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.

November 9th, Saturday
All Stars granny basketball team will be playing the Bridge Creek Fire Department at the Bridge Creek Middle School gym on Saturday, November 9th at 2 pm. We are fundraising for a children’s Christmas toy drive.
Donations welcome. There will be a silent auction for baked goods and baskets.
For more information, contact Lori Rupert – Captain, All Stars-OKC granny basketball team 405-328-8090

Click Below to visit:

Commons on Classen

62 Years of Age or Older

Come See our beautiful apartments!

Efficiency range is Currently $650.00 – $725.00

1-bedroom range is currently $675.00 – $775.00

2-bedroom range is currently $800.00 – $875.00

We have: · Shuffleboard Court · Splash Pad · Work Out Room · Library & Craft Room · And many amenities to fit your lifestyle!

Visit: www.nhsokla.org/apartments

Or email Commons@belmontmgt.net

1320 Classen Drive, Oklahoma City, OK 73103

405-601-6819 TDD # 711

Office Hours: Monday – Friday 11:00 am – 5:00 pm

By Marise Boehs

November is a month dedicated to helping older pets find loving forever homes. If you’ve been thinking about adding a four-legged-friend to your family, consider opening your home and your heart to an older dog or cat in need. While small kittens and puppies may be cute, older pets are just as loving and loyal!
Since senior pets are fully grown, you will have access to important information like personality type and grooming requirements, making it easier to choose the perfect pet for your family.
Senior pets are typically calmer and less energetic than puppies and kittens, so it’s easier to teach them new tricks. Many senior pets are already pros at performing basic commands.
Many people find themselves unprepared for the energy and needs of a young pet. But a sweet senior moves at a much more manageable pace. They’re less demanding and usually fit in well in many kinds of households, including apartments.
Some are unprepared for the hard work it can be to housetrain a new puppy or kitten. You can spend a lot of time training a new puppy to do their business outdoors or teach a kitten to remember where the litter box is. But older pets are usually already housetrained, saving you that stress.
Understanding the personality of an animal is key to finding the perfect match for your family and for that homeless pet. While young puppies and kittens are still developing their personalities, you’ll know right away whether a senior dog is a snuggle-bug or a senior cat is more of an independent spirit.
Many people looking to adopt, complete overlooking the perfectly adoptable older dogs and cats in kennels and cage. In many cases, the absolute most difficult group of homeless pets to place are older dogs and cats. It is a sad fact that senior pets are often the last to be adopted from shelters, putting them at an increased risk for euthanasia.
When you adopt a senior pet, you’re not only welcoming a lifetime of love into your home, you’re also saving a precious life. You’ll get lots of love from an amazing companion.
That said, bringing an older pet home from the shelter or rescue can have its own unique challenges. Sometimes, because the pet is at an advanced age, there can be some extra health issues to consider. They’ll need regular vet care, preventative care, and dental care to stay in good health. But that, by no means, should deter someone from adopting a senior pet.
Depending on breed, lifestyle, and existing health issues, a senior dog or cat can still have plenty of healthy and happy years to give as your loving companion.
Healthcare for Senior Pets
Dogs and cats are considered seniors by the age of 7 years old. They age faster than humans and how much faster is determined by their size and breed.
Bi-annual exams are very important to senior pets to help them maintain a happy, long life.
Our pets are increasingly vulnerable to many illnesses as they reach their later years of life. Their health problems related to advancing years are like our own, including heart disease, dental problems, liver disease, digestive disorder, kidney disease, and cancer.
Early detection and treatment of diseases can enable veterinarians to extend your pet’s life and improve the quality of it as well.
Senior exam & lab work benefits include:
Physical Exam Many diseases such as tumors, dental disease, and heart disease can be detected and treated early with a physical exam.
     Blood Chemistry (CBC/Chem.) To identify various underlying problems with the internal organs early on before they become serious. Many of these problems may not be detected on a physical exam.
Urinalysis Assesses the health and function of the kidneys and bladder. Many diseases will cause urine to be abnormal before any other test or exam will show an abnormality. This is good for early detection of kidney disease.
Thyroid Screening (T4) Many breeds develop thyroid problems as they age. Screening allows early detection before they become ill.
Electrocardiogram (ECG) Helps to detect heart problems that may not show on physical exam so further diagnosis or  treatment can be started.
Glaucoma Screening To check the pressure in the eyes. If the pressure is too high, it can be painful and cause blindness.
Blood Pressure Overweight and geriatric animals are prone to high blood pressure. As in people, it can be a silent killer. Older cats are at risk and sometimes the first symptom is blindness or kidney disease that could be prevented if started on medications early.
     Radiographs: For detection of abnormalities such as enlarged heart, tumors, and organ enlargements.
Dentistry: Keeping the pet’s teeth clean prevents painful teeth, odor from the mouth, and bacteria from the mouth that could damage the kidneys, heart, or other organs.
Source: Rose Rock Veterinary Hospital and Pet Resort

Author’s Note
Some of the best times of my life where spent with my beloved senior girls. They have gone on to their reward now but not a day goes by that we don’t miss them and talk about  the good times.
While the puppy is a joy, and thankfully through the chew-everything-in-sight-stage, she has a high bar to meet. We have to remind ourselves that she is who she is and not compare her to the seniors. “She’s only 3 years old,” is a constant refrain at our house.

Capulin Volcano
National Monument, New Mexico

By Marise Boehs

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

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.

On Friday, November 15, from 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Choctaw Freedmen Citizen Footprints (CFCF) is partnering with the Oklahoma Historical Society to share and discuss Black experiences on Route 66 in the Chesapeake Event Center and Gallery at the Oklahoma History Center in Oklahoma City.
The CFCF will unveil the “Oklahoma Freedmen Families and Descendants” pop-up exhibit at the event. This exhibit explores the journeys of Freedmen families traveling across Route 66 and other Oklahoma roads, highways, and byways for work and family gatherings – creating a new path for their descendants to follow. These journeys played a pivotal role in shaping Oklahoma’s history and narratives.
Brenda Droke, Doris Burris Williamson, and Wanda Warren will be the guest speakers, among others, rendering a special tribute to selected honorees from the Burris, Coleman, Butler, Cole and Liggins families.
A light lunch will be served. The event is free, but registration is required. The registration deadline is Friday, November 1.
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 www.okhistory.org.

New brand honors Oklahoma baseball legend Mickey Mantle, emphasizes team affiliation with the Los Angeles Dodgers

Oklahoma City’s Triple-A baseball team officials tonight revealed the team’s new name and brand, the Oklahoma City Comets, during an unveiling ceremony at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. The OKC Comets name pays homage to Oklahoma baseball legend Mickey Mantle, whose nickname was “the Commerce Comet.” The brand’s light blue and red colors and logo, with a baseball shooting through the sky like a comet, honor the team’s long-time affiliation with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
“We wanted our new name and brand to be something that reflects Oklahoma’s rich baseball history and our affiliation with the Dodgers but is also uniquely ours and embraces the future of our city and state,” said Oklahoma City Comets President/General Manager Michael Byrnes. “Mickey Mantle-the Commerce Comet-is an iconic baseball figure for our state, our city, our team and our ballpark. In addition, the OKC Comets name and different marks that display images of space suggest a look toward the future and enables us to have a bit of fun bringing our new identity to life for our fans.”
Byrnes said the local community and key stakeholders played a significant role in selecting the new name. Over the past two years, team officials hosted focus groups with members of the community and reviewed the high volume of feedback received from fans via social media and email submissions.
“We appreciate our community of fans who provided input into the new name and brand and who have supported this team throughout the years-since 1962,” Byrnes said. “Our commitment is to continue to provide the same fun, family-friendly game day experience our fans have come to expect-now with new signage, new uniforms and mascots.”
The team remains the Los Angeles Dodgers Triple-A affiliate through at least 2030 under the current Professional Development League license, featuring players one step away from Major League Baseball for years to come.
Work is underway to replace signage, uniforms and other graphics with the OKC Comets brand, which will greet fans when the new season begins in April 2025. Fans who want to get a jump-start on displaying the new brand can purchase OKC Comets merchandise online or at the Team Store, located on the west side of Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. Season memberships for 2025 are currently available for purchase.

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.

Goldie Nelson

(Right) 101 years old. Meet Goldie Nelson 101 and moved to Harrah, OK. Her brother, Harold, also lives there. Goldie and Olen Nelson were married for 66 years and raised two children, both of whom were at the celebration. Goldie’s words of wisdom for us are: When You Get Married, Don’t Go to Bed Angry, Communication is Important!

Faye Flowers

(Left) 101 years old. Faye (McCoy) Flowers, 101, has lived a full life in Jones, staying healthy without medications. She credits daily hot chocolate and regular bike rides for her longevity. She buys clothes from resale stores to donate to those in need. She was honored with the Pay It Forward award and featured in local media. Her advice: “Forgive easily, love everyone, and thank God daily.”

John Knorr

(Right) 100 years old. WWII Veteran John Andrew Knorr, born October 26, 1924, in Kittanning, PA, graduating Notre Dame’s Electrical Engineering program. He served 7 years in the Navy on the USS Langley. After a career with TG&Y Corporation, he retired in 1989. Now in Tulsa, he stays active and always has a smile. His advice: “Obey your parents. Listen!”

Margaret Burnett

(Right) 102 years old. Meet Margaret Burnett, a lively 102-year-old born in Kay County. She lived in several towns before settling in Ponca City, where she worked as a nurse’s aide until 1994. She has a five-generation family, including three daughters, six grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and five great-great-grandchildren. For her 100th birthday, she collected food donations for the Northern Oklahoma Humane Society instead of gifts, a tradition she continued the following year.