An Oklahoma historian and author will bring a unique view of the Sooner State's rich history as the second speaker in The Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation's 10th anniversary edition of its popular speakers series, Profiles and Perspectives.

Bob L. Blackburn, Ph.D., will offer his entertaining presentation, "Profiles in Oklahoma History," at 7 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 25, at the Charles B. Goddard Center, located at 401 1st Street S.W., Ardmore. The 2007-2008 Profiles and Perspectives series is offered at no cost, courtesy of the Noble Foundation.

Blackburn is a native Oklahoman with roots in both the eastern and western parts of the state. He currently serves as executive director of the Oklahoma Historical Society. During his presentation, Blackburn will highlight the characteristics and events that have made Oklahoma's history unique, illustrating with vivid stories of Oklahomans who experienced each event firsthand. Blackburn's biographical stories come from his book "You Know You Belong to the Land: A Centennial History of Oklahoma," recently published by the Oklahoma Centennial Commission.

"This year we decided that the Profiles and Perspectives series would feature a centennial theme and take a look back at the events and people who established and built this great state," said Mary Kate Wilson, Noble Foundation Granting Program Officer and chair of the Profiles and Perspectives Committee. "Dr. Blackburn's presentation is more than just a historical account; it is a tribute to the people and history of Oklahoma."

Additional information about the Profiles and Perspectives series can be obtained by calling Wilson at 580.223.5810 or visiting www.noble.org/profiles.

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News Release Issued: October 15, 2007

The Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation, Inc. (www.noble.org), headquartered in Ardmore, Okla., is a nonprofit organization conducting agricultural, forage improvement and plant biology research; assisting farmers and ranchers through educational and consultative agricultural programs; and providing grants to nonprofit charitable, educational and health organizations.