09/13/2026
Oklahoma Daughters, led by State Regent Peggy Evans, warmly welcomed me to their State Workshop in Oklahoma City. I was greeted at the airport by my dear friend Pat McFall, past Registrar General which was a very special treat!
The kickoff event was a box supper, followed by the planting and dedication of a Redbud tree at the historic 1889 Territorial Schoolhouse honoring the fifteen women of the Ladies School Aid Society who, in 1889, established Oklahoma’s first tuition-free school. I rang the school bell, and learned about children’s days in a one-room schoolhouse.
On Thursday morning conference guests visited the world-class Love’s Planetarium at the Oklahoma Science Museum. A stop in the children’s section provided a photo opportunity in the Barbie photo booth. We then proceeded to the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum for The Cowboy: An Immersive Journey, a 360-degree projection-mapped experience celebrating the history and legacy of the American cowboy. After our tours, we enjoyed a delicious lunch at a local restaurant.
The gala banquet that evening featured The Kiowa Women Warrior Color Guard serving as flag bearers in the opening ritual. I was honored to be presented with an original Native American doll creates by Susan Howard, a DAR member and member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, who was recognized with a Women in the Arts Certificate and pin for her significant contributions to Native American art.
Friday morning everyone enjoyed the presentation by Paula Owen, National Chair of Master Reports followed by a delicious luncheon.
My visit to Oklahoma was filled with meaningful moments and wonderful conversations with the many dedicated Daughters. Special thanks to the State Regent, my drivers Gail Hamill and past VPG Sue Allen and my fabulous personal page Darla Kautz who all made the weekend so memorable.
