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.

From June 5th through June 15th, Daily Living Centers hosted its first ever Art Auction to fundraise for a $15,000 matching grant, generously pledged by the Carl C. Anderson Sr. and Marie Jo Anderson Charitable Foundation! Our participants spent weeks hand crafting pieces, while practicing skills of patience, dexterity, creativity, and self expression.
With the help of our amazing community partners, sponsors, and even friends and family of DLC participants and staff, the Art Auction brought in resources for our Activities and Programming far beyond what we could have hoped for. We are so thankful for your support as we work to better serve our participants and their caregivers. These funds will be matched to go towards activities and programming that fit the needs and preferences of each individual that we serve.
With your generous support, our grand total is $4,000! Thank you to all of the donors who made this event such a success! – Amanda Dirmeyer, President and CEO

House Bill 2753 was recently passed by the OK Legislature and on May 11, 2023 it was signed into law by Governor Stitt.
The bill came about due to the efforts an advocacy of Dr. Chalon Edwards Anderson, a gerontologist and member of the Oklahoma Silver Haired Legislature (OSHL). She sought and secured the support of Representative Nicole Miller and Senator Darrell Weaver who supported and carried the bill to the Oklahoma House of Representatives and State Senate.
House Bill 2753 creates a Vulnerable Adult Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation Registry, (a searchable database). Once implemented, the registry will be accessible by the public and will include the names of those convicted in Oklahoma of abuse, neglect or exploitation of vulnerable adults, along with details of their offenses. The law goes into effect on November1, 2023.
The bill received the strong and relentless support of Esther Houser, president of the OSHL, and Trish Emig, of the OK Council on Aging. Both are dedicated long-time state advocates for the aging community. It was also supported by the Oklahoma Alliance on Aging, the Oklahoma State Council on Aging, the Oklahoma affiliate of American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), and the OSHL Alumni.
This will truly be a tool to aid families when selecting individuals to care for their loved ones. It will also help nursing homes and other similar facilities avoid employing unqualified and undesirable individuals to care for their residents or patients.

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.

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.

The Sod House Museum is selling raffle tickets ahead of the drawing for a handmade sampler quilt. The drawing will be held on Saturday, July 8. Tickets for the raffle are $2 each, or three for $5, or six for $10. You can purchase tickets at the museum, which is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
The drawing will be held during the quilting workshop with instructor Martha Ray from 9-11 a.m. The workshop costs $5 per person. Ray teaches participants how to create applique designs, traditional block patterns, original designs and more. Members of any skill level are encouraged to attend.
Operated by the Oklahoma Historical Society, the museum is located southeast of Aline on State Highway 8. For more information, contact Director Renee Trindle at 580-463-2441 or email [email protected].
The Sod House Museum is a division of the Oklahoma Historical Society. The mission of the Oklahoma Historical Society is to collect, preserve and share the history and culture of the state of Oklahoma and its people. Founded in 1893 by members of the Territorial Press Association, the OHS maintains museums, historic sites and affiliates across the state. Through its research archives, exhibits, educational programs and publications the OHS chronicles the rich history of Oklahoma. For more information about the OHS, please visit https://www.okhistory.org/.

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/

Across
1 Reminders of past surgeries
6 Starting squad
11 Lousy
14 Three-time WNBA All-Star Quigley
15 Scrapbook adhesive
16 Deeply regret
17 *Important figure in sports betting
19 Ideological suffix
20 Loafer adornment
21 Isn’t honest with
23 Cherry bomb’s “stem”
24 *Party pooper
27 Twistable cookies
29 Sailor’s realm
30 “Chicago” actor Richard
31 Consequence
33 Adapter letters
36 Journalist Koppel
37 *Record submitted to payroll
40 Yoga surface
43 White part of a citrus rind
44 Marshy ground
48 Guinness who was the first to play Obi-Wan Kenobi
50 “Chicago P.D.” extra
52 Region of ancient Mesopotamia
53 *Paper for doodling
57 Pixar film featuring a guitar-playing boy
58 Force into action
59 Chair for a new parent
61 Sushi-grade tuna
62 Does a daily chore using the elements at the ends of the answers to the starred clues
66 Turn bad
67 Show to be true
68 Mighty mad
69 Sudsy quaff
70 Softens
71 Donkeys

Down
1 Sticky tree stuff
2 Debate-ending procedure in the Senate
3 False names
4 Wash lightly
5 Adjusts, as a clock
6 Fruit for cider
7 Sticky roofing stuff
8 Language suffix
9 In any way
10 “On the __”: NPR show about trends in journalism
11 Cut of meat used for corned beef
12 Stark
13 Reduced in rank
18 Use needle and thread
22 U.K. language
23 Word on a gift tag
25 Spot for steeped beverages
26 Composer J.S. __
28 Lingerie item
32 “OMG! Stop talking!”
34 FDR or JFK, partywise
35 Corporate VIPs
38 Engrave
39 Folks who are in it for the long haul?
40 Lash lengthener
41 Hand sanitizer ingredient
42 Wood-eating insect
45 Single-celled creatures
46 Stash away
47 “No seats” sign
49 Lens cover
51 Analyzes grammatically
54 Phoenix suburb
55 American Red Cross founder Barton
56 Small speck
60 Seed in some healthy smoothies
63 Bout enders, briefly
64 Night before
65 __ Moines, Iowa

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.”