Reporter

Going Global. Anita Gordy-Watkins, Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology's vice president of University and External Relations, was recently named chair of the Oklahoma Governor's International Team (OKGIT). Gov. Mary Fallin presided over a gavel ceremony held in the Blue Room of the State Capitol to signify the changing leadership of the Governor's Economic Development and Marketing Team and the Governor's International Team.

The team has 45 members representing business and industry, economic development, education, government, cultural and tribal entities. Its primary international partners are the Oklahoma Department of Commerce, the U.S. Department of Commerce, Oklahoma Secretary of State and the Oklahoma Regents for Higher Education.

Gordy-Watkins explained that the diverse background of the committee members and partners provides access to critical resources for increasing the state's competitiveness in a global economy.

Gov. Fallin and Gordy-Watkins

The group provides connections and resources for Oklahoma entrepreneurs, provides expertise from experienced global traders, encourages international studies and global trade through local markets and connects people with international suppliers or specific consulates. The OKGIT hosts numerous activities, including International Student Day at the Capitol, Passport Day, Consular Summits, Oklahoma International Congress and hosting international business delegations.

Cowboys' Playground. The Will Rogers Stampede will celebrate its 65th year with a three-day performance set for May 27-29 at 7:30pm at the Will Rogers Roundup Club Arena.

The rodeo was established all those years ago to carry on an outstanding tradition of the Western lifestyle that is part of the region. From his days of twirling ropes and spinning tales, Will Rogers was an American icon. The rodeo -- just like the Will Rogers Memorial Museum, the Will Rogers Birthplace Ranch and the J.M. Davis Gun Museum -- is woven in the fabric of Rogers County.

The Will Rogers Stampede not only features great entertainment, but also some of the best contestants in ProRodeo. Memorial Day weekend is a great time for many contestants to be on the rodeo trail and most are making their way through Oklahoma, Kansas and Arkansas to take a shot at the money available.

The world-class competition is a benefit for all of northeast Oklahoma -- folks from all over the region make their way to Claremore every May to see the show.

Patriotic Party. Tulsa County will honor its military community on Saturday, May 21 at Haikey Creek Park, 11327 S. Garnett Ave., from 10am-6pm.

Since 1950, the third Thursday in May has been reserved for Armed Forces Day. This day allows people to show their support for servicemen and women and their families of all the branches of the military.

The event includes live music, arts and crafts vendors, a kids' zone and more. Presentations and recognitions are planned throughout the day. All active-duty military, National Guard, Reserves and veterans and their families are invited to attend. A rain date is scheduled for Saturday, June 4.

For event information, call the Tulsa County Parks Department at 918-596-5977.

Indian Nation. The Cherokee Heritage Center will celebrate the 12th Annual Cherokee Heritage Gospel Sing and Hog Fry on Saturday, May 21 from 1-6pm. Admission is free with donations accepted. The Cherokee Heritage Center is located at 21192 S. Keeler Dr., Park Hill.

The organization honors the memory of Eli Nofire, event originator and former employee, with the annual event. Families, churches and gospel groups are encouraged to take the stage to sing Cherokee hymns and old-fashioned gospel songs throughout the afternoon.

Following the gospel singing, a complimentary hog fry will be presented for attendees and participants. Call 888-999-6007 for more information.