Just for fun I wanted to start this brand new year off with a crazy twist to my column. Come with me into a fictional elementary classroom as the teacher, Miss Randie, tries her best to teach Oklahoma history and also introduce the kids to our state’s fascinating world of wildlife. So grab a chair and let’s watch her mold these young leaders of tomorrow. Be quiet here comes the teacher now.

Boys and girls, take your seats today we are going to learn about Oklahoma history. Pay attention because there might be a pop quiz. Yesterday was the first day of 2009; did you know Oklahoma’s recorded history began in 1541 by Spanish explorer Coronado and we eventually became the 46th state in 1907? OK, I can see you are not finding my lesson very interesting, so let’s see, who can tell me some fun facts about Oklahoma?

That’s right Matt, Oklahoma has more man-made lakes than any other state. To be more specific we have over 1-million surface acres of water and 2,000 more miles of shoreline than the Atlantic and Gulf coats combined. You get a gold star young man; and yes Tyler it is true that forest cover approximately 24% of Oklahoma.

Very good Courtney, Oklahoma does have four mountain ranges including the Ouachitas, Arbuckles, Wichitas, and the Kiamichis. I’m not certain of all the kinds of wild animals in our forests and mountains, but that is a good question Jenny.

Speaking of animals, can anyone tell me what our state bird is? That’s right Brian, it is the scissor-tailed flycatcher, now did you also know the state animal is the Buffalo? If you want to see some real buffalo you should travel to Woolaroc near Bartlesville. Yes Kelsey, it is true you can actually eat barbecued buffalo at Woolaroc and no; buffalo doesn’t taste like chicken.

This is fun; let’s see if any of you know the state fish. I’m impressed Katrina, you are right; our state fish is the Sand Bass. No Trevor I do not want to see the state lizard; yes I know it’s called the Mountain Boomer and young man, you best keep your pet lizard it in that box.

OK boys and girls. Did you know that the raccoon is the state furbearer and the state game animal is the white-tailed deer? What was that, Katlin? No, I don’t know why the raccoon crossed the road. To prove to the armadillo it could be done? I see, oh your uncle told you that joke?

We are getting off track children, so let’s focus. Get off the desk Taylor and sit down! I see you are getting bored. I suppose we can make this a little more interesting, so let’s talk turkey.

Did you know the state game bird of Oklahoma is the Wild Turkey? How many of you ate turkey at Thanksgiving or Christmas? Many of you probably have dads and uncles who love to hunt for turkeys so let’s dig a little deeper into this subject. We are always taught to obey the law — isn’t that right? Therefore, we need to tell the hunters to check the turkey hunting regulations pertaining to individual counties, right?

Just like the Indians used to hunt the buffalo, many hunters today will hunt for turkey using a bow and arrow. But they have to make sure they hunt during the archery season, Oct. 1 through Jan. 15.

Now children, pay attention. I know you are anxious to go outside and play in the snow, but in a few months it will be spring time again. Did you know there is a turkey season which extends from April 6 to May 6 statewide? Now here is the exciting news for those of you who enjoy doing things with your dad. There is a special youth turkey season on April 4-5.

Well, there’s the bell, so be sure to put your books in your lockers and take these important Oklahoma facts home to your parents. If your dad goes turkey hunting, be sure to remind him to wear plenty of orange so he will not be mistaken for one of those wild animals. Put your snow boots on and fasten up your coats. Trevor, get up off the floor! What do you mean you lost your lizard?

Oh for goodness sakes, how long until summer break?

Rocky Anderson’s column appears on Fridays. Send your comments or ideas to Ra101460@yahoo.com or reach him by phone at 351-5545.