Author: Bonnie Polak

January Issue of The Trail Mix

Posted on by Bonnie Polak

In This Issue:

The State of the Woods
Happy New Year! There are so many things to be thankful for in 2022 as well as to be excited about for the coming year. CEO Steve Dickie gives insight into all the happenings at Trinity Woods. Additionally, Chaplain Weldon Tisdale, showcases the works of Dr. Martin Luther King and his dedication to service.

Trinity Woods 2023 Member Council.

We also announce the January STARS Employee of the Month – Sherry!

January Wellness
Thank goodness there are 31 days in January because this month is full of programs! From Book Club to to concerts to Supper and a Show, you won’t want to miss a thing! Did we also mention all the fitness groups and classes to try? Make sure you check out the January events calendar.

New Neighbors
Meet Mike and Kathy, Shirley, Cullen, and Nancy!

Download the January issue of The Trail Mix

December Issue of The Trail Mix

Posted on by Bonnie Polak

In This Issue:

It’s Christmas Time at Trinity Woods
Seasons Greetings! You’re invited to Christmas in the Woods. Our annual holiday tradition that puts everyone in the Christmas spirit. This year the event is scheduled for Thursday, December 8th.

Trinity Woods is seeking Board Nominations.

We also announce the December STARS Employees of the Month – Mandie!

December Wellness
There are several special services to highlight the holiday – Christmas Service hosted by Boston Avenue and New Year’s Eve Service. Additionally this year brings lots of opportunities for music and holiday tunes. Mark your calendar for all the events, from sing-a-longs to piano concerts you will not want to miss anything this month.

New Neighbors
Meet Bill and Aneta!

December Availability
We are featuring the Magnolia floor plan in Crestwood. Click here for more information!

Download the December issue of The Trail Mix

November Issue of The Trail Mix

Posted on by Bonnie Polak

In This Issue:

Celebrating Trinity Woods Veterans
This month we highlight those who serve and have served our country with honor – American veterans. Every year Trinity Woods takes time to celebrate and thank these very special people, both men and women who have served, with a special program. The event this year will be held Friday, November 11 at 2 p.m. in the Fleming Center.

Make sure you check the new name of the Bargain Basement – The Treasure Chest!

We also announce the November STARS Employees of the Month – Michael and Anderson!

November Wellness
As the holidays approach Jennifer Rawlings, VP of Wellness, shares tips for managing stress and keeping fit. There are also several featured events this months – Conversation with Chief Wendell Franklin, Dancing with Michael Loman and a Thanksgiving Reception!

New Neighbors
Meet Sharon, Dennis and Norma, and Jean!

November Availability
We are featuring the Maple floor plan in Crestwood. Click here for more information!

Download the November issue of The Trail Mix

October STAR of the Month

Posted on by Bonnie Polak

Stephanie Lieb – Housekeeping

» Start Date: May 2017
» Born: Torrance, CA
» Raised: Gardena, CA and Tulsa, OK
» Education: Will Rogers High School and Community Care College
» Wanted to be as a Kid: Veterinarian or Lawyer
» Favorite Sport: Football
» Described by Friends: Strong, smart, resilient and kind.
» Hobbies: Diamond paintings and crafts
» First Job: Dietary Aide
» Family Recipe: Deviled eggs or Great Grandma’s Baked Beans
» Favorite Book: Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls
» Family: Married with four boys
» What her supervisor says: “Stephanie does her job well and cares about the members she serves. She is an asset to Trinity Woods and our team” – Cathy Green, Director of Housekeeping

October Issue of The Trail Mix

Posted on by Bonnie Polak

In This Issue:

Tranquility Wellness Spa
Are you looking for a more tranquil life? Well look no further – the Tranquility Wellness Spa is just the place. This state-of-the-art spa allows residence to freshen up their hair, get a manicure or pedicure and for real relaxation a massage. This month we are also offering a grief Workshop for people looking for support through any type of loss. We also announce the October STARS Employees of the Month – Stephanie and Kelley!

October Wellness
We are excited to extend an invitation to community members and friends to the Annual Trinity Woods Trunk or Treat event scheduled for October 28. October will host many events from concerts, book clubs, pickleball and Fall Festival!

New Neighbors
Meet Dennis and Phil and Lela!

October Availability
This month we announced an amazing Year End Special for the Felt House. Click here for more information!

Download the October issue of The Trail Mix

Welcome Alec Davis!

Posted on by Bonnie Polak

We are excited to introduce the newest member of the Trinity Woods Sales Team, Alec Davis. He is originally from Bixby, OK. He is a graduate of Northeastern State University in Tahlequah with a degree in
business administration. While he is new to senior living, Alec has over 18 years of experience with his last employer where he was in sales for eight years, then promoted to acquisitions. Alec is married to his wife, Jenny, and they have two sons, who attend Union Public Schools. He spends most of his spare time getting the boys to their music lessons and lacrosse events. Alec enjoys his family time and loves to run, bike, remodel his home, and work on his 1977 Datsun (his first car). Please feel free to reach out to
Alec and welcome him to the Trinity Woods neighborhood.

Favorite Sport: Lacrosse
First Job: Chuck E. Cheese
One Meal Forever: Pizza
Friends Describe: Enthusiastic, dynamic and loud
Favorite Holiday: Easter
Collects: Bison
Favorite Quote: “Be curious, not judgmental” Walt Whitman (via Ted Lasso)
Fun Fact: He was a background actor in Killers of the Flower Moon.

Putt Putt Go!

Posted on by Bonnie Polak

We are excited to showcase the newly replaced putting green located southwest of the Spann
Wellness Center. We worked with Celebrity Greens to completely redesign the area. The slope of
the green has been adjusted for a more enjoyable putting experience. Additionally, the entire area has
been relandscaped and a sitting area has been added. We are also looking forward to the addition of
the indoor golf simulator that has been ordered and will be installed in the coming months. The golfers on
campus are sure to enjoy hitting the links all year long.

Inspiring the Workforce of Tomorrow

Posted on by Bonnie Polak

By Jacob Will, VP of Health Services

The concept of the Trinity Woods CNA Student Internship Program began back in 2019, just when COVID-19 had just started to create interruptions. And while the program has faced obstacles, we are proud to say that after more than two years it is going strong and changing lives. Initially when Trinity
Woods collaborated with Nathan Hale High the objective was to provide an experience that would certify students as Nursing Aides (CNA) and provide a paid internship in our Healthcare Households during a semester.

We now work with two different schools – Nathan Hale and Union High Schools. This year we plan to offer four students (per semester) this internship opportunity but there is always space to expand if needed. The internship is divided into two parts, the certification class and then the onsite training here at Trinity Woods. Over the 10-12 week period the students work side by side with their mentors in the Health Center.

The immediate goal of the program is to introduce the students to the person centered care model at Trinity Woods and inspire a career path that will encourage them to advance their clinical education from CNA to Certified Medication Aide and ultimately to Licensed Practical Nurse and Registered Nurse. The long-term goal of the program is the development of a dedicated workforce committed to improving the quality of care of elders. We hope to empower students to explore their passions through individualized
educational opportunities supported by meaningful relationships. The strategy enables students to work outside the school walls and to guide students to develop self advocacy and self-reliance.

Since the beginning of the program Trinity Woods has hosted 19 students into the program. Of those 19, 10 students completed the program and were offered positions at Trinity Woods. Seven of those elected to accept positions at Trinity Woods.

As we look ahead, we are filled with gratitude for the donors who funded the internships. This program has been fully funded by the generosity of others. If you are interested in sponsoring an intern for the Fall semester, the cost is $2,800 and the results are priceless. For more information on helping
these amazing young people contact Bonnie Polak at 918.346.6639 or bpolak@trinitywoodstulsa.com. Truly, the best is yet to come!

September Issue of The Trail Mix

Posted on by Bonnie Polak

In This Issue:

Inspiring the Workforce of Tomorrow
Learn more about the Trinity Woods Student Internship Program. We are proud that after two year, and one pandemic, the program is still going strong and the students are still being inspired by serving elders. Trinity Woods is showcasing this unique and innovated program that changes lives. We also announce the September STARS Employee of the Month – Dorothy! And meet the new faces at Trinity Woods – Jerome Steele in Finance and Alec Davis in the Sales Office.

September Wellness
We are excited to extend an invitation to community members and friends to the Annual Trinity Woods Health & Wellness Fair! Come learn about offerings on campus and what is available from the surrounding community. The Annual Health & Wellness Fair will be held on Thursday, September 15th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Community Life Center.

New Neighbors
Meet Rita and Oakley!

September Availability
This month we are showcasing the Crestwood residences. Contact us to learn more about some special offers that are currently available. Click here for more information!

Download the September issue of The Trail Mix

Trinity Woods Online Logo Shop

Posted on by Bonnie Polak

We are excited to announce the Trinity Woods Logo Shop! Community members can now show their Trinity Woods spirit. The website will be live through Sunday, August 21. Items purchased will be ready for pick up at the September Town Hall, scheduled for September 9. For questions about ordering TW merchandise contact Heidi Garrett at 918.346.6671.

To access the website click here!

August Issue of The Trail Mix

Posted on by Bonnie Polak

In This Issue:

Celebrating One Year for the Community Life Center
It has been one year since we opened the Trinity Woods Community Life Center. This space has allowed us to truly bring together our community in so many ways. We are excited to host “The Big Show” to celebrate this special anniversary with lots of performers and fun! We announce the August STARS Employees of the Month – Clarence and Amy!

August Wellness
This month we finish out our summer school schedules with Japanese Culture, Jewelry Making and Recycling. We also are excited to announce the new Biodex Balance System to our therapy program. We also have the Eicher Thursday concert for the music lovers in the neighborhood!

New Neighbors
Meet Bob and Toni!

August Availability
This month we are showcasing the Patio Homes residences. Click here for more information!

Download the August issue of The Trail Mix

July Issue of The Trail Mix

Posted on by Bonnie Polak

In This Issue:

Summer School at Trinity Woods
We are excited to showcase the lifelong learning that is happening through the Trinity Woods Summer School programs. These classes are taught by our very own community members. We have a variety of different options sure to pique everyone’s interests. We announce the July STARS Employees of the Month – Cathy and Laura!

July Wellness
This month we welcome Lori Fullbright from Tulsa’s Channel 6, will tell us about the latest cons, frauds, and scams. We also have several concerts for all the music lovers in the neighborhood – Amt Cottingham and Eicher Thursday!

New Neighbors
Meet Donna and Carson and Tom!

July Availability
This month we are showcasing the residences in Crestwood. Click here for more information!

Download the July issue of The Trail Mix

June Issue of The Trail Mix

Posted on by Bonnie Polak

In This Issue:

Good Samaritan – Paving the Way
This month we talk about being the Good Samaritan for your neighbor. We also celebrate 10 years of wellness at Trinity Woods. We look back at what we have achieve and honor those who began the journey with when we opened Crestwood. Join us for a Crestwood birthday party on June 10th! We announce the May STARS Employee of the Month – Rosal!

May Wellness
We announce Wendell Franklin, Tulsa Chief of Police, as the special guest for the annual Men’s Shindig. Featured events include a trip to Oklahoma City, Don Irwin piano concert, Richard Miller guitar concert and Book Club with Mary Helen Stanley, a community favorite.

New Neighbors
Meet Erna and Linda!

June Availability
This month we are showcasing the brand new Villa that is available. Click here for more information!

Download the June issue of The Trail Mix

May Issue of The Trail Mix

Posted on by Bonnie Polak

In This Issue:

Celebrating the Neighborly Way of Life
This month we explore what make the Trinity Woods neighborhood special – what are you waiting for? You won’t want to miss the article on Pickleball the fast growing sport in the US. We also celebrate the May STARS Employees of the Month – Karen and Tim!

May Wellness
We are brining back Spring Fling! A great afternoon with fellowship, fun, and food! Featured events include a trip to Pawnee, Lyndon Myer Piano Concert, and Eicher Thursday a community favorite.

New Neighbors
Meet Betty and Evelyn!

May Availability
This month we are showcasing the Maple Floor Plan in Crestwood. Click here for more information!

Download the May issue of The Trail Mix

Affordable Senior Living Community Option!

Posted on by Bonnie Polak

This month we are featuring the most affordable senior living community option in Tulsa – Trinity Woods’ Felt House apartments. Located in the heart of Tulsa, Trinity Woods is 40 acres of scenic beauty, full of life, and great neighbors. Discover a sense of community like no other. Trinity Woods is a place to grow, connect and truly live. Right now we are offering an April Special. The Felt House offers 1 bedroom and bathroom, living room, and kitchen but you also receive three meals a day. For this month only the entry fee is $5,000 (based on the standard plan) and $2,745 in monthly expenses – don’t forget this includes meals, housekeeping and maintenance! And $5000 toward moving expenses! Contact us for more info.

April Issue of The Trail Mix

Posted on by Bonnie Polak

In This Issue:

Memory Care Houses – A Year in Review
It has been one year since we opened the Marshall-Gaddy and Barnes memory care assisted living houses on campus. In this issue we hear from Memory Care Manager, Sadie Krywicki about what makes these houses so special. We also celebrate the April STARS Employees of the Month – Delisa and Japhari!

April Wellness
Trinity Woods announces the return of Meet the Chef! We also highlight all the Holy Week services on campus with special guest speakers. This month we several different concerts along with the book club.

New Neighbors
Meet Matt and Teilla; Don and Judy; and Betty!

Download the April issue of The Trail Mix

Volunteer for your Health

Posted on by Bonnie Polak

April is National Volunteering Month. Did you know that volunteering is a reciprocal act? The benefits of volunteering can be improving mental health, making new friends, gaining a sense of purpose and connectedness, as well as boosting your overall happiness! Volunteering also enhances the programs and offerings at Trinity Woods. We would not have the robust programming if it were not for the volunteers. Community participation is what makes Trinity Woods the premier place to be. Let me say “thank you for all your efforts and dedication!”

Even during the trying times of 2020 members found ways to volunteer on campus. Some of our long-standing opportunities were put on hold, some were able to be adapted throughout the year, and new opportunities were created. As we celebrate National Volunteer Month, we want to celebrate the 140 on campus volunteers from 2020.

Here are just some of the ways people volunteered:  Bargain Basement, Caring Mat-ters, Fifth Thursday, Food Committee, Health Center Volunteer, Holliman Center Volunteer, Event Help, Libraries, Manor Bears, Manor Mirror, Marketing Ambassadors, Member Council, Movie Nights, Needlecraft, Program Presenters/Organizers, Screenwatchers Guild, Worship and Spiritual Life, Pianists, Walk and Rollers, WAC, Thanksgiving, CLC Planning, Development, Spann Set-Up, Welcome Wednesday, and the Safety Committee. 

If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Irene Brown at 918-346-6614 or ibrown@trinitywoodstulsa.com.

Ways to Save Money

Posted on by Bonnie Polak

By Senior VP of Finance, Jim Ginther

In my line of work, people are always asking for finance tips…So here is my best advice –
START USING A BUDGET.

Budgeting is helpful when it comes to cutting expenses. Budgets require you to track
spending and set reasonable expectations for how much you spend. Here are my “best
tips” for saving money.

SHOP AROUND FOR AUTO AND HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE – When it comes
to different insurance products like auto and home insurance, you can easily save money if
you shop around and compare insurance from other providers.

CONSOLIDATE CREDIT CARD DEBT – The average credit card interest rate is over
16%, which means you could be saving big if you consolidated your credit card debt with
a 0% APR credit card or a personal loan. Balance transfer credit cards let you avoid interest for up to 21 months.

SWITCH CELL PHONE PROVIDERS – How much are you paying for your cell phone? Chances are good you could be paying less if you are willing to switch providers.

PLAN SEVERAL “NO SPEND” DAYS PER WEEK – Did you know that spending $27.40 a day adds up to $10,000 a year? Small purchases can add up quickly. Plan a few “no spend” days each week or a couple of weeks each month.

FINAL BUDGETING TIP – The number one rule in budgeting is, do not go over budget.

March STARS Employee of the Month

Posted on by Bonnie Polak

Harriet Zavala – LPN, Buehler Place
» Start Date: August 2021
» Born and Raised: Winchester, KY
» Wanted to be as a Kid: Teacher
» Favorite Sport: Basketball
» Hobbies: Knitting and Reading
» Favorite Book: Little Women
» Collects: Frogs and Gnomes
» Fun Fact: Used to be a correctional officer in Texas.
» What her supervisor says: “Harriet is compassionate about her work at Trinity Woods.
She is loving, kind and sensitive to her team and the residents. Harriet is devoted to her work,
and I can always count on her. I appreciate all that she does for our team.” Trina Yoder, Buehler
Household Manager


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