Somewhere in Oklahoma

Today is Thursday. This means that the week is almost over. Which is just nuts to think because it seems like only yesterday we were meeting a greeting each other at the Oklahoma Heritage Association. So this is where we begin our journey for today.

7:30am rolled in nice and early as we boarded the bus. I didn't want to move. I'm pretty sure none of the other students wanted to either. Nonetheless, as we drove to Enid sleep overtook nearly everyone as a quieted hush fell upon the bus. And then we were suddenly there! Our first stop in Enid was Leonardo's Children's Museum. This place was absolutely incredible. These 16 & 17 year olds suddenly turned into 5 year olds as they explored all of the things the museum offered. They were like kids in candy stores. Laughter and enjoyment filled the air as we became introduced to the bustling city of Enid. From there we made our way to Integris Bass Hospital. This hospital is one of the biggest and busiest in the northwest portion of the state. They have a wonderful campus that we were able to tour. We watched and participated in a simulated surgery, allowing students to see what it is like to be on the front lines of the medical field. We were also introduced to a doctor from Columbia, MO. He was still in Missouri when we met him as he videoed himself into our room through a robot that is leading the change in the medical field. It was one of the coolest things I've ever seen in my state.

We then stopped for lunch with some of the LOK grads, then loaded back on the bus and headed on to OKC! The bus rides are always adventurous. If you stay up and talk with your classmates, you make memories like no other. However, you risk the chance of falling asleep during the next stop because you are simply exhausted form the week. BUT if you fall asleep you will definitely have pictures taken of you, most of which will probably be posted on the Instagram. It's almost a lose-lose.. I voted for the nap..

When we arrived in OKC our first stop was the Farm Bureau. We learned about their operations and the wonderful things they do for our state. Oklahoma, being an agriculture based state, relies on our farmers. The Farm Bureau supports them in everything from lobbying to insurance. It was a great presentation! Next Mr. Renzi Stone came to speak about Oklahoma and his story. Renzi, for those of you who do not know, is the husband of our wonderful and fearless leader, Lee Anne Stone. He told of his life in Oklahoma, the company he owns (Saxum), and of their son Isaiah. I highly recommend you check out the foundation they have created in his honor. Our next stop in OKC was the magnificent Devon Tower to learn about the energy sector of our state, and, specifically, the oil and natural gas industry.

After all of our visits were completed, we dined the night away at Cattleman's. A classic restaurant in OKC where even presidents have eaten. Our feast began and ended in celebration for all we had accomplished this week. The only thing we had left for the day was the 80s dance. The costumes were amazing. The songs were incredible. The moves were hilarious. All in all it was the best possible way to conclude our week. We have one day left, 2 stops, then it's finished. I can't believe it. YLOK is one of my favorite events every year and it is almost completed once again. Wow. Well.. tomorrow I guess I get to discuss my final thoughts on this year, but until then..

Andy Stewart,
Student, Optimist, and aspiring Catalyst