LIFE's Vintage Newsmagazine - August 2023

Today’s modern world has seen great growth in a variety of industries, but none so vast and quick as the world of aging services. People are living longer; and as Baby Boomers enter their senior years, the world of aging services continues to grow at an unprecedented rate. Today’s seniors are fortunate to have a myriad of residential care alternatives, as well as home and community-based services to help them continue to live safely and independently in their homes for as long as possible. LIFE Senior Services understands that navigating the wide array of aging services can be daunting, and LIFE is pleased to present the 2023-24 edition of LIFE’s Vintage Guide to Housing & Services.

TO

& SERVICES

Helping Seniors and Families Navigate Aging Options and Resources Resources

The annual publication, which released in July, is northeast Oklahoma’s most comprehensive collection of senior resources and is an invaluable tool for older adults and family caregivers, as well as social workers and other professionals who work with older adults.

The 2023-24 Vintage Guide is a 198-page, full-color publication that features nearly 300 housing options categorized by level-of-care; more than 260 healthcare, hospice, and specialty services, including local adult day health programs and funeral and cremation services; plus more than 600 communitybased services. The publication also includes 22 articles which address some of the most frequently asked questions concerning aging issues, as well as checklists for comparing different housing, healthcare and hospice options.

We invite you to pick up your FREE copy at any LIFE Senior Services location (listed below), area CVS and Reasor’s stores. Free copies of LIFE’s Vintage Guide are also available at all 24 Tulsa City-County libraries, the Will Rogers (Claremore), as well as in Catoosa, and Coweta libraries. Additionally, a digital version is available online at LIFE’s website, www.LIFEseniorservices.org under the Education/Resources tab. The online version is fully searchable, offers reader-friendly navigation and a variety of viewing and printing tools.

LIFE Senior Services is always here to help when you have questions about senior issues or are looking for solutions to aging challenges. Call LIFE’s SeniorLine at (918) 664-9000 for more information about LIFE’s Vintage Guide or help navigating the publication.

14 Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

Find out how you can reduce the negative environmental impact your lifestyle has on the planet.

BY LINDSAY MORRIS

18

Gardening for Climate Change

Make the earth happy in your little corner of the world by following these tips for sustainable gardening.

BY JOEY MECHELLE FARQUE

22 Green Living On A Budget

Worried that eco-friendly living means expensive products and practices? Here are some practical and inexpensive ways to go green.

BY ERIN SHACKELFORD

Eco-Friendly Fashion

If you like to spend your dollars to support sustainable businesses, the fashion world is making it easy for you. You won’t have to sacrifice style while saving the planet.

BY KAREN SZABO

On the Cover

Tulsan Earl Stripling tells us how his garden grows on page 18.

PHOTO BY BETH HAWKINS

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eileen.bradshaw@LIFEseniorservices.org

Letter From Eileen

Dear Vintage Reader,

Welcome to our sustainability issue. I think we can all agree that we want our world to be sustainable – after all, it is in our self-interest. Although I am wholeheartedly in support of taking measures to live a sustainable lifestyle, I will admit that at times I am overwhelmed by the topic. When I read about global warming or listen to a talk on carbon reduction, I feel the gravitas but have to resist the impulse to turn my attention away. My unease can quickly become inertia, helping no one.

I hope you are a bold visionary, intrepid in your sustainable efforts. But if you are reading this and also struggle with how to make a difference, this issue may inspire you to take those first steps.

(918) 664-9000

www.LIFEseniorservices.org

Everyone eats, and reducing our food waste is one of the simplest and most important things we can do for the environment. I never intend to waste food. Food is expensive and wasting it doesn’t make moral or economic sense. Yet I do throw food away. Sometimes, it might be because I buy a larger size of an item because it’s a lower price. Sometimes, I buy something on impulse with good intentions but just never work it into the week’s meals. Maybe the expiration date on the milk arrives before it’s all gone.

So many innocuous reasons, but the results aren’t so innocuous. When we waste food, we waste not only that item but all of the resources that went into producing it. For example, pouring a glass of milk down the

drain wastes nearly 1,000 liters of water, according to the National Resource Defense Council. Food waste ends up wasting a quarter of our water supply in the form of uneaten food. The food left to decay in our landfills releases methane. Methane from food waste contributes to 20% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Growing food that is ultimately thrown away is projected to use up to 21% of our freshwater, 18% of our cropland, and 21% of our landfill volume globally. This is an area I can focus on. The impact of my household changes may be minor, but collectively our efforts can make a real difference.

Another way to help our dear planet can double as a fun hobby. As you are no doubt aware, our pollinators are the heroes of our environment, and yet their habitats are shrinking. Planting a pollinator garden helps the bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds do their work, and provides hours of enjoyment as you get to witness these visitors to your garden. No yard? No worries! Native plants planted in a pot on your balcony or porch can serve the purpose. Bats are also pollinators. Who knew? Providing bat boxes gives them safe shelter and encourages their efforts. In these pages, you will find many ways to contribute to the sustainability of our world. I hope you find ways that resonate!

Best,

Vol. 38, No. 2

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

LEAH WEIGLE

Graphic Designer

CAROL CARTER

Copy Editor

DICK MCCANDLESS

STAN DIACON

Community Distribution

LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine 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 Newsmagazine reserves the right to refuse advertising. Rates are available upon request by calling (918) 664-9000.

© LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine and LIFE Senior Services, Inc., 2023. All rights reserved. Reproduction without consent of the publisher is prohibited.

Volume 38, Issue 2, August 2023

LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine (ISSN 2168-8494) (USPS 18320) is published monthly by LIFE Senior Services, 5950 E. 31st St., Tulsa, OK 74135. Periodicals postage paid at Tulsa, OK.

Eileen Bradshaw President and CEO LIFE Senior Services, LIFE PACE, Vintage Housing

Eileen Bradshaw, President and

This Month in History

AUGUST

1, 1944: Anne Frank Writes Last Diary Entry

Anne Frank, a 15-year-old Jewish girl, wrote in her diary for two years while she and seven others lived in a secret annex while hiding out in Nazi-controlled Holland. Anne wrote her final entry three days before they were discovered and placed in concentration camps. Her father was the only survivor. He later published the now best-selling diary that has become a symbol of the Holocaust.

AUGUST 12, 1990: Largest Tyrannosaurus Rex Skeleton Discovered

Fossil hunter Susan Hendrickson noticed three huge bones sticking out of a cliff in South Dakota. The bones were part of the largest Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton ever found which was more than 90% complete. The 65-million-year-old specimen was named Sue after its discoverer. Sue was the first T. Rex skeleton to be found with a wishbone, supporting scientists’ theory that birds are a living type of dinosaur.

AUGUST 24,

2006: Pluto Loses Planetary Status

Following days of debate, the International Astronomical Union demoted Pluto from its status as the ninth planet from the Sun to a dwarf planet. IAU members voted to redefine what qualifies as a planet and Pluto did not meet the new criteria for a full-sized planet. Some astronomers questioned this decision, pointing out that less than 5% of the world’s astronomers participated in this vote.

AUGUST 15, 1969: Woodstock

Festival Opens

The Woodstock Festival opened its gates on a patch of farmland in Bethel, New York. Notable performers included The Who, Jimi Hendrix, and the Grateful Dead. Organizers estimated 200,000 attendees, but more than twice that showed up on Friday morning. The event was supposed to raise funds for a recording studio and rock-androll retreat, but organizers were forced to make the event free with so many sneaking in.

AUGUST 31, 1997: Princess Diana Dies in

Car Crash

The Princess of Wales died in a car crash along with her boyfriend, Dodi Fayed, and the driver, Henri Paul. The couple left their Paris hotel just after midnight and were tailed by paparazzi on motorcycles. About three minutes later, Paul lost control of the vehicle and crashed into a pillar. “The People’s Princess” was declared dead at 6 a.m. at only 36 years old.

AUGUST 29, 1958: Michael Jackson is Born

“The King of Pop” quickly rose to fame as a child, along with his four brothers, in the pop group The Jackson 5. Michael scored his first number-one single at only 11 years old with the group’s song, "I Want You Back." His solo career was even more impressive with "Thriller" becoming the best-selling album ever. Jackson passed away in 2009 at 50 years old.

Entries of ornamental peppers are displayed at the Tulsa State Fair in October 1983. Some of the winning gardeners included Rebecca Stevens, Betty Ann Stevens, Joanie McPhetridge, and Jo Fly.

These home-canned vegetables were on display for earning awards at the Tulsa State Fair in October 1983.

Public Service Company of Oklahoma employee Billy Turner is pictured standing in front of a company automobile in 1924.

All photos courtesy of Tulsa Historical Society & Museum

Four electric company linemen work on the power lines of the Afton distribution system in the 1920s.

LIFE EDU “Dealing With Dementia”

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Setting Boundaries PART 1

BY ERIN POWELL, CAREGIVER SUPPORT SPECIALIST

So far in this series, we’ve filled our Caregiver Tool Belt with lots of practical information and resources. We've covered legal documents you might need, how to identify and build your support systems, and the essential questions related to care planning. For the next few months, let’s delve into some of the emotional skills you may want to hone as a caregiver.

Setting Boundaries

One critical skill you will need to practice is the concept of setting boundaries. This month, we’ll explore the definition of personal boundaries and discuss some “boundary busters” that can make it very difficult for caregivers to put boundaries in place. Next month, we’ll talk about how to better define and communicate healthy boundaries to the people around you.

We all understand physical boundaries – a fence, a wall, or a sign that blocks off an area as a protected space. Boundaries in our personal lives are the limits we place around our time, emotions, body, energy, and mental health to stay resilient, grounded, and content with who we are.

Recognizing Boundary Busters

So why do so many of us struggle with defining healthy space for ourselves? Here are a few “boundary busters” I run into regularly in my work with caregivers.

1. NOT KNOWING YOUR LIMITS

Setting healthy boundaries starts by knowing and acknowledging your own limitations.

No one wants to be finite, but we all quickly learn that time and energy are precious resources that require conservation. We cannot give 100% to all aspects of our lives – the math simply doesn’t work. If you are giving more energy and attention to one area of your life, another area will have to receive less. Recognition of your own limitations, however frustrating, will be immensely helpful as you seek to define a healthy space for you and the person for whom you are caring.

2. PERFECTIONISM

Whether it’s a trait we were born with, or one carefully crafted over time (usually to help avoid the criticism of others), perfectionism and caregiving simply can’t coexist.

There are too many variables, too many people and personalities, and often the caregiving situation isn’t stagnant – it changes regularly. Trying to find the perfect care plan, plan the perfect daily routine, or just generally be the perfect caregiver will quickly lead you down the path to bitterness and never-ending frustration. Embrace the "good-enough."

3. PEOPLE-PLEASING AND CODEPENDENCY

If you have trouble saying no or regularly give in to unreasonable demands, you may have issues with codependency and people-pleasing.

Codependency (in its most pared down definition) means that much of your self-worth is dependent on how others perceive you. Though these patterns can start from a kind and loving place – “I care about you and want you to be happy” – if, over time, your own sense of self begins to hinge on the people around you, the patterns of communication and behavior you

develop around this need can quickly become draining and self-defeating.

Working to define your self-worth apart from others, voicing your wants and needs out loud, and allowing others to have thoughts and feelings that are different from yours are all part of the hard work necessary to break these patterns. Please don’t hesitate to get some help with this if you are struggling! A therapist can be a great resource in this journey.

4.

GIVING IN TO GUILT

Sometimes we are our own worst enemy. With all my work with caregivers, I find that guilt is one of the most powerful emotions that many caregivers face.

It can also make it extremely difficult to draw emotional boundaries and create a healthy mental space while caregiving. One difficulty with this emotion is that feelings of guilt can be normal and tied to the grief that many caregivers are experiencing. However, when guilt starts calling the shots, dragging you down into deep depression, or you find yourself unable to experience any joy without spiraling into despair, it’s time to put guilt back in its proper place. Normalize the feelings, but don’t let guilt run the show. Remember we are all doing our best with what we have at any given point.

THE REWARDS

Though these hurdles can make setting boundaries more challenging, none is insurmountable. I have seen many caregivers begin the hard work of improving their mental health while caregiving. Long after their caregiving journey has ended, the skills they build remain, and caregivers continue to reap the rewards.

Understanding How Medicare Works With Employer-Based Coverage

By Kathy Jones, Medicare Assistance Program Manager at LIFE Senior Services

As more people continue to work past age 65 and receive employer health benefits, they have questions about their Medicare coverage. Learning how Medicare works with your current employer's insurance can help you decide if you want to sign up for Medicare when you become eligible.

When you have Medicare and another type of insurance, Medicare will either pay primary or secondary for your medical costs. Primary insurance pays first for your medical bills. Secondary insurance pays after your primary insurance. Usually, secondary insurance pays some or all of the costs left after your primary insurance has paid (for example, deductibles, co-insurance, and copays).

ACTIVE EMPLOYER GROUP HEALTH PLAN COVERAGE

Employer insurance is coverage you have from your or your spouse’s current work.

If you are eligible for Medicare because you are 65 or older and you have Active Employer Group Health Plan (EGHP) coverage:

• If your employer has 20+ employees, the Employer Group Health Plan is primary, and Medicare would become secondary.

• If your employer has fewer than 20 employees, Medicare would be primary, and your employer insurance would be secondary.

If your Active EGHP will be primary, you may decide to delay Medicare enrollment because you already have primary coverage. If your Active EGHP will be secondary, you may want to enroll in Medicare when you’re eligible to avoid high costs for your care. If Medicare is your primary coverage, your job-based coverage may provide little or no coverage if you are not enrolled in Medicare. Speak with the employer that offers coverage to see if you need to sign up for Medicare Part A and Part B.

If you are turning 65 and are covered by Active EGHP and your insurance does not require you to sign up for Medicare, you can delay signing up for Part B and will not pay a penalty. You will have a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) to enroll in Medicare at any time, while covered by the employer plan or up to eight months after you are without employer coverage. To avoid gaps in coverage, it is often wise to sign up during the month before your employer coverage ends.

RETIREE INSURANCE

You might also be eligible for retiree insurance which is a form of health coverage an employer may provide to former employees. Retiree insurance is almost always secondary to Medicare. Because of this, you should enroll in Medicare to be fully covered. If you have retiree benefits before you are Medicare eligible, some retiree policies require you to sign up for Medicare once you become eligible.

Deciding whether to keep retiree coverage after

LIFE'S MEDICARE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

you enroll in Medicare is a personal choice that depends on your costs and anticipated healthcare needs. Retiree coverage may also pay for care or other items and services that Medicare does not cover, such as vision care, dental care, and/or offformulary or over-the-counter prescription drugs. If the plan offers prescription drug coverage that you like, find out if the coverage is creditable and if you can delay Medicare.

PART D ENROLLMENT WITHOUT PENALTY

Retiree insurance may coordinate with Medicare differently depending on the type of plan you have.

Some retiree insurance plans offer Medicare Advantage Plans or group Medigap policies for their Medicare-eligible retirees. These plans often combine your Medicare and retiree health benefits. Some require that you join their sponsored Medicare Advantage Plan to continue getting retiree health benefits after becoming Medicare eligible. You can always choose not to take your employer’s coverage and sign up for Original Medicare or a different Medicare Advantage or Medigap, but keep in mind you may not be able to get the retiree coverage back if you want it later.

For more information on the services covered by your retiree insurance plan, contact your benefits administrator or your employer’s human resources department.

Sources: www.medicareinteractive.org, www.medicare.gov

Everyone’s path to Medicare coverage is different, and navigating through the timelines and understanding the process can seem overwhelming. The Medicare Assistance Program (MAP) at LIFE is here to help! Give MAP a call at (918) 664-9000, ext. 1189 or toll-free at (866) 664-9009.

LIFE’s Adult Day Health

Safe, affordable daytime care for older adults.

LIFE’s Adult Day Health provides services and support to older adults who have physical or cognitive impairments and need assistance during the day. Programming includes group exercise, nutritious meals, social activities, brain fitness activities, arts, crafts, music and more.

For more information call LIFE’s SeniorLine (918) 664-9000 or visit www.LIFEseniorservices.org.

REDUCING YOUR CARBON FOOTPRINT

The phrase “reducing your carbon footprint” isn’t going away anytime soon. Carbon footprint is a measure of how much carbon dioxide and other carbon compounds a person or business emits, largely due to the consumption of fossil fuels.

WHAT’S THE LATEST ON CLIMATE CHANGE?

Climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns. Such shifts can be natural; for example, changes in the sun’s activity or large volcanic eruptions. However, the major driver of climate change since the 1800s has been human activities, primarily due to the burning of fossil fuels like coal, oil, and gas, according to UN.org.

Burning fossil fuels creates greenhouse gas emissions that act like a blanket wrapped around the Earth, trapping the sun’s heat and raising temperatures.

Many greenhouse gases come from using gasoline for driving a car or coal for heating a building, for example. Clearing land and cutting down forests can also release carbon dioxide.

is now about 1.1°C warmer than it was in the late 1800s (when the Industrial Revolution was underway), according to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. The World Meteorological Organization reports that the decade from 2011 to 2020 was the warmest on record, and each of the last four decades has been warmer than any previous decade since 1850.

Many people think climate change mainly means warmer temperatures. However, temperature rise is only the beginning of the story. Because the Earth is a system where everything is connected, changes in one area can influence changes in all others.

The consequences of climate change include intense droughts, water scarcity, severe fires, rising sea levels, flooding, melting polar ice, catastrophic storms, and declining biodiversity.

Here in Oklahoma, it’s hard to say if we have experienced the direct impact of climate change.

could be due to urban heat – having a lot of buildings and not so much green space, Meyer says. In Oklahoma, we have only 120 years of temperature records, Meyer says. “It’s very difficult for me to get excited about the left or right without the data to back it. Climate is always going to change.”

The goal regarding climate change has been to try to avoid a 1.5°C increase in the Earth’s temperature on average, says Corey Wren Williams, executive director of The Sustainability Alliance, which is based in Tulsa. “We’re probably, unfortunately, not going to make it.”

Every country produces greenhouse gases, but some countries produce much more than others. The seven biggest emitters alone (China, the United States of America, India, the European Union, Indonesia, the Russian Federation, and Brazil) accounted for about half of all global

While we can’t control many of the factors driving climate change, each of us can find ways to reduce our carbon footprint by choosing to reduce, reuse, and replant.

“It’s important that we recognize that this is a journey, not a full destination. You don’t rest. You don’t say, ‘Well, I’m done.’”

– Corey Wren Williams, The Sustainability Alliance

greenhouse gas emissions in 2020, according to UN.gov.

While the U.S. cannot stop China, India, or other nations from burning fossil fuels, we can be responsible for our own carbon footprint.

HOW COMPANIES CAN OFFSET THEIR CARBON FOOTPRINT

Companies around the globe are looking for ways to offset their carbon footprint. The first step, according to Williams, should be reduction. “Reduce what you need to use. Reduce energy use. Use more energy-efficient equipment and lighting systems.”

Many companies purchase carbon credits and offset their carbon footprint with replanting and soil carbon sequestration.

Locally, many Oklahomans are reducing their carbon footprint through tree planting with Up with Trees and other programs. The Oklahoma Conservation Commission also focuses on soil sequestration. “Soil is a great place to pull down the carbon and sequester,” Williams said.

If you are interested in finding out whether or not a company is attempting to reduce its carbon footprint, Williams suggested looking for an Environmental Stewardship Governance (ESG) report on its website.

WHAT ARE CONSIDERED SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS PRACTICES?

When you hear the word “sustainable,” you may think of sustainability only in the environmental aspect of the word. Williams says the term “sustainable business practices” encompasses a triple bottom line of people, profit, and planet.

The people aspect of sustainable business practices entails everything from employee engagement, diversity, equity and inclusion, and social justice. The profit aspect of sustainable business practices encompasses bottom-line savings for a business, including energy-efficiency incentives.

The planet aspect of sustainable business practices is what most people think of when they think of sustainability, Williams said. This could mean recycling, reducing, composting, water conservation, energy efficiency, and buying locally.

A MEETING OF HOPE

TREATMENT WITH DR. JAMES WEBB

Why did you choose Dr. Webb?

I have been going to him for so long now, but I think it was word of mouth, I believe a friend was talking about him.

What procedure did you have done?

I have had a few things done, but the most recent thing is RFA. It has helped tremendously. I can get up and go anywhere I want. Before I went to Dr. Webb, I couldn’t get around much without pain

What was your experience like?

It was great, Dr. Webb monitors my pain and I see him every few months for maintenance. The Procedure has helped with my pain so much, as a matter of fact, I told him as long as he keeps me playing golf, we would be good buddies!

Would you recommend Dr. Webb?

Yes, I sure would and I have!

L Walters, Satisfied Patient

Oklahoma is currently 6th in the nation for potential wind energy.

Choosing to buy locally-grown produce at places like the Tulsa Farmers Market reduces your carbon footprint because fewer "food miles" are needed to get items to your table. Your money also supports local growers.

HOW CAN INDIVIDUALS OFFSET THEIR CARBON FOOTPRINT?

Want to offset your carbon footprint? Reduce. What can you do to limit your home energy usage and your global purchases?

“Once you’ve made your systems as efficient as possible, you can look at renewable energy as a potential,” Williams said.

Through Public Service Company of Oklahoma (PSO), individuals and families can opt into using renewable energy to power their homes. You can choose a percentage of wind energy by enrolling in their WindChoice program, for example. Oklahoma is currently 6th in the nation for potential wind energy. “Solar is starting to trend up as well,” Williams said.

You can also reduce your carbon footprint by choosing to buy locally. “If you go to the farmer’s market, you’re investing in local families that grow food for you to eat,” Williams said. “If you invest in local companies, that dollar gets reinvested approximately 15 more times in your local community. At a chain, that dollar gets reinvested only four more times in your community.”

Additionally, when you buy local foods, your food has fewer food miles on it. Food miles are the distance that food travels before you buy it. “If you buy something from across the ocean, you have to calculate that in your environmental footprint.”

Most food bought locally has about 50 food miles, Williams says.

While efforts are being made by governments, institutions, and individuals to combat climate change, much is still left to be done. “It’s important that we recognize that this is a journey, not a full destination. You don’t rest. You don’t say, ‘Well, I’m done.’ It’s a constant review and renewal of those commitments and improvements.”

Meyer said he thinks individuals would be more aware of the need for sustainability if they spent more time outdoors. As society has evolved since the industrial and technological revolutions, most people have stopped spending significant amounts of time outdoors.

“If people were outside more, they would appreciate the importance of the ozone more. We can all do our part instead of finger-pointing,” Meyer said.

Sustainability Resources

1. The TerraScore Sustainability App

This app was developed by The Sustainability Alliance and provides challenges for individuals to improve their bodies, communities, and planet. You earn points and build camaraderie by completing simple, real-life actions. Download it in the Apple Store or Google Play.

2. Scor3card®

Scor3card® is The Sustainability Alliance’s signature business program, allowing organizations to realize measurable results on their triple bottom line: people, profit, and planet. Scor3card is a sustainability tracking and assessment tool that enables organizations to track 54 directives and over 80 key performance indicators. You can learn more by visiting thesustainabilityalliance.org.

Sustainable Techniques for the Home Gardener

BY JOEY MECHELLE FARQUE

PHOTOS BY BETH HAWKINS

If you are a home gardener, you can use your green thumb to give back to the Earth that has nourished us for so long. If you’re seeking a way to utilize your gardening skills for a noble cause, look no further – the battle against climate change begins right in your backyard.

Beneath your home garden lies a hidden force that can transform cities and combat climate change: soil. While we often overlook its significance, soil holds immense potential. It provides a foundation for thriving gardens, nurtures plants, and contributes to a greener environment.

SUPER SOIL

There’s more to soil than meets the eye. It plays a vital role in the global carbon cycle, acting as a natural carbon storage system.

Your plants are like veritable superheroes, with the sun as the sidekick. Plants turn carbon dioxide into glucose through photosynthesis. This glucose not only fuels their growth but also nourishes the soil. And guess what? Soil can store carbon for years, keeping it out of the atmosphere. With smarter soil management, you can trap a significant portion of greenhouse gases that would otherwise heat our planet.

By conducting a soil test, home gardeners can make informed decisions about fertilization, promote responsible lawn care, and protect our precious water resources.

Tulsa Urban Gardener Earl Stripling suggested checking with your local county extension office to get a soil test and learn what grows best in your soil

and zone – all zones throughout the country are different. In a world facing climate change, adapting your garden to be more sustainable is good for the Earth and enriching for your gardening journey.

GARDENING LIFE

Joining online classes, community gardens, or gardening groups is a fantastic way to learn and connect with fellow gardeners who are often eager to help, especially if you’re a beginner. “Collective gardening efforts not only foster learning but contribute significantly to climate action, countering the industrial emissions prevalent in various regions,” Stripling elaborated.

Spring and summer present the perfect opportunity for seniors to engage in the fulfilling activity of gardening. Not only is it enjoyable, but it also offers numerous health benefits. Studies have shown that gardening lowers stress, increases serotonin levels, promotes heart health, reduces the risk of stroke, improves mobility, and boosts brain health.

“Take your time; research the kind of garden you want to invest in,” Stripling explained. “It’s not hard – it’s relaxing, educational and fun – and you can eat nutrient-dense food and maybe even boost your health.”

By tending to your garden, you can take care of yourself while positively impacting the future.

Harness the power of sustainable gardening to combat climate change right in your own backyard.

PLANT NOW FOR A BETTER FUTURE

Trees and shrubs store carbon for years in their wooden structures. Not to mention, planting trees around your home doubles as a natural thermostat, reducing energy demands for heating and cooling.

Growing your own herbs, fruits, and vegetables does more than please your palate; it boosts soil carbon and snips away emissions from packaging, refrigeration, and transport.

ADAPT WATERING ROUTINES

Home gardeners can sustain their watering routines by employing smart irrigation practices. Using a drip irrigation system or soaker hoses can ensure water is delivered directly to the plant roots, minimizing waste. Additionally, watering during the early morning or late afternoon reduces evaporation. Collecting rainwater in barrels for later use is another excellent way to conserve water and provide your plants with natural, untreated water, contributing to a more sustainable garden.

Tulsa Urban Gardener Earl Stripling suggests finding a way to catch rainwater for feeding and harvesting the plants. “We cannot control the weather, so I think we need to do the best we can to get water from whatever resources we have,” he said.

COMPOST FOR RICH REWARDS

Composting is nature’s way of recycling. By turning leaves, clippings, and kitchen scraps into compost, you’re reducing waste and feeding the soil’s microscopic custodians. Compost replaces synthetic fertilizers and is far more delightful for earthworms and microorganisms.

EMBRACE NO-TILL GARDENING

Tilling the soil is akin to barging into a bustling city and tossing everything into disarray. Soil microbes, crucial for carbon storage, thrive in stable environments. Instead of tilling, lay a blanket of organic matter, such as mulch or compost, over the soil. This keeps the microscopic metropolis thriving and captures more carbon.

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2 3 4 5 6

JUST SAY NO TO LAWNS

Traditional lawns are like that villainous character in old Westerns - you know, the guy with the shifty eyes, ornery smirk, and a mustache curled on the ends. While seemingly green, traditional lawns can be environmental villains, consuming copious amounts of water, fertilizers, and pesticides. Show your lawn the path to redemption by reducing these inputs and even consider replacing parts of it with trees, shrubs, or vegetable gardens.

SOW AND REAP THE JOY

There’s something deeply satisfying about plucking a ripe tomato from your garden.

“There are a lot of vegetables that are easy to grow, and there will be a lot of trial and error as you learn,” Stripling said. “But you must start somewhere, and you can go to YouTube and search out the easiest vegetables to grow.”

PROVIDE A HAVEN FOR POLLINATORS

Flowers aren’t just easy on the eyes; they are crucial in attracting bees and other pollinators. These tiny heroes play a significant role in our ecosystem. Design your garden to be a refuge for them by planting flowers and herbs like lavender, sage, or sunflowers.

“You can enhance your garden by planting a diverse array of flowers to attract a multitude of pollinators and incorporating flowering vegetables to further invite beneficial insects,” Stripling explained. “However, be vigilant of harmful insects too.”

EMBRACE DIVERSITY: A GARDEN CORNUCOPIA

Diversity is not just the spice of life; it’s the backbone of a resilient garden. Mix in ornamentals, ground covers, and native plants. This vibrant tapestry of life creates a robust soil ecosystem that is better at storing carbon and supporting healthy plants. When you plant herbs, fruits, and vegetables, know that you are planting life-sustaining food for you and your loved ones. Stripling points out that cultivating your garden encourages a healthier lifestyle, so choose wisely for a healthier and more sustainable life.

CARVE OUT A CARBON-SMART PATH

Wield your tools wisely. Gas-powered equipment is a no-no. Return to the basics with manual tools or opt for electric alternatives. Furthermore, restrain the use of synthetic fertilizers and peat-based soils. Instead, foster a symbiotic relationship with your garden through organic, sustainable practices.

SUSTAIN THE EARTH ONE CHOICE AT A TIME

Each seed nurtured, every tree rooted, and each handful of compost-enriched soil contributes to a sustainable garden that aids in cooling and healing our planet. By thoughtfully choosing what you plant, optimizing water usage, and enriching the soil with compost, you can create a sustainable garden that thrives and positively impacts the larger ecosystem.

TULSA URBAN GARDENER EARL STRIPLING

“Take your time; research the kind of garden you want to invest in. It’s not hard – it’s relaxing, educational and fun –and you can eat nutrient – dense food and maybe even boost your health.”

Thank You To Our Sponsors for Making Celebrate LIFE a Success!

LIFE BEGINS AT 50

LIFE OF THE PARTY

The Hale Family Foundation

LARGER THAN LIFE

Mervin Bovaird Foundation

Alliance Resource Partners, LP

The Anne & Henry Zarrow Foundation Saint Francis Health System

LIFE PRESERVER

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Oklahoma

Melanie and Kevin Burdick

Denise and Bob Rock

Laura and Scott Shepherd

Tulsa Airports Improvement Trust William K. Warren Foundation

LIFE IS GOOD

Linda and Jeff Burns

CommunityCare

Mary and Rob Martinovich

Mabrey Bank

Nancy Mason

Vanessa Neal

Susan and Rod Nordstrom

Alera Group – Oklahoma

Jeanne and John Sturges

United Healthcare VIPcare Clinics

LIFE CHANGING

BancFirst - Jenks

The Barrick Family and Orthopedic and Trauma Services of Oklahoma

Carolyn and Jack Blair, in honor of Rickye Wilson

Nancy and Bruce Bolzle

Eileen and Steve Bradshaw

Shelley and Matt Bradshaw Central Bank

Sarah and John Graves

Jackson Hole Capital Partners and Vast Bank

The Johnson Family Giving Fund

The Honorable Kathy Taylor and Bill Lobeck

Sherry Marcum

Jordan and Sons, LLC

LDKerns Contractors

Carol and Mike McMahon

Billy and Julie McLaughlin

ONE Gas

Pray Walker, Bill Eagleton

Leslie and Bob Pritchard

Public Service Company of Oklahoma

Denise and John Redmond

Saint Simeon’s Senior Community

Selser Schaefer Architects

Charles and Lynn Schusterman

Family Philanthropies

Kala and Gary Sharp

Southwood Landscape & Garden Center

Anonymous Donors

Jerry and Katie Abercrombie

All Star Sports Complex

Air Assurance - Narissa and Mike Rampey

Nancy and Bruce Bolzle

Liz and Phil Burch

Mary Jane Bittick

Mary and Matt Baird

Jennier Buck

Melanie and Kevin Burdick

Eileen and Steve Bradshaw

B'nai Emunah Synagogue

Annie Belton

Baxter's Interurban Grill

Paula Brown

Ben Brown

Beadles Portraits

Rusty Brown

Kathy Crabtree

Susan and Robert Cronk

Teresa Caruso

Carol Clevenger

Charlie Clevenger

Cox Business Convention Center

Circle Cinema

Canoe Brook Assisted Living

Vicki Coleman

Carol Carter

Dianna Doll

Lucie Doll

Bernie Dornblaser

Dee Duren

John Dukewits

Lindsay and Ron Fick

Mike Fogle

Flowers by Morton and Morton

Donna Goodell

J.B Hunt

A Special Thank You to Our 2023 Auction Donors

Hart Beads

Terri and Bill Hirsch

Mark Hoskins

Jen Isted

Jeffrey Evans Design

Roxanne King

Jennifer Lindsay

LIFE's Vintage Newsmagazine

Low Down

Ludger's Catering

Mabrey Bank Private Banking

Sherry Marcum

Montereau

Royce Myers

Mollie and Karl Myers

Carolyn Moore

Terrie McMillan

McElroy Manufacturing, Inc.

Laura McNeese

Marian and Jim McCarthy

Susan and Rod Nordstrom

Jerri and Charlie Nelson

Meg Otterstrom

Oklahoma City Museum of Art

Oklahoma City Thunder

Barbara Parsells

Leslie Pritchard

Pray Walker

Phoenix Cleaners

Philbrook Museum of Art

Patty Roberts

Red Fork Distillery

Reasor's

R Bar and Grill

Denise and Bob Rock

Denise and John Redmond

Tamra Spence

Melanie Stewart

IN APPRECIATION

Southwood Landscape and Garden Center

Sitka Salmon Shares

Vicki Thomas

Jamie Townsend

Tulsa Town Hall

Tulsa Symphony Orchestra

104.5 The Edge

Cassie and Evan Tipton

Tulsa Ballet

Tulsa Zoo

The Vault

Pat Wilson

Mary Sue and Herb Whitney

Rickye Wilson

White Lion

Wild Birds Unlimited

Mandy and Roger Woodruff-Schow

LaShan Williams

Wendy Williams

Nicki Wood

Ed Wilson

Jeanette and Kent Young

Yardvarks

Libby York

Lauren Zeligson

Green Budget LIVING ON A

6 Ways to Lean on Green

We can take actions at home that are eco-friendly, which is very important to combatting climate change and reducing our impact on the planet. Even when we recognize that greener practices positively affect the environment, we may be concerned that green living can have a

At the root of the terms green, eco-friendly, and sustainability is a desire to be environmentally aware and responsible. According to World Atlas, the major difference between green (and eco-friendly) and sustainable is:

• “Green” is strictly concerned with environmental health and refers to any products or processes that positively reduce human impact on the planet. Examples of green practices are eliminating single-use plastics and turning off the lights when you leave a room.

•“Sustainability” includes green concepts, but sustainability is concerned with a whole system, including economic, environmental, and social factors – or profits, planet, and people. Sustainability aims to create a balanced relationship between nature and humans.

While making your home run on solar power is a lovely idea, it can be a big out-of-pocket expense upfront, even if it will save you money later. Easier to implement is simply turning things off or down when you can. Turn off lights when you leave a room, unplug infrequently used appliances, rely more on sunlight to light a room, run a full dishwasher versus handwashing, and adjust the thermostat if you can. Even a few degrees in temperature difference in the summer or winter can mean savings.

2. Reuse & Reduce

Ditch the disposable stuff where you can. Probably the easiest change here is to stop buying bottled water. Purchase reusable drinkware! Other items to ditch are plastic, one-use zipper bags for reusable silicone bags or plastic containers like Tupperware, and replace plastic straws with metal. You can even cut out things like paper napkins and towels by using washable, reusable cloth ones. Another easy idea … bring your own bags to the grocery store. It’s a great way to reduce waste, and we all likely have plenty of reusable totes and bags at the house.

3. Green Your Groceries

Besides growing your own food, the more meals you make with simple, unpackaged (or minimally packaged) ingredients, like fruits, vegetables, grains, meats, eggs, and spices, can help the environment. It’s also important to buy produce that is in season and – even better – locally sourced.

4. Sharing is Caring

Everything we buy has an environmental cost between manufacturing, packaging, shipping, storage, and more. Consider renting something you need versus purchasing it. From checking out books, movies, and more from your local library or renting things like tools, equipment, or even a fancy outfit or handbag, there’s probably a way to borrow it, which can also save you money. If you’re unable to find what you need through rental sites, consider checking with friends, family members, neighborhood social media groups, etc., to see if someone has what you’re looking for.

If you’re looking for ways to embrace greener living without breaking your budget, here are a few easy ideas to get your journey to greener living off to a good, cost-saving start.

5. Go Digital

Sign up for paperless billing and e-statements. The more you do online, the less paper you’ll need.

6. Go Old School

Modern conveniences are, well … convenient, but they can also harm the planet and be an energy suck. Remember the days when you had to air dry your laundry on the line out back? Throw it back to a simpler time and dry your clothes or linens this way when you can. Another laundry tip: Use cold water. Clothes will get just as clean, but you’ll save energy heating the water.

DIY Green Cleaning Recipes

Make your own cleaning products. Most store-bought cleaners have loads of chemicals that are not ideal to use in the home. There are lots of great homemade recipes for cleaners, disinfectants, stain removers, and more. Check out a few below!

Glass Cleaner

INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup rubbing (isopropyl) alcohol

• 1 cup water

• 1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar

DIRECTIONS

Mix them together in a reusable spray bottle.

Tub and Tile Scrub

INGREDIENTS

• 1 & 2/3 cups baking soda

• ½ cup liquid soap

• ½ cup water

• 2 tablespoons distilled white vinegar

DIRECTIONS

Mix all ingredients, adding vinegar after the other ingredients are well mixed (NOTE: vinegar added too early will react with baking soda). Immediately apply, wipe, and scrub.

Other recipes for non-toxic cleaners can be found at smallfootprintfamily.com.

LIFE EDU

Virtual & In-Person Programming

AUGUST 2023

Silver Linings

Join us most Wednesdays on LIFE’s Facebook page for short segments on a variety of topics including upcoming events, Caregiver Tool Belt, Crafting with Roxanne, and living your best life.

"Dealing With Dementia"

Wednesday, August 2

“All About Electric Vehicles (EVs)"

Wednesday, August 9

"Crafting With Roxanne"

Wednesday, August 16

This month’s craft is a trellis welcome sign. You will need a small black wire trellis (Home Depot); a two-wire welcome sign with hanging flowers, a wire sign with a metal bell (garden section at Dollar Tree); wire cutters, and black wire or black zip ties.

"Caregiver Tool Belt: Setting Boundaries"

Wednesday, August 23

Community Education

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

“Wills vs. Trusts”

Tuesday, August 15 • 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Elder law attorney Brian Crain will discuss the differences between a will and a trust, including information on special needs trusts. To register, go to LIFEseniorservices.org/education, or call (918) 664-9000, ext. 1181.

“Basics of Medicare”

Wednesday, August 16 • 10 a.m. – 12 p.m

“Basics of Medicare” is designed specifically for those newly eligible or soon-to-be eligible for Medicare. Reservations are required and can be made by calling LIFE’s Medicare Assistance Program at (918) 664-9000, ext. 1189

“Dealing With Dementia”

Saturday, August 19 • 9 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

This program from the Rosalyn Carter Institute on Caregiving was developed to help caregivers have an effective way to find and utilize information quickly. The course covers an overview of dementia and offers help dealing with the many facets and behaviors of caregiving for someone with dementia. Bring a sack lunch. Class size is limited. To register, go to LIFEseniorservices.org/education, or call (918) 664-9000, ext. 1181.

“All About Electric Vehicles (EVs)”

Tuesday, August 22 • 10 - 11 a.m.

As electric vehicles (EVs) appear more frequently on the road, there are questions about their performance, reliability, and how they fit into everyday life. A representative from Public Service of Oklahoma will be with us to talk about EVs and answer your questions. To register, go to LIFEseniorservices.org/education, or call (918) 664-9000, ext. 1181.

BY JULIE WENGER WATSON

ENERGY SAVERS HOME IN THE

SAVING MONEY & THE PLANET

SMALL & EASY

If you live in a home with a fireplace, simply closing the damper in the summer creates a savings by reducing the loss of conditioned air up and out the chimney. Just make a note to open it again before you make a fire.

Adding weather stripping to your back and front doors, or replacing damaged weather stripping, is another smart way to save on energy bills. Check your attic entrance, too.

Guy de Verges, owner of Tulsa’s de Verges & Associates, has over 30 years of experience in environmental consulting, including energy efficiency. According to de Verges, some energy saving strategies are easily and affordably implemented, with quick results. Others take a larger investment of time and money before homeowners reap the benefits.

Cleaning your electric or gas dryer vent discharge hose is not only a safety necessity but also saves energy. Crimped vent hoses or those filled with debris are both fire hazards and energy hogs. Depending on how often you use the dryer, de Verges recommends cleaning the vent every one to three years. Although de Verges says this is a relatively easy thing to do yourself, he notes there are many services that specialize in this.

ENERGY SAVING TIPS

“The biggest loss of heat and heat gain is probably through the doors to the attic staircases because they're usually very poorly fitted,” de Verges noted. “In the summertime, hot air just pours down through those openings. A wellinsulated attic staircase will save you money all year round.”

HVAC AIR FILTERS & CONDENSER UNITS

“The easiest and simplest way to save money in your house is changing your furnace air filter frequently,” de Verges said.

While most people change their filters twice annually, de Verges recommends doing so every three months using relatively inexpensive, standard pleated filters that are readily available at home improvement and hardware stores.

“Changing your air filter is going to save you money every day of the week,” he said.

De Verges says the process is pretty simple, and most folks, with some research or the help of a YouTube video, can accomplish it on their own. Cleaning the air conditioner condenser unit, the outdoor portion of the air conditioner, is another easy way to save energy. De Verges cleans his out monthly during the heat of summer.

“The cleaner the condensing unit is and the cleaner your air filter is, the better the system works and that will definitely save money all the time,” he said. “The system will also last longer because the harder the air conditioner has to work, the sooner it's going to fail. Doing some simple maintenance like that will make it run better, particularly on the really hot days.”

Saving energy saves money, and small changes make a big difference over time. Don’t know where to start? We have some suggestions.

Add weather stripping to your back and front doors.

Close the damper in your fireplace during the warm months.

Replace incandescent light bulbs in your home with LED lights.

Clean your dryer vent for safety and energy effiency.

Update your old appliances, like your refrigerator, to new ones.

Change the furnace filter every three months.

De Verges encourages at least one good condenser cleaning in the spring to get through the summer.

LIGHTING

Replacing incandescent light bulbs in your home with LED lights, especially in can (or recessed) lights in your ceiling, saves money in several ways.

“The old-fashioned incandescent bulbs get really hot, and they produce what's called a ‘stack’ effect. They pull the conditioned air in your house up into the attic, or up in between the floors, and you waste a lot of energy,” he explained. “Replacing can light bulbs with LED bulbs lowers that temperature differential and very much minimizes the stack effect.”

De Verges notes that the labeling on bulbs has changed. He suggests taking one of your old bulbs with you when you shop to make sure you purchase an LED bulb with a compatible base. He recommends purchasing 2700 to 3000 K (for Kelvin) bulbs because they reproduce the incandescent lights most of us grew up with.

WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE

Public Service of Oklahoma’s Weatherization Assistance program provides home energy assessments and home upgrades at no cost to eligible customers. To qualify, a homeowner or renter must have an annual household income of $55,000 or less and must live in a home built before 2010 that is less than 2,200 square feet.

PSO’s service provider, Titan ES, will come to your home and perform an energy assessment at no cost. If your home qualifies, the company will schedule and complete home weatherization upgrades — again at no cost. These improvements can include air sealing, weather stripping, duct sealing, and attic insulation.

“Since 2010, PSO has weatherized 24,604 homes,” said Wayne Greene, PSO spokesperson. “The average energy savings is about 2,000 kilowatthours per home, which is more than a month and a half’s usage for the average PSO residential customer.”

Learn more about PSO’s Weatherization Assistance program at powerforwardwithpso.com.

REPLACE OLDER APPLIANCES

When it comes to hot water heaters, refrigerators and even furnaces, technological advances mean new models are many times more energy efficient than older ones. Sometimes it pays to replace them, even if the older model is still working. De Verges notes that this is especially true if you’re using a 20-year-old refrigerator to cool a few six packs in your garage.

“You're probably spending $50 a month to keep that old beast going. New refrigerators, even cheap ones, are much more efficient,” he said. De Verges recommends replacing your furnace, too, if it’s over 20 years old. Although it can be an expensive undertaking, some utility companies offer rebates, and the savings from improved efficiency quickly adds up. Similarly, consider replacing hot water heaters after about 15 years.

LONG TERM

If you’re working on a longer horizon, replacing windows is an expensive but ultimately rewarding proposition for energy savings over time and comfort. Planting trees on the south and west sides of your home is a beautiful investment in the future and a great way to create shade, which ultimately reduces summer cooling bills.

Depending on your time and budget, there are all kinds of ways, big and small, to save energy in your home. There's no need to do it all at once. Just find a project that works for you, and dive in. For more information on de Verges & Associates, visit facebook.com/DeVergesandAssociates. For more energy tips, visit energystar.gov.

LIFE SENIOR SERVICES

LIFE Senior Services is celebrating 50 years of promoting and preserving independence for Oklahoma seniors. Read about one of LIFE’s diverse programs each month in LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine.

LIFE's Independent Case Management

LIFE's Independent Case Management program helps adults aged 65 and older and adults with disabilities aged 55 and older with a wide range of services. The type of help depends upon the client’s needs, from finding a telephone number for a resource and completing a request for legal documents, to establishing more complex services for seniors at risk of losing their independence.

For seniors who would benefit from day, home, and communitybased services to help them stay in their homes, but who are either in the ADvantage application process or do not qualify for the ADvantage program, LIFE's Independent Case Managers are here to help.

“We like to think of our department as a full-service wraparound because we can assist in-person (if homebound), refer to inhouse behavioral health services, caregiver support services, transportation services, and elderly abuse services in partnership with DVIS,” said Lee Tilmon, SeniorLink manager. “We do all we can to make a senior’s quality of life better so they may remain in the comfort of their homes for as long as possible.”

Besides addressing healthcare needs, Independent Case Managers also develop a personalized plan that considers their clients’ social, economic, and environmental needs. Independent Case Managers create care plans and arrange for day, home, and community-based services.

There is no fee for the case managers, however, the individual is responsible for any co-pays or charges for services. LIFE's Independent Case Managers serve primarily Tulsa County. For more information, call LIFE's SeniorLine at (918) 664-9000, option 2, or email info@LIFEseniorservices.org. Consider

BY KAREN SZABO

In recent years, the fashion industry has seen a significant shift towards sustainability as more shoppers realize the importance of being eco-friendly when buying clothes and personal items. In response, many companies are now focusing on sustainability.

RECYCLED MATERIALS AND INNOVATIVE DESIGNS

Using recycled materials is a big trend in sustainable fashion. Cheap clothes made from materials like polyester or cotton treated with pesticides may seem affordable, but it harms the environment. Ethical fashion emphasizes sustainability and recycles, reuses, or chooses fabrics like organic cotton and bamboo. These fabrics are grown without harmful chemicals and help the

GREEN IS ALWAYS IN STYLE

soil stay healthy. The clothing may cost more, but it's worth it.

Footwear manufacturer Allbirds uses natural materials like merino wool and eucalyptus tree fiber, which have a significantly lower environmental impact compared to traditional shoe materials. Rareform takes sustainability to the next level by transforming discarded billboards into unique bags, reducing waste and giving new life to these materials. Similarly, Rothy's produces stylish shoes and handbags from 100% recycled plastic water bottles, providing a fashionable alternative that minimizes plastic waste.

ETHICAL PRODUCTION AND LABOR POLICIES

Sustainability is not limited to the materials used. Fast fashion supply chains often involve poorly monitored factories in

developing countries where workers face harsh conditions including child labor, unsafe workplaces, long hours, and human rights violations. These workers are trapped in poverty and subjected to modern slaverylike conditions. In contrast, sustainable fashion practices ensure fair pay and treatment for workers and value their wellbeing and dignity.

Tulsa-based Hilo de Amor offers a variety of artisan-crafted products at its shop in Mother Road Market and on its website, hilodeamor.com. Owner Esther Wright was born and raised in Oaxaca, Mexico and has a deep connection to her homeland and its rich cultural heritage.

“I came to the U.S. in 1999, but Oaxaca never left my heart,” she said. “I never intended to start a

"My philosophy is that God gives us talents and when we put them to the service of others,happen."miracles

– Esther Wright, Owner of Hilo de Amor

ROTHY'S

Made from recycled materials, like plastic water bottles.

HILO DE AMOR Handwoven tote bag.

RAREFORM Transforms discarded billboard canvases into unique bags.

business. I just wanted to help prisoners in Oaxaca by purchasing their hand-woven tote bags and selling them at cost.”

However, after seven months, inspired by the impact she was making, she decided to leave her corporate career behind and dedicate herself to supporting her community through Hilo de Amor. The brand's name itself means "Thread of Love."

Today, Hilo de Amor’s flagship products are their meticulously hand-woven tote bags. Each bag takes an incredible eight hours to weave. They have become a means for incarcerated men and women in Oaxaca to support their families while behind bars.

Hilo de Amor also offers hand-made items like jewelry and clothing created by artisans from more than 16 indigenous groups across Oaxaca. The proceeds from each sale go back to the very hands that created the piece in Mexico.

“My philosophy is that God gives us talents and when we put them to the service of others, miracles happen,” Wright said.

THE TRUE COST

Fast fashion has contributed to a culture of disposability, where garments are often discarded after a few wears. Documentaries like “The True Cost” shine a light on how the fast fashion industry depletes the earth’s resources and leverages labor to pass on a cheap cost to the end consumer.

Sustainable or “slow fashion” brands approach garment production in a way that considers both people and the planet. And, while sustainable fashion garments are sometimes more expensive than fast fashion pieces, their cost per wear is much lower because they're durable and timeless.

TOMS’ shoes, for example, are made from ecofriendly materials like cotton and post-consumer plastic waste. TOMS’ incorporates durability into its designs, ensuring that customers can enjoy their purchases for an extended period.

Another shoe manufacturer, IMM Shoes uses surplus leathers and canvas from the world’s leading luxury brands, along with organic jute and locally sourced rubber to create their handcrafted shoes.

Clothing brand Boden is committed to responsible sourcing, fair trade, ethical practices, and eco-friendly options at every part of the supply chain. Boden uses materials like cotton and viscose from sustainable, renewable resources so their clothing lasts and their customers can enjoy the items longer.

THRIFT STORES AND SECONDHAND FASHION

Shopping at thrift stores is not only a more sustainable option, but also a cost-friendly way to update your wardrobe and give new life to garments that might otherwise end up in landfills.

Goodwill, a household name in thrift shopping, is committed to diverting clothing and household goods from landfills, thereby promoting environmental sustainability. Plus, Goodwill's dedication to reinvesting profits back into the community means that your purchases support education, job training, and job placement services for individuals with disabilities or employment challenges. Goodwill has 10 retail store locations throughout northeastern Oklahoma. For details, visit goodwilltulsa.org

The Assistance League's Bargains Thrift Shop, 5350 E. 31st St., is another notable thrift store in

Tulsa where you can find a treasure trove of unique secondhand items. The proceeds from their sales directly support the organization's philanthropic programs, such as providing school uniforms and essentials to underprivileged children, supporting older adults, and offering scholarships to local students.

You’ll not only find unique and affordable items at Animal Aid Thrift Shop, 6811 E. 21st St., but your purchases will also directly contribute to the welfare of animals in Tulsa. Proceeds from sales go towards veterinary care, shelter, and other essential services for rescued animals, ensuring they receive the care they deserve.

With options that have you covered from head to toe, you have the power to make sustainable fashion an integral part of your personal style – and create a greener and more ethical fashion industry.

THE ASSISTANCE LEAGUE'S BARGAINS THRIFT SHOP

Photo Courtesy of LDKerns Contractors

TOM'S SHOES

Made from eco-friendly materials like cotton and post-consumer plastic waste.

LIFE LESSONS

Roy Williams fell into re-enacting the role of Deputy U.S. Marshal Bass Reeves quite by accident. He agreed to help a friend who was gathering a group to represent the lawmen who rode for Judge Isaac C. Parker in Indian Territory. Reeves, who was born a slave in Texas, was one of the first Black deputy U.S. marshals in the American West. The lawmen were instrumental in taming the outlaws that roamed the area as Oklahoma became a state.

Roy moved to Oklahoma from Detroit where he worked at a media company. He moved primarily for Rhema Bible Training College and has lived in Collinsville since 2010. Although re-enacting a role from history is an act, his life lessons are real. With six children and six grandchildren, he knows a lot about life and what it has taught him.

Though Roy didn't expect to become a re-enactor, he was willing to help out a friend. He was also happy to share his thoughts with LIFE's Vintage Newsmagazine. And if you're unaware, Bass Reeves' story is being made into a major motion picture. Roy joked, "They didn't ask me to act in it!" I, for one, can't wait to see the story on the big screen.

What are some of the most important lessons your life experiences have taught you?

Be Honest

“Be honest, that way you don’t have to backtrack and recover a lie. Tell the truth, even if it hurts a little. Just tell the truth or it will bite you in the end.”

Work Diligently

“Work hard but work smart first! Consider all the things with your job and cut the fat where you can."

Be Forgiving

"People have tendencies to remember things that aren’t good, and not everyone is good at forgiving. But give them the benefit of the doubt. We are always striving to be better, and some things you just can’t prevent when things go asunder, so have a good attitude, and just try to be better."

Be Friendly

"If you’re not friendly, you won’t have any friends!" Roy laughed as he said this like it was just common sense. He loves good jokes and laughs a lot.

Choose Wisely

"We get to make good choices all day long. If you make a choice, you can either live with it or change it. Life is so full of choices. We're the only ones who can change our course. It's a choice!"

“If you make a choice, you can either live with it or change it. We're the only ones who can change our course.”

– Roy Williams

HINK PINKS

Hink Pinks are fun rhyming word riddles. The answer to the riddle is a pair of words that rhyme with each other. For example: Large Feline would be Fat Cat. These will make you think! Answers on page 39.

A contest for who ties their shoes fastest

A daring removal of hair from the face

A fake formal dance

A farmhouse used to store favorite string

A feathered animal's droppings

A fragile end of the finger

A green mineral made into a cutting device

A happy post high school student

A keen eyed bird's discussion

A large branch

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.

Loan – Pool – Great White

Clog – Pump – Flat

Rain – Fur – Trench

Silver – Tin – Nickel

Coffee – Oil – Air

Tulip – Lamp – Onion

Saturn – Dirty Shirt Collars – Newleyweds

Date – Cook – Phone

Spock – Suess – Phil

Fire – Soda – Safe

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.

Passionate about the environment? You may be interested in eco-friendly estate planning. Eco-friendly estate planning not only provides for our loved ones, but it also helps preserve the planet for generations to come. Here are some ways to go green with your estate plan:

• Donate a portion of your assets to your favorite environmental causes. This is one of the most effective ways to reduce the environmental impact of your estate.

• Opt for a green funeral with eco-conscious options like a natural burial, a casket made from sustainable materials or choose cremation with minimal impact.

• Reduce your ecological footprint by storing important documents electronically and managing your assets digitally. Remember to give clear instructions about your online accounts and subscriptions.

• Encourage your heirs to be eco-friendly by setting up a trust that incentivizes them to be mindful of the environment or leave a bequest to an environmental organization in their name.

To submit a Noteworthy event, contact the editor at editor@LIFEseniorservices.org or (918) 664-9000, ext. 1207.

Get Classical by Candlelight

Thursday, August 17

There’s just something special about candlelight! Tulsans and those nearby know all too well in light of recent events that candlelight is sometimes necessary. But this time, candlelight is accompanied by beautiful classical music, setting the tone (and mood) for an exceptionally relaxing and multi-sensory musical experience. “Mozart’s Requiem and More” will be performed by candlelight on August 17 at the Gast Event Center (German American Society of Tulsa). Gast was originally built in 1929 as the 2nd Church of Christian Scientists; this beautifully restored property now serves as an event center. There will be two listening opportunities, one at 6:30 p.m., and 8:45 p.m., lasting 65 minutes each, at Gast, 1429 Terrace Drive in Tulsa. Doors open 45 minutes before the start time and late entry is not permitted.

Tickets range from $35 – $55; however, a caretaker is entitled to apply for one free pass. One ticket must be on hold before applying for the caretaker ticket. This venue is ADA-compliant, and seating is assigned on a first-come, first-served basis in each zone.

Tickets must be purchased through the Feverup app or at feverup.com before you arrive at the event. You are unable to purchase events at the Gast Center, which is acting as the venue only. But your ticket purchase will help offset Gast’s operating costs. To see the program details, please visit feverup.com/m/130028

If you’re unable to attend this candlelight event, there will be others.

Although the Gilcrease Museum is closed for renovations, they continue to hold fun events throughout the city called “Gilcrease in Your Neighborhood" as well as an upcoming festival.

Make plans to attend the Gilcrease Family Festival on Saturday, August 12, 1 – 4 p.m. The event will be held at Chandler Park, 6500 W. 21st St., Tulsa. This family-friendly event celebrates the third artwork for “Gilcrease in Your Neighborhood,” Norma Howard’s

WILD BREW

TULSA’S ORIGINAL CRAFT BEER TASTING & RESTAURANT CRAWL SATURDAY,

PM

(Choctaw) Gathering Corn. Activities will include “corny” art activities, musical performances, storytelling, and more. For details about the artwork, go to gilcrease.org/gilcrease-in-yourneighborhood

The “Gilcrease in Your Neighborhood” experience is all about featuring one artwork in 31 locations at once. Each artwork reproduction will be displayed for about three months before transitioning to the new featured artwork for another three months. The locations vary – envision parks, libraries, shopping centers, and community gathering places, inside and outside!

This program is FREE, but they do ask that you RSVP so there are enough supplies for all. Please contact Mery McNett at (918) 596-2772 or mery-mcnett@utulsa.edu if you have questions.

fun and festive atmosphere.

Patrons choose from hundreds of beers and have the unique opportunity to chat with brewers one-on-one. Live music, live demonstrations from local artists, selfies with live birds, and silent auction bidding wars keep the party hopping.

Cox Business Center, 100 Civic Center, Tulsa Saturday, August 26

• Wild Brew Patron Hour only 4 - 5 p.m.

• Wild Brew Event for all 5 - 8 p.m.

The Sutton Avian Research Center in Bartlesville is an internationally known bird conservation organization. They are largely responsible for the return of the Bald Eagle which is no easy feat! Currently, they are working with two of the most endangered birds in North America and on several other statewide bird conservation projects.

Their annual fundraising event called Wild Brew will celebrate its 25th anniversary this year at the Cox Business Center on August 26. This is Tulsa's oldest beer tasting and restaurant crawl with hundreds of beers to sample, and food from more than 50 different restaurants, all included in one ticket price. The event is indoors, well lit, with lots of seating and a

For a list of all the restaurants and breweries available at the Wild Brew event, go to wildbrew. org/restaurant or wildbrew.org/ breweries. A general admission ticket is $75. All food and beverage tastings and a Wild Brew tasting cup are included. More questions? Call (918) 336-7778 or visit suttoncenter.org

SuttonBenefitingAvian Research Center

SHARE

YOUR TIME & TALENT

If your organization needs help promoting its volunteer program, contact the editor at editor@LIFEseniorservices.org or (918) 664-9000, ext. 1207.

Iron Gate

The best thing to do with the best things in life is to give them away.

– Dorothy Day

Iron Gate’s mission is to feed the hungry of Tulsa every day. Volunteers interact directly with Iron Gate’s guests while serving daily community meals from 8:15 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. The organization also needs daily assistance preparing its grocery pantry, including sorting grocery items, bagging groceries for outreach, and restocking shelves. Volunteers can also help guests during the grocery pantry which is every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 12:45 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. To get involved, fill out a volunteer form on their website, irongatetulsa.org, or email volunteers@irongatetulsa.org. You can also contact Volunteer Coordinator Heather Crim at (918) 879-1706.

Tulsa Air and Space Museum

Share your love of the skies with visitors at the Tulsa Air and Space Museum! Right now, the facility is looking for museum docents to give tours to field trip groups and greet visitors as they arrive at the hangar. No prior aviation background is required. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with morning volunteers arriving as early as 8 a.m. to wake up with some coffee among fellow aviation enthusiasts. To volunteer, please contact Education Manager and Volunteer Coordinator Shelby Boothman at (918) 8349900, ext. 221, or email her at sboothman@ tulsamuseum.org.

Tulsa Zoo

The Tulsa Zoo has many volunteer opportunities available for those passionate about animals. Volunteers start as guest services volunteers. They do a little bit of everything – from helping with school field trips to assisting with fundraisers. After completing 50 hours as guest services volunteers, volunteers can apply to be an interpretive volunteer or an animal area volunteer. Interpretive volunteers educate guests about animals, habitats, and conservation at interpretive stations. Animal area volunteers assist zookeepers with daily routines in select areas, including birds, horticulture, rainforest, and more. To learn more about volunteering, visit their website at tulsazoo.org or email volunteers@ tulsazoo.org.

Tulsa SPCA

Tulsa SPCA is looking for volunteers to help our furry friends in need. The nonprofit has a variety of important volunteer opportunities, such as aiding the vaccine clinic and socializing the cats. Volunteers are also needed to socialize the dogs with tasks including walking, playing, petting, etc. There are even more volunteering options such as shelter clean up and adoption assistance. All volunteers must receive a background check and attend orientation. Some jobs will require additional training. Fill out an application at tulsaspca.org. You can also contact the organization at volunteers@ tulsaspca.org or call (918) 428-7722, ext. 1028.

For more information about these volunteer needs, call (918) 664-9000 and ask for LIFE’s volunteer program.

Bunkering With Books

NOT SO LIGHT SUMMER READING

BY CONNIE CRONLEY

Gershwin wrote that the livin’ is easy in the summertime, and often we like our summer reading material to be like that – light and entertaining. Sometimes a big, fat novel is satisfying.

“Demon Copperhead” by Barbara Kingsolver may well be a masterpiece of contemporary American fiction. Here’s a young boy thrown into a dark trip of Appalachian poverty with the horrors of foster care and child labor, gutpunching losses, opioid addiction, and – again and again – poverty.

Poverty in the United States is an ugly story we don’t like to acknowledge, but it is all around us. The toll it takes on health, education, families (especially children), social justice, and economic equality is staggering. Some days it seems to me that poverty is a great undertow steadily dragging the country down, quietly eating at neighborhoods city by city.

Charles Dickens knew that the most effective way to talk about big, foul social issues was in story form. Instead of lecturing about 19th century class difference, exploitation, cruelty, and injustice he gave us breathtaking novels such as “Oliver Twist,” “Bleak House,” and “Nicholas Nickleby.” He gave us heroic Tiny Tim and tragic Little Nell; he created villainous Uriah Heap and Bill Sikes.

"David Copperfield"

“David Copperfield,” published in 1869, is his most personal novel written straight from his own life as a child of poverty in England. It is often held up as his most perfect work. The book’s message is that exploitation – not compassion – rules society. Into this heartless world Dickens tosses the valiant little boy named David Copperfield who has few people to guide him and many to exploit him.

By chance, I had recently watched a BBC film version of “David Copperfield” before reading Barbara Kingsolver’s retelling of it in modern times. I’ve been a Kingsolver fan since reading her first book “The Bean Trees” (1988). Her newest book, “Demon Copperhead,” has won the Pulitzer Prize for fiction and I say, “Hear, hear!”

"Demon Copperhead"

A cynic could say, “She didn’t come up with the plot or characters,” but champions of the book admire her skill in regifting us the story with places, times, and characters we recognize. This is not 19th century fiction to us; this is life in our time.

Damon Fields, nicknamed Demon Copperhead, is born to a teenage single mother and lives in a trailer in Lee County, Virginia. Through no fault of his own, he becomes a lost boy in the beautiful mountains of southern Appalachia – an orphan, a foster child, a victim of child labor, rescued

then lost again. He is a tiny salmon fighting upstream for everything – food, jobs, education, a home, a friend. Nobody swoops in to save him.

Let it be noted that the language of this Kingsolver novel can be rough, just as we would expect the people of Demon’s world to talk, and occasionally it seems too long. Minor quibbles. Along with the roiling story, the author gives some history of the region, such as the Battle of Blair Mountain, the largest labor uprising in American history and the largest armed uprising since the Civil War.

“Twenty thousand guys from all over these mountains, fighting in regiments. They wore red bandanas on their necks to show they were all on the same side, working men … people calling us rednecks, that goes back to red bandanas.”

Despite all of his misfortunes and loneliness, Demon sees the beauty around him. He has a talent for art – a talent that might save him like a lifeline – and he uses that talent to describe the beauty of his homeland.

The “deep easy blue of a water hole … Peacock blue in the deep center, shading out to clear on the pebbly edges [with a] turquoise middle. You so rarely see that, but children will color water that way every time, given the right choice of crayons. Like they were born knowing there’s better out there than what we’re getting.”

LIFE ON THE ROAD

Choose Eco-Friendly Travel

BY DEE DUREN, MANAGING EDITOR

Sustainable tourism is an increasingly popular concept in the travel industry. According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization, ecotourism is "tourism that takes full account of its future economic, social, and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment, and host communities." When traveling sustainably, we can set out on our journeys taking responsibility for learning about the places we visit, spending our dollars in ways that support the local economy, and refraining from any actions that damage the environment for locals and other vacationers.

Those of us who stayed close to home through the pandemic years are understandably eager to spread our wings and fly. And 2023 global travel rates are high — close to pre-pandemic levels. Chances are you or someone you know is traveling abroad this year, and this article is not intended to discourage anyone from doing so. But some modes of travel are greener than others. If you choose to travel closer to home, here are some ideas to consider.

For more eco-friendly travel, consider a group bus tour. Check with your senior center, church, or gym to see if they have a travel group. Seniors Go Travel Group is a local travel group that offers fun adventures for older adults, according to founder Kay Jenkins. They’re currently planning a trip to Reba’s Place in Atoka on September 26. Next up is a trip to Woolaroc in December to see the Christmas lights. In 2024, plans include San Antonio and Memphis.

Joining a group of travel buddies means fewer cars on the road. Add that to the advantages of companionship, letting someone else do the driving, and having experienced travelers plan the action make group bus tours a greener alternative. Learn more about Seniors Go Travel by checking out their Facebook page or calling Kay at (918) 841-0976.

You may not think you’re fit enough to take a bicycle tour, but the new electric bicycles make longer distances more doable for many older adults. If you need a break or some extra “oomph” to make it up a hill, a "pedal assist” motor kicks in to help. Electric bicycles are still a good form of cardiovascular exercise that can improve heart and lung functions while going easy on older joints.

Once you have a few miles under your belt with an electric bike, consider taking an active bicycle tour. Road Scholar is a nonprofit travel agency that creates educational travel experiences for older adults. Their tours include many cycling trips with destinations ranging from the Katy Trail in Missouri to the tulip fields of Holland. Check out their offerings at roadscholar.org.

Consider taking a train if you’d like to decrease your carbon footprint. Amtrak is 46% more energy efficient than traveling by car and 34% more energy efficient than domestic air travel, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. “America’s Railroad” connects more than 500 travel destinations over 46 states. Even the train names sound environmentally friendly. There's the California Zephyr that runs between Chicago and San Francisco, climbing through the Rockies and the Sierra Nevadas on the way. The Sunset Limited departs three days a week and traces Amtrak's most southern route between Louisiana and California. To see if train travel appeals, you can first try the Heartland Flyer that connects Oklahoma City to Fort Worth. Travelers 65 and older are eligible for a 10% discount on most Amtrak trains.

Photo Courtesy of Roadscholar.org

Photo Courtesy of Seniors Go Travel

Photo Courtesy of Amtrak.com

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

BIBLE READING SESSION

For Seniors Sake

Behold how good and how pleasant it is for seniors to get together to read God’s words so that they may glorify God and have eternal life. This call is free. For more information call (918) 872-1400.

BOOKS

Missing Palm Tree

Missing Palm Tree: Stories

From America’s Clandestine Service is a widely acclaimed book which tells with vivid language how dangerous clandestine work is. Written by W. Blaine Wheelerand 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

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 $9,200 for all four. Transfer fees included. Serious inquiries please call (405) 887-2722

Memorial Park Cemetery –Lakeview Area

3 lots available in Memorial Park. Older established Lakeview area. Section 26, Lot 75, Spaces 1,2, and 3. Crypts are already installed. Willing to sell just one lot for $2,200 or all three for $1,900 each. Contact John at (918) 998-4927

Memorial Park Prime Cemetery Plots

Section 26, Lot 157, Space 1

* Crypt included * Bronze or Granite approved. $2000. Section 43, Lot 46, Spaces 2 & 3 * Bronze or Granite approved. $1900 each. Contact: marphy3@sbcglobal.net

Memorial Park Cemetery

Tulsa Two Plots

Two side by side plots in Parkview South Section 49; Lot 243; Spaces 7 & 8. Bronze markers only. Price for both is just $3000, which includes the transfer fee. New lots in this section currently sell for $2,850 each! Call (417) 399-2361.

Plot by the Bell Tower Cemetery plot in Memorial park cemetery for sale. In the old section of the cemetery, the northwest corner by the bell tower. The plot is section 2A, Lot 17-D, Plot 3. $1,500 obo, for more info call Susan at (580) 447-6607

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, movein or move-out, construction clean. Experienced in all areas including detail and organization. Reasonable and with References. Call (539) 664-1986

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

Medicare Assistance Program

The Medicare Assistance Program (MAP) at LIFE Senior Services provides accurate information, counseling and assistance relating to Medicare benefits 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. Local Agent, Cindy Johnson, (918) 619-5919 cell.

Need A New Medicare Plan?

The Medicare Supplement Store at Promenade Mall is your “One-Stop-Shop” for Medicare Supplements, Advantage Plans, & Drug Plans. We can give you a quote from toprated carriers like: Aetna, Blue Cross, Humana, GlobalHealth, UnitedHealthCare, Mutual of Omaha and others. For information, call Bob Archer today (918) 814-5550.

Need a Plan for Final Expenses?

You can easily apply for simple and effective life insurance that can help ensure your surviving loved ones aren’t financially burdened by expenses related to your death. Ages 45-85 eligible. Call or text Dian Peacock for more information. I will call back if unable to answer or leave a message at (918) 697-9415 today.

FOR SALE

Fostoria Crystal

Hand-etched chintz crystal. Over 150 pieces. Goblets, wine glasses, sherbets, plates, cups, saucers, torte plates, relish dishes, serving dishes, fruit bowls, cake plates, nappys, salt and peppers, double candlesticks, ice bucket plus more! Approximate 1945 retail cost $4,200. Make an offer. No individual sales. (918) 663-3528.

GARDENING/LAWN CARE

AAA Lawns & More

Total lawn care. Lawn Mowing. Will remove or trim any size tree. Fence repair and installation. Dedicated to making your lawn look its best. Insured, honest, experienced and dependable. Veteran-owned. We are a small company with personal service. References available. FREE ESTIMATES. Call Larry. (918) 361-1299.

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 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

Allen’s Handyman Services of Tulsa

“Your Home Improvement and Repair Specialist.” 23 years serving Tulsa seniors. “One call can do it all.” 10% senior discount. Insured. All work guaranteed in writing. No pay until job is completed. Plumbing, drain cleaning, grab bars, electrical, carpentry, painting, seamless guttering installation/repair/cleaning. Dryer vent cleaning. Roof, tile and drywall repair. Wood siding/ trim replacement. Deck repair, power washing, staining. Tree trimming. No job too small. For free estimate, call Allen at (918) 630-0394.

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) 8559216, 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.

Doc J’s Heat and Air LLC

In Tulsa People magazine, Doc J is in the Top 5 for HVAC. Our heating and air conditioning service delivers top-notch quality and unbeatable value. From maintenance to repairs, we've got you covered. Call (918) 921-4240 for reliable, affordable comfort.

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 Acquired Dave’s Heat & Air, Inc.

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) 437-8101. 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 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 fullservice 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

Tulsa Movers

Dependable Movers!

Low Rates. Free Estimates. Senior Discounts. 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

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 offer’s 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. Jacki (918) 922-9558.

Warshaw Group Concierge and Personal Assistance

For the past 18 years, we’ve made life much easier for our clients. From running errands, personal shopping/ delivery, organizing spaces, event assistance, research projects, increasing home safety, administrative/secretarial support, and much more ... we can do it! Bob and I would like to speak with you about ways we can simplify your life. Call Bobbi, (918) 852-5302. bobbi.warshaw@att.net

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. 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. Senior special pricing can’t be beat! Available Tuesday – Saturday. A Mane Event hairstyling, located near 11th and Yale at 937 South Canton. Call Mary Wilkinson at (918) 834-2686. Following CDC Guidelines – safe environment.

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 i n 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.

SENIOR MOVE

Imagine a Life Without Chaos

Downsizing, Decluttering, Move Management, Estate Sales, Selling the Family Home. Call today (918) 605-1480. www.MatureTransitionsofTulsa.com.

SOCIAL

Single Seniors (50+)

Are you over 50, single, divorced or widowed? We are a fun-loving group of single seniors over 50. We meet every Wednesday, 11:15 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the Buffet Palace, 10934 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.

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 BRANSON FOR AN EARLY HOLIDAY!

Join a fun 3-day, 2-night tour bus trip November 7-9, 2023. “Queen Esther” at Sight and Sound is included with three other shows.

ChristChurchExplorers for details or to sign up. Departing midtown Tulsa. Cost is $435 per person double/$504 single/$415 triple. Full payment due September 1.

VACATION SPOT

Family Fun at Meadow Lake Ranch!

The ranch has everything from authentic log cabins (complete with private patios & waterfront views) to venues ideal for celebrations & family gatherings. Enjoy fishing, walking trails, ranch activities, & s’mores by the fire! We are located just 15 minutes from Downtown Tulsa, & 20 minutes from Keystone Lake. Call Susie at (918) 494-6000 for a personal event tour. Visit www.meadowlakeranch.com or email meadowlakeranch@cox.net.

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.

AUGUST ANSWERS

For puzzles, see pages 30-31

IN TRIBUTE OF

Pat Atkinson

In Honor of Helen Jo Hardwick

Phyllis Aschim

In Memory of Gerry Yolz

Pamela Bonomi

In Honor of LIFE Senior Services

Maxine T. Earnhardt

In Memory of William R. Earnhardt

Ronald and Sharon Gibson

In Honor of Sharon Gibson

Frank A. Hamilton Jr.

In Memory of Jane Hamilton

Norma Hollaway

In Memory of W. Fred Hollaway

Joan McKeel

In Memory of Almeda Roach

Pat Morris

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