Dear Savvy Senior, How can I get my doctors to listen better? I just turned 78, and over the past few years I feel more and more dismissed by my doctors. I know I can’t be the only one who feels this way. Any suggestions? Dissatisfied Patient

Dear Dissatisfied,
Communication difficulties between patients and their doctors is nothing new. Many older patients feel like their doctors are dismissing their concerns, which can be frustrating and lead to missed diagnoses and delayed care. If you believe your doctor isn’t listening to you, here are some tips offered by the National Institute on Aging that may help.
Prepare for your appointment: Before your exam, make a written prioritized list of any questions and concerns you want to discuss with your doctor, or print any online health research you’ve gathered, and bring it to your appointment so you won’t forget anything. If you’re in for a diagnostic visit, you should prepare a detailed description of your symptoms, when they began and what makes them worse.
Be honest and upfront: Even if the topic seems sensitive or embarrassing, it’s important to be honest and upfront with your doctor. You may feel uncomfortable talking about memory loss or bowel issues, but these are all important to your health. It’s better to be thorough and share detailed information than to be quiet or shy about what you’re thinking or feeling. Remember, your doctor is used to talking about all kinds of personal matters.
Ask specific questions: If you and your doctor aren’t communicating well, ask specific questions that require a response. For example: What might have caused the problem I’m dealing with? What’s the specific name of my diagnosis? Is the problem serious? Will it heal completely or require ongoing management? What future symptoms might suggest you need emergency care or a follow-up visit? When and how will you receive your test results? If you don’t understand something, don’t hesitate to ask: Can you explain that in simpler terms? Or: Can you give me more details about that?
Take someone with you: Bring along a family member or friend to your appointment. Your companion can help you ask questions or raise concerns that you hadn’t considered and listen to what the doctor is telling you and give you support.
Be persistent: If your doctor isn’t addressing your questions, repeat them or rephrase them. If you still don’t get anywhere, follow up with one of these statements: “I’m worried that we aren’t communicating well. Here’s why I feel that way.” Or: “I need to talk with you about X. I feel like I can’t. Can we talk about this?”
For more tips, the National Institute on Aging offers a free booklet called “Talking with Your Doctor: A Guide for Older Adults” that can help you prepare for an appointment and become a better and more informed patient. To order free copy or see it online, visit order.nia.nih.gov/publication/talking-with-your-doctor-a-guide-for-older-adults.
Consider moving on: If you’re not making any progress with your doctor and the problem persists, it’s probably time to start looking for a new provider. Depending how unsatisfied you are with your care, you could also notify your doctor’s medical group and your insurance company or leave feedback on their online profile. If you’re dealing with a serious issue – like a doctor who prescribes the wrong medication or fails to provide test results in a timely manner – it might be appropriate to file a complaint with the state medical board.
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.

Senior Events at the Metropolitan Library System – December

This holiday season, the Metropolitan Library System has a festive and lively lineup of programs tailored for seniors. From wellness classes to crafting sessions, there’s something for everyone.

Wellness and Fitness Programs

• Stay Active & Independent for Life (SAIL): Chair exercises to boost strength and mobility.
• Almonte Library: 10 a.m., Dec. 3, 5, 10, and 12.
• Choctaw Library: 10 a.m., Dec. 4, 11, and 18.
• Tai Chi: Improve balance and muscle strength. Space is limited-register early to secure your spot!
• Choctaw Library: 1 p.m., Dec. 4, 11, and 18.
• Intermediate Tai Chi at Southern Oaks Library: 10:15 a.m., Dec. 3, 5, 10, 12, and 19.

Support and Safety

• The 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s: Learn to recognize the signs of Alzheimer’s and next steps.
• Northwest Library: 6 p.m., Dec. 16.
• S.A.L.T. Council (Seniors and Law Enforcement Together): Discuss scams targeting seniors and how to stay safe.
• Warr Acres Library: 10 a.m., Dec. 2.

Crafting and Creativity

Seniors can get crafty this holiday season with these engaging activities.
• Deck the Bottles: Christmas Wine Bottle Upcycling
• Edmond Library: 6:30 p.m., Dec. 4.
• Cross-Stitch Ornaments
• Southern Oaks Library: 3 p.m., Dec. 8.
• Needle Felt Architecture Painting
• Almonte Library: 2 p.m., Dec. 14.

Ongoing Crafting Groups

Connect with fellow crafters through these regular programs.
• Downtown Crochet and Knit Club:
• Downtown OKC Library: 2 p.m., Dec. 7.
• Craft Along:
• Bethany Library: 1:30 p.m., Dec. 4 and 18.
• Beginner-Friendly Crochet Night:
• Belle Isle Library: 6 p.m., Dec. 16.
• Maker Meetup:
• Bethany Library: 6 p.m., Dec. 11.

Fun with Your Grandkids

Create meaningful memories and enjoy the season with these family-friendly events.
• Makerspace: Winter Whittle: Learn how to turn soap into festive works of art.
• Choctaw Library: 4 p.m., Dec. 11.
• Take-and-Make Felt Animal Ornament Kit: Create adorable woodland decorations.
• Edmond Library: Dec. 9-15.
• Paper Mosaic Holiday Cards: Craft unique holiday cards as keepsakes.
• Choctaw Library: 3:15 p.m., Dec. 12.
• Resin Ornaments: Make dazzling resin holiday ornaments.
• Midwest City Library: 5 p.m., Dec. 12.
This December, the Metropolitan Library System is your destination for staying active, learning new skills and making meaningful connections. Join us for these events and more!

At 76, Richard Amend, M.Ed., Journey to Becoming a Certified Santa Claus

Transforming Christmas magic into unforgettable moments, and inspiring joy across generations.

story and photo by Darl DeVault, contributing editor

At 76, Richard Amend, M.Ed., recently took his passion for creating the best Santa Claus experience to new heights. He traveled to Denver to become a Certified AuthentiClaus, a significant achievement after two decades of playing Santa. His attendance at the Santa Claus Portrayal & Business Mastery training is a testament to his commitment to embracing the spirit of Christmas.
His 2023 portrayal of Santa was a milestone for Saint Ann Assisted and Independent Living in Northwest Oklahoma City. Campus Director, Joyce Clark, says the time with Santa for photos was the largest ever staged photo session in the facility’s 22-year history.
“Arranging for residents and their families to take photos together with Santa is a prime example of how we emphasize fun and resident-centered services. Saint Ann Assisted and Independent Living’s activity calendar is packed with entertainment, games, crafts, outings, speakers, singing, spiritual times, and things to do. We offer the most and best life enrichment program I have ever seen” Clark said in an interview.
Amend has dedicated the past 40 years to working with seniors and has been the Director of Community Outreach at Saint Ann for 18 years. He is especially tickled with his new certified Santa status, which came with training to interact with special needs children, adults, and at-risk youth. This enhances his devotion to creating magical, heartfelt experiences that leave a lasting impression on audiences of all ages. On behalf of Saint Ann, Amend portrays Santa at a number of other senior living and healthcare providers in the region.
Saint Ann Assisted and Independent Living is a ministry of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. People of all faiths love living at the recently remodeled campus that includes independent living, assisted living, and a convent for the Carmelite Sisters of Villa Teresa. Residents blossom in the home’s active lifestyle and caring atmosphere.
Last year, Archbishop Emeritus of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City, Eusebius J. Beltran, posed with Santa, staff, residents, and the nuns. Beltran’s vision of a senior living ministry motivated the Archdiocese to develop the campus 22 years ago. The assisted and independent living center is a not-for-profit Catholic organization serving people of all faiths. Residents are cheerful and very pleased with the rich services and amenities at Saint Ann. Laughter and conversation in the dining rooms accompany delicious meals. Residents say they love Saint Ann’s food. They also enjoy being driven to appointments and shopping in one of the two limousines Saint Ann has in its fleet of vehicles. A 24-hour concierge is a focal point for communications and assists residents with everything from check cashing to package delivery.
Resident families are encouraged to visit and participate. Three guest apartments are available for out-of-town visitors. Many guests come to eat with residents or to enjoy singers, bands, and parties. The grand theatre, private dining room, and other areas are often reserved for family celebrations.
Assisted living at Saint Ann is a cozy lifestyle where helping hand services are offered in addition to all the other campus amenities. Staff are available to assist with bathing, dressing, medication administration, and a number of individualized services. Three fully furnished respite apartments have been popular for folks who want a short-term stay to recover or be attended to while their caregiver is away. Respite care is a wonderful way to check out the assisted living experience without having to move or make any long-term decisions.
As Christmas approaches, anticipation is building for the day Santa’s authentic sleigh will arrive. Wish lists are being created and costumes prepared for photos with Santa Amend. For many, that photo becomes a cherished Christmas card or festive social media post.
Amend says it is a privilege to don the Santa suit every year. “Our residents are full of life,” Amend said. “They invigorate me with their enthusiasm for the season. People say their time with Santa is special, but it is even more so for me. I get to play the role of one of the most loved icons in our culture who conveys kindness and gifting of special things at Christmas.”
Amend is not the only staff member who helps make the Christmas season cheerful. “Our life enrichment team, concierge, marketing, maintenance, dining service, housekeeping, nurse aides, and everyone helps in numerous ways. You will see some of them dressed up as Santa’s helpers, elves, reindeer, and a snowman to make Saint Ann’s winter wonderland more festive,” Amend said.
Saint Ann Assisted and Independent Living is also known as Saint Ann Retirement Center. It is located at 7501 W. Britton Road in northwest Oklahoma City.
For more information about Saint Ann Retirement
Center visit www.saintannretirementcenter.com

By Marise Boehs

This Christmas marks the thirty-eighth annual Norman Christmas Day Community Dinner, which is held at the Norman High School Commons cafeteria and is coordinated by the Paula M. and Bob D. Magarian Norman Christmas Day Community Dinner Foundation, Inc.

This free, traditional Christmas dinner, which is open to everyone, and delivers over 300 meals to residents who are shut-ins. On average, 2000 meals are served through dine in and carry out.

The Dinner is held on Christmas Day from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Guests are greeted and served by 300 volunteers. There is a large toy room where children walk through and select what they want. Gloves, caps for children and adults, socks, scarves, and adult grooming items are distributed by our volunteers. Santa is there to take pictures with the children and hand out candy while a local band plays Christmas songs to bring joy to the families. Through the years, for some families, this is their only Christmas. Banks, businesses, and private donations along with 300 volunteers make the dinner possible.

But it hasn’t always been so. In 1987, the Magarian family of six, got together with a few caring individuals and together they organized a free community Christmas Dinner to benefit those who were alone, or those who were unable to prepare a Christmas meal.

“On Christmas Eve 1987 we had the church all set for the dinner. It was decorated and the women of St. Michaels had prepared the food. Toys were in place. It was all arranged and I went home,” said Bob Magarian.

“The next morning I woke up early to the worst ice storm in the history of Norman to date. It was horrible. Ice was hanging from everything. Trees where down,” he continued, “But I started for the church. It took me a long time to get there. It was 5am when I arrived and Howard Moore, my right hand man, was the only one there. He was heating up the roasters.”

But the day did not go smoothly. The bus sent to the designated pickup spots only had one rider and then the bus caught fire. So the men from St. Michaels got in their cars and drove, sliding and dodging fallen limbs, around Norman.

In the end, 20 people came and 24 volunteers served them. “One family with children told me if it wasn’t for that dinner they would have not had Christmas because he had been laid off from his job two weeks earlier,” Magarian said. Thus the Annual Christmas Dinner was decided. In 2017 the Magarian family lost their only son, Bob Dwight, unexpectedly, and in 2020 their oldest daughter, Paula Marie, from brain cancer.

The family decided in 2021 to honor their memory by establishling the “Paula M. and Bob D. Magarian Norman Christmas Day Community Dinner Foundation, Inc.”

story by Van Mitchell, Staff Writer

Historic authenticity meets holiday festivity during A Territorial Christmas Celebration, an annual tradition for over 35 years in Guthrie.
From a costumed Christmas parade to Victorian home tours, this celebration immerses visitors in the city’s lively Territorial period.
The 2024 edition of Guthrie’s Territorial Christmas Celebration spans three weekends Nov. 30, Dec. 7 and Dec. 14.
The first event was a Gatlin Brothers Christmas and Country concert on Friday, Nov. 29 at 7 p.m. at Guthrie’s Scottish Rite Temple. Doors opened at 6 p.m.
Opening Night kicked off Saturday, Nov. 30 at 6 p.m. with the Territorial Christmas Parade.
The parade started at the Scottish Rite Temple, led by the Territorial Governor candidates. From there, a promenade of illuminated cars, trucks, dune buggies, and even be-lighted people went west along Oklahoma Avenue, which included an appearance by Santa Claus.
The parade ended at the State Capital Publishing Museum and was immediately followed by the Territorial Governor ceremonies.
The Guthrie Territorial Christmas Foundation, a non-profit 501(c)(3), operates the yearly Celebrations.
Each year Guthrie’s Territorial Christmas Foundation nominates a few citizens to run for Territorial Governor and Junior Governor. Votes are sold for $1 each, and candidates compete to buy their way to the title.
After the parade on the steps of Guthrie’s Post Office, this year’s Territorial Governor and Junior Governor was announced and the lighting of the Territorial Christmas tree.
This year’s celebration includes the “Territorial Tots: Baby Governor Photo Contest.”
Unlike the Territorial Governor and Junior Territorial Governor campaigns and activities, this is purely an online contest for Guthrie babies to dress in their Victorian best and claim the honor of Territorial Tot!
Voters had until Nov. 27, to vote for their favorite tot by donating online! You can find the name and age of each little one under their photo.
All proceeds are funded for Guthrie’s Territorial Christmas Celebrations: Opening Night, Victorian Walks, and Distinctive Homes Tour.
The Distinctive Homes Tour offers you an opportunity for an exclusive look inside some of Guthrie’s most impressive homes and historic buildings that are specially selected by Guthrie’s Territorial Christmas and are dressed up for the holiday season.
According to the GTCC Facebook page “The tour is our largest fundraiser and, as such, we only invite the best and most beautiful homes in Guthrie to participate!”
This year’s Homes Tour is Dec. 7 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets are $20 each.
Proof of purchase is required for entry into the homes/buildings.
Reserve your tickets online for pickup on the day of the event, or purchase in person on Dec. 7 between 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Guthrie City Hall located at 101 N 2nd Street.
Guthrie’s Territorial Christmas Victorian Walks will be held Saturday Dec. 7 and Saturday Dec. 14.
During Guthrie’s Victorian Walk Evenings, visitors will step back into the Victorian era with carolers in early-1900s dress and decorated store windows complete with re-enactors depicting Victorian-era Guthrie. Participants can enjoy treats from peanut vendors lining the downtown streets.
Guthrie’s Christmas Market will open three weekends at 117 E Oklahoma Avenue on the corner of Wentz and Oklahoma Avenue with vendors and food trucks.
The Christmas Market will be open Saturday, Nov. 30 from noon to 6 p.m.; and Saturday, Dec. 7 and Saturday Dec. 14 from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Over 30 years, 1,000 performances, and 150,000 patrons “A Territorial Christmas Carol” is back in this reimagining of Dickens’ classic tale at Guthrie’s Pollard Theatre.
The show runs Nov. 22 through Dec. 22.
As a not-for-profit organization, the Pollard Theatre’s mission is to produce meaningful, entertaining, and diverse theatre within the City of Guthrie and the greater state of Oklahoma. Honoring the legacy of the Guthrie Arts and Humanities Council, their work strives to engage and inspire audiences within their community and beyond.
“These events are so special because our downtown absolutely comes to life with visions of times gone past,” Economic Development Director Shawnda Rooney said. “The Victorian talent along the street closures and the Victorian talent that make up all of the live windows create such a magical atmosphere for visitors and locals alike.”
For more information about Guthrie’s Territorial Christmas Celebration visit www.guthriesterritorialchristmas.com or visit www.thepollard.org

story and photo by Vickie Jenkins, Staff Writer

As the holiday season approaches, shoppers eagerly seek that holiday magic; twinkling lights, festive decorations and the perfect Christmas tree. For those looking to surround themselves with the spirit of the season, North Pole City, is the ultimate destination. Here, the magic truly comes alive, with a dazzling array of Christmas trees, sparkling lights, and unique ornaments at every turn. Just when you think you’ve seen it all, another enchanting display awaits, making it a holiday wonderland unlike any other.
David Green is the owner and founder of North Pole City. He recently shared the inspiring story behind his journey to entrepreneurship. “I’ve always been drawn to sales and have genuinely enjoyed the process,” he began. “When I was 12 years old, I dreamed of owning a bicycle, but my parents couldn’t afford to buy me one. Determined to make it happen, I started helping behind the counter at Harvey’s Drugstore, doing whatever tasks were needed. Over time, I saved enough money to purchase a shiny new bike. That moment was crucial to me. It taught me the value of hard work and perseverance and showed me that with dedication, my efforts would eventually pay off.”
When asked how he decided to open a Christmas store, David replied, “I guess it all started when I was a kid. My mother always made Christmas a truly special time for our family. Those memories stuck with me. After I got married in 1983, my wife and I would travel to Dallas, Texas for market, and there was this incredible place called The Original Christmas Store. It was absolutely beautiful and left a lasting impression on us. At the time, I owned a ceiling fan business, which kept me and my employees busy, mainly during the summer. But, I wanted to find something to keep us occupied in the winter months as well. That’s what led me to the Christmas business. The idea of opening a store dedicated to the magic of Christmas felt like a perfect fit. We chose the name North Pole City because it captured the spirit of the season. Today, we’re proud to be the only Christmas store in Oklahoma City.” The business, which began in 1987 when David Green built the original building, has been a family affair from the start. “Of course, my wife, Darra has been instrumental in everything over the years,” David shared with a smile. “We work side by side and have spent countless hours building this dream together. Our partnership has been a cornerstone of our success.” Now, their older children are becoming involved in the business, ensuring that North Pole City will carry on to the next generation. “This is truly a family-owned and operated business,” David emphasized. “We put a lot of thought and care into the displays and decorations because we want everyone who steps through the doors to feel genuinely welcome. Seeing the wonder on people’s faces when they walk in, that’s what makes it all worthwhile.”
David explained that North Pole City operates as a year-round business, with a buying season that begins in December and runs through the middle of March. “Starting in December, we also begin inventory work, which continues all the way through September. There’s a lot that goes into getting everything ready for the many people who visit our store each year,” he said. To keep things running smoothly, the business relies on a dedicated team of employees. “Right now, we have 12 year-round employees and an additional 25 seasonal staff during our busiest time. I’m fortunate to have some truly amazing people working for me. They’re like the cream of the crop,” David said with pride. “We’re like one big happy family. I have several employees who have been with us for over 35 years and others for at least 25 years. That kind of loyalty and dedication is rare and I have the utmost respect and trust for all of them. They’re a huge part of what makes North Pole City so special.”
David shared his vision for North Pole City over the next five years, emphasizing a focus on growth and innovation. “We’re always thinking of new ideas to enhance the experience for our customers and keep the magic of Christmas alive,” he said. “I’d love to see us continue to grow, possibly even build a new, larger space to expand our offerings, and create an even more mesmerizing experience. The goal to keep improving and finding fresh ways to bring joy to everyone who visits our store.”

Story by Matt Neil, Oklahoma Real Estate Planner

Since the holiday season is upon us, it is a wonderful time to reflect about how your home has been a centerpiece for the memories that have been made there and the traditions your family has kept. It is also an opportunity to think about what meaningful legacy you will create to continue to enrich your family for years to come.
Your home is much more than a property, it’s a place filled with memories, love, and laughter. Whether it’s the house where your children grew up or where you’ve hosted countless holiday gatherings, it holds a special place in your family’s story. As Oklahoma’s Best Real Estate Planner, I help families think about how they want their home to be a part of their family’s future.
If passing your home down to your children or grandchildren is part of your plan, make sure your wishes are clearly outlined in your estate planning document. We encourage you to speak with an estate attorney to ensure your property is transferred smoothly and in line with your intentions. Most people don’t know that over 70% of families argue over real estate when a family member leaves a property behind without a plan to divide it. In real estate planning, we help families think about how they want to divide their real estate, as it is often overlooked and is often a point of contention among families.
While your home is a tangible part of your legacy, your values and traditions are just as important. The holiday season offers a wonderful opportunity to reinforce what matters most to you and your family. Consider creating traditions that can be passed down for generations, such as baking a family recipe, decorating together, or sharing stories around the table. Write down or record your memories, life lessons, and hopes for the future. These treasures can serve as a guide for your loved ones, reminding them of the foundation you built and the values you cherish.
Creating a legacy plan is about more than finances—it’s about ensuring that your love, traditions, and values live on. If you’d like help finding the perfect home to complement your legacy or need guidance on how to align your real estate plans with your family’s future, I’d be honored to assist. Give us, your certified Real Estate Planner, a call at 405-757-9980, or email at [email protected]. Let’s make sure your legacy is one that brings your family together for years to come.
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.

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1320 Classen Drive, Oklahoma City, OK 73103

405-601-6819 TDD # 711

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

By Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready

The Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) is ready to assist Oklahomans affected by the severe storms that impacted central and eastern Oklahoma Nov. 2-4.
“I know folks are feeling overwhelmed in the wake of these storms,” Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready said. “OID is here to help you navigate your insurance claims process or address any issues you might have with insurers.”
Anyone impacted by storms can contact OID’s Consumer Assistance division at 1-800-522-0071 or by visiting oid.ok.gov. Commissioner Mulready also reminds Oklahomans to report damage at damage.ok.gov.
Here are some post-storm tips for victims:
1. Access and document your damage. Take numerous photos or videos of the damage. Don’t throw anything away unless your insurance company tells you to.
2. Make the necessary repairs to prevent further damage. Cover broken windows, holes, leaking roofs and damaged walls. Do not have permanent repairs made until your insurance company has inspected the property and you have reached an agreement with them on the cost of appropriate repairs. Move undamaged items to a safe location when necessary to avoid theft or additional loss.
3. Have your roof inspected by a trusted roofing contractor. If the damages are below or slightly over your deductible, you will want to pay for the repairs. If they exceed your deductible, turn the claim in to your insurance carrier.
4. Contact your insurance company or agent after you have an estimate for repairs. Ask what forms, documents and information you need to provide to process your claim. Remember that replacement cost policies require the work to be completed within six months of the date of loss to receive the replacement cost payments that were withheld.
5. Save all receipts. If you made repairs to your property, save all receipts, including those from the temporary repairs that your insurance policy might cover.
6. Ask about additional living expenses. If your home is damaged to the extent that it is unlivable, ask your insurance provider if you have coverage for living expenses incurred while repairs are being made.
Remember these tips when you’re dealing with contractors to avoid fraud:
• Always get more than one bid.
• Check references and phone numbers. Contractor complaint information is collected by the Better Business Bureau. You can contact the Construction Industries Board to make sure the contractor has a valid license to do business in the state and that they carry liability insurance.
• Don’t pay upfront, and don’t make your final payment until the job is finished.
• Avoid contractors who offer to waive your deductible or promise a rebate (It’s against the law!).
• Never sign a contract with blank spaces; always keep a copy for your records.
If you suspect contractor fraud, contact the Office of the Oklahoma Attorney General Consumer Protection Unit at 1-833-681-1895.
You can find more information about preparing for storms and reviewing your insurance coverage at oid.ok.gov/GetReady.

story and photos by
Nick Thomas

With over 90 miles of trails weaving through the area, Oklahoma City’s numerous parks are a haven for walkers, joggers, and hikers alike. While the green urban spaces invite exploration of the hidden gems and points of interest throughout the city, one must-see landmark for visitors – day or night – is the iconic Skydance Bridge.
Arriving late in the afternoon, we parked on SW Second Street before heading south on foot through Scissortail Park, named after Oklahoma’s state bird – the scissor-tailed flycatcher. Our destination was the 380-foot-long pedestrian Skydance Bridge that spans I-40 and connects the north (40-acre) and south (30-acre) portions of the park. Opened in 2012, the state bird also inspired the bridge’s design with its striking V-shaped steel sculpture towering nearly 200 feet above the walkway, resembling the flycatcher’s distinctive forked tail feathers.

After admiring the bridge, we continued through the park and surrounding area waiting for sunset since the bridge is especially stunning when lit by LED lights during the evening. But there was no shortage of dazzling sights to fill the remaining daylight hours, including a walk around a lake with surrounding trees teeming with colorful chirping birds. Rental pedal boats, canoes, and kayaks glided slowly over the water as their occupants absorbed the relaxing view dominated by Oklahoma City’s tallest building. The sleek 50-story Devon Tower, also completed in 2012, is a skyline scene stealer with its reflective glass exterior. The Vast Restaurant occupies the top two floors offering both meals “sourced from local producers” and spectacular views of the city.
Myriad Botanical Gardens, just a couple of blocks north of the park off Reno Street, was intriguing. Since originally conceived by city leaders in the late 1960s, the 17-acre plot most recently underwent an $11 million renovation in 2022 and features immaculate landscaping, a children’s garden, a restaurant area, fountains, sculptures, and the dazzling Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory encased in a shell of over 3,000 translucent acrylic panels housing an impressive exotic plant collection.
The “Taking Flight: Light as a Feather” art piece, installed 2 years ago at the north end of Scissortail Park, was a delightful surprise find. The 6-ton 31-foot-tall metal sculpture is the artist’s vision of a delicately curved feather gently floating earthward. Stunning any time – and especially at night when fiber optic lights illuminate its intricate details – the sculpture truly comes to life just prior to sunset when we happened to walk past. As the sun hung in the darkening sky behind the sculpture, its dying rays filtered through the figure highlighting the steel bars comprising the feather’s ribs, offering an inspiring picture-perfect moment we were lucky to experience.
For many visitors, however, the star of Scissortail Park will be the illuminated Skydance Bridge straddling the busy Interstate below. The remotely controlled lights, programmable for holidays and special events, displayed a vibrant deep blue glow during our visit, dramatically highlighting the structure’s sweeping design. But the color varies from night to night. When viewed from the bridge’s south end and set against the backdrop of city lights, it was the perfect conclusion to our 2-mile urban nature walk around Oklahoma City.

Nick Thomas teaches at Auburn University at Montgomery in Alabama and has written features, columns, and interviews for many newspapers and magazines. His hiking column describes short trails, hikes, and walks from around the country that seniors might enjoy while traveling.
Visit www.ItsAWonderfulHike.com.