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.

Oklahoma City Indian Clinic (OKCIC), celebrates the Red Feather Galaeach year during Native American Heritage month. This year’s occasion raised over $150,000 and will provide 30 pairs of hearing aids for patients in need.
Held at the Omni Hotel in downtown Oklahoma City, this year’s Red Feather Gala was emceed by Ali Meyer and Joleen Chaney, news anchors from KFOR. They successfully united nearly
600 supporters, including tribal representatives from various parts of Oklahoma, to contribute to OKCIC’s charitable mission. To support the cause, attendees had the opportunity to make donations through a silent and live auction and Native art.
An outstanding moment of the evening was when RADM (Ret.) Kevin Meeks received the 2023
Spirit of the Urban Indian honor. RADM Meeks was honored for his lifelong commitment to improving the well-being of Native Americans in Oklahoma. As a proud citizen of Chickasaw Nation, he currently serves as Deputy Secretary of Health. Throughout his career, he has played a pivotal role in the enhancement of health care services for American Indians.
“I am very honored to receive the Spirit of the Urban Indian Honor,” said RADM Meeks. “I’m so proud of Oklahoma City Indian Clinic’s accomplishments. They have created outstanding and nurtured outstanding partnerships with area tribes and the Indian Health Service. OKCIC is a great example for other urban Indian programs to emulate.”
The gala provided attendees with an opportunity to immerse themselves in Native American culture through a captivating dance performance by the Central Plains Dancers. Additionally, guests could make memories at the photo booth, while enjoying a night of dancing with live music and karaoke.

By Nick Thomas

Considering its vast area, it might be surprising that Texas is home to just two National Parks. If the U.S. National Park Service ever expressed interest in adding a third, Palo Duro Canyon could be a compelling candidate – assuming the Feds could pry it away from the Texas State Park system. As the second largest canyon system in the United States, it’s no surprise this spectacular natural wonder is nicknamed the Grand Canyon of the Lone Star State.
About a half hour drive south from Amarillo in the Texas panhandle, the summers are predictably shadeless and brutally hot, so take the obvious precautions if hiking during those months. Winter, early spring, and late fall are the best times to hike any scorching trail, and there are plenty of them here – more than 15 spread over some 30 miles around the 30,000-acre State Park.
Our first stop was the Visitor Center just as it was closing, but the manager kindly invited us to look around, use the restrooms, and answered a few questions. It’s a great place to begin and to appreciate the canyon rim view from the car park.
Turning right on Park Road 5 from the Visitor Center, the road winds around a bit for about a mile to a small parking area on the right and the “C.C.C. Trail ¼ mile” sign. This is the entrance to the short Triassic Trail which, in about a quarter mile, intersects with the longer CCC trail at its approximate midpoint (a map of Palo Duro Canyon State Park trails can be downloaded from the park website).
CCC stands for the Civilian Conservation Corps, a New Deal program developed during the President Franklin D. Roosevelt administration to provide jobs for the unemployed during the Great Depression of the 1930s. The CCC built a road to the canyon floor, trails, picnic areas, small foot bridges, cabins, and the Visitor Center.
The Triassic Trail is an easy half mile to the bluff and back over a few rocks and some uneven surfaces, but affords breathtaking views of the canyon. Since the trail hugs the canyon rim, hikers can watch as cars wind down the canyon basin road below where the Pioneer Amphitheater hosts popular outdoor events throughout the year.
Pets are welcome at Palo Duro Canyon State Park, but must be leashed if taken on a hike. Aside from obviously protecting the park’s resources, cactuses dot the Triassic Trail. Dogs off a leash may regret attempting to leave their scent on prickly plants! The park also has an all-terrain wheelchair for use on some trails that may be reserved by contacting the park in advance. It can also be very gusty in the region – nearby Amarillo is one of the windiest cities in the U.S.

Other easy trails include the Pioneer Nature Trail, a short 0.4-mile loop leading to the river, and the scenic 2-mile out-and-back Paseo Del Rio Trail that follows the riverbank. Many more challenging trails await the adventurous, including the CCC Trail that offers a rugged descent into the valley. This historic path, carved into the canyon nearly 90 years ago by the Civilian Conservation Corps, stands as a testament to the men whose efforts helped shape this less-traveled gem of the Texas State Park System.
Nick Thomas teaches at Auburn University at Montgomery in Alabama and has written features, columns, and interviews for many newspapers and magazines. His hiking column describes short trails, hikes, and walks from around the country that seniors might enjoy while traveling. See
www.ItsAWonderfulHike.com.

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.

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.

The Oklahoma History Center, in association with VillagesOKC, the local offices of Humana, Oklahoma Warriors Honor Flight, Navigating Medicare and the Force 50 Foundation, is proud to host a pinning ceremony honoring all the servicemen and servicewomen, active or reservists, who served anywhere in the world during the Vietnam War-era. Family members of any veteran unable to be present may also receive this pin. The event will be held in the Devon Great Hall of the Oklahoma History Center on Friday, March 29, from 10 a.m.-noon, with doors opening at 9 a.m. This event is free and open to the public.
March 29 was designated as Vietnam Veterans Day by the 2008 National Defense Authorization Act, to be commemorated with annual nationwide events. Guided by the stipulations in that act, only Vietnam War veterans and their families are recognized. However, the Vietnam War Commemoration organization is providing recognition pins to honor any US veteran who served on active duty or in the reserves in the US Armed Forces at any time during the period of November 1, 1955, to May 15, 1975, regardless of location, Vietnam or otherwise. Family members of any veteran unable to be present may also receive this pin.
The keynote speaker will be Colonel “Chuck” DeBellevue, who has been deemed “Ace of Aces,” one of only five to achieve that status from downing six North Vietnamese MiGs. He logged 550 combat hours while flying 220 combat missions, with 96 over Vietnam. His decorations include the Air Force Cross, three Silver Stars, three Legions of Merit, six Distinguished Flying Crosses, 18 Air Medals and the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Device. In 2012, he was inducted into the Oklahoma Military Hall of Fame and received the Congressional Gold Medal.
Also speaking will be Colonel Peter Plank, one of the founders of the Liberty Jump Team. This team has taken more than 100 World War II veterans back to the battlefields of Normandy and Belgium at no cost to the veterans. “Taking them to the battlefields they fought in and the villages they liberated is a humbling experience. Being a part of the Liberty Jump Team preserves the memory of those that came before us alive. We owe them that,” says Plank.
Michael Do, an Oklahoma City businessman, will speak on behalf of the Oklahoma City Vietnamese community and the South Vietnamese military. Music will be provided by the 145th Army Band, known as “The Governor’s Own.”
The Oklahoma History Center is located at 800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr. in Oklahoma City. It is open to the public Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
The Oklahoma History Center is a division of the Oklahoma Historical Society and is an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, National Archives and is an accredited member of the American Alliance of Museums. 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
https://www.okhistory.org.

UWCO Emerging Leaders spread holiday cheer to local seniors

United Way of Central Oklahoma’s (UWCO) Emerging Leaders served a warm holiday meal and more on Dec. 2 at the nonprofit’s annual Senior Holiday Gala, where nearly 200 local seniors enjoyed a festive evening at the Oklahoma History Center.
Clients of UWCO’s Partner Agencies: Catholic Charities, Metro Better Living Center, Urban League and Sunbeam were treated to a catered holiday meal, gifts, dancing and more. Members of the University of Central Oklahoma Pom and Cheer squad and Buddy the Broncho were also on hand to provide entertainment and socializing for the seniors. Santa Claus and Mrs. Clause were even in town!
“This is one of the sweetest events our Emerging Leaders put on,” UWCO President & CEO Rachel C. Holt said. “We are so grateful to have volunteers like them who put so much effort into making this event a winter wonderland for the seniors our Partner Agencies serve.”
Emerging Leaders is a UWCO affinity group for young professionals. Throughout the year, Emerging Leaders, who contribute $500 or more to UWCO, experience various social and professional development opportunities. Learn more about Emerging Leaders by emailing emergingleaders@unitedwayokc.org.

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.

Betty Mattison

(Right) 100 years old. Betty Mattison of Tulsa, born December 27, 1924, was the oldest of eight siblings who were separated early in life, some placed in local homes. Betty later reunited them, and they now hold family reunions. Since retiring in 1987, she has delivered for Meals on Wheels and enjoys sewing, knitting, and crocheting.

Betty Edmondson

(Left) 100 years old. Betty Lou Edmondson, a resident of Bethany, has commemorated her 100th birthday, having led a fulfilling life since retiring as a jewelry clerk in 1989, with a rich blend of homemaking, church involvement, hobbies such as sewing, walking, and fishing, and exploring various travel destinations while prioritizing time with loved ones. ”Betty’s words of wisdom: “Enjoy the outdoors and fresh air…walk, walk, walk!”

Mary Thomas

(Right) 100 years old. Mary Rose (Hull) Thomas of Stillwater was born in Missouri on December 16, 1924. As a devoted Presbyterian, she worked as a secretary until her retirement at age 65. Her interests included golf, basketball, and volunteering, and she cherished time spent with loved ones. Mary Rose traveled extensively with her husband and emphasized the importance of respecting one’s parents.

Dottie Pennington

(Right) 110 years old. Lessie Benningfield Randle was born, beginning an extraordinary 110-year journey of faith, love, and service, celebrated with family and friends in Tulsa. As a dedicated caregiver, she made a difference until retiring in 1981. She delighted in cooking, reading, and singing hymns, fueled by her unwavering faith. Asked about her remarkable longevity, she credited God’s blessings and thoughtful living. Lessie’s heartfelt guidance is: ‘Follow God, honor your parents, and live with integrity.

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.