FREE Subscription: www.LIFEseniorservices.org/request
LIFE FOR SUSAN & DOYLE Thanks to You! When my husband Doyle and I received his dementia diagnosis out of the blue, it was quite a shock and very new to me. I heard someone explain what it felt like to receive a dementia diagnosis, "I wanted to scream: I'm still me inside." During our daily life, as things progressed and I had more responsibilities, the world became smaller and smaller. I even found myself going through the grieving process. I used to have dinner with friends regularly but stopped because Doyle didn't feel comfortable being left alone. I felt so isolated.
My doctor, thankfully, referred me to LIFE Senior Services, particularly Club LIFE – a program for early-stage Alzheimer's disease and other memory disorders. It has been the best. They provide memory building activities which support brain function. It has been so good for my husband to have social contact with others as well. He has already become comfortable and is being his ornery self like he is with friends and family. It also gives me respite and social contact. I'm reconnecting with friends and able to maintain my part-time business.
I encourage you to know when someone receives a dementia diagnosis, life isn't over. They deserve a high quality of life. It's what we would all want. I think everyone should support LIFE Senor Services. If you only knew how much it means to families! Like the Guardian Angel Clarence in "It's a Wonderful Life," our angel was my doctor who recommended LIFE Senior Services.
Support A Wonderful LIFE. HELP US MEET THE MATCH. LIFE Senior Services is the trusted resource for aging adults and their families. Together, we are able to fulfill our mission to promote and preserve independence for seniors –
Today. Tomorrow. Always. Until December 31, 2021, your gift may be matched thanks to a generous matching grant from the George Kaiser Family Foundation. Please use the enclosed donation envelope in this issue of LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine to send your gift today. You may give online at www.LIFEseniorservices.org or call (918) 664-9000, ext. 1205.
Connect to your care from virtually anywhere. Wherever you are, we’re here for you.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Vol. 36, No. 6 EILEEN BRADSHAW President & CEO of LIFE Senior Services, LIFE PACE & Vintage Housing
KELLY KIRCHHOFF
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Senior Director of Communications
USPS Operation Santa
Get It on Your Doorstep: The Rise of Home Delivery
DEE DUREN
Each year, the U.S. Post Office gets thousands of letters from children and families addressed to Santa Claus. Now the public can read the letters online and help make holiday wishes come true.
Many of us have come to rely upon the remarkable scope and speed of home delivery services. Learn more about the deliveries we count on for food, products and even life-saving vaccines.
Managing Editor dduren@LIFEseniorservices.org
BERNIE DORNBLASER Advertising Director bdornblaser@LIFEseniorservices.org
LEAH WEIGLE Graphic Designer
PAULA BROWN
Fabulous Finds
Assistant Editor pbrown@LIFEseniorservices.org
BY JULIE WENGER WATSON
H O L I DAY G I F T S U N D E R $ 2 5 Buck Atom’s Cosmic Curios 1347 E. 11th St www.buckatomson66.com
DoubleShot Coffee Company 1633 S. Boulder Ave. www.doubleshotcoffee.com
Other Considerations
In addition to delicious brewed coffee, the DoubleShot Coffee Company at East 16th Street and South Boulder offers whole beans, coffee gear, baked goods and a variety of market items. Owner Brian Franklin travels the world, visiting farms and bringing back beans to roast on site. For $23.50, try a half-pound of La Minita beans from Costa Rica, a package of fresh-baked English muffins and a jar of homemade jam. Visit their website for online shopping, curbside pickup, local delivery and shipping.
Glacier Chocolates 1902 Utica Square www.glacierchocolate.com
Cricket & Fig Chocolate 5800 S. Lewis Ave. www.cricketandfig.com
Rose Rock Microcreamery 502 E. 3rd St. www.roserockmicrocreamery.com
Shop online or in-person at three Tulsa locations for artisanal chocolates.
Order handcrafted chocolates, fruit jellies and dessert sauces for under $25. Customized, hand-written gift notes available.
Shop local for handcrafted ice cream in pints, sandwiches and pies. Online orders and delivery are available.
Located on Route 66, just east of Peoria on East 11th Street, it’s hard to miss Buck Atom’s Cosmic Curios. Look for the 21-foot-tall Space Cowboy, and you’re there. This diminutive gift shop is packed with affordable Mother Road souvenirs and unique Oklahoma novelties. Find plenty of postcards, magnets, mugs and tees for $25 and under.
Other Considerations Ida Red 208 N. Main St. 3336 S. Peoria Ave. 7890 E. 106th Pl. S. www.idaredgeneralstore.com Toys, socks, cards, candy and a variety of Oklahoma-themed gifts await at Ida Red’s three Tulsa locations. Online shopping and shipping are available.
The historic Cain’s Ballroom in the heart of downtown Tulsa is the home of Western Swing. Check out the calendar for upcoming concerts or shop for a tank or T-shirt ($20 - $25) for your favorite music fan. Ball caps and beanies are $25. Koozies, key chains and stickers ($2-$12) make perfect stocking stuffers. Shipping and local pickup are available.
Other Considerations
Shop Tulsa’s nonprofit record label for vinyl ($25) and CDs ($15) from Oklahoma artists or T-shirts ($15-$20). Shipping is available.
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LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine | December 2021
Dead Armadillo Craft Brewing 1004 E. 4th St. www.dabrewery.com
Heirloom Rustic Ales 2113 E. Admiral Blvd. www.heirloomrusticales.com
Cabin Boys Brewery 1717 E. 7th St. www.cabinboysbrewery.com
www.LIFEseniorservices.org
Guitar House of Tulsa 1216 S. Harvard Ave. www.facebook.com/ guitarhouseoftulsa
DICK MCCANDLESS ESTEBAN VALENCIA
Head Country Bar-B-Q www.headcountry.com Making barbecue sauce since 1947, Ponca City’s Head Country also makes marinades and rub. Choose from a variety of sauce flavors, including the Original (20 oz. for $3.68). Find their products at local supermarkets, or shop online at the website.
Community Distribution
The Engine Room Boxing Gym 316 E. 11th St. www.engineroomboxing.com
Located in Tulsa’s Gunboat Park Neighborhood, The Engine Room has boxing training for fitness and competition. The gym also offers a Parkinson’s-specific boxing program called Ready to Fight, which is now the official therapy-boxing program of USA Boxing. During December, you can purchase a specially priced introductory personal training session – $25 for a halfhour session. It’s an affordable way to check out the sport, and it makes a great gift for your fitness friends. Visit their website for more information about the gym.
Other Considerations
In addition to new and vintage guitars, Guitar House of Tulsa has a wide selection of music-related accessories for under $25, including capos, strings, guitar picks and straps, T-shirts and coffee mugs.
www.LIFEseniorservices.org
This company has been making award-winning charcoal grills since 1948 right here in Tulsa. Although the grills themselves are a significant investment, the company also sells BBQ sauce and rubs, T-shirts and hats and many grilling accessories – all for under $25. The All-Purpose Rub ($12.99), the Hasty Bake BBQ Sauce ($7.99) or the grill towel ($9.99) all make excellent gifts.
For Fitness Freaks
Cain's Ballroom 423 N. Main St. www.cainsballroom.com
This local brewery ushered in Tulsa’s craft brewing industry. Order six-packs of bottles or cans online for pick up at the Tap Room. Pair them with a branded stein, or a pilsner or pint glass, and you’ve created the perfect gift for your brew buddy. Shop T-shirts and hats ($23) or mugs and tumblers ($18), too. For more Marshall merchandise, visit their website.
Horton Records www.hortonrecords.org
Copy Editor
Hasty Bake 1313 S. Lewis Ave. www.hastybake.com
Other Considerations
This cool shop has gifts for all ages including Oklahoma and Tulsa souvenirs, spa products, books, toys and puzzles. Part store and part museum, you’ll see curiosities and wonders from the state’s early years. Online shopping and delivery are available.
Marshall Brewing Company 1742 E. 6th St. www.marshallbrewing.com
Other Considerations
American Solera Brewery 1702 E. 6th St. www.americansolera.com
Decopolis 1401 E. 11th St. www.decopolis.net
For the Music Lover
Craft Beer & More
CAROL CARTER
The Best in Barbecue
Quirky Curios
For the Coffee Crew
Tom’s Bicycles 2648 E. 11th St. and 6861 S. Peoria www.tomsbicycles.com Find gloves, socks, water bottles and more for your cycling buddies.
LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine | December 2021
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Fabulous Finds: Holiday Gifts Under $25
Selling and Shipping for Extra Cash
Need some last-minute gifts for friends and family? Check out this buying guide for holiday gifts, sure to please the recipient while supporting local businesses.
28 Dreaming of Blackberry Honey
LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine is pleased to bring you the first of four prize-winning essays from the 2021 writing contest sponsored by LIFE’s Seniors Centers and the Oklahoma Arts Council.
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Many people are supplementing their retirement income through the busy world of e-commerce. A local expert gives tips for successfully buying, selling and shipping goods. 2 It's a Wonderful LIFE 6 Letter From Eileen 8 Looking Back 10 Caregiver Corner Three Keys to Finding Your Groove as a Dementia Caregiver 12 Medicare & You Medicare & Marketplace Health Insurance 24 Fresh Food Delivered Fast: Gourmet Meal Kits Delivered to Your Porch 26 Table for Two 30 Mindbender & Puzzles 31 Puzzle Partners 32 Bunkering With Books 33 Noteworthy 34 Share Your Time & Talent 35 Business Directory 36 People & Places 37 Classifieds 39 Vintage Friends
LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine | December 2021
LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine is published monthly by LIFE Senior Services (a Tulsa Area United Way nonprofit) and helps fulfill LIFE Senior Services’ mission to promote and preserve independence for seniors. This publication is printed and mailed at no charge. Donations of any amount are appreciated and will help offset LIFE Senior Services’ production costs. A donation of $25 per year is suggested. To make a donation, visit www.LIFEseniorservices.org or call (918) 664-9000. 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., 2021. All rights reserved. Reproduction without consent of the publisher is prohibited. Volume 36, Issue 6, December 2021 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.
www.LIFEseniorservices.org
WE WANT TO HELP YOU SAVE TIME AND MONEY!
For your convenience, Tulsa County Treasurer’s Office will receive payments at the following locations on the dates and times shown. Tax payments taken at the bank locations must be in the form of cash or check. For other payment options refer to back of tax statement.
PLEASE NOTE: We do not offer offsite locations for second half payments. City and bank guidelines will be followed in regards to the requirement of face masks.
NOVEMBER 29 – DECEMBER 3 BIXBY
TULSA
BROKEN ARROW
American Bank & Trust Co. 6060 American Plaza (61st & Yale) Mon. – Thurs. • 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Fri. – 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Vast Bank 13112 S. Memorial Dr. Mon. – Fri.•9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Tulsa County Court Clerk Satellite Office 123 N. Main St., Ste. B Mon. – Fri.• 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
JENKS
TULSA
BancFirst 200 E. Main St. Mon. – Fri. •9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
MidFirst Bank 3140 S. Garnett Rd. (31st & Garnett) Mon. – Thurs. • 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Fri. – 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
DECEMBER 6 - DECEMBER 10 BROKEN ARROW
TULSA
MidFirst Bank American Bank & Trust Co. 2400 N. 9th St. 6060 American Plaza Mon. – Thurs.• 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. (61st & Yale) Fri.• 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Mon. – Thurs. • 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Fri. • 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
JENKS
BancFirst 200 E. Main St. Mon. – Fri. • 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
OWASSO
First Bank of Owasso 8601 N. Garnett Rd. Mon. – Fri. • 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
TULSA
MidFirst Bank 3140 S. Garnett Rd. (31st & Garnett) Mon. – Thurs. • 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Fri. • 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
DECEMBER 13 - DECEMBER 17 (17th until 12:00 p.m.)
GLENPOOL
BancFirst 394 E. 141st St. Mon. – Thurs. • 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Fri. • 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
SAND SPRINGS
BancFirst 301 E. 2nd St. Mon. – Thurs. • 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Fri. • 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
OWASSO
First Bank of Owasso 8601 N. Garnett Rd. Mon. – Thurs. • 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. Fri. • 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
TULSA
Bank of Oklahoma (Community Room) 1604 N. Lewis Ave. (Pine & Lewis) Mon. – Thurs. • 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Fri. • 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
TULSA
Security Bank 10727 E. 51st St. S. (U.S. 169 & 51st) Mon. – Thurs. • 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Fri. • 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Come by to see us. We are here to serve you! Due to COVID, please call (918) 596-5071 or visit www.treasurer.tulsacounty.org to ensure the bank location you are visiting is open before going.
John M. Fothergill • Tulsa County Treasurer • 218 W. 6th St., 8th Fl.• (918) 596-5071
Comforts Enjoy the
of Home.
Excelling at living life #SaferAtSeniorStar is a top priority within our communities! Our dining rooms are open, our activity calendars are complete, and our apartments are ready to tour. At Senior Star, we take pride in providing a safe, warm, and inviting place for retirees and independent living residents to live and enjoy an active, fulfilling life.
Burgundy Place
Floor Plans Studio . . . . . . . . . . . . 371-456 sq . ft . 1 BD / 1 BA . . . . .560-800 sq . ft . 2 BD / 1 BA . . . . .746-843 sq . ft . 2 BD / 2 BA . . . . .776-881 sq . ft . Call for Pricing & Availability
Woodland Terrace
918.614.0937 918.578.4070 8887 S. Lewis Ave., Tulsa, OK 74137 9524 East 71st St., Tulsa, OK 74133 seniorstar.com/burgundyplace
www.LIFEseniorservices.org
seniorstar.com/woodlandterrace
LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine | December 2021
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LETTER FROM EILEEN Dear Vintage Reader, It’s the holiday season – hooray! I am so ready! Whether you celebrate Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanza or Boxing Day, I hope this time of year is filled with meaning and love. My favorite song starts with the line, “I want a house with a crowded table.” It captures exactly how I feel.
Photo by Jessica Karin Trout
Eileen Bradshaw
President and CEO LIFE Senior Services, LIFE PACE, Vintage Housing eileen.bradshaw@LIFEseniorservices.org
(918) 664-9000 www.LIFEseniorservices.org
Senior Living
Designed For You, By You
Nothing makes me happier than pulling up every available chair and sharing time with friends and family. Holidays always exemplified this philosophy, at least until last year. I was fortunate to be with family last year, but not my extended family and friends as I had been in the past. For the first time in my memory, I couldn’t simply hand gifts to everyone I wanted to celebrate with. They were far-flung, and I had to get creative. This issue of LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine celebrates delivery of all sorts: the U.S. Postal Service, FedEx, UPS, Santa Claus and more. COVID-19 heightened my appreciation of these services. I like to shop, and happily spend hours searching aisles for just the right gift. However, I have found some great delivered gift options. They don’t substitute for the fun of seeing your friends and family open the gifts, but they can be convenient and creative. These are only a few of the many options out there. There are some great options for kids. The Picture Book Club (www.picturebook.com) delivers picture books monthly to pre-readers, so it keeps giving all year. The World Wildlife Federation (www.wwf.org) offers a wonderful array of endangered species to “adopt.” The most affordable option includes a plush version of the animal selected, an information card and an adoption certificate. Proceeds go to protect the species, and it’s a great way to gently educate kids on conservation. Baketivity (www.baketivity.com) is a monthly subscription that sends ingredients and recipes written in kid-friendly language so recipients can bake items like cake pops, soft pretzels and other treats.
The Vinyl Postcard idea is a fun option for any age, and is affordable (www.vinylpost.co). Each month, the recipient receives a vinyl postcard, beautifully illustrated. The postcard also functions as a record that plays on a turntable. The monthly offering includes a handwritten note from the musician and a version that can be downloaded. It’s a unique way to connect with the music lovers in your life, allowing them to discover up-andcoming artists. You can get subscriptions for cool wreaths at www.food52.com. Food52 sends a beautiful, natural wreath every three months. I like this because it can be a gift for the whole household. It is also nice for seniors who may be in an apartment or assisted living facility to personalize their doors. If you’ve missed traveling, check out www.undiscovered-artisan-box.com. Each quarter, gift subscription recipients will receive a box focused on the culture of a country and information on its culture. They get to choose five artisanal items from a variety of options from that country. It’s an adventure in a box! Food and drink are always popular, and there are so many options. The Tamale Company (www.thetamalecompany.com) is a personal favorite and a gift that can be for the whole family. They ship wonderful tamales in a variety of flavors, and a dozen starts at $19.99. Finally, The Dollar Tea Club (www.theteaclub.com) offers one-time or monthly gifts of special teas, starting at just $3 for a one-time gift. You can even add in honey sticks! I hope this holiday season “delivers” all you wish for. Thank you for being part of our Vintage family.
Eileen Bradshaw, President and CEO
At Country Club At Woodland Hills you can choose from a host of professionally curated events and activities or set your own agenda! Either way your all-inclusive, affordable lifestyle will keep you active and inspired, every day!
918.221.0615
CountryClubAtWoodlandHills.com 6333 S. 91st East Ave.,Tulsa, OK 74133
Cottages | Active Independent Living | Residential Care ©2021 Discovery Senior Living. All Rights Reserved. Prices, plans and programs are subject to change or withdrawal without notice. Void where prohibited by law. Managed and Operated by Discovery Senior Living. CCWH-0225 9/21
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LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine | December 2021
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Like peas and carrots, your plan and provider go hand-in-hand.
Attend one of our weekly Medicare education events to learn about the basics of Medicare and how your Primary Care Provider can help you maximize your benefits.
Where:
When:
Oak Street Health - Lewis Ave 1538 N Lewis Ave, Tulsa Phone: (918) 725-1878
Every Tuesday at noon in November
Call to RSVP
(847) 250-9071
Oak Street Health - Garnett Plaza 11511 E. 31st Street, Tulsa Phone: (918) 615-4938
Doctors for adults on Medicare
How
you like to live
The truth about Cedarhurst. Cedarhurst creates communities faithful to one big idea: Every person should feel loved, valued, supported and able to safely live life to the fullest. Discover senior living that unfailingly respects every individual. The Cedarhurst Promise.TM We promise. If you’re not satisfied and decide to move out within your first 60 days, we’ll give you a complete refund.*
Call now (918) 201-1540 to schedule your tour. 7345 S. 99th East Ave., Tulsa, OK 74133 • CedarhurstWoodlandHills.com Independent Living *Cedarhurst Promise™ program is only available at advertised community. Not applicable for respite or other short-term stays. Refund is available only if move out is a result of dissatisfaction with Cedarhurst community as documented throughout stay. Complete refund includes base rent, level of care charges, and community fee. Ancillary services fees (ex. additional transportation, pet fees and laundry charges) do not qualify for refund. Additional terms and conditions may apply. Please contact community for additional details. Void where prohibited.
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LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine | December 2021
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Ralph R. Johnson, assistant postmaster, escorts the mail wagon from the post office to the train station in the 1910s.
Looking Back Special Delivery
Milo T. Reed delivers the first free delivery letter in Tulsa on May 1, 1908. It was mailed to Mrs. S.M. Pittman at 309 S. Boulder Ave.
Tulsa Historical Society & Museum 2445 S. Peoria Ave., Tulsa All photos courtesy of Tulsa Historical Society & Museum
Postal clerks Mr. Gilmore (left) and F.E. Bossard work at the Tulsa Post Office customer windows in 1909.
A National Air Transport mail plane carries the first air mail delivery out of Tulsa in 1928. Courtesy of Beryl Ford Collection/Rotary Club of Tulsa.
This Month in History DECEMBER 6, 1887: Washington Monument Completed
Workers completed the Washington Monument by topping the white marble tower with a 9-inch aluminum pyramid on this date. Construction began in 1848 but was delayed by the Civil War. The monument is made up of some 36,000 blocks of marble and granite stacked 555 feet in the air. A city law ensures the monument will remain the tallest structure in Washington, D.C., a fitting tribute to the Father of our Country.
DECEMBER 11, 1936: Edward VIII Abdicates
Edward VIII became the British monarch upon his father’s death in 1936. He wanted to marry Wallis Simpson, an American socialite who had divorced two previous husbands. The proposal caused a major scandal, and the king renounced the throne on December 10. The next day, Parliament approved his abdication, bringing an end to Edward’s reign. The couple married in France the next spring and were together until Edward’s death in 1972.
DECEMBER 14, 1911: First
Explorer Reaches the South Pole
Norwegian Roald Amundsen became the first explorer to reach the South Pole, beating British rival Robert F. Scott. Amundsen relied on sleigh dogs while Scott used Siberian motor sleds, ponies and dogs. Amundsen arrived first while Scott’s motor sleds broke down. Scott and some of his team members perished. Amundsen started a shipping business but lost his life in 1928 trying to rescue a fellow explorer whose dirigible had crashed at sea.
DECEMBER 15, 1791: U.S. Bill of Rights Ratified
The new United States of America ratified the first 10 amendments to the U.S. Constitution, called The Bill of Rights. The document guarantees the civil rights and liberties of U.S. citizens including freedom of religion, speech and the press. James Madison proposed the amendments (and seven others that didn’t make the final cut) to “fortify the rights of the people against the encroachments of the government.”
DECEMBER 23, 1888:
Vincent van Gogh Cuts Off His Ear Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh suffered from mental illness when he cut off part of his left ear with a razor while living in Arles, France. Van Gogh suffered from severe depression and had threatened fellow artist Paul Gauguin with the blade before turning it on himself. Despite his mental health issues, he produced some of his best works during his time in France including his sunflower series and Starry Night.
DECEMBER 26, 1946:
Bugsy Siegel Opens Flamingo Hotel Infamous gangster Bugsy Siegel opened the glitzy Flamingo Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada to a less-than-stellar turnout. Bad weather prevented many Hollywood guests from attending, though singer and comedian Jimmy Durante headlined the night’s entertainment. The hotel struggled and was closed after two weeks, reopening later as The Fabulous Flamingo. Siegel was killed in June 1947, reportedly by fellow mobsters who thought he was stealing the profits. © www.loc.gov/collections/today-in-history
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LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine | December 2021
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LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine | December 2021
9
CAREGIVER CORNER
Three Keys to Finding Your Groove as a Dementia Caregiver By Teepa Snow, Positive Approach to Care
Have you or someone you know recently become a caregiver? The role as a caregiver, or care partner, as I prefer to call them, for someone who is living with dementia is often enormously challenging. It is no surprise that many family care partners, most of whom are untrained and did not necessarily plan to be in this role, experience depression, anxiety, stress and burnout. You have likely heard many times that it is impossible to help others when you are struggling with your own physical and psychological health. The health of care partners is just as important as those living with dementia, and your ability to provide care depends on it. To help you find your groove in your role as a care partner, here are three aspects to keep in mind as you transition into your role. DEVELOP A GROWTH MINDSET FOR NEW DEMENTIA CARE SKILLS Improve your care partner experience by expanding your knowledge and skills. Whether you choose to attend a course, read books, watch a video or all of the above, learning more about dementia and some practical techniques for improving your hands-on skills will make an immense difference in quality of life both for you and the individual you care for. It is also possible that learning more may help you recognize the value of having someone else take on that aspect of care, rather than adding it to your list of responsibilities.
learning the art of calling a time out, stepping back and rethinking the situation is important. When you can pause and consider the situation from the perspective of the individual living with dementia, then you may be able to respond rather than react to the situation. This leads to an improvement in your ability to provide care and outcomes that recognize the changing reality of what is possible, probable and doable. EDITOR’S NOTE
Teepa Snow is one of the world's leading advocates for anyone living with dementia or other forms of brain change. An occupational therapist with more than 40 years of experience, she founded Positive Approach to Care (PAC) in 2007. She is also the author of "Understanding the Changing Brain: A Positive Approach to Dementia Care."
Learn more at www.teepasnow.com.
Once you have learned a new technique, put it into practice right away. It may help to set aside a small amount of time, even five minutes a day, dedicated to practicing the skill. TRY TO SEE THINGS FROM THEIR POINT OF VIEW Another suggestion to improve your interactions as a care partner is to develop the ability to see the world from the perspective of the person living with dementia. It is essential to remember that mistakes will happen and that “uh-ohs” lead to “aha” moments! However,
Ask SeniorLine What is Sundowning?
Friday, December 17 2 p.m. • LIFE's Facebook Page
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TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF, TOO Self-care is another essential piece of improving your life as a family care partner. While you may agree with the theory of self-care, putting it into practice is often easier said than done. However, a little is certainly better than none! If you feel guilty taking time for yourself, set a timer for just 10 minutes and do something you love – read a chapter of a book, call a friend or take a walk. Regular exercise, hydration, eating a healthy diet and attempting to get an adequate amount of sleep are also ways for you to stay as physically and cognitively healthy as possible. Finding emotional support is essential, too. If you don’t have family members or friends who can provide you this support, I would strongly encourage an in-person or virtual support group specifically for family care partners. Until there’s a cure, there’s care – and you are an essential part of the dementia care journey.
About one-third of seniors diagnosed with dementia suffer from sundowning, or increased confusion that occurs later in the afternoon and into the night. SeniorLine Supervisor Chelsea Edwards will discuss sundowning behaviors and strategies that can help at 2 p.m. Friday, December 17 on LIFE’s Facebook at www.facebook.com/LIFESeniorServices.
Teepa's Tips for Repetitive Questions Here is an example of how a care partner, who is skilled in communication techniques, can manage repeated questions: Mom: “Where’s Dad?” She has already asked this question several times this morning, and your father, unfortunately, passed away over 10 years ago. You: “You’re wondering where Dad is?” Reflecting back her words helps her feel that you heard and understood them. Mom: “Yes, where is he?” She is getting a bit anxious. You: “You really want to find Dad.” If she is feeling upset, match your tone of voice with hers, which demonstrates empathy. You: “Now tell me, are you wanting Dad because you are needing him to do something, or you’re just wanting to be with him?” Asking this question helps you understand the why behind her question. Mom: “Well, I’m just missing him. Where is he?” You: “You’re really missing dad right now. You two are quite a pair. I was thinking about when he took you on that trip to the Grand Canyon and he accidentally dropped the binoculars over the edge.” Acknowledging her emotion and then discussing a memory of the individual can help ease the loneliness she is experiencing. Note that you said “I was thinking about…” rather than “Do you remember...” in case she might not recall that particular event at that moment. Also note that telling her again that your father has passed away – when you know she will not remember in a few hours – is likely to cause another round of grief and will increase, rather than ease, her distress.
See page 25 for more information.
LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine | December 2021
www.LIFEseniorservices.org
Home is where the heart is.
At Aberdeen Heights Assisted Living and Aberdeen Memory Care of Tulsa, our compassionate associates are dedicated to making your loved one feel right at home. Peace of mind truly starts here.
Schedule your personal tour today!
918.496.0123 AberdeenHeights.com 7220 S. Yale Avenue Tulsa, OK 74136
918.591.2525 AberdeenMC.com
7210 S. Yale Avenue Tulsa, OK 74136
AL 7201-7201 AL 7258-7258
Life is better at home. When your loved one needs extra care at home, choosing the right caregiver agency can be tough. Let BrightStar Care® make it easier. • Your loved one’s care is supervised by a Registered Nurse. Having a nurse on your side can make a big difference as needs change. • We’ll provide a plan of care tailored around your loved one’s needs with our Registered Nurse conducting regular supervisory visits.
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LIFE’s Senior Center Get Fit. Have Fun. Meet New Friends. Join now to start enjoying social, creative,educational, fitness and health activities.
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LIFE’s Senior Center at Southminster 3500 S. Peoria Ave. LIFE’s Senior Center at East Side 1427 Indianapolis Ave. FOLLOW US ON
LIFE’s SeniorLine (918) 664-9000 www.LIFEseniorservices.org
LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine | December 2021
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Medicare Open Enrollment with LIFE Senior Services
MEDICARE & YOU
Medicare & Marketplace Health Insurance BY KATHY JONES, MEDICARE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM SUPERVISOR
I
f you have coverage through an individual Health Insurance Marketplace Plan (not through an employer) and are turning 65, you may have questions about what to expect when you become eligible for Medicare. Marketplace health insurance is designed to help people who don’t have any health coverage. In most cases, if you have a Marketplace plan when you become eligible for Medicare, you’ll want to end your Marketplace coverage when Medicare starts. Do not end your Marketplace plan until you know for sure when your new coverage will start. Once you cancel Marketplace coverage, you can’t re-enroll until the next annual Open Enrollment Period, unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. Can I get a Marketplace plan in addition to Medicare? No, it’s against the law for someone who knows that you have Medicare to sell you a Marketplace plan, even if you only have Part A or Part B. Once you’re considered eligible for Part A, you won’t qualify for help paying your Marketplace plan
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premiums or other medical costs. If you continue to get help through tax credits and reduced costsharing, you might have to pay back the help you received when you file your taxes. Can I choose Marketplace coverage instead of Medicare? There are some situations where you can choose Marketplace coverage instead of Medicare: • You can choose Marketplace coverage if you’re eligible for Medicare but haven’t enrolled because you would have to pay a premium for Part A or because you’re not collecting Social Security benefits. • If you are paying a premium for Part A, you can drop your Part A and Part B coverage and get a Marketplace plan. How do I cancel my Marketplace coverage? In most cases, the steps you take to cancel depend on whose coverage is being canceled.
LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine | December 2021
Ending coverage for just the household contact: • The household contact is usually the person who created the Marketplace account and filled out the application. You must contact the Marketplace to change the household contact if others in your household are staying on the plan. Ending coverage for everyone or just some people on your plan: • You can end coverage for everyone on your Marketplace plan by going online or calling the Marketplace call center. Your termination can take effect in as few as 14 days from the day you cancel your health insurance or up to 14 days after you notify the Marketplace plan that you are canceling your insurance. • You can also end coverage for just some of the people on your Marketplace plan by going online or calling the Marketplace call center at (800) 318-2596 or TTY: (855) 889-4325. Sources: www.healthcare.gov, www.medicare.gov
Final Day to Enroll is December 7 The Medicare Assistance Program at LIFE Senior Services is offering more ways to help you determine if your Medicare Part D plan will still meet your needs in 2022. Both phone and face-to-face appointments are available to help you compare your options from the safety of your own home or at a location nearby. MAP on the MOVE will schedule in-person appointments at the Owasso Senior Center, Broken Arrow Senior Center, the Dream Center and LIFE’s Senior Center at Southminster. Services will still be provided by LIFE's trained Medicare counselors. LIFE can even offer transportation to the appointment this year if you need it.
To schedule your Part D comparison appointment, call (918) 664-9000, ext. 1189.
Please let LIFE's Medicare counselors know if you will need transportation to and from your appointment. 48-HOUR NOTICE REQUIRED
www.LIFEseniorservices.org
Learn to Play Bridge Quickly! Route 66
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Estate Planning Trusts, Probate Elder Exploitation Complimentary Consultation southtulsalaw.com 918-512-1800 | 888-970-8760 Brian A. Crain, Attorney
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Opt out of average senior living ! Schedule your personal tour and see why your friends and neighbors are choosing the Bellarose life!
918.355.0151 | BellaroseLife.com 18001 E. 51st Street Tulsa, OK 74134 AL 7240-7240
www.LIFEseniorservices.org
LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine | December 2021
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US
ON
PERAT O S I P
Santa BY LINDSAY MORRIS
Since Santa has so much work delivering gifts around the world each December, the U.S. Post Office stepped up to help the big guy with his paperwork. Did you know you can take part in making someone’s holiday wishes come true?
Have you ever wondered what happens to all of those letters to Santa Claus? The United States Postal Service – then the Post Office Department – began receiving letters to Santa more than 100 years ago. Postmaster Frank Hitchcock authorized local postmasters to let postal workers read and respond to the letters starting in 1912. The program became known as USPS Operation Santa. In the 1940s, USPS Operation Santa opened to the public. Letters poured in. Charitable organizations, businesses and individuals rose to the occasion to provide gifts for those who wrote their Christmas wishes to Santa. The letters went online in 2017, making it easier for even more people to get involved in granting the Christmas wishes of thousands of children and families. USPS Operation Santa has been fulfilling wishes since 1912.
Photo courtesy of www.uspsoperationsanta.com
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HOW TO SEND A LETTER TO SANTA Anyone, anywhere in the country can send a letter to USPS Operation Santa, according to Kim Frum, senior public relations representative for USPS.
LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine | December 2021
All letters sent to the program must include a full return address, correct postage and be mailed via the USPS to Santa’s official workshop address: Santa Claus 123 Elf Road North Pole, 88888 The address is more important than the name, according to Frum. The letter could be sent to Santa, St. Nick or Kris Kringle. As long as the address is correct, it will reach its destination. Any appropriately addressed, stamped letter received by the program may be published at www.uspsoperationsanta.com. Although the goal is to fulfill every wish, there is no guarantee that a letter will be adopted. Letters are not evaluated for worthiness in any way; they are published for the public to decide which ones they want to adopt, Frum says. USPS OPERATION SANTA, continued on page 16.
www.LIFEseniorservices.org
A MEETING OF HOPE TREATMENT WITH DR. JAMES WEBB
Why did you choose Dr. Webb?
It started with a car wreck when I was 25, and my back just kept getting worse and worse. I didn’t know how long I could keep working. I saw a lot of doctors, but the outlook was depressing. I was on a lot of pain medicine. Today if you’re depending on pills, you’re part of the opioid crisis. But I could still barely move, barely walk. I had to convince myself to get out of bed every morning. I was tired of living like that, tired of hurting. My primary back doctor was at his wit’s end trying to get my back better, and he sent me to Dr. Webb.
What procedure did you have done?
He’s done epidural steroid injections. You’d think they’d hurt, but they didn’t. He did ablations that helped. He found spinal fractures which no doctor had ever found. He’s performed kyphoplasty which basically glues bones together, and it’s worked great.
Searching for a new apartment?
What was your experience like?
ts ll Pe Sma me o Welc
Dr. Webb’s office is a one-stop shop on anything and everything you need to help your back. Dr. Webb is awesome. I love the guy, but it’s not just him. His whole staff is wonderful – considerate, caring, thorough. You’re not just a number going in there. It’s very refreshing that way. He draws your blood, checks your hormones and vitamin levels. He helps the whole patient.
Sheridan Terrace
Would you refer him?
Independent Senior Living • All bills paid
• Inside hallways
• Quiet location
• Emergency call system
• Small pets welcome
• Subsidy available
(918) 835-7072 1937 S. 68th E. Ave. | Tulsa, OK (NE of 21st and Sheridan)
Sheridan Terrace does not discriminate against individuals with handicaps.
I’ve been going through this for 20 some years, and Dr. Webb is the first one who has gotten me out of 95% of my pain. He has changed my life; he gave me a life. I would recommend him to anybody that has given up hope, thinking “I will be like this for the rest of my life. This is just what I have to deal with.” If you give him a chance, he can help. I’ve never felt better in my whole life.
Dr. James Webb
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www.drjameswebb.com 6550 E. 71st St., Ste. 200 • Tulsa, OK 74133
LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine | December 2021
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USPS OPERATION SANTA, continued from page 14.
Frum offered tips for making letters more appealing so they have a better chance of being chosen. Make sure the letter is legible and has a return address on either the envelope, letter or both. It's also good to have specific requests. If the writer wants clothes, they should include sizes, colors and styles. List the names of any toys and games desired. If a book is on the wish list, be sure to add the title and author. Of course, some of the most touching letters don’t mention gifts. In 2020, many children asked Santa to find a cure for COVID-19. Trent, age 6, wanted to know more about Santa himself. “My dad says you are hundreds of years old. How is that possible? What do you eat? When do you take a shower?” Trent’s only Christmas wish was to cuddle with the big guy. A child named TaJa asked if Santa could do something special for her grandparents: “They always help other people, but now
they are both sick and can’t do much these days so I’m reaching out to you Santa. Just wish I could do something special for them this year.” HOW TO PLAY SANTA Companies, as well as individuals, can adopt Operation Santa letters. For security reasons, potential adopters must be vetted by going through a short registration and identity verification process before they are allowed to adopt any letter. The program is anonymous to protect the safety of the participants. USPS does not provide names of the letter writers, adopters or family members of anyone participating in the program. Potential adopters can register and become verified starting in midNovember, and adoptions begin around Thanksgiving, Frum said. The program officially ends on December 19 in order to get all gifts delivered before Christmas. In 2020, 23,860 letters were adopted.
If you are interested in adopting a child or family through USPS Operation Santa, go to www.uspsoperationsanta.com. After registering, you will shop for the present, wrap it and take it to a participating post office. They will make sure the gift or gifts get loaded up on Santa’s sleigh!
North Pole Postmark
HOW TO RECEIVE A NORTH POLE POSTMARK: 1. Have your child write a letter to Santa and place it in an envelope addressed to: Santa Claus, North Pole. 2. Once you’re alone, open the envelope and write a personalized response on the back of your child’s letter and sign it “from Santa.” 3. Take the letter and place it into an envelope addressed to your child. Write Santa’s return address in the upper left corner: Santa, North Pole, and place a first-class stamp in the upper right corner. Place that entire envelope into a larger envelope with appropriate postage affixed to the outside and address it to:
Did you know that kids (and kids at heart!) can get a return stamp from the North Pole? The North Pole postmark is for anyone who wants to add a special holiday touch to their holiday greeting cards, or for those parents who want to make sure their child gets an answer to their letter to Santa. The North Pole Postmark is not related to USPS Operation Santa.
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LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine | December 2021
NORTH POLE POSTMARK POSTMASTER 4141 POSTMARK DR. ANCHORAGE, AK 99530-9998
The recommended mail-by date in order to receive a response before December 25 is December 6. www.LIFEseniorservices.org
We are 100% Employee-Owned
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ASSISTED LIVING & MEMORY CARE IN MIDTOWN The holidays are the perfect time to tour The Grove at Midtown! Tinsel and joy fill our newly remodeled community. Call for more information about our holiday events and Respite Care Specials today! PET friendly
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444 S. Sheridan • (918) 835-9577 www.LIFEseniorservices.org
CLAREMORE Claremore Skilled Nursing & Therapy 920 E 16th Street 918-341-4857 ClaremoreOKLA.com
OKMULGEE Woodlands Skilled Nursing & Therapy 1701 E 6th Street 918-756-1967 WoodlandsOK.com
The Courtyards at Claremore Assisted Living Memory Care 915 E 16th Street 918-343-3850 AL.ClaremoreOKLA.com
TAHLEQUAH Sequoyah Pointe Skilled Nursing & Therapy 614 E Cherrie Street 918-456-2573 SequoyahOK.com
GLENPOOL Glenwood Skilled Nursing & Therapy 1700 E 141st Street 918-291-4230 GlenwoodOK.com
TAHLEQUAH University Park Memory Care Skilled Nursing & Therapy 1201 N Vinita Avenue 918-456-6181 UniversityParkOK.com
JENKS Grace Skilled Nursing & Therapy 711 N 5th Street 918-299-8508 GraceJenks.com MUSKOGEE The Springs Skilled Nursing & Therapy 5800 W Okmulgee Avenue 918-683-2914 SpringsOK.com
TULSA The Ambassador Skilled Nursing & Therapy 1340 E 61st Street 918-743-8978 AmbassadorOK.com The Courtyards at The Ambassador Memory Care Assisted Living 1380 E 61st Street 918-743-7887 AL.AmbassadorOK.com
LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine | December 2021
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GET IT ON YOUR
DOORSTEP The Rise of Home Delivery BY STEVE CLEM
Delivering goods to homes is not new. Delivery services, including the major players UPS, FedEx and the United States Postal Service, have been around for many years. However, the COVID-19 pandemic changed home delivery. It is now possible to place an order for almost anything – from tonight’s dinner to pharmaceuticals to a new car – and have it delivered to your doorstep. Last holiday season, before vaccines were available, a record number of Americans stayed home and purchased online. U.S. online shopping over the holidays grew 32% from the previous year. Sales totaled $188.2 billion, according to Adobe Analytics. In this current season of the Delta variant and vaccine boosters, although more people are expected to go out shopping, the trend of maximum convenience and minimum contact continues.
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WEST COAST GIANTS
Ironically, two giants in home delivery today got their starts in Seattle, Washington, separated by nearly a century. In 1907, teenage entrepreneurs Claude Ryan and Jim Casey began a package delivery service in their Pacific Northwest basement with a $100 loan. When their American Messenger Company expanded into California in 1919, they changed its name to United Parcel Service (UPS). That same year, the company began painting company vehicles brown, a color that to them signified sophistication, class and professionalism. By mid-20th century, UPS offered commercial and residential shipping services to major cities around the country. In 1985, it achieved the milestone of providing next-day service to every address in the contiguous 48 states.
LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine | December 2021
Randy Gleissner has delivered for UPS for 32 years.
The better part of a century after UPS came into being, a Wall Street executive quit his job and moved to Seattle to concentrate on e-commerce – selling goods using the new technology of the internet. Jeff Bezos began looking for items that were inexpensive to sell online and economical to ship to customers. He chose books. Searching the dictionary for a company name that would show up first in alphabetical listings, Bezos selected a word with an exotic connotation: Amazon!
PRIMED FOR DELIVERY
Bezos launched Amazon as an online bookseller in 1995. The company began expanding beyond books in 1998. In 2005, Amazon rolled out its gamechanging Amazon Prime free two-day shipping www.LIFEseniorservices.org
service more than one million in-stock items, available for $79 a year. That club now has 81 million U.S. subscribers at the current annual fee of $119. Since 2019, the company has invested in mini-fulfillment centers across the country to offer one-day shipping. There are now at least a dozen U.S. cities, including Tulsa, where their customers can receive their shipments in as little as five hours. UPS, a major player in the delivery service industry, competes directly with FedEx and the United States Postal Service. A recent survey of online retailers named UPS as the preferred shipper for large packages.
Senior living, with promise.
A MAN IN BROWN
Randy Gleissner is in the driver’s seat – where he has been for the past 32 years – as a driver for UPS. Each morning, he picks up his truck, or “package car” as UPS calls them, and heads out for his customers in Claremore. Since the pandemic, the contents of Gleissner’s truck have changed. “Everything you see in your home, we’re delivering. Also, the swing set and trampoline in your backyard. Anything and everything,” he said. He paused. “I have delivered 12 packs of Pepsi.” UPS also is a courier for COVID vaccines. “For those shipments, we have tracking devices on each box, so we know where that package is every second,” Gleissner said. “Instead of being put on a conveyor belt, they are hand sorted. And on the trucks, they are delivered first.” Gleissner recalled the challenges of delivering in the early days of the pandemic. “With businesses closed, people were giving me keys, or keypad codes, so I could get inside and drop off packages,” he said. “At the courthouse, I left packages on a table in the foyer. Then, they were sprayed with disinfectant. Then, they went to the offices.” While more people are forecast to go back to stores this holiday season, Gleissner believes trends that started during the pandemic are here to stay.
Covenant Living at Inverness | Tulsa, OK 3800 West 71st Street Limited availability! • Independent & Assisted Living Skilled Nursing • Memory Care • Rehabilitation To schedule a tour today, call (877) 478-8455, or visit us online at CovLivingInverness.org.
“Used to be if a man wanted a new smoker, he would go to the store, pick one out and bring it home," he said. "But now, he shops for it online and we deliver it to him.”
HELP FOR THE HOLIDAYS
Both UPS and FedEx offer services that can help keep items safe from what Gleissner calls “porch pirates.” Those services include diverting packages to another address, leaving them with a neighbor or having them delivered on a different day. UPS Store services include boxing oddly-shaped items, packing breakables and handling returns. “We work with Amazon and other stores to make returns as easy as possible,” Gleissner said. “Recently, an older customer ordered a new dining room table. Well, the table was not what she wanted. I was notified that she had a return; I went by her house and picked it up,” he said. “That made it easy for her, to just pick up the phone or do it online and have me go by and get it.” Gleissner thinks there may be a misconception with some people about holding packages on their trucks. “I can’t speak for other companies, but at UPS we deliver everything that is on the truck every day. This is why you see UPS drivers out, especially during Christmas, until 10 or 11 o’clock at night delivering packages.”
Covenant Living of Bixby | Bixby, OK 7300 East 121st Place South Available now! • Independent & Assisted Living Excellent service, worry-free living • No buy-in fee! To schedule a tour today, call (877) 312-3248, or visit us online at CovLivingBixby.org.
“Whether it is someone waiting on their medication or a birthday or Christmas present, we know that package is important. We stay out until they are all delivered!” Covenant Living is a ministry of the Evangelical Covenant Church. For information, visit CovLiving.org.
www.LIFEseniorservices.org
LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine | December 2021
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Fabulo
H O L I DAY G
For the Coffee Crew DoubleShot Coffee Company 1633 S. Boulder Ave. www.doubleshotcoffee.com
Other Considerations
In addition to delicious brewed coffee, the DoubleShot Coffee Company at East 16th Street and South Boulder offers whole beans, coffee gear, baked goods and a variety of market items. Owner Brian Franklin travels the world, visiting farms and bringing back beans to roast on site. For $23.50, try a half-pound of La Minita beans from Costa Rica, a package of fresh-baked English muffins and a jar of homemade jam. Visit their website for online shopping, curbside pickup, local delivery and shipping.
Glacier Chocolates 1902 Utica Square www.glacierchocolate.com
Cricket & Fig Chocolate 5800 S. Lewis Ave. www.cricketandfig.com
Rose Rock Microcreamery 502 E. 3rd St. www.roserockmicrocreamery.com
Shop online or in-person at three Tulsa locations for artisanal chocolates.
Order handcrafted chocolates, fruit jellies and dessert sauces for under $25. Customized, hand-written gift notes available.
Shop local for handcrafted ice cream in pints, sandwiches and pies. Online orders and delivery are available.
Craft Beer & More Marshall Brewing Company 1742 E. 6th St. www.marshallbrewing.com
This local brewery ushered in Tulsa’s craft brewing industry. Order six-packs of bottles or cans online for pick up at the Tap Room. Pair them with a branded stein, or a pilsner or pint glass, and you’ve created the perfect gift for your brew buddy. Shop T-shirts and hats ($23) or mugs and tumblers ($18), too. For more Marshall merchandise, visit their website.
Other Considerations
American Solera Brewery 1702 E. 6th St. www.americansolera.com
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LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine | December 2021
Dead Armadillo Craft Brewing 1004 E. 4th St. www.dabrewery.com
Heirloom Rustic Ales 2113 E. Admiral Blvd. www.heirloomrusticales.com
Cabin Boys Brewery 1717 E. 7th St. www.cabinboysbrewery.com
www.LIFEseniorservices.org
ous Finds BY JULIE WENGER WATSON
GIFTS UNDER $25
The Best in Barbecue
Quirky Curios Buck Atom’s Cosmic Curios 1347 E. 11th St www.buckatomson66.com
Located on Route 66, just east of Peoria on East 11th Street, it’s hard to miss Buck Atom’s Cosmic Curios. Look for the 21-foot-tall Space Cowboy, and you’re there. This diminutive gift shop is packed with affordable Mother Road souvenirs and unique Oklahoma novelties. Find plenty of postcards, magnets, mugs and tees for $25 and under.
Other Considerations Ida Red 208 N. Main St. 3336 S. Peoria Ave. 7890 E. 106th Pl. S. www.idaredgeneralstore.com Toys, socks, cards, candy and a variety of Oklahoma-themed gifts await at Ida Red’s three Tulsa locations. Online shopping and shipping are available.
Decopolis 1401 E. 11th St. www.decopolis.net
For the Music Lover The historic Cain’s Ballroom in the heart of downtown Tulsa is the home of Western Swing. Check out the calendar for upcoming concerts or shop for a tank or T-shirt ($20 - $25) for your favorite music fan. Ball caps and beanies are $25. Koozies, key chains and stickers ($2-$12) make perfect stocking stuffers. Shipping and local pickup are available.
Shop Tulsa’s nonprofit record label for vinyl ($25) and CDs ($15) from Oklahoma artists or T-shirts ($15-$20). Shipping is available.
www.LIFEseniorservices.org
Guitar House of Tulsa 1216 S. Harvard Ave. www.facebook.com/ guitarhouseoftulsa In addition to new and vintage guitars, Guitar House of Tulsa has a wide selection of music-related accessories for under $25, including capos, strings, guitar picks and straps, T-shirts and coffee mugs.
Head Country Bar-B-Q www.headcountry.com Making barbecue sauce since 1947, Ponca City’s Head Country also makes marinades and rub. Choose from a variety of sauce flavors, including the Original (20 oz. for $3.68). Find their products at local supermarkets, or shop online at the website.
For Fitness Freaks
Cain's Ballroom 423 N. Main St. www.cainsballroom.com
Horton Records www.hortonrecords.org
This company has been making award-winning charcoal grills since 1948 right here in Tulsa. Although the grills themselves are a significant investment, the company also sells BBQ sauce and rubs, T-shirts and hats and many grilling accessories – all for under $25. The All-Purpose Rub ($12.99), the Hasty Bake BBQ Sauce ($7.99) or the grill towel ($9.99) all make excellent gifts.
Other Considerations
This cool shop has gifts for all ages including Oklahoma and Tulsa souvenirs, spa products, books, toys and puzzles. Part store and part museum, you’ll see curiosities and wonders from the state’s early years. Online shopping and delivery are available.
Other Considerations
Hasty Bake 1313 S. Lewis Ave. www.hastybake.com
The Engine Room Boxing Gym 316 E. 11th St. www.engineroomboxing.com
Located in Tulsa’s Gunboat Park Neighborhood, The Engine Room has boxing training for fitness and competition. The gym also offers a Parkinson’s-specific boxing program called Ready to Fight, which is now the official therapy-boxing program of USA Boxing. During December, you can purchase a specially priced introductory personal training session – $25 for a halfhour session. It’s an affordable way to check out the sport, and it makes a great gift for your fitness friends. Visit their website for more information about the gym.
Other Considerations Tom’s Bicycles 2648 E. 11th St. and 6861 S. Peoria www.tomsbicycles.com
Find gloves, socks, water bottles and more for your cycling buddies.
LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine | December 2021
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SE
D
L
G AN N I L
G N I P SHIP WENGER
WATSON
Finding a Niche
JJ
BY JULIE
J
FOR
ASH C A R EXT
JJ
Enterprising seniors can earn a little – or a lot – by navigating the world of e-commerce. One Bixby woman tells how she found fun and renewed purpose equipped with a smartphone and postage scale. Would you like some extra cash? Consider a venture into the world of e-commerce. With a little time and a small investment, a side hustle selling things on online platforms like eBay, Etsy or Facebook can generate a steady income.
Packing and Shipping Packing
GLENDA REITH
Glenda Reith, former realtor and teacher, has been selling on eBay since 1999.
Setting Your Own Hours
A small postal scale will help sellers more accurately charge for shipping.
& Shipping
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LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine | December 2021
Many people first dip their toes into online sales to get rid of their “junk.” Selling the item, rather than giving or throwing it away, effectively turns trash into treasure. That’s how Bixby resident Glenda Reith started on eBay more than 20 years ago. An occasional hobby for years, it became more of a business about five years ago after she helped a family friend sort through her father’s estate. “He was an interesting man, and an avid photographer and collector,” Reith explained.
“This was her inheritance.” Reith helped her friend list and sell the items, emptying the home and generating some money for the woman in the process. For Reith, it gave her hobby a bigger purpose. “I love helping people who are going through difficult times in their life, either downsizing or after the death of a mother or father – going through their things and deciding what to do with them,” she said.
Reith estimates she makes about $1,000 each month with under 40 hours of work.
In determining what will sell, Reith keeps her eye on trends. She also relies on her gut.
“I could easily upscale it with a little more effort into $5,000 a month,” she said. “That’s a living.”
“I’ve always had the ability to find things and know they’re worth something,” she said. “Usually, it’s something that interests me. It’s something where I can see the quality. Sometimes it’s a tactile feel; sometimes it’s visual. Maybe you can appreciate the craftsmanship that went into it.”
She enjoys the job flexibility, allowing her to set her own hours and take vacations. She also feels a sense of pride in adding to the household finances. “I feel like I have something that’s mine,” she said of the business. “It gives me a sense of self-worth to be contributing, and it makes me happy.”
Reith suggests purchasing a small scale for your home (her scale weighs items up to 150 pounds). This allows you to more accurately estimate shipping fees, which ultimately affect your profit. Reith utilizes several shipping methods, including the U.S. Post Office and UPS, comparing prices to find the least expensive route. To ensure items arrive safely at their destination, packing is important. Reith will often
Her recent success stories include a felt Tiny Town (antique) doll named Honey, purchased for $1 at a garage sale and sold on eBay for $90, and a small, decorative ceramic pig bought for $3 at a thrift store and later sold for $55. double box delicate objects, adding padding between the layers. YouTube is full of videos showing practical ways to pack and ship all types of products. Choosing the right material and the right size container helps. With some knowledge, patience and a few tools, selling online might be a fun way to create an extra income stream. Next time you’re cleaning or decluttering, take a closer look at that “trash” before you toss.
www.LIFEseniorservices.org
LIFE PACE
Connects Older Adults to the Help They Need
Finding a Selling Platform Reith utilizes eBay as her primary selling platform. With millions of users, eBay allows selling in both an “auction format,” where potential buyers bid on the item, or “Buy it Now!” with a set price. It’s a good place to sell collectibles or other niche market items. However, the fees, including a listing fee, can be a drawback. Amazon is a good platform for selling at a fixed price. It’s also easy to see what other merchants are selling and where they’re setting their prices. In general, the fees associated with Amazon are cheaper than eBay. Craigslist is another easy avenue for e-commerce. It’s free to list, and there are no fees. It’s best suited for selling larger items locally, such as furniture and décor, which would be expensive to ship. The drawback, of course, is that you have to meet the buyer in person. It’s important to make those delivery arrangements with safety in mind. Choose a public place, such as a mall or a convenience store, to make the swap.
Getting Started With E-Commerce Reith has practical advice for those interested in selling online. “You need a smartphone,” Reith said.
You can use your phone for photographing your products, researching pricing and monitoring your sales.
You can use your phone for photographing your products, researching pricing and monitoring your sales. Reith often uses her phone to identify items she finds at estate or garage sales, doing Google searches onsite to determine exactly what something is and how it might sell. “The most difficult part in listing, besides knowing what to buy and how to price it, is getting it to look good in pictures,” she said. “Your pictures are selling it. That’s what differentiates you from another seller.”
m of All Inclusive Care for the Elderly Reith purchased a lightbox to use
when taking photographs of products with her smartphone. The box creates professional-quality photography lighting, with no shadows.
You’ll also need a way to manage your money. Reith chose PayPal to handle her transactions. She emphasizes the importance of knowing all the fees involved with both the online selling platform and the cash management app you use for transferring funds.
BY ADRIAN ROLLE, INTAKE MANAGER
People can feel pressured to enjoy themselves during the holidays. The season is supposed to be merry and bright, but some seniors feel increasingly isolated this time of year – even under more “normal” circumstances. With the end of the COVID-19 pandemic not yet in sight, it’s important to be supportive of our loved ones in ways that keep everyone as safe and healthy as possible. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, older adults who are socially isolated are at higher risk for depression. There is growing evidence that social isolation also affects physical health including increased emergency room visits and higher medical costs. Involvement in LIFE PACE – a Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly – may be the best gift an eligible senior can receive this holiday season. PACE is a comprehensive, coordinated senior healthcare program that uses a team approach to provide a variety of services: medical, skilled therapies (PT, OT and Speech), behavioral health, dietary, nursing, transportation, social workers, recreation, hospitalizations, in-home support, caregiver training, basic health supplies and durable medical equipment. One of the cornerstones of the PACE program is Adult Day Health. Attending Adult Day encourages your loved one to connect with others. Participants can also receive freshly prepared, nutritious meals and assistance with activities of daily living. Adult Day can serve as a safe and familiar place for your loved one to receive PACE services while giving caregivers a much-needed break to return to work, take care of personal business or simply relax. Best practices are implemented to keep participants safe. Temperature and symptom screenings, regular sanitation of high-contact surfaces, masks and social distancing work together to ensure participants can continue coming to Adult Day to socialize and stay engaged through the holidays and beyond.
PACE If you or someone you care about could benefit from LIFE PACE, contact a LIFE PACE specialist at (918) 938-7653 or (918) 938-7660 (en Español).
www.LIFEPACE.org
By Allied
www.LIFEseniorservices.org
LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine | December 2021
23
and organized. You can find options that account for dietary restrictions, including vegan, low-sodium and vegetarian meals or kits for people with diabetes or food allergies. Some low-cost options are available, including plans with reduced costs for those on a fixed income. Meal kits offer nutritional meal options that can help seniors live independently and make fewer trips to the grocery store.
FRESH FOOD DELIVERED FAST
Gourmet Meal Kits Delivered to Your Porch BY KAREN SZABO
Meal kits have been around for several years, but they soared in popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic. You’ve probably seen ads for meal kit delivery services like Blue Apron or Hello Fresh on television, in magazines and on social media. It's easy to feel overwhelmed by all the options. Some meal kits provide ingredients paired with recipes, while others send a ready-made meal to pop in the oven instead. All of them are meant to make the process of planning and cooking meals more convenient –
but are they worth the cost? Here’s what you need to know before signing up for a meal kit subscription service. WHY MEAL KITS MAKE SENSE The number one selling point of these kits is convenience – someone else does the prep work. Making dinner takes less time and meal planning is easier. Meal kits can expand your cooking skills and inspire you to try new ingredients. They can reduce food waste and help keep your refrigerator clean
THE DOWNSIDE OF MEAL KITS They’re more expensive than you think. Services are typically priced by meal, with complete meals ranging from $6 to $15 per serving. Unless you eat out frequently, chances are your monthly food budget will increase. It’s important to monitor your membership – and your lifestyle. Most meal packages include fresh ingredients that will spoil if you don’t use them. If you’re going out of town or have dinner plans during the week, you'll need to pause or alter your regular delivery. If you’re interested in a meal prep service, don’t try just one and call it a day. There are too many players on the field. Instead, consider all your options. Most meal services offer opportunities to try the service at a reduced rate. Give several services a shot for a week or two to determine which delivers your favorite meals and what works best for you and your budget.
Here is a list of some meal kits to help you decide if these services are the right fit for you.
HEAT AND EAT
SILVER CUISINE
MOM'S MEALS
Silver Cuisine offers more than 150 precooked meals, including breakfast, lunch and dinner. Meals arrive frozen, individually wrapped and packed with dry ice. Options include heart-healthy, gluten-free, diabetic-friendly, low sodium, low carb, menopausal support, dairy-free, Mediterranean and vegetarian.
Created for adults aged 60 and above, Mom’s Meals offers meals to recipients under Medicare Advantage, Medicaid and Older American Act programs as well as self-pay. Suitable for those with medical conditions like diabetes, kidney disease and difficulty swallowing. Meals are fresh and packaged to last up to 14 days.
Meals start at $5.49; no minimum order requirement. www.silvercuisine.com
24
Oklahoma Grown Farm to Doorstep Local Delivery Services
You can have Oklahoma’s freshest produce, meats and dairy delivered directly to your doorstep with local farm delivery subscription services.
LOCAL FARM OK
Farm bags from $19.99 www.localfarmok.com Local Farm OK’s locally grown products can be delivered to your home or office. The familyowned farm partners with other local farmers and food artisans to bring subscribers a variety of all-natural produce, farm-raised meats, dairy, eggs and artisanal food items to the Tulsa and Oklahoma City areas. After registering at their website, you select the type of bag and how often you want it delivered – weekly or every other week. You can also add other local items from their online store. You will receive recipes featuring the weekly contents of the farm bag.
GRASSROOTS RANCH & GRASSROOTS LARDER
Meat and other locally-produced products from $2.75 up www.grassrootsranch.com Grassroots Ranch uses sustainable farming methods to raise livestock in the Porter area. They sell and deliver their grass-fed beef, forested pork and pasture-raised chickens. They partner with other area farms and dairies for produce during the growing season, baked goods, local honey and more. Place an order on their website for delivery to Tulsa, Owasso, Sand Springs, Broken Arrow, Jenks, Bixby and Glenpool. They are opening a locally sourced grocery market called Grassroots Larder on Cherry Street.
Meals start at $6.99 plus shipping. www.momsmeals.com
LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine | December 2021
www.LIFEseniorservices.org
LIFE EDU DECEMBER 2021 “Ask SeniorLine” Friday, December 17 • 2 p.m. Pre-packaged meals that are nutritious and easy to heat and eat can be delivered to your front door.
BE THE CHEF BLUE APRON
Meals start at $7.49. Minimum order is $48 including shipping. www.blueapron.com Blue Apron is considered the best simple, no-fuss meal kit. Reviewers rate the meals as high quality and flavorful, and the recipe cards are large and easy to follow. Weekly menus have a heavy focus on Mediterranean-style meals, which feature lots of veggies and proteins. Dietary options include Weight Watchers-approved, vegetarian, carb-conscious, plant-based, diabetesfriendly and low calorie.
DINNERLY
Meals start at $4.07 per portion. Minimum order is $29 plus shipping. www.dinnerly.com This service keeps prices lower by providing digital-only recipe cards, using fewer ingredients per dish and simple packaging. You can choose a twoperson box or a four-person box. Select meals by entering keywords like low calorie, dairy-free or sub-30 minutes. Choices vary depending on the week.
KEEP IT LOCAL THE AFFORDABLE CHEF
Weekly plans range from $50.95 to $245. www.theaffordablechef.com Tulsa-based The Affordable Chef offers several package options ranging from six dinners-for-one per week to 30 meals per week, including breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks, as well as a la carte options. Many meals fit into paleo, keto or gluten-free categories. Meals are delivered Tuesdays and Fridays throughout the Tulsa area, Broken Arrow, Bixby and Jenks.
CHEFS FOR SENIORS
Plans start at $120 plus groceries. www.chefsforseniors.com/tulsa-ok Tulsan Alicia Urban started a local franchise of Chefs for Seniors in 2021. A personal chef works with each client to plan custom menus based on individual dietary needs and preferences. The chef then shops for groceries and prepares meals using their tools in the client’s home. Plans can be weekly or less often. Available to anyone in Tulsa County.
MAE’D MEAL PREP
Meals start at $6.50 with no minimum order requirements. www.maedtoorder.com Mae’d selections include small or large meals, salad bowls and snacks. Order on Saturday for Monday delivery or Wednesday for Friday delivery. Delivery service includes parts of Tulsa, Owasso, Claremore and Broken Arrow. Pick meals up yourself seven days a week at Mother Road Market.
LIFE’s SeniorLine staff enjoys connecting with and encouraging LIFE followers while sharing tips on senior living, family caregiving, senior resources and more. This month, Chelsea Edwards will talk about Alzheimer’s disease and sundowning syndrome, a state of confusion that occurs later in the afternoon and into the night. Learn more about sundowning behaviors and strategies that can help.
Silver Linings
Welcome to Silver Linings – LIFE’s weekly video series that reminds us all that attitude is everything – especially when it comes to aging. Check out LIFE’s Facebook page most Wednesdays at www.facebook.com/LIFESeniorServices for the programs below.
“Managing Grief During the Holidays” Wednesday, December 1 Erin Powell, LIFE’s behavioral health specialist, will discuss grief and share tips on how to manage it during the holidays.
“Crafting with Roxanne” Wednesday, December 8 Join Roxanne as she gives step-by-step instructions for making a small holiday gift set – a festive bag that can be filled with hot cocoa mix, a peppermint stick, a small chocolate bar and even a gift card. You’ll need a lunch-size sack (brown or white), holiday-themed card stock paper, hot glue and baker’s twine or embroidery thread, all of which should be available at Dollar Tree.
“Making the Holidays a Little Healthier” Wednesday, December 15 Marleta Giles from the Tulsa County OSU Extension Center will share research-based information and tips on planning ahead for healthier eating throughout the holidays.
“Meals on Wheels” Wednesday, December 22 Calvin Moore, President and CEO of Meals on Wheels of Metro Tulsa, will join us to talk about food insecurity and loneliness among Tulsa-area seniors and how Meals on Wheels of Metro Tulsa is making a difference – not just during the holidays but throughout the year.
MEALS ON WHEELS OF METRO TULSA Donation-based services for eligible persons. www.mealsonwheelstulsa.org
Meals on Wheels provides nutritious meals for older, disabled and homebound adults in Tulsa, Bixby, Broken Arrow, Glenpool, Jenks, Owasso, Sand Springs and Sapulpa. The agency assesses client needs, makes referrals and provides seven locally-prepared, diabetic- and heart-friendly meals per week. Options include regular, chicken/vegetarian and vegetarian. Shelf-stable “Blizzard Boxes," pet care and home safety services are also available. Learn more by calling (918) 627-4103.
www.LIFEseniorservices.org
There will be no Silver Linings programming on Wednesday, December 29. Wishing you a happy and blessed holiday season.
LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine | December 2021
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TABLE FOR TWO
Holiday Cooking WITH ADRIAN ROLLE LIFE PACE INTAKE COORDINATOR
Stuffing Muffins
INGREDIENTS: • 4 tablespoons butter • 1-pound pork sausage, casings removed • 1 medium onion, diced • 2 cloves garlic, minced • 1 ½ cup celery, diced • 1 egg, lightly whisked • 1 teaspoon thyme • 1 teaspoon rosemary • 1 teaspoon ground sage • 8 cups bread cubes (about one loaf) • Kosher salt • Freshly ground black pepper • 2 cups chicken broth • Nonstick cooking spray DIRECTIONS: 1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray. 2. Melt butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon. Add the onion and celery and continue to sauté until the vegetables have softened, 5 to 7 minutes. 3. Stir in garlic, thyme, sage and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat to let cool slightly.
Roast Turkey Breast
INGREDIENTS: • 2 tablespoons olive oil • 2 teaspoons paprika • 2 teaspoons dried oregano • 2 teaspoons dried rosemary minced • 2 teaspoons salt DIRECTIONS: 1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Place turkey breast skin side up on the rack of a roasting pan, or into a lightly greased 9-by-13-inch pan. 2. In a small bowl, stir together olive oil, paprika, oregano, rosemary, salt, thyme, black pepper, onion powder and garlic powder to form a paste. 3. Loosen the skin with your finger and spoon some of the spice mixture underneath the skin. Smooth it out to cover as much of the meat as possible. Rub the remaining spice mixture on top of the turkey breast skin.
Cooking time is dependent on the size of your turkey breast. Turkey needs to be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. This recipe will also work if you can find only skinless turkey breast.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme • 1 teaspoon black pepper • 1 teaspoon onion powder • 1 teaspoon garlic powder • 3–8-pound turkey breast, bone-in or boneless 4. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes per pound, until the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. Measure the temperature in the center of the thickest part of the breast. Actual cooking time will depend on the size of your turkey breast. Boneless turkey breasts will cook faster. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. 5. Remove from the oven and cover loosely with aluminum foil. Let rest for 15 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Then slice and serve.
4. In a large bowl, combine bread cubes, sausage mixture and chicken broth. Check for seasonings and add salt and pepper if necessary. 5. Divide the stuffing mixture between muffin tin cups. Bake until warmed through and golden on top, about 25-30 minutes.
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LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine | December 2021
www.LIFEseniorservices.org
Roasted Asparagus With Parmesean
Pumpkin Pie Cupcakes
Shelf-stable Parmesan cheese (the dehydrated kind with the green lid) will not work with this recipe. You can usually find fresh grated Parmesan in the refrigerated section, but it’s better if you get a small wedge of Parmesan, and grate it just before you put it in the oven. INGREDIENTS: • 1 bunch fresh asparagus • 2 tablespoons olive oil • ½ teaspoon kosher salt • ¼ teaspoon black pepper • ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese • 1 lemon cut in wedges, for serving
INGREDIENTS: • Cooking spray • Cupcake liners (12) • ⅔ cup all-purpose flour • 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice, plus more for garnish • ¼ teaspoon baking powder • ¼ teaspoon baking soda • Pinch kosher salt • 1 15-ounce can pumpkin puree • 3/4 cup evaporated milk • ⅔ cup granulated sugar • 2 large eggs • 1½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract • Whipped cream, for garnishing
DIRECTIONS: 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. 2. If the stalks of the asparagus are thick, peel the bottom ½ of each. Lay them in a single layer on a sheet pan and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast for 15 to 20 minutes, until tender. 3. Sprinkle with the Parmesan and return to the oven for another minute. Serve with lemon wedges. Pricking the potato’s skin several times with a skewer, toothpick or even a fork before cooking helps reduce baking time, and makes steam vents so the potatoes don’t burst in the oven, so be sure to do this. To check for doneness, stick a fork into the thickest part of the potato. It’s done when there is no resistance.
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2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda and salt until combined. 3. In a separate large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, sugar, eggs and vanilla until completely combined.
INGREDIENTS: • 2 sweet potatoes, scrubbed clean • 2 tablespoons butter • Kosher salt • Freshly ground black pepper
Baked Sweet Potatoes
DIRECTIONS: 1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners and grease with cooking spray.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet and mix until fully combined.
DIRECTIONS: 1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. 2. Bake until tender, 45 to 50 minutes. 3. Let cool, then split the tops open with a knife and top with a pat of butter. 4. Season with salt and pepper before serving.
5. Pour mixture into prepared liners until three-fourths of the way full. 6. Bake for 25 minutes, then let cool slightly (cupcakes will sink!) before chilling in the fridge to set. 7. Garnish with whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice before serving.
ADDITIONAL SERVING OPTIONS: Sprinkle on some light brown sugar after splitting for some additional sweetness, or add chopped fresh herbs (rosemary, parsley, or sage) for additional flavor.
LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine | December 2021
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DREAMING OF
BLACKBERRY HONEY BY JA M E S L AU G HL IN
2021 Writers’ Symposium Contest Winners Announced Congratulations to the winners of the 2021 Writers' Symposium Writing Contest sponsored by the Oklahoma Arts Council and LIFE's Senior Centers. Four winning entries will be printed in LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine, starting this month with “Dreaming of Blackberry Honey,” by James Laughlin of Tulsa. Thank you to each writer who submitted entries to the four categories inspired by the wonderful authors who took part in the Writers’ Symposium: Connie Cronley, Barry Friedman, Ginnie Graham, Rabbi Marc Boone Fitzerman and Judy Allen. For everyone who entered: keep writing! The world needs your voice. DRAWING FROM MEMORY James Laughlin HUMOR Joyce Hanewinkel NON-FICTION Mary O’Toole COOKING CULTURE Gayle Campbell 28
O
ur back pasture was overgrown and a mass of blackberry vines and canes had taken over one corner. On cool spring days, blossoms covered the vines and bees swarmed the thorny bramble. The bees were there to sip the nectar and return to their home. And I was there to watch the bees, follow them to their hive and steal their honey. I was 12, and it was an adventure. A perfect spring day in the Oklahoma Ozarks, a soft breeze carried the scent of wildflowers and clover. The grass was tall and green from recent rains. The only noise was the buzz of passing bees and an occasional low moo from the cows across the pasture. I was alone in the field, far from the house and the noise of my large family. Even as a young boy, I enjoyed the solitude. The escape from five brothers and my sister. My mom and dad; rules. I could imagine myself an explorer, a swashbuckling hero on a voyage of discovery. Or a hunter in search of prey. My grandad raised bees and often shared their honey. Biscuits slathered with butter and honey were a special treat. He had told me that the term “beeline” came from the fact that bees flew home to their hives in a straight line. It was just a matter of following them to find the hive. And blackberry honey was a special treat. The sun felt good as I stretched in the grass and watched the bees come and go. The bees flew from flower to flower and would finally lift off and head home. It
LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine | December 2021
was a challenge to stay focused on a single bee, but I was young, my eyes were sharp and I was committed to the task. After a few bees headed west toward the dirt road that cut through our farm, I had a good idea of their direction. The nearest tree line was on the far side of the pasture a few hundred yards away and their hive had to be in the forest beyond the road. I watched a final bee depart and rose to follow. And quickly found that bees travel a lot faster than a young boy walking through tall grass. I lost the bee and stopped, and waited, and another bee buzzed past my head, flying in the same direction. A few running steps. Wait, and then another bee. Even those I couldn’t see, I could hear as they buzzed past; a quiet drone, a fleeting glimpse as they flew by. Across the dirt track, I stopped at the edge of the trees. The forest was a mix of scrub oak and walnut, with an understory of tangled vines and shrubs. Our farm was in a narrow Ozark valley and the trees stretched up a hillside too steep for cultivation. My brothers and I had wandered the forest around the house, but this section of hillside was unexplored territory. I climbed through the three-strand barbwire fence that bounded the pasture and stood quiet, waiting for the next bee. And waited. And then it was back to the pasture. I sat on the edge of the dirt track, plucked a long stem of grass and sucked on it while I waited and listened. A faint hum to my left. I moved that way. And another bee
that I heard and saw, and watched disappear into the trees across the track. Back across the fence and into the woods. The hillside was steep and tangled brush made it hard to walk in a straight line, but I kept moving slowly upward, stopping, watching, listening. About 100 yards in I looked ahead and saw a big, old tree. Sad, most of its limbs gone, but still standing in a small clearing where the undergrowth had not yet taken hold. And down low, about waist high on a 12-yearold boy, an opening, the entrance to a hive. I watched the bees landing and dancing and disappearing into the hollow tree. Others climbed out and buzzed away toward the field. The tree was bigger around than I could reach and I could only imagine the size of the cavern inside. I sat on the ground nearby and watched the bees come and go. And then I thought about the bees and what would happen to them if we chopped down the tree and stole their honey. They looked so busy, crawling around, in and out of the opening in the tree. The honey was their food, the tree their nest. Did I want to take that away? And then the thought of blackberry honey loomed large. Gallons of honey! A feast with biscuits and butter! And I made my way back down the hill and ran home to tell my dad. Hmmm, blackberry honey. And I was 12. www.LIFEseniorservices.org
E Affordable Burial Spaces
MEMORIAL PARK CEMETERY Caring for Tulsa’s Memories Since 1927 To find out more information, please call (918) 627-0220 to speak with one of our Family Service Counselors.
5111 S. Memorial Dr. • (918) 627-0220 memorialparktulsa.com
E Family Estates E Private Mausoleums E Cremation Burial Gardens E Columbarium Niches E Permanent Memorial Bronze Markers E Upright Granite Monuments E Affordable Lawn-Level Granite Markers E Low Monthly Payments for Advance Pre-planning Purchases
Drop-Off a Donation to Toys for Tots by December 13
Senior Living At Its Best!
Welsh & McGough, PLLC Experienced attorneys providing effective and aggressive representation. Guardianship Elder Law Estate Planning Probate
Trust Litigation Family Law Adoption Medicaid Planning
(918) 585-8600
2727 East 21st Street, Ste. 600
www.tulsafirm.com
www.LIFEseniorservices.org
v 5 Unique Floor Plans v Covered Parking v Classic Luxury v Oversized Balconies or Patios v Spacious Walk-in Closets v Washer & Dryer (In Select Units) v Elegant Resident Clubhouse v Pool v Gym Facility Available
Affordable, Independent Senior Living. Come Experience the Fun of Community Living. Visit us at www.leinbach.com
(918) 496-9270 v 4700 E. 54TH ST. v TULSA
Leinbach Company
LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine | December 2021
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MINDBENDER & PUZZLES
WORD SEARCH: SPECIAL DELIVERY Find and circle all of the words.
Address Airmail Amazon Box Bulk Card
Carrier Chute Clerk Code Delivery Envelope
Express Fraud Freight Horse Insurance Junk
Label Letter Location Mailer Mailman Media
Meter Office Overnight Packing Paper Parcel
Pen Pal Pickup Postal Postmaster Press Priority
Rate Recipient Rush Satchel Seal Service
Stamp Stationery Tape Telegram Tracking Truck
Weight Wire Wrap Write Zip Code Zone
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PUZZLE PARTNERS
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. Final Actors _________________________________________________ Gadget Idiot _________________________________________________ Grizzly Carnival _________________________________________________ Good Cost _________________________________________________ Greatest Visitor _________________________________________________ Flying Fear _________________________________________________ Footwear Adhesive _________________________________________________ Fry Literature _________________________________________________ Frog Signal _________________________________________________ Happy Father _________________________________________________ © 2013 Wuzzles & Puzzles
BAMBOOZABLE 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.
LIP
LIP
A 1. thing M 2. thing 3. thing
MIN MIN MIN MIN MIN
MO MO MO
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UTES UTES UTES UTES UTES
LIFE LIVE LIVE
TION TION TION
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Recommended Reads
Bunkering With Books BOOKS IN WINTER BY CONNIE CRONLEY
I have fallen in love with books and their authors by the title of the book alone. "PLANT DREAMING DEEP" "Plant Dreaming Deep" is an example. It was the first of May Sarton’s short memoirs I read. She writes about aging and living in solitude, determined to transform an old New England farmhouse and garden into a home. First, she must “dream the house alive,” and that included painting the kitchen floor yellow. I like the ambiguity of that title, but there is nothing ambiguous about her wisdom and creativity. Winter is an opportune time to dream and to plan. We can put the garden tools away and plan next year’s perfect garden. We can slow down once the holidays are over and plan trips and adventures for the new year. "IN KILTUMPER: A YEAR IN AN IRISH GARDEN" The new book "In Kiltumper: A Year in an Irish Garden," by husband and wife Niall Williams and Christine Breen, has an irresistible premise. Thirty-five years ago, they left New York to move to Christine’s ancestral home in rural Ireland and create a life of writing and gardening. Sounds idyllic, but it hasn’t been a leisurely life. A writer’s income is hit-and-miss, and gardening in the west of Ireland involves arctic winds; rain, rain and more rain, and in December and January less than three hours of sunshine a day. Christine was recovering from cancer and wind 32
turbines were being installed beside their ancient farm, destroying the tranquility they sought. And yet, there is their joy in month-by-month accounts of gardening with details of the plants. Even weak from chemotherapy, Christine worked in the garden every day. “Carrying on living” is one of the primary lessons a garden teaches us, the authors say. "INSIDE U.S.A." Truckloads of books have moved through my personal libraries as I bought them, sold them and gave them away. I’m trying not to accumulate books now, but the one book I am happy to have just purchased is John Gunther’s "Inside U.S.A.," published in 1947. I didn’t think it was going to be possible because it’s been out of print, and a used copy cost almost $900. I first read it thanks to the public library’s interlibrary loan (MOBIUS on the Tulsa City-County Library website). Now, a 75th-anniversary paperback has been published, doubly valuable as a history and sociology report of the 1930s and 1940s. Gunther was famous as a journalist and author of popular travel books "Inside Russia," "Inside Africa" and "Inside Europe" before he wrote the 1,000-plus page "Inside U.S.A." He writes like an observant, witty reporter describing the people and places he visits with both insight and opinion. Describing Oklahoma’s two chief cities he wrote, “Tulsa is more dramatic, more pictorial. Oklahoma City is not particularly jealous of
LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine | December 2021
Tulsa, regarding it somewhat as a Great Dane may regard a noisy poodle.” “No state has more explosive politics than Oklahoma,” he writes. Or more picturesque, he added as he described a barefoot Governor Alfalfa Bill Murray with his socks on his desk and the visitor’s chair nailed to the floor to maintain distance. "VISIONS OF THE TALLGRASS" "Visions of the Tallgrass," with text by historian James P. Ronda and exquisite photographs by Harvey Payne, is a coffee table book that lets us armchair-visit the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve in Osage County. I would have been happy with less text and more of the gorgeous photographs, yet the chapter “The Seasons of Grass” is so extraordinary I relished it as both poetry and philosophy. “Grass is about persistence and change...grass is about enduring, going deep, and going long. Grass is about taking a place, making a place, and then becoming a place,” Ronda wrote. TAKEAWAY What I learned from "In Kiltumper" is that the winter dream of every gardener is that next year all plants and trees and living things will be better. That book tells us that “home is where you dig.” That can mean that home is where we look and really see.
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To submit a Noteworthy event, contact Paula Brown at pbrown@LIFEseniorservices.org or (918) 664-9000, ext. 1207.
Shop for a Good Cause at Holiday Craft Shows Choose between two annual arts and crafts shows scheduled this month to benefit Special Olympics and elementary students – or better yet, go to both! Join “Christmas at The Ranch,” an annual event that benefits the Special Olympics of Oklahoma. The event runs from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. December 3 – 5 at 181 Ranch, 3913 E. 181st St. S. in Bixby. “Christmas at The Ranch” features more than 100 local artists, crafters, makers, food trucks and small businesses. Door prizes, shopping, swag bags, pony rides, entertainment and more are included. Visit Friday for shopping, food and drinks. Saturday and Sunday will have shopping plus a petting zoo, hayrides, aerial performances and other fun. Tickets are $10 and are good for the entire weekend. Children under age 2 are free. If you can only attend on Sunday, tickets are discounted to $5. The 39th Annual Darnaby Arts & Crafts Show will be Saturday, December 4 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Proceeds from the show have been helping meet the needs of Darnaby Elementary School students for almost four decades. Shop ‘til you drop at UMAC, the Union Multipurpose Activity Center, at 6836 S. Mingo Rd. in Tulsa. There will be food trucks and beverages available for purchase. Organizers say their vendors come back year after year to offer unique, quality gifts for the holidays.
Christkindlmarkt Tradition Recreated in Tulsa The German-American Society of Tulsa (GAST) promotes and preserves the German language, culture, and customs through education, social activities and events. Cities and towns throughout Germany feature Christkindlmarkt, a Christmas market, each December. The GAST Center at 2301 E. 15th St. will be transformed into a Christmas market, Friday – Sunday, December 3, 4 and 5. Times are 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. There will also be online shopping with curbside pickup on December 2, 4 – 7 p.m. Check www.gastulsa.org for more details. GAST booths will feature nutcrackers, a wide selection of imported Christmas tree ornaments, as well as Germany's famous Christmas Stollen (fruit and nut bread). There will be sausage, potato pancakes, hot apple cider, hot chocolate and coffee. You will likely see Christkindl and St. Nikolaus visiting the booths while you shop, as well as musical entertainment. Food sales and proceeds from a quilt raffle will go to support the GAST organization.
The Concert Truck: A Mobile Concert Experience What a beautiful way to welcome the holiday season! Join LIFE Senior Services and The Performing Arts Center (PAC) as we present “The Concert Truck” in the parking lots of LIFE's Senior Center at East Side. The truck itself is a 16-foot box truck, fully functioning as a mobile concert hall, complete with lights, a sound system and even a piano. Thanks to the Tulsa PAC for providing the entertainment, chairs and hot chocolate for anyone who wishes to partake. During inclement weather, you may also stay in your car and roll down your windows (crank up the heat!) to listen to the beautiful holiday music. Making music accessible to all, this mobile music venue helps to strengthen communities by redefining the concert experience. Created by pianists Nick Luby and Susan Zhang, the project’s goal is to engage diverse communities and audiences nationwide with thoughtful, timely programming. Thursday, December 16 at 4 p.m. LIFE's Senior Center at East Side 1427 S. Indianapolis Ave. Please RSVP to Melodie at (918) 664-9000, ext. 1130.
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• All bills paid • Inside hallways • Emergency call system • Subsidy available • Quiet location • Small pets welcome
(918) 455-8400 5001 S. Hickory • Broken Arrow, OK (SW of 111th St. & 161st E. Ave.)
Treetops Apartments Independent Senior Living
SHARE YOUR TIME & TALENT To submit a volunteer opportunity, contact Paula Brown at pbrown@LIFEseniorservices.org or (918) 664-9000, ext. 1207.
Treetops does not discriminate against individuals with handicaps.
ACCEPTING NEW MEMBERS
15 Minutes 1x a Week:
R eading Partners Reading Partners needs volunteers to serve students virtually and in-person this year. Becoming a volunteer tutor requires no previous experience. Reading Partners provides an easy-to-follow curriculum and step-by-step lesson plans to teach an effective lesson. All you’ll need is just a little more than one hour per week. Online tutors will need access to a reliable WiFi connection, PC, Mac, or Chromebook computer with a functioning webcam and microphone. To learn more and sign up for the best hour of your week, visit www.readingpartners.org or call (918) 949-1979.
Build Strong Bones Improve Balance Increase Strength Decrease Joint Pain Improve Posture
We’re not a Gym—Learn more “OsteoStrong 101” Lecture
Tue 6pm or Fri Noon Call to Reserve Your Seat
5940 S. Lewis Ave Tulsa, OK 74105
918-528-3828 www.OsteoStrong.me
Yes, you can take control - Call Us!
Resilient Kids
The Resilient Kids after-school and summer program at One Hope Tulsa builds hope and resilience in grade school students. The program involves kids in positive activities that protect them from the impact of adverse childhood experiences. At Resilient Kids, volunteers can help students develop problem-solving skills, relational skills and social connections. Relationships build resilience so the program intentionally fosters relationships with caring and trusted adults. Training and background checks are required. Call Matt Stavros at (918) 954-4147 or visit www.onehopetulsa.com for more information.
Medical Staffing & Home Care Specialists
SERVICES INCLUDE: Nurses - RNs, LPNs • Home Health Aides Companions • RN Supervision Intermittent Visits or Hourly Care Home IV Therapy • Sitter Service Call us. We can help.
I’m Amazing!
SM
24 Hour Service 7 Days a Week
(918) 665-1011 www.My-FirstCall.com
All employees are screened, fidelity bonded, liability insured, and drug tested.
The Arc of Oklahoma
The ARC of Oklahoma promotes and protects the rights of those with developmental and intellectual challenges. The Arc is looking for volunteers to make holiday notes and cards to be sent to the people they support. Holiday Hope Notes will be sent to individuals with disabilities to give them hope. A holiday coloring sheet, a holiday card or a handmade holiday card would mean so much. To find out how you can help, call Steve Pitts at (918) 582-8272 or email him at spitts@thearcok.org.
The Performing Arts Center
Glenwood Apartments 10221 E. 34TH ST. • TULSA, OK
GLENWOODAPTSTULSA@GMAIL.COM
(918) 663-7797 Retirement Living for Seniors Age 62+ & Adults with Disabilities
• • • • • • •
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All Bills Paid 24-hour On-site Staff Laundry Facilities Library & Fitness Area Planned Activities & Bingo Emergency Pull Cords On-site Beauty Salon
The Performing Arts Center (PAC) needs volunteers to support the arts and the local economy by serving as ushers. Ushers must be 18 or older and able to walk up and down stairs without assistance. Applicants must also pass a criminal background check. Go to www.tulsapac.com and click on the “support” tab at the top of the page and choose volunteer. Next, click on the underlined word “here” in the first sentence of the new page that pulls up. Once you create an account, you will be able to apply for the position and see available shifts. For more information, call (918) 596-7111.
For more information on these and other opportunities, call LIFE's Volunteer program at (918) 664-9000.
EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY
LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine | December 2021
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BUSINESS DIRECTORY
Mobility One Transportation Over 30 Years of Experience
MIKE BAXTER, SRES
CHAMBERLAIN REALTY BROKER
LIC# 082355 \ LIC# 185526
Whether you need assistance with buying or selling a home, or property management, let me help you with your real estate needs.
Free Consultation
7804 E. 108th St. S. Suite C #211 • Tulsa, OK 74133 OFFICE: (918) 290-9399 CELL: (918) 933-9995 mike@chamberlainrealtyllc.com
918.437.4488
mobilityONEtransportation.com
14720 E. Admiral Pl., Ste. A Tulsa, OK 74116
SENIOR CARE ONLY BETTER Our caregivers and certified Home Health Aides stand ready to serve your family’s needs with: • Personalized in-home companion, sitter & personal care • Alzheimer’s & dementia care • Transportation assistance & medication reminders
918.574.2273
|
seniorhelpers.com
Licensed Home Care Agency (No. 7926) *all caregivers are bonded & insured
Located At 61st And Sheridan
All rights reserved. Senior Helpers locations are independently owned and operated. ©2019 SH Franchising, LLC.
Introducing Our Most Comfortable Lift recliner! Power Headrest and Lumbar
Try it out in our showroom
Perfect gift for the holidays!
Remote features USB charging port
Reliable, safe, affordable and courteous transportation in Tulsa
(918) 404-0038
Rental Option Available
(918) 600-2112 www.ttownmobility.com
• Ambulatory, wheelchair and stretcher transports
Rates Vary Depending on Location
• A ride to your destination upon hospital discharge
www.healthridetulsa.org
• Medical appointment transportation
After hours phone system utilized
WE HAVE THE WIDEST RAMPS IN THE STATE!
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LIFE CAN HELP! Club LIFE
Highland Park Christian Church 5708 E. 31st St. • Tulsa, OK 74135 Club LIFE welcomes individuals diagnosed with early memory loss caused by Alzheimer’s disease or other memory related disorders. Club LIFE is designed to enhance memory, improve physical strength and balance, stimulate brain function and provide social support.
For more information call LIFE’s SeniorLine (918) 664-9000 or visit www.LIFEseniorservices.org.
www.LIFEseniorservices.org
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PEOPLE & PLACES
Rabbi Marc Boone Fitzerman, LIFE CEO Eileen Bradshaw, Barry Friedman, Ginnie Graham and Connie Cronley are all smiles following a writers' symposium event sponsored by The Oklahoma Arts Council and LIFE's Senior Centers.
Pam celebrates National Toilet Paper Day at The Linden at Stonehaven Square.
Linda and Gretchen participate in High Tea, complete with biscuits, Pims, and cucumber finger sandwiches at The Linden at Stonehaven Square.
Chef Gerald performs a Cooking Demonstration of Cherries Jubilee for residents at The Linden at Stonehaven Square. Opal and Margo are prepared!
Jean participates in a nationwide virtual sip and paint event.
Ratna and Rhoda grab a treat from Bailey’s Mobile Ice Cream during C.N.A. Week.
Members of LIFE’s Senior Centers enjoyed creating works of art at Tulsa Stained Glass in November.
PACE participant Otha Sanders takes a craft class during Adult Day Health with LIFE Senior Services.
Alice Richardson of LIFE PACE attended Cooking Matters, a six-week course provided by the Community Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma.
Send Us Your Pictures Whether it's your traveling group, tennis buddies or a night on the town, we want to see what you've been doing. 36
LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine | December 2021
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CLASSIFIEDS
LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine does not endorse advertiser products or services. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertising.
BIBLE STUDY
Weekly Bible Reading Session Join us in reading, explaining and discussing the Bible on Tuesday nights 7:00 p.m. CST and 8:00 p.m. EST. Questions are always welcome. Perfect for those who cannot get out of the house. Call (918) 872-1400.
BOOKS
Grandma From Brooklyn Stories Enjoy this lovely book of humorous, true and inspiring heartfelt stories. A perfect gift to send to your dear ones at holiday time or anytime. Come along with Grandma from Brooklyn and share some smiles. Available as a paperback or on Kindle. Visit GFB's website: www.grandmafrombrooklyn.com
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.
CEMETERY LOTS
Adjoining Plots in Memorial Park Prime location. Priced to sell. Section 12, Lot 185, Spaces 3 & 4 for $3,000. Call Pris (918) 446-0318. Arlington Memorial Cemetery 6 cemetery spaces all in the same section at Arlington Memorial Cemetery, 3400 N. Midwest Blvd, Spencer, OK. $3,000 per space plus 1/2 of the $750 deed transfer. If you purchase all 6, we will pay deed transfer. Call or text (405) 640-8044. Six Cemetery Lots for Sale Cemetery lots for sale in Memorial Park Cemetery at 51st and Memorial in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Location in Section 15, Lot 192, Spaces 1-6. Cemetery priced $2,145 per lot. Sale price is $1,700 per lot. Will sell all six together for $9,000! Call (918) 809-1787. If no answer, leave a phone number and message. Spaces at Memorial Park Multiple spaces for sale. Section 34, Lot 416. No burials there and no markers. Current value is $2,200/ea. Will sell for $1,900/ea. If
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interested, contact Cindy Taylor at Oxley.Plots@gmail.com or (281) 990-6223.
CLEANING
Window Cleaning & Housecleaning Window Cleaning. House Cleaning. Home, Apartment – move in or move out. Deep Cleaning. Organization. Light Fixtures and Mirrors. Experienced and Reasonable. Call (918) 404-2575.
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. 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 top-rated carriers like: Aetna, Blue Cross, Humana, GlobalHealth, UnitedHealthCare, Mutual of Omaha and others. For information, call Bob Archer today (918) 814-5550. True Freedom Home Care Plans These plans cover assistance with meal prep, bathing, laundry, grocery shopping, medication reminders and more in the privacy and comfort of your own home.
No medical underwriting, no claim forms, no deductible, and no age limits. Platinum, Gold, Silver and Bronze plans available nationwide. Call or text Cindy Johnson at (918) 619-5919 to request a mailed copy of the plan brochureor appointment.
FOR SALE
Stamp Collection Unique US stamp collection. 1945-1982. 20 plus binders of blocks of new stamps. First day covers commemorative issues. Some binders approximately $50 in stamp value alone. Outstanding when reviewed by a Tulsa stamp collector president. If interested, please call (918) 527-3528. 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 $4200. Make an offer. No individual sales. (918) 663-3528. WHEEL CHAIR LIFT AND SCOOTER CARRIER I inherited a beautiful car with an E-Z Carrier Wheel Chair Lift attached to it. This was gently used but right now is gathering dust in the garage. I believe they sell for around $1,700 plus tax but I am asking $500 cash. Call (918) 245-4184.
GARDENING/LAWN CARE AAA Lawns & More Total lawn care. Lawn Mowing. Leaf removal. Gutter clean-up. Specialist in fence/property line lawn clean-up. Stump grinding and small tree work. 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. Green Hibiscus Lawn & Garden Services Scheduled garden maintenance (weeding, planting, mulching). Garden bed design and installation. Hedge & shrub trimming. Tree pruning & removal. Leaf clean up. Hauling green debris. Call Charles (918) 636-0298. Kimble Davis Tree Company Family-owned and operated. Specializing in all aspects of tree care: restoration, pruning/ thinning, removal, stump grinding, hedge trimming, firewood available. Serving
Tulsa for 25 years. References. Member BBB. Insured. ISA certified arborist. Check us out at www.kdtreeco.com. Call Kimble at (918) 853-5383. Mower Repair / Maintenance All brands – Riders, ZTR's, Walk-behinds, UTV’s / ATV’s. Top Quality work, ASE certified Mechanic. Pick-up and Delivery available. Tulsa and surrounding counties. Maintenance specials include pick-up and delivery 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Call Scott (918) 519-3869. New Season Lawn & Tree LLC Now accepting new customers. Fall clean-up available. Mowing, trimming, leaf and debris removal, fence line trim/cleanup, leaf mulching, flower beds. Tree pruning/thinning and removal. Shrub and hedge trimming/ shaping of all sizes. Pressure Washing driveway, decks, siding. ISA Certified Arborist. Fully insured with verified references. Best rates, senior discounts. Free Estimates. Call Todd (918) 639-2262. www.newseasonlawnandtree.com. New Season Tree Masters Specializing in tree removal and stump grinding. Tree trimming service available. Certified arborist on staff. Serving all of metro Tulsa with over 20 years’ experience. Fully insured. BBB accredited. Free estimates. Contact us at info@newseasontreemasters.com or call Todd at (918) 934-4868. www.newseasontreemasters.com.
HOME REPAIR/REMODELING A Handy Helping Hand Professional home maintenance, painting, and improvements. Whether you’re making overdue repairs, sprucing up your home and garden, or optimizing your home’s “sale-ability” potential, call Joe Surowiak with A Handy Helping Hand. Professional results. Competitive rates. (918) 520-0333. Allen’s Handyman Services of Tulsa “Your Home Improvement and Repair Specialist.” 21st year 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.
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CLASSIFIEDS Big C’s Plumbing Services Your one stop Plumbing Shop! Call us and I guarantee you will never have to call another plumbing company. Licensed, bonded and insured for your protection....Call (918) 855-9216, tell us you saw us in the Vintage Newsmagazine receive an automatic 10% discount....call us now. Bumgartner Plumbing Licensed, with over 30 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. Burton Painting Specializing in all aspects of exterior and interior home painting. Staining, sealing, and painting faux finishes. Decks, fences, cabinets and floors. Free estimates. 30+ years of experience. Reliable, courteous, professional service. Fully insured. (918) 378-2858. Dave’s Heat and Air, Inc. Licensed, insured, and bonded. Honest and reliable service for over 30 years. Competitive rates. Specializing in heating and air conditioning service and repair. All makes and models. Residential and light commercial. Tulsa metro area. Family-owned and operated. (918) 437-8101. Doc J’s Heat and Air LLC Avoid costly repairs and breakdowns and save on service, repairs and replacements with our yearly maintenance plan. Mention this ad and get $25 off our Fall Furnace tune-up service. Financing, free estimates and senior discounts. Call Doc J today (918) 921-4240, docj@docjsheatandair.com. Handyman & Construction Services 30 Years Experience! All Handicap Accessories – grab bars, handicap access abilities; Framing, Drywall, Tape & Bed; Texture & Paint, Plumbing, Electrical, Tile, Laminate & Wood Floors. Free Estimates, Competitive Rates, Professional Service. Call Craig (918) 892-4168. 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.
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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 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 Need Legal Help? Call Me First. Ramona Jones, Attorney at Law. Why travel when we can do a video conference? Wills, trusts, deeds, advance directives, powers of attorney, probate, divorces, civil, DUI, criminal, guardianships, adoptions and more. Also paperwork for limited scope representation. Credit cards accepted. (918) 585-2255. 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.
OIL AND GAS
Mineral, Oil/Gas Interests Want to purchase minerals and oil/gas interests. Send details to P.O. Box 13557, Denver, CO, 80201
PERSONAL ASSISTANCE Bobbi and Bob’s Personal & Business Assistance Personally assist in driving to beauty shop, medical appointments, and other destinations; provide accounting, secretarial, and specialized administrative assistance; help with business-related matters; serve as liaison with physicians/ healthcare personnel; resolve Medicare and medical insurance issues. Bobbi Warshaw, MPH and Bob Warshaw, MBA (918) 852-5302, bobbi.warshaw@att.net
LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine | December 2021
Compassionate Senior Services We offer a wide variety of services for seniors. Whether it's: Rides, Errands, Meal Preparation, Companionship, or Sitting With A Loved One, we're here to help. We offer competitive rates and Smiles are always free. 24 hour Care Available. Contact Christie at(918) 934-7986. Financial Organizer/Liaison Do you or a loved one need help keeping up with mail, balancing a checkbook, paying bills, making phone calls, organizing or preparing for tax time? I can help! I will work with you or act as a liaison between family members. Call or email me to discuss options. Essential Strategy Consulting, LLC. Gwen Stevens (918) 557-5259, esc9315@gmail.com Home Health Services Tulsa’s Affordable Home Care offer’s compassionate, quality home care services to individuals. We provide the following services: 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!!! Kind Hands Home Care, LLC We are a team of dedicated health care professionals who work hard in order to keep our clients in their homes safely and well taken care of. 12 to 24 hour shifts available. For information please call or message Delia at (405) 714-8016. 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.
PERSONAL SAFETY HALO Medical Alarms Worried about falling? HALO provides medical alert services for those at home or on the go who may need help in an emergency. HALO allows you to get help at the push of a button which is worn as a necklace or wristband. We offer a variety of choices to best fit your needs. Check out the HALO products at our retail store – T-Town Mobility at 61st & Sheridan (918) 392-0566 or (877) 747-HALO (4256). 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 35 years’ experience, I can help with all of your hairstyling needs. I will come to your home, the hospital, rehab or you can come to my shop. In-shop special: haircut $7 for first time customers only and perms for $45. 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) 8342686. Following CDC Guidelines – masks worn, temperature taken, 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 $12: Haircut or Style or Manicure. $45 for cut and perm. Pedicures are $20. Very Experienced Hairdressers! Come see us in Midtown at Highland Plaza, 5661 East 41st Street (corner of 41st and Hudson). (918) 742-3440.
PET CARE
Home Veterinary Care Experience Tulsa’s most convenient veterinary service in the comfort of your own home. Our goal is to develop a personal relationship with each of our clients and patients. Contact us today to schedule your house call appointment. Call (918) 892-9382 or email DrFielstra@gmail.com or visit us at www.homevetcaretulsa.com. SENIOR MOVE MANAGEMENT
SHOULD I MOVE, OR SHOULD I STAY? Can't decide whether to Age in Place, or move? Feeling Overwhelmed? We can help. We are your One Source for Downsizing, Moving, Aging in Place, Estate Sales, Selling Home, Selecting a Community, Etc. www.MatureTransitionsOfTulsa.com.
(918) 309-6120.
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 a.m., have a short meeting and then play cards. Join us for great fun and fellowship. Questions, call Beverly at (918) 272-1049.
www.LIFEseniorservices.org
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.
Vintage Friends GIFT A SUBSCRIPTION TO
LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine
VACATION SPOT
the premier publication for Oklahomans 50+
Meadow Lake Ranch in Sand Springs! Meadow Lake Ranch is more than a place for family fun, it also provides unique venues for holiday parties, conferences, baby showers, & more! The ranch offers “The Lodge” & “The Event Center” including multiple outdoor areas for guests to enjoy. Visit www.meadowlakeranch.com or give Susie a call (918) 494-6000.
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.
SUBSCRIBE NOW (918) 664-9000 www.LIFEseniorservices.org
DECEMBER ANSWERS
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Last Cast Tool Fool Bear Fair Nice Price Best Guest
6. Flight Fright 7. Shoe Glue 8. Cook Book 9. Toad Code 10. Glad Dad
Tulips Back in five minutes One life to live First thing in the morning Go through the motions The coast is clear
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Bill and Terri Hirsch Vicki Hodges Elaine Horkey Brenda James Patricia Kulina Evelyn R. Land Mary H. Lhevine Laurel Madland David S. Morse Paul and Sandra Mullins Robert and Carolyn Powers Billie R. Shoemake Carol L. Strout Gloria and Michael Whaling Megan and Cathy Wilkie
IN MEMORY OF Kay Davis In Memory of David Atkinson Theresa M. Finck and Mary Ann Finck In Memory of Theresa Ann Finck Norma Hollaway In Memory of Lois Dorrell Donna J. Palmer In Memory of R. Geneva Thompson Martha J. Short In Memory of Wayland Short Maria Veliz Barnes In Memory of James E. Barnes Betty F. Willhite In Memory of Jerry Lyle Willhite
IN HONOR OF Sylvia Rosenthal In Honor of Polly & Rue Galyean
SUPPORT
LIFE
LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine is printed and mailed at no charge. A minimum donation of $25 is appreciated to help offset production costs.
3 WAYS TO MAKE A DONATION: 1. BY MAILING CASH OR A CHECK Complete and mail in the form below to the listed address.
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www.LIFEseniorservices.org
Boethos Foundation, Inc. Bright Funds Campbell-Lepley/Hunt Foundation Church of St. Mary The Common Bond Foundation Hardesty Family Foundation Health Care Service Corporation- BCBS Maxine and Jack Zarrow Family Foundation Spirit AeroSystems Tulsa - Good Neighbor Fund Woodland Tax Service, PLLC Anonymous Bill and Jewel Alsip Sue Ames D. C. and Janice Anderson Susan Bailey F. P. Batterton Jack and Carolyn Blair Stephen and Eileen Bradshaw Carole J. Brown Judy Cairl Oleta Calvert Jean Copley Charles Danley Dorris V. Doyle Margaret Dugan Julie Eggers Michelle Evans Suzanne Gates Rita L. Gilliam Manuella R. Glore June Gregson Anita Greiner Candy Gutierrez
HINK PINKS
BAMBOOZABLES
CLASSIFIEDS
We sincerely apologize for any error or omission. Due to publication deadlines, acknowledgment of gifts may take up to 60 days in the Vintage Newsmagazine. If there is an error, please call Rickye Wilson at (918) 664-9000, ext. 1213.
For puzzles, see pages 30-31
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TO ADVERTISE, CONTACT: Bernie Dornblaser (918) 664-9000, ext. 1206 or bdornblaser@LIFEseniorservices.org
In appreciation of contributions to LIFE Senior Services received in October 2021.
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2. ONLINE
Visit www.LIFEseniorservices.org, click the support LIFE tab and select the donate to LIFE option.
3. BY PHONE
Call (918) 664-9000, ext. 1213.
Name _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ City/State/ZIP ________________________________________________________________________________________________ Email ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ If you are mailing cash or a check please cut out this form and mail it to: LIFE Senior Services | 5330 E. 31st St., Ste. 800 | Tulsa, OK 74135
LIFE’s Vintage Newsmagazine | December 2021
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Now's the time to choose CommunityCare. Medicare Annual Election Deadline is December 7.
CommunityCare has Oklahoma’s highest customer satisfaction rating. Why? Because we are committed to caring for our members and serving the community like no other health plan. Plus, no matter which Senior Health Plan option you choose, you’ll get the additional benefits you want, like dental, vision and more - and in-network access to two of the state’s premier health systems: Ascension St. John and Saint Francis Health System. Joining Senior Health Plan is easy. Just call our team at 918-594-5752 and we can enroll you over the phone.
Hurry! The Medicare Annual Election Period ends December 7. 918-594-5272 Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. (TTY 1-800-722-0353)
ccokadvantage.com
CommunityCare Choice, Inc. is an HMO plan with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in CommunityCare Choice, Inc. depends on contract renewal. The Senior Health Plan service area includes Tulsa, Creek, Craig, Hughes, Mayes, Muskogee, McIntosh, Nowata, Okmulgee, Osage, Pawnee, Pittsburg, Rogers, Wagoner, and Washington Counties. Please call Customer Service for assistance at 918-594-5323 (TTY: 1-800-722-0353), Monday – Sunday and some holidays from 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. October 1 – March 31 and Monday – Friday from 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. April 1 – September 30.