The longest, hardest 1.5 miles I’ve ever walked!
But one of the most rewarding.
We stopped at this National Park in northern New Mexico on our way home during a family road trip to Colorado.
My travelling partner kept saying, “Oh, it’s a quick, easy little hike. We’ll stop for an hour or so and you can see.”
And it was gorgeous! Not that easy though. Halfway up the 300’ climb I was huffing like I’d been on the StairMaster for too long already.
But there was so much natural beauty along the way it was so worth it.
The view from the top is incredible. You can see for miles and easily imagine cattle on the Sante Fe Trail driving through to Raton Pass and far off to the left you could even see Black Mesa in Oklahoma.
The knarly juniper trees have a special attraction to me and the lichens along the rocks, mixed in among vegetation, are impressive.
ABOUT THE TRAIL
The Rim Trail of Capulin Volcano offers stunning views in all directions. The mile-long trail gains 305 feet of elevation above the parking lot, with a 12% grade and provides views of the crater and the surrounding volcanic landscape.
The vent trail is .2 mile down to the bottom of the crater with an elevation change of 105 feet. IF YOU GO
Capulin is located between Raton and Des Moines on Hwys 64 and 87 in northern New Mexico. The monument is a few miles north. Check the website for hours of operations and other information www.nps.gov/cavo/index.htm
Played by Del Humphreys last year as a naturally bearded Santa, Santa is available for visitors to get their free photos taken during the two days of the show.
Story and photos by Darl DeVault
Contributing Editor
Linda Turner will reprise her role as Mrs. Claus to speak with children and have her photo taken.
To give customers more time to anticipate Christmas, the 15th Annual Santa Market Craft Show will move two weekends into November, Friday the 22nd and Saturday the 23rd, at the Pavilion Building at the OKC Fairgrounds. This shift to earlier dates will create a vibrant and festive atmosphere, sure to get shoppers in the holiday spirit.
The Market is Oklahoma City’s premiere free, two-day showcase for one-of-a-kind, Christmas-themed creations benefiting the Alzheimer’s Association of Oklahoma.
“We work to organize this show all year,” co-founder Molly Nye said. “It is a true labor of love and helps all of us by doing something positive to combat Alzheimer’s Disease.” If anyone would like to be involved by volunteering, donating an item or service for the auction, or an item for the Alzheimer’s booth, please contact Joan Clarke at 405-314-1033.
As one of Oklahoma’s most extensive free-admission, nonprofit arts and crafts shows, the festive shopping experience will feature 180+ carefully chosen, creative vendors selling their unique and diverse products. Organizers say this is a shopping experience you won’t want to miss.
The Market offers free parking, a silent auction, and more. It is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on both days. Handcrafted items are available for all shoppers’ seasonal gift needs at an event that raised $43,000 last year for Alzheimer’s work. Since its inception up to this October, the Market has raised $313,464 for the cause.
Visitors are encouraged to bring their children to have free photos taken all day with Santa, Del Humphreys, an International Brotherhood of Real Bearded Santas member. Visitors can also speak with Mrs. Claus, Linda Turner. Organizers say The Grinch himself will be there this year.”
Shoppers may purchase a wide variety of Christmas-themed home décor. This includes hand-painted ornaments, festive wreaths, and homemade arts and crafts such as knitted scarves and unique pottery. Boutique and holiday items, jewelry, children’s clothes, books, and food goodies are also available. The first 1,000 visitors receive free shopping bags sponsored by local businesses.
Joan Clarke, Molly and Megan Nye began the event in 2010 after Joan’s husband died of Alzheimer’s in 2007. Their shared goal was to support the charity addressing one of America’s most challenging diseases. They invite shoppers to join them in this meaningful cause, becoming part of the community of support.
“Molly and I had been selling items at craft shows for years, and we decided to start our own event. We booked a small room in a hotel and started with 17 vendors,” Clarke said. “By the time our third year began, we realized how much work putting on a quality show involves, so we decided to make it a fundraiser. Molly immediately suggested Alzheimer’s since Joan lost her husband and Megan lost her father to the terrible disease. These personal experiences drive our commitment to the cause and inspire us to make The Santa Market Craft Show a success each year.”
Over the years, the number of vendors, attendees, and funds raised has grown tremendously, which is a testament to the community’s support and the event’s impact.
Every dollar raised at the Market goes directly to the Alzheimer’s Association, a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization. These funds support crucial research, care, and support efforts, making a tangible difference in the fight against Alzheimer’s. Your participation and support are vital, and all donations are tax-deductible, empowering you to be part of this meaningful cause and see the impact of your contribution on Alzheimer’s research.
“Our excellent vendors make this show what it is each year. We are one big family; everyone helps promote the show, advertise, and find new vendors. They donate to our cause, monetarily and with their products, even though it’s voluntary,” Clarke said. “They help with set up, clean up and everything in between. We have three vendors that have been with us all 14 years. Countless more have been with us for 5, 8, or even 10 years. One vendor named it ‘The Greatest Show on Earth,’ and it truly is.”
The organizers limit the number of crafters’ assigned spaces. Clarke says It is not about turning away new vendors but only allowing a limited number of each type of vendor. They wish they could take everyone, but having a variety makes for a better shopping experience, and the vendors have a much better chance of success. “We strive to ensure a diverse range of products and crafts, so our selection process is based on the uniqueness and quality of the items,” Clark said.
Clarke says some vendors see the event as an opportunity to make sure their favorite charity receives as much as possible from their craft world and them personally. By writing personal checks to the Alzheimer’s Association when The Santa Market rolls around, these vendors do their part to help. They also donate products and gift certificates to the Alzheimer’s auction and booth.
The Santa Market promoted the show at the annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s on November 2 in downtown OKC. Clarke and her family have walked every year since 2003. Held annually in more than 600 communities nationwide, Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research.
National presenting sponsor Edward Jones is in its ninth consecutive year helping to make the walks successful. Biogen and Eisai are also national sponsors. Santa Market fielded a team for the walk.
Nearly 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease in the United States. Additionally, more than 11 million family members and friends provide care to people living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias.
In July 2024, the FDA approved Kisunla (Donanemab), a drug that can help treat early Alzheimer’s disease. The medicine is administered intravenously every four weeks. In clinical trials, Donanemab slowed memory and thinking decline by 20-60 percent and slowed daily activity decline by 40 percent.
The organizers attribute The Market’s successful 14 years to the invaluable contributions of quality vendors, loyal customers, volunteers, sponsors, and donors. They consider everyone involved part of the Santa Market Family and hope for their continued support to make this year’s event a resounding success. This year, organizers are proud Steve Eldridge, Senior News & Living and Oklahoma Nursing Times publisher, is again a Diamond Sponsor. For more info, visit www.thesantamarket.org.
The Health Insurance Marketplace in Oklahoma is set to open for the 2025 coverage year on Nov. 1, 2024. Individuals and families can enroll in, re-enroll in or make changes to their individual health insurance plans starting at that time. Key Dates to Remember: Nov. 1, 2024: Open Enrollment Commences
• Starting Nov. 1, you can explore the various health insurance options available through the Marketplace in Oklahoma. This is your chance to find a plan that best suits your needs and budget. Dec. 15, 2024: Deadline for Coverage Starting on Jan. 1, 2025
• To ensure your health coverage begins on Jan. 1, 2025, enroll or make any plan changes by Dec. 15, 2024, to avoid a coverage gap.
Seven insurers will offer individual health plans for 2025 – Blue Cross Blue Shield of Oklahoma (BCBSOK), Medica Insurance Company, Oscar Health, UnitedHealthcare (UHC), CommunityCare Oklahoma (CCOK), Ambetter of Oklahoma (Celtic Ins. Co.) and Taro Health. BCBSOK will offer a statewide plan, while the other insurers’ plans will be available in selected counties. These insurers will provide a range of health plans tailored to Oklahoma residents’ diverse needs. You will also find Dental Plans offered in the state on https://www.healthcare.gov.
“Now is the time to review you and your family’s needs to secure the best coverage that meets those needs,” Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready said. “Visit healthcare.gov as soon as you can to find the plan that fits best.”
Mulready added that healthcare costs are continuing to rise as demand increases and says it’s more important now than ever that people are properly insured. Last year, over 269,600 Oklahomans who renewed or purchased plans during open enrollment averaged $71 monthly premium cost after federal subsidies.
Plan options, monthly premiums and total annual out-of-pocket costs for 2025 will be available later this month when the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services release this information at https://www.healthcare.gov/see-plans/#.
Dear Savvy Senior, Can you recommend some good pill boxes and medication reminding devices? I’ve recently started taking several new prescription medications along with some vitamins I normally take and need to get a pill box that helps me organize them. What can you tell me? Almost 70
Dear Almost,
Pill boxes (a.k.a. pill organizers) play an important role in keeping people healthy because they help you stay on top of your medication regimen. While there are many options, here are a few tips to help you choose, along with some top-rated pill boxes as recommended by expert reviewers. Identify Your Needs?
When choosing an appropriate pill box for you, you first need to ask yourself a few questions, such as:
1. How many pills do you take and how big are they? If you take only a few medications, a smaller pill box may be sufficient. But if you’re taking multiple medications and large vitamin supplements, you’ll want to get a large compartment pill box that can hold your daily dosage.
2. Do you take your pills once a day or multiple times a day? If you take medications only once a day, a simple pill box with one compartment will do. But if you need to take medications multiple times a day, you’ll want to get a pill box with either two, three or four compartments for each day of the week.
3. Do you have problems remembering to take your medications? If so, there are organizers that have built-in alarms and reminding features, or you can download a free medication reminding app on your smartphone.
4. Do you have a difficult time opening your medication containers? If so, there are easy-open pill boxes or automated medication dispensers that are ideal for those with dexterity problems.
5. Do you need a portable pill box for when you’re away from home? There are smaller portable pill boxes made for traveling, some of which have sealed-shut cases that prevent moisture and dust from entering. Best Pill Boxes
With help from The New York Times (Wirecutter) and USA Today (Reviewed), some of the best pill boxes in 2024 are offered by Auvon and Sukuos which make a variety of single and multiple compartment pill organizers that are big, colorful and easy to open.
Their top-rated options include the “Auvon Weekly Pill Organizer” for once-a-day medication users; “Sukuos AM/PM Weekly 7 Day Pill Organizer” for twice a day use; “Auvon iMedassist Moisture-Proof Weekly Pill Organizer” for four times a day; and the “Auvon Moistureproof Monthly Pill Organizer” for those who want to organize their medications monthly.
Or, if you’re interested in a travel pill box, the “MUchengbao Travel Pill Organizer” is considered an excellent choice.
All of these pill boxes cost around $10 and are available on Amazon.com or Walmart.com. High-Tech Pill Organizers
If you need more help keeping up with your medication regimen, there are smart pill boxes that will organize your pills, remind you to take them, track your progress and even text or email caregivers if pills are missed. A popular option to consider here is EllieGrid (elliegrid.com, $149), which connects the pill box to the EllieGrid app (via Bluetooth) that you would install on your smartphone.
Or if you need even more help, there are automated medication dispensers like the Hero (herohealth.com, $45 per month), which is a comprehensive, Wi-Fi connected, app-based system that will remind you when to take your pills and dispenses them to you. Medication Reminding Apps
If you’re interested in a medication reminding app, some top-rated choices include MyTherapy (mytherapyapp.com) or Medisafe (medisafeapp.com). These are free apps that you can download in the Apple or Google Play app stores that will send you timely notifications to take your pills, and reminders to refill your prescriptions.
Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit https://savvysenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.
Standing in front of the big buffalo are Dusty and Cindy Gardner, owners of 3 Strands Vintage Antique Mall.
Story and Photo by Vickie Jenkins, Staff Writer
Do you want to catch a glimpse of your past and relive precious memories? Stepping into 3 Strands Vintage Antique Mall feels like traveling back in time, where every corner is filled with the charm of yesteryear. Nostalgic treasures from decades gone by surround you, offering a delightful mix of retro signs to vintage furniture and classic fashion pieces. As you wander through the aisles, you’ll find items that bring back memories to the simple times. The displays invite you to explore, making each visit and experience where the past and the present blend together, leaving you with a feeling of timeless connection to history.
Meet Dusty and Cindy Gardner, the passionate owners of 3 Strands Vintage Antique Mall, located at 4848 N.W. Expressway, Oklahoma City, OK. As the largest vintage and antique mall in Oklahoma City, OK it offers an inviting space for treasure hunters and collectors alike. With over 35,000 square feet of thoughtfully laid out displays, the mall is a haven for those seeking timeless pieces, from mid-century furniture to nostalgic decor. You are sure to find something unique and interesting to remind you of the past. There is spacious room to explore and discover hidden gems.
When asked what inspired Dusty and Cindy to open a vintage mall, Cindy smiled and explained, “ Dusty has always been fascinated by old, forgotten items, always searching for rare antiques,” she said. “What began as a small hobby quickly grew into a full-blown passion and before we knew it, we were needing more space, outside of our home,” she added. “We found the perfect place. We love the excitement of our customers when they discover their long-forgotten treasures. We’ve also fallen in love with the community and all of the incredible people who have come into our lives. Today, the mall has 127 vendors and on our big sale days, we welcome over 2,000 people through our doors.”
Cindy explained their vision behind creating 3 Strands Vintage Antique Mall, sharing how they wanted to build a space where both vendors and customers could feel appreciated and valued. “We envisioned a community where passions could grow, where vendors could thrive and customers could find unique treasures that gave them that personal feeling.” She went on to say that their journey was guided by faith. “We began to pray for direction and clarity, trusting that through faithful prayer, the right path would unfold. Little by little, our dream became a reality and now, we have a place where everyone can gather, prosper and connect in meaningful ways, and keeping our focus on God in everything we do. This commitment to faith and community has become the heart and soul of 3 Strands Vintage Antique Mall, where business thrives and relationships flourish,” she said with a smile.
When asked if she believed there would always be a demand for antiques, even with the growing popularity of modern design, Cindy responded thoughtfully, “I truly believe there will always be a desire for antiques,” she said with confidence. “After all, antiques carry stories and memories that can’t be replaced by modern pieces. Modern designs has its place, but antiques offer something unique, a sense of nostalgia and the chance to hold a piece of time in your hands. I think that the emotional connection is something people will always seek.”
When asked about their personal favorite item in the store, Cindy smiled and thought for a moment before answering. “Well, I’m pretty sure Dusty’s favorite is the vintage gas pump we have. He’s always been fascinated by unique, industrial pieces like that.” she shared. “As for me I’d have to say my favorite is the authentic stagecoach we have on display. It’s such a striking piece of history. Every time I look at it, I think of the stories it could tell and the journeys it’s been on. Now, we both have a soft spot for the big buffalo that stands proudly in our store. It’s one of those pieces that really catches peoples attention when they walk in.”
Overall 3 Strands Vintage Antique Mall strives to be remembered as something far more than just another antique mall. They aim to be a place where history, community and passion come together, offering an experience that leaves a lasting impression on everyone who walks through their doors.
3 Strands Vintage Antique Mall, is more than just a place to find unique treasures; it’s a bridge that connects generations, sparking curiosity and nostalgia in young and old alike.
Gayle Veasey, left, Rebecca Williams and Carma Branscum, right, coached pickleball at the Be Amazing event.
Chicken N Pickle hosted the VillagesOKC member appreciation and anniversary party.
Each year, the members, board and sponsors of VillagesOKC meet to celebrate the past year with an Anniversary Party. This year, the celebration was held on a perfect Oklahoma evening at OKC’s Chicken N Pickle.
From Guthrie to South Oklahoma City, members who live in their own homes love connecting over great food. This evening, they enjoyed shuffleboard, corn hole and – of course pickleball – watching, learning and playing. VillagesOKC members who are avid pickleball enthusiasts, Carma Branscum and Gayle Veasy, helped teach others who had never played before.
Pickleball is just one opportunity for mature adults to stay active and enjoy new friends. Sharing a meal, being there and sometimes helping each other with hard conversations, are all part of the new mindset for those who are embracing their age here in Oklahoma City and across the nation.
“This incredible organization’s goal is to empower adults to age with vitality and purpose,” said Alicia Jackson, Chicken N Pickle’s Community Impact Coordinator. “We LOVE their purpose which reminds all ages that pickleball is for everyone.” VillagesOKC members lead the way with a can-do spirit.
As Oklahoma’s Best Real Estate Planner, I have had the privilege of working with clients at various stages of their lives. Working with seniors, I’ve seen firsthand how important it is for people to find the right home that truly suits their needs, especially as they transition into a new stage of life. One housing option that is particularly appealing is a single-level home with included lawn-care, located in a tight-knit community. There are so many benefits to this type of living arrangement, especially for older adults who are looking to simplify their lives while still enjoying home ownership. Let me share with you why this can be such a smart and fulfilling choice.
1. Ease of living and accessibility: One of the most obvious advantages of a single-level home is its accessibility. As we get older, the idea of climbing stairs multiple times a day becomes less appealing, and in some cases, it’s no longer practical. A single-level home eliminates that concern entirely. Everything you need is on one floor—no stairs, no strain, just convenience. Whether it’s moving around the home with ease, or thinking ahead about mobility in the future, single-level living provides the peace of mind that comes with knowing you can stay in your home comfortably for many years to come.
2. Low maintenance, More Enjoyment: Another major perk is having lawn care included. For many older adults, the upkeep of a yard can become overwhelming—especially in Oklahoma’s unpredictable weather. While you might still enjoy the sight of a beautifully manicured lawn or garden, the physical work it takes to maintain it can be exhausting and sometimes even dangerous in the summer heat or spring storms. Having lawn care included means you can enjoy the benefits of a well-kept yard without any of the hassle. You’ll have more time and energy to spend on hobbies, family, or simply relaxing in your own outdoor space without worrying about mowing or edging. Often these communities will allow you to manage your own flower beds, so you can still exercise your green thumb and enjoy a small bit of gardening.
3. Community Connection: A neighborhood that has under 50 homes creates a perfect balance between privacy and community. It’s large enough to offer variety in your neighbors, but small enough that you can truly get to know the people around you. This sense of community is incredibly important as we age. Whether it’s sharing a cup of coffee in the morning, organizing a neighborhood gathering, or simply having neighbors who look out for one another, these communities foster a sense of security and belonging that is deeply comforting. You’re not just moving into a house — you’re joining a supportive and friendly community, and that’s something you can’t put a price on.
4. Peace and Quiet: Smaller neighborhoods tend to be quieter and more peaceful, which can make all the difference in your day-to-day life. Without the constant hustle and bustle of heavy traffic, you can enjoy peaceful mornings on your porch, take leisurely walks around the neighborhood, or simply relax in your yard. It can be a wonderful environment for those seeking calm and comfort.
5. Security and Safety: Smaller neighborhoods often foster a stronger sense of security. Neighbors tend to look out for one another, and it’s easier to notice unfamiliar activity, which can be reassuring. Additionally, many communities that cater to older adults may offer extra safety features, such as gated entrances or neighborhood watch programs, adding to that peace of mind.
6. Predictable Costs: Finally, when lawn care and potentially other exterior maintenance are handled by your homeowner’s association (HOA), it’s one less thing to budget for or worry about. Predictable monthly or annual fees help you manage your expenses better, without the worry of unexpected yard maintenance costs. This financial stability is a big advantage for many seniors living on fixed incomes.
In conclusion, owning a single-level home with included lawn care in a small neighborhood provides numerous advantages for seniors. It offers ease, comfort, community, and the ability to enjoy your home without the stress of maintenance. If this sounds like something that could improve your quality of life, I’d be happy to help you explore the possibilities and find a home that fits your needs perfectly. Give us, your certified Real Estate Planner, a call at 405-757-9980 or email at info@vibrantok.com
Matt Neill is a realtor who has lived in Oklahoma over 17 years and enjoys spending time with his family, reading, and cheering on the OKC Thunder.
Stay Active and Engaged: Senior Programs with the Metropolitan Library System
This November, the Metropolitan Library System has a great lineup of programs for seniors. Whether you’re looking to stay active, connect with others, or learn new skills, there’s something for everyone. Wellness and Fitness Programs
Take charge of your health with Total Wellness, a free program by the Oklahoma City-County Health Department that focuses on preventing diabetes and heart disease through weight loss and increased activity. For those seeking a gentler exercise, Stay Active & Independent for Life (SAIL) offers chair exercises designed to boost strength and mobility. Sessions are available at the Northwest Library (Nov. 4 and 11 at 2:30 p.m.), Almonte Library (Nov. 5, 7, 12, 14, 19, and 21 at 10 a.m.), and Choctaw Library (Nov. 6 and 20 at 10 a.m.).
You can also improve your balance and muscle strength with Tai Chi, which helps reduce the risk of falls. Classes are held at Choctaw Library (Nov. 6, 13, 20, and 27 at 1 p.m.) and Southern Oaks Library (Nov. 12, 14, 19, and 21 at 10:15 a.m.). Space is limited, so be sure to register in advance. Support and Safety
If you’re caring for someone with Alzheimer’s, the Alzheimer’s Support Group at Bethany Library on Nov. 19 at 6 p.m. offers a welcoming space to connect with others and share practical advice. The S.A.L.T. Council (Seniors and Law Enforcement Together) will meet at Warr Acres Library on Nov. 4 at 10 a.m. to discuss the latest scams targeting seniors and how to stay safe. Tech and Learning Opportunities
Join us for Computer Keys: Excelling with Microsoft Excel at Downtown OKC Library on Nov. 9 at 10 a.m., where you can learn to create spreadsheets, use basic formulas, and organize data. This beginner-friendly class is perfect for seniors looking to brush up on their computer skills. Be sure to register early! Discover Your Family’s History
The library offers several exciting genealogy events this month. On Nov. 3 at 2 p.m. at Belle Isle Library, learn about Researching Your Native American Ancestry with a focus on Oklahoma’s tribal records, including the Dawes Roll. At Southern Oaks Library on Nov. 14 at 6 p.m., attend Getting Started With Recording Personal Histories-a great way to preserve family stories. You can also participate in Genealogy 101 at Del City Library on Nov. 16 at 10 a.m., where experts will help you trace your family tree using library resources.
If you’d like to dig deeper, the Downtown OKC Library has an extensive collection of genealogy materials, including family histories, local records, and online databases like Ancestry.com and HeritageHub. Our Special Collections department offers personalized assistance and one-on-one tutorials to support your research. Whether you’re just starting or diving deeper, we have the resources to help you discover your roots.
With these programs, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this November at the Metropolitan Library!
The American Legion Lebron Post 58 in Guthrie is expanding its community footprint helping veterans through several initiatives including its Bunker 58 Esports program. Pictured are Post Commander Kim Vincent, and Steve Sibley who serves as the Lebron Post 58’s Community Engagement Officer.
Story and Photo by Van Mitchell, Staff Writer
The American Legion Lebron Post 58 in Guthrie has a long history of doing community outreach helping veterans, active-duty members, and families of those who have served.
The American Legion Post is expanding its community outreach through a series of initiatives to help veterans receive the benefits and help they need, said Post Commander Kim Vincent.
Vincent, a U.S. Navy veteran, has served as the post commander since August.
She and her husband, also a Navy veteran, moved to Oklahoma from San Diego.
“For 20 years we’d come to Oklahoma. My childhood best friend from Indiana moved to Edmond about 27 years ago,” Vincent said. “We would just stay at her ranch, and we fell in love with it.”
Vincent said she wanted to get involved with the Guthrie community.
“I quickly got involved with the American Legion when we moved here,” she said. “I have a wonderful team of officers working with me. Together we have been so successful in starting new programs and getting them established.”
One of those programs was the creation of the Bunker 58 Esports program, which is designed to reduce veteran suicide by providing an environment of connection, teamwork, and camaraderie for local veterans.
“Bunker 58 started as an idea between three Legionnaires a couple of years ago,” said Army veteran and Lebron Post 58 Chaplain George Shafer. “We were sitting around drinking coffee, and one of our members read an article in the National American Legion Magazine about a partnership with a gaming organization. And in that article, it explained to us that eSports provides a level of camaraderie, accountability, and competition that veterans crave. We began the process of looking into what it would look like to get that program at our Post here in Guthrie. And we began looking at the cost and looking into the internet and considering where we could potentially run the program.”
Shafer said the grand opening this summer was a success.
“It exceeded our expectations dramatically,” he said. “We were hoping on a Wednesday afternoon to hopefully get 10 or 20 people to come out and look at what we were doing. We ended up having over 100 people show up. We were able to speak with veterans and attendees who had never stepped foot into an American Legion before. We’ve also been able to attract new members from a younger demographic. And the response that we got from our immediate community was overwhelmingly special.”
Steve Sibley, a U.S. Army veteran, serves as the Lebron Post 58’s Community Engagement Officer.
He also serves as an Account Executive with Senior News and Living Magazine.
Sibley said one of his goals is helping launch the Oklahoma Veteran News-Magazine in January 2025.
Oklahoma is home to approximately 285,000 veterans, active-duty members, Guard and reservists. That number reaches well over half-a-million when you include their spouses and caregivers.
For veterans in Oklahoma, their greatest challenge is how and where do they find and access all the resources available to them? Likewise, for providers with services, information, and resources for veterans and their caregivers, their challenge is connecting with veterans and their family members.
“The purpose of our new magazine is to not only fill that gap, but also bring to light the stories of Oklahoma’s active service members, guard, reserve members, veterans, and veteran owned businesses,” Sibley said. “My goal has been for over two years now to come up with some type of veteran-focused news magazine for Oklahoma, while helping veterans access the benefits that they have. There’s so much information out there and so many benefits that they can access. A lot of them just don’t know. I want to get that information out.”
Sibley said he and Vincent have worked together to put together veteran resource fairs at the American Legion.
“Kim and I started talking about an opportunity to do a resource fair for veterans last November,” he said. “We started with that, and things have just gone from there. They’re doing all these awesome things in the community already. I want to take what we’re doing here at the Legion and engage with the community. We’re working hand in hand with the Guthrie Chamber and we’re going to their weekly events when we can, and we’re trying to schedule our officers, so we have someone there all the time.”
Sibley said the American Legion Post is hosting its next Veteran and Senior Wellness and Resource Fair Nov. 21 at the Post located at 123 N. 1st Street from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Additionally, he said the Post also hosts Thursday morning coffees for veterans from 9 a.m.-noon.
“We have Thursday morning coffee, and we want to do things like invite our first responders and recognize their work in the community,” he said.
Vincent said the community outreach also focuses on the next generation of future military members.
She said the Post has worked with Colonel Kyle Brede, (US Army RET) the JROTC commander at Guthrie High School to help spread the word about the American Legion and its purpose.
“It’s important for us to be out in the community and engaging with the community and its young people to get them excited to hopefully one day join our military especially since recruiting numbers have recently been declining,” Vincent said.
Vincent said the Lebron Post’s biggest fundraiser event each year is its role in organizing Guthrie’s annual 89er Day celebration each April. The 2025 celebration will mark the 96th annual event.
Vincent said one of the Post’s long-term goals is providing temporary/transitional housing for veterans.
“We have a vision of having some transitioning homes,” she said. “We want to be able to provide some kind of housing for them temporarily, and that’s going to take some time. We need property to do that.”
Vincent said the Post is considering looking for a location that is in a quieter spot.
“I feel like we need a space outside of town, with fewer horns honking, or the ambulance going to the hospital,” she said.
Vincent said telling a veteran’s story is important.
The Veterans History Project at the Library of Congress collects, preserves and makes accessible the firsthand recollections of U.S. military veterans who served from World War I through more recent conflicts and peacekeeping missions, so that future generations may hear directly from veterans and better understand what they saw, did and felt during their service.
“We’re partnering with Senator (James) Lankford’s office, with the Veteran History Project, where they’re coming up here Dec. 5, where volunteers from the senator’s office and the Red Cross will come and sit down with veterans and record their stories,” she said.
For more information about the programs at Lebron Post 58 call (405)282-2589 or visit https://lebronpost58.org
