Caregiver Tool Belt/
By Donna Mancini, Caregiver
Attention, Caregivers Support is Available
Caregiver counseling and support groups are designed for those supporting a loved one. Surprisingly, these services often go unused, but taking advantage of them is critical for the caregiver’s mental and physical health and also benefits care recipients.
FREE SUPPORT
LIFE Senior Services’ Caregiver Support Program offers four groups — one specifically for men — and individual caregiver counseling services at no cost. Counseling helps caregivers process emotions, address challenges, discover coping strategies, learn effective communication skills and stress reduction techniques, develop healthy boundaries, and discuss self-care strategies.
Support groups bring a sense of community and belonging where caregivers feel understood and validated. New friendships are formed that often extend outside the group setting. The groups offer practical tips, resources, and methods needed to manage daily tasks and overcome challenges. Sharing knowledge and experiences fosters personal growth and resilience, empowering
caregivers to make informed decisions. They gain confidence and feel more in control of their supportive role.
LIFE’s programs provide a safe space for caregivers to ask questions, cry, laugh, seek guidance, and find solutions. Caregivers can learn to appreciate and value themselves, discovering self-care practices that benefit their health and help prevent caregiver burnout. Caregivers have an opportunity to be seen for who they are; not just for what they do.
STEP OUTSIDE THE ROLE
Caregivers experience situations and challenges that can feel overwhelming. They may get so engrossed in their role that they don’t take the time or think that they can make the time to care for themselves.
Research shows caregivers who tend to neglect their health suffer from increased stress and a higher mortality risk. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that caregivers experiencing high stress
Oh, What a Journey
Join Donna Mancini for a free workshop for loved ones, caregivers, and family members on navigating the challenges of a dementia or Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Each family receives a complimentary copy of LIFE’s Caregiver Tool Belt resource booklet.
Tuesday, September 16 • 10 – 11 a.m. Legacy Plaza East Conference Center 5330 E. 31st St. in Tulsa Register at (918) 664-6000, ext. 1181
levels face a 63% higher risk of death compared to non-caregivers. A Cleveland Clinic study indicates 60% of caregivers experience symptoms of burnout, a “state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion that happens while you’re caring for someone else.”
Individual and group support can help caregivers nurture their own well-being. Caregivers have a right to care for themselves while supporting someone else. Their health depends on it.
LIFE’S CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUPS
• Caregiver Support Group at North/Pine Meets the second Thursday of the month from 6 – 7 p.m. at 902 E. Pine St. Offered in partnership with Alzheimer’s Diversity Outreach. Call (918) 664-9000, ext. 1323 for more information.
• Caregiver Support Group at Roma Berry Center for Seniors
Meets the third Tuesday of the month from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. at 4821 S. 72nd E. Ave. To learn more, call (918) 664-9000, ext. 1472.
• Men’s Caregiver Support Group
Meets the third Wednesday of the month at 2 p.m. at LIFE’s Central location, 5950 E. 31st St. For more information, call Donna Mancini at (918) 664-9000, ext. 1137.
By Kathy Jones, Medicare &
Get Ready for Medicare’s Annual Open Enrollment Period
From October 15th through December 7th, Medicare has an Annual Open Enrollment Period to review your 2026 coverage.
During this period, Medicare beneficiaries can review and re-evaluate their coverage. If you have Medicare Advantage or Original Medicare with a Medicare Part D Plan, you can compare the plan against all others on the market. After re-evaluating your coverage, if you find a plan that better fits your needs, you can then switch to, drop, or add a Medicare Advantage or Part D Plan.
If you use the Annual Open Enrollment period to choose a new Medicare Advantage Plan, Part D Plan, or go back to Original Medicare, the new coverage will begin on January 1.
If you are satisfied with your current coverage and your plan will still be available in 2026, you don’t need to do anything. Your current coverage will continue for the next year. Although it’s easier to keep your current Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plan or Medicare Advantage Plan, it’s very important to compare the plans available for 2026 to determine if your plan meets your individual and financial needs.
Each year, insurance companies can make changes to Medicare plans that may impact how much you pay out-of-pocket — the monthly premiums, deductibles, drug costs, and provider or pharmacy “networks.” A network is a list of doctors, hospitals, or pharmacies that negotiate prices with insurance companies. The insurance company can
also make changes to your plan’s “formulary,” or list of covered drugs.
Due to yearly changes, it’s a good idea to reevaluate your current Medicare plan each year to make sure it still meets your needs. The 2026 plans will be available for viewing on Medicare’s website, medicare.gov, by October 1. The enrollment option begins on October 15.
• Medicare Advantage Members
If you are in a Medicare Advantage Plan (an HMO, PPO, or HMO-POS), review the Evidence of Coverage (EOC) and Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) your plan sends you each year. The EOC provides details about what the plan covers, how much you pay, and more. The ANOC includes any changes in coverage, costs, or service areas that will be effective January 1st.
To compare the Medicare Advantage Plans available in 2026, you can go to the Medicare Plan Finder link on Medicare’s website, contact the individual plan to discuss what they offer, or contact the Medicare Assistance Program at LIFE for a plan comparison at (918) 938-7683.
• Traditional Medicare Coverage
If you have Traditional Medicare with a separate prescription drug plan, you can review your options using the Medicare Plan Finder on Medicare’s website or you can contact LIFE’s Medicare Assistance Program for a plan comparison.
LIFE’s Medicare Assistance Program
To schedule an appointment to compare, select, or enroll in a Medicare Drug Plan, compare Medicare Advantage Plans or apply for Medicare Part D Extra Help, call LIFE’s Medicare Assistance Program at (918) 938-7683, or toll-free at (866) 664-9009, ext. 1189. Make your reservation starting September 15. LIFE has four locations where trained, impartial volunteers meet with beneficiaries face-to-face. Telephone appointments are also available.
2026 Medicare Handbook
The 2026 “Medicare & You” handbook will arrive at each Medicare household toward the end of September. This handbook contains important information to help you make the most of your Medicare coverage, including a summary of Medicare benefits, rights and protections, and answers to the most frequently asked questions about Medicare. Information in the handbook is current from January 1 through December 31, 2026, so it’s important to keep your copy for future reference.
The handbook will be delivered to most people by mail. However, some people will instead receive an electronic version, which they signed up for on the Medicare website. If you are interested in receiving future issues electronically, you can sign up at medicare.gov.
LIFE’s Medicare Assistance Program offers a Medicare Part D Plan comparison and enrollment assistance clinics throughout the annual enrollment period. LIFE also offers a plan comparison for those beneficiaries that have a Medicare Advantage Plan. During last year’s open enrollment period, over 53% of the people assisted either enrolled in a Part D drug plan for the first time or switched their Part D plans for 2025. In doing so, most of the people who came to LIFE’s clinic saved money on their 2025 drug costs, with an average savings of $2,696 per person.
Sources: www.ncoa.org; www.medicare.gov
Fabulous Flavors/
Eating Healthy on Vacation
Enjoy Vacation Food Without the Guilt
Finding healthy food choices while on vacation can be challenging, but it’s possible with a little forethought. Instead of worrying about derailing your routine, view your trip as an opportunity to discover new cuisines.
Ask about local eateries and venture off the beaten path to explore the town. This advice also applies to cruises, which offer many opportunities for overindulging. Avoid treats you can get at home. Share family-style meals to sample a little taste of everything.
Many destinations have markets where you can pick fresh produce for snacks or quick meals. Research grocery stores, farmers markets, and unique restaurants in advance. If you have a kitchenette, plan to cook a few meals in. Don’t slack on breakfast. Filling up on pastries leads to sugar crashes and cravings. Balance your
breakfast with protein by looking for foods like eggs, lox, and Greek yogurt at the buffet. Then you’ll be fueled for the adventures ahead. Pack non-perishable snacks like nuts, trail mix, jerky, and protein bars to curb hunger between meals. Hydration is key, especially in warmer climates. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it frequently. Avoid empty calories by limiting sugary drinks and alcohol. Don’t forget caffeine and alcohol can lead to dehydration, cravings, and fatigue. Sometimes we mistake thirst for hunger — drink water first to see if that satisfies you.
Remember, balance is key. It’s perfectly fine — even expected — to indulge while on vacation. The goal isn’t perfection but making conscious choices that keep you feeling energized. Enjoy the experience, savor the flavors, and return home refreshed, not regretful.
Cleaning & Preparing ...
LIMES
Choose limes that feel heavy for their size and have smooth, shiny skin. Limes are free of fat, sodium, and sugar, and low in calories. They’re high in vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports the immune system, helps the body absorb iron from plant foods, and promotes healthy skin, bones, and teeth. Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
LEEKS
Q: What foods support strong bones and prevent osteoporosis?
A: Calcium is the vital mineral for the formation and maintenance of healthy bones. Top sources of calcium include dairy products such as milk, yogurt, and cheese, along with dark leafy greens such as collards, kale, Swiss chard, and broccoli. Breakfast cereals and fruit juices are often fortified with calcium.
LIFE’s team of expert dietitians is here to help. Get the answers you need to fuel your healthiest self!
Choose leeks with firm, crisp stalks and as much white and light green area as possible. Avoid leeks with yellowing or withered tops. Leeks are fat-free and very low in sodium. They are high in vitamin K and a good source of vitamins B6 and C, as well as copper, iron, and manganese. Refrigerate unwashed leeks in a plastic bag for up to two weeks. Rinse before using.
Cilantro Lime Slaw
Courtesy of Taste of Home
INGREDIENTS
• 1 ½ teaspoons grated lime zest
• ¼ cup lime juice
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 3 tablespoons canola oil
• 1 small head red cabbage (about ¾ pound), shredded
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Whisk together the first seven ingredients until smooth. Gradually whisk in oil until blended.
2. Combine cabbage, carrots, and green onions; toss with lime mixture to lightly coat.
3. Refrigerate covered for two hours. Sprinkle with cilantro before serving.
AMERICAN GREAT
Checklist
BY JULIE WENGER WATSON
WHY ALL 50?
While the logistics of getting to all 50 states might seem daunting at first, there are plenty of reasons to consider the challenge. This country includes an incredible variety of ecosystems and natural landscapes. Visiting every state allows you to witness the beauty and variety of our nation. Travel also broadens perspective and fosters personal growth.
Compared to trips abroad, touring the U.S. can be affordable and relatively easy — no language barriers, foreign currency, or international flights — while still providing adventure, learning opportunities, and unique experiences. Visiting every state also puts you in an elite category of travelers. According to Alicia Rovey, founder of the All Fifty Club, going to all 50 states is a lifetime achievement that only around 1% of Americans accomplish.
“By visiting every state in the USA, you experience the diversity and unity of America firsthand,” she said. “Each state has something to offer: historical landmarks, natural wonders, big cities, and small towns.”
FIND YOUR REASON
Travel for the sake of travel is fun, but hitting every state might take more motivation. Rovey’s goal to cover the U.S. started when she was just eight, sketching out a map and coloring in the states where she went with her family. Rovey had the goal from childhood. She says the desire for many people to see all 50 usually begins with the realization they’ve already visited quite a few.
“Most people find our club right around 35 states,” she said. “Before that, they may just be traveling, then count the states and realize, ‘Oh
my goodness, I only have 15 more,’ and then the aim becomes more intentional.”
Tulsan Kathryn White has organized her 50-state ambitions around marathons. She’s stayed overnight in 43 states and completed marathons (a small fraction of her current lifetime total of 225) in 35 so far.
“I’m goal-oriented both personally and professionally,” she said. “The sense of accomplishment is a source of great joy for me.”
White’s son William shares her zest for travel and has accompanied his mom for years. Now 18, he’s racked up his own impressive tally.
“When he was younger, we liked to create adventures like exploring a ghost town in Nevada and scaling rock surfaces in national parks in Arizona,” said White. “As he grew older, it turned into exploring major cities and the shops and restaurants.”
Oklahoma City physician Brian Coleman shares a similar love of travel and running. His 50-state marathon goal began in 2005 when he joined the National Guard and discovered his passion for running while training for a fitness test. He recently completed his 83rd marathon, finishing his 50-state trek with Alaska last August and Hawaii in December.
“It probably started as more of a dare to myself just to see if I could do it,” he said. “Around 15
Ready to Hit the Road?
to 20, I thought, ‘I can do this,’ and the challenge became more real. I really enjoy running, and traveling to marathons seemed like a fun idea.”
In addition to learning that he’s “a pretty stubborn and a not-very fast runner,” Coleman’s travels showed him that “our country has amazing people and pockets of fun things all over the place.”
For Chicago English teacher Erin Micklo, 50-state travel is a family affair. Two years ago, Micklo celebrated her father’s 80th birthday with a family trip to North and South Carolina, the last two states on her dad’s list. Micklo recently marked Oklahoma off her list with a stop in Tulsa, where the family visited Greenwood Rising and the Gathering Place.
“If you want to do something like this, it’s never too late,” said Micklo. “My dad got his 50 at 80. My kids will probably have theirs before they’re 30, but there’s never an end date. As long as you’re alive and able to move, you should go give it a try.”
THE TAKEAWAY
Tackling all 50 states is a quest that can change the way you look at yourself and your country, a reminder that even in divisive times, we are more alike than we are different, and that this nation is a vast, beautiful, and often-surprising place.
Outings in our 50 states can be a lifelong adventure and a never-ending education.
Explore the digital edition of this issue at LIFEseniorservices.org for a mix of classic and tech-savvy travel resources. Just look under the Resources tab.
Who doesn’t love a good road trip? Great snacks, fun tunes, and the chance to really see the country. Most Americans have been to at least a handful of states during their travels, but you might be surprised to learn that some people have set foot in all 50. There’s a lot to see in these United States, and there’s no time like the present to begin.
Travelers who have visited all 50 states or are working to complete their Great American Checklist share highlights from their experiences.
Brian Coleman Marathons in all 50 States
• Rhode Island
Fantastic boat cruise of Newport Harbor
• Washington, D.C.
Amazing city and monuments
• Idaho Wonderful music and wildlife, plus very friendly people
• North Dakota
Great breweries
• Alaska An amazing boat tour of a glacier and terrific residents
• Vermont
Enjoyed visiting colleges with my kids
• Mississippi
Stennis Space Center marathon with jambalaya and beer at the finish line
• Kentucky Beautiful countryside around Louisville
Kathryn
White Marathons in 35 states (so far)
• New York, New York
Cultural and food capital of the world
• Maine
Best lobster ever
• Texas and Florida
Only two marathons I have run in sleet and snow.
• Montana
Pre-race warnings about bears and a new love affair with huckleberry pie
• Ohio
“Not your Texas chili,” served on spaghetti noodles
• Pennsylvania
The only REAL cheesesteak, “Whiz Wit or Witout”
• Arizona - Phoenix
“Dry-your-eyeballs-out hot,” but good oranges
• Massachusetts
Amazing history and clam chowder
• Arizona Diverse landscape, from desert to the Grand Canyon to the mountains
• Arkansas Natural beauty and the history of the hot springs
Erin Micklo
Three Generations of 50-State Travelers
• Alaska The smell, the mountains, the bears, the fishing
• New Mexico
A progressive state, beautiful architecture, and a hot air balloon ride
Alicia Rovey
Founder of the All Fifty Club
ALICIA ROVEY
BRIAN COLEMAN
TRIPS EVERY BUDGET
BY KAREN SAZBO
Whether you dream of a luxury safari, a weekend cabin getaway, or simply want to explore somewhere new without blowing your budget, there’s a vacation out there for you. From road trips and rail journeys to safaris and river cruises, today’s travel options are as varied as the people taking them. This guide is packed with real-life tips, personal stories, and inspiration to help you plan your next great escape — no matter your budget.
GO
NOW. GO WHILE YOU CAN.
Whether your budget says tent, train, or 10-course tasting menu, there’s a perfect trip out there for you.
BUDGET-FRIENDLY TRAVEL
You don’t need deep pockets to get away. With a little planning and a sense of adventure, you can create meaningful, memorable trips that don’t drain your savings.
ROAD TRIPS & SCENIC DRIVES
Start simple: pack the car and hit the road. America is filled with scenic byways, quirky small towns, and national parks that offer low-cost — or even free — adventures. Stretch your budget with state park cabins, momand-pop motels, or cozy Airbnbs that add character to your trip.
For example, take a Route 66 road trip through Oklahoma, with nostalgic stops like the Blue Whale of Catoosa and Arcadia’s Round Barn. Sleep in a vintage motel for charm, savings, and a little time travel.
Or head east to Arkansas for a culture-meets-nature escape. Stroll the world-class Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville — admission is free — and enjoy its woodland trails and architectural beauty. Eureka Springs offers winding streets, Victorian charm, and budgetfriendly bed and breakfasts.
CAMPING & GLAMPING
Tent camping isn’t for everyone, but today’s options make it easy to enjoy the great outdoors in comfort. Yurts, glamping tents, or cozy cabins all offer more than a sleeping bag on the ground. Oklahoma state parks and others across the country have embraced the trend with affordable, accessible choices.
In Lawton, the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge offers free entry, scenic hikes, and the chance to spot bison up close. Come fall, the golden prairie grasses and glowing foliage make it even more stunning. Nearby campgrounds and cabins let you stay the night without blowing your budget.
Turner Falls in Davis, home to the state’s tallest waterfall, is perfect for hiking, swimming, and setting up camp right by the falls. Autumn brings cooler temps and vibrant color. It’s like a trip to New England without ever leaving Oklahoma.
Sunset at Mount Scott, located in Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge.
Photo Courtesy of Brennen Nicole Photography
MID-PRICED ADVENTURES
Looking for a little more comfort, a few more amenities, and a balance of adventure and relaxation? Welcome to the sweet spot of mid-priced travel. For those looking to elevate the experience without blowing the budget, there are more options than ever.
WORLD CLASS, WALLET
FRIENDLY
“Places like Croatia, Portugal, and Ireland offer incredible experiences without the usual high European prices,” said Carly Curley, a Tulsa travel counsultant who co-owns Simpatico Travel with her twin sister, Cayanne Benulis. “Gorgeous scenery, fantastic food and wine, rich culture, and beautiful places to stay — all at a more approachable cost.”
Other budget-friendly gems include Slovenia, Spain, and Morocco, where travelers can experience vibrant cities, scenic landscapes, and warm hospitality without breaking the bank.
For those willing to go farther, Southeast Asia offers unbeatable value. Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia are popular for their immersive experiences, incredible cuisine, and luxe accommodations at modest prices. And in Mexico, towns like Mérida and Puerto Vallarta pair charm with affordability, especially in the offseason.
“It’s really about knowing where to look,” Curley added. “That’s where we love helping clients uncover hidden gems.”
RAIL TRAVEL
Amtrak routes like the California Zephyr and Southwest Chief let you ride in comfort through mountain passes or desert stretches. It’s a slower pace, but that’s part of the magic, and the views are unbeatable.
The Zephyr’s full route runs from Chicago to Emeryville, California. You can break that 51-hour trip into midlength segments. Denver to Salt Lake City is about a 15-hour trip while Denver to Reno takes around 23 hours. You’ll see some of Amtrak’s most stunning views through the Rockies and Sierra Nevadas.
SMALL GROUP TOURS
Curley says small group tours are growing in popularity. “You get the benefit of a guide without the crowds,” she explained. Regional companies often bundle lodging, activities, and transportation for one price. Affordable hotspots include
Costa Rica, Peru, Morocco, and Vietnam — destinations where your dollar goes further and adventure is always on the itinerary.
ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORTS
Not just for honeymooners, all-inclusives in Mexico and the Caribbean can be surprisingly affordable. Mid-tier resorts deliver great service, beautiful beaches, and the joy of not pulling out your wallet every five minutes. Some resorts are family-friendly, and others cater to adults only.
The Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and Costa Rica are rising in popularity while Mexico is considered the capital of all-inclusive travel, especially in popular beach destinations.
CITY PASSES
Many cities offer bundled tourism passes that cover multiple attractions. If you plan to hit several hot spots, it’s often a great deal — and a great way to plan your days. Sites like Go City and CityPASS offer admission bundles with perks like skip-the-line access, while platforms like Viator help you book tours and experiences individually or in small packages.
“Smart planning makes all the difference,” Curley added. “Traveling during shoulder season, between peak and off-peak, means lower prices but still great weather and service. And choosing emerging destinations or boutique hotels can feel just as luxurious without the big price tag.”
Her best advice? “Prioritize what matters most to you, whether it’s a private tour, incredible meals, or a really comfy bed. And work with a travel advisor. We know how to find those upgrades, perks, and sweet spots that make your money go further.”
TRIPS FOR EVERY BUDGET,
continued on page 20.
Words From the TRAVEL WISE
Native Tulsan Lynne Kennedy has done it all — domestic work travel, international trips, even two years aboard a 43-foot yacht sailing 5,500 miles across the Caribbean. But her favorite trip? Italy.
“I spent 17 days with only a backpack and a crossbody purse,” she said. “It was my first time traveling so lightly — and it was awesome.”
Kennedy studied Rick Steves’ “Guide to Italy” before departing, “We rode high-speed trains, which was easy since we didn’t struggle with roller bags like most travelers. We stayed in Airbnbs with washers and dryers, so we always had clean clothes. Driving the narrow, winding roads of ancient villages was unnerving, but I prefer walking anyway. It’s the best way to truly experience a place, dining and shopping where the locals do.”
Her advice? “Expect the unexpected. Pack light. Keep your meds and essentials in your carry-on. Always have a copy of your ID and passport. And be patient. Some of the best memories happen when things don’t go as planned.”
Tulsan Valerie Baird-Brown agrees. While she’s a big planner, she advises against planning every second of your trip. “Have a sangria. Eat bread and cheese in the park. Some of the best times are those spontaneous, unplanned moments.”
That said, a little planning still goes a long way. For her upcoming trip to Paris, she’s already secured Eiffel Tower tickets since those must be purchased 60 days in advance. “You can’t just wing it anymore,” she noted. “Plan what matters most, then leave space to explore.”
Lynne Kennedy spent two years sailing the world in a 43-foot yacht. She wrote about the journey in “On a Reach,” available on Amazon.
PERSONALIZED TRIPS
LUXURY TRAVEL
Luxury isn’t just five-star hotels anymore. An expert tells us today’s luxury is all about personalization.
“Luxury means something different for everyone,” said Carly Curley, Tulsa travel consultant. “For us, it’s about creating a trip that feels totally personal, like it was made just for you. That might be a five-star hotel with amazing service, or a small boutique spot that just gets your style.
“Some people want barefoot days by the sea, others want to be pampered or to dive into local culture,” she continued. “But true luxury is when every detail is taken care of, and your whole trip just flows smoothly, so you can show up and enjoy every moment. That’s what we aim to deliver every time.”
BUCKET LIST TRAVEL
Curley shares the story of a couple who had traveled the world but called their recent trip to Croatia the best ever. “Every detail had been handled ahead of time, from private transfers to dinner reservations, so they could simply show up, be present, and enjoy every moment.”
Curley says that cultural immersion is popular with travelers. “People want to feel a place, not just check it off a list. At the same time, privacy and those ‘wow’ moments that can’t be mass-produced are just as important. That thoughtful balance is what makes a trip truly bucket-listworthy.”
RIVER CRUISES
“For a first luxury cruise, we often recommend starting with a river cruise,” Curley said. “They’re intimate, beautifully run, and let you explore multiple destinations without ever having to repack. You’ll enjoy exceptional dining, curated excursions, and the kind of attentive service that makes everything effortless.”
If you’d rather be at sea, she suggests smallship cruises, which offer personalized experiences and access to hidden ports larger ships can’t reach.
WELLNESS RETREATS
Gone are the days of simple spa weekends. Today’s wellness retreats offer diagnostics, yoga, nature immersion, and even longevity treatments. Top picks include Canyon Ranch (with locations in Arizona, Massachusetts, Texas, and California), Miraval Resorts (in Arizona, Texas, and the Berkshires), and SHA Wellness Clinics, which blend Eastern and Western medicine
in high-end settings in Spain and Mexico. Whether you’re diving into a full health reboot, de-stressing, or need a detox, these destinations bring luxury to well-being.
LUXURY RAIL JOURNEYS
“Luxury trains are one of our favorite recommendations if you want to slow down and really experience a destination,” says Curley. “Belmond’s Venice SimplonOrient-Express is classic elegance at its finest. In Peru, the Andean Explorer takes you through breathtaking Andes landscapes with top-tier service. Closer to home, the Rocky Mountaineer in Canada is gaining popularity for its dramatic scenery and hospitality. If you love the journey as much as the destination, these trains deliver,” she said.
SAFARI SPLURGE
A luxury safari isn’t just about spotting wildlife, it’s about the journey itself. Every detail is curated with care, offering a refined, immersive experience. While the animals may be the same, the difference lies in the details: expert guides, stunning lodges, gourmet meals, and thoughtful touches that transform your trip into something truly unforgettable.
“An African safari is absolutely worth it,” Curley says. “It’s immersive, thrilling, and offers a deep connection with nature.”
HERITAGE TRIPS
These trips are a meaningful way to walk in the footsteps of your ancestors. Travel agents can help you dig into your roots — literally. “They can help with everything from expert genealogists to visits to ancestral towns, local archives, and historical sites,” Curley explained.
Luxury means something different for everyone. For us, it’s about creating a trip that feels totally personal, like it was made just for you. That might be a five-star hotel with amazing service, or a small boutique spot that just gets your style.
– Carly Curley, co-owner of Simpatico Travel ”
Wellness retreats give travelers a chance to relax in splendor.
Photo courtesy of Carly Curley, co-owner of Simpatico Travel
Bucket-list wildlife: giraffes gather at a watering hole in South Africa.
Photos courtesy of Carly Curley, co-owner of Simpatico Travel.
Word Search / Getaways
Complete the grid so each row, column, and 3x3 box contains each digit 1-9 without repeating the number.
Word Clues
Each answer starts with the letter QU.
To do this mental word game, read these clues; each answer refers to a word starting with the letters QU. Answers on page 31.
When there is no noise.
One of the main wing or tail feathers on a bird.
One of four parts.
Giving up on something. Leaving a job forever.
A small game bird.
A whole-grain food. Good source of fibre.
A warm bed covering often with decorative design.
A platform for loading or unloading ships.
Each of five children born at one birth.
Loose wet sand that may be hard to get out of.
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 31.
When it comes to home improvement, Tulsa Seniors trust Burnett.
Word Jumble
Answers
Osteoporosis Is Not Just for Women
The
Hidden Bone Health Risk for Men
Osteoporosis affects millions of Americans — but many men are unaware they’re at risk. Women often get bone density tests to screen for osteoporosis, but many men don’t even realize the danger until they suffer a major fracture. A new survey commissioned by The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center among U.S. adults found that only 1% of U.S. men are concerned about bone density.
The percentage concerns Paul Lewis, MD, an interventional radiologist at Ohio State Wexner Medical Center. “It’s a silent disease, and it’s silent until it makes some noise, and how it makes noise is with a fracture,” said Lewis, who often treats patients with spinal and pelvic fractures.
The National Spine Health Foundation estimates that 2 million men have osteoporosis, while another 16 million men have low bone mass, known as osteopenia. The Ohio State survey found that cancer is the number one health
concern for men, followed closely by heart disease. Other top concerns include obesity and sexual health.
With so many other pressing medical concerns, men often are surprised to learn they have osteoporosis. The disease, which means porous bones, causes a gradual loss of bone density and strength, which puts individuals at higher risk for broken bones, even from minor falls. A fracture in an older adult can be deadly, which is why prevention is key, Lewis said.
“If you don’t participate in resistance training as early as 30 years old, 40 years old, you can start losing up to 3% of your bone mass per year,” said Lewis, who is also an associate professor in The Ohio State University College of Medicine. It is possible to rebuild bone density through exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding excessive smoking and alcohol consumption. “If we maintain more active lifestyles longer in life, we do anticipate less bone loss,” Lewis said.
In addition, once someone develops spinal fractures due to osteoporosis, interventional radiologists can treat them with kyphoplasty or vertebroplasty procedures. During kyphoplasty, a small balloon is inserted into the fractured vertebra and inflated to create a cavity. Bone cement (a synthetic material made of polymethyl methacrylate) is then injected into the cavity to stabilize the fracture and treat the pain.
Vertebroplasty involves injecting bone cement directly into the fractured vertebra without using a balloon, providing immediate stabilization and pain relief. “Both procedures aim to relieve pain, restore vertebral height, and enhance spinal stability, allowing patients to regain function and mobility. They are performed under a twilight sedation and fluoroscopic imaging guidance. Patients experience minimal downtime and faster recovery compared to open surgery,” Lewis said.
The loss of the hormone testosterone also contributes to weak bones, which is why men need to be more mindful of osteoporosis as they age. Lewis recommends that men begin this conversation with their doctor at age 30, giving themselves plenty of time to prevent weak and porous bones.
“We’re treating more than just a fracture; we’re treating the whole person,” Lewis said. “They’ll be more active and they’ll be more independent. They won’t be as isolated because of this pain and staying at home or staying in a chair.”
Information courtesy of Ohio University Wexner Medical Center.
By Julie Wenger Watson /Arts &
Taking On Twain Emmy-Winning Actor Returns to Tulsa in October
In October, Emmy Award-winning actor Richard Thomas returns to Tulsa to portray Mark Twain, one of the most celebrated and influential American writers of the 19th century, in “Mark Twain Tonight!” The show will be presented at 2 p.m. Saturday, October 25, at the Tulsa Performing Arts Center. Tickets range from $30 – $90.
The one-man play was originally written and performed by Hal Holbrook and premiered on Broadway almost 60 years ago. During his lifetime, Holbrook performed the Tony Award-winning work thousands of times to millions of people nationwide. Since Holbrook’s death in 2021, Thomas is the first and only actor authorized to perform the play, which brings Twain’s irreverent humor and observations to life.
SCREEN AND STAGE SUCCESS
For a generation of television viewers, Thomas will forever be “John-Boy,” the eldest of seven siblings whose fictional lives in rural Western Virginia were chronicled in “The Waltons,” a popular and long-running show from the 1970s. In reality, the 74-year-old has had a rich and varied career in film, television, and stage that started well before that beloved series and has continued ever since.
In addition to receiving an Emmy Award for “The Waltons,” Thomas has been nominated for multiple Golden Globe Awards. In 2017, he was also nominated for a Tony Award for his work in “The Little Foxes.” This fall, Thomas will be inducted into the Theater Hall of Fame during a ceremony at Broadway’s Gershwin Theatre.
“I was a hard-working child actor, which is always a good way to start, if you can, then I became a hard-working adolescent and a young leading man. Now I’m a character actor. It’s wonderful.”
It’s not a surprise Thomas became an actor. In many ways, he was born to the stage. His parents were professional dancers who later became celebrated teachers, owning and operating a dance school in New York City.
Tickets are on sale now for “Mark Twain Tonight!”
To reserve yours, visit celebrityattractions.com/ tulsa, call (918) 596-7111, or go by the Tulsa PAC ticket office Monday through Friday, 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. For more information on “Mark Twain Tonight!” go to twainplay.com or tulsapac.com.
“It was a fantastic incubator for a young person,” he recalled. “It was just a wonderful world to be a child in.”
Thomas loves the ephemeral nature of live performance and all that goes along with the production.
“It’s everything — being in the theater, being with a company, coming together every night to tell the story. It’s the audience, the text, the repertoire. It’s the writing, the playwrights, the language — all of that,” he said. “It’s the whole ball of wax.”
FOLLOWING IN BIG FOOTSTEPS
Thomas is honored and thrilled to be performing Holbrook’s play. The two actors had crossed paths many times during Holbrook’s lifetime, and they held a mutual admiration. When Holbrook’s estate contacted him about the Twain production, Thomas answered, “Yes,” immediately.
“All the kudos and all the praise go to him (Hal Holbrook) for this. I’m just delighted they reached out to me to keep it going,” Thomas said. “Hal put something extraordinary together, and I think it’s terrific that it’s coming out again. It’s always a good time for Twain because so many of his complications and difficulties and darkness absolutely mash up perfectly with the American psyche, with what we are, and with our contradictions.”
Thomas is looking forward to his return to Tulsa, having visited the city last March while playing the role of lawyer Atticus Finch in the Broadway adaptation of Harper Lee’s book, “To Kill A Mockingbird,” during Celebrity Attractions’ 2024 – 2025 season. A music fan, Thomas visited the Woody Guthrie and Bob Dylan Centers, as well as the Gathering Place and Greenwood Rising.
“I love Tulsa. I had such a wonderful time,” he said. “I loved the audiences, too.”
Richard Thomas is pictured at the Mark Twain House & Museum in Connecticut.
Photos by Julieta Cervantes
Costume Designer Sam Fleming
Wig Designer Luc Verschuren
Book Club/
Michael Wallis
Two new nonfiction books challenge myths about larger-than-life characters in the Wild West. Do we like the facts or are the legends more entertaining? Maybe we can have it both ways.
“Belle Starr: The Truth Behind the Wild West Legend”
Michael Wallis, a best-selling author who lives in Tulsa, has written the definitive biography of infamous outlaw Belle Starr. After her murder in 1889, just shy of her forty-first birthday, she became known as the Bandit Queen. Was she really? Or was the flamboyant young woman from Missouri the subject of romanticized storytelling? One thing for sure, she liked bad boys and good horses. Too often, Wallis writes, the horses didn’t belong to her. Another thing for sure, she was an independent woman and a rebel against the prevailing culture. In Carthage, Missouri, she was classically educated to be a Southern belle, but two forces drove her in a different direction. One force was her fearless and independent nature. The second influence was the Civil War.
The first 80-some pages of Wallis’ thoroughly researched book recreate the violent Kansas –Missouri milieu of the girl Myra Maibelle Shirley, who would become the woman Belle Starr. To think of the roiling warfare through towns and farms as guerrilla skirmishes is like comparing the Grand Canyon to a drainage ditch.
Wallis, a native Missourian, paints the true picture. The struggle for Missouri, the only proslavery state north of the Mason-Dixon Line, was not a footnote to the Civil War; it was the
The Very, Very Wild West
seedbed of the Civil War. Between 1861 – 1865, more than 1,200 battles were fought in the state, with passion raging in both Kansas and Missouri loyalists.
For example, Jayhawkers descended on Osceola, Missouri, in 1861 and “looted and burned houses and businesses, bombarded the courthouse, robbed the bank,” then executed nine citizens in the town square. A Jayhawk leader said Missourians were “wolves, snakes, devils,” and “We believe in a war of extermination.” Missouri was “simply Hell,” a Union officer said. Neighbors were killing one another and burning each other’s homes. “Nothing was too awful or too cruel for them to do. How I pitied the women and children in the state.”
When her hometown of Carthage was burned to the ground and he r brother killed by a guerrilla group, young Belle Starr swore revenge against all Yankees and vowed to be a friend to “any brave and gallant outlaw.” Pushed out of Missouri by the war, she finally settled in Indian Territory, now Oklahoma, wore a pearl-handled Colt .45, married, was widowed, took lovers, and associated with outlaws and horse thieves such as Jesse James and the Younger brothers. Wallis’
Bonus Content
Bryan Burrough
muscular, driving storyline will give you both the facts and the fable. I found her to be a woman of great courage and style amidst hard, hard times.
“The
Gunfighters: How Texas Made the West Wild”
In Bryan Burrough’s “The Gunfighters: How Texas Made the West Wild,” once again, the Civil War is the backdrop. Southerners bearing a grudge for their Lost Cause spilled into Texas, already a violent place spawned by wars against Mexico to the south and the Comanche to the north. Rustlers, hustlers, gamblers, pimps, lawmen, many of them trigger-happy and some of them sociopaths, comprise the cast of characters in this book.
Longhorn cattle drives took this rough and tough mentality north to Kansas and beyond, but it all seemed to start in Texas, which produced the most gunfights and gunfighters. Sometimes they were petty feuds and bitter vendettas. Sometimes they were duels of honor. Rarely were they as glamorous as in Western movies.
Stories of familiar names are here: Wild Bill Hickok, Bat Masterson, Wyatt Earp, John Wesley Hardin, but many are lesser known and just as colorful. Burrough covers a lot of wellresearched history, but his prose style — casual and conversational — can be annoying. The book is romping good fun, and it’s easy to understand why both General Philip Sheridan and Mark Twain are quoted as saying, “If I owned both Hell and Texas, I’d live in Hell and rent out Texas.”
Vacation Time
Museum of Tulsa History • 2445 S. Peoria Ave., Tulsa
Spartan Aircraft Company originally built planes but made the switch to high-end camping trailers following World War II.
A man fishes off the Midland Valley Railroad Bridge.
This Month in History
SEPTEMBER 1, 1972
Bobby Fischer Defeats
Boris Spassky
Bobby Fischer defeated Boris Spassky of the then USSR at the World Chess Championship in Iceland. Fischer, the first American to win the title, was considered a chess prodigy, having won eight U.S. Championships, including a perfect 11 – 0 score in 1964. Billed as a Cold War battle between the U.S. and the USSR, the match garnered significant media attention and was broadcast live on American television.
SEPTEMBER 4, 1957
Desegregation Attempt Blocked
When nine Black students attempted to attend Little Rock’s Central High School, Arkansas Governor Orval Faubus ordered the National Guard to block them despite a Supreme Court mandate. The standoff lasted several weeks, and 1,000 U.S. Army troops were sent to maintain order and allow the students to attend. The governor eventually closed all Little Rock public high schools for a year to prevent Black students from enrolling.
SEPTEMBER 8, 1900
Deadly Galveston Hurricane Strikes
Called the deadliest natural disaster in U.S. history, the Galveston hurricane left approximately 8,000 residents dead, 10,000 homeless, and destroyed 7,000 buildings. It would be considered a Category 4 storm by today’s standards with 140 mph winds. In response to the storm, engineers “raised” the island by building a seawall to protect it from future storms. The storm severely crippled Galveston’s economic boom as people and businesses relocated to Houston.
SEPTEMBER 12, 1943
German Troops Free Mussolini
A raid by German soldiers, acting on orders from Adolf Hitler, liberated deposed fascist dictator Benito Mussolini from a hotel in the Italian mountains. Mussolini, during his rise to power, founded the National Fascist Party in Italy. Suspected of war crimes, he and his associates were executed in 1945. Their bodies were hung upside down from the roof of a service station and spat on by local villagers.
SEPTEMBER 20, 1973
King Bests Riggs in Tennis
An estimated 90 million people watched the tennis match billed as “The Battle of the Sexes” between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs. King was the top-ranked player in the world and a strong advocate for gender equality. Riggs, a top men’s player in the 1940s, was an avowed chauvinist and claimed women’s tennis was inferior to the men’s game. King won in straight sets.
SEPTEMBER 25, 1690
Boston Newspaper Published “Publick Occurrences Both Forreign and Domestick” was the first multi-page newspaper published in British North America. The first issue, published in Boston, offended the colonial governor and was promptly closed down by authorities. The paper included an account of a battle during the French and Indian Wars, the smallpox outbreak, and the execution of Native American prisoners of war.
Mary Jane Campbell, Jane Clinton, Myrtle Stansbery, and Lon Stansbery are pictured on a beach vacation, circa 1925.
Madolin Bolger, Elsie Bowers, and Mina Barry feed pigeons at St. Mark’s Square in Venice, Italy, while on a European vacation.
Photos courtesy Museum of Tulsa History
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
2 Plots in Calvary Cemetery
2 plots in Calvary Cemetery (91st & Harvard) section 1, Our Sorrowful Mother, Lot 351, Space 5 and 6. Valued at $3,850 each, will sell both for $5,500. Call or text (918) 607-5640.
2 Spaces in Memorial Park
Section 5, Lot 428, Spaces 7 & 8. Location easy to find near Memorial. Call Don at (918) 520-0646 or text with name & phone number. Seller pays Transfer Fee. Sold together ONLY for $2,100 CASH for both.
FLORAL HAVEN LOTS ($1,500)
Five lots together at Floral Haven Cemetery in Sermon on the Mount section near 71st Street. Block 2, Lot 27, Spaces 2-3-4-5-6. $1,500 for one lot or $2,500 for two. Will consider a good offer for all lots or any combination. Need to sell. Howard: (918) 629-3121 or howard.rhodes@cox.net
Floral Haven Plot for Sale
One plot for 2 people. Worth $7,000. Will take $3,000 and I will pay the transfer fee. Call (918) 408-6334.
Garden of Peace in Memorial Park
2 Plots available in Memorial Park. Located in Garden of Peace, Section 44, Lot 32 – 7 & 8. Easy access with beautiful drive over little bridge to area. Lots next to shaded tree. Priced to sell at $1,800 each. Call (918) 760-9014.
Garden of the Prophets –Memorial Park
Selling 2 burial lots, section 57, lot 161, spaces 1 and 2. $1,350 each ($1,850 value). Seller will pay transfer fee. Call or text Linda at (918) 697-1701.
Lots in Floral Haven Memorial Gardens
Four lots in Garden of Everlasting Life. Very easy to locate within the oldest area of Floral Haven. Lot 115C, Spaces 1,2,3 and 4. Valued at $6,000 each and will sell for $2,500 each. Call (918) 798-4145. Please leave a message if no one answers.
Low Prices for Memorial Park Lots
Regular price $1,870 each. Section 21, Lot 77A, spaces 1 & 6, both
$1,800. Section 21, Lot 23A, spaces 3 & 4, Lot 24A, spaces 3 & 4, two for $3,000, all four $5,000. Seller pays transfer fee. Contact Steven (636) 575-1469 or email steven1912@charter.net.
Memorial Park – 2 Spaces Available
Two spaces available in Memorial Park Cemetery. The spaces, located in Section 48 Lot 320 (spaces 3 & 4) in South Lawn section--one section over from the creek. Lots have been reduced in price to $2350 each from $2,850. Bronze only garden. Willing to negotiate price just call (918) 671-3152.
MEMORIAL PARK CEMETERY, LOTS FOR SALE!
5111 S. Memorial, Tulsa OK 74145. VERY LIMITED: 2 LOTS, SIDE BY SIDE. Bronze or Granite markers allowed! Location: Garden of Light, Section 21, #3 and #4. Close to road, Chapel, Leon Russell and view of water. Sold together $2,000 each, $4,000 Total. Call (904) 629-1042.
Memorial Park Companion Crypt Memorial Park - Companion Crypt. Section 27, Unit 3, Row 23, Companion Crypt A. Current value - $10,925. Asking $7,000. Contact: johnholderman2@gmail.com
Memorial Park Garden of the Apostles
Four spaces in section 28, lot 111, spaces 1,2,7,8. Bronze only section. Current value $2,150 each. Will sell all four, or in pairs for $1,750 each. Call or text (918) 633-6138 with message ‘Memorial Park Lots’ and a call back number.
Memorial Park, Garden of the Christus South of the chapel. Section 15, lot 260, plots 4, 5 and 6, in a row. Will sell separately or together. Note: this is a bronze-marker only section. $1,200 each. BTW Bob Wills is buried in this section! Call John (918) 446-1730.
Memorial Park – Garden of the Prophets
Available: Five adjoining spaces, including two full-sized coffin crypts, located in picturesque Section 57, Lot 398; Spaces 1-4 and Lot 399; Space 4 near the recently added Bronze Angel statue. EXCEPTIONAL SAVINGS! $1,395 ($1,850 value) for each space and $699 ($950 value) for each crypt. Call/Text (714) 313-7616; email paulbland2@yahoo.com
Memorial Park Mausoleum Companion Crypt Companion crypt available in Memorial Park Cemetery. Crypt A located in Section 27-1, Row 57. Priced at $9,025. Call or text H.L. at (918) 284-0306 or email hlmoore_1@att.net.
Memorial Park – Shady Lane South
Three lots section 7A in old part close to bell tower. Lot 69, Spaces 1, 11 &
12. Flat markers only. Transfer fee paid by seller. Internment fee paid by buyer. Valued at $2,450 ea. Space 1 $1,500, Spaces 11 & 12 sold as pair only $3,200 pr. Call/text (918) 804-6871.
CLEANING
Live Beautifully! You Deserve It! Here at Moore Cleaning we are your trusted source for seniors needing assistance with home cleaning. You are our priority! We have over 23 years experience and references from our loyal customers. We customize our cleaning to meet your needs. Also offering window cleaning and organizing. Reasonable rates. Please call today to set up your appointment. Marybelle Moore (918) 671-5065. Marybellemoore111@gmail.com.
New Season Cleaning Service
New Season Cleaning Service offers residential housecleaning weekly or bi-weekly. Reasonable rates for a job well done. Accepting new customers!! Call Todd at (918) 630-0747 Visit www.newseasoncleaningservice. com or email newseasoncleaningservice@gmail. com.
Window Cleaning. Housecleaning. Window Cleaning – I make your windows shine no matter what condition they are in. Chandeliers, light fixtures and mirrors. House Cleaning – can do on regular basis, move-in or move-out, construction clean, also will do curio/china cabinets and special projects. Experienced in all areas including detail and organization. Reasonable rates and references. Call (539) 664-1986.
DAYTIME CARE
Daytime Care For Older Loved Ones
LIFE’s Adult Day Health offers convenient, affordable daytime care at three locations in Tulsa and Broken Arrow. For more information, call LIFE’s Adult Day Health at (918) 664-9000.
DRIVER SAFETY
AARP Smart Driver Course
Take the AARP Smart Driver Course and learn proven safe driving strategies plus possibly get a discount on your car insurance. Courses available in the Tulsa area. (866) 238-8355.aarp.org/drive. Interested in becoming a volunteer instructor? aarp.org/auto/driver-safety/ volunteer.
ESTATE SALES
2MS Estate Sales...Tulsa’s Finest! Downsizing? Estate Liquidation? Let us take the worry away and maximize your return. No out of pocket expense. We specialize in senior transitions, with over 20 years in the senior housing market. My team includes realtors, moving company, senior housing and attorneys if needed. Please contact Michelle Reed (918) 691-5893 or Atulsa@aol.com also Facebook 2MSestatesalestulsa for a free consultation.
FINANCIAL INSURANCE
A New Medicare Plan!
Do you know about the new Medicare Supplement Birthday Rule? Each year, starting on your birthday, you have 60 days to shop and enroll into a different Medicare Supplement plan with no medical questions! Find out more by calling MedicarePrepare at (918) 420-9999. Our local agents can answer your questions and may be able to save you money on premiums.
Medicare Assistance Program (MAP) at LIFE Senior Services provides accurate information, counseling and assistance for Medicare beneficiaries, their representatives and persons soon to be eligible for Medicare. Call MAP at LIFE Senior Services (918) 664-9000 or toll-free at (866) 664-9009.
GARDEN/LAWN CARE
AAA Lawns & More
Total tree and lawn care. Specializing in reasonably priced tree removal or trimming any size tree. Fence repair and installation. Insured, honest, experienced and dependable. Veteran-owned. We are a small company with personal service. References available. FREE ESTIMATES. Call Larry. (918) 361-1299.
Garden Services
Flowerbed Design. Garden Installation – specializing in Butterfly & Earthkind gardens. Schedule garden maintenance. Weeding, mulching, annual color, Spring & Fall cleanup, hedge & shrub trimming, tree trimming, tree removal, stone pathways. Call Charles (918) 636-0298.
Kimble Davis Tree Service
Specializing in large tree removal and trimming. We also perform preventative tree maintenance and trimming for the health of all your trees. Please call for free estimate. (55’ bucket truck, chipper truck, crane). Call Kimble (918) 853-5383.
Mower Repair / Maintenance
All brands – Riders, ZTRs, Walk-behinds, UTVs / ATVs. Top Quality work, ASE certified Mechanic. Pick-up and delivery available. Tulsa and surrounding counties. Maintenance specials include pick-up and delivery 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Call Scott (918) 519-3869.
New Season Lawn & Tree
Fall clean-up available. Mowing, trimming, leaf removal, hedge trimming, flower beds. Small tree trimming. We offer weekly, bi-weekly & year- round services. Best rates, senior discounts. Free Estimates. Accepting new customers!! Call Todd (918) 639-2262. Email info@newseasonlawnandtree.com and check us out at www.newseasonlawnandtree.com
New Season Tree Masters
Specializing in tree removal and stump grinding. Tree trimming service available. Certified arborist on staff.
SOCIAL
Seniors (50+)
We are a fun-loving group of seniors over 50. We meet every Thursday, 11:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. at the Golden Corral, 8144 East 21st Street. We eat at 11:00, have a short meeting and then play cards. Join us for great fun and fellowship. Questions, call Linda at (918) 955-9180.
SENIOR SINGERS
Love to sing? Come join Vintage Voices. We are a group of seniors who love to sing and make music together. We sing a variety of pop, contemporary, and classic choral music. Practice every Thursday at 10 a.m. at 29th & Peoria. No audition required. Questions, call Steve (918) 691-2267 or Claudia (918) 381-9367.
TRANSPORTATION
My Driver Transportation Service
Let me do the driving. To and from work, airport, shopping, errands, post office, appointments. Also, LIFT VAN transportation available. Able to assist getting to and from bed. Senior sitting. Also, small breed dog boarding. 20 years experience. CLEET certified and licensed. References. Member, Better Business Bureau. (918) 491-9929.
PREMIUM SENIOR TRANSPORT NOW AVAILABLE
Entrusted Transport provides non-emergency medical & senior transportation services throughout Oklahoma. Our drivers are courteous & highly professional. We assist riders all the way to check-in at your appointment OR to home, just like family would! Wheelchair vehicles available. Call (918) 290-3400, Schedule rides any date & time. EntrustedTransport.com.
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 caregiver relief by sitting with patients for an hour or so. Training is provided. (918) 740-0244.
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.
Vintage Friends
Jewel Alsip
In Memory of Billy R. Alsip
William Bailie In Memory of Myrna Bailie
Gretchen Battaglia In Memory of John Battaglia
Charles & Marion Weber Foundation In Memory of Marion Weber
Joey Farque In Honor of Sherri McAdams
Norma Hollaway In Memory of Butch Neufeld
Jess L. and Miriam B. Stevens Foundation In Honor of Beverly K. Smith
Betty Key In Memory of David Key
Curtis Ware In Memory of Narlean Mayes
SEPTEMBER ANSWERS
(918) 664-9000, ext. 1206 or bdornblaser@LIFEseniorservices.org
Interstate 95 in New England’s largest state is a MAINE ROAD.
SUDOKU
Berry Center for Seniors 4821 S. 72nd East Ave, Tulsa, OK
— Gail
CommunityCare
BONUS CONTENT
Fabulous Flavors
Ingredients:
• 1 medium banana, peeled and frozen
• 1 cup fresh baby spinach
• ½ cup ice cubes
• ½ cup cubed fresh or frozen pineapple
• ½ cup chopped peeled mango or frozen mango chunks
• ½ cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
• ¼ cup sweetened shredded coconut
Lime Coconut Smoothie Bowl
Recipe courtesy of Taste of Home Makes 2 Servings
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 2 teaspoons grated lime zest
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon spreadable cream cheese, optional
Optional
Lime wedges, sliced banana, sliced almonds, granola, dark chocolate chips, and additional shredded coconut
Instructions:
1. Place the first 11 ingredients in a blender. If desired, add cream cheese. Cover and process until smooth.
2. Pour into chilled bowls. Serve immediately, with toppings as desired.
Fabulous Flavors
Ingredients:
• 8 stalks trimmed celery, peeled and cut into 3-inch lengths
• 1 leek, halved lengthwise, washed, and cut into 3-inch lengths
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
Braised Celery & Leeks With Vanilla
Recipe courtesy of Food Network
• Salt and pepper
• ¼ cup celery leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 F.
2. Layer the celery and leeks in a baking dish. Add the chicken broth, butter, and vanilla extract. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt and a dash of pepper.
3. Cover with foil and cook in the oven for 30 minutes. Uncover and cook until tender, about 20 more minutes. Top with celery leaves.
Ingredients:
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 medium russet potatoes (about 2 ¼ pounds), peeled and chopped
• 3 leeks, white and light green parts only, thinly sliced
• 3 celery stalks, chopped, plus yellow leaves for garnish
• 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 6 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1 ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ teaspoon ground pepper
• 1 cup heavy cream, plus more for drizzling
Potato Leek Soup
Recipe courtesy of The Pioneer Women, Sloane Layton
Make 6 – 8 Servings
• Hot sauce and fried onions (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium to large pot, heat the oil and butter over medium heat. Add the potatoes, leeks, and celery. Cook, stirring, until the leeks are tender, 6 to 8 minutes. Add the garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
2. Stir in the chicken broth, thyme sprigs, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to mediumlow and cook, uncovered, until the potatoes are tender, 15 to 20 minutes.
3. Remove the thyme sprigs. Transfer about 4 cups of the soup to a blender. Remove the top insert from the lid and cover with a kitchen towel. Puree until smooth, about 30 seconds. Add back to the pot with the remaining chunky soup. Stir in the cream and cook over medium-low heat, stirring, until the soup is slightly thickened, 10 to 15 minutes.
4. Season the soup with more salt and pepper. Garnish with celery leaves, hot sauce, prepared fried onions, and another drizzle of heavy cream, if you like.
Ingredients:
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 ½ cup water or broth
• 1 lime, zested and juiced (about 2 tablespoons juice)
• ½ cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
Cilantro Lime Rice
Recipe courtesy of Taste of Home
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh sieve until the water runs clear. Set aside.
2. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and saute for 30 seconds, until fragrant. Add the rice and salt, and stir the rice for a minute, lightly toasting it.
3. Add the water or broth, bring it to a boil, cover the pot, and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Remove the pot from heat (keep it covered) and let it steam for an additional 10 minutes.
4. Add the lime juice, lime zest, and chopped cilantro. Stir everything together and serve immediately!
Checklist TRAVEL TOOLS FOR GREAT AMERICAN
Explore these resources as you begin — or continue — your Great American Checklist.
Old School
RAND MCNALLY 2026
LARGE SCALE ROAD ATLAS
randpublishing.com
An affordable classic that’s easy to use, packed with information, and makes the perfect road trip partner.
AAA TRIPTIK
triptik.aaa.com
Now primarily for online or mobile app use, this personalized road trip planning tool is still available in a printed format through your local AAA branch.
50 STATES, 5,000 IDEAS
amazon.com
Part of a National Geographic series of travel books, this publication suggests the best experiences in every state.
1,000 PLACES TO SEE IN THE UNITED STATES & CANADA BEFORE YOU DIE
amazon.com
A curated list of compelling, essential, offbeat, and unforgettable places from beaches and national parks to museums and festivals.
ROADTRIPPERS roadtrippers.com
A web and mobile app useful for planning road trips with customized itineraries that include all kinds of interesting stops and plenty of practical information.
ATLAS OBSCURA
atlasobscura.com
A free mobile app with a crowdsourced collection of entertaining novelties, including a list of favorite roadside attractions in every state.
iEXIT iexitapp.com
Arranged by roadway and city, this app provides information about services available at each exit of America’s interstates.
SCENIC AMERICA
scenic.org
Provides a state-by-state list of AllAmerican Roads and national scenic byways, providing beautiful alternatives for interstate travel.
ALL FIFTY CLUB allfiftyclub.com
Track your progress through the 50 states on an interactive map, share stories, and commemorate your travels.
Enjoy These Fun & FREE Games!
Click on the cellphone images to open the game and start playing.
Memory
A classic memory game that challenges players to find matching images as quickly as possible. Click on the cards to reveal the images. You don’t need to download the game. Just press play to start and click on the “?” for instructions.
TV Jumble
This fun, entertainment-based game uses TV trivia to complete the Jumble’s scrambled word format. Press the play button to get started. Click on icons above the game for instructions, hints, and more.
Spot the Difference
Press the play button to see two similar but different images. Spot the differences in either image and click on them. Try to find them as quickly as possible. Click on the “?” for instructions.