomb.

Its winds destroyed two elementary schools, killing seven students. Nine other fatalities occurred in the vicinity of the schools, and there was major damage to Moore Medical Center and businesses. The mile-wide monster was on the ground for nearly 40 minutes, covering almost 14 miles. A total of 1,150 homes were damaged or destroyed.

Multiple killer tornadoes on the same day are rare, but eastern Oklahoma has had two such events

in the past 50 years. On the afternoon of June 8, 1974, a storm front produced 22 tornadoes in the central and eastern portions of the state and resulted in 16 deaths and 300 injuries.

One of those twisters devastated Drumright. Six nursing home residents were among the 12 local people killed by the F4 tornado. It claimed more lives as it tracked through Olive and Sperry before dissipating. The toll from that event included 14 killed and 150 injured.

That same front spawned a pair of F3 tornadoes by early evening. The impact path of the first of traveled from Catoosa through Big Cabin; the second funnel was on the ground for 50 miles striking locations from Sapulpa to Tulsa to Chouteau. Those tornadoes and subsequent flash floods combined to cause three fatalities and 122 injuries.

Steve Piltz, meteorologist in charge of the NWS Tulsa office, pointed out that radio station KRMG went above and beyond in its coverage of those events.

FLOOD ZONE

Heavy rains have led to devastating flooding along Oklahoma’s rivers and lakes. Keystone Lake and the Arkansas River were the sites of major flooding events a little over two years apart.

Thunderstorms from a stalled cold front unleashed up to 15 inches of rainfall over

Tulsa Plaza 3 Theater tornado damage in December 1975

Photo courtesy of Oklahoma Historical Society

Bonus Content

To see more images of historical weather events in Oklahoma, view the digital edition of LIFE's Vintage Magazine. Find the link under the resources tab at LIFEseniorservices.org.

eight hours on two days in May 1984. The resulting rising bodies of water brought about the Memorial Day flood, considered the worst in Tulsa’s history. The overflowing banks of the Arkansas River and its tributaries were responsible for 14 deaths, 288 injuries, and the damage or destruction of 5,500 buildings and 7,000 vehicles. A major disaster declaration for the event was issued by President Ronald Reagan.

“That was one of the most documented floods in U.S. history and it forced a lot of change,” Teague stated. “The storm drain system was unable to handle the water from the rains. We had 9.35 inches official rain measurement in 12 to 18 hours.”

The Memorial Day flood was a catalyst for Tulsa to implement several innovative alert systems and floodwater management programs. But just under two-and-a-half years later, remnants of Hurricane Paine brought 24 inches of rain to the northwest area of Lake Keystone between September 30 and October 4, 1986. By October 5, the rising lake level forced the Army Corps of Engineers to release over 300,000 cubic feet of water per second at Keystone Dam.

The result was flooding and evacuations in Sand Springs, Tulsa, Jenks, and Bixby with the Arkansas River cresting at 25.21 feet.

A series of severe thunderstorms brought almost daily heavy rains to northeastern Oklahoma starting May 18, 2019. High lake levels and soil saturation combined to again cause record and near-record flooding along the Arkansas River and its tributaries.

The rising waters tested the integrity of Keystone Dam, which gradually had to release water at a rate of over 275,000 cubic feet per second before the event subsided well into June. Flooding impacted Sapulpa, Broken Arrow, Bixby, and Muskogee, and before the week was over, Webbers Falls had to be evacuated. A state of emergency was declared for all 77 counties. A total of five deaths were linked to the flooding.

ICE, SNOW, AND HAIL

Oklahoma has had its share of paralyzing ice storms. One of the most widespread and costly started on Christmas night of 2000. What began as a major winter storm in the western portion

of the state with between eight and 12 inches of snow turned into a mixture of snow, sleet, and freezing rain running from Ponca City to Oklahoma City to Lawton. By the following night, south-central and southeast Oklahoma were covered in one to two inches of ice.

The extensive ice damage left 170,000 residents without power from Duncan up through McAlester and Eufaula. Water and phone service were cut off for many. It took up to a week to restore electricity in a widespread area. The NWS reported six deaths indirectly caused by the ice storm.

Tulsa area residents were among the 700,000 electric customers statewide who lost power during the ice storm of December 8 – 11, 2007. This event began as rain but by December 9, it was ice coating roads, trees, and power lines. The ensuing outages left many communities with no electricity, and around 150,000 residents lost power for a week or longer. Public Service Company of Oklahoma’s 500 workers and 5,000 out-of-state volunteers labored around the clock to restore service. A state of emergency was declared for all 77 counties.

While the western portion of the Sooner state routinely experiences the heaviest snowfalls, eastern Oklahoma had a granddaddy of a winter blast in 2011. Between January 31 and February 1, Tulsa was blanketed with 14 inches of snow, an all-time city record for a single event, 24-hour snowfall, and snow depth.

“I measured the snow all night long and we ended with that 14 inches on the ground,” Teague remembered. “I couldn’t believe the number of abandoned cars!”

Both Teague and Piltz recounted how the NWS Tulsa office personnel came to their headquarters

knowing they would likely be snowed in and many ended up sleeping on the floor.

Rare blizzard conditions prevailed across this part of the state with 21 inches of snow six miles east of Owasso and 20 inches in Hominy, Sperry, Claremore, and Miami. Oklahoma City recorded 12.1 inches. By February 3, Tulsa's temperature plummeted to minus 6 degrees Fahrenheit with a brutal wind chill of minus 25 degrees.

On February 8 – 9, a second snowstorm swept through the state with as much as eight inches of additional snow in most locations. However, Spavinaw set a state record 24-hour snowfall of 27 inches on February 9 – 10. Those two winter events resulted in six fatalities. They also helped yield the snowiest winter in Tulsa history at 26.1 inches.

Also of note was the Christmas Eve blizzard of December 24 – 25, 2009. Morning rain on Christmas Eve turned by afternoon into six inches of blowing snow in the northwest corridor of I-44 with wind gusts to 40 mph. Piltz said while working his shift Christmas Eve, his data combined with those from the NWS in Norman confirmed the need for a blizzard warning, the first ever issued for Tulsa.

Hailstorms often accompany thunderstorms, and Oklahoma ranks third nationally for per capita losses from hail damage. In 2011 a record six-inch diameter hailstone fell near Gotebo. Norman sustained major damage from hailstorms 10 years later.

Whatever the elements have in store for us in Oklahoma, rest assured the possibilities are anything but boring.

Photo courtesy of Tulsa Historical Society & Museum

May 1984 flood damage in Tulsa

“People are counting on me to give them information because I’ve got a view that no one else has. I can see it from miles away and send that information back to the station through video."

– Dustin Stone

Eye of the Storm

Tracking Weather from Land and Sky

BY JOEY MECHELLE FARQUÉ

Once upon a time, not so long ago, predicting and tracking storms was as primitive as it was precarious. With technology that now seems as outmoded as the telegraph, meteorologists and storm chasers relied on basic radar, ground observations, and a hefty dose of educated guessing. Fast forward to today, and storm chasing has transformed as dramatically as a clear sky turning stormy. This evolution is not just about the technology — it’s about the brave souls chasing these tempests, armed with gadgets their predecessors couldn’t have dreamed of. Dustin Stone, SkyNews 6 pilot and reporter, and Kevin Tolliston, storm tracker for News on 6, represent the pinnacle of this meteorological metamorphosis.

THE GROUND GAME

Tolliston’s path to becoming a storm chaser is a tale of transformation. Initially terrified of storms, he was influenced by his father to become curious and then he became fascinated. Through rigorous training, including weather and radar education through the University of Oklahoma in

Norman and numerous National Weather Service (NWS) programs, Tolliston became an expert in navigating the chaos of storms to keep communities informed and safe.

Deployed based on meticulous weatherpattern monitoring, Tolliston ensures comprehensive coverage during severe weather events. His mission is clear: to provide crucial information that can save lives. “My calling is to help people and make a difference in people’s lives,” he said, emphasizing the importance of safety and the adrenaline-pumping reality of close calls.

Tolliston’s encounter in 2019 with a sudden tornado, a vortex of wind measuring 117 mph, was a stark reminder of the dangers these chasers willingly face to provide early warnings and safeguard communities. “It was absolutely terrifying, but thankfully, I was not injured and only had a couple of scratches on my truck,” he recalled, a testament to the narrow line between routine chasing and life-threatening situations.

He further highlights a profoundly personal moment as his most memorable experience.

“My calling is to help people and make a difference in people’s lives."

– Kevin Tolliston, storm chaser

DRONES

& the Future of Storm Tracking

“I think the coolest thing I’ve ever done is to take my oldest daughter Hannah with me and watch her see her first tornado. It’s always neat to see your children also take an interest in your passion.”

Tolliston’s advice to aspiring storm chasers is to seek education and mentorship. “Don’t just get in your car and go chase,” he warned, highlighting the dangers and recommending NWS storm spotter classes as a starting point.

SKY HIGH AERIAL ADVENTURES

Dustin Stone offers a different perspective — literally. With over two decades of experience as a pilot, his training equipped him with the skills to navigate the skies, even in adverse weather conditions. His role goes beyond piloting; he’s directly linked to meteorologists, providing a unique vantage point for storms that ground trackers can’t access.

Stone’s transition from ground chaser to helicopter pilot for News On 6 means he's no longer restricted to surface roads. “From the air, I can go away from the storm in a straight line,” he said. His approach to storm chasing is cautious yet practical, placing the safety and well-being of his crew above all. “The call is always mine.”

Beyond storm chasing, Stone’s experiences have ranged from heartwarming encounters with fans to witnessing the raw power of nature from the air. He is clear about the gravity of his role.

“People are counting on me to give them information because I’ve got a view that no one else has. I can see the storm from miles away and send that information back to the station through video,” he said.

Stone distances himself from the stereotype of the thrill-seeker, grounding his work in a profound sense of duty. “I’m not an adrenaline junkie. I don’t have anything to prove to anybody. My goal is to go home every night.” His words underscore a dedication not to the rush of danger but to the solemn responsibility to inform and protect, all while navigating the inherent risks of his calling with caution and humility.

FROM DOPPLER TO DRONES

The advancements in storm-tracking technology have been pivotal in enhancing the accuracy and efficacy of weather forecasting. Doppler radar, which can measure wind speeds and direction, has become a cornerstone of modern

meteorology. But the innovation doesn’t stop there — predictions using artificial intelligence, advanced imagery, smartphone alerts, and even weather drones emerge as game-changers, offering unprecedented insights into storm dynamics without risking human lives.

Today’s tools are light years ahead of what storm chasers used to work with. It’s like comparing a horse and buggy to a modern-day sports car. But no matter how advanced the tools get, they’re just that — tools. It’s the human element, the decision-making in the moment, that really makes the difference. For Stone and Tolliston, storm chasing is less about pursuing danger and more about a profound desire to inform and shield communities from severe weather.

As we look towards the horizon, it’s clear that the future of weather forecasting is bright, propelled by technological advancements and the dedication of those who chase the wind. Together, they ensure that we’re not just observers of the weather but active participants in understanding and responding to the forces that shape our world.

The view from Osage SkyNews 6 gives pilot Dustin Stone a unique perspective on severe weather.

Drones, the latest meteorological game changers, are unmanned flying robots that can be controlled remotely or programmed to follow a path. Weather drones have sensors to collect real-time temperature, humidity, pressure, and wind speed data from various altitudes and locations.

Data collected by unmanned drones enhance the accuracy of short-term and localized weather forecasts, especially in areas where traditional weather stations are sparse. Drones are now pivotal in monitoring severe weather phenomena, offering a cost-effective and versatile solution to data collection challenges in remote or inaccessible areas. Their ability to provide detailed environmental monitoring — from air quality to the impacts of climate change — further underscores their value in contemporary meteorology.

Challenges to integrating drones into meteorology include regulatory hurdles, battery life limitations, and the need for seamless integration into existing meteorological frameworks. Technological advances and increased collaboration between meteorological agencies and drone manufacturers are gradually overcoming the challenges, paving the way for a future where drones play a central role in weather forecasting and disaster management.

The Tulsa area has become a leading site for the advancement of drone technology and safety. The Tulsa NWS office received an $800,000 grant to explore flying drones up to about 9,000 feet in an FAA-approved way to measure weather elements in support of severe weather forecasting.

The Oklahoma Aerospace Institute for Research and Education, part of the Innovation Foundation of Oklahoma State University and OSU-Tulsa, is partnering with an avionics company to develop a drone traffic management system that monitors aviation traffic to maintain airspace safety.

The Osage Nation has developed the Skyway 36 industrial center just north of downtown with a helipad for unmanned aerial systems, or “drone port.”

STRANGE WEATHER PHENOMENA

Mother Nature is a majestic, fearsome, and astonishing force. Sometimes, she’s just plain odd.

BY JULIE WENGER WATSON

“If you don’t like the weather in Oklahoma, wait a minute and it will change,” is a quotation often attributed to Oklahoma humorist Will Rogers. If you’ve spent time in this state, you know what he meant. Tornadoes, hail, torrential rain, and drought — it seems the Sooner State gets it all; sometimes all on the same day. While we can do our best to predict it, we can’t control it.

DEFINING STRANGE WEATHER

Most of us are familiar with the basics, but have you heard of sprites — electrical discharges high above thunderclouds? How about sun pillars — shafts of light that extend vertically above the sun? Things can certainly get weird when the conditions are right, but what do weather professionals consider strange?

“I would describe strange weather phenomena as any atmospheric event that seemingly defies explanation,” said Tulsa native and Fox23 meteorologist Mike Grogan. “Often these events are awe-inspiring and/or bewildering.”

Joie Bettenhausen, NewsChannel 8 meteorologist, defines odd weather as “weather that’s not typical for a particular area, or a type of event that we would think of in a more negative light.” Her list includes tornadoes, winter storms in the South, and unseasonably warm or cold weather.

ODD OKLAHOMA WEATHER

Just how strange is Oklahoma’s weather? Extending from the Rocky Mountain foothills to the eastern Ozark Highlands, Ouachita

Mountains, and South Central Plains, Oklahoma’s variations in topography, elevation, and precipitation result in everything from dry shortgrass prairies to flooded cypress swamps. Our state has a wealth of biodiversity. Similarly, our climate ranges from humid subtropical in the east to semi-arid in the west, with long hot summers and shorter winters.

“In terms of severe weather, I think Oklahoma deals with more storms compared to other parts of the country. The reason we see more storms form in the Central and Southern Plains is that it’s a perfect location for all the ingredients to come together,” Bettenhausen explained.

“Rich Gulf moisture streams in with a breezy southerly wind. The low-level jet stream sets up in our state, more times than not, fueling storms. We’re right in the heart of national temperature difference, with cold temperatures to our north and warm to the south.”

Grogan agrees that Oklahoma has its share of interesting weather, more in some seasons

than others. “We have plenty of severe weather phenomena,” he said. “But we’re less likely to have the winter weather events that northern locations regularly experience.”

DERECHOS

While many people aren’t familiar with the weather term “derechos” Bettenhausen says the windstorms are quite common in our area of the state and can be very destructive. She describes a derecho as a long-track windstorm that travels at least 400 miles, producing many 58+ mph wind gusts and several 75+ mph gusts along its path. These storms can cause straight-line wind damage and produce gusts over 130 mph. Derechos can even spawn a few, brief tornadoes. Many Tulsans will recall the derecho that occurred just after midnight on Father’s Day 2023, bringing wind gusts of up to 100 mph, and causing widespread damage in the local metro area. The storm left over 200,000 PSO customers in northeast Oklahoma without power, many for an extended period.

Mammatus clouds are often seen during spring.

UNUSUAL CLOUD FORMATIONS

Grogan is an enthusiast of Oklahoma’s weird weather. Among the many unusual phenomena he’s experienced are several remarkable cloud formations, such as a “roll cloud,” which is often mistaken for the tornado producing “wall clouds.”

“These are benign clouds, but they appear quite ominous because they are low to the ground and are often dark,” he said. “The detached, long tubular clouds that can extend from horizon to horizon are formed by cool outflow winds from a storm, often one that has decayed entirely. They rarely produce rain and can persist beneath blue skies.”

Asperitas is a rarely occurring cloud type that appears as waves. According to Grogan, these clouds look like a crinkled blanket in the sky. “You need some level of turbulent winds that force the wave-like cloud deck, but these rarely signal dangerous or even inclement weather. These clouds were seen over Tulsa last year,” he said. Mammatus clouds, or “bubbly structures beneath the anvil of a strong thunderstorm,” are often seen in the spring. Although the exact mechanism of their formation isn’t well understood, they’re associated with turbulent winds flowing out from a thunderstorm, and they can be a dazzling sight at sunset.

DUST DEVILS & HEAT BURSTS

The appropriately named “dust devils” are another Oklahoma specialty. A dust devil is a wind phenomenon caused by strong surface heat

interacting with cooler air above it, often over a field or hot pavement.

Grogan says that these tornado-like whirlwinds form on hot, dry days, often with a clear sky

They defy prediction and seem to appear at random. “Winds within these dust devils can reach 60+ mph and can visibly extend hundreds of feet into the sky,” he said.

Another odd weather occurrence unique to Oklahoma and the Southern Plains, “heat bursts” are instances of strong, hot winds that occur as a thunderstorm decays. Temperatures can climb well above 100 degrees, with winds gusting upwards of 50 mph. These often occur at night and can last up to an hour in a given location.

“The experience for us will be a sharp rise in temperatures, a big drop in humidity, and strong winds,” Grogan said. “I once witnessed this near Ponca City. The winds were so strong that blowing dust made driving incredibly hazardous.”

APRIL 8 SOLAR ECLIPSE

If you’re interested in some weather-watching of your own, there will be a total solar eclipse passing over the United States on April 8. Both Grogan and Bettenhausen are excited to witness it.

“I’m so looking forward to the total solar eclipse,” said Bettenhausen. “It will reach totality over McCurtain County, Oklahoma, around 1:47 p.m.

If you’d like to view the eclipse, make sure you have approved solar eclipse glasses that will protect your eyes from solar radiation. You can pick these up at

Solar eclipses are celestial events.

your local hardware store or online.”

According to Grogan, nothing beats a total solar eclipse. “Ninety-nine percent of the sun covered is still a very different experience than totality because of the intensity of the sun’s rays. It is a truly breathtaking experience. You witness a 360-degree sunset with a view of the wild solar corona surrounding the moon,” he said. “The next one won’t happen here for another 20 years, so be sure to soak it in!”

SUNDOGS

Also called “mock suns,” sundogs are patches of light that sometimes appear to the right, left, or both sides of the sun. They are optical illusions caused by sunlight refracting through ice crystals in the atmosphere. They may have subtle colors, similar to rainbows.

Lenticular clouds have been reported as UFOs.

LENTICULAR CLOUDS

Lenticular clouds have a rounded shape like a disc and have actually been reported as alien spacecraft. They tend to form around large mountains or other protruding landmasses. They are formed as moist air flows over a mountain or hill, causing condensation to occur in a kind of lens formation.

OTHER WEATHER ODDITIES

FROST FLOWERS

Frost flowers can be found in the early morning as the weather turns cold in autumn and early winter. They’re layers of ice crystals that form when moisture inside plant stems freezes and oozes out through splits in the stem. Frost flowers are like ribbons or spikes of ice with feathery curls that melt as the temperature rises.

LIGHTNING SPRITES

Lightning sprites, which look almost like red jellyfish made of lightning, are electrical discharges that sometimes accompany thunderstorms. These discharges take place in the mesosphere, a layer of the atmosphere that is up to 50 miles high in the sky. Very short-lasting, lightning sprites were first captured on film in 1989.

22-DEGREE HALOS

Circles of light, or halos, around the sun and the moon are fairly common to see. They are caused by wispy clouds of ice crystals, tens of thousands of feet above the Earth’ s surface. When light hits the ice, its colors are separated like a rainbow. They’re named 22-degree halos because they generally span about that distance of what scientists call the 360-degree sky.

Navigating Power Outages Understanding Generator Options and Costs

Power outages caused by severe weather are a reality of life in Oklahoma, and they can pose serious risks for people who rely on essential medical equipment. Home generators are an option that can help you prepare for the next potential outage, but there are safety and other considerations to consider should you decide to purchase one.

WHAT IS A HOME GENERATOR?

Home generators are appliances that generate electricity by burning propane, gasoline, natural gas, or diesel. Generators come in different sizes and configurations, ranging from small, portable units to large, stationary installations. The size and capacity of a generator determine the amount of power it can produce, measured in watts or kilowatts.

Portable generators are commonly found in hardware stores and are powered by gasoline. Designed to provide temporary power during outages, they are typically used to run essential appliances like refrigerators, lights, and a few other devices. A subset of portable generators, inverter generators provide cleaner and more stable power output. They are generally more fuel-efficient and quieter than traditional portable generators.

Standby generators, also known as whole-house generators, are permanently installed outside the home and are connected directly to the electrical system. Standby generators are powered by natural gas or propane and provide

Weather or Not Choosing the Best Weather App

Weather Channel

The Weather Channel app offers up-to-date weather forecasts, radar maps, and severe weather alerts. Users can receive personalized weather updates based on their location and preferences.

AccuWeather

AccuWeather provides hyper-local forecasts, minuteby-minute precipitation predictions, and severe weather alerts. The app also offers radar maps, videos, and lifestyle forecasts tailored to users’ specific interests.

WeatherBug

WeatherBug delivers realtime weather conditions, forecasts, and lightning alerts. The app features interactive maps, live camera feeds from weather stations, and customizable severe weather alerts.

uninterrupted power to an entire household for an extended period. They automatically kick in when they detect a power outage and shut off once power is restored.

In addition to traditional generators, portable power bank battery chargers offer a convenient and affordable solution for keeping small but essential devices charged during power outages. These compact devices can recharge smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other small electronics multiple times before needing to be recharged. For seniors or individuals with limited mobility, these portable chargers can provide peace of mind by ensuring communication and access to essential services during emergencies.

HOW MUCH DOES A HOME GENERATOR COST?

Prices for portable generators can range from $500 to $3,500, depending on the brand, size, and features. Inverter generators typically cost more than traditional portable generators due to their advanced technology. Portable power bank battery chargers run between $40 and $70.

Whole-house generators are significantly more expensive, with costs ranging from $5,000 to $18,000. Installation expenses, including permits and labor, can add to the overall cost.

SAFETY FIRST

While portable generators offer convenience, they come with safety risks. It’s crucial to operate them outdoors in well-ventilated areas at least 20 feet from open doors and windows to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Keep a portable generator dry; do not use it in wet conditions. Additionally, proper fuel storage and maintenance are necessary to minimize fire hazards.

Standby generators are generally safer to use since they are professionally installed and operate totally outside the home. However, standby generators should be installed at least 5 feet away from your home to prevent exhaust from seeping through open doors and windows. Additionally, investing in carbon monoxide detectors offers an extra layer of safety assurance when utilizing a home generator.

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AND SUPPORT

Some government agencies and utility companies offer financial assistance or incentives for purchasing standby generators, especially for individuals with medical needs requiring uninterrupted power supply. FEMA may reimburse the purchase if you lose power and need the generator to power a medically required piece of equipment, including a refrigerator for required medicines, such as insulin.

Homeowners’ insurance policies may cover a portion of the cost of purchasing and installing standby generators, particularly if it’s deemed necessary for mitigating risks associated with power outages.

Local organizations or community groups may provide support or funding initiatives to assist vulnerable populations, such as seniors, in acquiring backup power solutions.

Weather Underground

Weather Underground features real-time weather data from weather stations worldwide, interactive radar maps, customizable weather alerts, and current conditions.

NOAA Weather Radar & Alerts

NOAA Weather Radar & Alerts offers radar, weather alerts, and forecasts from the experts at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

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Local News Stations

Weather apps like News On 6 Weather and Fox23 Weather provide invaluable resources from local meteorologists for navigating Oklahoma’s dynamic weather conditions and storms.

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Commonym

A commonym is a group of words that have a common trait in the three words/items listed. For example, the words Ice – Sugar – Rubik’s – are all cubes. Answers on page 39.

Donut – Black – Pot

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Slip – Slide – Square

Wrapping – Fly – Toilet

Moons – Hearts – Clovers

Square – Lug – Wing

Odd – Irrational – Even

Rose – Bay – Stained Glass

Forest – Lime – Hunter

House – Dragon – Horse

A bamboozable is a saying/phrase that is made up of a display of words in an interesting way. The goal is to try to figure out the well-known saying, person, place, or thing that each bamboozable is meant to represent. There are six bamboozables below. Answers on page 39.

Just like preparing for one of nature’s storms, estate planning can help you weather life’s unexpected “storms.”

Think of your will as your emergency evacuation plan. This legal document ensures that your belongings are allocated according to your wishes, providing clarity and direction for your loved ones after you pass away.

A trust can be likened to a sturdy shelter built to withstand stormy weather. Similar to finding a safe haven during a storm, a trust offers protection and control over your assets, allowing for efficient management and distribution according to your instructions.

Advance directives serve as your emergency preparedness kit for life’s unexpected health crises. These legal documents, including a living will and a durable power of attorney for healthcare, specify your medical preferences and appoint someone to make decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated.

Celebrate Spring

Local Garden Markets Flourish in April

Spring has sprung in Oklahoma, and the month of April is filled with activities that celebrate the season of renewal. Area garden markets and festivals are overflowing with colorful plants and herbs sure to delight anyone with an interest in gardening. Those who don’t have a green thumb will enjoy the local crafts, food trucks, and live music. Earth Day celebrations this month encourage environmental stewardship and promote the natural world. Welcome spring and enjoy these festivities. Events are free unless otherwise noted. Beautiful tulips on

April 4, 11, & 18

Tulsa Botanic Blooms

Tulsa Botanic Garden

3900 Tulsa Botanic Dr. • Tulsa

Experience the color and wonder of more than 100,000 spring-blooming bulbs at their peak during this months-long event that begins in mid-March and continues through May.

Daffodils, tulips, hyacinths, and crocus are on display in various themes throughout the park. Bloom times vary so check their website to find out when the blooms are at their finest. Bring a blanket or lawn chair for Bands and Blooms on Thursday evenings through April, featuring live music from local musicians, food, and beverages. Advanced tickets are recommended. For prices and times, visit tulsabotanic.org.

April 1 – 30

Muskogee Azalea Festival

Honor Heights Park

1400 Honor Heights Dr. • Muskogee

Since 1968, visitors from around the world have flocked to Honor Heights Park to celebrate one of Oklahoma’s most iconic spring bloomers, the azalea. More than 30,000 azaleas in 625 varieties bloom throughout the month at the 40-acre

Julie Alexander, Assistant Editor

garden. Drive or walk through the spectacular display of azaleas, tulips, wisteria, and dogwoods for a one-of-a-kind experience. While you are there, don’t forget to visit the Papillion garden that will be filled with tulips and other spring flowering plants. To learn when blooms are at their peak, call the hotline at (918) 913-9559. Don’t forget about the parade and the fun run! For more information on this annaul event, visit muskogeeparks.org.

April 5 – 7

Art in Bloom

Philbrook Museum

2727 S. Rockford Rd. • Tulsa

See stunning floral displays created by local floral designers inspired by the art and architecture of one of Tulsa’s treasured museums. While you’re there, stroll through the galleries and visit the stunning gardens. For admission costs and more information on this or upcoming events, visit philbrook.org/calendar.

April 12 – 13

SpringFest at Woodward Park

2435 S. Peoria Ave. • Tulsa

SpringFest is one of the longest-running garden markets in the state and is celebrating its 69th year. The event is at the Teaching Garden and Visitor Center and includes plant sales, art, music, gardening information, and more. Bring a blanket and enjoy a picnic lunch from one of the food vendors. For more information, visit tulsagardencenter.org/springfest.

April 12 – 13

Woolaroc Spring Traders Encampment

Woolaroc Museum and Wildlife Preserve 1925 Woolaroc Ranch Rd. • Bartlesville

This annual western heritage event recreates the rugged pioneer life in 1840s Indian Territory. Hosted by Woolaroc’s Mountain Men, the camp is historically accurate and features campers in tents and tipis. Stroll the grounds, experience period craft demonstrations, and purchase wares.

display during Bands and Blooms at Tulsa Botanic Garden.

Photo courtesy of Tulsa Botanic Garden

Admission to the museum is required. For more information, visit woolaroc.org/spring-traders-encampment-event-details.

April 20

OK Earth Day Celebration

Guthrie Green

101 Reconciliation Way • Tulsa

This day-long celebration of the 54th annual Earth Day features kids’ activities, circus performers, live music, speeches, and environmental arts. Visit okrootsmusic.org/ok-earth-day-celebration for more information.

April 20

Sand Springs Herbal Affair and Festival

Broadway and Main Streets • Sand Springs

Hundreds of vendors with herbs, perennials, native plants, and unique arts and crafts will be in historic downtown Sand Springs for this annual festival. There will be plenty of live music and food too. Park at Charles Page High School and ride the shuttle downtown. Learn more by visiting sandspringsok.org/118/herbal-affair-festival.

April 27

Jenks Herb and Plant Festival

Main Street • Downtown Jenks

Over 100 booths of plants, herbs, art, and more are featured each year at this popular festival. This one-day event brings thousands of visitors to downtown Jenks to enjoy the kids’ zone, food trucks, and a large variety of flowers and herbs.

April 25 – 28

Festival of the Arts

Bicentennial Park, 500 Couch Dr. • Oklahoma City

Four days of art, music, and food take over downtown Oklahoma City each year, featuring hundreds of artists from across the country. For more information and a schedule of events, visit artscouncilOKC.org.

April 27

Carney Fest

The Church Studio, 304 S. Trenton • Tulsa

Celebrate the power of music at the Church Studio’s annual Carney Fest. Named after iconic Tulsa music legend Leon Russell’s hit 1972 album “Carney,” this family-friendly outdoor event features a kids’ zone, food trucks, art, music, and tours of the famed Church Studio. This year’s headliner is Mike Campbell, a co-founding member of The Heartbreakers, Tom Petty’s band. Visit carneyfest.com for ticket prices and other information.

April 26 – 27

Red Fern Festival

Downtown Tahlequah

For 16 years, Tahlequah has celebrated Wilson Rawls’ novel, “Where the Red Fern Grows,” with the annual Red Fern Festival. This family-friendly event celebrates the book and subsequent movies that were filmed in and around Tahlequah. There is a Miss Red Fern Pageant, a rubber duck race on Town Branch Creek, and Hound Dog Field Trials, of course, for Top Dog bragging rights. For more information, visit tahlequahmainstreet.com/red-fern-festival.

Tulsa Town Hall 2024 – 2025 Speaker Series

DR. SANJAY GUPTA – SEPTEMBER 13, 2024

“Medicine in the Media”

Dr. Sanjay Gupta is a practicing neurosurgeon, chief medical correspondent for CNN, and is best known for his captivating reports on health and medical topics. In his latest book, “Keep Sharp and Build a Better Brain at Any Age,” Gupta distills insights from leading global scientists, offering cutting edge research to enhance and safeguard brain function, promoting cognitive health across all ages.

FATHER GREG BOYLE – NOVEMBER 8, 2024

“Barking to the Choir”

As a Jesuit Priest and pastor to the poorest Catholic parish in Los Angeles, Father Greg witnessed the devastating impact of gang violence on his community. In response, he founded Homeboy Industries, the largest gang intervention, rehabilitation, and reentry program in the world. With a sharp wit and an abundance of compassion, the New York Times bestselling author leads the way in allowing gang members to redirect their lives and become valued members of the community.

CHEECH MARIN – JANUARY 31, 2025

“Cheech Collects”

Multi-generational icon Cheech Marin is an actor, director, writer, musician, and humanitarian. His passion for Chicano culture is reflected in his art and comedy. Cheech has developed a renowned Chicano art collection that celebrates the richness and diversity of this cultural identity. Through exhibitions of these works, the Grammy Award winner seeks to contribute a broader appreciation and awareness of Chicano art.

CRISTINA MITTERMEIER – MARCH 21, 2025

“Enoughness: The Ancient Secret to Happiness”

Marine biologist Cristina Mittermeier is one of the most influential conservation photographers of our time. She is dedicated to protecting the world's oceans and inspiring millions of people to do the same. Mittermeier co-founded SeaLegacy, a nonprofit organization to protect and rewild the ocean for the benefit of biodiversity, humanity, and climate. Mittermeier’s work has been published in numerous periodicals, and her photographs have been exhibited in galleries around the world.

DENISE KIERNAN – APRIL 11, 2025

“Generations of Grace: Inspiring Women Who Shaped American History”

Denise Kiernan is an author, journalist, and producer who has worked as a writer for more than 20 years. A New York Times bestselling author, she has covered topics from women's issues, sports and history, to food, travel, and education. She is recognized for her expertise in historical fiction as displayed in her bestsellers, "Girls of Atomic City" and "The Last Castle." Kiernan’s writing is marked by thorough research in a compelling narrative style, making her a respected figure in the literary world.

How many movies, TV series, and plays have I seen about Henry VIII and his wives? How many biographies have I devoured about the king, the queens, and the Tudor court? More than I care to admit.

So, when I learned about a new book focusing on the marriage of Henry and Anne Boleyn, I wondered what on earth anybody could tell me about them that I didn’t already know. Lots, it turns out, and it’s fascinating.

“HUNTING THE FALCON”

“Hunting the Falcon” focuses on “the marriage that shook Europe.” The falcon of the title is Anne Boleyn. She chose a white falcon for her heraldic image, and she had it depicted wearing a crown and holding a scepter in one foot. To drive home the point that she would share the crown with Henry, she added the motto “Mihi et Meae” (“For me and for mine”). That’s the Anne we meet in this book — coming at you and coming confident.

This is a book quite unlike any other history I’ve read. The authors are the British husband and wife historians John Guy and Julia Fox. Their scholarly research is akin to detective work. They sleuth out water-damaged documents, “a bag of secrets,” forgotten collections, and gossipy journals. That’s how we learn what was in the letter so explosive it was not read aloud at the trial of Anne’s brother George Boleyn but so damning it sent both to the executioner’s block.

Book Club/

Henry and Anne and the Marriage That Shook Europe

That’s at the end of the story. The start of this book details a young Henry, a young Anne, and the parental, political, and social forces that shaped them. The academic authors write in a straightforward style: “Over-indulged by a doting mother and over-protected by an autocratic father, Henry grew into a narcissist who saw exercising control as his birthright, a man who never accepted blame for his own actions and always looked for scapegoats … he confronted any challenge to his authority with a wall of anger.”

Anne was the daughter of the ambitious Boleyns, a family always scrambling for money and position. She had a singular training as a young maid of honor to strong, independent women: Margaret of Austria at the Habsburg court and even more formatively to Queen Claude of France, wife of King Francis I. These were glamorous women, politically savvy, educated, and influential with power of their own. They were interested in religious reform; their courts glimmered with artists and musicians.

Back in Britain, Anne had seen the dour court of Katherine of Aragon — docile, religious women

who sewed a lot. She patterned her life on her brilliant, witty role models of France and Austria and returned to England with French panache and intellectual self-confidence. As the authors write, “Anne was an extraordinarily modern woman, a supremely talented, captivating spirit comfortable in her own skin and confident in her destiny. Even her nemesis (Thomas) Cromwell praised her wit, intelligence, and courage.”

Henry was dazzled. He had never met a woman like her and he vowed to make her his wife at whatever cost. The cost was mighty.

Yet this book is not the story of a great love. Pulsing throughout it are the military battles, intrigues, marriage contracts, alliances, and betrayals of brutal European politics. Take away the glittering robes and the title of king, and we see Henry as the brute he was. The opening chapter details Anne’s execution with painful detail, from her initial hysteria to her final steely grace. Nothing romantic here. We also see Anne in a new light — a woman of startling independence, dedicated to church reform and feeding the poor. Her court was so lively and free that she was not only ahead of her time in England, she was dangerously ahead.

It’s a hefty book, almost 600 pages with illustrations, but the payoff is worth every page. The complete title is “Hunting the Falcon: Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn and the Marriage that Shook Europe.”

Anne Boleyn, Hever Castle portrait, by an unknown artist

Portrait of Henry VIII aged about 35, by artist Lucas Horenbout

Wild Weather

In April 1966, a funnel

A flood rescue team gathered in front of the Town Talk Grocery store near 33rd West Avenue and Charles Page Boulevard during the 1943 flood.

This Month in History

APRIL 3, 1996

Unabomber Arrested

The FBI arrested Theodore John Kaczynski at his cabin in Montana under suspicion that he was the Unabomber, the terrorist who mailed 16 bombs over 18 years resulting in three deaths and dozens of injuries. Kaczynski targeted universities and airlines leading to the name, an acronym of sorts of the words university, airline, and bomber. He was sentenced to four life sentences plus 30 years, dying in prison at age 81 in 2023.

APRIL 4, 1973

Twin Towers Open in New York City

It took over a decade to complete the World Trade Center with architect Minoru Yamasaki drawing inspiration from Arabic architecture. The towers briefly replaced the Empire State Building as the world’s tallest building. Most of the towers were occupied by office space, but many tourists visited the Top of the World Observation Deck in the South Tower, as well as the North Tower’s Windows on the World restaurant.

APRIL 4, 1865

Lincoln Dreams About His Assassination

Lincoln’s friend, Ward Hill Lamon, recounts that the President dreamed of a corpse lying in the White House East Room. In the dream, Lincoln asked a nearby soldier, “Who is dead in the White House?” to which the soldier responded, “The President. He was killed by an assassin.” Lincoln then woke up and told Lamon that the dream had “strangely annoyed” him ever since. He was assassinated 10 days later.

APRIL 5, 1614

Pocahontas Marries John Rolfe Pocahontas was taken prisoner by the English in the hopes of establishing peace with her father, the chief of the Powhatan Confederacy. In Jamestown, she was treated as a guest rather than a hostage. By the time her father agreed to her release, Pocahontas had reportedly fallen in love with John Rolfe. They were married with the blessing of the chief and governor of Virginia.

APRIL 11, 1921

First Radio Broadcast of a Live Sporting Event

Before 1921, radio had been primarily used for two-way communication. However, the vice president of Westinghouse saw it as something more, saying the radio was “an idea of limitless opportunity.” He tested live-event radio broadcasting with sports. The first licensed radio station, KDKA, broadcast a boxing match between Johnny Ray and Johnny Dundee with a second fight broadcast within a few months.

APRIL 15, 1921

Titanic Sinks

The Titanic ocean liner broke in half and then sank into the North Atlantic Ocean at 2:20 a.m., just a couple of hours after striking an iceberg. The Titanic carried around 2,200 passengers and crew on its maiden voyage with more than 1,500 dying due to a shortage of lifeboats. It took nearly an hour and a half for another ship to arrive and rescue the survivors.

© The History Channel

Property damage in East Tulsa was extensive following the Mingo Creek flood in June 1976.

cloud appeared over Coweta.

Tulsa Historical Society & Museum • 2445 S. Peoria Ave., Tulsa

LIFE’s Vintage Magazine does not endorse advertiser products or services. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertising.

BOOKS

Missing Palm Tree

Missing Palm Tree: Stories from America's Clandestine Service. This is a widely acclaimed book which tells in vivid language how dangerous clandestine work is and the efforts which an agent must use to be successful. Written by W. Blaine Wheeler and is available on Amazon.com books/

CARPET CLEANING

ALL PRO Carpet Cleaning

Senior and caregiver discounts. Carpet, furniture, rug cleaning. Pet odor removed and Teflon protectant available. Emergency water extraction. Residential and commercial services. Professional truck mount steam cleaning. Carpet repairs and restretching. Prompt, professional, quality service at a fair price. Certified, insured. Veteran owned and operated. Call Thomas Fink, owner/technician, for free estimate (918) 636-6303.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE

Meadow Lake Ranch

Meadow Lake Ranch is a beautiful place to celebrate and to remember your loved one with family and friends. Indoor venues or woods and water patio.15 minutes west of Tulsa. Call Susie at (918) 494-6000 for a personal tour. Visit www. Meadowlakeranch.com or email meadowlakeranch@cox.net

CEMETERY LOTS

Across from Bell Tower – Memorial Park

Two plots across from the Bell Tower in Memorial Park Cemetery.

Located in section 4, Garden of the Chimes. Each lot is $1,700 or make an offer. Call (405) 760-3655 for more information. Ask for Janice. If no answer, please leave name and number.

Across from the Chapel –Memorial Park

Three plots across from the chapel in Memorial Park Cemetery.

Located in section 12 Sunset Garden, lot 221, space 1, 2 & 3. All three lots $4,950. Contact Jeff at (405) 595-6351 for more information. If no answer, please leave name and number.

Floral Haven – 4 Plots

Available Together

Masonic section, Row 100, Lot D, Spaces 1,2,3,4. Asking price is $1,500 each. Floral Haven price is $3,500 each! You don't have to be a Mason to acquire these plots. Price may be negotiable. Call Catherine at (918) 699-9311 and leave a message.

Floral Haven Lawn Crypts

Double depth lawn crypt space for two in the Garden of St. Paul including 16x24 bronze marker with vase & 20x28 granite base. Retail sells for $14,995, asking $8,997. Call or text Terry at (704) 460-4232 and leave a message.

Floral Haven Plot

$3000 – In Garden of the Prophets. Beautiful space! Worth $5,500. Call Tonya at (405) 314-3828.

Memorial Park – 3 Lots

Three plots for sale (Lot 59, Section 22, Spaces 2, 3, and 4) in mature area with trees. Flat bronze or granite markers permitted. Current retail value is $1,870 each. Selling all three for $3,600. Buyer must purchase all three. Call or text (505) 681-8075

Memorial Park Cemetery –Desirable Lots

Plots For Sale in Memorial Park. Four spaces, section 4, lot 42. Desirable established area with mature trees. $2,450 each or discounted further at $9,000 for all four. Transfer fees included. Serious inquiries please call (405) 887-2722

MEMORIAL PARK –DISCOUNTED LOTS

Two spaces Garden of Prayer, Section 14B Lot 31-Spaces 3-4, Flat Bronze Marker Only $1,100 each. Two spaces Park View North, Section 50 Lot 297-Spaces 5-6, Flat Bronze Marker only $1,100 each, or all 4 spaces $4,000. Transfer fees included. Text or Call Linda (918) 855-2351

Memorial Park – Garden of the Apostles

2 peaceful resting places in Section 28, Lot 383, Spaces 5 & 6… $1,750 each (Retail $2,150 each) Call/text Phillip: (801) 652-7480.

Memorial Park Prime Cemetery Plots

Section 26, Lot 157, Space 1 * Crypt included * Bronze or Granite approved. $2,000. Section 43, Lot 46, Spaces 2 & 3 * Bronze or Granite approved. $1,900 each. Contact: marphy3@sbcglobal.net

MEMORIAL PARK –SIDEWALK ACCESS

Three spaces in the Garden of the Christus. Section 15, Plot 128, Spaces 1, 5 and 6. One of the only sections with sidewalk access. $1500.00 per Space, transfer fees included. Willing to negotiate. Call (713) 922-1491.

Park Grove in Broken Arrow

Three lots available in section E of the cherished Park Grove on Houston in Broken Arrow. $3,000 each. Price negotiable for all three lots. Call DK (918) 835-0612.

CLEANING

Live Beautifully! You Deserve It! Here at Moore Cleaning, we want your house to be beautiful. We have over 19 years experience, and references from our loyal customers. Also offering window cleaning and organizing. We customize our cleaning to meet your needs. Safely cleaning with masks and social distancing if preferred. Reasonable rates. Please call today to set up your

appointment. Marybelle Moore (918) 671-5065.

Marybellemoore111@gmail.com.

Window Cleaning. Housecleaning. Widow Cleaning – I make your windows shine no matter what condition they are in. Chandeliers, light fixtures and mirrors. House Cleaning – can do on regular basis, move-in or move-out, construction clean, also will do curio/china cabinets and special projects. Experienced in all areas including detail and organization. Reasonable and with references. Call (539) 664-1986.

COMPUTER SERVICES

Does Technology

Frustrate You?

Honest, patient, ethical help with your pc, modem, wifi, cell phone, email, streaming, camera, password recovery, etc. 30+ years of IT experience in Tulsa. Special rates for seniors.References available. Call or text Carmen Armstrong (918) 688-7453.

DAYTIME CARE

Daytime Care For Older Loved Ones

LIFE’s Adult Day Health offers convenient, affordable daytime care at three locations in Tulsa and Broken Arrow. For more information, call LIFE’s Adult Day Health at (918) 664-9000.

ESTATE SALES

2MS Estate Sales...Tulsa’s Finest!

Downsizing? Estate Liquidation?

Let us take the worry away and maximize your return. No out of pocket expense. We specialize in senior transitions, with over 20 years in the senior housing market. My team includes realtors, moving company, senior housing and attorneys if needed. Please contact Michelle Reed (918) 691-5893 or Atulsa@aol.com also Facebook 2MSestatesalestulsa for a free consultation.

FINANCIAL/INSURANCE

A New Medicare Plan!

Do you know about the new Medicare Supplement Birthday Rule? Each year, starting on your birthday, you have 60 days to shop and enroll into a different Medicare Supplement plan with no medical questions! Find out more by calling MedicarePrepare at (918) 420-9999. Our Local Agents can answer your questions and may be able to save you money on premiums.

Medicare Assistance Program (MAP) at LIFE Senior Services provides accurate information, counseling and assistance for Medicare beneficiaries, their representatives and persons soon to be eligible for Medicare. Call MAP at LIFE Senior Services (918) 664-9000 or toll-free at (866) 664-9009.

Mutual of Omaha

Life, Long Term Care, Medicare and Cancer/Heart Attack/Stroke Policies plus Reverse Mortgages. Local Agent, Cindy Johnson, (918) 619-5919 cell.

GARDENING/LAWN CARE

AAA Lawns & More

Total tree and lawn care. Specializing in reasonably priced tree removal or trimming any size tree. Property line clean-up. Fence repair and installation. Insured, honest, experienced and dependable. Veteran-owned. We are a small company with personal service. References available.

FREE ESTIMATES. Call Larry. (918) 361-1299.

Aardwolf Leaf & Lawn Care

Mowing, weed eating, edging, hedge trimming, garden tilling, gutter cleaning and lawn clean-up. Free Estimates! Call Patrick Mills. (918) 814-0973.

Mower Repair / Maintenance

All brands – Riders, ZTRs, Walk-behinds, UTVs / ATVs. Top Quality work, ASE certified Mechanic. Pick-up and delivery available. Tulsa and surrounding counties. Maintenance specials include pick-up and delivery 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Call Scott (918) 519-3869.

New Season Lawn & Tree

Spring clean-up available. Mowing, trimming, leaf removal, hedge trimming, flower beds. Small tree trimming. We offer weekly, bi-weekly & year-round services. Best rates, senior discounts.

Free Estimates. Accepting new customers!! Call Todd (918) 639-2262. Email info@newseasonlawnandtree.com. and check us out at www.newseasonlawnandtree.com

New Season Tree Masters

Specializing in tree removal and stump grinding. Tree trimming service available. Certified arborist on staff. Serving all of metro Tulsa with over 20 years’ experience. Fully insured. Free estimates. Contact us at info@newseasontreemasters.com or call Todd at (918) 934-4868 www.newseasontreemasters.com.

HOME REPAIR/REMODELING

Big C’s Plumbing Services

Your one-stop-plumbing shop! Call us and I guarantee you will never have to call another plumbing company. Licensed, bonded and insured for your protection...Call (918) 855-9216, tell us you saw us in the Vintage Newsmagazine and receive an automatic 10% discount. Call us now.

Bumgartner Plumbing

Licensed, with over 40 years of experience. Rates are low and based on the job, not the hour. No service call fee or travel time charge. Senior and caregiver discount. Plumbing service and repair our specialty. Honest, professional service you can count on. Lic. #82750. (918) 355-4747.

Carpenter’s Son Renovations, LLC Christ-centered remodeling and construction service. We do everything from full home renovations to minor handyman services. All Flooring (Tile, Carpet,

CLASSIFIEDS

Wood, etc), Fence/Deck, Bathroom and Kitchen, Drywall, Paint, Landscaping, Wheelchair Ramps. Whatever you need we will take care of it. Including prayer! Call for free estimate (918) 509-5407.

Doc J’s Heat and Air LLC

We're listed on the A-List for Home Heat and Air, Tulsa People magazine. Service, repairs, maintenance plans and installations we do it all. Locally owned and operated with reliable and honest technicians. Your comfort is our business. (918) 921-4240.

DRYWALL & PAINTING

New to the Tulsa area! I specialize in drywall repairs, wood repairs, matching textures, painting interior/exterior. Insured and Free estimates. Help us grow in the Tulsa community or in your community!! Call John at (918) 600-9129.

In a Jam? Services

Around the home repairs or replacements, inside and out. Fence Repair/Replacement, Power Washing, Gutter Cleanout, Garage/ Attic Cleanout, Haul-off, Leaf/ Snow Removal, Staining/Painting, Drywall Patching/Replacement, Tile/ Flooring, Deck Repair, and much more! No job is too small. Have any questions, please give me a call. Joe Moody (918) 740-7209 INAJAMSERVICES77@gmail.com

KMS Heating & Cooling

Locally owned since 1979, KMS is proud to be your new HVAC provider! Your comfort is our top priority, and our team of experienced technicians and staff are dedicated to providing you with prompt, reliable, and personalized service for all your residential and commercial HVAC needs. (918) 834-7000. www.kmshvac.com

Same Day Services

Light Hauling /Light Moving – help you rearrange room furniture, lawns-grass mowing/small paint jobs/cleanup/ fence repair/light construction/sheet rock tile repair – We are honest and dependable. References. Call (918) 313-5230.

Scrap Metal Haul Off

Free haul off/pick up of appliances such as washers, dryers, refrigerators, air conditioners, hot water tanks and any scrap metal. Call John at (918) 313-4405.

LEGAL

75 Years Experience in Oklahoma Courts

Frasier Law Firm is a full-service Tulsa firm with decades of experience in all Oklahoma courts. We handle all matters, including probate, wills and trusts, personal injury and negligence cases. We have estate planning specialists. Reach us at (918) 584-4724 or frasier@tulsa.com.

Full Service Estate Planning Law Firm

Trusts, Wills, Gift and Tax Planning, Powers of Attorneys and more! With offices in Sand Springs and

Tulsa. Discount to Veterans and Retired Teachers. Willing to meet you in your place for no extra charge! Call Penni of the Skillern Law Firm at (918) 805-2511. www.skillernlaw.com

Protect Your Family.

Preserve Your Legacy. Whether you are planning your estate or need help with a loved one who may be financially exploited, South Tulsa Law will represent you effectively and compassionately. We work in all areas of estate planning and probate, trusts and trust litigation, guardianship, and elder exploitation. Call (918) 512-1800 or visit www.southtulsalaw.com.

MOVERS

Stewart & Stewart Moving, LLC

Local, family owned and operated moving business for all your moving needs. We’re licensed and insured. We offer packing, moving and unpacking. Local and long distance moves. Call us today for an estimate or to schedule (918) 759-7212

Tulsa Movers

Pianos, Office, Home. Load or Unload Rental Trucks. Low Rates. Free Estimates. Senior Discounts. Dependable Movers! Call (918) 836-3225.

NOTARY

Notary Services Available

24/7 Notary available. Never closed. Will come to your home. Will go to hospitals, nursing homes, private homes as needed. Call Joanne at (918) 282-8230.

PERSONAL ASSISTANCE

Administrative and Personal Secretarial Support

Handle mail, pay bills, balance checkbooks, make phone calls, schedule appointments, setup filing system, create spreadsheets, write/ edit letters, type documents/reports, provide internet ‘online’ research. The Warshaw Group, LLC, Bobbi Warshaw, MPH and Bob Warshaw, MBA. Contact at (918) 852-5302 or email bobbi.warshaw@att.net.

AFFORDABLE ORGANIZING

Too busy to stay organized?

Overwhelmed? Return harmony to your home and life. We help with: Downsizing, relocating (pack & unpack). Set up home office, nurseries, dorms. One room or entire house. Monthly maintenance. Disperse unwanted possessions, electronics, chemicals. Seasonal transitioning. Prepare for guests. Call Pat at Organize to Harmonize: (918) 200-5991.

Home Health Services

Tulsa’s Affordable Home Care offers compassionate, quality home care services to individuals. We provide the following services: personal care, bathing and dressing, companionship, exercise, grocery shopping, laundry, light housekeeping, medication reminders, meal planning and preparation, oral and

personal hygiene, respite care for family caregivers. Please call (918) 622-7820 and schedule a free consultation!!!

Ms PAC Ma’am

Need help packing or organizing?

I can pack boxes for moving, downsizing, or decluttering. I can help organize rooms, closets, attics, or garages providing you more space. Flexible hours – day or evening. Lots of experience. References available. $25/hr - 2 hr minimum. Boxes/bags provided upon request. Jacki (918) 922-9558.

Rush By Your Side

Looking for help with your loved one? Caregivers, Registered LTC's/CNA's/HHA's, all with excellent references and 5+ years’ experience. Days/Nights, Long Term/Short Term, errands/ appointments/companionship. Taking a vacation or need a day off?

Rush By Your Side could be your solution! Call Kami Rush (918) 810-6738.

Trustworthy Chauffeur, Cook, Handyman in One!

Let me make your life easier by helping your loved one live independently. A former chauffeur with background in security, skilled in nutrition and a personal cook. Will run errands with/for your loved one and go to all appointments. I can do minor handy work and housecleaning when needed. Prefer Monday-Saturday. References furnished including most previous distinguished employer of 11 years. Call or text Rex at (918) 510-0091.

Vibrant/Senior/Male/Caregiver

Seeking a position in your own home as a Companion/Caregiver. Many years of experience in: Skilled Care, Rehab, Assisted Living, and Memory Care. Professional References provided upon request. I can be reached for further information at (918) 855-9546.

PERSONAL SAFETY

Safety Grab Bar Supply and Installation

Including handicap accessories for Residential, Commercial, Decorative, Indoor/Outdoor, Stairways, Bathrooms, and more. Secure your space, whether existing, remodeling or new construction, we handle it all. Call before you fall! Free Estimates. Licensed & Insured with over 20 years experience. Grab Bars of Tulsa, (918) 619-7324.

PERSONAL SERVICES

Affordable Hairstyling

In-Home or My Shop

With 37 years’ experience, I can help with all of your hairstyling needs. Men's and women's haircuts, specializing in seniors. I will come to your home or you can come to my shop. In-shop special: haircut $7 for first time customers only and perms for $50. Available Tuesday –Saturday. A Mane Event hairstyling, located near 11th and Yale at 937 South Canton. Call Mary Wilkinson at (918) 834-2686

Salon Retro

Hair care for men and women, specializing in senior clients. This month’s special - First time customers receive one of the following for $15: Haircut or Manicure. $50 for one cut and perm. Pedicures are $25. Very Experienced Hairdressers! In shop services only, come see us in Midtown at Highland Plaza, 5661 East 41st Street (corner of 41st and Hudson). (918) 742-3440.

PET CARE

Dog Walker

The Woof Pack Tulsa: Dependable dog walking services for your four-legged family in Tulsa. Helping you take care of your furry friends when you’re out! We offer dog walking and pet pop-ins. Insured. Call or text us at (918) 770-6699. Visit our website at www.thewoofpacktulsa.com.

Home Veterinary Care

Experience Tulsa’s most convenient veterinary service in the comfort of your own home. Our goal is to develop a personal relationship with each of our clients and patients. Contact us today to schedule your house call appointment. Call (918) 892-9382 or email DrFielstra@gmail.com or visit us at www.homevetcaretulsa.com.

Laura’s Boarding & Dog Walking Services

40 years experience.

Veterinary Assistant experience. Friendly, safe, fenced-in environment (.25 acre yard). Daily exercise provided, first aid, CPR, CNA, senior dog experience. Can administer oral and injection medications. I’m attentive, playful, kind and caring. Daily photos of your furry friend sent to you by text. References available. (918) 812-8001.

REALTOR/ REAL ESTATE

Mature Transitions of Tulsa Downsizing, Decluttering, Move Management, Estate Sales, Selling the Family Home. Call today (918) 605-1480.

www.MatureTransitionsofTulsa.com.

SOCIAL

Single Seniors (50+)

We are a fun-loving group of seniors over 50. We meet every Thursday, 11:15 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the Golden Corral, 8144 East 21st Street. We eat at 11:15, have a short meeting and then play cards. Join us for great fun and fellowship. Questions, call Linda at (918) 955-9180.

STAYCATION GETAWAYS

Spring Getaway!

Treat yourself to a Spring Getaway with a relaxing stay. Meadowlake Ranch offers authentic log cabins (complete with private patios & waterfront views) and breakfast delivered to your cabin. Enjoy bank fishing, walking trails, & s'mores by the fire! Also, family and corporate venues available. We are located just 15 minutes from Downtown Tulsa, & 20 minutes from Keystone Lake. Book online or call Susie

at (918) 494-6000. Visit www.Meadowlakeranch.com or email meadowlakeranch@cox.net.

TRANSPORTATION

My Driver Transportation Service

Let me do the driving. To and from work, airport, shopping, errands, post office, appointments. Also, LIFT VAN transportation available. Able to assist getting to and from bed. Senior sitting. Also, small breed dog boarding. 20 years experience. CLEET certified and licensed. References. Member, Better Business Bureau. (918) 491-9929.

PREMIUM SENIOR TRANSPORT

NOW AVAILABLE

Entrusted Transport provides non-emergency medical & senior transportation services throughout Oklahoma. Our drivers are courteous & highly professional. We assist riders all the way to check-in at your appointment OR to home, just like family would! Wheelchair vehicles available. Call (918) 290-3400, Schedule Rides Any Date & Time. EntrustedTransport.com.

TRAVEL

ONLY 50 CENTS A MILE!!

6 days/5 nights bus tour to Cincinnati area attractions July 15-20. The Ark Encounter, Creation Museum, and Cincinnati Museum Center/ OMNIMAX Show. Includes all transportation, room, 8 meals, all admissions, driver tip, snacks, and more. $780 double/$989 single. Visit www.GroupTrips.com/ ChristChurchExplorers for more information.

VOLUNTEER

JUST DO IT!

If you’ve been looking for a way you can make a difference, consider joining the Millennium Hospice team as a volunteer. Caregiver relief is so important during this difficult time. Volunteers provide that by sitting with patients for an hour or so. Training is provided. (918) 493-6555.

Volunteer for LIFE

Discover the variety of volunteer opportunities that LIFE Senior Services has to offer. Whether you want to volunteer within the organization or with one of our local non-profit or public agencies, we can find the best fit for you. (918) 664-9000.

Tribute donations to support the work of

William Bailie

In Memory of Myrna Bailie

Cameron Glass Inc

In Memory of Mike Baker

Tyrus Hogan

In Memory of Priscilla Hogan

Judi Hurlburt

In Memory of Mora Kenyon, RN

Sue Jackson

In Memory of Donnie Jackson, Jr

Doris McGuire

In Memory of Irvin McGuire

Carolyn Powers

In Memory of Robert S. Powers

Anonymous In Memory of Marion Noldt

Anonymous In Memory of Mike Baker

APRIL ANSWERS

For puzzles, see pages 30-31

SUDOKU

664-9000, ext. 1206 or bdornblaser@LIFEseniorservices.org

The right time for the right Medicare Advantage plan.

more about Senior Health Plan—the only Medicare Advantage plan

in-network access to the four premier health care systems in northeast Oklahoma. Our plans have the benefits you want and deserve, including:

3 In-network access to Ascension

John, Hillcrest, OSU Medical Center and Saint Francis

3 $0 monthly premium*

3 $0 PCP copay

3 $0 Tier 1 drugs

3 Over-the-counter medicine benefit

3 Dental and vision

3 Flex Card for choosing fitness memberships

*Other

Roasted Potatoes & Carrots

Recipe courtesy of Spend with Pennies

Ingredients:

• 1 & ½ pounds potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes

• 1 pound of carrots, peeled

• 1 onion, diced

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.

2. Cut potatoes and carrots into chunks, approximately the same size.

3. Toss potatoes, carrots, and onions with olive oil and Italian Seasoning. Season with salt and pepper.

4. Place on a large pan and roast for 45 – 50 minutes or until tender.

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch thin asparagus

• 4 hard-boiled eggs

• 1 avocado

• ¼ cup plain yogurt

Asparagus Egg Salad Tea Sandwiches

Recipe courtesy of Food Network

• ¼ cup mayonnaise

• Minced red onion

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• Salt and pepper

• Whole wheat bread

Instructions:

1. Trim and cut asparagus into ½-inch pieces, and cook in salted boiling water until crisp but tender, about 2 minutes.

2. Drain asparagus and transfer to ice water to cool; drain and pat dry.

3. Mix with all remaining ingredients except for salt, pepper, and bread.

4. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Spread between bread slices; trim the crusts and cut into triangles.

Four Ingredient Potato Soup

Recipe courtesy of Spend with Pennies

Ingredients:

• 8 cups diced potatoes

• 3 cans condensed cream soup – any kind except for cream of mushroom

• 3 cups evaporated milk

• Seasonings to your taste – Salt, pepper, garlic or onion powder, dried minced onions, Mrs. Dash

Optional Toppings:

• Bacon, Shredded Cheese, Chopped Green Onions, Sour Cream

Instructions:

1. Place potatoes in large pot and add 2 cups water. Season to taste, then boil until potatoes are tender, about 10 – 15 minutes. Do not drain.

2. Combine canned soups and evaporated milk in a large bowl. Stir into cooked potatoes, then set over medium heat and simmer for 3 – 5 minutes to heat through

3. Check for seasoning, then serve with your favorite toppings.

Ingredients:

• 4 red potatoes, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ cup milk

• 1 teaspoon salt

Microwave Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Recipe courtesy of Tasty

• 1 tablespoon butter

• Pepper to taste

• Fresh chive, chopped for garnish

Directions:

1. In a medium bowl, add the potatoes and garlic and stir until evenly combined

2. Microwave for 13 minutes. Remove from microwave.

3. Combine the milk, salt and butter and stir to combine in a separate bowl.

4. Pour the milk mixture over the potatoes.

5. Microwave for 2 minutes.

6. Remove from microwave and mash the potatoes with a fork.

7. Add the pepper and stir to incorporate

8. Garnish with chives or fresh herbs.

IN THE PHOTOS

1. Weather Bureau electronics specialist Thomas D. Whitely working with a WSR-57 weather radar antenna.

2. The two-story former Navy barracks building housed NSSP's Weather Radar Laboratory and then NSSL from 1962-1972.

3. Doppler radar system photos from the National Severe Storms Laboratory in Norman.

4. Doppler radar system photos from the National Severe Storms Laboratory in Norman.

4.

3.

1.

IN THE PHOTOS

1. The chase car used during the intercept of the Union City, OK tornado.

2. Union City, OK tornado on May 24, 1973.

3. Dish installation on the permanent Doppler building.

4. NSSL's Don Burgess explains color displays of Doppler radar to the press.

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4.