Miscellaneous

Representing 24 states and Canadian provinces, the Western Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies annual conference was hosted by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. Attendees visited the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, First Americans Museum and the Oklahoma City National Museum.

The conference concluded with the group’s 100th Anniversary Dinner at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage and featured Spirit of Western Wildlife Art Exhibition of up-and-coming artists that captured the essence of the “spirit of western wildlife.”

Congrats to Department Director J.D. Strong, his team and to the Wildlife Commission for a great job showcasing Oklahoma.

– Brenda Jones Barwick, APR, Jones PR

Rose State College has seen an increase in enrollment, up 4 percent from the previous semester. Rose State’s concurrent, or dual-enrolled student population, has increased by 22 percent. In addition, the college’s first-time student enrollment has increased 13 percent.

“Our enrollment numbers for fall are remarkable, especially considering the ongoing challenges due to COVID-19,” Rose State President Dr. Jeanie Webb said. “Our faculty and staff have worked diligently to lay the groundwork to ensure policies and procedures are in place to protect the health and safety of everyone on our campus.”

To learn more about Rose State, visit rose.edu.

Hobbies are good for us – it’s backed up by science. Studies have found that people with hobbies are typically healthier and more productive. Learning new things can also help improve memory and stave off dementia.

Health benefits aside, hobbies allow us to reconnect and explore a side of ourselves we aren’t able to at work or with families. They can also connect us with others – even while social distancing. 

There are many hobbies you can do while social distancing – reading, knitting, painting, gardening, cooking/baking – that have large and established online communities that make learning and connecting easy during this time.

– Kelsey Swithers, Bascom Communications & Consulting