10th Annual Arctic Blast on Lake Texoma

The Arctic Blast and Polar Bear Plunge is the premier winter event on

Arctic Blast Celebration 

Lake Texoma.  Held at Cedar Mills Marina, the event raises money for the Western Grayson County Special Olympics and three local volunteer fire departments.  The 10th Annual Arctic Blast is scheduled for February 21, 2015. 

The Polar Bear 5k fun run will kick off the festivities with registration at 8 am.  The 5K will begin at 9 with the course running through the streets of Cedar Mills Marina.

Registration for the Utter-ly Cool Car Show begins at 10 am and the show will run from 11 am to 1:30 pm. 

The Eskimo Park will be open from 11 am to 2:30 pm with fun and wacky games for the whole family in a carnival like atmosphere!  Enjoy firemen smokehouse, fireman competitions and other exciting activities.  Get ready for some crazy cool TEAM games too!

The frigid waters await those who take the Polar Bear Plunge at 2 pm.  Collect sponsorships and go “Jump in the Lake”.

The evening Arctic Blast Celebration is the highlight of the event.  Indulge yourself on a great Italian Buffet dinner and enjoy the glittering winter wonderland under the big top!  Dance the evening away to sounds of the Class Act band.   A collection of wonderful treasures have been donated for the silent and live auction.  New this year is a chance in the drawing to enter the $1,000 Money Machine included in the ticket price.  Complimentary adult beverages will be served.  Doors open at 5:30 pm.

Tickets for the Celebration are now available - $50 pre-purchased or $60 at the door.  Reserve a table for 8 by contacting 903-523-4222 ext 226 or purchase individual tickets from Whitesboro Middle School (Kristi Kamp), S & S High School (Corgi Fisher), S & S Administration (Tanya Stucky), Sadler, Gordonville, Sherwood Shores Volunteer Fire Departments or at Cedar Mills Marina & Resort.

Pottsboro Senior Center to host presentation on "The Portal to Texas History"

The Pottsboro Senior Center will host guest speaker Natalie Bauman, columnist for the Pottsboro Sun newspaper, at 11 a.m. on Thurs., Oct. 30.  Ms. Bauman will be speaking about gathering our local history for preservation on “The Portal to Texas History”, a gateway to Texas history materials. The website contains lots of information - anything from an ancestor's picture in a college yearbook to a rare historical map -- http://texashistory.unt.edu/

The Pottsboro Library received a recent grant enabling the Pottsboro library the resources to scan and upload old photos, newspapers, and stories from local residents who may want to add the information to the website.

The public is invited to attend, bring their information to the library for scanning, and eat lunch.  Advance reservations for lunch are required by 5 p.m. on Wed., Oct. 29 by calling 903-327-3728.  Lunch is no charge for those 60 years or older, or guests may pay $5.50 for lunch or bring their own brown bag.  The menu will be country fried steak with gravy, mashed potatoes, green beans, wheat bread and apple cobbler.

The Pottsboro Senior Center is sponsored by the Rotary Club of Lake Texoma, the City of Pottsboro, and Meals on Wheels of Texoma.  For more information, contact Ann Murray at  903-327-3728.  the Pottsboro Senior Center is located in the Pottsboro Area Library,  104 N. Main St., Pottsboro, TX.

Visit TexomaConnect.com to find more interesting things to do in the Lake Texoma area.

Muenster Oktoberfest brings Germany to Texas, Oct. 18-19

Muenster, Texas | October 16, 2014

Prost (cheers)! Oktoberfest is coming to Muenster, Texas on

October 18th & 19th, at the new  60,000 sq. ft. Heritage Park Pavilion located at 301 North Ash Street in Muenster, Texas.

Muenster Oktoberfest will bring out the German in everyone as visitors celebrate this traditional Oktoberfest with live polka, country, rock and nostalgic bands on stage all weekend  long with Alpine Village, The Royal Kolobasneck’s, Brave Combo, The Mullet Boyz and more. Over fifty arts and craft vendors will be set up inside for browsing and shopping.

There will be plenty of fun for the kids in the children’s area with games, rides and activities. You can expect to find the very best German food at this Oktoberfest with Muenster restaurants, meat markets and bakery’s serving up mouthwatering delights - and of course great German beer.

There will be a VW Classic Car Show taking place and many other fun contests and prize giveaways. There will also be Wiener Dog Races on Sunday at 2:00 p.m. Traditional German dancers will be on hand to perform exhibition dances and entertainment.

Admission: $5.00. Children 12 and under are free. Doors open at 10:00am with the official tapping of the Oktoberfest Keg on Saturday October 18th at noon. German attire is welcome but no matter how you dress be ready to have a great time. For more information go to www.MuensterOktoberfest.com or contact the Muenster Chamber of Commerce at 940-759-2227.

It will be a busy week in the Texoma area with lots of fun things to do!   Find more Texoma area events  on Texomaconnect.com.

Entries being accepted for Hagerman NWR Nature photography contest

Lake Texoma | Aug 13, 2014

Entries are being accepted now through September 6, 2014 for the 5th

Annual Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge Nature photography contest.  Entries must have been photographed at the Refuge in 2012, 2013 or 2014.

The Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge offers plenty of opportunities for bird watching, observing the great outdoors and nature photography.  Bring your binoculars and ride the Tam or meander along the walking trails, cross native prairie lands and meander under the forest.  Native wildlife is abundant and the photography opportunities are endless.

Photographers who enter as many categories as they can will improve their chances of winning, as some categories attract many more entries than others.

This year $100 and a ribbon will be awarded for the Best in Show photo, and $50 and ribbons will be awarded for First Place in each contest category available. Ribbons will be given for Second and Third places in each category -- Artistic, Flora and Macro, Landscape, Wildlife, and Youth.

Skip Hills, owner of Hill’s Photography of Texas, Trey Neal, Texas professional photographer, and Rick Cantu, Assistant Manager at Hagerman have been selected as Judges for this year's competition .  The panel of judges will not know the identity of anyone submitting photos until after the judging is complete.

Entries may be mailed to the refuge or handed in at the Visitor Center.  Contest rules, entry details and entry form are posted at http://www.friendsofhagerman.com/PhotoClub.

9th Annual Red River Bike Rally to be held at Lake Texoma

Lake Texoma
August 3, 2014
By B.J. Kirkpatrick

Scenic Lake Texoma, rolling hills, open roads, a rural backdrop, and


Red River Bike Rally

Southern hospitality ... you'll find it all at the 9th Annual Red River Bike Rally! This will be our third year at Lake Texoma, and the reviews for last year's ride were excellent! It is fun, challenging, and has beautiful scenery.

Affectionately dubbed by riders as "Hotter than Hotter 'N Hell," it's the ideal preparation for one of the largest rides in the nation. Take your pick of six routes: 8-mile family route, 25 miles, 44 miles, 66 miles, 80 miles and 100 miles. Each one offers a unique and challenging experience along with plenty of ride support and fully stocked rest stops.

There will be several routes of varying distance planned west of Sherman and Denison, mostly on country roads with little traffic through the beautiful North Texas countryside.  Port-O-Potties and fully stocked rest stops will be available every 10 to 12 miles.  We will have mechanics and SAG support available on all routes.  Safety will always be our top priority.

This year, a mixed pavement route will be added.  The Pave Mixer route will be 70-80 miles and include both pavement and gravel throughout the Route.  Riders will utilize gravel roads whenever possible and share the same rest stops as the Pavement Routes.

All Routes are posted on the rally website and you can use RideWithGPS.com to prepare for our ride.  Start times for all routes is 7 am.

The Red River Bike Rally will be held August 9, 2014 and is sponsored by the Sherman Kiwanis Club.  In 2013 this event had nearly 450 participants and raised approximately $8,000 for Local Children’s Charities.  For more information contact Joe Brown, 903-815-6221 or visit KiwanisRedRiver Rally.com

Tanglewood Resort Hotel and Conference Center, the premier destination on Lake Texoma, is the start and finish line; within minutes you'll find yourself in rural North Texas, focusing on the country roads, rolling hills and gorgeous Lake Texoma!

Tanglewood Hotel and Resort is offering excellent packages for riders and their families. Please be sure to visit their website at www.tanglewoodresort.com, or email mcoleman@tangelwoodresort.com. or http://www.tanglewoodresort.com/packages-and-specials/

Additional lodging is available in the Lake Texoma area close to the Tanglewood Resort, the start and finish line.  Find local motels, vacation rentals, cabins and campgrounds on TexomaConnect.com.

Georgetown Baptist Church Presents Weird Animals Vacation Bible School - Where Jesus' Love is One-of-a-Kind

God filled the world with a lot of crazy creatures...including you! 

When kids feel weird, different, or even lost in a crowd  -- nothing compares to the extraordinary love of Jesus.  At Weird Animals VBS, kids experience God's Word in surprising  and unforgettable ways!  Each day, leaders reinforce one simple bible truth -- which makes it easy for kids to remember  and apply to real life.

The program begins with singing a fun mix of classic worship songs and brand-new praise songs.  The fun continues as kids  experience the Bible in wild and wacky ways followed by thought-provoking discussions.  Imaginations soar as kids experiment with Sciency--Fun that reinforces the Bible point for that day.  Kids run, jump, and even splash through games  that connect with the daily Bible verse and of course snacks that connect with that day's Bible verse. 

In today's culture, kids are sensitive to being different.  This wonderful VBS program helps kids understand that Jesus  loves them, and his love is amazing!  No matter where we come from God's love is the same.  No one else can love us more.   We are all a little different in many different ways.  Jesus's love is one-of-a-kind!

Georgetown Baptist Church will be presenting Weird Animals VBS on July 14th - 18th from 6 - 9 pm.  Georgetown Baptist  Church is located at 207 Georgetown Road. Pottsboro, Texas 75076.  Pastor Bobby Hancock and his staff will be glad to provide more information at 903-786-2233. 

For more churches in the Lake Texoma Area offering the Weird Animals and other VBS programs this summer visit  Texomaconnect.com. 

Special Guest Tanner Young at the Chrystal Opry House House

Tanner Young

Tanner Young & Friends will be on stage at the Chrystal Opry House  on May 24th at 7 pm.

Tanner is a 16 year old singer and musician from Colbert, OK. who performs old country, bluegrass and gospel music.

He has been playing since he was ten when his grandparents took him to a bluegrass festival. Mesmerized by the banjo, he has taught himself to play several instruments including mandolin, guitar, dobro, fiddle, and bass.

He has  performed at festivals and shows in the area and has won several awards and contests. Recently he was first Runner Up in the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame Contest.  Other awards include 1st place in the Junior Division at the Oklahoma Sandbass Festival in 2009, 1st Place in the Oklahoma Junior Flat Picking contest and 3rd Place in the Oklahoma Junior Mandolin Contest. 

Tanner's first love was bluegrass but influenced by old country music artist Marty Robbins, Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard, Buck Owens and others, he has branched out into country .  He has just finished recording his fourth CD, which is gospel.

Admission is $7 per adult with children under 12 admitted free. The concession area will be open at 6 pm with brisket sandwiches, hot dogs, popcorn, candy, ice cream coffee, water, and soda pop.

The Chrystal Opry House is located at 1977 White Mound Road, Sherman, Texas which is located on Melody Ranch,  1.5 miles west of Tom Bean or 6 miles east of Howe on FM 902 and a half mile south on White Mound Road.  No alcohol is permitted and there is no smoking inside the building. Seating is provided.

For more Memorial Day events in the Lake Texoma area, visit TexomaConnect, tourism guide to the Lake Texoma area featuring fun and interesting things to do, places to stay, good eats and special events in the Lake Texoma area.

Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge Summer Events

Open Air Tram at Hagerman NWR

During the months of June, July and August, free guided wildlife tours along Wildlife Drive on open air, all-electric tram, will be offered several times weekly, weather permitting.  There is no charge, but  donations will be gratefully accepted.   Bring your camera, binoculars or borrow our loaner binos.  Check friendsofhagerman.com/Activities for monthly tour schedules. You can reserve your spot by phone, 903 786 2826. 

Youth FIRST at Hagerman NWR will be held on June 7th from 10 - 11:30 am.  Youth FIRST is the monthly program for children at Hagerman NWR, with activities for ages 4 - 7 and ages 8 - 12.  The topic for June will be Good Bugs/Bad Bugs.  You can register youth online, friendsofhagerman.com/Youth or by phoning the Refuge, 903 786 2826. Lots of hands-on nature learning and fun! Parent or other responsible adult must accompany children age 6 and younger.

Second Saturday will be held June 14th at the Visitor Center.  A guided Bird Walk with Dr. Wayne Meyer will be held from 8 - 9:30.  Meet at the Visitor Center.  Dr. George Diggs, co-author of Shinners & Mahlers Illustrated Flora of North Central Texas, will speak on Ferns of Texas at 10 -11:30

On June 21, the Refuge will hold a Volunteer Orientation and Training Day, for those 18 and older who are interested in learning more about volunteering in the Visitor Center at the Refuge. Overview, lunch and Refuge tour.  Please RSVP to 903 786 2826 or email friendsofhagerman@gmail.com.  The Orientation will be from 10 am - 2pm at the Refuge.

Second Saturday at Hagerman on July 12th will feature Endangered Species specialist with the US Fish & Wildlife Service, Omar Bocanegra, who will speak on Dragonflies of Texas.  The program will be held from 10 – 11:30 am, in the Visitor Center at the Refuge,  The free Nature Programs are open to the public.

The Nature Photography Club will meet for a program and photo sharing on July 12 at 12:30 pm.  The Photography Club meets bi-monthly, in the Audio Visual Classroom of the Friends Of Hagerman Center, at the Refuge, the Club is open to any photographer interested in nature photography.  Visitors are welcome free of charge; nominal dues for membership.

The program for the Youth FIRST on August will be announced soon.  Check the Kids Korner or Event page on TexomaConnect for updated information on speaker and topic.

Second Saturday on August 9 will feature Dr. Bryon Clark, amateur bat enthusiast who will present the ABC’s of Bats from 10 – 11:30 am, in the Visitor Center at the Refuge.

Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge is located at 6465 Refuge Road, Sherman, TX 75092.

TPWD Seeking Information from Hand-fishing Anglers

ATHENS—Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is seeking additional

information to learn more about the practice of hand fishing for catfish in the state. Also known as noodling or grabbling, hand fishing was legalized in Texas in 2011.

“Because it is so new to our state, we are hoping to identify who hand-fishing anglers are and what their needs may be,” said Kris Bodine, a TPWD fisheries research biologist. “TPWD will be conducting a survey over the next 60 days to better understand the needs, opinions and characteristics of hand-fishing anglers in Texas.”

The survey should take five to 10 minutes to complete online at https://survey.tpwd.state.tx.us/TakeSurvey.aspx?SurveyID=8803304. Anglers may complete the survey any time between now and June 30.

 The survey is voluntary, and no one has to answer any question they do not wish to answer. Responses to the survey will remain confidential.

Purpose of the survey is to improve catfish populations across the state as well as to ensure that the needs and opinions of hand-fishing anglers are included in future management plans.

While Noodling is somewhat new in Texas, it is a time honored tradition in Oklahoma and Lousiana where the art of fishing by hand has been handed down from generation to generation.

The 2nd Red River Noodling Shootout will be held in conjunction with the Magnolia Festival in Durant Oklahoma.  3 man teams will compete for over $10,000 in cash and prizes.  Conestants can start fishing 48 hours prior to the 6 pm weigh-in on May 31st at the Choctaw Event Center.  Oklahoma fishing regulations apply,  you must have a fishing license for whatever state you are fishing in, and entry deadline is May 29th. 

The 18th Magnolia Festival will run May 28 - Jun 1 at the Choctow Event Center.  Activities include an Art Show, the Choctaw Nation Princess Pageant, and local entertainment featured throughout the day with scheduled nightly entertainment. Events held on Saturday include the children’s parade, free children’s activities, Native American Dancers, and the 2014 Red River Noodling Shoot Out and the Fetch-N-Fish Dog Show. All events will cap off Saturday evening with live entertainment.

Find more fun events in the Lake Texoma area for the Memorial Day Weekend visit TexomaConnect.com.  An online tourism guide to the areas of Southern Okalhoma and North Texas surrounding Lake Texoma, TexomaConnect.com features places of interest, vacation rentals, boat rentals, things to do, a restaurant guide, special events calendar and lake property for sale in Texas. 

LakeFest Regatta on Lake Texoma

The 2014 LakeFest Regatta will be held May 2 - 4  on Lake Texoma, hosted by Grandpappy Point Marina and the Texoma Sailing Club.

Begun a quarter century ago as the Easter Regatta, Lakefest was the first inland charity regatta in the United States. Today, it continues to be one of the nation’s premiere sailing events.

This year, LakeFest will feature two separate racecourses: one for the PHRF Spinnaker, PHRF Cruising and PHRF Leisure fleets, and one for the Flotilla. With a large number of PHRF boats expected, the handicap fleet will be divided into numerous divisions giving everyone from high octane racing sloops to "bimini & BBQ" cruisers ample and fair competition. Keelboats and multihulls of all sizes, types and speeds are encouraged to participate.

Since its inception, LakeFest has raised more than $2 million in support of various children’s charities in North Texas. The Texoma LakeFest Foundation is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt not-for-profit corporation.  In 2009, the Texoma LakeFest Foundation selected a new beneficiary – the Make-A-Wish Foundation® of North Texas. The sole purpose of the Make-A-Wish Foundation is to grant the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions, in order to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy. Their goal is to provide children with the hope for better times, strength through the tough times and the joy to experience the present. The Make-A-Wish Foundation has granted more than 3,000 wishes since its inception in 1982.
 
The first after-race party, Sailor's Reception & Dinner Party, will be held Friday night at the Grandpappy Pavilion. Live entertainment will be provided by a DJ and a barbecue menu will be served. Doors open at 6:00PM & tickets are available for $20.00. 

"Wishing Away in Texomaville" - Saturday night festivities will be held at the Grandpappy Pavilion. We will have live entertainment by a steel drum band followed by Jimmy Buffet Tribute Band - Fin City! A menu of "Cheeseburgers in Paradise" will be served by Angela's Cafe. Also, a silent auction will be held throughout the event.

The Pavilion is located at Grandpappy Point Resort & Marina, 132 Grandpappy Dr., Denison, TX 75020.  Enjoy both exciting events for only $40 with the weekend passes.  Children's tickets are $10 each night.  Tickets can be purchased at the Marina office, 888.855.1972 or online at events@grandpappy.com

For more events in the Lake Texoma area this weekend, visit TexomaConnect.  There are several activities planned on Lake Texoma and special events are being held in the surrounding communities, so get out and enjoy the wonderful springtime weather and have a little fun in the "Playground of the Southwest".

ROBERT A. SPANGLER TO SPEAK AT LUNCH LECTURE APRIL 25

The Sherman Museum announced today that Robert A. Spangler, whose photographs are published in the book, In the Shadow of Danger: Photographs of the Vietnam War, 1970-71, will present a lunch lecture on April 25, at noon in the community room. The photographer will be signing copies of his book, which are available to purchase in the museum store. Admission is free and the public is invited.

Mr. Spangler spent a year in Vietnam as a combat correspondent with the 10th Public Information Detachment documenting the lives of soldiers for civilian and military publications. Some highlights of the photographs include: men serving in the field and in the air, medics saving lives and soldiers helping civilians rebuild. “He has captured some compelling images of soldiers in the call of duty and we are delighted to have him share his story with us,” said Executive Director Dan Steelman. His photographs join the images and words of over 500 men and women interviewed in an Oral History Project at the R.W. Norton Art Foundation, and were subsequently published in a book and traveling art exhibit. The exhibit is featured at the museum as part of the current exhibition, entitled, “The Vietnam Experience”. The display will run through June 14.

The Sherman Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Admission is: $5.00 for adults; $3.00 for seniors (Ages 60+); $2.00 for students (ages 6-18) and for those with a college ID; FREE for children 5 and under and FREE for museum members.

About The Sherman Museum
The Sherman Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) educational organization devoted to collecting, preserving and interpreting objects of historical significance to Grayson County. The The Sherman Museum is located at  301 South Walnut, Sherman, Texas 75090

The Lake Texoma area has a rich history as a integral part of the  development of Texas and Oklahoma.  Explore the adventures of the early settlers of the region at local Museums and Cultural Centers or visit local historical sites.  You can find a complete list and more information about Lake Texoma on www.texomaconnect.com.

Compass Rose launches new season April 5th

The Compass Rose

The Compass Rose, will begin sailing again April 5, 2014, with At The Dock Tours, a fun and and educational tour of the famous Compass Rose and learn about the history of the ship and of sailing in the 1800's. At Dock Tours take place on the 1st and 3rd Saturdays from 10:00am - 2:00pm.  Tours are $10.00 per person, children 12 and under $5.00 per child, children under 6 free

This all wooden brigantine  has plied the oceans, sailed alongside other tall ships been in movies, documentaries, books and song. Visit and you become part of her lore!  The Compass Rose was built in 1968 as a Replica 1860's Wooden Brigantine Privateer.  She is double hulled mahogany over white oak ribs with an impressive 60' length overall and 46' at the water line.  She has a mere 6.5' draft, in order to maneuver in shallow waters and tight spots.  This enabled ships of her kind to be faster and head into places their foes could not - great for blockade running!​

 In addition to Dock Tours, the Compass Rose is available for Private Sails, Moonlight Sails and Historic Day Sails.  Step back to a simpler, quieter time when tall ships harnessed the wind. Take an elegant excursion and enjoy adventure sailing 1800's style!

Private Sails -
Be the envy of your friends and everyone on Lake Texoma as you charter the famous Compass Rose for an exclusive sail of your choosing!

Moonlight Sails
 
Looking for Romance? Peace? Adventure? Think you can't have it all in the same night? Think again! Sunset to moonlight, gourmet desserts and champagne, flying off the yardarms (if adventure is in your blood), watching the stars; it all happens aboard the Compass Rose. 3000 sq ft  of sails, a crew to meet your needs ... ahhh ... this is the life!  Moonlight Sails begin at 7 pm and return to the dock by 10:30 pm.

Historic Day Sails

Come enjoy a historic day sail and learn about brigantine ships, pirate lore , the history of the Compass Rose and Lake Texoma. Compass Rose is always the star of Lake Texoma when she hoists her sails! She is one of the few working Brigantines left in the world. Great fun for the whole family!  Call for booking information.  Historic Day Sails begin at 2 pm and return to the dock by 4 pm.

Compass Rose is docked at Grandpappy Marina on Lake Texoma.  For more information visit their website at http://www.sailcompassrose.com/

More more Lake Texoma adventures and fun things to do, visit TexomaConnect.com.

Ship Wreck on The Red

The Pottsboro Senior Center will host R.C. Harmon, noted local archeologist, 

Pottsboro Library

on Tuesday, March 25 at 11 a.m. for a special presentation of “Ship Wreck on the Red”.

The Heroine, a 140 foot long western river steamboat built in 1832 was wrecked in 1838 between Jonesborough, Texas and Fort Towson, Indian Territory. It is the oldest archaeologically recorded vessel of its type and Oklahoma’s only documented shipwreck.

All are welcome.   Advance reservations for lunch are required by 9 a.m.  Meals on Wheels of Texoma provides lunch at no charge to anyone 60 years old or over.  Please call 903-327-3728 for reservations by 9 a.m. on Tuesday or you may bring a brown bag lunch.    The Pottsboro Senior Center is located at the rear entrance of the Pottsboro Library, 104 N. Main, Pottsboro and is open on Tues., Wed. and Thurs. from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

 The City of Pottsboro, Texoma Council of Government’s Area Agency on Aging, and Lake Texoma Rotary, along with the Pottsboro Area Library support the Senior Center.  More information can be found on the following websites:

www.pottsboro.govoffice2.com; www.pottsborochamber.com; and www.mowot.org

For more information about Pottsboro, Lake Texoma and Texoma area events, visit TexomaConnect.com  

Wildlife Department Youth Camp application available now

Oklahoma Wildlife Camp 2013

     Youths can log on to wildlifedepartment.com any time through April 18 and apply completely online for the 16th Annual Wildlife Youth Camp. 

     The weeklong event is slated this year for June 22-27 at Oklahoma University Biological Station at Lake Texoma. The camp is run entirely by employees of the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation and aims to teach youth about the rewards offered by a career in wildlife - be it as a game warden, fish and wildlife biologist or even a communications or education specialist.

     The free camp increases awareness of conserving and managing Oklahoma's wildlife resources through courses on wildlife-related career opportunities, rifle and shotgun training, archery, wildlife identification, wildlife law enforcement, fishing, fisheries management, ropes, swimming, turkey and waterfowl hunting, management and law enforcement.

     "We urge anybody between the ages of 14 and 16 that's interested in hunting or fishing or a career with the Department to apply," said Jay Harvey, game warden stationed in Choctaw and Bryan counties and coordinator for the Wildlife Youth Camp

     To attend Wildlife Youth Camp, applicants must be Oklahoma residents, and they must turn 14 prior to June 22, 2014, and be no older than 16. Prospective campers must fill out an application form and write a 75-word essay describing why they want to attend the camp, why they should be selected and what they expect to learn. Additionally, they must provide a letter of recommendation by someone other than a family member and a recent photograph showing the applicant participating in an outdoor-related event or activity. The application process can be completed online, including the submission of the required essay, photo and signed letter of recommendation. To apply, prospective campers should log on to wildlifedepartment.com. The page also includes additional information about the camp and photographs from previous years.

The camp will be open to a maximum of 35 youths, and applications will be accepted until 4:30 p.m. April 18, 2014.  The 16th Annual Wildlife Youth Camp is scheduled for June 22-27 at Lake Texoma and will introduce teens to careers in wildlife conservation through a range of outdoor activities. Learn more at wildlifedepartment.com.

This program receives federal assistance from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and thus prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, disability, age, and sex (gender), pursuant to Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (as amended), Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. To request an accommodation or informational material in an alternative format, please contact the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation by calling (405) 521-3855. If you believe you have been discriminated against in any program, activity, or service, please contact U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program, Attention: Civil Rights Coordinator for Public Access, 4401 N. Fairfax Drive, Arlington, VA 22203.

The Lake Texoma area offers many opportunities for the curious and the budding natural scientist.  Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma and Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge in Texas, offer plenty of opportunities for observing and photographing nature.  Hagerman NWR has monthly programs for youth and adults and the Friends of Hagerman NWR Photography Club that meets bi-monthly to share ideas.  For more information on events and programs offered visit www.texomaconnect.com. 

'Summer Science Splash Camp' for middle schoolers begins at Austin College in 2014

By Austin College

the Idea Center at Austin College

SHERMAN, TEXAS--Middle school students who love science or want to

The Summer Science Splash Camp is now accepting registrations on the Austin College website: www.austincollege.edu/sciencesplash. The camp is sponsored by the II-VI Foundation and hosted by and conducted on the Austin College campus.

Austin College sessions for summer 2014 will be offered July 13 – 18 and July 20 – 25. Because of the generous support of the II-VI Foundation, registration for the camp, including programming and room and board, is offered at the reduced cost of only $300 per student ($1,130 value). Registration includes all activities and a camp t-shirt. Each session is designed for only 60 participants (waiting lists will be maintained).

Learning teams of 12 students and one teacher will work in labs and classrooms with curriculum prepared in conjunction with Austin College faculty. Campers will be engaged in team competitions in daily experiments and in their evening activities.

All meals will be provided in the Austin College dining hall, offering healthy and tasty food choices. Campers with any dietary needs should report that to the camp director upon registration. Students will live with camp counselors in Austin College air-conditioned residence halls.

Participants should bring their own linens and all personal toiletries as well as clothing for recreation (including swimming) and appropriate lab attire, which includes closed-toe shoes, long pants, and non-baggy clothing.

Summer Splash Programs at Juniata College in Pennsylvania and Eckerd College in Florida, both sponsored by the II-VI Foundation, have received high praise from participants.

The II-VI Foundation is headquartered in Bridgeville, Pennsylvania, and operates with the mission to “encourage and enable students to pursue a career in engineering, science, and mathematics while maintaining a standard of excellence in that pursuit.” The foundation aims to fulfill its mission through early education initiatives, undergraduate scholarships, the Undergraduate Research Program, and a Block-Gift Program for graduate student support. The foundation supports research at Austin College in addition to the new summer program.

Austin College is a leading national independent liberal arts college located north of Dallas in Sherman, Texas. Founded in 1849, making it the oldest institution of higher education in Texas operating under original charter and name, the College is related by covenant to the Presbyterian Church (USA). Recognized nationally for academic excellence in the areas of international education, pre-professional training, and leadership studies, Austin College is one of 40 schools profiled in Loren Pope’s influential book Colleges That Change Lives.

learn more are invited to the newly instituted “Summer Science Splash Camp” at Austin College during summer 2014. No particular advance science knowledge is required; students should come motivated to learn and have fun in the process. The week-long residential summer camp includes research and science exploration led by certified science teachers during the day and plenty of fun activities outside the lab in the late afternoon and evening, supervised by camp counselors who are well-trained Austin College students.

For information on other youth camps in the Greater Texoma area, visit www.texomaconnect.com  Find lots of fun activities in Art, Theater, Cooking Classes, Natural Science programs and more!  the 2014 calendar will be updated by the end of March.

Lake Texoma is having a Blast!

 

An Arctic Blast that is!

Benefiting the Western Grayson County Special Olympics and 3 

Take the Polar Plunge!

West Texoma Volunteer Fire Departments, the Arctic Blast featuring the Polar Bear Plunge is the premier winter event on Lake Texoma. 

Where else can you have this much fun at the beach in February? Lots of different activities are going on all day so put on your best cool weather attire and join us!  Experience the 2014 Arctic Blast featuring the Polar Bear Plunge and you’ll be exposed to a spectacle like no other!

It all begins with the Polar5Krun at 9 am.   Start the morning off right with a brisk run thru the roads of Cedar Mills Marina.  The Utterly Cool Car Show is from 10 am to 2 pm.  Enjoy a blast from the past as you stroll along the shore line of Lake Texoma and view the good ol’ classics, trucks, hot rods & motorcycles.  Take a gander at the exciting new cars too!  Sponsored by Bob Utter Ford and organized by Dave Blaylock, awards will be given for “Best In Show” and “Top Ten” at 2 pm.

At 1:00pm take the Polar Plunge!  Participants collect sponsorships and go “Jump in the Lake” for a great cause.  Dip you toe in the water, wade to your knees or plunge on in head first – you are all plungers and will receive a 2014 “I took the Plunge” T-Shirt!  Sponsorship donations are  $50.

The highlight of the event is the Arctic Blast!  Enjoy a great evening that includes a wonderful dinner, dancing, fun and complimentary beer and wine to the melodious sounds of Class Act band.  Tickets in advance are $40, at the door $56. Table for 8 with Reserved Seating is $450.   It’s all happening at Cedar Mills Marina on Lake Texoma on February 15, 2014.  For more information and tickets call 903-523-5982 or 903-423-4222 Ext. 226.  For registration forms visit their website http://texomapolarplunge.org

Lake Texoma is a year round premier destination and there is always something fun to do.   For more events on Lake Texoma and the surrounding areas visit The Events Page of Texoma Connect. In addition to “Big Striper” fishing in the winter, there are art exhibits; cultural events, trail runs, and more so don’t miss out on any of the exciting things happening in the Lake Texoma area this winter.

 

 

 

Grass Notes at Bluegrass Day

Chrystal Opry House announced February Bluegrass Event

“Bluegrass Day” this month is February 1st. A bluegrass jam begins at 5 pm. Donations will be accepted to defray expenses. For those staying for the show, we have scheduled an open mic at 6:30 pm.  It is a good opportunity to get some stage experience.  Our regular show will then begin at 7 pm.  Let’s try a new policy, bring 10 paying guests (at regular price) to one of our first Saturday bluegrass shows, and you will be admitted free.

Grass Notes from the Collinsville area is our band for the evening. Members include Johnnie Luckie, fiddle, Larry Shoemaker, banjo, vocals, Jerry Shoemaker, bass, Walter McElheney, mandolin and vocals, Kristie McElheney, vocals and guitar, along with their daughter, Rebecca, vocals. This mostly family group does a great job and we’re happy to have them kick off our year.

Because of the ice storm the first of December, we didn't get to donate to the Meals on Wheels program. We will have a special event for just that purpose a bit later in the year.

The concession area will be open at 6 pm, with brisket sandwiches and hot dogs as well as coffee, soda, water, popcorn, and candy.

The Chrystal Opry House is located at 1977 White Mound Road, Sherman, Texas which is 1.5 miles west of Tom Bean or 6 miles east of Howe on FM 902 and a half mile south on White Mound Road. No alcohol is permitted and there is no smoking inside the building. Seating is provided. Persons interested in performing at the Chrystal Opry House should contact Bill Hayes at 903-546-6893 or http://www.chrystalopryhouse.com.
(“Like” us on face book--chrystalopryhouse and (www.melodyranchbluegrassfestival.com)



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For more information about live entertainment and events in the Lake Texoma area, visit http://www.texomaconnect.com

Nature Writing Workshop

Press Release  Friends of Hagerman

On Sunday, January 19, Dr. William B. Hughes will lead a Nature Writing

Workshop at Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge, from 2:30 – 4 pm.  Dr. Hughes, who has had articles published in several nature magazines, says the workshop will cover in detail the steps involved in writing a nature article for publication.

Hughes has had a lifelong interest in birds, inspired by his father.  Following retirement from a career as a research chemist, his desire to share his birding experiences has prompted him to pursue writing about birds on such diverse subjects as the history of bird study in America and bird fables.  Examples of his articles have appeared in Bird Watcher’s Digest and Missouri Prairie Journal.

The workshop is free of charge but advance registration is required; participants may register online at http://www.friendsofhagerman.com/Activities, or may call the Refuge, 903 786 2826.  The workshop is limited to 15 participants.

Hagerman NWR is located at 6465 Refuge Road, Sherman, Texas, 75092, on the Big Mineral Arm of Lake Texoma.  Participants will meet in  the Visitor Center at the Refuge.

Lake Texoma is a mecca for anyone who loves to study the great outdoors.  Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge attracts thousands of birding enthusiast, nature photographers and writers each year.  For more information about Lake Texoma visit www.texomaconnect.com.

2nd Annual Drum Family Celebration of Christmas Light Show

"Listen to the Lights" - A Toys For Tots, Marshall County Benefit
KINGSTON, OK,

November 28, 2013 through January 1, 2014. A Christmas Celebration featuring

Over 50,000 Lights

over 50,000 lights synchronized to the music of Christmas!

Come celebrate  Christmas with us and watch as the lights dance to music from Alabama, Lonestar, LukeBryan, Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Mannheim Steamroller, Gary Hoey and more!

We are Supporting Toys for Tots – Marshall County Campaign and their efforts to help children this Christmas. We will be collecting new, unwrapped toys every night of the show. A Donation Box is located in front of the display. Please help us support Toys forTots – Marshall County Campaign and give a very Merry Christmas to children in our area.

Shows start Thanksgiving night, November 28, 2013 and run every night (weather permitting) through January 1, 2014. Show times nightly are from 6pm to 10pm, again weather permitting. A little rain is not a problem, but during heavy rainfall or other severe weather, we will shut down the show for safety.

Tune to 99.7 FM and “Listen to the Lights!”
The show is located at 703 SW 2nd Street, Kingston, OK 73439

Directions :
From Highway 32
Take Highway 32 towards Kingston, Turn right onto Chickasaw

Tune to 99.7 FM

Street (2nd Street before R/R Tracks). Take 1st Right on SW 2nd Street and drive ¼ mile to 703 SW 2nd Street (dirt road) on your Left.

From Highway 70 East / West
Take Highway 70 East or West into Kingston. Turn onto Highway 32, take 2nd left on Chickasaw Street. Take 1st Right on SW 2nd Street and drive ¼ mile to 703 SW 2nd Street (dirt road) on your Left.

From Highway 377
Take Highway 377 North / South to Highway 32 (Crossroads). Turn east on Highway 32 into Kingston. Turn right on Chickasaw Street (2nd Street before R/R Tracks). Take 1st Right on SW 2nd Street and drive ¼ mile to 703 SW 2nd Street (dirt road) on your Left.

From Highways 69/75 or Durant
Take Highway 70 West 18 miles into Kingston. Turn slight left on Highway 32, take 2nd left on Chickasaw Street. Take 1st Right on SW 2nd Street and drive ¼ mile to 703 SW 2nd Street (dirt road) on your Left.

From Ardmore
Take Highway 70 East into Kingston. Turn Right onto Highway 32, take 2nd left on Chickasaw Street. Take 1st Right on SW 2nd Street and drive ¼ mile to 703 SW 2nd Street (dirt road) on your Left.

From Madill
Take Highway 70 East into Kingston. Turn right onto Highway 32, take 2nd left on Chickasaw Street. Take 1st Right on SW 2nd Street and drive ¼ mile to 703 SW 2nd Street (dirt road) on your Left.

From Tishomingo
Take Highway 99/377 to Madill. Turn Left on Highway 70 East. Take Highway 70 East into Kingston. Turn right onto Highway 32, take 2nd left on Chickasaw Street. Take 1st Right on SW 2nd Street and drive ¼ mile to 703 SW 2nd Street (dirt road) on your Left.

For more Christmas Celebrations in the Texoma area, visit www.texomaconnect.com.  Find music events, parades, live nativity scenes and candlelight services around Lake Texoma.

Brunch with Santa

Commerce, Texas

Santa is coming to northeast Texas, making an early stop for the Brunch with

Twist_It Baloons 

Santa Event at the Northeast Texas Children’s Museum. The Commerce Kiwanis will provide a pancake breakfast. Returning for the 2013 Brunch will be the cupcake Christmas train and balloon creations from Twist-It Balloons.

As all children anticipate, Santa and Mrs. Claus will be making a stop. They will be in their sleigh to talk to the children. Children may choose to write a letters to Santa Claus. A Christmas story will be read, Christmas crafts will be made, and the choir from Commerce Elementary will sing as part of the event.
 “This is my favorite event of the year,” said Sharline Freeman, Executive Director. “It is exciting for us to see the children so happy with the excitement of Christmas.”

  Children will have the opportunity to play throughout the Children’s Museum. They can make bubbles in the Kiwanis Bubble Room, doctor the dogs in the Commerce Veterinary Clinic exhibit, buy groceries in the Brookshire’s exhibit, milk a cow, and play in the forty play areas in the Children’s Museum.

“This event has become a highlight for families in northeast Texas,” said Dr. Gil Naizer, president of the Northeast Texas Children’s Museum Board of Directors. “It is a great way to begin the Christmas season.”
So get your cameras ready, bring your wish list and say “Hello!” to jolly, old Saint Nick at the Brunch with Santa on Saturday, December 7 from 9:30 to 11:30 at the Northeast Texas Children’s Museum. Tickets for the event are $7.00 per person prior to the event, or $10.00 at the door on the day of the event. For more information, call the Northeast Texas Children's Museum at (903) 886-6055

The Christmas season is a magical time for kids of all ages in the Lake Texoma area with parades, historic home tours, concerts, the Christmas Pops, and Holiday Lights..Find all kinds of fun Texoma Christmas events and things to do to celebrate the season on  www.TexomaConnect.combrunch.