A definite highlight of this session for the class members was the wonderful hospitality of the Cherokee Nation, thanks to Chief Chad Smith and Ginger Brown and her wonderful committee. They enjoyed exceptional meals provided by the Cherokee Casino, the culinary class at the Talking Leaves Job Corps, and a community gathering at the Cherokee community of Tailholt. They left with their cars full of mementos that were provided not just by the Cherokee Nation, but by numerous other Oklahoma tribes.

There is no question that much of what they heard and saw during their visit to Tahlequah was an “eye opener” to many in the class – especially those who did not grow up in Oklahoma. The experience was an opportunity for the class to see more of the diversity in Oklahoma --- ethnic, economic and geographic.

The closing morning was devoted to Oklahoma’s environment and the challenges we might be facing. One of the class members, Will Focht, provided an excellent presentation on the connection between the quality of life of Oklahomans and our environment. (Note: If you need a good speaker on the environment and its connection to our quality of life – Will’s your man!)