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 – Flora.qualls@cignahealthcare.com

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 Flora.qualls@cignahealthcare.com 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.

Legend Senior Living®, a Top 50 senior living company, is pleased to announce it has earned the certification as a Great Place to Work®. This is the fifth time that Legend has earned the certification, based on a yearly third-party, anonymous survey of employees. Legend Senior Living, a family-owned senior living provider, owns and operates nearly 50 Legend and Windsor residences in six states.
The Great Place to Work® Certification is awarded to organizations that deliver excellent employee experiences and demonstrate best-in-class people practices based on a rigorous assessment process. The assessment is based on the Great Place to Work® model, which evaluates a workplace based on its Trust Index® and Culture Audit® attributes. Based on the Great Place to Work® Institute assessment, Legend scored exceedingly well on creating a positive culture and workplace.
“Being named a Great Place to Work is always a cause for celebration at Legend,” said Legend’s Executive Vice President Matt Buchanan. “We are humbled to receive the certification for the fifth time because it affirms our commitment to enabling associates to thrive professionally and personally.”
Certification is based on an objective survey of employees’ opinions. Because employee feedback and independent analysis determine the scores, Great Place to Work Certification is considered a reliable, objective measurement of employer performance and employee satisfaction. An audit is also taken to evaluate Legend’s culture, measuring trust, values, leadership effectiveness, innovation, development, and diversity.
According to Great Place To Work survey results, 82% of employees at Legend Senior Living say it is a great place to work compared to 57% of employees at a typical U.S.-based company. Nine Legend locations specifically achieved a 90% or higher Trust Index. To learn more about Legend’s Great Place to Work certification results go to
https://www.greatplacetowork.com/certified-company/7010287.
“The senior living industry is one that offers job satisfaction unlike any other,” said Buchanan. “The opportunities for longevity and growth for associates all while serving people is unmatched. This certification re-affirms those strengths for an industry that will see unprecedented growth in the coming years.”
For more information about joining Legend Senior Living in Oklahoma, visit https://jobs.lslcareers.com/jobs
Legend Senior Living® is a privately held senior housing and services company based in Wichita, Kansas. Legend grows the number of properties it owns and operates every year, now approaching 50 – independent living, assisted living, memory care, and personal care – in Florida, Colorado, Texas, Kansas, Oklahoma and Pennsylvania.

by Greg Schwem

Try as they may, the folks overseeing Pat Sajak’s final appearance as “Wheel of Fortune” host will have a tall order keeping it under wraps before it actually airs.
Maybe the leaker will be a fed-up camera operator, anxious for payback after years of having to zoom in on Sajak’s changing hair color. Or a researcher, forced to log extra hours after Sajak rejected all of her “Around the House” puzzles. Maybe Vanna White herself has been waiting for revenge after Sajak asked, in a 2022 episode, if she had ever watched opera “in the buff.”
Regardless, one can just feel like Sajak, after deciding to call it quits next year, in what will be his 41st season (no, that’s not a misprint), will snap — perhaps multiple times — before his last bonus round. Fans of the show should be prepared for anything and everything, from the moment Sajak takes the stage.
“Well, here we are everybody. After doing this since the year Reagan got shot, it’s our last episode. Vanna, are you ready?”
“I’m ready Pat. Truthfully, I’m kind of emotional.”
“Me too. Actually, I’ve been crying every night since they canceled my talk show.”
“’Bosom Buddies’ lasted longer, Pat.”
“It also lasted longer than the time it takes you to reveal two ‘Ds,’ Vanna. Speaking of double Ds, let’s meet our first contestant. Hi, Cheryl.”
“Hi, Pat.”
“Where are you from, Cheryl?”
“The great state of Georgia!”
“Ahh, yes. Say hi to Marjorie Taylor Greene for me. Wow, you take one selfie with her, and you find out how liberal your audience is. OK, Cheryl, the category is ‘Food and Drink,’ both of which are going to taste amazing in about 30 minutes. One of them has been in my back pocket since 2017. Care to guess Vanna?”
“I wouldn’t know, Pat.”
“That’s why you’re over there and I’m here. Cheryl, spin the wheel.”
“Come on $1,000!”
“Clapping doesn’t help Cheryl. Haven’t you ever watched the show? See? $250. Pick a letter.
“I’d like an ‘M’ please.
“There’s one ‘M.’”
“I’d like to buy a vowel.”
“That’s a shocker.”
“An ‘A’ please?”
“Four A’s. Vanna is going to have to do some jogging. Hey, Vanna, do you ever jog in the buff? While listening to opera?”
“Here’s two letters I’m going to reveal to you, Pat. HR. As in Human Resources.”
“Wouldn’t be the first time. Cheryl, what do you want to do?”
“I’ll spin, Pat.”
“You do that. Oh wow, bankrupt. Kind of like this show after I leave. Contestant number two, David. It says you’re a high school teacher. What do you teach?”
“I teach English, Pat.”
“We could have used you on this show, Dave. Hey, Vanna, remember that college kid who couldn’t pronounce ‘Achilles’? Wonder where that kid is now? Probably teaching English, like Dave here. OK, Dave, spin.”
“Pat, can I buy another vowel?”
“Oh, for the love of Merv Griffin. You’re not even gonna try? Fine, buy a vowel.
“An ‘I’ please.
“Two I’s, as in ‘This puzzle is so easy, Dave should be able to solve it with two eyes closed.’ What do you think, Dave?”
“I’ll spin, Pat.”
“Fine, be greedy. Oh, wow, ‘lose a turn.’ Hope you enjoyed your moment in the spotlight, Dave. Contestant number three, Sarah. You want to say hi to a special someone?”
“Yes, my mother who is 93, retired and living in Florida.”
“Great, Sarah. Thanks for saying ‘hi’ to three quarters of our viewing audience. Please tell me you’re not going to buy a vowel.”
“No, I’ll spin Pat.”
“Seven fifty.”
“An ‘R.’”
“Two Rs. Now we’re cooking.”
“Pat, I’d like to solve the puzzle.”
“Go for it. Sarah.”
“Margarita with sand!”
(ABRUPT FADE TO BLACK. CUT TO PENSIVE SHOT OF RYAN SEACREST HAVING SECOND THOUGHTS)
(Greg Schwem is a corporate stand-up comedian and author of two books: “Text Me If You’re Breathing: Observations, Frustrations and Life Lessons From a Low-Tech Dad” and the recently released “The Road To Success Goes Through the Salad Bar: A Pile of BS From a Corporate Comedian,” available at https://www.amazon.com/. Visit Greg on the web at https://www.gregschwem.com/.
You’ve enjoyed reading, and laughing at, Greg Schwem’s monthly humor columns in Senior Living News. But did you know Greg is also a nationally touring stand-up comedian? And he loves to make audiences laugh about the joys, and frustrations, of growing older. Watch the clip and, if you’d like Greg to perform at your senior center or senior event, contact him through his website at https://www.gregschwem.com/)

Braum’s donated half a million dollars to fund a new space to safely store and prepare breast milk for hospitalized infants in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at Mercy Hospital Oklahoma City.
Moms will be able to deliver milk for their babies directly to the Braum’s Milk Room, staffed by certified milk technicians who will prepare the milk for Mercy’s NICU patients. The room will be a central place for storage and preparation of both human milk and formula. It will also be a designated location for parents to check-in milk to be labeled and stored for their newborn.
“Providing breast milk for their baby is one of the few tangible thing moms can do when they have a preemie in the NICU,” said Brandy Chaney, manager of Mercy’s NICU in Oklahoma City. “We just didn’t have the space before, so our nursing team prepared milk feedings at the bedside or in a dedicated workroom. The milk room will be such an asset to everyone involved in caring for our tiny babies.”
The Braum’s Milk Room is part of the larger Love Family Women’s Center project that will provide more space, resources and care for women of all ages. More than 40%, or $45 million, of the total cost of the new women’s center was funded through philanthropy, with a $10 million lead donation from the Tom and Judy Love family.
When a donor was needed to fund the milk room, Braum’s, an Oklahoma company, seemed like a perfect fit.
“Braum’s has been providing milk for Oklahoma families for more than 50 years, and when we approached them about funding a project to create a milk room for our most vulnerable patients, we were so delighted when it was a quick ‘yes,’” said Lori Cummins, vice president of Mercy Health Foundation Communities. “The support from the Braum family and so many others will impact generations to come as we prepare to welcome more Oklahomans into the world at the Love Family Women’s Center.”
The project will create a more streamlined process allowing nurses to focus on patient care while a dedicated team prepares feedings. This type of facility is considered best practice for caring for the nutritional needs of infants needing a higher level of care.
“When the team at Mercy approached Braum’s about helping fund the milk room, I knew it was a fantastic addition to the monumental Love Family Women’s Center project,” said Drew Braum, president and chief executive officer of Braum’s. “For many, Braum’s is synonymous with milk. While we produce high-quality, nutritious A2 dairy milk on our farm, Mercy will use the Braum’s Milk Room to develop the correct formulation of human milk and formula to meet the nutritional needs of all infants, especially those admitted into the NICU. We are honored to partner with Mercy and the Love Family Women’s Center to bring this critical element of care to Oklahoma City.”

Ralph Alva Derrington was born in Columbus, Ohio Aug. 6, 1899 and served as a Chief Machinist’s Mate on board the USS Oklahoma (BB 37).
Derrington died during the Dec. 7th attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941.
As a Chief Machinist’s Mate, Derrington’s duties were to operate, maintain, and repair main and auxiliary engines, steering engines, anchor machinery, turbines, pumps, and related equipment; adjust, repair, and overhaul engines, drainage systems, distilling plants, evaporators and pumps; supervise and stand watch in engine rooms.
Derrington’s awards and decorations include Purple Heart Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal (4), American Defense Service Medal (with Fleet Clasp), Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal (with Bronze Star), World War II Victory Medal and the American Campaign Medal.
Chief Machinist’s Mate Ralph Derrington was buried with full military honors in the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, Honolulu, Hawaii, on June 20.

A comprehensive safety plan is important for a person living with Alzheimer’s.
Taking measures to improve safety can prevent injuries and help a person living with dementia feel at ease and maintain independence longer.
Safety at Home: * Evaluate certain areas that may be more prone to safety hazards such as garages, work rooms or basements. * Take precautions to avoid injuries during daily activities such as ensuring food is not too hot, install walk-in showers, or add texture stickers to slippery surfaces. * Ensure all areas are well lit. * Evaluate potentially dangerous objects to make sure they are not easily accessible, i.e. stoves or power tools. * Keep medication and harmful substances locked away. * Consider removing weapons from the home. * Learn how to help prevent falls at https://Oklahoma.gov/health/falls
Wandering and Getting Lost: * Six in 10 people living with dementia will wander and become lost; many do so repeatedly. Signs of wandering behavior: * Forgetting familiar places. * Returning from walks or drives later than usual. * Trying to “go home” when already at home. * Having a hard time locating familiar places. * Experiencing restlessness.
Tips to reduce wandering: * Provide opportunities to engage in structured activities throughout the day. * Encourage exercise. * Place deadbolts high or low on exterior doors to prevent wandering at night. * Consider a GPS device if the person drives. * Reassure the person if he or she feels lost, abandoned or disoriented.
Driving Safety: Driving demands good judgement and quick reaction time. Because of the progressive nature of Alzheimer’s, a person living with the disease will eventually become unable to drive. It’s helpful to have a conversation early on about how independence can be maintained when the person can no longer drive. Signs it may be time to stop driving: * Forgetting familiar places. * Making poor driving decisions such as speeding or missing traffic signals. * Becoming angry or confused while driving.
Emergency Preparedness: Disaster situations can significantly impact everyone’s safety, but they can be especially upsetting and confusing for individuals living with dementia. Being prepared for an emergency is crucial. Prepare an emergency kit that includes: * Copies of important documents. * Extra clothes and medication. * Incontinence products if needed. * Identification items. * Water and food. * A favorite item of the person.
If an emergency occurs and you need to evacuate, make sure your plans are compatible with the specific needs of the person living with dementia. If an individual lives in a residential facility, learn about its disaster and evacuation plans. Find out who is responsible for evacuating the person in the event of an emergency.
Traveling: A dementia diagnosis does not necessarily mean that it’s time to stop traveling; however, doing so does require careful planning. The following may help facilitate a safe and enjoyable trip: * Pack copies of important documents. * Stick to a familiar destination. * If staying in a hotel consider informing staff about your specific needs. * Contact the Alzheimer’s Association to find the nearest office that can provide assistance at your travel destination.
Staying safe becomes increasingly important as Alzheimer’s disease progresses. Visit alz.org/safety for more information and resources.
This publication was issued by the Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH), an equal opportunity employer and provider. 2,000 copies were printed by Quickprint at a cost of $721.39. A digital file is available for download at documents.ok.gov / September 2022