Oct. 1 will be a busy day for thousands of “stick-and-string” hunters in Oklahoma. That Saturday is when several archery hunting seasons will open across the state. Those seasons are:
* Deer archery, running through Jan. 15, 2023.
* Elk archery, on private lands through Jan. 15, 2023 (or until quota is met).
* Black bear archery, running through Oct. 16.
* Fall turkey archery, running through Jan. 15, 2023.
* Pronghorn antelope archery, running through Oct. 14.
The popularity of archery hunting continues to grow in Oklahoma. For the third year in a row, archery deer hunters set a record with 36,522 deer taken, which accounted for 31 percent of all deer harvested in the state last year.
The annual Game Harvest Survey (GHS), a scientific survey conducted by the Wildlife Department, has been tracking hunter metrics for decades. The GHS estimated that 117,216 archers took to the field this past season with a deer license in hand.
“Another off-season has come and gone. Big game hunters will be heading back to the woods come October 1st and have a lot to look forward to,” said Dallas Barber, Big Game Biologist with the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation.
“Populations are in good shape even amid the drought conditions that plagued much of the state during the summer. These first few weeks can be tough due to warm conditions, so archery hunters might place more effort in that first and last hour of legal shooting light.”
Barber said the early season is an ideal time to capitalize on antlerless deer opportunities. Why not fill the freezer before focusing on bagging that big buck?
According to the 2021-22 Big Game Harvest Report published in the September/October issue of Outdoor Oklahoma magazine, archery hunters took 16,097 antlerless deer compared to 20,425 antlered deer.
“Doe harvest is critical to keeping a herd healthy,” he said. “It’s again time for hunters to meet the challenge to let young bucks grow and take a doe.”
In southeastern Oklahoma, archery hunters took 66 black bears last year. Senior Wildlife Biologist Jeff Ford said the summer’s hot and dry conditions could make this year’s bear hunting more challenging.
“These conditions may affect the fall mast crop, making it harder to find some good bear sign in the woods. So concentrate on water resources to find sign. Bears will frequent watering holes when the weather is hot.
“I would say the most important thing … is to find an area with fresh bear sign and then just stay with it. Most successful bear hunters start early in the season, and you may have to sit all day.”
Ford suggests public land hunters should scout as early as possible for areas with acorns (preferably white oak), which are most preferred by bears. “The acorns will start falling around the first of October, and bears are going to be searching them out.”
Bear hunters (including lifetime license holders) must buy a bear license before the season opens, as those licenses will not be sold after Sept. 30.
For complete regulations — including required licenses, open areas, harvest quotas, and reporting requirements — consult the 2022-23 Oklahoma Fishing and Hunting Regulations online at www.wildlifedepartment.com, on the Go Outdoors Oklahoma mobile app or Apple or Android, or in print free at license dealers statewide.

The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program serves residents in nursing homes, assisted living centers and residential care homes. An Ombudsman helps to improve the quality of care and life for the residents. As a friendly visitor and advocate, the volunteer has many opportunities to be of service and enrich the lives of the residents.
Interested individuals must be willing to attend a two-day training to become a designated volunteer and spend a minimum of 2 hours per week in the facility for which they are assigned visiting and advocating for the residents. Additionally, volunteers must be able to attend a monthly meeting for on-going training and supervision and pass a national background check.
If you are interested in making a difference in the lives of those residents in Canadian, Cleveland, Logan or Oklahoma County, the next training is scheduled for October 10 & 11 (Monday and Tuesday) from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Areawide Aging Agency located at 4101 Perimeter Center Drive, Suite 310, Oklahoma City, OK. Both sessions must be completed to become a designated volunteer.
For more information or to RSVP for the upcoming training, contact Dana Crum, LTC Ombudsman Supervisor at (405) 942-8500 to RSVP. There are limited slots available, RSVP today.

By Nick Thomas

While best known for joining the cast of the popular CBS spy series “Mission: Impossible” for the last two seasons in the early 70s, Lynda Day George became something of a minor horror movie icon before retiring from acting in the late 80s.
In the horror realm, she portrayed characters threatened by an army of ants (“Ants,” 1977), a pack of wild dogs (“Day of the Animals,” 1977), a demonic force (“Beyond Evil,” 1980), a haunted mirror (“Fear No Evil,” 1969), a chainsaw-wielding killer (“Pieces,” 1982), and even a deranged undertaker’s assistant in “Mortuary,” her final film in 1983.
“I enjoyed doing them, but I also love comedy and drama,” said Day George from her home in Sequim, Washington.
Off-screen, the actress also experienced considerable drama, although horror might be a more appropriate description of her personal tragedies including the loss of two husbands – one succumbing to cancer and another from a sudden heart attack.
Actor Christopher George, Day George’s second husband of some 13 years, died just weeks after the release of “Mortuary” which co-starred the husband-and-wife acting team. She continued to guest-star in another half-dozen TV shows during the remainder of the decade before officially retiring, eventually remarrying in 1990 and later moving to Washington.
“After Chris died, I needed to take care of my family,” she explained. “I’ve also lost my mother, father, step-dad, and brother, so there’s been a lot of loss to deal with. But right now, I’m feeling great living here in Washington and have a wonderful life with my daughter and friends. My house is between the ocean and an inlet, and I love it here. I do a lot of gardening and I’m involved with many local groups including the theater.”
Despite the tragedies, Lynda has retained her genial nature and joyful spirit and still sports her trademark long blonde hair. Her positive attitude and sense of humor have clearly helped her survive the personal hardships as well as her past macabre movies such as the gruesome theme of “Day of the Animals,” which depicted the cast being mauled by enraged birds, dogs, wolves, bears, rats, and snakes.
She remembers filming was periodically paused when fellow actors including Leslie Nielsen, Michael Ansara, and Richard Jaeckel would break out in laughter.
“We just had so much fun making it,” she recalled. “Michael was a terrific, funny guy. Richard was a treasure, just a sweetheart. Every time I saw him after that he was just a big pile of sugar. And Leslie Nielsen could make you laugh at the drop of a hat – he was a one-man riot!”
In one scene, crazed dogs were required to leap through a cabin window and attack the characters. “I could be petting one, then the trainer would give a command and it would take off like a shot or become threatening and begin growling. They were terrific animal actors.”
An animal lover herself who shares her home with several dogs and cats, Day George not only enjoyed working with the animals but, as a longtime environmentalist, embraced the movie for bringing attention to ozone layer depletion, a significant environmental concern in the 70s (and bizarrely responsible for the creatures’ aggression in the film’s script).
While the concerns of ozone depletion have been replaced by global warming worries, Day George remains optimistic about the planet’s future despite widespread gloomy predictions.
“We have so many extraordinary people who are teaching us more and more about our planet. Bless them all.”
Nick Thomas teaches at Auburn University at Montgomery, in Alabama, and has written features, columns, and interviews for numerous magazines and newspapers. See www.getnickt.org.

Story by Darl Devault, Contributing Editor

The free 2022 Second Half Expo begins at 8:30 am Saturday, October 22nd, and finishes at 2 p.m. for the second year at National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City.
Billed as Something for Everyone Above Age 50, the expo is tailored to people in the “Second Half” of their lives. This is for those looking to connect with the resources needed to live the way they have always imagined. More than 120 of Oklahoma’s senior-related businesses will be present, providing education and demonstrations of their products and services.
The day will be loaded with fun activities, including free educational seminars, drawings for prizes, live music and much more.
“We firmly believe the senior years can be lived with dignity and purpose with the right guidance and resources,” said Bob Loudermilk, event manager. “We strive to support seniors and their adult children, honoring and assisting their aging parents.”
This year’s free two-hour panel session: THE 50+ YEARS – How to Navigate the Changing Landscape, offers eight community thought leaders sharing their expertise. This timely information on wealth management, senior housing, estate planning, health & fitness above age 50, tax & insurance planning, downsizing, Second-Half entrepreneurship and more is invaluable for seniors.
The panel session will begin at 9 a.m. with coffee and continental breakfast items provided. Seating is limited. Please RSVP to reserve your seat at https://secondhalfexpo.com/the-panel/. Details of topics and bios of the eight panelists are available on this page.
An example of the quality of the panelists offering their insights into living a vibrant and productive Second Half early Saturday morning is someone familiar to many Oklahomans.
Many seniors have seen Mark Bravo, 64, help broadcast the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon live on local KFOR-Channel 4 television since its inception in 2001. With Bravo’s broadcast journalism training from the University of Oklahoma and his experience as a marathoner, he describes the events from the runners’ point of view. He offers background both on the elite and “ordinary” runners.
“I’m humbled to be a part of this race, and to offer color commentary on race day gives me a chance to provide insight into road racing,” Bravo said in a recent interview. “I describe the mindset of all levels of athletes who participate and the importance of this race to Oklahoma, not only in April but all year long. I’m fortunate to have much engagement with athletes of all abilities throughout the year. The connection to the community has made it one of my great pleasures to help document every OKC Memorial Marathon.”
He actively supports the race throughout the year and on marathon weekend. From hosting the event’s two-day Health and Fitness Expo to inviting legends of the sport to the race, Bravo has volunteered thousands of hours over the years.
He takes great pride in ensuring its national reputation as the “Run to Remember,” leaving participants with two distinct emotions. The first is to bring together runners and spectators from around the world to honor those who were killed, those who survived, and those who were changed forever in the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building.
Another source of his pride in this race is Bravo has helped bring many extras to the runners and walkers not available at most marathons. Bravo says this makes each person feel like an “elite” participant because of the on-course support from a massive outpouring of cheering and volunteering by OKC residents.
One of these extras for participants is interaction with Hall of Famers from the sport at the Expo. Many of these famous marathoners were at the forefront of the “running boom” in America in the ’70s and ’80s. These marathon luminaries speak about their experiences in and out of the sport and share their expertise to help ease runners’ minds before the race.
Bravo is a freelance writer, broadcaster and nationally-noted road race announcer who has finished almost 50 marathons in his 40-plus years in the sport. He speaks at countless sports-focused venues on building momentum in one’s life. Bravo has coached runners for the last two decades, and his view of mental and physical wellness is detailed in his well-received book: “Momentum: 77 Observations Toward a Life Well Lived.”
Bravo’s definition of an “athlete” has less to do with physical prowess but more about a few principles. “It’s viewing the world and yourself through a ‘kinder, gentler’ lens, an always existent ‘stick-to-it-iveness,’ strong view that the glass is ‘three-quarters full, not half-empty,’ and an ever-present emphasis on gratitude,” Bravo said. “Through these principles and how we share them, each of us raises the calibration of the entire world!”
He stays closely involved with the local running community in his position as manager of OK RUNNER OKC in downtown Oklahoma City. He and his wife, Leslie, live in Edmond, Oklahoma.

by Greg Schwem

At last check, the time spent waiting for a chance to file past Queen Elizabeth’s coffin was estimated at 24 hours. Prior to her burial, the time spent waiting to file past Queen Elizabeth’s coffin was estimated at 24 hours, a figure made slightly higher when Piers Morgan tried cutting in line.
Note, I have no proof Morgan actually did that; but the man seems capable, doesn’t he?
It’s probably a good thing the Queen was officially laid to rest yesterday. Had the public viewing at Westminster Hall lasted any longer, King Charles III may have been lying alongside his mum by the time some reached the queue’s front.
As I watched new reports of the most publicized funeral since, well, since Elizabeth’s former daughter-in-law, Princess Diana, I wondered what would make anyone stand on their feet that long, simply to spend a few moments reflecting in front of a flag-draped casket? Knowing my bladder’s limitations, I would be forced to seek out a kindly looking British chap and ask that he hold my place while I ducked into a public loo. Sadly, I would have to repeat this process 24 times.
Then the answer came to me: The queen wasn’t a fan of selfies.
Face it, when a famous person dies, social media immediately becomes littered with posts from users recounting the time they met the dearly departed, accompanied of course by a photo as proof. This year I often felt like I was the ONLY person who didn’t meet Olivia Newton-John. Or Gilbert Gottfried. Or Vin Scully. Or Madeleine Albright. The list goes on and on.
Don’t get me wrong, I have taken my share of celebrity selfies. When Magic Johnson, Pat Riley, or, heaven forbid, Bruce Springsteen enter immortality, I will be frantically scrolling my phone, eventually finding proof of my encounter, which I will post on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook along with the obligatory affirmation that, yes, all were nice, gracious and accommodating.
But, as I write this, it’s been more than a week since Elizabeth’s death and I have yet to see one photo of her with a random individual who encountered her in a restaurant, aboard a flight or in a public park and summoned the nerve to hold up an iPhone and say, “Your Majesty, would you mind?”
For someone who ruled over 50 countries, public access to Elizabeth seemed remarkably limited. One never saw her riding a bike like Joe Biden or, like his predecessor, crashing a wedding at one of her properties and attempting to justify it with a goofy thumbs-up gesture. Then again, I’m not sure Windsor Castle is for rent. I hope not, as I have two unmarried daughters who may be eyeing it as the ultimate destination wedding site.
I have seen photos of the queen with non-family members, but most were as famous, if not more so, than she. When your name is Mick Jagger or Elton John, and you are summoned to Buckingham Palace to be knighted, then I guess there are multiple opportunities for selfies.
It’s rare, but occasionally I will see a selfie of a non-celebrity with Pope Francis, or one of his predecessors. It’s not that difficult, considering tickets to a papal audience are free and the Pope has been known to wander into the crowds following masses. One just needs a readily available phone and a little luck.
Since Elizabeth’s death, much has been made about the sheltered life she led after her coronation in 1953. I saw more photos of her with horses and corgis than I did with people. Charles, take note, you may not be the most popular monarch — you’ve already been met with shouts of, “Not my King” — but the desire to be close to your mother, even in death, shows that people still love the Royal Family.
Maybe it’s time to reciprocate. Ditch the parades. Instead, take an unannounced stroll through Hyde Park wearing jeans, sneak up behind a canoodling couple and ask how their day is going. Visit Wimbledon next summer and sit with the fans, as opposed to in the Royal Box. Cheer the loudest when phenom Carlos Alcaraz rips a backhand winner. Hell, start the wave. And yes, pose for selfies.
You will get thousands of “likes.”
(Greg Schwem is a corporate stand-up comedian and author of two books: “Text Me If You’re Breathing: Observations, Frustrations and Life Lessons From a Low-Tech Dad” and the recently released “The Road To Success Goes Through the Salad Bar: A Pile of BS From a Corporate Comedian,” available at Amazon.com. Visit Greg on the web at www.gregschwem.com.
You’ve enjoyed reading, and laughing at, Greg Schwem’s monthly humor columns in Senior Living News. But did you know Greg is also a nationally touring stand-up comedian? And he loves to make audiences laugh about the joys, and frustrations, of growing older. Watch the clip and, if you’d like Greg to perform at your senior center or senior event, contact him through his website at www.gregschwem.com)

Story and photo by Bobby Anderson, Staff Writer

Living decisions for seniors can be complicated all by themselves.
Throw in an unexpected illness or injury and the situation can quickly spiral out of control.
After seeing these situations play out over and over and the turmoil they create for families, local senior living leaders have come together to provide awareness through education.
Melissa Mahaffey, MHA, serves as the executive director of Tealridge Retirement Community and is one member of a group focused on bringing information to those needing it the most.
“We want people to know we’re in this industry together and we don’t necessarily have to be owned and operated by the same company to put on great resource events and work together for the betterment of the larger community,” Mahaffey said. “We just want to provide a resource. We partner because we feel like we have the same type of philosophy in terms of we want the community to know and what some of the options are.”
Communities like Tealridge and Legend at Jefferson’s Garden have long focused on giving residents just the right amount of personalized support to enhance independence.
But in an industry that can have an array of service levels people can quickly get lost.
“They hear one word and they automatically go down a rabbit hole. It’s educating on all levels,” said Tealridge Retirement Counselor Kristen Moss.
Finding information on those levels is the focus of a series of upcoming progressive tours and educational presentations.
“I think we want to encourage people not to start looking when there is a crisis but be educated prior because they could help their family, their neighbor or someone within their church,” Mahaffey said. “That’s why we need people to understand we are offering this.”
“During each progressive tour stop people will get to touch and feel what we do here. We want people not to be afraid to ask questions. We encourage everyone over the age of 60 to come.”
Unfortunately, decisions regarding the next level of care often occur within 24 to 48 hours prior to a loved one needing care. All too often an injury or illness has landed a loved one in the hospital and the determination has been made that further care is needed after discharge.
What shape and form that care comes in is often a mystery to those charged with making a decision on behalf of their loved one.”
Moss said the scenario plays out time and again, forcing people into crisis mode.
“Then somebody ends up in the hospital and it’s go time,” Moss said. “It’s Wednesday and the hospital is going to release on Friday and we have to go somewhere.”
And then there’s the issue of cost and where funding will come from.
Skilled nursing days are limited under Medicare.
Independent and assisted living costs are excluded altogether.
“Education is so important because they don’t know,” said Kristi Wilhelm, sales director at Legend at Jefferson’s Gardens in Edmond. “I had a family that literally walked into my building and she realized mom is exhausted from taking care of dad and mom’s fixing to go downhill if she doesn’t do something.
“She didn’t know what independent living is. She didn’t know what assisted living is. I was with them for two hours going through all the steps.
“She was so relieved I educated her and explained everything to her.”
And learning that information when not facing a deadline can make the difference between the right decision and a decision for right now.
“And a lot of times people in that emergency, the first place they go to they’ll end up moving in and it might not actually be the right fit for them,” Wilhelm said. “Eventually they start shopping again because they’re not happy because mom isn’t happy. That’s why it’s all about education so it’s not the last minute.”
Mahaffey said the program is unique to the metro but expects it to expand quickly because at the end of the day it comes down to the right fit for both the resident and the residence. “I always tell people when they come to visit our community know that if I’m not the one you chose, I’m still here as a resource to help you in any way. They appreciate it so much,” Wilhelm said.
Tealridge Retirement Community is a full-service retirement community located at 2100 NE 140th Edmond.
Legend at Jefferson’s Garden specializes in assisted living and is located at 15401 N Pennsylvania Ave in Edmond.
For more information about Tealridge Retirement Community visit http://www.tealridge.com

Story and photos by Eddie Roach

VillagesOKC received a $5,000 grant from Force 50 Foundation to be used to implement a veterans initiative called One-On-One Honor.
“This grant will be used in our pilot program seeking to bring awareness of the importance of bringing honor and patriotism into everyday life,” said Marilyn Olson, VillagesOKC Executive Director.
The program will honor veterans in assisted living and low-income senior housing. Identified veterans will be honored in a ceremony at their facility and receive a veteran cap, service pin, photo, and certificate. The presentation will be conducted by a fellow veteran.
“VillagesOKC is part of the annual Vietnam War Era Pinning Ceremony each March 29 at the Oklahoma History Center. But, this One-On-One Honor program awards those who are in assisted living communities and cannot attend the annual pinning ceremony,” Olson said.
Gary W. Banz, Force 50 Foundation Executive Director, said the grant application was open to any of the foundation’s partner agencies. VillagesOKC was selected because its mission of connecting older adults to opportunities and services in the community is like Force 50 Foundation’s objectives.
“We value a ‘One Mission, One Force’ network as the best way to connect organizations serving veterans,” Banz said. “What we are all about is providing a platform for information sharing, connecting veterans to the various support opportunities.” He explained that while there are many organizations offering veterans services, vets don’t always know where to look.
VillagesOKC embraces a similar mission of connecting older adults to programs for learning, planning, and serving – providing a plan for aging that connects a community.
Gaylene Stiles, who submitted the grant for VillagesOKC, said the project also will engage Southern Nazarene University students from the SNU Veteran Center, providing an opportunity for students of all ages to observe and participate.
VillagesOKC is a nonprofit that connects adults ages 55+ in the greater Oklahoma City metro area to valuable resources that empower them to remain independent and age gracefully. VillagesOKC consists of virtual neighborhoods of volunteers who share vital connections, education, and programming with members to improve their quality of life.

story by Bobby Anderson, Staff Writer

For many seniors, there’s excitement knowing their hard years of work have finally paid off and it’s time to reap the healthcare benefits Medicare affords.

But that excitement can quickly turn into heartache and bad decisions if they can’t navigate the mountain of information in front of them come enrollment time.

“With Medicare as complicated as it is, being able to make an informed decision really requires – I think – having a face-to-face conversation with somebody who can go through all of those things with you, explain the differences in a simplified way and in a way you can understand,” said Christina Sibley, co-owner of Sibley Insures.

Sibley Insures isn’t an insurance company but a company that works for its insurance clients.

There’s no high-pressure sales.

The primary goal is to educate and empower clients to make informed decisions.
Serving OKC, Tulsa, and beyond, Sibley Insures offers products from some of the top Medicare plans in the country to smaller local plans.

And those plans all come into focus in the next few weeks.

The last few months of the year the Sibleys’ business goes into overdrive with Medicare enrollment beginning October 15 and running through December 7.

Behind her, the whole way is husband, Steve, who brings 17 years of financial services expertise and 36 years of military service to the business.

“Education is extremely important,” Christina said. “I came into this business five years ago as a professional educator. Even people who are on Medicare and have been on Medicare for some time often don’t get a thorough education. They get information in the mail.”
Most people choose the jobs they want to pursue.

For Christina Sibley, the job chose her.

Christina has been a healthcare provider for more than 20 years. She’s taught medical assisting and phlebotomy.

She’s worked in doctor’s offices, labs, hospitals, and home care, always with a passion for her patients.

But it was a suggestion from her husband that brought it all together.

“I feel like God put me on this Earth for a reason,” she said. “I have a specific set of skills, experience, and education that allow me to do things for people, they have put me in a unique position to be able to do things for people that others just don’t have the ability to do.”

Through Sibley Insures, Christina brings those skills to bear teaching thousands of Oklahomans what healthcare protection truly means.

She says there’s so much consumer education lacking when it comes to commercial products that are required when you sign up for Medicare.

Drug plans, supplements, and Medicare Advantage programs are often foreign territory for consumers.

“They’re not going to get a thorough education unless they sit down with somebody who can walk them through the basics and all of their choices and explain the pros and cons of the things they can do,” Christina said. “Medicare is not a one size fits all. It’s very customized to that individual’s needs. People don’t know what they don’t know.”

If you’re turning 65 in the next few months, you’ll have a lot of company. An average of 10,000 Americans turn 65 every day.

For most, it also means that you’re eligible to enroll in Medicare for the first time and most likely have a lot of questions.

As you prepare for Medicare, there’s a lot to know.

You do not have to be retired to get Medicare. The retirement age for full Social Security benefits, called “full retirement age” is slowly rising to age 67, but you can still get full Medicare benefits at age 65, even if you’re not going to collect Social Security benefits. Some under age 65 qualify, through Social Security disability, after 24 months.

Sibley Insures has expanded over the years to better serve clients, most recently moving into an agency role that allows for greater outreach.

“We now have the ability to bring in and mentor agents who do what we do,” Steve Sibley said. “What we do with Medicare is very much an advocate-based focus.”

And that focus is on display in their office, at any one of a number of free seminars, or sometimes in the comfort of your own home.

“It’s crucial for people to talk to an agent or broker,” Christina said. “What we do is work for our client, to look across plans and across products to find what’s going to be most appropriate for them and their particular needs.”

And with hundreds of thousands of Oklahoma Medicare eligible, that time begins now.

“We only have seven weeks to get everyone enrolled.”

For more information or to visit with Christina and Steve, visit: https://www.sibleyinsures.com/

The COVID-19 pandemic has taken a toll on everyone, especially those who suffered loss due to the virus. Nothing can replace loved ones, but FEMA may be able to help ease the financial burden that comes with that loss.
Those who had funeral COVID-19 related funeral expenses can apply for FEMA Funeral Assistance by calling 844-684-6333. Phone lines are open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. CDT, Monday through Friday with Multilingual services available. Applicants requiring relay services, such as a videophone, Innocaption or CapTel, must provide FEMA a specific number assigned to that service. It is important that FEMA is able to contact applicants.
There is currently no deadline to apply for aid.
The criteria to qualify for assistance includes:
* The person died of COVID-19. * The death occurred in the U.S. * The applicant paid for funeral, burial or cremation costs after Jan. 20, 2020.
* The applicant is a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, lawful permanent resident or qualified refugee. The deceased does not need to meet these qualifications.
When applicants call for assistance, they need to provide the following information:
* Social security number * Date of birth * Current mailing address and phone number * The deceased date of birth * Location of deceased death * Information about any funeral or burial insurance policies * Information about other funeral assistance received, such as donations or CARES Act grants
Eligibility determinations are based on the submission of all required documents. Additional information and answers to frequently asked questions about the application process can be found on FEMA’s Funeral Assistance FAQ page here: https://www.fema.gov/disaster/coronavirus/economic/funeral-assistance/faq

“Americana: A Musical Tour of the USA” featuring Jonas Nordwall September 26, 7 p.m.–8:30 p.m. Oklahoma History Center, 800 Nazih Zuhdi Drive Oklahoma City, OK 73105. The fall performance of the Kilgen Organ series will feature organist Jonas Nordwall, presenting musical selections that follow the theme “Americana: A Musical Tour of the USA.”
Presente in Oklahoma! September 27, 11 a.m.–1 p.m. September 15 to October 15 is Hispanic American Heritage Month. To celebrate the significant contributions of Latinos in the state of Oklahoma, the OHS Multicultural Office is planning “Presente in Oklahoma!,” a panel discussion focusing on Hispanic history to be held at the Oklahoma History Center on Tuesday, September 27, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The panel will consist of historians, scholars, and representatives from Hispanic families with deep roots in Oklahoma.
Annual Quilt Show opens Pawnee Bill Ranch and Museum, 1141 Pawnee Bill Road Pawnee, OK 74058 Pawnee Bill Ranch and Museum will host its annual Quilt Show during the month of October, featuring heirloom and modern quilts from across the state. Cimarron Valley Quilt Guild and Pawnee Bill Quilt Guild members are instrumental in putting together this yearly event. The show opens on Saturday, October 1, and closes on Sunday, October 30.
Research Center Book Sale The Oklahoma Historical Society’s John and Eleanor Kirkpatrick Research Center will host its book sale Wednesday, October 5, through Saturday, October 8, at the Oklahoma History Center, located at 800 Nazih Zuhdi Drive in Oklahoma City. The sale is open from 10 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, and from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday. The sale will include books on a variety of topics, featuring many rare and out-of-print titles.
“History Never Dies” Halloween Carnival Oklahoma Territorial Museum and Carnegie Library, 406 East Oklahoma Avenue Guthrie, OK 73044. The Oklahoma Territorial Museum in Guthrie will host its “History Never Dies” Halloween Carnival on Saturday, October 29, from 5 to 7 p.m. This free, family-friendly event returns with a Hocus Pocus theme. At the two-hour event, families can enjoy carnival games, prizes, food, candy, and Halloween-themed activities both inside and outside of the museum.
Doaksville Historic Candlelight Tour Fort Towson Historic Site, HC 63, Box 1580 Fort Towson, OK 74735. Experience the history of southeastern Oklahoma at the annual Doaksville Candlelight Tours. Tours will be held Friday, October 7, and Saturday, October 8, beginning at 6:30 p.m., with the last tour departing at 10 p.m. A guide will take visitors on a 45-minute walking tour through the streets of this once prominent town. The venues on the tour will cover specific historic events in Doaksville’s history.
Quilting workshop with Martha Ray Sod House Museum, 4628 State Highway 8 Aline, OK 73716. Visit the Sod House Museum southeast of Aline for a quilting workshop on Saturday. The workshop will take place from 9 to 11 a.m. with instructor Martha Ray, and the cost is $5 per person. For more information, please contact Director Renee Trindle at 580-463-2441 or sodhouse@history.ok.gov.
History and Haunts at the Overholser October 8, 15, 22, 28, 6 p.m.–8 p.m. Visit the Henry and Anna Overholser Mansion for History and Haunts at the Overholser! The tours will begin with a brief introduction in the Overholser Mansion Carriage House followed by a rare glimpse inside the Henry and Anna Overholser Mansion after dark. See the home in its nighttime splendor, learn the history of the home and its former occupants, and discover why some say they are still roaming the halls! The tour will give time for guests to explore the historic home on their own. Tickets are $25 per person and each night is limited to 30 attendees, tickets are non-refundable. Purchase tickest online: https://www.preservationok.org/historyandhaunts
Folklife Festival Oklahoma History Center, 800 Nazih Zuhdi Drive Oklahoma City, OK 73105. On Saturday, October 15, the Oklahoma History Center will host the annual Folklife Festival. The Folklife Festival is designed to engage visitors with opportunities to experience other cultures and traditions. Visitors are there to participate in the activities, not just observe.
Will’s Cowboy Trader Days at the Ranch Will Rogers Birthplace Ranch, 9501 East 380 Road Oologah, OK 74053. On the third Saturday of the month from April to October, make the trip to the Will Rogers Birthplace Ranch in Oologah to take part in Will’s Cowboy Trader Days. See locally handcrafted and homemade items, saddles, cowboy hats, tack, boots, and a variety of work created by local artisans from October 15, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is FREE.
Cemetery Symbols: Carved in Stone Oklahoma History Center, 800 Nazih Zuhdi Drive Oklahoma City, OK 73105. Join the Oklahoma History Center to explore the meaning behind historic gravestones on Saturday, October 29, from 1 to 3 p.m. Gravestones and cemeteries are rich in a language of symbols. Symbols can be difficult to interpret because their meaning changes over time. By examining the grave markers, one can learn more than just the person’s name. This in-person class for ages 16 and up will provide the skills necessary to investigate the past through tombstones.
Ghost Stories Candlelight Tour Pawnee Bill Ranch and Museum, 1141 Pawnee Bill Road Pawnee, OK 74058. Visit the Pawnee Bill Ranch and Museum to take part in a Ghost Stories Candlelight Tour for one night only on Saturday, October 29, from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Guides will lead guests through an outdoor tour in the park telling spine-tingling, ghostly tales about Oklahoma, the surrounding area, and the Pawnee Bill Ranch. The tours will leave every 30 minutes from the museum building that night, so bundle up for cool weather. Admission is $5 per person.
Blacksmithing Demonstrations with the Saltfork Craftsmen November 5, Cherokee Strip Museum and Rose Hill School, 2617 West Fir Street Perry, OK 73077. Visit the Cherokee Strip Museum in Perry to watch the Saltfork Craftsmen give a Blacksmithing Demonstration in the blacksmith shop. The demonstration will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Guests can enjoy watching the craftsmen work and will have an opportunity for safe hands-on experiences. This event is for those who enjoy watching craftsmen at work, and for young and old alike to try their hand at the craft. The forge will be lighted at 10:00 am.
Cast-Iron Cooking class Chisholm Trail Museum and Horizon Hill, 605 Zellers Avenue Kingfisher, OK 73750. The Chisholm Trail Museum in Kingfisher will host a Cast-Iron Cooking class on Saturday, November 5, from noon to 4 p.m. In this casual, fun class, students will learn to care for and cook in cast-iron cookware. Participants will create a Dutch oven delight and participate in a group meal. The class will explore historical and modern recipes while learning backyard cooking skills. This class is restricted to children ages 10 and older with an adult.
Daughter of Dawn film screening at the Poncan Theatre November 6, 2 p.m.–3 p.m. Poncan Theatre, 104 East Grand Avenue Ponca City, OK 74601. On Sunday, November 6, at 2 p.m. the Pioneer Woman Museum and Statue will host a film screening of “The Daughter of Dawn” at the Poncan Theatre, located at 104 E. Grand Ave. in Ponca City. Rather than a set ticket price, patrons are encouraged to give a donation as admission to the screening. The program begins at 2 p.m.
Choctaw Code Talkers documentary film screening November 12, 1 p.m.–3 p.m. Oklahoma History Center, 800 Nazih Zuhdi Drive Oklahoma City, OK 73105. In honor of Native American Heritage Month, on Saturday, November 12, from 1 to 3 p.m., the Oklahoma History Center will screen the documentary of Choctaw Code Talkers. In 1918, although the Choctaw soldiers of the US American Expeditionary Forces were not considered citizens of the country, they served, using the Choctaw language as a powerful tool against the German Forces in World War I.
Rushmore Four performances at the Oklahoma History Center November 16, 2 p.m. Oklahoma History Center, 800 Nazih Zuhdi Drive Oklahoma City, OK 73105. On Wednesday, November 16, the Rushmore Four, a program featuring the presidents who appear on Mount Rushmore, will be returning to the Oklahoma History Center! Performances are scheduled for 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. There is no charge for the 2 p.m. performance, however, patrons are required to pre-register. Admission for the evening performance is $10 for Historical Society members and $20 for nonmembers.
“Hunter Trapper” living history program Fort Gibson Historic Site, 907 North Garrison Avenue Fort Gibson, OK 74434. On Friday, November 18, and Saturday, November 19, 2022, from 10 a.m. to noon and again from 1 to 3 p.m., the Fort Gibson Historic Site will hold a living history program about the practices of hunters and trappers of the area. Visitors will learn about the trade through a hands-on examination of the different animal furs and by seeing the different equipment, tools, and paraphernalia involved in making a successful hunting season.
“Holiday Special” Kilgen Organ Performance feat. Lance Luce Oklahoma History Center, 800 Nazih Zuhdi Drive Oklahoma City, OK 73105. On Monday, November 28, from 7 to 8:30 p.m., the Oklahoma History Center will present the 2022 winter performance of the Kilgen Organ series featuring organist Lance Luce. The theme for the concert will be “Holiday Special.” A short film and an audience sing-along are planned as a part of the performance. Lance Luce is an internationally acclaimed theatre organist.