SULPHUR, Okla. – With school out and summer in full swing, the Chickasaw Cultural Center offers an array of fun activities and events for all ages.
Lecture Series: Pollinators Have Much to Teach Us
The Chickasaw Cultural Center will host the Chickasaw Nation Lecture Series: “Pollinators Have Much to Teach Us.” The lecture will be streamed live via the Chickasaw Nation Facebook page at www.facebook.com/TheChickasawNation.
Thalia Miller, director of horticulture for Chickasaw Nation Culture and Humanities will present at 1 p.m.Thursday, June 21.
Children’s Festival
The annual Children’s Festival provides fun for the whole family Saturday, June 23.
Children and family will have access to make and take crafts, face painting, food and hydration, a bean bag toss game and Living Village activities.
Children will receive free gifts while supplies last.
The Chipota (Children’s) Film Festival will take place Saturday, June 23. The festival showcases family-oriented cinema.
“Toy Story” will be shown at 10:30 a.m. followed by “Charlotte’s Web” at noon. “Pinocchio” will play at 1:30 p.m. followed by “Stuart Little” at 3 p.m.
The lecture and Children’s Festival, along with the Chipota Film Festival, is open to the public at no charge.
The musical drama “The Greatest Showman” will be shown at 6:30 p.m., Saturday, June 23, in the Anoliꞌ Theater. Prices for the showing are $3 for children age 12 and under, $4 for adults or $6 for a movie deal that includes ticket, popcorn and drink.
A special thank you goes out to the Ringling Eagle for their much appreciated help with compiling these results, also thanks to the OSU Extension Office of Jefferson County for getting these statistics to the newspapers in a very timely manner. Everyone’s help is appreciated.
More pictures will be added this week!
Hollis Dickey Award Winners
Samantha HornerDalee BarrickRandi Linton
Cattle:
Heifers:
Red Angus: Class 1: Laken Deboard, Ryan 4-H, Res Breed Champion; Class 2: Laken Deboard, Ryan 4-H, Breed Champion, Res. Grand Champion
Hereford: Randi Linton, Ryan FFA, Breed Champion
Mini Hereford: Class 1: Lakin Howard, Ringling 4-H, Res Breed Champion; Class 2: Caitlyn Ramsey, Waurika 4-H, Breed Champion
Shorthorn: Braden Jackson, Ringling FFA, Breed Champion, Grand Champion
Maine: Dalee Barrick, Waurika FFA, Breed Champion
Commercial: Rance Howard, Ringling 4-H, Res Breed Champion; Michael Gore, Ryan FFA, Breed Champion
Steers:
Angus: Lakin Howard, Ringling 4-H, Res Breed Champion; Cody Ramsey, Waurika 4-H, Breed Champion
Cody Ramsey – Grand Champion and Intermediate ShowmanshipKynlee Waters – Reserve Grand ChampionBraden Jackson – Grand ChampionLaken Deboard – Reserve Grand ChampionCaitlyn Ramsey – Junior ShowmanshipKylie Waters – Senior Showmanship
Sheep:
Ewe:
Southdown: Reese Reynolds, Waurika 4-H, 1st, Breed Champion, Grand Champion
Speckled Face: Sam Brown, Ryan FFA, 1st, Breed Champion; Sadie Smith, Waurika 4-H, 2nd, Res. Breed Champion
Crossbreed: Houston Scott, Waurika FFA, 1st, Breed Champion; Haylee Jo McGuire, Ringling 4-H, 2nd, Res. Breed Champion; 3rd Place Brock Smith, Ryan FFA, 3rd
Showmanship: Jr.- Reese Reynolds, Waurika 4-H; Int.- Houston Scott, Waurika FFA; Sr.- Sam Brown, Ryan FFA; School Group- Waurika
Houston Scott – Grand Champion, Intermediate ShowmanshipHaylee Jo McGuire – Reserve Grand ChampionCaitlyn Ramsey – Reserve Grand ChampionAsia Smith – Reserve Grand ChampionTeddy Brown – Senior Showman, Breed Champion
Goats:
Doe:
Div.1: Class 1: Jaci Jo Gholson, Waurika 4-H, 1st, Div. Champion; Riley Ross, Ryan 4-H, 2nd; Charley Sellers, Waurika 4-H; Class 2: Seth Waid, Waurika FFA, 1st, Res. Div. Champion; Emily Waid, Waurika FFA, 2nd; Kaylee Morris, Waurika FFA, 3rd; Div. 2: Class 3: Braden Jackson, Ringling FFA, 1st, Div. Champion; Abby Davis, Waurika 4-H, 2nd; Hannah Williams, Ryan 4-H, 3rd; Kaylee Morris, Waurika FFA, 4th; Class 4: Emily Waid, Waurika FFA, 1st, Res. Div. Champion; Isaac Gholson, Waurika FFA, 2nd; Div. 3: Class 5: Addison Jackson, Ringling 4-H, 1st, Div. Champion, Grand Champion; Caitlyn Ramsey, Waurika 4-H, 2nd, Res. Division Champion; Jaci Jo Gholson, Waurika 4-H, 3rd; Emily Waid, Waurika FFA, 4th; Class 6: Isaac Gholson, Waurika FFA, 1st; Riley Ross, Ryan 4-H, 2nd; Tucker Mashore, Ringling 4-H, 3rd; Savannah Lashley, Ryan FFA, 4th: Div.4: Class 7: Caitlyn Ramsey, Waurika 4-H, 1st, Res. Div. Champion; Addison Jackson, Ringling 4-H, 2nd; Braden Jackson, Ringling FFA, 3rd; Class 8: Braden Jackson, Ringling FFA, 1st, Div. Champion, Res. Div. Champion; Savannah Lashley, Ryan FFA, 2nd;
Wether Goat:
Div. 1: Class 1: Caitlyn Ramsey, Waurika 4-H, 1st, Div. Champion, Res. Grand Champion; Jaci Jo Gholson, Waurika 4-H, 2nd, Res. Div. Champion; Lexi Streeter, Waurika FFA, 3rd; Class 2: Riley Ross, Ryan 4-H, 1st; Isaac Gholson, Waurika FFA, 2nd; Lexi Streeter, Waurka FFA, 3rd; Gracie Walling, Waurika FFA, 4th; Div. 2; Class 3: Tucker Mashore, Ringling 4-H, 1st; Riley Ross, Ryan 4-H, 2nd; Seth Waid, Waurika FFA, 3rd; Riley Ross, Ryan 4-H, 4th; Class 4: Isaac Gholson, Waurika FFA, 1st, Div. Champion, Grand Champion; Tucker Mashore, Ringling 4-H, 2nd, Res. Div. Champion; Seth Waid, Waurika FFA, 3rd; Showmanship: Jr.-Caitlyn Ramsey, Waurika 4-H; Int.- Isaac Gholson, Waurika FFA; Sr.- Braden Jackson, Ringling FFA; School Group- Ringling
Addison Jackson – Grand ChampionBraden Jackson – Reserve Grand Champion, Senior ShowmanshipIsaac Gholson – Grand Champion, Intermediate ShowmanshipReese Reynolds – Reserve Grand Champion, Junior Showmanship.
Swine
Gilts:
Berkshire: Class 1: Eston Hardy, Ryan 4-H, 1st; Koble Lewis, Ryan 4-H, 2nd; Class 2: Kanyon McGahey, Ringling FFA, 1st, Breed Champion; Jordan Longest, Ringling FFA, 2nd. Res. Breed Champion; Avery Combs, Ryan FFA, 3rd
Chesterwhite: Class 1: Hayden Brown, Waurika FFA, 1st, Breed Champion; Madisen Rhoades, Ryan FFA, 2nd, Res. Breed Champion; Carter Combs, Ryan 4-H, 3rd
Duroc: Class 1: Walker Rawlings, Jefferson Co. 4-H; Class 2: Coltin Smith, Ringling 4-H, 1st, Breed Champion; Zoey Mercer, Ringling 4-H, 2nd, Res. Breed Champion; Kendi Barron, Ringling 4-H, 3rd; Maddy Ridenour, Ringling 4-H, 4th; Kalen Weldon, Ryan 4-H, 5th; Kanyon McGahey, Ringling FFA, 6th; Jasmine Villarreal, Ryan 4-H, 7th; Racen Williams, Ryan 4-H, 8th; Class 3: Samantha Horner, Waurika 4-H, 1st; Rhett Roberts, Ringling 4-H, 2nd; Carter Combs, Ryan 4-H, 3rd; Class 4: Haley Poage, Ryan 4-H, 1st
Hampshire: Class 1: Koble Lewis Ryan 4-H, 1st, Breed Champion; Austin Smith, Ringling 4-H, 2nd, Res. Breed Champion; Beane Combs, Ryan 4-H, 3rd; Kage McGahey, Ringling FFA, 4th
“The name of the barber you worked for, his name was Roy.”
If I had ever heard his first name, I certainly don’t remember. Thanks Rex.
The American Legion had their family night with food, music and dancing. There was a pretty good crowd and the music was enjoyable. Thanks to Bill Roberson, Cary Gore, Gene Chesley and David Sorrell. The music for the most part was what I would call classic country. I heard songs Saturday night that I had not heard in a long time. All four band members taking turns singing lead and especially memorable was Mr. Chesley’s comedic turn a’ la Ben Colder. Ricky Martin cooked the burgers and hot dogs, he did a good job. I don’t care what Santos says’ I like my burgers thick. There was also a fifty/fifty drawing and of all people, Dustan Bryant won.
On my list of favorite books has to include, “One Good Turn: A Natural History of the Screwdriver and the Screw” by Witold Rybczynski. This is a very interesting book that is exactly what the title says. The author, an architect, professor and writer was asked by a magazine editor in 1999 to write a short essay on the most useful tool of the last 1000 years. Mr. Rybczynski took the job and produced a really interesting and fact filled book about the screwdriver and the screw. I know the book sounds odd but this is definitely a case of not judging the book by its cover. Another book on the list is “The Old Man and the Sea” by Ernest Hemingway. This was the last major work of Mr. Hemingway to be published before his death. Almost any of his writing could easily make the list, be they novels or short stories, but this is one of my favorite books. As I age, this story seems to grow on me even more. There were also a couple of good movie versions of this story. The first starring Spencer Tracy and the other a made for television movie, starring Anthony Quinn. Both fine actors, in truth I would probably pay to watch either of them read the phone book.
One of the questions that I get as a reader. What do you read? The answer is almost anything. I had a wonderful teacher, Ms. Cleta Rickard. I did for the most part enjoy the part of her class that covered English Lit. No matter what else, you were going to cover Chaucer. Don’t ask me why but he bored me to tears. Maybe I’ll give it another try. The late Mrs. Rickard grew up in Ryan as Cleta Huskey. That doesn’t have anything to do with boring old Mr. Chaucer, it’s just a little FYI. I guess I approach my reading much as I do my writing. I start out one place and often end up someplace completely different. That may speak to a certain lack of direction, just don’t tell Curtis.
I am writing this on Monday evening as the storms that have been brewing all day seem to be (knock on wood) passing us by. For those not so fortunate, I hope you escaped unscathed.
SULPHUR, Okla. – Beat the heat by planning a trip to the Chickasaw Cultural Center, 867 Cooper Memorial Road, during September.
With events like the Labor Day Celebration and the Grandparents Celebration as well as exciting exhibits, there is plenty of fun activities to enjoy while visiting the cultural center.
Labor Day Celebration
Join us for the Labor Day Celebration Saturday, Sept. 1, and Sunday, Sept. 2, for a weekend filled with festivities.
Listen to storytellers and visit with cultural instructors to discover traditions passed down from generations with cultural demonstrations, traditional games, stomp dancing and more.
The animated film “Sherlock Gnomes” will be showing at 3 p.m. in the Anoli’ Theater Saturday, Sept. 1.
In observance of Labor Day, the Chickasaw Cultural Center will be closed Monday, Sept. 3.
Grandparents Celebration
In honor of grandparents, the Chickasaw Cultural Center is hosting a weekend celebration Saturday, Sept. 8, and Sunday, Sept. 9.
Activities include stomp dance demonstrations and cultural demonstrations. Grandparents will receive special discounts in the Chikasha Poya Exhibit Center, the Aachompa’ gift shops and the Aaimpa’ Cafe.
The film “Cocoon” will be showing at 1 p.m. in the Anoli’ Theater.
Exhibits
The Chickasaw Cultural Center is currently showcasing two historical exhibits.
The Te Ata Exhibit and the Sculpting Cultures: Southeast and Southwest Native Pottery Exhibit will be available to visit during the celebration.
Explore the life of Mary “Te Ata” Thompson Fisher and her journey to become one of the greatest Native American performers of all time now through Nov. 11 in the Aapisa’ Art Gallery.
View items owned and worn by Te Ata, as well as memorabilia and props from the recently released, award-winning film.
The Sculpting Cultures: Southeast and Southwest Native Pottery Exhibit features historic Pueblo pottery from the Keres language family and modern pottery from Five Tribes artists.
This exhibit is a partnership with the Indian Arts Research Center at the School for Advanced Research and the Museum of the Red River. The pottery will be displayed in the Aaittafama’ Room now through Sept. 2.
The events and exhibits are open to the public at no charge.
DUNCAN, Okla. – It’s the ninth year for the Chisholm Trail Heritage Center to offer its free National Day of the Cowboy celebration, Saturday, July 27. With funding from the Oklahoma Arts Council, the museum is able to provide live music and a children’s art project during this event. This day is also the busiest day of the year for the Heritage Center.
Designed as a fun celebration and a way to give back to the community, there’s no admission charge into the museum on the National Day of the Cowboy. Guests can choose to attend morning, mid-day or afternoon and they will be able to enjoy everything planned. All the fun is indoors. The entire day of activities, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., is for families and individual fun – no matter the age.
All the fun is indoors. Music, exhibits, a few surprises and interesting individuals – an author, bison ranchers, a basket weaver– will be available for guests to meet.
This year, a nationally-touring exhibit, Bison: Ancient. Massive. Wild., is available to see and the art project will be bison related. It will be the final weekend to see the bison exhibit. It is the largest exhibit the Heritage Center has hosted and is a visual, educational and historical display.
Visitors to the Heritage Center for its biggest event of the year always remark how much they enjoy meeting the special guests booked. This year’s out-of-town guests include Oklahoma author, Kristi Eaton of Tulsa, who wrote “The Main Streets of Oklahoma: Okie Stories from Every County”; Pauline Asbury owner of Habasketry, of Oklahoma City, who will demonstrate basket weaving; and bison ranchers James and Sandy Stepp from Wichita Buffalo Co. at Sandy Springs Farm in Hinton. The Stepps will feature their products, share stories about bison herd management and have a surprise for the children. Also, visitors get a chance to see “A Texas State of Mind” that has original paintings from Nocona, Texas artist, Larry G. Lemons.
Live music entertainment will be the Cowboys at Heart band, with Allen Wooten, Missy Frye and Gaylon Blankenship, from the Comanche Opry in Comanche. They have been entertaining the guests to the Heritage Center for years on Duncan’s original National Day of the Cowboy celebration.
“I am a cowboy at heart and from this area. The Heritage Center is history of this area,” Wooten said. His band formed about six years ago and the Heritage Center is one of their favorite venues to perform. Plenty of chairs are staged so visitors can sit and enjoy the music or dance if they choose. Wooten and his band also perform during jam sessions at his Cowboy Opry venue on Thursday nights.
Frye, one of the band members, began playing guitar in 2005 and has been singing for most of her life.
“Allen and I have jammed together since 2005, but probably playing consistently (as a band) for audiences the past six or so years. The Heritage Center is special because of all the history it portrays from our ancestors,” Frye said. “My grandparents came across the plains in a covered wagon so seeing life size images of all they saw as children is interesting to me. Not to mention all the kind people who have invited us to play each year. It is so much fun and a highlight for the band.”
Blankenship’s name may be familiar to fans of Summer Breeze, who he played with for years, also having opened for many country bands. “I quit playing music in 1986, then started back in 2006. I love playing with Missy Frye and Allen Wooten. We have so much fun playing together.”
Over the years, they have performed at ranches, rodeos, firefighters’ banquets, Fourth of July celebrations and cowboy church events. They play traditional cowboy songs, with some gospel and old country tunes mixed into their sets, which vary from venue to venue.
And while the more mature visitors enjoy the music, children can play in the Interactive Area, the Duncan General Store and create an art project to take home. Each year, the art project is different.
Visitors can experience the 4D theater, Campfire Theater, and tour the Garis Gallery of the West on this day of free admission. Tours will not be provided on this day and guests or large groups wanting to learn more about the history of the museum and the Chisholm Trail are encouraged to pick another day to visit.
FYI:
Chisholm Trail Heritage Center’s National Day of the Cowboy background information.
In 2016, the Heritage Center was awarded the “Cowboy Keeper Award” by the National Day of the Cowboy non-profit organization. The award is given to those who make substantial contributions to the preservation of pioneer heritage and cowboy culture, while also inspiring others to do the same. Since 2010, the Heritage Center has been celebrating National Day of the Cowboy with a free admission day. In 2013, Oklahoma state legislators approved a resolution to officially recognize NDOC.
Please visit our website: www.onthechisholmtrail.com and our Facebook page to learn more about all of these activities and other events.
Chisholm Trail Heritage Center is open 7 days a week, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday; 1-5 p.m. Sunday. Located at 1000 Chisholm Trail Parkway in Duncan. Call 580-252-6692 for information. It is an official “Best Heritage Attraction,” an Oklahoma Outstanding Attraction, a National Day of the Cowboy ‘Cowboy Keeper” and a Top Ten Western Museum – True West Magazine. Chisholm Trail Heritage Center Association is a 501c3 non-profit.
Saturday nights dance at the American Legion Post #183 was a success. The music was provided by a five piece band consisting of the regulars. Bill Roberson, Cary Gore and Gene Chesley as well as newcomers Joy and Don McCullough supplied a mix of old country, middle aged country and gospel. The music lovers and dancers don’t equal the days of the Old Ryan Stomp but the numbers seem to be growing. I enjoyed hearing “Go Rest High On that Mountain” and also their version of “Arkansas River” but hearing Joy McCullough sing some old gospel tunes really took me back. If you have not been to one of these get togethers then you are missing out. Besides the music you can visit with your neighbors or even meet some new folks if you are of a mind.
Don’t forget this coming Saturday the Ryan Volunteer Fire Department is hosting a 5K fun run/walk. It will be starting at 8:00 am and they will be serving lunch after the event at the Fire Department. Come out and support the fire fighters and all the participants.
One of the members of the Irving Baptist Church told me that this last Sunday they had their monthly meal at the church. It consisted of fried chicken, various salads, watermelon and home made ice cream. Telling me this on Monday seems a bit mean spirited, but I’m not one to hold a grudge, especially if you tell me in time for the next one.
Monte Wright is refurbishing the benches on Washington. He has the new wood on the first bench and it is back in place. It’s my understanding that the Ryan Beautification Group is providing the material and Monte is donating his time and labor.
The book related section of this article is not about one book alone but about reading in general. How did my fellow readers get started down the road to being bibliophiles? I don’t really remember how it got started for me but there were always books in our home while I was growing up and I had access to the school library. After my folks purchased a set of World Book Encyclopedias, I spent a lot of time reading those volumes that told of far away places or animals and customs that were foreign to me. From there I graduated to books that at times were probably a bit mature for me, some of those I re-read later and then could grasp the nuances that had escaped my young self. Some books and authors were introduced to me by teachers and older siblings. Mrs. Rickard lead me to Shakespeare and Chaucer. My brother Phil gave me the gift of Hemingway. My father fed my love of history, on his bookshelf were stories of the American Civil War by Bruce Catton. On my own (if that is even possible) I discovered James Fenimore Cooper and Emerson. Some of my most prized possessions are volumes of Thoreau and Walt Whitman given to me by my sister Merrianne. Not everything that I read is a classic, I enjoy a good adventure story as much as the next person. Drop me a line and let me known how you got started.
Maybe next time I’ll discuss my musical influences and how my sister Lynn scarred me for life with some her musical tastes.
I have been remiss in my reporting or lack there of on the activities of the Ryan Beautification group. If you have been down to the Ryan Business District on Washington then you will have noticed the new Ryan Cowpersons banners that have been installed on the newly repainted light poles. They are really nice looking, so if you see any of the folks responsible, be sure and commend them for their hard work.
The school year is drawing to a close and various groups and organizations are having their year end festivities. The sports banquet is Monday night and the FFA banquet is having theirs Tuesday night. As I mentioned in an earlier column, the Ryan School Variety show will be Tuesday, May 14th. Be sure to come out and watch the many talented kids.
On Saturday, May 18th there will be a dance sponsored by the American Legion. There will be concessions available. There will also be a live band consisting of Bill Roberson, Cary Gore and Gene Chesley. I’ve heard Mr. Roberson and Mr. Gore play and sing but I believe this will be a first for me to hear Mr. Chesley, I understand he plays a fine dobro guitar. Be sure and come out and support the American Legion, hear some good music and have a good time.
For the book portion of this column I will be discussing one author and several of her books. Angie Debo, in the early and middle part of the twentieth century wrote a great deal about Oklahoma history and also the history of the Native American People and how the government dealt with the people that were moved to make way for westward expansion.
Ms. Debo was born in Kansas and moved with her parents to Indian Territory as a small child. Her dissertation, “ The Rise and Fall of the Choctaw Republic” was published by the University Press and received much praise, but her next book, “And Still the Rivers Run” was more controversial. This book described how the Five Civilized Tribes were first moved to Indian Territory and then deprived of the very land and resources granted to them by federal treaty. With the passing of the Dawes Act in 1887, non-tribal members were able, with the help of the very people that were tasked with protecting the tribes, to swindle their way to ownership of what was formally tribal property. Ms. Debo had a hard time finding a publisher for “And Still the Waters Run”, but it eventually found a publisher with the Princeton University Press. Angie Debo went on to write among others, “The Road to Disappearance”, The Five Civilized Tribes of Oklahoma”, “A History of Indians of the United States” and “Geronimo, The Man, His Time, His Place”. If you have any interest in history, any or all of these books are well worth the time spent finding and reading.
It’s hard to think about Terral, Oklahoma without thinking of mouth-watering watermelons.
People from all over love the watermelons grown in Jefferson County and every summer they will drive any distance to Terral just satisfy that craving.
The Blevins Brothers, Jerry and Charles, have been providing watermelon fans with what they crave for over 20 years.
Jerry and Charles grow the watermelon and canteloupe right in Terral.
However, they sell more than just watermelon and canteloupe.
Customers who stop by their shed just south of Terral on Highway 81 can find canteloupes, pickled okra, pickles, plum jelly, and salsa. Sometimes they even have tomatoes.
They sell around 1200 quarts of pickles a year. The pickles are the result of the labor of Charles and Loretta Blevins.
Some customers pick up 5 or 6 cases at a time.
A woman from Decatur picks up 10 cases per month to resell at her stand.
At one time there were watermelon patches all over southern Jefferson County.
Doug Gunter, who has been working with them since he was in high school, remembers he and his friends picking watermelons out in the heat all hours of the day and evening.
One time a crew from south Texas came up and while picking watermelons they engaged in a little contest with the south Texas boys.
The Texas crew had already been picking for a while during the season and it was still early for Doug and his friends.
The Terral boys outdid the Texas boys by loading their truck faster.
It shocked the Texas professionals that they had been outdone by some high school boys from Oklahoma.
Doug remembers the football team working during the summer and being ready for the season. Coaches would only have to practice once a day so the players could pick melons the rest of the day.
The cost of production has affected the growing of watermelons in Terral.
At one time about 75% of the people in Terral were involved in the watermelon venture.
Charles has been growing watermelons since 1969. Together he and Jerry have been growing and selling watermelons for over 20 years.
Charles got into the business because of his father-in-law.
Jerry and Charles remembers the days of the Terral Watermelon Festival. It was a popular event for 50 years.
Besides watermelons, there was usually a parade, a classic car show, live music, mule jumping contests, and a dunk tank.
Doug Gunter remembers that most the trees down by the Baptist Church in Terral had trucks under them with farmers selling watermelons.
Years ago, Doug remembered supplying Rush Springs with watermelons for their festival.
Charles said the old timers remembersputting stickerson Terral watermelons saying “Rush Springs Watermelons” then loading them on the train.
Over the years they have got to know quite a few people, many of them have become loyal customers and friends.
During our interview, people were waiting in line to pick up their load of watermelon and canteloupes.
Tonya Wickware and her son Wrangler pull up with another load fresh from the field and everyone jumps into action.
Over the years there is no telling how many melons the Blevins have sold.
It’s nice to see them carrying on the Terral Tradition—supplying the country with the best watermelons money can buy.
Recently some much deserving students of Waurika High School were recognized during the presentation of the 2018 Mr. WHS and Ms. WHS.
This year’s election was Senior Michael Bryant as Mr. WHS and Senior Dalee Barrick as Ms. WHS.
According to Mr. Lunn at this year’s ceremony, it is the highest honor bestowed on students of Waurika High School. The winners are selected by a committee that only knows the students by their submitted resumes. It’s truly unbiased.
Back Row: Seth Cathey-third runner up, Aaron Nitka-second runner up, Braden Woods-first runner up Front Row: Hayden Brown, and Michael W. Bryant, Jr.-Mr. WHS
Back Row: Alexandria Jennings, Dalee Barrick-Ms. WHS, Kylie Waters Front Row: Karlee Bethiaume-first runner up, Emily Waid-third runner up, Samantha Horner-second runner up, Madison Roberson
Here are the list of candidates and their resumes.
Juniors
Hayden Brown
Hayden is a dedicated student at Waurika High School. Hayden has participated in FCCLA and FFA, and also been a part of the cross-country and baseball teams.
Hayden has been a very active member of his local FCCLA chapter. He has spent his time being involved in many service activities including raising funds for Toys for Tots organization, participating in Autism Awareness Fundraiser, and raising funds for Operation Christmas Toys.
Hayden has donated his time by volunteering to teach elementary students about Halloween safety, working at the Regional Food Bank in Oklahoma City, and assisted children with crafts the Waurika Public Library.
Hayden attends the First Baptist Church in Ringling, OK. He has volunteered to help with various activities around their church including being an assistant at Vacation Bible School, working as their worship sound technician, and lending a hand in the church nursery. He also spent a June participating in Super Summer with the Oklahoma Baptist University.
Hayden is also a hard worker, having spent his high school years working cattle, tutoring students, working at Walmart, and serving as a lifeguard at the community pool. Hayden has also been a regular student on the Principal’s Honor roll.
Alexandria Jennings
Allee is a dedicated member of Waurika High Schools. Allee is a member of FFA and has participated in cheerleading, cross-country, basketball, fast-pitch softball, and track.
Allee has been an active member of our local FFA chapter. She has attended many activities to further her role as a member and leader such as state convention, FFA camp, and banquets. She has showed her dedication and hardworking by showing pigs for FFA. She has spent hours working and training with her animals, which has required dedication and persistence.
Allee has earned many awards as a high school student including the letter W award in athletics, being a state qualifier on the opening and closing team, and earning the Greenhand award for Waurika FFA.
Allee continues to exhibit her work ethic by babysitting and working for Headrick Insurance Agency in the summer. Allee has also been a student on the Principal’s Honor Roll.
Aaron Nitka
Aaron has been a member of FFA, Beta Club, and Student Council. He has participated in scholastic meets and the drama club play. Aaron has also been on many teams at WHS including cross-country, baseball, basketball, football, golf, track, and Academic Team.
Aaron has had many leadership roles including being a treasurer for FFA, president of his class, and quarterback of his high school football team.
Aaron has earned many awards during his high school years including academic awards for physical science, biology, algebra 1 and English 2. He has also earned athletic awards such as Southern 8 All-Conference Pitcher and Southern 8 All-Conference Quarterback.
As an active member of the FFA, Aaron has spent time planting flowers at the nursing home, helping elderly members of our community move furniture and volunteering at the Parker Ranch Bull Sale.
Aaron is also a hard worker outside of the classroom having worked at the Waurika Golf Course, Redstone Ranch, Price Cattle Co., and Colt Morrison Cattle Co.
Madison Roberson
Madison is a very active member at Waurika High School. Madison is a member of the Oklahoma Honor Society, FFA, Student Council, and National Honor Society. Madison has also been active in scholastic meets, cheerleading, cross-country, baseball, basketball, football, golf, power-lifting, fast-pitch softball, and track.
Madison has been very active as a leader in her school. She has been an officer for the class every year, vice-president of FFA, vice-president of student council, and a captain for her basketball team. She has volunteered her time through these groups to participate in the angel tree and canned food drives.
Madison has received many athletic awards including basketball Southern 8 Offensive Player of the year, Oilfield Defensive Player of the year, Southern 8 Most Valuable Player, and third place in shot put at the state competition.
Madison spends her time outside of the classroom remaining veery active. She has worked for the summer reading program at the Waurika Public Library, Eagletown Daycare and Waurika Quik Mart.
Emily Waid
Emily is a very involved student at Waurika High School. She has been a member of the Academic team, Oklahoma honor society, FFA, gifted and talented program, student council, National honor society, band cheerleading, cross-country, basketball, and track. She has also been involved in scholastic meets and the drama club play.
Emily has held many leadership roles at WHS including being a class officer, student council representative, FFA sentinel, FFA secretary, and Beta club secretary. She has developed her role as a leader by attending the FFA Made for Excellence conference, State and National FFA convention, FFA alumni camp and serving as a Hugh O’Bryan Youth Leadership representative.
Emily has received many awards such as being a state qualifier for the FFA opening/closing team, placing on the meat judging team, and division champion doe goat at the Jefferson County Livestock Show. she has received academic awards for animal science, algebra 1, and English 1. She was also a member of the district champions in basketball and received an excellence rating in the solo band contest. Emily has also received Leadership Training for Christ medals in bible bowl, teaching, and drama. Emily is a regular student on the principal’s honor roll and superintendent’s honor roll.
Emily has spent a vast amount of time volunteering in her community. She has worked the Church of Christ Golden Age Banquet, FFA Christmas Angel Tree, Benny G. Adkin’s Day, and on the Chris Kidd for Senate Campaign, among many other activities.
Emily also demonstrates her work ethic at the Eagletown Daycare in Waurika. She also spends her time outside of WHS, as an active member of the Waurika Church of Christ.
Kylie Waters
Kylie is an active member of Waurika High School. Kylie has been a member of the academic team, Oklahoma honor society, FFA, 4H, student council, and national honor society. She has been a strong member of many teams including cross-country, basketball, fast-pitch softball, and track. Kylie has also participated in the drama club play.
Kylie has held many leadership roles such as class officer, FFA officer, cross-country manager, school newspaper educator, and serving on the prom committee in her junior year.
Kylie has been the recipient of many awards. She has received awards for her yearbook articles, beef production, and article merit. Kylie also received an honorable mention in basketball and the letter W award in 3 sports.
Kylie dedicates her time outside of the classroom to volunteering and working in the community. Kylie has volunteered painting pens, working the Veterans Day program, the annual 5K run, back to school bash, canned food drives, hurricane Harvey relief effort, Christmas caroling, and serving Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners.
Seniors
Dalee Barrick
Dalee is a very active and dedicated member of Waurika High School. Dalee has been a member of the academic team, Oklahoma honor society, FFA, Student council, National Honor Society, cross-country, power-lifting, and track. She also performed in the drama club play.
Dalee has been a leader to her peers and held many leadership roles at WHS. She has been a student council representative, class officer, Waurika FFA Jr. Officer, National Honor Society president, beta club vice-president, FFA president, and editor of both the Eagle Yearbook and the Eagle Talk newspaper. She has also served as a member of the speech team and co-captain of the academic team.
Dalee’s list of academic and extra-curricular awards is lengthy including, but not limited to, academic awards in English 1, physical science, and algebra 1, third place creed speaking, grand champion heifer at the Waurika Livestock show, breed champion heifer at the Jefferson County Livestock Show, second in class Maintener Heifer State Fair, first place OYE Futurity Show and second place in the opening and closing ceremonies for FFA.
Dalee has also participated at the state talent competition for both Beta Club and FFA. Dalee was an honorary junior last year and will be valedictorian of her graduating class.
Dalee has been a concurrent student her senior year, taking classes at Cameron University. She recently received the Outstanding Freshman English Composition Award for Cameron University.
Dalee is very involved in Waurika Church of Christ. She attends camps and leadership conventions through her church, allowing her to be a role-model for the younger members of her church.
Karlee Bethiaume
Karlee has attended Waurika Public Schools her entire life. Karlee has been involved in Oklahoma Honor Society, Gifted and Talented, Beta Club, National Honor Society, Scholastic Meets, Newspaper, Yearbook, fast-pitch softball, and Skills USA.
Karlee has served her peers as a leader in many different organizations. She has served as a treasurer for beta club, reporter for National Honor Society, vice-president for her senior class, and editor of the yearbook. Karlee has also volunteered her time at VBS and Sunday School, assisting younger children.
Karlee has been the recipient of many awards at Waurika High School. Some of these awards include distinguished merit online news reporting, excellent sports photo, superior online news photo, academic award for English II and English III, Skills USA local, second place hair and second place make-up.
Karlee is a young adult with a very admirable work ethic. She took classes at Cameron University while being enrolled as a high school senior. She also works for the summer reading program at Waurika Public Library and at the Duncan AMC Movie theater while reaming a full time student.
Michael W. Bryant, Jr.
Michael is a very involved member of Waurika Public Schools. Michael is a member of the anaemic team, FFA, gifted and talented, jazz band, student council, National Honor Society, band, cross-country, basketball, football, and power-lifting. Michael also performed in the drama club play.
Michael is a very dedicated student. He took a concurrent college course at Cameron University during the final semester of his senior year. Michael has attended many scholastic meets participating in music, pre-calculus, algebra 2, and government competitions.
Michael has received many awards and honors in band and athletics. Some of these include being a state soloist, 5 time state qualifier in concert band, football all-district, baseball all-district, and cross-country state qualifier.
Michael dedicates his time outside the classroom to volunteer throughout our community. He has participated in the annual community wide cleanup, the o youth summer baseball program, picked up trash in and around the school, and hauled dirt to level the new church land. Michael also serves as a fill-in teacher at Sunday School and usher for his church.
Seth Cathey
Seth has been a student at Waurika Public schools all of his life. Seth has been involved in FFA, Beta Club, Student Council, National honor Society, band, cross-country, basketball, football, golf, power-lifting, and track. Seth also took concurrent classes at Cameron University during his senior year while remaining an active student.
Seth has served as role model for his younger peers. He has done this through his leadership roles as a student council representative, class officer and captain of his football, golf, and basketball teams. He has also demonstrated his leadership through the volunteer work and community service he participates in. Some of these activities include community cleanup, summer reading program, Smithsonian server, church usher, hurricane Harvey relief effort, and gathering supplies for our alumni serving in the military.
Seth has received many athletic and academic awards as a Waurika Eagle. Some of these awards include football All-District offensive receiver, 8 man All-Star linebacker, basketball Oilfield Conference 1st team, golfer of the year at Oklahoma State University golf camp, state golf regional qualifier, powerlifting state qualifier, state qualifier in 3 track events his junior year, state qualifier in 2 track events his senior year, and state champion in the 4×400 relay. Seth is also an Eagle Scholar of his senior class.
Samantha Horner
Sam is a very active student at Waurika High School. Sam has been involved in Oklahoma Honor Society, FFA, 4H, Student Council, National Honor Society, cheerleading, scholastic meets, cross-country, basketball, golf, and track. Sam is a very disciplined student. She completed 12 hours of concurrent enrollment at Cameron University during her senior year.
Sam serves as a role-model to her peers and Waurika High School. She has served as president of Beta Club and her senior class, treasurer for National Honor Society, student council representative and captain of Waurika Cheer. Through these leadership roles, Sam has fulfilled the opportunity to volunteer for her school and community. She has participated as a public library volunteer, mentor for incoming 6th grace students, mentor at middle school cheer tryouts, leader for little eagle baseball camp, and a spokesperson for our local efforts to support the hurricane Harvey relief project.
Sam has earned many awards and honors. She has received FFA awards and 4H awards such as Junior, Intermediate, and Senior Swine Showmanship. Sam was the recipient of leadership awards of the highest honors such as the Hollis Dickey Leadership Award and the HOBY Leadership Conference Ambassador honor. She has received academic awards in physical science, biology, US History, Oklahoma history, anatomy, and the OSU Academic Excellence Scholarship. Samantha has also been homecoming queen and will serve as valedictorian of her senior class.
Samantha continues to display her work ethic outside of the classroom, working hard to receive her certification of veterinary assistant. She also works for Sam’s Show Pigs which she founded to breed, raise and sell show pigs. She currently works at Chisholm Trial Animal Hospital where she is gaining knowledge that will help serve her in her future career.
Braden Woods
Braden is a very involved student at Waurika High School. Braden has been involved with the academic team, FCCLA, Gifted and Talented, Student Council, National Honor Society, band, Beta Club, and National Technical Honor Society. Braden has also performed in the Drama Club play and participated in scholastic meets.
Braden displays a strong dedication to his academics. Braden spent the summer before his senior year participating in Sooner Discover at the University of Oklahoma. This opportunity allowed him to take college courses while living on campus as a college student.
Braden has performed many leadership roles during his time as a Waurika Eagle. Braden has held office for his class for two years, served as a student council representative for two years, served as officer for FCCLA for two years, served as vice-president of the National Honor Society, Ambassador for Red River technology Center and captain of his academic team.
Braden has received a multitude of awards and honors as a high school student. some of these awards include superior rating at district band competition qualifying for state, principal’s honor roll, superintendent’s honor roll, 1st place in American history at Cameron University interscholastic meet, class academic awards for computer 2 and American history, Mr. WHS third runner-up, and runner-up at Oklahoma Beta Convention in social studies senior division.
Braden also displays a passion to work and volunteer outside of the classroom. some of this volunteer work includes Waurika Library Summer Reading Program, Relay for Life, Band Carnival, Chamber of Commerce banquet set-up, and NHS blood drive. Braden is also gaining work experience by working part-time at Small Town Creations.
QUOTE OF THE DAY – “The meaning of life is to find your gift.The purpose of life is to give it away.” Pablo Picasso.
I would like to take the time to say “Thanks” for all the prayers, cards, and phone calls while I was home after back surgery.“Thank You” to Sue McKinley for doing my office duties while I was out of the office.A special “Thanks” to Mary Alice Kunkel for teaching my GA Class on Wednesday nights at the church.GA’s your notes and drawings were so very uplifting and I really enjoyed them.While I am not 100% as of yet, I am on the road to recovery.I could not have done this without my best friend and partner in life, my husband, Valton Gambill.I want you to know how much I appreciate everything you have done for me.Thank you all – Shirley Gambill.
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH GA’s -Thanks to all who came out on Saturday and supported our Bingo and fundraising efforts.
If you missed it, you will have a second chance on Dec. 1 to play Bingo again at 3:00 p.m. Come and join us!
TERRAL SCHOOL EVENTS – Thanksgiving Break will be Nov. 19-23.School resumes on Nov. 26th. Nov. 26 we will have a game at Wichita Falls Christian at 4:00 p.m. there.
TERRAL VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT – The Terral Volunteer Fire Department is having a Toy and Food Drive for Christmas.Donation boxes are located at the Terral City Hall.The Drive will begin on November 1st through Dec. 15th.
All donations will be given to those in need in Terral at Christmastime.For more information, you may call580-437-2337.
CRAFT SHOW & BINGO – The FBC Girls in Action will be holding a Craft Show and Bingo on Saturday, December 1, 2018, at the Terral Community Center.The Craft Show will be from 9:00 to 2:00 p.m. Come on out and select some unique gifts for Christmas.Gift Wrapping will be available.Bingo will start at 3:00 p.m. Tables will reserve for $10.00 each.If you would like to reserve a table call Shirley at 437-2337 or 437i-2545 after 5:00 p.m. All proceeds go to the FBC Girls in Action for activities, crafts, and outings for the group.Hope to see ya there!
COMMUNITY PRAYER LIST – A.R. and Martha Jane Goates, Wayne Wyler, Amy Alsup, Pat Bussey, Tony Rodriguez, Carried Villarreal, Brenda Bryant, Archie Fulton, Scotty Daly, Tom Baysinger, Sue Linton, Martin Villarreal, Sr., Joe Martin, Adam White, Mary Loo Duke, Esther Grimes, Virginia Tanner, Darlene Hall, T.K. Delaney, Manuel Villarreal, Shawna Reed, Hardy Johnson, and our military stationed around the world.May God Keep you in His loving care.
