Rick Harnish is in tune with what’s happening across the United States when it comes to high-speed rail development, and right now, that list is short. But as executive director of the High Speed Rail Alliance (HSRA), he has hope. He carries around in his head a map of cities he would love to see connected.  “If I were in...
Imagine a costume designer hunched over a sewing machine, stitching a gown destined to shimmer under stage lights, or sculpting a foam headpiece for a fantastical character.  In Oklahoma, this isn’t a mere pastime; it’s a vibrant career path shaped by institutions like the University of Central Oklahoma (UCO), the University of Oklahoma (OU) and Oklahoma City University (OKCU). Through...
Oklahoma has historically been one of the more earthquake-prone areas east of the Rocky Mountains. Our strongest earthquake, a magnitude 5.8, occurred in September 2016 near Pawnee – and a 5.1 magnitude hit Prague in February 2024. The U.S. Geological Survey currently reports earthquake magnitudes using the Moment Magnitude scale. A magnitude 5.3 is a moderate earthquake, with a 6.3...
Many people have heard of the National Register of Historic Places, but may not fully understand what, exactly, it is. Most also do not realize that anyone can make suggestions and help get sites added to this prestigious list. “We love working with the public and always welcome any input, suggestions or general questions about historically significant resources in our...
Almost 250 years ago, the Founding Fathers ratified the Declaration of Independence, marking the birth of the United States. Communities across Oklahoma will celebrate this historic event yet again with dazzling fireworks, good food and live entertainment.   Folds of Honor FreedomFest  Known as Tulsa's largest fireworks show, FreedomFest is the culmination of months of careful planning.  On the day of the...
Over the years, I’ve been asked many times if I’m any relation to Sheb Wooley, the Erick native who left an enduring mark in music, movies and television. It seems logical that I would be, since our last names are spelled exactly the same (there are a lot of variations) and we’re both from Oklahoma. However, I was born...
Exploring the outdoors, peering at plants and watching wildlife not only offer a mood boost, but also can bolster conservation efforts in Oklahoma. From logging nature sightings to sharing data about birds on an app, there are different avenues residents can use to share their observations which, in turn, can help inform biologists and naturalists about a species or...
Mahjong, a captivating tile-based game, has a rich and fascinating history that spans centuries. Its origins can be traced back to ancient China, where it was first played as a simple game of chance.  “The game is deeply rooted in tradition, yet continues to set the scene for cherished, uninterrupted social interactions at game tables across the globe,” says Sydney...
The summer heat is hitting its stride in Oklahoma, and with that comes an influx of insect activity. One of the state’s most prominent bugs? Bees. While these winged creatures can be a nuisance at times, they deserve to be treated with respect.  So, if you walk into your backyard and see a giant colony has made a new home...
In a state where football, basketball and softball dominate the sports scene, a water sport is making a big splash – and for evidence, one need look no farther than the north bank of the Oklahoma River. Over the past two decades, the river – officially the North Canadian except for the seven-mile segment that runs past downtown – has...