Oklahoma County
Dr. William L. and Susie Price Haywood Estate
7100 N. Sooner Rd., Oklahoma City
The Dr. William L. and Susie Price Haywood Estate in Oklahoma City was constructed c. 1930 in the Late 19th and Early 20th Century Classical Revival style and is significant at the local level for its association with Dr. William Haywood, his wife Susie Price Haywood, and their roles associated with the Black community during segregation. Dr. Haywood was a prominent physician for the Black community as early as 1910 when he became the chief African American health officer of Oklahoma County. In the 1920s, he established the Utopia Hospital, which is believed to be the first African American hospital west of the Mississippi. In the 1950s, Haywood became director and chief-of-staff at Oklahoma University Hospital. Mrs. Haywood, a cum laude graduate of Langston University, established herself as the first principal for the summer school for Negro children and eventually as a summer faculty member at Langston as an English teacher and assistant registrar. Mrs. Haywood also published textbooks for students to use, covering topics traditional books did not. The Haywood Estate is listed in the National Register for the couple’s significant role in the African American community in Oklahoma City.
Listing in the National Register of Historic Places is an honorific designation that provides recognition, limited protection and, in some cases, financial incentives for these important properties. The SHPO identifies, evaluates and nominates properties for this special designation.
The State Historic Preservation Office is a division of the Oklahoma Historical Society. The mission of the Oklahoma Historical Society is to collect, preserve and share the history and culture of the state of Oklahoma and its people. Founded in 1893 by members of the Territorial Press Association, the OHS maintains museums, historic sites and affiliates across the state. Through its research archives, exhibits, educational programs and publications the OHS chronicles the rich history of Oklahoma. For more information about the OHS, please visit www.okhistory.org.

Story and photo by Van Mitchell. Staff Writer

The Commons on Classen is a $4.2 million senior living apartment complex project in the heart of Oklahoma City’s Midtown District located at 1320 Classen Drive that provides nearly 50 units of affordable housing to seniors in an amenity-rich environment.
This award-winning, energy efficient complex is for those that are 62 years of age and older. It was built at the former headquarters of Neighborhood Housing Services of Oklahoma.
“We’re affordable quality housing for seniors with amenities,” said Shannon Hitchcock, manager of the Commons on Classen. “This is a beautiful property. It’s a well-kept property. It’s a well-managed property.”
The Commons on Classen offers efficiencies, 1- and 2-bedroom apartment homes which come equipped with washer and dryer, microwave, stove/oven, garbage disposal, refrigerator and dishwasher.
“You can get a one-bedroom apartment for $675 a month plus electric, which is pretty cheap in Midtown,” Hitchcock said.
The property includes a splash pad, tot lot and patio grills, library, fitness facility, computer lab, and community room. Lawn care and maintenance are also included.
Hitchcock said the Commons on Classen currently has several apartment homes available for rent.
“We typically have a very little turnover here,” she said. “They (residents) usually stay until they have to go where they need more care which is what’s happened here this last year.”
Hitchcock said applicants must pass a background check and credit history check.
“We take pride in ensuring our tenants safety and security in the fact that we do background screenings and provide the safest environment possible,” she said.
Hitchcock said applicants must also qualify financially.
“We are affordable housing geared toward different income levels,” she said.
Hitchcock said the property’s amenities including the library are good selling points to renters.
“A lot of our residents like to just consider this an extension of their own home,” she said. “They like to come up here in the mornings and have coffee, read a book, read the paper. It’s just a nice place to come if you want to get outside of your apartment. It’s just a very pleasant place to be.”
Hitchcock said the Commons on Classen also hosts a variety of community events for residents.
“Sometimes I have a home health person that will come in and host bingo, or an ice cream social, and then talk about their services. Sometimes we’ll just do a luncheon,” she said. “We’ve had people come in and host crafting events before, and we’ve had community painting activities.”
Hitchcock said the community events are a hit with residents.
“They love it,” she said. “They love our social events. Especially when we do bingo with prizes and giveaways. They love it. They do utilize the community room quite a bit for stuff with their families like birthday parties.”
Hitchcock said the Commons on Classen location is popular due to its proximity to amenities.
“Here in Midtown, we are close to restaurants, and shopping,” she said. “A lot of my seniors don’t drive, and they can walk. There are all kinds of things here that they can do. We get a lot of young seniors that like to go do stuff. We’re close to public transportation and the trolley.”
Hitchcock said helping seniors find a home is rewarding.
“I like being able to help someone find their final home,” she said. “I like knowing that they’re safe and they’re comfortable and have a nice place to live.”
In a YouTube video, Michael Davis, a resident, said he learned about the Commons on Classen through his VA case manager.
“I was at the Serenity (Outreach Recovery) under the homeless program,” he said. “My caseworker at the VA hospital told me about this place. It was new. I went from seven years of psychological behavior to peace. My life has gotten straightened out quite a bit.”
Davis said his apartment is handicapped-accessible.
“It’s easy for me to cook and wash,” he said. “The location is convenient for me. I can ride my scooter to the VA hospital. This scooter’s rated at going 70 miles at 15 miles an hour, so I pretty much go wherever I want to.”
Davis said after losing his right leg, he became dependent on others. He said the Commons on Classen gave him his independence back.
“When they cut my leg off, it stopped everything,” he said. “I had to become dependent upon people. It’s been hard on me. I’ve always taken care of myself, and I’m still taking care of myself, and I think this facility has allowed me to be able to do that.”

For more information about Commons on Classen visit
www.nhsokla.org/apartments For leasing information, contact Shannon Hitchcock at (405) 601-6819.

Pancreatic cancer is known for its poor prognosis, though it can be potentially curable if caught early enough. The problem is pancreatic cancer usually shows little or no symptoms until it has advanced and spread. In these cases, the average pancreatic cancer survival time is three to three and a half years.
Exception to the Rule
William “Charley” Maynard of Oklahoma City has been living with the disease for 18 years. He was 46 years old when his cancer was discovered accidentally. “We had a pizza buffet at work, and I think I got food poisoning because I became extremely ill afterwards,” he remembers. “It got so bad I ended up going to the emergency room. It was there that they saw something suspicious on a scan.”
After further tests, Charley was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. It had already metastasized to his liver. He was given two to seven months to live. “I lost it,” he admits. “I thought to myself, ‘I’m too young for this.’”
Attitude Adjustment
He acknowledges he didn’t know much about the disease then, or that it was considered by many as a death sentence. “I didn’t ask a lot of questions. I didn’t want to know all those negative things. I moped around for two or three weeks, then decided this ain’t no way to live. I made up my mind that I wasn’t going to just lay down to it. I was going to continue living my life.”
He kept working through his chemotherapy treatments that were on and off for the next several years. He is now on an oral regimen to slow the disease progression and provide comfort.
“There are certainly patients who far outlive their prognosis or even become disease-free,” says Bashar Alasad, M.D., a medical oncologist at the INTEGRIS Health Cancer Institute at INTEGRIS Health Southwest Medical Center. “Overall pancreatic cancer survival rates, while still much lower than other cancers, have gradually improved over the years. I absolutely believe that Charley’s positive attitude has played a huge role in his longevity.”
Reason for Living
“I talk to God every day and I know He’s the reason I’m still alive,” Charley confesses. “I think I’m meant to raise awareness by sharing my story. I talk to those who just got diagnosed with any type of cancer and I try to motivate them. I try to give them hope.”
He adds, “I’m 64 years old now. I’ll be 65 in January. I’m proof that you can beat this disease or at least live with it for a long time. You just got to refuse to surrender to it.”
There are not clear-cut symptoms for early-stage pancreatic cancer. However, you should see a health care provider right away if you develop jaundice, stomach or back pain, unexplained weight loss or a sudden onset of diabetes.
If you have a first-degree family member (parents or siblings) with pancreatic cancer, you should talk to your doctor about your risk of developing the disease and the current screenings and genetic tests available.

The Oklahoma Aging Advocacy Leadership Academy (OAALA) is accepting applications for 2025. For 27 years, OAALA has provided free training for individuals to be informed volunteer community leaders and advocates for Oklahoma’s aging population. Applications will be accepted until Jan. 10, 2025.
The course kicks off in February and includes coursework through Aug. 2025. Classes typically meet all day Wednesday and Thursday in Oklahoma City, but three of the sessions will be virtual in 2025. Classes are planned on the following dates. They are subject to change with as much notice to participants as possible:
• Kickoff Meeting: Feb. 13 OKC metro
• Session 1: March 12 and 13 Virtual
• Session 2: April 9 and 10 OKC metro
• Session 3: May 14 and 15 Virtual
• Session 4: June 11 and 12 OKC metro
• Session 5: July 9 and 10 Virtual
• Session 6: Aug. 6 and 7 – OKC metro
Attendance and participation are required for each full day. There is no cost to participate as tuition is covered by sponsors, including (when applicable) lunch, books, resource materials and overnight accommodations for those who qualify. Travel reimbursements may be provided under the State Travel Reimbursement Act.
Applicants should demonstrate a willingness to use constructive advocacy techniques to effect social change and a commitment to build communities that include and value all older persons and persons with disabilities. They should also demonstrate sensitivity to the needs of people and the ability to see things from the point of view of others.
“The impact OAALA graduates make in Oklahoma communities compliments our efforts to make services and supports available to older Oklahomans,” said Jeromy Buchanan, Director of Community Living, Aging and Protective Services, a division of Oklahoma Human Services. “We cannot support all the various needs of our aging population alone and are proud to serve alongside these engaged leaders and advocates in service to older adults.”
Applications are online and must be received along with a letter of support by Jan. 10, 2025.
For more information or to request a paper application, contact Jake Stover directly at 405-714-0015 or Email OAALA@okdhs.org, or call the Community Living, Aging and Protective Services main line at (405) 521-2281.

located at 200 S Academy Road. Mercy caregivers and a chaplain gathered to celebrate the program’s start and bless it with prayers of thanksgiving.
“Anxiety and depression feel isolating to anyone, but often especially to seniors. But these are very common problems and we don’t want our neighbors to suffer alone,” said hospital Administrator Bobby Stitt. “We want everyone to know they can refer themselves, and family and friends can refer their loved ones, too.”
About Senior Life Solutions
Senior Life Solutions is an intensive outpatient group therapy program for people who are typically age 65 and older with age-related health concerns, difficult life events, transitions to new phases of life and more.
Senior Life Solutions is for people who may be experiencing:
• A traumatic event
• Anxiety
• Changes in appetite
• Depression
• Difficulty sleeping
• Feelings of sadness or grief lasting more than two weeks
• Feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness
• Loss of a close family member or spouse
• Loss of energy
• Loss of interest in favorite activities
Senior Life Solutions services offered include:
• A confidential, comprehensive assessment
• Individual, group and family therapy
• Medication education and management
• Aftercare planning
While most services are offered in a group setting, each person will also receive individual counseling. Mercy engages and supports participants in the program to make sure their unique needs are being met.
Staff includes a board-certified psychiatrist, licensed therapists, a registered nurse and other caregivers dedicated to the mental health care of older adults in the Logan County community.
Family members, physicians or other health care professionals can make a referral to the program.
For more information, call 405-282-6700 or visit the Mercy Hospital Logan County webpage on www.mercy.net.

By Marise Boehs

It was my 76th birthday and I wanted a challenge. Having never ridden a mountain bike trail, I decided to try my luck on one. l found a local Facebook riders group and asked for an easy beginner trail recommendation. Off I went to ride it.

 It did not take me long to realize the gulleys and tree roots and sharp turns where not my cup of tea. I abandoned it for Lake Stanley Draper Trail.

 It was a Tuesday, so the traffic at the lake was minimal. Only a handful of bikers and walkers were on the trail. I had an excellent 10 mile ride to the back side of the lake and back across the top of the dam.

 I would certainly recommend this trail, although, be prepared for hills. Long hills. I try to avoid the longest, hardest hills. If you start on the dam side of the trail (riding south from the marina), the hills are not that bad and you can get to the back side of the lake in about 5 miles. A nice picnic table awaits and peace and quiet. Take a break. Hydrate and have a snack. 

 Riding back across the dam is flat and has a great view of the lake on your right. I would not recommend this on the weekend though because of traffic across the dam. It’s a public road, not part of the trail.

Lake Stanley Draper Trail
Lake Draper Trail is a 14-mile loop trail located near Tinker Air Force Base. It is a car-free paved trail that offers the chance to see wildlife and some beautiful native Oklahoma wildflowers, grasses and cedars.
 And it has hills. Do not confuse this with a rail trail. The terrain can be a challenge.
 The Lake Draper Marina is located at the end of SE 104th Street and provides abundant parking and easy access to the trail. The marina also has a concession building with restroom facilities. A playground is close by as well as picnic tables and benches.

The Oklahoma Historical Society and State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) are pleased to announce the National Register of Historic Places designation for the following properties in Oklahoma. The National Register of Historic Places is our nation’s official list of properties significant in our past.
Cleveland County
Prairie House
550 48th Ave. NE, Norman
Designed by architect Herb Greene and completed in 1961, Prairie House is located at 550 48th Avenue NE in Norman. It is significant as an exemplary work of organic architecture through Greene’s architectural vision and rooted in Bruce Goff’s organic design principles. Greene’s architectural vision sought to synthesize various arts and respond to the elements of “people, place, time, materials, and spirit.” Prairie House’s intent as “something poetic” blends form, function, and environment of a particular time, place, and circumstance and embodies the organic architecture that Goff and his followers exemplify.

Stay Active and Engaged: Senior Events at the Metropolitan Library System

The new year is a perfect time to try something new, stay active and connect with others. From fitness classes to creative workshops, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at the library. This January, the Metropolitan Library System offers endless opportunities for fitness, crafting and personal growth. You’re sure to find something that inspires you. Visit metrolibrary.org for more details and a full calendar of events.

Focus on Wellness: Maintaining good health is key to living your best life and the library has you covered with a variety of wellness programs.
Total Wellness Classes: Presented by the Oklahoma City-County Health Department, these interactive sessions help prevent diabetes and heart disease through practical tips on weight loss, healthy eating and exercise. • Almonte Library: Tuesdays at 10 a.m. – Jan. 14, 21, 28
Tai Chi: This gentle exercise enhances balance and flexibility, perfect for all fitness levels. Classes are offered at several locations: • Southern Oaks Library: Beginner classes at 9 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays; Intermediate classes at 10:15 a.m. – Jan. 7, 9, 16, 21, 23, 28, 30 • Midwest City Library: Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11 a.m. – Jan. 9, 14, 16, 21, 23, 28, 30
Yoga: Relax and rejuvenate with yoga sessions tailored for all levels. • Choctaw Library: Fridays at 10:15 a.m. – Jan. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 • Del City Library: Sunset Yoga, twice a month at 6:30 p.m. – Jan. 14, 28 • Edmond Library: Yoga and Meditation, Fridays at 3 p.m. – Jan. 5, 12, 19, 26
Sound Bath: Immerse yourself in a relaxing sound bath experience led by Anna and Mark from MARKANNA Wellness. • Ralph Ellison Library: Jan. 21 at 6:30 p.m. • Edmond Library: Feb. 23 at 3 p.m.
Learn and Create: The start of a new year is the perfect time to explore a hobby or learn a new skill.
Sourdough Basics: Learn the art of sourdough baking, complete with a starter kit to take home. • Belle Isle Library: Jan. 4 at 10 a.m.
Beginner Line Dancing: Get moving and have fun learning the basics of line dancing. • Southern Oaks Library: Mondays at 1 p.m. – Jan. 8, 15, 22, 29
Knitting and Fiber Arts: Whether you’re new to knitting or a seasoned crafter, join these community-focused groups: • Downtown Crochet and Knit Club: Downtown Library, Jan. 4 at 2 p.m. • Fiber Arts Club: Southern Oaks Library, Jan. 7 and 21 at 1:30 p.m. • Jones Library: Jan. 7 and 21 at 6 p.m. • Fiber Arts Group: Bethany Library, Jan. 15 at 1:30 p.m. • Community Fiber Arts Group: Edmond Library, Jan. 18 at 9:30 a.m. • Crochet Night Meetup: Capitol Hill Library, Jan. 23 at 6:30 p.m.
Watercolor Painting: Local artist Jim Pourtorkan leads this workshop, perfect for beginners. • Warr Acres Library: Jan. 25 at 10 a.m.
Clothed Figure Drawing: Sharpen your artistic skills in this life drawing session with a live model. • Belle Isle Library: Jan. 28 and Feb. 25 at 6:30 p.m

By Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready

Many families have experienced the loss of a loved one only to discover later that a life insurance policy existed tucked away in old files, forgotten about or just unknown to the beneficiaries. Life insurance provides a financial lifeline during those most difficult times, but beneficiaries can miss out on the support they need when benefits go unclaimed. The Life Insurance Policy Locator (LIPL) can help in these situations. The Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) has helped to connect thousands of Oklahomans with millions in unclaimed life insurance policy benefits since we launched this transformative tool in 2016. I want to share more about the LIPL and how it can help you.
Before we discuss using the tool, I want to stress the importance of life insurance in your financial planning. It may seem difficult to address or discuss, but it can help your loved ones in case something unforeseen happens to you. When to purchase, what kind of policy to buy, and how much in benefits will depend on you and your situation. You will want to consider how many people rely on you financially and your financial obligations to help you answer those questions. You can find more information about life insurance shopping at www.oid.ok.gov/life.
So, how does the LIPL work? It’s easy, free and secure. First, visit www.oid.ok.gov/LIPL and click “Get Started.” Next, you will submit your request, which requires information from the deceased’s death certificate, such as the Social Security number, legal name, date of birth, date of death and the decedent’s veteran status. You will also need to indicate your relationship to the deceased. Finally, you will click the submit button and receive a confirmation email. If a policy is found and you are the beneficiary, the life insurance or annuity company will contact you directly.
The success of the LIPL speaks for itself. Since the tool’s launch in 2016, OID has helped to connect over 8,000 Oklahomans with over $161 million in unclaimed life insurance policy benefits, with almost 1,500 claiming over $32 million this year alone. The LIPL has significantly impacted the lives of many, and it can do the same for you.
Life insurance can be a lifeline to loved ones in a time of loss. However, many aren’t aware that they may be the beneficiary of a life insurance policy or an annuity. If you believe you are a beneficiary, use the free LIPL tool to find out today. If you have any questions about life insurance or need assistance with any other insurance-related questions, please call OID at 800-522-0071 or visit www.oid.ok.gov.

By: Kirsten Hubbard,
Care+Wear Community Member

A Patient’s Story That Touched My Heart
In my years working in healthcare, I’ve come across many patients and families who have profoundly touched my life. One experience stands out vividly. While working in the ICU, a patient who had suffered a terrible accident was admitted to my unit. Though he couldn’t speak during those initial moments, I did my best to care for him, keep him aware of his situation, and simply be by his side.
Over the next few days, as I continued to care for him, I met his family and found myself in frequent conversations with them. I learned his story, their story, and felt that I was truly building a bond with them. By the time I returned for my next set of shifts, the patient was able to communicate with me. He was doing much better than when I’d last seen him. Both he and his family thanked me for the care and support I had given them.
What they didn’t realize was how much they impacted me in return. Seeing him recover enough to leave the ICU and connecting with his family reminded me why I became a nurse. Moments like these fuel my passion for healthcare.
The Importance of Building Bonds with Patients
The connections we create with patients and their families are more than just meaningful-they’re vital. They form a foundation of trust, which I believe is essential for healing. When patients feel that they’re not just being “treated” but genuinely cared for, they’re more likely to open up about their concerns and challenges.
This openness allows healthcare workers to tailor support in ways that truly meet each patient’s needs. Often, it’s the human connection and empathy that give patients the courage to follow through with treatment, make lifestyle changes, and maintain a positive mindset during recovery.
How Small Gestures Make a Big Difference
Building trust with patients isn’t about grand gestures-it’s about consistency and compassion in every interaction. Personally, I focus on listening first, ensuring patients feel heard and understood. I strive to explain things in clear, simple terms and remain transparent about what they can expect.
Small actions-like maintaining eye contact, remembering details about their life, or even sitting down to be on their level-go a long way. These gestures might seem small, but they build the trust that’s critical to effective care.
Advice for New Healthcare Professionals
To those new to healthcare, I encourage you to remember that every patient is a person first. It can be easy to get caught up in tasks and outcomes, but even a few minutes spent connecting on a personal level can make a world of difference.
Patients often feel vulnerable, and showing empathy-even through a kind word or gentle tone-can help them feel cared for and reassured. These small acts of kindness are just as important to their healing journey as the treatments we provide.
Conclusion:
Why Connection Matters
Experiences like the one I shared are what keep me going in healthcare. They remind me that while medicine can treat the body, compassion and connection heal the soul. For me, these bonds are what make this work not only fulfilling but truly meaningful.
Author Bio: Kirsten is a registered nurse. Since beginning her nursing school journey, she has shared her experiences online, connecting with thousands of nurses and healthcare workers. She started her career in the neuroscience ICU, where she built a strong foundation and gained invaluable knowledge. In addition to her ICU work, Kirsten also cared for pediatric patients at a surgical center, supporting little ones immediately after their surgeries.
Driven to further her nursing education, Kirsten was accepted into a top-rated MSN program to become a family nurse practitioner. She has since transitioned to outpatient nursing, where she provides care to patients with chronic illnesses and infections. Kirsten remains committed to sharing her nursing journey with her audience, building meaningful connections, and making a positive impact throughout her career.