Retirement is often viewed as the time to relax and enjoy the fruits of your labor. It is also the perfect time to make some changes – like moving to a new house. While there may be some challenges associated with moving, starting anew in a new place can be an exciting experience. However, settling into a new house can be overwhelming. Here are some tips from Senior News & Living OK on how to quickly settle in and make your new house feel like home.
Getting Excited About Your New Home
Moving, especially when settling down after retirement, can be a rollercoaster of emotions. Leaving behind familiar people and places can be tough, but remember the bright side. Your new home is full of potential for new beginnings, fresh opportunities, and unexplored territory. Embrace the adventure that awaits.
Protecting Your Investment the Smart Way
Investing in a home warranty is a smart move for any new homeowner. With unexpected expenses, such as appliance or plumbing repairs, it can be difficult to budget for these things when they arise. A home warranty plan can provide peace of mind and protect you from these unforeseen circumstances. Consider home warranty plans that cover the repair or replacement of appliances, HVAC systems, plumbing, and more. By investing in a home warranty, you will have the security of knowing that your home is protected against expensive repair costs.
Creating a Welcoming Entryway
Your home’s entryway is the first impression that visitors get, so it should be inviting. A welcoming mat, potted plants, a wall-mounted coat rack, and a console table with fresh flowers are all easy ways to create a warm and inviting space. A charming entryway sets the stage for the rest of your lovely home.
Personalizing Your Mailbox
Your mailbox is one of the first things you see when you arrive home, so why not add a personal touch? You could add your name or house number to it or add a small sign with a welcoming message. A unique mailbox will not only make your home stand out from others in the neighborhood but also adds a personal touch.
Upgrading Your Kitchen for a Fresh and Cleaner Look
Upgrade your kitchen for a cleaner, healthier home with an under-cabinet range hood. Then, transform your space with new appliances, updated countertops, a fresh coat of paint, or a new backsplash. Your kitchen will feel like home again.
Creating a Cozy Home With Throws and Cushions
Adding comfortable elements like throw blankets and cushions can add warmth and coziness to your home. You could add some throw pillows to your sofa or armchair or drape a soft blanket over the back of your chair. These little touches can transform your space into a comfortable and inviting home.
Making Your Bedroom a Tranquil Retreat
Transforming your bedroom doesn’t have to be an expensive ordeal. Sometimes all it takes is a simple update to your bedding. Adding new bedding can make a huge difference, not just in terms of aesthetics but also for a good night’s sleep. With interchangeable duvet covers, you can easily switch up the look of your bedroom according to your mood or the season. It’s an affordable way to give life to your bedroom and create a cozy, inviting space that you’ll love coming home to.
Adding Character to Your Home With Artwork
Hanging artwork on your walls can elevate the style of your home and make it feel more personal. You can create a gallery wall with family photos or hang a statement piece that reflects your style. Artwork can add color, texture, and personality to your space and can be an easy way to express yourself.

Retiring and moving to a new house can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry! Follow these simple tips to turn your new place into a cozy home. Embrace the change, get a home warranty, spruce up your entryway, personalize your mailbox, update the kitchen and bedroom, add comfortable touches, and hang some artwork. With these easy changes, you’ll have a warm and inviting space to enjoy your retirement.

Story and photo by James Coburn, staff writer

Richard Hendricks has been an avid sports fan as long as he can remember. You might see him wearing a Brooklyn Dodger hat at the Territorial Capital Sports Museum (TCSM), located in downtown Guthrie.
“In 1950, my dad took me to see the ‘Jackie Robinson Story’. I was 9 years old, and I became a Dodger fan,” said Hendricks, executive director of the museum. “I played all three sports in high school — football, basketball, and baseball.”
Hendricks was assistant principal at Guthrie Junior High School when he invited two Hall of Fame recipients, Harlem Globe Trotter Hubert “Geese” Ausbie, and baseball’s Ferguson Jenkins, who played most of his career for the Chicago Cubs, to a Red Ribbon Week encouraging youth to be drug free. An idea grew from the gathering to create a museum to honor Oklahoma athletes and coaches. The museum opened in 1993.
“It is time for us to see if we can find somebody else who is a sports fan and familiar with Oklahoma sports, that would like to get involved with the museum and eventually take it over,” Hendricks said.
TCSM was designated by the Oklahoma State Legislature as the official sports museum for the state of Oklahoma.
“We’re in the process of trying to find a major sponsor. And if that would occur, we could afford to pay that director. But the directorships and help at the museum has been mostly on a volunteer basis,” Hendricks explained.
He would help guide the new director to learn about the museum and what it offers visitors.
“I’ll be glad to assist them anyway that I can,” he said.
John Vance Motors, Eskridge Motors, and BancFirst have been loyal sponsors of the museum.
There is a vast amount of detailed information on file. Four kiosks are placed strategically to give insightful information to visitors as well.
Hendricks’ volunteerism is from his love of Oklahoma sports and children. Three buildings are full of Oklahoma sports artifacts and memorabilia, making it the largest collection of Oklahoma sports in the state.
“All of the items here relate to athletes that were either born in Oklahoma, live in Oklahoma or went to a college or university here and went on to be professional or Olympic athletes,” Hendricks said.
Many of the former athletes he coached in Ryan, Fort Cobb, Guthrie, and Stigler have visited Hendricks at TCSM.
In 1963 he began coaching mostly Oklahoma high school basketball, and baseball teams and assisted in football. He and his wife Carolyn attended Oklahoma Baptist University and began teaching.
High school athletes come to the museum and learn that no matter where they come from, if they are determined and have God-given ability, they can be successful, Hendricks said. Visitors will first enter the basketball area of the museum. Sports legend memorabilia from Alvan Adams, Waymon Tisdale and Oklahoma City Thunder players are recognized among others. Just about any Oklahoma sport imaginable is celebrated including, wrestling, golf, and rodeo.
Rodeo cowboy star Roy Cooper’s saddle is prominently displayed at the museum.
Women athletes are celebrated including Olympic Gold Medalist Shannon Miller.
Miller is the most decorated gymnast in history.
She has earned 7 Olympic Medals and 9 World Championship Medals. Her tally of five medals (2 Silver, 3 Bronze) at the 1992 Olympics was the most medals won by a US athlete. During her career, Shannon has won an astounding 58 International and 49 National competition medals and over half have been Gold, culminating with two Gold Medals at the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta.
There is the largest collection of Phillips 66 uniforms in the state. Phillips 66 was a national basketball champion during the 1920s-40s.
The football gallery has artifacts from high school trophy winners, including a jersey of Heisman Trophy winner Billy Vessels.
“I don’t know of anyone, hall of fame or otherwise that has a Billy Vessels jersey from Oklahoma,” Hendricks said. “We even have the Native American athletes that are in the American Indian Hall of Fame that were football players — Jim Thorpe, Sam Bradford, Thomas Stidham, Sonny Sixkiller.”
Baseballs and bats form a collection of World Series memorabilia from the likes of Ted Williams, Jackie Robinson, Cy Young, and many Oklahomans such as Allie Reynolds, and Mickey Mantle. There is a Yankee display celebrating Bobby Mercer and one for Mickey Mantle.
Of historic significance is a photographic display of the Negro League. Joe Rogan was in the National Baseball Hall of Fame.
“We have one of the largest collections of Minor League artifacts and memorabilia from the Oklahoma City Indians, 89’ers, Red Hawks, Dodgers and Tulsa Drillers,” Hendricks added.
For more information about applying for the position of executive director of the Territorial Capital Sports Museum, please email Richard Hendricks at [email protected] or call 405-414-1342. For more information about the museum, visit https://www.territorialcapitalsportsmuseum.org/

Oak Haven at Westbury 55+ Retirement Community

Story by Darl DeVault, contributing editor

New construction on the south side of the sprawling Oak Haven at Westbury 55+ retirement community serves as a call to action for Baby Boomers seeking to lease one of the largest luxury homes available in the sprawly resort-style neighborhood.
Selection is at its best right now as the experienced home builder, a division of the highly-regarded Ron Walters Homes, LLC, builds out the gated property offering an exclusive neighborhood west of South Morgan Road in Yukon. “Oak Haven is the last of five resort communities our builders have provided the retirement privileged in the area while we have learned to add more resort-style amenities along the way,” Ron Walters said. “Oak Haven is the best we have ever built. We like to say this offers a “truly grand resort user experience.”
This 55+ active adult senior retirement community has all the amenities of a fully featured resort to provide residents with a carefree and comfortable living experience. This luxury home ambiance comes with all the extras that complement an active lifestyle in a community atmosphere, complete with a restaurant and plenty of places and ways to entertain grandkids and guests.
Unlike traditional senior facilities, Oak Haven leases new luxury homes, which provide residents with a comfortable living experience. The homes are well-lit with large windows, airy and open with a sense of spaciousness beyond their size.
“We feel Baby Boomers considering moving to a planned community owe it to themselves to come to see Oak Haven in person,” Walters said. “If they do that and speak to several of our residents, we are proud to have done as much as we can to help improve their retirement living.”
One of the significant advantages of living in Oak Haven is that residents are relieved of the burden of home and yard maintenance. The community offers a maintenance-free living experience, where property maintenance takes care of everything from fixing the ice maker to changing the light bulbs. This allows the residents to enjoy their retirement without worrying about home upkeep.
The luxury homes at Oak Haven come in single, duplex, triplex, and quad-plex variations, each with top-of-the-line features. The homes boast ceramic tile, natural oak wood floors, granite countertops, and stainless appliances, providing residents with a comfortable and stylish living experience.
Each home is designed to allow residents to unwind in the lavish master suite, where ample space allows for a cozy seating area and features not one but two closets to accommodate all your belongings. With a two-car garage, residents have plenty of room for storage, whether for a workbench or those cherished Christmas decorations.
The builders are now finishing the last of the three-bedroom homes. These rare gems on the property are highly sought after by those who value comfort and versatility. Residents can indulge in the spaciousness of the 1950 square feet of living space. This unique offering of three-bedroom homes sets them apart from the rest.
Right now, all the floor plans are available including:1-bedroom, including 1.5-bathroom homes spanning 1,067 square feet, 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom homes with a detached carport, offering 1,302 square feet of living space and 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom homes with a two-car garage, ranging from 1,541 square feet to a massive 1,952 square feet.
The community offers many lifestyle activities each month. Weekly schedules are full of various social activities. Mondays kick off with darts, Tuesdays feature Water Aerobics, while Wednesdays, residents get outside for a social Walk and Talk. Thursdays find residents enjoying Bingo and Writer’s Quill. Fridays offer Pickle Ball, movies in the Theater room, and Happy Hour by the pool, and Saturdays see many residents playing horseshoes.
Those residents who like to cook can share their culinary talents with everyone at the two monthly potluck parties. Those who like to try new culinary adventures meet at a local restaurant once a month for ‘Lunch Out.’
June’s extra activities included a day out to Riverwind Casino and an outdoor concert at one of the gazebos. They also had a Father’s Day party where every dad received a small gift and enjoyed Brats and Beer at the Pool House.
Oak Haven also offers its residents a multifunction community clubhouse that offers many amenities. The Fitness center includes top-of-the-line workout equipment. The clubhouse also provides exercise classes to keep residents active, and the community pool offers a perfect place for relaxation and socialization.
The pool house is an excellent place for residents to unwind, including an opportunity to play shuffleboard or a game of pool. The outdoor entertainment area provides an ideal space for hosting events and trying their hand at a new putting green. Moreover, the private theater room, which shows movies regularly, is an excellent place for residents to enjoy a cinematic experience providing the residents with movie snacks and freshly popped popcorn.
Oak Haven takes pride in its onsite Italian restaurant, Luigi’s Bistro, which is open to the public and has received rave reviews. Luigi’s Bistro serves authentic Italian cuisine, including from-scratch lasagna, premium pizza, bellinis, and offers a full bar.
The restaurant is fully featured, including outdoor seating, allowing viewing of the community’s interior and providing diners privacy and plenty of fresh air. With its delicious food and inviting atmosphere, it is no wonder that Oak Haven residents often claim it is the best Italian restaurant in Oklahoma.
Headed for a total of 108 homes at Oak Haven, the build-out is in the last phase. It bears repeating that their caring management stresses it is an exceptional senior retirement community that provides residents with a carefree living experience, luxurious homes, and abundant amenities to keep them active and healthy. This is the one place where extra bedrooms mean family can spend a part of their vacation visiting parents or grandparents there and feel like they have checked into a luxury resort.
Those Baby Boomers who want the best selection of homes in the freedom of a community atmosphere, combined with the onsite Italian restaurant, need to quickly see if Oak Haven www.oakhavenretire.com is the perfect place for them to enjoy their golden years.

story and photo by Bobby Anderson, Staff Writer

If you’ve lived in and around the Oklahoma City metro for any amount of time over the last century you’ll probably recognize the Veazey name.
And for more than a century that name has been synonymous with quality and customer service and Stephanie Veazey wouldn’t have it any other way.
The president of Bill Veazey’s Rehab and Home Care Equipment and Supplies says her family still preserves the legacy her grandfather started.
“I think the name is very important,” Veazey said. “We still have people who come and remember the old drug stores. I had a man come in the other day and said he had a dear friend who played on the Veazey Drug Store baseball team, which I didn’t even know they had.
“People associate that name with good service and quality equipment. Our motto has always been we can help and every one of us put out that extra effort.”
The Veazey’s Drug Stores were founded in 1906 by Steve Veazey with the same attitude towards the customer and the community still alive today.
Steve Veazey’s policy of “the customer is always right” and “Veazey’s will make every effort to serve them sincerely and friendly” are still the foundation at Bill Veazey’s Medical.
Bill Veazey’s Medical established in 1964 after the sale of the drug company by Bill Sr is still family-owned and operated today.
For over 90 years the Veazey Family has been serving Central Oklahoma with one of the area’s largest selections of reimbursement and cash retail products and services.
Bill Veazey’s Medical offers you experience, superior customer service, and top-quality, state-of-the-art home medical equipment, and supplies.
Stephanie Veazey says employees take extra care in making sure that they fulfill the needs of each and every customer.
Downtown OKC was the site of the first Veazey drugstore. By the 1930s, the store had grown to more than a dozen locations. By the 1950s that number had ballooned to 22 locations, giving Veazeys the distinction as the largest drugstore chain in the state.
The elder Veazey – who is also Stephanie’s namesake – passed shortly after birth in 1955. The drug company was sold in the early 1960s.
That’s when the idea for a medical equipment and party supply store was hatched by Stephanie’s father, Bill Sr.
Senior purchased a local Abbey Rents and started another Oklahoma institution.
“They had a few wheelchairs and about one hundred folding party chairs,” Stephanie said. “That’s what they started with.”
One of five children, Stephanie said the family has always been bound by work.
“We’ve all grown up and worked in this business,” said Stephanie, who grew up racing her brother, Bill Jr., in the company’s wheelchairs.
The party line and medical equipment line separated and eventually the party store moved to Wilshire Blvd and the medical supply store rooted itself on Classen Blvd.
“More people know the party store because it’s a party story and more people want to do that,” Stephanie laughed. “But once their parents or they themselves age when they need our services they remember (the name).”
The party store has come and gone with only the medical equipment store still bearing the Veazey legacy.
Stephanie’s brother works for her as does her daughter and son.
“There is a little pressure and things can go sideways sometimes but we all love each other and are out for the same thing,” Veazey said. “We’re used to it. We grew up in the old Warehouse on 8th and Walker. My daughter and son grew up doing the same thing over on Classen.
“It’s something we’re born and is kind of bred into us.”
Every now and then nurses will come in and share with Stephanie that they remember when her father would come cold calling to their hospitals.
In an age of contracts with out-of-state suppliers and large healthcare conglomerates, Veazey says it’s nice to know there’s still a local store alive that caters to the individual.
Seeing the ripple effect that her family has had throughout the last century is rewarding for Stephanie Veazey.
But so is seeing how impactful her family name can still be today.

For more information or to shop at Bill Veasey’s visit https://billveazeymedical.com/

Story by Joyce Clark, Executive Director – Saint Ann Retirement Center

LaTrona Fulbright says she ran outside and threw up the first day she worked as a Certified Nurse Aide in a nursing home. That was 28 years ago in 1995. Absorbing the home’s odors and conditions was overwhelming but also life changing. Fulbright says compassion made her turn around and return to work. She knew those she served were totally dependent on the quality of her care. She was determined to do her best to assist and serve them with respect and diligence. That attitude ultimately led to Fulbright becoming a licensed Assisted Living Administrator. Furthermore, this year she celebrated 20 years of working at Saint Ann Retirement Center, now known as Saint Ann Assisted and Independent Living.
Fulbright gives props to the hometown folks in Snyder, Oklahoma where she was born and raised. The small-town atmosphere contributed to her strong interpersonal skills and character. She was also an accomplished track star and had the self-motivation to achieve goals and overcome hurdles. In the Fall of 1999, Fulbright moved to Oklahoma City with her two young children so that she could provide a better future for them. “The big city was a very different lifestyle. It was exciting but also scary,” said Fulbright.
She started working as a Certified Medication Aide at Saint Ann Retirement Center when it opened in 2002. Fulbright says she loved the job and working at Saint Ann. She had her third child and felt blessed at home and professionally. A few years later, Fulbright earned her administrator license and served as the assistant administrator. She fully took the reins in 2010, when she was promoted to the top spot over the assisted living portion of the campus.
When asked why she has stayed and worked at the same place for two decades, Fulbright outlined two basic reasons. First, she promised herself as a young single mother that she would achieve a very good job and keep it until her kids were grown. Second, she loves her residents and the satisfaction she gets from ensuring their life is improved by living at Saint Ann Assisted Living. In fact, Fulbright said assisting residents at this point in their life is what she loves most about her job. “Being the one who gets to give residents the care they deserve is my biggest pleasure.” “I was put at Saint Ann Assisted Living to make sure great care happens.” “I think about the conditions where I first worked and stay determined that people under my care receive nothing but the best of everything.” “My top responsibility is to ensure their well-being,” said Fulbright.
Over the years Fulbright has honed her skills and list of accomplishments. She earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Health Administration Management while working her two full-time jobs as a mother and an administrator. Employee retention at Saint Ann is exceptional. Fulbright recently celebrated the retirement of two of her long-time team members and many others have worked with her for years.
Another satisfying aspect of her job is helping people understand why their mom is behaving in a certain way or experiencing a particular issue. “I help families understand where their loved one is in his/her life journey.” “Sometimes my conversations are about what is best for mom and not what is best for others including family members and facility staff,” said Fulbright. “I am a resident advocate.” Fulbright also noted that Saint Ann Assisted Living is a great lifestyle for people, many of whom have recently loss a spouse and have been living alone. “We strive to ensure residents continue to enjoy a social life.” “Even if a person needs a significant amount of assistance, they are still in need of and capable of human interaction and enjoyment.” “That is a primary aspect of our friendly and fun culture,” Fulbright said.For more information about Saint Ann Assisted and Independent Living, call Lisa at (405) 721-0747 Ext #322 or visit the website: https://www.saintannretirementcenter.com/.

Story and photos by Darl DeVault, contributing editor

Reminded of the importance of Tinker Air Force Base by the recent air show, America’s top air ace from the Vietnam War voiced some strong opinions about the significance of Tinker’s mission and how it is a linchpin for all the other aerospace concerns in Oklahoma.
Edmond’s U.S. Air Force Capt. Charles B. DeBellevue, now 77, became America’s first and only six MiG victory credit flying ace in 1972 in the skies of North Vietnam as an Air Force Weapon Systems Officer (WSO).
DeBellevue was an integral part of a two-person aircrew in the McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II, a two-seat, twin-engine, all-weather, long-range supersonic jet interceptor and fighter bomber. His air-to-air missile victories earned him the Air Force Cross and three Silver Stars.
The now-retired colonel attended the recent Tinker AFB Air Show kicking off July with a patriotic glimpse at America’s air superiority on display, allowing the Air Force and Navy to command the sky over every battlefield for 70 years. Across its trailblazing 75-year history, the U.S. Air Force’s place as the world’s most capable and most respected source of airpower is well-established.
As the last ace to serve on active duty in the Air Force DeBellevue is proud that Oklahomans support Tinker’s mission. He says brave and hard-working men and women of our United States Air Force have provided 70 years of dominance in the skies above our ground troops worldwide.
A strong military has guaranteed the freedoms we enjoy,” DeBellevue said in an interview. “The civilian and military members of the USAF are an integral part of the team that ensures our freedom.”
Historians tell us April 15, 1953, was the last time an American ground troop was killed by ordnance delivered from an enemy aircraft.
“It is an honor to see Tinker servicemembers celebrate their role in this air dominance, and Oklahoma citizens flock to the base to salute the men and women who have served and now sacrifice daily to keep our proud country free,” DeBellevue said. “When I was in my F-4D Phantom II taking off from Udorn Royal Thai Air Force Base in Thailand, I was fearless because I knew I had the best support in the world, my fellow servicemen.”
Tinker AFB area residents have some understanding of the importance of DeBellevue’s role in becoming an ace. In today’s Air Force. The WSO duties are provided to the pilots of single-seat fighters by 32 crew members with 14 monitors on the Boeing E-3 Sentry, Airborne Warning and Control System commonly known as AWACS. The Air Force’s fleet of these planes providing all-weather surveillance, command, control, and communications are based at Tinker. They provide location and targeting data to today’s fighters.
The newest version of that high technology was on display at the air show July 1-2, when the world’s most advanced multi-role stealth fighter, the Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II competed with the US Navy’s Blue Angels for the crowds’ attention. A single fighter demonstrating its stealth and next-generation technology built to replace many older and less technologically advanced fighters performed each day.
The supersonic F-35A’s helmet-mounted display system is the most advanced system of its kind. All the intelligence and targeting information an F-35 pilot needs to complete a mission are displayed on the pilot’s helmet visor.
This latest version of the best America can build incorporates a robust version of the “AWACS” aircraft capability it can communicate to the theatre of operations it patrols. This enables it to aid all other aircraft in tracking and targeting the enemy and in flying the intercept needed to shoot them down. This new system is a radar, bombardier, navigational and weapons systems analyst. The pilot provides another set of eyes on the targets to give tactical input to all American forces, both flying and on the ground.
The US Navy was well represented at the air show, just as they are as a major tenant at Tinker. The Navy’s TACAMO unit sailors based at Tinker celebrated Navy Week at the base. TACAMO is the Navy E-6 Mercury aircraft, an airborne command post and communications relay based on the Boeing 707 aircraft, similar to the Air Force’s E-3 Sentry (AWACS).
Besides delighting the crowd for the air show with the precision flying of its Blue Angels demonstration team, Navy Week was present on the base and in Oklahoma City in the week leading up to the event.
The US Navy has had a strong presence at Tinker since 1990, with sailors of the TACAMO wing and their 62nd year of operations. While Tinker employs nearly 30,000 Oklahomans, a contingent of air mission Navy sailors numbering 1,500 are proud to be known as “Red Dirt Sailors.” There has been a long-standing Navy presence in the area attached to Strategic Communications Wing One (SCW-1) at Tinker. Other active-duty members are attached to the Navy Operational Support Center (NOSC) in Oklahoma City, the local recruiting district and numerous reserve personnel who live and work in the community.
The theme for the air show was STEM with a large area devoted to the many ways in which Science, Technology, Engineering and Math are used to advance aviation agendas. STEM has been ever-present in the area Air & Space Forces Association’s (AFA) chapter activities as it provides youth opportunities.
“The AFA’s mission is to promote a dominant U.S. Air and Space Force and a strong national defense through education, advocacy and support,” DeBellevue said. “It is an excellent way for community partners and interested individuals to become involved and learn about the Air Force and Tinker Air Force Base and have a say in patriotic issues.”
DeBellevue said the AFA Central Oklahoma Gerrity Chapter supports STEM education in Oklahoma and the Rosie the Riveter project. The group and Oklahoma Career Tech put on the CyberPatriot, StellaXplorer and STARBASE OKLAHOMA programs. These are middle and high-school-level programs to advance experiential STEM education.
Organizers boast about the programs by pointing out the national winner of the 2023 StellaXplorer Program was a team from Edmond North High School Air Force Junior ROTC.
Tinker AFB has long been the linchpin, along with the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center, in attracting almost 300 businesses to Oklahoma to support America’s air dominance. The Oklahoma Defense Industry Association has partnered with the Air & Space Forces Association Gerrity Chapter 215 and Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission to support all those concerns over the years.
“Oklahomans’ exemplary work ethic and its central location make Tinker and Oklahoma an obvious location for supporting this country’s defense efforts,” DeBellevue said. “We see daily that Oklahomans and their state government here are very supportive of aviation and the aerospace industry.”
Oklahoma’s largest employer is the Department of Defense. Oklahoma’s aviation and aerospace industry produces $44 billion in annual economic activity, making it the second-largest economic engine in the state. Three segments account for the total: military aviation, $19.3 billion; off-airport aviation and aerospace businesses, $13.9 billion; and commercial and general aviation airports, $10.6 billion. The industry supports 206,000 jobs totaling an $11.7 billion payroll. The average salary in the industry is $73,300, making it one of the highest average salaries in the state.

by Flora Qualls, Your Cigna Agent in Oklahoma City – [email protected]

Long, sunny days can be pure pleasure. For many older adults, however, danger can lurk in high temperatures. Fortunately, we all can take steps to ensure summer safety.
Older adults tend to be more susceptible to heat-related conditions, often because they have pre-existing medical conditions or take prescription or over-the-counter drugs that limit the body’s ability to sweat and control its temperature, said Dr. Joseph B. “J.B.” Sobel, chief medical officer for Cigna’s Medicare businesses, which serve hundreds of thousands of seniors across the United States.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that more than 650 people in the United States die each year from heat-related illnesses. The majority are people 65 and older; other risk factors are living alone, being without access to air conditioning, and having underlying health conditions that put them at elevated risk.
However, heat-related illnesses and deaths can often be prevented. With that in mind, Dr. Sobel provides the following tips to help older adults stay safe during the summer.
Check the forecast each day. That way you know exactly what to expect. Pay special attention to heat advisories or warnings and take them seriously.
Stay indoors, in air conditioning, during excessive heat. If your home isn’t air-conditioned, spend the heat of the day someplace that is, such as a shopping mall, a movie theater, a library, or a family member’s or friend’s house. In many communities, senior centers, churches, and social service organizations provide cooling centers when the temperatures rise. If you aren’t running your air conditioning because you need help paying your utility bill, resources may be available to you. Go to
https://cignacommunity.findhelp.com/ and enter your ZIP code to learn about programs that are available in your community.
Make sure to hydrate. Drink more water than usual. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink. Avoid drinks containing alcohol.
Dress for the heat. Wear light, loose-fitting clothes in light colors.
Don’t overdo it. Limit strenuous activity. Take frequent breaks. Move slowly.
Remember to apply sunscreen. The majority of skin cancer cases are found in people older than 65. Also, sunburned skin makes it more difficult for your body to cool down. To reduce risk, you should use a sunscreen of 30 SPF or higher that the label says “blocks UVA and UVB” or has the words “broad spectrum.” Reapply every two hours.
Avoid the hottest part of the day. It’s safer to go out in the morning or the evening.
Monitor your medications. Some widely used medicines, including some available without a prescription, may affect your body’s ability to control its temperature or to sweat. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have concerns.
If you become overheated, take action right away. Go to a cool place, rest, and drink plenty of water. Symptoms of heat-related illness include muscle cramps, headaches, nausea, and vomiting. If symptoms like these don’t go away or get worse, seek medical care.
In closing, Dr. Sobel advises caregivers to stay vigilant during hot weather and check on loved ones regularly. If you don’t live close to your loved one, make sure to have the name and number of a neighbor you can contact if needed.
For information about Cigna Healthcare email me at [email protected] or call me at 405-432-6725.
Cigna Corporation is a global health service company dedicated to improving the health, well-being, and peace of mind of those we serve. Cigna delivers choice, predictability, affordability, and access to quality care through integrated capabilities and connected, personalized solutions that advance whole person health. All products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of Cigna Corporation, including Cigna Health and Life Insurance Company, Connecticut General Life Insurance Company, Evernorth companies or their affiliates, and Express Scripts companies or their affiliates. Such products and services include an integrated suite of health services, such as medical, dental, behavioral health, pharmacy, vision, supplemental benefits, and other related products.
Cigna maintains sales capability in over 30 countries and jurisdictions, and has more than 190 million customer relationships around the world. To learn more about Cigna®, including links to follow us on Facebook or Twitter, visit www.cigna.com © 2022 Cigna
The information contained in this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen.

By Nick Thomas

Fans of Donny Osmond won’t have to travel to Las Vegas to experience the singer’s long-running popular stage show currently headlining at Harrah’s Casino. The 70s teen idol begins his summer tour in July, his first in almost seven years (see www.donny.com for cities and dates).
“I’m taking it across the country for people who can’t get to Las Vegas,” said Osmond from Las Vegas. “I’m bringing the entire company – singers, dancers, musicians, and a full video production. I’m really looking forward to it because I was born on the road!”
While longtime fans remember Osmond as part of the Osmond family singers, not to mention the “Donny & Marie” variety show from the 70s, the “Donny & Marie” daytime talk show in the late 90s, and a string of musical theater roles on Broadway, Osmond has continued to reinvent himself to keep up with changing times.
He hosted a TV game show (“Pyramid”) in the early 2000s, was a runner-up in the first season of Fox’s “The Masked Singer” in 2019, and won season 9 of ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars” a decade earlier.
“That was probably the hardest thing I’ve ever done in my life,” he said. “And to win the trophy was probably one of my favorite accolades.”
For the Utah native, those accolades began at the age of five when he joined four of his brothers in 1963 on “The Andy Williams Show” singing his debut song “Yes Sir, That’s My Baby” on Williams’s lap. Later in the program, he belted out his first solo performance on television, “You Are My Sunshine.”
“I remember doing the show and have a lot of respect for that man because he gave me my start,” recalled Osmond. “In fact, I do a duo with Andy Williams singing ‘Moon River’ on the big screen behind me in the show. It’s become a very emotional part of the evening and people tell me quite a tearjerker. It’s included in my rap song that looks back on my career.”
Wait, the kid who tore up the pop charts in the early 70s with hit singles such as “Go Away Little Girl,” “Puppy Love,” and “Too Young,” not to mention recording 65 albums over his career, does rap?
“I sure do,” said Osmond laughing. “It’s become one of the most popular parts of my show where I do a 10-minute rap in front of a big screen video projection outlining my six-decade career.”
Like many entertainers, Osmond’s career had its low points and these are not excluded from his biographical rap review. “I did one Broadway show that opened and closed on the same day!”
Another favorite Osmond song for younger fans is “I’ll Make a Man Out of You” from Disney’s 1998 film “Mulan.” While appearing in a Chicago stage production of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” Osmond was spotted by Disney and asked to join the vocal cast for their new animated feature.
“We turn the whole theater into a ‘Milan’ moment with a 6-minute full production number including a stick fighting dance on stage and my character, Captain Shang, on the big screen behind me,” said Osmond. “I had no idea the song would become a Disney classic.” Currently, the YouTube video of the song has over 160 million views and may still be a hit with the grandkids.
Of course, not everyone is a Donny Osmond fan and the 65-year-old singer often chuckles when he looks out into the audience during a show.
“Recently, there was a bearded guy in the front row who looked like one of those Grateful Dead Deadheads and by his attitude I could tell his wife had dragged him to the concert!” laughed Osmond. “But at the end of the show, he was the first on his feet to give me a standing ovation. So it’s very satisfying to win over people like that. I’m sure audiences on the summer tour will not only enjoy the music but learn about what I’ve accomplished over my six-decade career.”

Nick Thomas teaches at Auburn University at Montgomery, Ala, and has written features, columns, and interviews for numerous magazines and newspapers. See https://www.getnickt.org/.

LEGEND SENIOR LIVING® ANNOUNCES NAME CHANGE OF OKC’S LIONWOOD TO “ACCLAIM INDEPENDENT LIVING”

Legend Senior Living announced today that it is changing the name
of Lionwood Independent Living to Acclaim Independent Living. Legend Senior Living, a family-owned senior living provider headquartered in Wichita, KS, manages the residence and owns and operates nearly
50 other Legend and Windsor residences in six states. Acclaim, at 12525 N. Pennsylvania Ave., is one of ten Legend residences in Oklahoma.
“’Acclaim’ better captures the feeling of vibrant Independent Living that Legend is known for,” said Paul Hansen, Legend’s Vice President of Marketing, explaining the name change. “The focus at Acclaim is
Legend’s trademark independent lifestyle with emphasis on social interaction, wellness, and providing a stress-free, carefree life to allow more time to explore new interests, enjoy family, and live a vibrant life
Oklahoma’s seniors are looking for.” As with other Legend Independent Living residences, Acclaim is a pets-welcome residence featuring beautiful amenities and services for a total neighborhood experience, including chef-prepared meals, freedom from home maintenance, and weekly housekeeping. Residents enjoy on-site common areas and lounges, lush landscaping in courtyards and gardens, game rooms, a beauty salon, and a library.
“Acclaim is near restaurants, shopping, and other attractions important to an active lifestyle,” said Hansen. “Residents ‘acclaim’ the Legend concept of fun, friends, and life at its fullest. The new name is the natural fit.”
Legend Senior Living® is a privately held senior housing and services company based in Wichita, Kansas, and owns and operates nearly 50 independent living, assisted living, memory care, and personal care residences in Florida, Colorado, Texas, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Pennsylvania. Legend has been certified as a Great Place to Work® for the fifth time and recognized as one of Fortune Magazine’s Top 25 Senior Living companies in the country and is a Top 50 senior living provider.

By Megan Brown, Navy Office of Community Outreach

Submariners make up only 10 percent of the U.S. Navy’s personnel, but they play a critical role in carrying out one of the Defense Department’s most important missions: strategic deterrence. Senior Chief Petty Officer Steven Dotson, a native of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, is one of the sailors continuing a 123-year tradition of service under the sea to help ensure Americans’ safety.
Dotson joined the Navy 17 years ago and today serves as a missile technician aboard USS Maryland.
“I joined the Navy because I was unsure about college and I knew the military would help prepare me for life,” said Dotson.
Growing up in Oklahoma City, Dotson attended Frederick Douglas High School and graduated in 2005.
Skills and values similar to those found in Oklahoma City are similar to those required to succeed in the military.

“My hometown taught me to have a positive attitude and hard work ethic,” said Dotson.
These lessons have helped Dotson while serving in the Navy.
Known as America’s “Apex Predators!,” the Navy’s submarine force operates a large fleet of technically-advanced vessels. These submarines are capable of conducting rapid defensive and offensive operations around the world, in furtherance of U.S. national security.
There are three basic types of submarines: fast-attack submarines (SSN), ballistic-missile submarines (SSBN) and guided-missile submarines (SSGN).
Fast-attack submarines are designed to hunt down and destroy enemy submarines and surface ships; strike targets ashore with cruise missiles; carry and deliver Navy SEALs; conduct intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions; and engage in mine warfare. The Virginia-class SSN is the most advanced submarine in the world today. It combines stealth and payload capability to meet Combatant Commanders’ demands in this era of strategic competition.
The Navy’s ballistic-missile submarines, often referred to as “boomers,” serve as a strategic deterrent by providing an undetectable platform for submarine-launched ballistic missiles. SSBNs are designed specifically for stealth, extended patrols and the precise delivery of missiles. The Columbia-class SSBN will be the largest, most capable and most advanced submarine produced by the U.S. – replacing the current Ohio-class ballistic-missile submarines to ensure continuous sea-based strategic deterrence into the 2080s.
Guided-missile submarines provide the Navy with unprecedented strike and special operation mission capabilities from a stealthy, clandestine platform. Each SSGN is capable of carrying 154 Tomahawk cruise missiles, plus a complement of heavyweight torpedoes to be fired through four torpedo tubes.
“Our mission remains timeless – to provide our fellow citizens with nothing less than the very best Navy: fully combat ready at all times, focused on warfighting excellence, and committed to superior leadership at every single level,” said Adm. Mike Gilday, Chief of Naval Operations. “This is our calling. And I cannot imagine a calling more worthy.”
Strategic deterrence is the Nation’s ultimate insurance program, according to Navy officials. As a member of the submarine force, Dotson is part of a rich history of the U.S. Navy’s most versatile weapons platform, capable of taking the fight to the enemy in the defense of America and its allies.
Serving in the Navy means Dotson is part of a team that is taking on new importance in America’s focus on strengthening alliances, modernizing capabilities, increasing capacities and maintaining military readiness in support of the National Defense Strategy.
“The Navy provides a blanket of freedom for our citizens, one fabric at a time,” said Dotson.
With 90 percent of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to trained sailors and a strong Navy.
Dotson and the sailors they serve with have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.
“I am proud of making the rank of chief petty officer,” said Dotson. “A lot of individuals poured into me so I could have that achievement.”
As Dotson and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.
“Serving in the Navy means I can provide for my family and thatI can serve my junior sailors,” added Dotson.