The Grove Observer

New Web Site Replaces "the blog"

2008-02-18T01:00:00.000-08:00

We've now launched a new web site replacing this blog.

Please go to:

http://www.thegroveobserver.com

This new version of The Grove Observer will be more mainstream, will offer the opportunity for you to get it emailed to you each week, make comments, send letters to the editor, purchase classified ads, banner ads, yellow page ads, and the "ad for $1 a day" reaching The World 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Many people expressed concerns that the blog was on hiatus since October. It was read even by our service people in Iraq and other countries, as a way to keep up with what is going on in Northeast Oklahoma.

We're pleased to bring it back, in the form of a true web site, not a blog. We hope you enjoy it.

Jim Mills
Editor

Grove Steps on Miami Wardogs 34-20

2007-10-19T02:05:00.000-07:00

Extends Season Record to 8-0

The Grove Ridgerunners proved that smaller and quicker can bring down a larger opponent by defeating Miami's Wardogs Thursday night 34-20, extending this season's record to 8-0 for the first time in memory.

Grove's first touchdown came only 15 seconds into the game on its first offensive play, with a 63-yard pass play from Senior quarterback Darius Hopper to wide receiver Dusty Gehrke. Gehrke broke out of the pack so quickly the nearest tackler was in Welch. The score stood at 7-0 with the clock at only 11:45.

Hopper, at 5'10", and his opposite, Wardog quarterback Grant Longcrier at 6'2", seemed to typify the difference in the two teams.

Looking across the field the Wardogs seemed to be a head taller than Miami, but Grove moved more quickly and appeared to be all over the field on defense.

Miami now goes to 5-3 on the season.

Miami's first score came at 5'59" left in the first quarter after a nine play six minute drive, with a pass to James Pickens in the corner of the end zone good for 11 yards. The point after attempt missed, making the score 7-6.

Grove's next drive took only five plays to score with a third down, 45-yard pass play from Hopper to Junior half back Michael Hudgens. The extra point was good bringing the score to 14-6 with 3'29" left in the first quarter.

Miami's next drive ended with a quarterback sack by Grove's Bobby Harris and R.J. Brantley and an incomplete pass on fourth down. Now into the second quarter, Grove took over on the 27 yard line and ran into penalty trouble, a holding call on first and 10; another holding call on third and 12; and a pass interference call on third and 25. This drive ended with a punt from Grove's 27 yard line which was fumbled and recovered by Miami's Trent Turner on the Wardogs 30.

The rest of the second quarter saw excellent play by Grove's Corey Davenport and Darius Hopper and the half ended at 14-6.

In the third quarter Miami ran into penalty troubles with a face mask call, illegal motion, delay of game call, and ended up kicking to Grove, taken out of bounds on the 23 yard line.

After mixing up a series of run and pass plays Grove moved to the Wardogs 27.
On second and one, Hopper threw a quick pass to Jesse Hale which resulted in first and goal from the one, with Hopper smashing it over the line with a quarterback sneak. The extra point was no good leaving the score 20-06 with 4 minutes left in the half.

Another Grove scoring opportunity late in the second quarter was thwarted when Hopper threw an interception to Miami's Nick Henson on the Wardogs 22 yard line. But Grove's R.J. Bartley returned the favor by intercepting a Miami pass attempt and returning it to the Wardogs eight yard line.

Hopper then ran through the middle for another six points with two seconds left. The point after was good ending the third quarter at 27-6 Grove.

The fourth quarter begin with an interception by Grove Junior Corey Davenport who returned the ball for a touchdown. Grove 34, Wardogs 6. At this point Grove was well in control of the ball game. Grove appeared to be quicker, and well coached. But Miami's Longcrier was downright scary in the dominating way he moved the ball, mowing down tacklers along the way.

Grove's kickoff was taken at the Wardogs 16 by Trent Turner and run to the 28. After a nine play drive Miami scored with a Longcrier pass bringing the score to 34-12 after a two point try failed.

Miami's last score came with only 26 seconds left in the game with a Longcrier run and a successful two point try making the score 34-20. Miami's on-side kick attempt was recovered by Grove and Miami, out of time outs, could not stop the clock.

Standout players for Grove included Hopper, Davenport, Bartley, Gehrke, and Hudgens.
Grove's next opponent is Wagner, followed by Collinsville and Idabel. Grove is ranked #2 in Class 4-A play behind Bishop McGuinness.

(our thanks to spotters Carla Mills and Bob Henkle)

FERC OK's Big Marina on Main Lake

2007-10-19T02:00:00.000-07:00

The Peninsula Resort & Club on Grand Lake announces that The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has approved the commercial marina located on the tip of the peninsula in addition to the residential boat docks in Davis Cove. The GRDA Board of Directors had previously unanimously approved the permit in the Fall of 2006 and submitted their recommendation to FERC for their approval as required under the GRDA license.

"This is a very exciting day for Grand Lake, Northeastern Oklahoma, and The Peninsula Resort & Club," said Peter C. Boylan III, Chairman. "I would like to personally thank the GRDA board of directors and staff, elected officials, state agencies, and the hundreds of citizens whom proactively voiced their support for this important permit."

"The issuance of this permit remained a critical element associated with our ambitious plans to develop a premier four star resort on Grand Lake."

Charles Banks Wilson Coming to Grove

2007-10-19T01:55:00.002-07:00

Acclaimed artist, Charles Banks Wilson, will be at Jana Jae’s Gallery Southwest at 10th and Main in Grove, OK, Saturday, November 3 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. in celebration of Oklahoma’s 100 years of history and to sign his latest book entitled, “Charles Banks Wilson,” consisting of over 175 images of the artist's finest works, including oils, watercolors, pencil drawings, and lithographs created over nearly seven decades of the artist’s life.

Artist Wilson is well known for his murals and portraits in the rotunda of the Oklahoma State Capitol. Wilson creates portraits that honor great Oklahomans, murals that pay tribute to the history of his home state, and a long running series of portraits of Native Americans, all of which assure him a place in the hearts of Americans. Charles Banks Wilson is quoted as saying, “I believe, as I look back, every drawing I made--and every painting--is a sentimental observation of people and places.” Currently, Gilcrease Museum is exhibiting Wilson’s works in a highly acclaimed and very extensive display.

Gallery Southwest is featuring artist Charles Banks Wilson through Christmas, with many works newly framed, and a nice selection of prints and lithographs ready for framing and signing. Gallery manager Betty Scott invites the public to meet Wilson, “We are pleased to have this outstanding artist visit Grove and Gallery Southwest November 3. His new book is just wonderful--very colorful, and very affordable. This is a rare opportunity to meet the artist and to have Mr. Wilson sign your own collected works as well.”

“I can’t remember ever not drawing,” Wilson said of his artistic genesis. Following his graduation from High School in Miami, Oklahoma in 1936, Wilson enrolled in the Chicago Art Institute, studied there for the next five years, and became well-known for his book covers and illustrations. He later returned to Miami where he taught Art at Northeastern Oklahoma A & M College for 15 years. By the late 1930s, fellow students spoke of the unique “Wilson Indians” and the first phase of Wilson’s career was under way.

In the early 1960s, Charles Banks accepted a commission from the Oklahoma legislature to paint murals depicting Oklahoma history and life size portraits of famous Oklahomans for the Oklahoma State Capitol. His subjects were without question the most notable and influential individuals of their time: humorist Will Rogers, Cherokee educator, Sequoyah, Senator Robert S. Kerr, athlete Jim Thorpe, and others.

Wilson’s most recent commission from the Oklahoma legislature occurred in 2001 when he was approached to paint another notable Oklahoman and was told he could choose any subject he wanted. Wilson’s subject was songwriter-activist Woody Guthrie. The portrait was unveiled at the State Capitol in 2002 and was well received. Prints of this portrait and other works are available for sale at Gallery Southwest.

The public is invited to meet and visit with Charles Banks Wilson at the book signing of his latest book, “Charles Banks Wilson,” from 1 p.m. to 4 p,m, Saturday, November 3 at Jana Jae’s Gallery Southwest, 10th and Main, in Grove, OK.

Fire Damages Grove Home

2007-10-19T01:55:00.001-07:00

The Grove Fire Department responded to a house fire Tuesday around 11 a.m. at 114 N. Hazel with one tanker truck and two engine units, and extinguished the fire, confined mostly to the living room and front porch. Cause of the fire was an electrical problem. Also responding was a unit from the Cowskin Fire Department, which automatically responds every time there is a fire in Grove. "We had plenty of water available, water was not a problem," said Chief Lee Dollarhide. A fire hydrant is located one block away on Mill Street. The home belongs to J.D. Blackmore.

Observations...

2007-10-19T01:55:00.000-07:00

According to news reports, Integris Health could soon begin construction on a new hospital on I-35 south of Edmond costing $40-$60 million with 30-60 beds, if members of Henderson Hills Baptist Church vote to sell 24 acres of church-owned land to Integris. No mention of contributions from Edmond taxpayers or local donors as a requirement for construction…Troy Helms, son of Beverly and Dave Helms, was honored with a National Boy Scout Heroism Award last week as a result of preventing two young girls from a possible drowning at a Springfield, Mo. Days Inn swimming pool in May. The two girls had drifted into water over their heads and were in trouble and Troy dragged them to shallower waters…GPS Units in Grove Police Department vehicles will be removed and disconnected by Nov. 1 as being "ineffective and unnecessary" said City Manager Bruce Johnson. This will save the city $282 a month. The system tracked each patrol car and automatically sent an email to the Police Chief anytime units were stationary for more than 30 minutes with the motor running, or exceeded 70 mph, among other things. The system was designed as a high tech way of keeping track of police vehicles when in service…"Several" resumes have been received at City Hall from attorneys applying for the job of City Attorney, a 40-hour per week full time job, says Johnson…City Council will hold a special meeting next Tuesday regarding the city's garbage collection contract…

Highway 28 Closing Next Tuesday

2007-10-19T01:54:00.000-07:00

The Grand River Dam Authority has announced that Highway 28, crossing over the middle spillways of Pensacola Dam (one eighth of a mile east of Disney) will be closed to all traffic from 9 AM to 1 PM on Tuesday, October 23.

GRDA crews will be performing some maintenance work across the spillway and both lanes of traffic will be completely closed during the four hour period. Because the maintenance includes pouring concrete, the work is subject to weather conditions.
An alternate route for westbound traffic during the closure would be to take Highway 28 east to Highway 20, then west to Highway 82, which goes back to Langley. An alternate route for eastbound traffic would be Highway 82 south from Langley to Highway 20, then east to Highway 28.

GRDA Credit Rating Upgraded to "A-"

2007-10-19T01:53:00.000-07:00

The Grand River Dam Authority, a wholesale electricity supplier for Northeast Oklahoma Electric Cooperative in the Grand Lake region, is announcing that Standard & Poor’s (S&P) Rating Services has upgraded GRDA’s credit rating. On Monday, S&P announced it was changing GRDA’s credit rating from “BBB+” to “A-”, and improving the outlook from stable to positive. While GRDA has received three rating outlook improvement from rating agencies in recent years, S&P’s announcement is historic, marking the first rating upgrade in GRDA’s history.

“Similar to the three outlook improvements we’ve received since March 2005, this upgrade is proof that the financial community believes GRDA is growing more financially stable,” said GRDA Chief Executive Officer Kevin Easley.

According to an S&P statement, “the willingness of [GRDA] board members … to strengthen the authority’s financial profile” was a chief factor in the upgrade decision. Long-term partnerships with customers was also a strong factor. The partnership between NEOEC and GRDA first began in the 1940s.

According to Easley, recent decisions by GRDA to strengthen its financial position have also helped to strengthen customer partnerships for the coming years. "This news is historic," he said. "Moving the rating from “BBB+” to “A-” adds even more stability to the financial foundation this agency will rest on in the future.”

Of course, the impact this upgrade has on all those Oklahomans will show up in savings, said Easley. “For those who may be asking ‘why does this matter to me?’ GRDA would respond that it believes this upgrade will save our customers millions of dollars in finance and insurance charges as we continue to grow and plan a safe, reliable and affordable electric future.”

According to Easley, the upgrade could not have come at a better time for GRDA, which is entering an extensive growth mode. “GRDA is a progressive agency focused on meeting our customers’ needs while always retaining our reputation as Oklahoma’s low-cost, reliable electric supplier. An excellent workforce, solid customer partnerships and recognition like this from the financial community will help us achieve those goals.”

In March 2005, Fitch Ratings reaffirmed GRDA’s “A-” rating and upgraded its outlook of the utility’s bonds from stable to positive. In March 2006, S&P cited GRDA customers’ acceptance of rate increases and GRDA’s low-cost power supply as factors in its decision to, at the time, affirm the “BBB+” credit rating and improve the outlook from negative to stable. Then, in January 2007, Moody’s Investor Services affirmed an “A2” rating on GRDA’s outstanding electric revenue bonds and announced it would also change GRDA’s rating outlook from negative to stable.

“These improvements by the rating agencies give us confidence that GRDA is on the right track with the financial decisions we’ve made,” said Easley, “and I certainly want to commend the GRDA Board of Directors, for the role it has played in this effort. The rating agencies thought that leadership was noteworthy.”

Talbot Library Offers Souvenir Pavers

2007-10-19T01:50:00.000-07:00

Colcord, Okla -- As part of the Springtown Schoolhouse renovation project in Colcord, Oklahoma, the Talbot Library and Museum is offering paving bricks available for engraving to honor family members, friends, special events, businesses, etc. The bricks can be engraved with 3 or 4 lines of text, depending on the size of letters selected. They will be displayed in the walkway connecting the Talbot Library and Museum and the historic Springtown Schoolhouse. Truly a great way to create a permanent remembrance for your loved ones.

The Schoolhouse has been designated officially as Talbot’s Historic School Restoration Project by the Oklahoma Centennial Commemoration and funded in part through a grant made possible by the Oklahoma Legislature.

The cost of each paver is $50.00 during the Oklahoma Centennial Year of 2007, $75.00 thereafter. For more information, contact Talbot Library and Museum, P.O. Box 349, Colcord,OK 74338, or call 918-326-4532. e-mail-talbotlibrary@earthlink.net

SMP Debate Could Last Another Three Years

2007-10-12T02:00:00.000-07:00

It may be three years before the Grand Lake Shoreline Management Plan issue will be settled, Rusty Fleming, founder of Grand Lakers United Enterprise (G.L.U.E.) told Grove Rotarians this week.

He also predicted Wednesday that the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) would not like the revised GRDA plan as it currently exists, and that a round of lawsuits from both sides would eventually ensue.

The GRDA Board of Directors will consider the current plan at its November meeting and then send it to FERC, where a 60-day comment period will exist.

He told Rotarians that GLUE has 220 members, with only three commercial marina owners. "The majority are waterfront and non-waterfront property owners just like you and me."

"I am a pro-GRDA guy and although they are not perfect, they are preferable to overseeing Grand Lake than FERC," he said. The 50-year-old license that GRDA had since 1940 ran out in 1990 and the 1992 re-license brought about changes, one of which is FERC insisting on a shoreline management plan.

FERC recommended the hiring of Kleinschmidt, a Maine consulting firm that also has a number of ex-FERC employees, Fleming said, to do a study begun almost two years ago. When the first draft came out "only two people" favored it, he said. Waterfront use was broken down into 17% for commercial development, 3% for GRDA operations, 52% for limited use, and 28% designated as "sensitive." It was judged far too harsh, especially relating to shoreline tree clearance.

The latest plan, re-written by GRDA with input from GLUE and hundreds of pages of testimony from area hearings, designates 71% of the waterfront as "responsible growth" area for commercial and residential development areas. There is no separate designation for residential use.

Opponents of the latest plan say it is just another invitation for the big commercial marinas to expand, and the new plan says nothing about on-water homes, or dockominiums. They say the GRDA board is loaded with conflicts of interest and has historically favored commercial installations and has been arbitrary and capricious in making dock and retaining wall decisions based on the influence of the applicant. Some predict that FERC may put a residential land use category back in the plan.

Tiger Wouldn't Have Been Welcome at Patricia Island GC

2007-10-12T01:53:00.001-07:00

Tiger Woods, who first took up the game of golf at age 3, would not have been welcome at Patricia Island Golf Club, as new signs have gone up prohibiting anyone under the age of 8 from setting foot on the golf course grounds. That includes the practice green, the sandtrap, and driving range, and of course, the 18-hole golf course.
And Tiger shouldn't bring his First Tee program to Patricia Island either, as some of the kids are under age 8.
Little Megan, shown here, has five more years before she can use her family membership.
Golf course management says the new sign and policy helps to keep insurance costs down.

11th Annual Weedin Benefit Takes New Twist

2007-10-12T01:53:00.000-07:00

For the past 10 years, the Art Weedin Benefit Auction and Golf Tournament have served
as a significant fund raiser for the newly named Grand Lake Area Chamber of
Commerce. The organization, previously named the South Grand Lake Area Chamber of
Commerce, has announced significant changes to this year’s event scheduled for October 26th at Arrowhead Yacht Club.
In the past, the event has virtually been an endurance contest featuring 18 holes of golf followed by a dinner and auction in the evening. This year’s event will feature a new and not as challenging format as the six plus hours of real golf will be replaced with Fantasy Golf. Whether you’ve ever touched a golf club or not, you’re chanced of claiming first, second or third place in this fun-filled tournament will be right up there with Tiger Woods and his professional friends.
A $250 golf team sponsorship package includes dinner for four and four Fantasy Golf
Cards. Participating in the golf portion of the event is as simple as playing the lottery.
Simply scratch off the surface on the card associated with holes one thru eighteen to
determine your score. And, just like in a real charity golf tournament, minus the cheating, mulligans will be available at $5 each. The winning teams will capture $500, $250 and $100 respectively to be used towards any silent or live benefit auction item. Bragging rights will definitely be on the line.
The dinner and auction portion of the event will feature great food and some truly unique silent and live auction items. The auction lineup is still being formulated but include a Colorado ski retreat, a week at the Quarter Deck Condos in Venice, Florida, three rounds of golf at Southern Hills Country Club, dinner for six at the home of Darrel & Sheryl Hicks, a fish fry for fifty provided by Joe Johnson, a beer and football party at Mark Oliver’s “Doghouse,” and the list is growing.
The two major $2500 Platinum Sponsors of the event are the Grand River Dam Authority
and Arrowhead Yacht Club and Marina. Other levels of sponsorship are the $750 Gold
Sponsorship, which includes your company’s name on all promotional materials, dinner
for eight with associated Fantasy Golf Cards, acknowledgement in the event program and table signage and the $500 Silver Sponsorship, which includes dinner for four and
associated Fantasy Golf Cards, acknowledgement in the program and signage at the
event.
For the past 10 years, this event has been the largest chamber fund-raising event of the year and we need your help to insure its continued success. For reservation information or to donate an item to the upcoming auction, contact the Grand Lake Chamber of Commerce at 918-782-3214.

Grove Beginnings...Part 16..More on Mayors

2007-10-12T01:50:00.003-07:00

By Rose Stauber

We have established that the first Grove mayor was James Caleb Starr, elected when the town was incorporated in 1897. The next known mayor was John H. Gibson in 1899. The county history lists the mayor in 1900 as Simps Melton. He apparently was mayor at some point and perhaps 1900 was the correct year.

First, let's get his name correct. It was Simpson Foster Melton. Sounds much better than Simps. Like his two predecessors named above, he was a Cherokee. He was born in the Cherokee Nation in 1851. His father was Samuel N. Melton, a white from Bates County, Mo., who had come to the Cherokee Nation where he married Narcissa Monroe. She had first married John M. Ward. One of the children of that marriage was George M. (Monroe) Ward. So Simpson and George M. Ward were half-brothers.

Simpson married Isabelle Graham, daughter of William and Nancy Matoy Graham formerly of Georgia. She had married Thomas Murphy who died leaving two daughters, both married. The marriage of Simpson and Isabelle resulted in five children: Narcissus, George A., Rosa B., Maud M., and Simpson Jr. The family was enrolled by the Dawes Commission.

According to a biography in Gideon's History of Indian Territory, Simpson had been prominent in agricultural circles and operated a farm west of Grove. In 1899, he sold that property and moved to Grove while retaining 600 acres of good land south of Vinita. Simpson reportedly did not take part in business in Grove, but supported improvements for the town. He fitted right into Grove; he was a Democrat and his wife a Methodist.

The family seems to have gone West in later years. According to David Hampton's Cherokee Mixed-Bloods, Isabelle died in Denver and is buried at Vinita, and Simpson died at Boise, Idaho, at age 79.

The next identified mayor was William A. Walton who is said to have served in 1902-1903. Not much is known about Walton but he apparently was prominent in public affairs. He served as chair of the school board in 1906. In the sale of town lots, Walton had lots 3 and 4 in Block 19 which was on the north side of Third Street. The frame house on one lot was valued at $500 and two barns on the other lot were valued at $100.

The 1910 census shows a William A. Walton, age 76, widowed, with a nephew and a daughter-in-law and four grandsons. The adults were born in Virginia and West Virginia.

James P.Butler, is said to have served as mayor in 1903-1904. A classmate and friend of John H. Gibson at the Cherokee Male Seminary, Butler was active in affairs in Grove. He had lots 1, 2, and 3, in Block 31 on the corner of Cherokee and 4th Streets. A barn and a large frame house worth $800 occupied the lots. The county history gives Butler's middle name as Proctor; in other places the middle initial is "E".

Butler's obituary in the Grove Sun of Feb. 8, 1945, offers the most information found on this man. His parents were Rev. Elisha Butler and Dorcas Landrum. He had three brothers and five sisters, one of whom, Elizabeth, married James Crittenden, subject of a previous column. James married Nancy Muskrat. One son, James, survived of this marriage. Butler was survived by his second wife, Laura Inlow Paden.

In his early life he had served as a Cherokee Nation policeman. Later he was elected to serve two terms as representative from Delaware County to the Oklahoma Legislature. In early Grove, Butler was one of those who worked to build the Methodist Church in 1899 and 1900.

He had joined the Methodist Church as a young man. Later he become so interested in religion that he began preaching and continued as a minister until his death. The family home of the Butlers is on Honey Creek. Today the Butler Cemetery is the resting place for many including the Butlers.

W.H. Morgan was listed as mayor when the Grove Sun of April 14, 1905, gave the list of new city officials. The Grove Sun of April 20, 1906, announced that a new council was sworn in by the retiring mayor, W.H. Morgan. The paper explained that due to installing a new steam press the Sun was unable to get full particulars.

William Thomas took office as mayor April 20, 1906. Thomas and his family had come to Grove since the 1900 census when they were in Arkansas. Thomas was born in Kentucky in 1841, the son of Isaac and Elizabeth Thomas. He and his wife Susan had been married about 40 years and raised a family of nine children. On an 1885 census of Colorado, the family is found in Weld County.

Public service was something Thomas seemed to like. He had been elected to two terms as county judge in Kentucky and was elected and served as sheriff for a term. Thomas bought Lot 4 in Block 35, the lot on the west side of the Christian Church. It had a frame house valued at $145. The Thomases, husband and wife, died within four days of each other in late January, early February, 1919 and are buried in Olympus Cemetery. William's obituary says he had 40 grandchildren and 25 great grandchildren.

Tom Witty, who grew up on Cowskin Prairie and spent his working years away from Grove, retired here some years ago. He is a grandson of the Thomases.

In May 1907, John H. Gibson again became mayor and served for the beginning of statehood. The council was concerned enough to inquire how statehood might affect the incorporated towns. They were told just to continue the march. Nothing changed their governments or ordinances.

© 2007 Rose Stauber

Coats for Kids Program Launched

2007-10-12T01:50:00.002-07:00

The First National Bank of Grove has launched its annual Coats for Kids program and is now accepting clean, good condition coats for children of all ages.
Drop off is at the bank, 600 S. Main. Deadline is Oct. 31.

Outdoor Adventurer To Speak at Third Thursday Event

2007-10-12T01:50:00.001-07:00

Gary Courtney, native Oklahoma author, photographer, and historian, will be the speaker at the Grove Public Library's Third Thursday on Oct. 18, at 12 noon. His talk will be followed by a book signing. The public is invited, and brown bag lunches are in order.

Courtney will talk on the famous or infamous Cookson Hills of eastern Oklahoma and the outlaws and people of the area. For most of the last ten years, Gary Courtney has lived on a mountain top overlooking Lake Tenkiller, in the heart of the Cookson Hills, where he roamed as a boy and young man, fishing, hunting, camping, cave exploring, and Scuba diving. He moved there to observe, interview, research, explore, photograph, and to write about the area history and pioneers.

One result of his work is the book, "The Historic Cookson Hills Dictionary – Old Time & Slang Words & Phases." Courtney's latest book will be out in about a month. It is "Carl Janaway – Smartest Bandit of the Cookson Hills." The author is working on a book in progress for ten years, "Cookson Hills Chronicles."

The Cookson Hills Dictionary contains a history of the area with color photographs, tourist information and information on the notorious cave hideouts of outlaws on the run.

Courtney is noted for his outdoor attire which includes an old felt hat, blue jeans, and flannel shirt, topped by a big Bowie knife. His cameras are always nearby.

Beginning over seven years ago, he previewed chapters of his books to the public on his online magazine and as front page feature stories in the "Oklahoma Legend" weekly in Tahlequah. His two month-long museum exhibits at Northeastern State University featured the history of the area.

Courtney has a tie to Grove and the northeast Oklahoma area. His grandfather, James Grover Cleveland Tillman, was born in this area in 1891. Courtney now lives in Broken Arrow and Colorado.

Third Thursday is a program about books and authors sponsored by the Friends of the Grove Public Library and the library.

Drinks and dessert are provided.

Pelican Power Fun Run Set Nov. 10

2007-10-12T01:50:00.000-07:00

The first annual “Pelican Power” 5K and Fun Run has been scheduled for Saturday, November 10 at 9 am at Patricia Island Estates and Golf Club in Grove.
A partnership of the Cherokee Nation Wings Program and the Grand Lake Family YMCA, the Pelican Power run is USATF Certified and Sanctioned.
The first 240 registered participants will receive a t-shirt, fruit and water. Awards will go to the top overall male and female winner, and to the top three males and females in each standard age group.
Pre-registration is $10. Race day registration begins at 8 am for $15.
Sponsors include Arvest Bank of Grove; Curtiss Tate's Tire & Service; Drake's Restaurant; Joan Vermaire, ReMax Grand Lake; Lakehaven Dental; Lowe's Home Improvement Center; Lupe's Mexican Restaurant; and Sanco Lumber Inc.
The Cherokee Nation Wings Program is a volunteer-based organization of the Cherokee Nation that helps communities organize events to promote healthy lifestyles.
For more information and registration forms, contact Ida Sue Gray at (918) 253-4271 ext. 288.
(Editors Note: No one under the age of 8 permitted (see related story)

Genealogical Society Meeting is Tuesday

2007-10-12T01:00:00.001-07:00

The monthly meeting of the Delaware County Genealogical Society will be held on Tuesday, October 16, 2007, at 7 pm at the Grove Public Library. Harley Buzzard, of Jay, will speak on Cherokee History. Mr. Buzzard is newly elected to the Tribal Council of the Cherokee Nation, representing Delaware County . He will bring us up to date on the Cherokee Nation and the current status with the Freemen issue and several bills in Congress to withhold funds from the Cherokee Nation.

Refreshments will be served. The meetings are open to the public and anyone who is interested in their family history.

Bowling Fundraiser set for EquiSpirit.

2007-10-12T01:00:00.000-07:00

EquiSpirit Theraupeutic Riding Acadeny Announces The First Annual Bowling Tournament set for Sunday, October 21 3 to 7 p.m. at Country Lanes, 28300 South 620 Road
North Cherokee Street in Grove.

Individual Bowlers: $25 Adult
$15 Age 17 and Younger

Five Bowlers per Team

PRIZES:
Highest Score Per Team
Highest Score Adult Bowler
Highest Score Age 17 and Younger

Staff Attorney Sought by Council

2007-10-05T02:00:00.000-07:00

Unable to agree on the selection of a City Attorney, Grove City Councilors have approved a motion to seek a full-time attorney to work on staff at City Hall, 40 hours a week. Action came at Tuesday night's regular Council meeting following a one hour executive session. The vote was 4-0 with councilor Gary Trippensee absent.

Grove has been without a City Attorney since Aug. 21, when Ron Cates resigned after learning the city was to issue Request for Proposals to law firms. Cates said he did not know that he was being replaced until the council Agenda came out a few days prior to the meeting.

Five law firms responded to the RFP and it is believed Council narrowed down the list to two firms, Logan and Lowry of Grove, and the Hartley Law firm of Vinita. Council voted 3-2 to reject Hartley at the Sept. 18 open council meeting.

Councilor Mike Davenport made the motion Tuesday night to hire a full time attorney on staff. Wednesday, he said there are several advantages.

"It makes more sense, in that any trust authority board member who needs a legal opinion on an issue can ask the attorney directly. We have plenty of work to keep him busy…the city ordinances need updating, and he can help with planning and zoning issues. We will be dealing with one single attorney, not a firm that could send a different lawyer to our council meetings every two weeks. The attorney will be guaranteed a salary and benefits and not have to worry about ups and downs in income. I think we will get some good applicants but in the event this does not work out we can always go back to the proposals already received. Let's give this a chance," he said.

Davenport also noted that he visited in person with Jot Hartley and came away impressed with his background.

Councilman Terry Ryan said he supported Davenport's motion and hoped the city would get a number of good applicants.

There are 457 towns and cities that are members of the Oklahoma Municipal League and it is known that two, Oklahoma City and Tulsa, have full time attorneys on staff, both in the six figure salary bracket. Attorneys for most small cities are employed on the basis of need, paying only for services rendered on an hourly or monthly retainer basis.

Previous Grove city attorneys were hired by the City Manager, following a state statute, Title 11 Section 10-119, which requires cities to have a "department of law headed by a city attorney," and Title 11 Section 10-113 and Grove City Ordinance 2-302 "the city manager shall appoint…all heads of administrative departments…except as otherwise provided by law."

However, City Ordinance 2-501 states that the city attorney shall be "appointed by the city council for a one-year term and removable by the council."

Title 11 Section 14-101 then follows up by stating "the municipal governing body may enact ordinances, rules and regulations not inconsistent with the Constitution and laws of Oklahoma…"

One could argue that the "not inconsistent" phrase takes the hiring matter away from City Council and awards it to the City Manager. In fact, three previous city attorneys have stated that the City Attorney position reports directly to the City Manager, not Council.

Currently, only the City Manager and City Treasurer report directly to the Grove City Council, per state statute.

Mayor Appoints Two to P&Z Board

2007-10-05T01:55:00.000-07:00

Larry Sadler and Rollie Cornelson of Grove were appointed to the Grove Planning and Zoning Board by Mayor Gary Bishop at Tuesday night's regular Council meeting.
Sadler previously served six years on the P&Z board and served on the Grove City Council until the 2004 election, when he was defeated by Dave Helms.

Cornelson has lived in Grove nine years and has been involved in the construction of four homes. Before retirement he worked for the Beech Aircraft Corporation and has a multi-engine instrument rating from the FAA.

Other applicants included Jason Pickett and Jim Simmons.

The appointments fill vacancies created by the resignation of Norma Halterman and the retirement of Bettie Kardos-Bishop.

Councilman Terry Ryan noted that several new people have come forward to make applications and he would like to see that trend in appointments continued in the future. "We need new blood in city government," he said, but then voted for Sadler. Mayor Bishop said "your comments have been duly noted."

Council Honors Former Mayor, Discusses SMP Plan

2007-10-05T01:54:00.001-07:00

Former Mayor Carolyn Nuckolls was honored with an appreciation plaque at Tuesday night's council meeting, presented by Mayor Gary Bishop. Nuckolls was cited for her 18 years of service to the city as Mayor, and service on the City Council, GIDA, and GMSA boards.

Council also approved a resolution requesting GRDA classify all water front adjacent to the city limits as a "responsible growth" area in the final version of the Shoreline Management Plan being developed for GRDA Board and FERC approvals.

Council also approved the low bid of $32,315 to Traffic & Lighting Systems LLC for purchase of a traffic light sensor system at Third & Main, which had been budgeted at $30,000.

Honored as Employee of the Month was Steve Brewer who has worked for the city for 21 years and currently serves as the Utility Line Locator for GMSA.

Vintage Car Rally Comes to Grove

2007-10-05T01:53:00.001-07:00

This weekend the Vintage Car Rally Association is holding its regional time, speed and distance rally around the Grand Lake region. They will be beginning from the Stonebrook Inn, Hwy 59 North in Grove on Friday at 12:30 pm for their first TSD, at 7:30 am Saturday and at 7:30 am Sunday. In order to qualify, the vehicles must be 1948 and earlier vintage.

This rally is a fund raiser for Autism research, drivers have a chance to win $10,000 in prize money. On Saturday they will all be assembled at the Route 66 Packard Museum located in Afton for dinner. If you would like additional information you can contact Rex Gardner at 918-786-1950 or call the Grand Lake Association at 918-786-2289.

Rotary District Governor Here Oct. 17

2007-10-05T01:53:00.000-07:00

Dr. Ellis Potter, District Governor of Rotary District 6110, will be speaking at the Grove Rotary meeting on Oct. 17 at Noon at the Cowskin Prairie restaurant.

Dr. Potter was born and raised in Chanute, KS and after graduation from Kansas University and Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, TN, Dr. Potter served as base optometrist for Kincheloe AFB, Michigan. He practiced in Salina, KS and Denver, CO before returning to South East Kansas to establish a multidiscipline practice that now includes three optometrists and two ophthalmologists. Dr. Potter has been involved on many Optometry Boards and committees. He is a Diplomate of the American Academy of Optometry and Diplomate Chairman for the Primary Care Section. He serves on the educational committee of the Heart of American Contact Lens and Primary Care Society. He has authored over 80 Optometric articles and served his state association as editor of the Kansas Optometric Journal. In 2006 he was named by the Kansas Optometric Association as Optometrist of the Year.
Dr. and Mrs. Potter have participated in five international eye care missions. Inspired by hosting a Rotary Group Study Exchange from Chile in 1989, they received a RI Discover Grant to travel to Chile to determine the feasibility of an eye care mission to that country. In coordination with VOSH (Volunteer Optometrists for Service to Humanity) they subsequently have organized and led three teams of eye doctors and Rotarians to Osorno, Ancud and Coyhaique, Chile, South America. Dr. Potter is a Fellow of VOSH International.
He has served in most positions in the Iola Rotary club as well as four terms as Assistant Governor. His father was president of the Chanute, Kansas Rotary club. The Potter’s son and daughter both participated in Rotary Youth Exchanges. Dr. Potter and his wife have been involved in 9 Group Study or Youth Exchanges and he has received the RI District Service Award, the RI Four Avenues Service Citation, several citations from the Ancud and District 4350 Rotarians and the Iola Service Above Self Award. He is a member of the Rotary International action group for Avoidable Blindness. Both he and his wife, Jane are Paul Harris Fellows
He and his wife, Jane a nurse, have two children: Jim, a Real Estate Development Consultant and developer in Kansas City, MO and Julie Mercer, a bank Human Resource Officer in Glen Ellyn, ILL. They have two grandsons, Kale Evan Mercer and Hayden James Potter.

Nautical Flea Market Set This Weekend

2007-10-05T01:50:00.000-07:00

The Nautical Flea Market is coming to Grand Lake again this weekend. The Grand Lake Sail & Power Squadron is sponsoring the event near Grove, at Bears Den Resort, just north of Sailboat Bridge. For the second year, an impressive array of vendors has signed up to offer boats, nautical items, clothing and marine related services at some great prices to the people of Grand Lake.

Several marinas will be participating including South Winds Marina with boats and merchandise from their Ship¢s Store, Redbud Marina which is a good place to look for sailboats and sailing instruction, and Dripping Springs Yacht Club which, among other things, will be promoting the businesses in the Dripping Springs area. Arrowhead Marina will have boats to sell and offers consignment services to others wishing to sell their boats. Harbors View Marina will be offering items from the Ships Store, Marine Max will have Sea Ray boats available, and Personal Vendors will be offering boats and handmade nautical items.

Marine services can be found at the vendors from Rebel Marine who will have nautical items, boat parts, and boat repair & maintenance services, and also from North Lake Mobil Marine which offers mobile repair services and has a shop near the Hwy 10 Cowskin Bridge. Jerry's Dock Construction will be talking to people about dock manufacturing and repair, and also about their rubbish disposal service. Boat Floater of Oklahoma will have dock related items for sale, and boat lifts at winter prices.

There will be lots of nautical items, clothing and knick-knacks offered by vendors such as Naut-A-Woody who will have nautical items, glassware and paintings. Magnolias will be offering water sports apparel, flags and other related items, and Grand Lake Sports Center will have water sports items and summer apparel at end of summer prices. The Boater¢s World booth will have their excess inventory of marine clothing, shoes, and equipment at bargain prices, as will Grand Outdoors with water sports equipment and new & used jet skis.

You can expect to find unique fishing equipment at the booth of Be Ready Rod Holders, and when you get hungry, stop by the Knock Out BBQ booth where you'll find scrumptious barbeque and burgers, etc; and breakfast on Saturday.

The Grand Lake Sail & Power Squadron booth will be offering items donated by its members and some very generous businesses such as: Indian Hills Resort, Lees Resort, Monkey Island Marine Electronics, and Barkers Edgewater Marine. Kings Marine has made a financial contribution to this effort which helps the Power Squadron continue to provide free boating safety classes to the Public.

The 2nd Annual Nautical Flea Market will be open from 3 PM to 7 PM on Friday, Oct. 5, and from 8 AM to 5 PM on Saturday, Oct. 6, 2007. Bears Den Resort is on Hwy 59 one-half mile north of Sailboat Bridge. For additional information about the Nautical Flea Market, call 918-786-4488. The Grand Lake Sail & Power Squadron can be found online at: www.usps.org/lc/grandlake.

Hiring of City Attorney on Council Agenda

2007-09-28T02:15:00.000-07:00

The matter of hiring a city attorney for the city of Grove will be re-visited Tuesday night at the regular Council meeting. Two weeks ago Council met in executive session to discuss five candidates, with one being nominated in public session, Jot Hartley of Vinita. The vote was 3-2 against hiring him and no other candidates were nominated.
At least two councilmen indicated they wanted to interview Hartley in person before reconsidering the matter.
An executive session items is on the agenda, as well as appointments of two trustees to the Grove Planning and Zoning Board. Council will also discuss a request to GRDA to designate all shoreline within the Grove City Limits as a Responsible Growth Area under the new Shoreline Management Plan under final consideration by GRDA.
Council will meet at 6 p.m. at City Hall.

County Commissioners Face Full Agenda

2007-09-28T02:00:00.000-07:00

Delaware County Commissioners, now back to full strength after several months, face a full Agenda for Monday's regular meeting, including a motion to hire the Center for Economic Development Law" to establish a TIF (tax increment financing) district for the benefit of The Peninsula development on Monkey Island.
This item had previously been "no actioned" several weeks ago on the advice of the Assistant District Attorney, who said the commissioners must first establish a review committee per state law.
In this month's Chairman's Letter to Shangri-La members, Peter Boylan says "we are currently working with the Delaware County Commissioners who have expressed an interest in forming a TIF district and passing a lodging tax to facilitate the redevelopment for the benefit of the county and community. The approvals of these incentives remains vital for the redevelopment."
Other action includes a possible Executive Session to discuss the Paul Staten and Island Enterprises lawsuit against Delaware County, and the Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission versus the Board of County Commissioners of Delaware County.
Motions to approve platting of several new subdivisions will be heard, including Mariner's Lookout, and Governors Retreat Phase III.

Grove Beginnings...Part 15

2007-09-28T01:55:00.000-07:00

By Rose Stauber

Remember that Sept. 17 was the big day that voters in Oklahoma Territory and Indian Territory voted on big issues: for or against the constitution which meant for or against becoming a state; for or against liquor; and election of officials at all levels of the new state, if it became a state, from governor to township justice of the peace.
Obviously, politicking was going on all over the state. William Jennings Bryan, speaking in Oklahoma City, was quoted in the Grove Sun as saying, "I have read your constitution carefully," he said, "and I want to say that you have the best constitution of any state of the Union, and better than the constitution of the United States." He didn't mention that the constitution supported segregation.
President Theodore Roosevelt, a Republican, was having trouble with the Oklahoma constitution. What is more, the Democratic nominee for governor, C.N. Haskell, and the President seem to have had differences, to put it mildly.
The Democratic and Republican parties in what would be Delaware County were carrying on in the usual way: party meetings, speaking tours around the county and all the things that go on. The tickets, printed in the Grove Sun had different symbols than today. The Democratic ballot was headed by a crowing cock and the Republican one by a large bird, probably meant to be an eagle, with wings spread and a striped shield in its claws.
Locally, the only campaign smear that made the newspaper involved the candidacy of Cherokee Steve Peak for county school superintendent. The Grove Sun of Sept. 6, 1907, carried the following under the headline, "Another Campaign Lie Nailed." The story was from Southwest City, Mo., Sept. 2, 1907. "We, the undersigned are citizens of Southwest City, Mo., and know Steve Peak, and know him to be a sober and law-abiding citizen. Understanding that there is a report being circulated to the effect that Steve Peak came to our town and got intoxicated, we feel it our duty to say to the people of Delaware county that we have never at any time seen Mr. Peak under the influence of whisky, nor was he ever arrested in our town." The item was signed by the mayor, the JP, the city marshal, Nichols Bros., J.C. Yeargain Jr, D.E. Havens, Thos. Holt, C. M. Dunlap, and J. I. McNabney. The notice was very nice of the Southwest City officials. Of course, everyone knew that Southwest City had a distillery and that the town was a main source of liquor.

Steve Peak won the job of county schools superintendent. Before and after his election, he seems to have been a popular teacher around the county.
The October 4, 1907, Grove Sun carried preliminary results. The official results were the same and carried in the October 11 issue. A recent centennial article in the Tulsa World carried the headline: "In 1907 vote, state came in as liquor went out". The other no news was that the Democrats won most offices in a landslide.
In what was to become Delaware County, 1,200 voted for the constitution, 398 against. In the liquor vote, 858 voted for prohibition and 624 against.
The list of county officers began with George W. Hogan elected sheriff over Jeff Muskrat. W. N. Smith was unopposed as county judge. Ad. V.Coppedge got 1,015 Democratic votes to win the county attorney job. Geo. A Cox, Democrat, won as clerk of the district court. Ed West, Democrat, with 972 votes became county clerk over Jeff D. Sexton. T.J. Williams, Democrat, beat Dan Taunneacie by 982 to 569 for treasurer. For recorder, G.W. Fields, Jr., Democrat, won 1,600 to 551 over W. Fox.
Steve Peak's margin over his opponent, J.P. Butler, was 961 to 554.
The county commissioners, all Democrats, were T.T. Rogers, District 1; Tal Gray, District 2, and Dee Jones, District 3. Two Republicans won minor offices in the election of officials in the six townships.
In the state offices, L.B. Smith, Democrat, was not opposed and would become the first Delaware County representative in the Oklahoma Legislature. E.M. Landrum, also a Democrat, was elected state senator.
One of the new U.S. senators from Oklahoma was Robert L. Owen. The new senator was a Cherokee, and on the Dawes Roll. His mother began life in what became Delaware County. She was born Narcissa Chisholm, daughter of Thomas Chisholm, who was one of the three chiefs of the Old Settler Cherokees at the time they were moved out of Arkansas to Indian Territory. Chisholm picked an area directly west of Maysville for his home. He died in 1834 and is buried in a cemetery there. This is the oldest marked grave known in Delaware County. Narcissa wrote her memoirs which have recently been republished. Plenty of material is available on Robert Owen.

After the election, President Roosevelt announced that he would sign the Oklahoma Constitution. His personal opinion of the document, the president laughingly said, was "not fit for publication." All obstacles were now removed to Oklahoma statehood.
© 2007 Rose Stauber

GRDA to Hold Final SMP Meetings

2007-09-28T01:54:00.000-07:00

The Grand River Dam Authority reminds lake area residents of the upcoming public meetings, related to the final draft of the Grand Lake Shoreline Management Plan (SMP).
These meetings are GRDA’s opportunity to present the final SMP draft plan to the public and will include a question and answer session after the GRDA presentation. The first meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, October 2, at 6 PM at the Cleora School. Another meeting will be held Thursday, October 4, at 6 PM at the Grove Community Center
The GRDA Board of Directors received the final draft from GRDA staff at its September 12 meeting in Vinita. The 30 day public comment period on the draft began at that time. After the close of that comment period (which runs through October 15) and the two public meetings, the board will vote on the final plan in November.
GRDA has made copies of the final draft available to the public and those interested in seeing the draft can obtain a copy at GRDA’s Vinita headquarters, or it may be viewed online at www.grda.com. Anyone interested in commenting on the final draft can send an email to smp@grda.com or other written comments can be addressed to SMP PO Box 409, Vinita, OK 74301.
GRDA began developing the SMP at the request of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), the agency which licenses GRDA to manage the Pensacola Dam and Grand Lake. The plan will determine future development activity to be allowed along Grand Lake’s 1,300 miles of shoreline.

Jana Jae Featured at Epcot Center

2007-09-28T01:53:00.000-07:00

EPCOT Center at World Disney World will present an exhibition of Oklahoma History and Heritage thkrough Nov. 11, including an opening by Jana Jae and her band, Hotwire.
The 100 year history of Oklahoma will be showcased on three "walls of wonder" 12 feet high and 21 feet long, telling the stories of personalities that helped shape the state's history.

Rotarians from Brazil Visit Grove

2007-09-28T01:15:00.000-07:00

Five Rotarians from Brazil visited Grove this week. Shown are Davi De Paula, a pediatrics and neonatology physician; Marcello Rodrigues de Oliveira, an information technology manager at a refinery in Canoas; Irina de Oliveira, an architect and urban designer; Patricia Barbosa, an English teacher; and Jorge Da Silva Duarte, accountant at a construction company. Housed in private homes in Grove, the group visited Lendonwood Gardens, Har-Ber Village Museum, Pensacola Dam, NEO and the mushroom farm in Miami, and saw "Oklahoma" at the Coleman Theatre. Prior to coming to Grove on their 40-day American visit, they spent time in Bentonville, Fayetteville, Eureka Springs, Lamar, Mo., Iola, Kan., Bartlesville, and continue next week to Muskogee and home to Brazil.
There are more than 50,000 Rotarians in Brazil.

Council Divided on City Attorney Hiring

2007-09-21T02:00:00.000-07:00

Grove is still without the services of a City Attorney, at least for the next two weeks. A motion to hire Jot Hartley of the Hartley Law Firm of Vinita was rejected 3-2 at Tuesday's Council meeting and apparently the matter is dead until the next council meeting Oct. 2.

Council went into Executive Session at 6:31 and returned an hour later, then heard the motion by Terry Ryan to appoint Hartley as city attorney. Ryan and Mayor Gary Bishop both voted in favor of Hartley, while Councilmen Mike Davenport, Larry Parham and Gary Tripenssee voted nay.

City Manager Bruce Johnson had devised a formula and point scoring system to judge the city attorney candidates, included in the Request for Proposals to candidates. One source said that Hartley clearly was the winner using the point system, taking emotion completely out of the equation.

Hartley has more than 25 years of Municipal Law experience and currently serves as city attorney for Vinita, Ketchum, Bernice and West Siloam Springs. He received his law degree from OU in 1977. His proposal includes billing at special municipal rates at $130 an hour for Jot Hartley, and $125 an hour for associates. His firm drafted City ordinances for Ketchum and Bernice. The firm has previously reviewed Grove's Municipal ordinances relating to land use and zoning and if selected, would "conduct an immediate and total review of your ordinances," their proposal states.

Logan and Lowry, represented by David E. Jones, is believed to be high on the list of candidates, but does not list any municipal law experience on its resume. Jones received his law degree in 1990 from the University of Kansas. His proposal includes a monthly retainer charge of $1,750 for review of agendas, attendance at regular and special meetings of the City and GMSA. Other work would be billed at an hourly rate of $195 an hour for partners and $150 and hour for associates. His list of clients includes Precision Communications, headed by Troy Kyman, who is chairman of GrovePAC, the political action committee that backed councilmen Parham, Davenport, and Trippensee in April's election.

The formula devised by Johnson is as follows:

--35 points for experience and knowledge of Oklahoma state statutes and Grove Code of Ordinances
--10 points for monthly retainer and hourly rate
--25 points for professional qualifications and communication skills including total years of experience, honors or awards.
--35 points on past performance record.
(total 105 points available)

The previous city attorney, Ron Cates, billed at an hourly rate of $125 plus travel time and mileage from Owasso. Last year's legal services for the city totaled $57,042 including the trust authorities and defending the city against lawsuits.

(Editors Note: Since Tuesday night's vote at least two councilmen have expressed a desire to personally interview the top two candidates before voting again on the matter. What then, was the rush to bring this agenda item up before taking the opportunity to personally interview the candidates? One would think a personal interview would be mandatory before the decision to hire is made).

Editorial...Yes, Yes, and No on New Hospital

2007-09-21T01:56:00.000-07:00

The Observer has been accused of being opposed to a new $58 million hospital in Grove. Nothing could be further from the truth so let's say that up front.

We say Yes to a new hospital. It would be a tremendous new asset to the city and area and would bring additional business to Grove, increased staff of physicians, nurses and other employees, and as designed by HKS Architects, would be the most beautiful building in our city.

We also say Yes to the volunteer fundraising effort being undertaken by the Hospital. One individual has pledged $1 million to the effort and his generosity is noteworthy to say the least. We hope many others who have the means will step forward as well. A total of $5 million has been requested by Integris as a sign of "community support."

But we say No to the request for $1 million from the city coffers, payable at $200,000 over five years. This money will come from the City Capital Fund budget, this year at $4.3 million. A $200,000 per year donation will come to nearly 5% of the city's total Capital budget, or $200.00 a year for every man, woman and child in Grove.

In fact, the $200,000 is nearly the largest item in this year's budget, exceeded only by $250,000 allocated to fix the leaking Civic Center roof, which probably isn't enough; $246,000 to complete the downtown storm drainage project, and $280,000 for the new cemetery project.

We have $25,000 budgeted for pothole repairs and $50,000 for asphalt overlay.

At $50,000 per mile for a complete asphalt overlay program, we could pave four miles with just one year's donation to the hospital. Our streets are grinding up tires, wearing out brakes and suspension systems. Bumpety Bumpety.

If put to a vote of the people, (not likely), the issue of a $200,000 per year donation would fail by a wide margin, according to our research. And we don't oppose "in kind" donations by the city, but none have been discussed. These include free tap fees, utility construction costs, land swaps, give backs, etc.

Frankly, we don't know how this suggestion came up in the first place. It appears to have come upon us like a stealthy fog bank.

In the end, our city council will make the decision and that is why they get elected. If the city residents don't like their decision they can vote them out at the next election.

We hope this clears up our feelings on the matter and at least you know. Other media in the area are silent, and are not likely to speak up.

Upgraded Honey Creek Pump Station Approved

2007-09-21T01:55:00.001-07:00

Members of the Grove Municipal Services Authority board have approved spending $9,500 to Rose & McCreary for civil engineering services to upgrade the Honey Creek booster pump station. An estimated 200 new homes could be added south of Honey Creek as a result, engineers estimated. Total cost is estimated at $75,000 to $100,000 for the pump and new larger water line.

The board was told Tuesday at its regular meeting that work on utility re-locations along Highway 59 is virtually complete, and Nov. 15 has been set as the final completion date. ODOT says it will let bids in January, begin highway construction in April, and be finished 18 months later.

GMSA also approved a new policy on customer disputes of water or gas bills. The new process involves 10 steps and was put together by City Manager Bruce Johnson. These include:

1. Customer shall notify the GMSA office manager of a problem within 10 working days of the due date printed on the disputed bill.
2. Office manager will review and correct any billing error immediately.
3. If a meter re-read is necessary, it shall be done within 24 hours of the notice.
4. If the re-read shows an error was made or the meter was not working properly, the reading and/or meter will be changed and the bill will be adjusted accordingly.
5. If the re-read shows the reading was correct and meter is working properly, no adjustment will be made.
6. The customer may request a company specializing in such testing to check the meter for accuracy. If testing shows the meter is working correctly, the customer will pay for the testing; if not, GMSA will pay the cost of testing.
7. After researching the disputed bill the Office Manager will make a decision within five working days after receipt of the complaint. If customer is not satisfied the customer has the right to request a meeting with the General Manager within five working days to dispute the bill.
8. After reviewing the bill, the General Manager will make a decision within five working days.
9. If the customer is not satisfied with the General Manager's decision, a written request may be submitted to have the matter presented to the GMSA Board of Trustees for the next regular meeting. The written request must be made within 10 working days of the General Manager's decision or his decision will be final.
10 GMSA will review the request and the board's decision is final.

The new policy grew out of a complaint filed by a homeowner who received a natural gas bill for $2400 last winter.

Council Makes Trustee Appointments

2007-09-21T01:55:00.000-07:00

Grove City Councilmen have made three appointments to the Grove Industrial Development Authority board, one to GMSA, and deferred appointments to the Planning & Zoning Board because there were no applicants. Action came at Tuesday night's regular Council meeting.

Appointed to GIDA were Bob Henkle, Ed Hamilton, and Tom Ryan, although Ryan's appointment drew opposition from Larry Parham and Mike Davenport. Appointed to GMSA was Berwin Kock, who had previously applied to the airport trust authority board position which was filled by Tom Melton.

The city will re-advertise the two open positions on the Planning & Zoning board with a cutoff date of Sept. 27. Chairman Bettie Kardos-Bishop has retired and Norma Halterman resigned in August. If member Bill Miller does not return from an extended trip there will not be a quorum for the October meeting.

In other council action:

--a request for the Harvest Moon Cruise Night promotion was made and approved, for Oct. 12-13.
--Larry Parham was appointed as the council liaison to the Grove Airport Authority and he resigned as the liaison to the Grove Chamber of Commerce.
--authorization was given to sign a letter of intent for FAA grant funds and approval given for a fee of $67,000 for engineering work to Garver Engineers for completion of the Property Map and updating the airport layout drawing; completion of the Action Plan as required by the FAA, and engineering work on runway 18/36 for new seal coat and repairs and repairs to the aircraft parking apron. The money will be reimbursed by the FAA.

Grove Beginnings...Part 14

2007-09-21T01:53:00.000-07:00

Crittenden Grave

By Rose Stauber

Some things catch your attention and make you want to know the answers. Such a situation is a lone grave in downtown Grove. It took us several years just to get into the overgrown lot where the grave is located. When I finally was taken to the gravestone, it was lying on the ground, but still in great condition.

The engraving on the stone reads: Electa Crittenden Born Dec. 25, 1835 Died Jan. 20, 1879. A verse follows:

"Her gentle ways will ever dwell in hearts of those who knew and loved her well."

For the record, Electa's son James gave his mother's date of death as Feb. 28, 1878, on his Guion Miller application.

Electa died at age 43 or 44, and those years were surely filled with troubles and sorrow known by all Cherokees during that period. I haven't tried to prove it, but she probably came over the Trail of Tears as a young child. She lived in Goingsnake District, probably in the part of that district which is now Adair County. Her maiden name was Hopkins. She married Henry Crittenden and had children. Henry died, likely killed, in 1865 in the violence of the Civil War.

Two sons, James F. and Charles W., and two daughters, Elizabeth and Jennie, would have been quite young when their father died. James gave his date and place of birth as Carey's Ferry, Nov. 15, 1863. The bereft family must have lived in what is now Grove when Electa died in 1879. The custom of the time would be for her to be buried near the home. Who caused the gravestone to be made and placed and when is not known. Did the two sons, barely out of their teens, if both were, have the marker placed? We cannot know.

We do know that the sons left the Cherokee Nation for a period, possibly going to Texas.
In 1880, the two brothers went before the Cherokee Nation Commission on Citizenship and petitioned to regain their citizenship. To explain, leaving the Cherokee Nation was to forfeit citizenship. The Crittenden brothers were again members of the nation. The quality of both parents' families was noted by the commission.

They appear not to have lived near each other after that. Charles told the Dawes Commission of being in the Choctaw Nation working around the coal mines. After his marriage in 1886 he lived in Checotah.

James came back to the home area where his father had owned land in the Grand River Valley. Mentions of James are found frequently in early issues of "The Grove Sun." He seems to have farmed, as did most people in those days, and perhaps had some business interests. He married Elizabeth Butler, daughter of Elowie and Dorcas Landrum Butler. One child was born to this marriage; Electa Crittenden was born Dec. 4, 1889. and named for her grandmother.

Elizabeth died Feb. 29, 1896, and was buried in Butler Cemetery on the south side of Honey Creek. James later married Esther Caudill who died Sept. 21, 1948.

James died May 25, 1953, at a rest home near Miami where he had lived since Esther died. The obituary, which has some errors, says James was survived by "his daughter, Electa Crain of Los Angeles, Calif., and several distant relatives." Nothing else has been found on Electa Crain. James' obituary says that he was buried in Olympus Cemetery, but we have found no monument for him or Esther also said to be buried there.

Jarrell Browning, who owns the property where Electa Crittenden' s gravestone is, grew up in the house on the property. The house, Jarrell says, was a Carey house moved in from the Patricia Island area when Grand Lake was built. Jarrell remembers that a man wearing a dark coat visited the grave over the years Jarrell was growing up. The visitor must have been James Crittenden. Jarrell says there have been no visitors to the grave since he was young.

There are more of these family graves in Grove. One child's stone is near a house in northeast Grove where it is being protected. The gravestone reads "Our Fannie" with no surname. The date of death is early 1870s. So far I have been unsuccessful in identifying what family this child belongs to.

In another case, two children's gravestones are loose near a house in inner Grove. Undoubtedly, other graves may be unmarked in the older sections of the town.

Copyright © 2007 Rose Stauber

Observations...

2007-09-21T01:52:00.000-07:00

According to the Oklahoma District Court Records web site, the trial of John Special, accused of negligent homicide in a boating accident in July 2006 on Grand Lake, will begin Monday at 9 a.m...We made a quick trip to Dallas early this week. As we got away from Grove the price of gasoline dropped steadily all the way, until it reached $2.48 a gallon in Dallas, almost 40 cents cheaper. How is that? We walked through a real grocery store and drooled over the seafood selection; ate a great burger at Snuffer's and stopped in McAlester at the Western Sizzlin Steakhouse. Wish we had one of those in Grove, a great concept...The tour guides at Pensacola Dam this summer gave more than 7,000 visitors a tour of the powerhouse, up 31% from 2006 and 117% from 2004, when professional senior citizens were first used to give tours, says GRDA...City officials are trying to figure out the best trees to plant in the middle of the new sidewalks downtown. They need a slow growing tree with not much root system, so as to not destroy the sidewalks. How about a Japanese Bonsai?...Speaking of downtown, it's time for the city to take on absentee property owners of dilapidated buildings, mostly empty, boarded up, fire hazards. The owners should be forced to repair and rent them out, or take them down...During the budget process last May, Council deleted a request by the police department for a pedestrian crosswalk signal. Maybe they should think about restoring that item now that people will be returning downtown again...

Cobras, Tractors & Archery Highlight Pelican Festival

2007-09-21T01:50:00.000-07:00

Area residents can kick off Fall by attending all of the events the region has to offer this weekend. There's fun for everyone with a good measure of hometown pride in all the various events planned.
First off, the grand daddy of them all, Grand Lake Association’s 24th Annual Pelican Festival. The activities and fun will take place on September 21-22 at the Flying Cow Arena on Hwy 59 just 6 miles North of Grove and 5 miles South of I-44 at the Afton exit. Hours for activities taking place at the Flying Cow Arena are 3:00 to 7:00 pm Friday the 21st with the barn dance from 7:00 to 10:00 pm. and Saturday gates open at 9:00 am and again the barn dance will run until 10p.m. Best part of the entire Pelican Festival, there is no admission charge to any of our events.
These are the activities that will greet you at Flying Cow: arts and crafts vendors, tasty food vendors, and live entertainment. Celebrating the new release of her book titled Set Me Adrift in the Sea of Faith, author Judith Ames David will be signing copies of her book which is also available for purchase.
The latest ATV’s and sporting goods will be on display, and you can test your skills to win prizes and trophies in the archery competition which will feature a 3-D shoot with two classifications, youth through 15 and adult. This 3-D archery competition will take place on Saturday, September 22 beginning at 8:00 am and running until 5:00 pm. First place in the youth category will win a bow valued at $300. The adult class first place prize is a Hoyt Vectrix Bow valued at $800. There will be prizes for second and third place too. Entry fee for the adult competition shoot is $20 and for youth only $5.
Also on Saturday, members of the Tired Iron of the Ozarks tractor club will be on hand with a fine display of antique tractors and engines. Tired Iron of the Ozarks is a non-profit educational and historical organization whose goal is to inform and educate the general public about farm life in the early 20th century. All visitors to the display will have a chance to vote for “best of show.” There will be other antique tractors from clubs in Welch, OK and Anderson, MO as well.
The kids can have fun bouncing around on the huge inflatable jumping gyms that will be at the Flying Cow Arena. While Mom and Dad are walking around the arena, we’ll have the kids busy in their own “fun zone” competing for prizes and awards at the games planned for them.
Come evening time there will still be plenty of activities taking place. Both nights you can enjoy live entertainment featuring the very talented Bill Adkins and Marshall Mitchell performing both country and some “classic” rock ‘n roll. Bill and Marshall interact with the audience to bring that special touch of fun to entertainment. Wear your dancin’ boots; kick up your heels and Texas Two-Step at the barn dance.
On Saturday morning at 10:00 am get to Main Street Grove for a parade you won’t want to miss and won’t soon forget featuring the 70 members of the World Famous Marching Cobras Drill Team from Kansas City, MO. They will perform along the entire parade route along with the marching bands from Grove schools and a few others. You’ll have another opportunity to see the award-winning, awe inspiring Marching Cobras perform when they take to the floor at 1:00 pm at the Flying Cow Arena. This is one performance you won’t want to miss.
The parade theme for 2007 is “Oklahoma Centennial ~ 100 years of change.” Everyone is invited to take part and join in the fun. Start building an awesome float to compete in the parade and a chance to win some extra dollars for your group or organization. There is no entry fee to compete for the parade “Best Float”.
When the parade is over, be sure to join the fun at the Community Center at Third and Grand where the Grove Downtown Merchants Association is hosting an Arts & Crafts Fair and Sale.
Then it’s time to travel to Pelican Landing Resort if you want to taste the fare at the annual Hook ‘N Cook-off being held by the Grand Lake Area Chamber of Commerce. They are selling their advance tasting tickets for only $5.00 for adults and $3.00 for children. This fun runs from 11:30 am to 2:00 pm.
Pelican Landing is located 4 ½ miles east of Ketchum. There will also be arts and crafts vendors and music performed by Lickty Split. For tickets and additional information, call the Grand Lake Area Chamber.
Now it wouldn’t be a fall festival if we didn’t include some activities going on at the Island—Monkey Island that is. Leave it up to the island’s No. 1 Cheerleader, Joyce Duke to come up with something completely “outside the box.” This year they’ve planned “The Old Coots Talent (No Talent) Show” which will be taking place at Big Shots. Doors will open at 3:00 pm Saturday with the show following at 4:00 pm. Monies raised will be divided between DCCSAN, the Humane Society and the favorite charity of the talent contest winner. Sorry kids, this event is for the 21 and older age group.
If you want additional information on any of the activities visit our website at www.grandlakefun.com or call 866-LUV-GRAND or 918-786-2289. The Pelican festival is brought to you by the Grand Lake Association and its members including these fine sponsors; City of Grove, AEP Public Service of Oklahoma, Seneca-Cayuga Tribal Gaming Corp, Tempy’s Sporting Goods, Bank of Grove, Northeast Electric Cooperative, and Grand Bank.

News Analysis--Hospital PR Releases

2007-09-14T02:00:00.003-07:00

Expect to see a lot of medical articles in the coming weeks on the front page of the Grove Sun Daily, as the local hospital public relations office preps the public for the $1 million tax donation from the city for a new hospital.
One such article appeared Monday in the Sun Daily, "Hospital Foundation Gives Back to the Community." It talked about a program begun nine years ago to provide defibrillators for every school in Delaware and Ottawa counties and how it saved lives.
The article was accompanied by a photo of three persons who survived cardiac arrest incidents and was obviously pulled from a hospital filing cabinet and recycled with the article.
The bad news is that one of the persons in the photo had died some time ago, forcing the Sun Daily to issue a front page Apology in Wednesday's edition. The family of the deceased person must have been sorely upset at the photo, which identified the man as surviving a cardiac arrest incident, which at one time he had, but had since passed away.
The second bad news is this is what happens when a PR department gets so full of itself and fails to check the facts before putting out a news release and photo to an unsuspecting reporter.
Newspapers don't have the resources to fact check every PR release that gets dumped on the desk and they depend on professional PR people for accuracy.
But here at The Observer we can relax---the local hospital has refused for two years to send us any of their news releases. We might ask too many questions.

DA's Office Cites Law to County Commissioners

2007-09-14T02:00:00.002-07:00

A move by Delaware County Commissioners Monday to hire an Oklahoma City law firm which specializes in legal consultation for setting up a TIF (tax increment financing) district was averted on the advice of the District Attorney's office.

Nick Lelecas, assistant district attorney for Delaware and Ottawa counties, asked that the matter be no actioned, citing State Statute 62-855 which first requires the governing body to appoint a review committee to review and make a recommendation concerning the proposed district.

The committee is required to be made up of a representative of the governing body, who serves as chairperson; a representative of the planning commission; a representative of each taxing district whose ad valorem taxes might be impacted; and three members of the public at large to be selected by the other committee members from a list of seven names submitted by the chairperson.

All meetings of the review committee would be subject to the Open Meetings Act and Executive Sessions could be held if necessary. At least two public meetings would be held, under the act.

In attendance at the meeting were Grove City Manager Bruce Johnson and Mayor Gary Bishop. Johnson told the commissioners that he had previous experience at setting up a TIF district and could offer advice if requested. Commissioner Ken Crowder said "we just wanted to look into it." Commissioner Dave Kendrick said phase One of the law firm's study would cost $25,000. One source said that Peter Boylan, who is developing the Peninsula Resort on Monkey Island, had suggested hiring the Center for Economic Development Law in Oklahoma City to develop the plan. Johnson said the key was "would the project happen with, or without, the TIF?" Kendrick said that Boylan would pay for the study if the project were not advanced.

A TIF district in Oklahoma City that helped finance the Bricktown development went to a vote of the people, Janet Warford-Perry, told the group, and she cited the Great Plains Airline debacle in Tulsa as one that did not go to a vote of the people.

The law firm cited several economic development projects in Oklahoma utilizing tax increment financing, including the OU Health Science Center, the Oklahoma Health Center Economic Development Project, Oklahoma City's Downtown Central Business District Redevelopment Program, and the Oklahoma City MAPS project downtown, the OU Campus Corner project, Shawnee Downtown Revitalization Project, and economic development projects in Guymon and Durant.

P&Z Board Recommends Public Hearings on Building Heights

2007-09-14T02:00:00.001-07:00

The Grove Planning & Zoning Board will hold a series of public hearings very soon to get input on changing the current city codes on building height restrictions. The vote was 3-0 taken at this week's meeting held Tuesday afternoon.

City Manager Bruce Johnson endorsed the move, stating "perfect, very good stuff." Also endorsing it was Mo Parker, City Planner.

Board member Bob Brogdon said it would be foolish to endorse new six-story condo's without a plan. "We need input from the public to determine what is appropriate for Grove, then get the ordinances in place, then issue building permits, not the reverse," he said. "We need to look at the basic structure--codes, fire protection, city water, sewer and gas needs, parking, EMS access, egress to streets, traffic control, and determine where high-rise structures are appropriate, and where they are not appropriate."

Judith Read said she endorsed all of that and asked "What do we want Grove to look like in the future? Let's follow the rules and regulations and get the proper permits."

Chairman Bettie Kardos-Bishop, who is retiring from the board this month after 11 years of service, said she echoed these sentiments.

Brogdon made the motion to recommend that City Council not make any changes at this time and that the P&Z Board hold a series of public hearings immediately on a plan for high rise structures and where they should be located.

Both Brogdon and Read praised Bishop for her years of service. "She has no personal agenda and has done a great job and I hope we can get someone just as good to replace her," Read said. She added "it would be nice if the local newspapers would cover these meetings, someone besides The Grove Observer." The Observer was the only media source at the meeting.

There are now two openings on the P&Z Board, since Norma Halterman resigned August 16.

Cornell Wins Commissioner Race

2007-09-14T02:00:00.000-07:00

Billy R. Cornell was elected Delaware County Commissioner District 2 with 64% of the vote over Janet Warford-Perry, who received 35.9% in Tuesday's election, according to unofficial county election board figures.

Perry carried both Grove precincts and the Zena precinct where she lives, but not by enough margin to overcome Cornell's showing in Jay and the south county area. (In 1907, Jay voters turned out in higher numbers than Grove and moved the county seat to Jay as a result) Straight party voting came to 71% for Democrat, 28% for Republican.

Cornell received 717 votes, Perry 402, for a total of 1119. There are 8,975 registered voters in District 2 precincts, which means only 12.8% turned out. (A higher percentage of Iraqis voted in elections in early 2007.)

New Street Lights Being Installed

2007-09-14T01:55:00.002-07:00

Grove's Downtown Revitalization Phase One is nearing completion this week with the installation of the antique looking street lights; sometime soon the new trees will go in and Phase One will be completed.

Cornerstone Church Rescinds Sales Offer

2007-09-14T01:55:00.001-07:00

The board of Elders and Trustees of Cornerstone Church in Grove has voted to rescind any and all offers to consider entertaining and/or selling the facilities and property.

In a letter to Connie Brewer, chairperson of the Blue Ribbon Committee, Pastor Bill Lay said "it was never our intent to put our facilities 'on the market'--we have been approached about selling but never gave it any consideration."

"The only reason we considered it this time was because we saw the value this would bring to the Grove community. It seemed to represent a 'win-win' situation for us and the community. New city offices, theater, and aquatic park, in one location…would have been wonderful for Grove."

"It was a valiant effort for a noble cause which should have gone beyond partisan politics," Lay said. "I want to thank you and the Blue Ribbon Committee for all the work which you put forth in attempting to provide the Grove community with an outstanding opportunity," he said in his letter.

The Blue Ribbon Committee presented its final recommendations to City Council in July, which were met with deafening silence. Councilman Larry Parham said the numbers presented in the study were incorrect and the true cost of a new community center was beyond the city's capability at this time. He also said a new swimming pool could be built for around $1.3 million and he hoped that would be accomplished within a year.

The Committee had proposed purchasing Cornerstone Church, adding seats to the auditorium, remodeling the building for banquets, meetings, and other events; adding a 50,000 square foot building for large events like the Boat Show; selling the current Civic Center; and building a new pool near the Church location.

City Attorney Candidates File Proposals

2007-09-14T01:55:00.000-07:00

Five candidates for city attorney have submitted their proposals to City Hall as of the deadline Tuesday. Former City Attorney Ron Cates resigned August 21 upon learning that City Council would actively seek new applicants for the job.

New applicants include Logan & Lowry, Grove; Johnny P Akers, Bartlesville; Gregory J. Crawford, Grove; The Hartley Law Firm, Vinita; and Ken Gallon, Miami.

Logan & Lowry, specifically Dave Jones and Donna Smith, spent a year fighting the city in their legal representation of the Grove Municipal Airport Trust Authority Board, in 2006, over the issue of who owned title to the airport property.

Poll Results

2007-09-14T01:20:00.000-07:00

In last week's Observer we asked our readers: Should $1 million in tax money be given by the city to the Integris Hospital Corporation to build a new $58 million hospital in Grove.

Results:
Yes--29%
No---71%

Girls Volleyball Registration Open

2007-09-14T01:00:00.001-07:00

Girls 10 to 14 years of age can begin signing up for youth volleyball at the YMCA .
The volleyball program is intended to teach basic volleyball skills and techniques. Each player will receive a jersey and participation award. Knee and elbow pads are not required but are recommended.
Registration runs through September 28 with practices starting the first week of October. Games will begin the week of October 15.
Cost is $25 for YMCA members and $35 for non-members.
For more information contact the YMCA at 786-5774 or drop by the facility at 206 Elk in Grove right behind Pizza Hut.

YMCA Football Underway

2007-09-14T01:00:00.000-07:00

Registration is now underway at the YMCA for Youth Flag football for boys and girls four to seven years old.
According to YMCA executive director Butch Christy, the objective of this program is to teach basic football skills in a safe, fun and controlled environment.
The programs begins on September 25 and all equipment is provided. Parent participation is required at the four and five year old level. Volunteer coaches are welcome and needed.
Pre-registration is required and runs through September 21.
Cost is $25 for YMCA members and $35 for non-members.
For more information contact the YMCA at 786-5774 or drop by the facility at 206 Elk.

Poll Results

2007-09-11T20:06:00.000-07:00

P&Z to Hold Meeting Tuesday

2007-09-07T02:15:00.001-07:00

The Grove Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a regular meeting next Tuesday at 3 p.m. at City Hall. Agenda items have not been approved by the City Manager as of press deadline but sources said the meeting may include discussion of the proposed changes in height restrictions, an item which is to be discussed at the Sept. 18 City Council meeting without first being considered by P&Z.
Title 11, Chapter 1 Sec. 43-105 of the Oklahoma Statutes, states:
"...the Municipal governing body shall appoint a commission to be known as the zoning commission to recommend the boundaries of the various original districts and to recommend appropriate regulations to be enforced therein. The commission shall make a preliminary report and hold public hearings thereon before submitting its final report. The governing body shall not hold its public hearings or take action until it has received the final report of the commission..."

Commissioners to Discuss Hiring TIF Specialists

2007-09-07T02:15:00.000-07:00

Just one day before the election of a new County Commissioner, the remaining two commissioners will discuss the possible hiring of an Oklahoma City firm that specializes in economic development projects through TIF (tax increment financing) districts. The meeting is at 9 a.m. at the Jay Courthouse.
The firm, Center for Economic Development Law, is headed by James Dan Batchelor and offers legal services in the creation of financial strategies for economic and community development projects.
Sources said the proposed TIF district would specifically benefit the Peninsula project on Monkey Island headed by Peter Boylan. The matter is being considered while only two commissioners are seated, as Tuesday's election will decide who will represent District Two for the third seat.
The matter is listed as Agenda Item 11.

Council OK's $6.4 Million in Bond Issuance

2007-09-07T01:10:00.000-07:00

Bonds Will Finance Expansion of Precision Leasing

Grove City Council members approved the proposed issuance of $6.4 million in revenue bonds for financing the expansion of Precision Leasing Company LLC in Grove which will add some 30 new employees to the staff. The City is neither the lender nor the borrower.

At Tuesday's meeting, Council also honored Jim Rhoads as Employee of the Month, citing him for discovering a leaking low pressure natural gas line belonging to the new Early Education Center and bringing it to the attention of his supervisors. Testing showed the line was actually leaking, officials said, and "the gas could have migrated into the school building causing a disaster for our community."

Council also approved 5-0 to bid out for a new 2008 police pursuit vehicle at an estimated cost of $33,000; three dispatcher work stations for the police department at a cost of $15-$30,000; bids for installation and purchase of video sensor equipment at the traffic light at Third & Main, with $30,000 budgeted in 07-08; and purchase of a new four wheel drive backhoe at an estimated cost of $65,000 for GMSA use.

A Questionnaire to Commissioner Candidates...

2007-09-07T01:04:00.000-07:00

The Grove Observer recently sent a questionnaire to both candidates for County Commissioner, District 2, regarding the upcoming Sept. 11 election, with a deadline of Sept. 1 for returning the questionnaire. Candidate Billy Cornell did not return the questionnaire. Candidate Janet Warford-Perry's responses are printed below:

1. What do you see as the top three problems facing the county the next two years?

An overcrowded jail, settling the MIDA lawsuit and stretching or finding the additional funds to build roads because the price of crude oil drives up the cost of all goods the county utilizes.

2. The county jail in Jay has been discussed at commissioner meetings for more than a year. How will you address the mandate of the state, building a new jail, and the financing of it?

It has never been my understanding that the state mandated building a new jail. The state has mandated the county to address the overcrowding situation in the existing facility.

I do not favor building a new jail because the citizens of this county, particularly in Grove, tell me they can't afford an increased city sales tax rate to finance another jail.

Instead of building another new castle for the incarcerated, I favor remodeling the old jail as a first step. In addition to that, I feel that county leaders need to find alternative methods of punishment instead of incarceration. For example, sentencing inmates to wear ankle bracelets and report in each day to a work crew that would, among other
things, clear brush left over from the tornado and ice storm, pick up trash, and a variety of county work.

If a jail must be built, I prefer setting up a work farm where prisoners grow their own food and don't have time to whittle a toothbrush into an implement of destruction. I have researched this type of set up and if elected, will share more detailed plans with the citizens.

3. The county may face payment of a $3 million debt due to the lawsuit over the Grand Lake Regional Airport on Monkey Island. Where will you come up with the money?

It is my understanding that the county's insurance policy may cover some of this liability, otherwise, the people of this county may have to share the costs via increased property taxes of a settling a lawsuit that was created by alleged backroom deals, mismanagement, racketeering and conspiracy by local officials.

4. Do you understand the Open Meeting Act? Will you follow it?

For years I've held local and state officials' feet to the fire regarding the Open Meeting Act and the Open Records Act. Not only will I adhere to those laws, but I expect the people of this county to hold my feet to the fire. I will not hub up in a backroom or anywhere else with another commissioner and discuss business--it's against the Open Meeting Act.

5. How will you administer county road funds?

First, I would design a five-year plan for road maintenance to expend county funds in the most cost effective manner. Instead of putting that five-year plan on a shelf to gather dust, it would become a living document that we worked from every day. I'd make sure the road foreman and his crew set and achieved weekly as well as monthly goals to better
maintain your roads.

6. What steps would you take to improve the efficiency of county government?

District 2 needs a commissioner who can plan its work and oversee as employees work its plan. Organization is probably the key to making this district or any other more efficient.

I also plan to keep the citizens of this district more informed than it has been in the past, specifically by creating a website where they can review upcoming projects and offer suggestions via email for road work that needs to be done in their neighborhood. Additionally, I hope to provide the public with a monthly newspaper column and/or periodic newsletter of accomplishments within the district.

However, I might caution that as with any job, whether it be government or with the private sector, until the new commissioner is elected and can review the present situation, it's impossible to foresee specific needs of this district.

Observations...

2007-09-07T01:03:00.002-07:00

The Eggs and Issues breakfast Friday featuring the two county commissioner candidates, sponsored by the Grove Chamber, has been cancelled due to lack of interest. Not a good sign; either everyone has made up their mind or they just don't care about county government...Downtown Grove is looking much better and the first phase of the Revitalization Project is due for completion in just a couple of weeks; the new light poles should be installed by next week, and the trees will wait until cooler weather in October, say city officials…They say that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. Not exactly. We're tired of seeing our photos and words in print in other area newspapers. First, it's against the copyright laws, and second, it is plagiarism, the ugliest form of journalism. We don't make a dime on this blog but the newspapers doing the copying do. The next time it happens, we're going to sue in court. Our policy is that if we cannot cover the event ourselves, we don't steal stuff from other newspapers…Grove Rotarians were treated to a really bad report card on the general health of state residents by State Senator Brian Crane of Tulsa this week. After dining on a nice lunch of fried chicken, mashed taters and gravy, we were told Oklahomans smoke too much, drink too much, don’t eat right, don't exercise, have abundant heart disease, a shorter life expectancy than the rest of the country and getting shorter, and we rank 10th in suicides. So get out there and eat your five servings a day of fruit, two servings a day of vegetables, give up Chicken Fried Steak and gravy, exercise at least 20 minutes a day, quit smoking, and knock off on the suicides. We Okies need to improve our image…

An Editorial...County Commissioner Choices

2007-09-07T01:03:00.001-07:00

Janet Warford-Perry, one of the two candidates running for Delaware County Commissioner in next Tuesday's election, does not wear a hat or know how to drive a road grader. But as she says, she can buy a hat and hire someone to run the road grader, it's the rest of the job that matters.

Actually, it is what's under the hat that matters the most, and this is why Janet should be elected County Commissioner by the voters. After all, she's already attended more commissioner meetings than even the sitting commissioners, as a reporter for the Miami News-Record for many years.

Her background in the insurance industry gives her the insight to manage a $4.1 million business that affects every man, woman and child in Delaware County-- your taxes, law enforcement, and a host of other issues. Running county government is a business and those in charge should be experienced in business, not just mowing or road grading.

The Observer urges all registered voters in the precincts affected to get out and vote on Tuesday and make the right choice for County Commissioner. Read her answers to our Questionnaire elsewhere in this edition, then cast your vote for Warford-Perry.

An Opinion Poll...

2007-09-07T01:03:00.000-07:00

We want our reader's opinions. Should $1 million of taxpayer money be donated to the Integris Hospital Corporation to help build a new $58 million hospital in Grove?

Yes, or No.

Simply send an email to groveobserver@yahoo.com with "Yes" or "No." Results will be announced in next week's Observer. Deadline is Wednesday, Sept. 12.

We realize this is not a scientific poll but in all likelihood, it is the only one that will be offered on this subject.

Letters to the Editor...

2007-09-07T01:01:00.000-07:00

To the Editor:

It’s understandable, never the less a shame that the boo birds would quickly
open up on Groves new City Council and their appointments. A local blogger took full aim with some exaggerated and unnecessary criticism to do what he could to demean the newly elected councils efforts to restore some semblance of common sense to city government.

Wonder if the blogger took into consideration that those elected to the new council were all elected by wide margins, indicating that there was extreme dissatisfaction with the former council and its appointments? Shouldn’t the new council respond to the expressed desire of the majority? Real criticism for the new guys would be much more warranted if they had not responded to the clear call of the voters!

Grove is in the fortunate position of being located where growth and change is inevitable, so I suppose are 5 or 6 story buildings, a subject which seems to have upset a few folks. The council is elected to oversee and help manage this sort of development. They not only have the right, but the responsibility to discuss and vote on the changes that seem to be on the horizon. The Council has the committees and authorities to refer questions to, and I’m certain they will. It is premature to begin to criticize them for approving or disapproving matters that haven’t yet even been taken into consideration! That is, I suppose unless you’re just looking for something to criticize!

One minor item in that blog referred to our new City Manager as a “miniBall” referring I suppose to Richard Ball who held that position for over 15 years. A great deal of growth and progress occurred during Mr. Ball’s term, in fact during that period Grove really grew up! No one agreed with him all the time either but the city progressed with little chaos! Many, including the blogger weren’t even residents during most of that period, but they are still ready to make their critical comments!
After the still recent elections, changes were inevitable. Those who supported the other side should be well aware that changes would take place. Before being so quick to be critical why not give these efforts some time to work out? Most of the changes are exactly what the council was elected and expected to do. It will take some time to make accurate and honest evaluations of their success. We should all hope they will succeed! After all, their success will be in everyone’s best interest!

Bob Hinkle
Grove, OK

(Editors Note: Our editorial concerned the performance to date of the new city manager. We continue to believe that he is a hired businessman who should manage the city in the best interests of all the residents. We will be happy to share the success stories of city management with our readers, provided we learn about them.)

Grove Rotary Students of the Month

2007-09-07T01:00:00.003-07:00

Jana Hill and Tyler Dodson are Grove Rotary Club's Students of the Month. Both are seniors at Grove High School. Jana plans on attending college and a teaching career and maybe writing a novel, while Tyler would like to be a coach and teacher after college graduation.

What's In the Newspapers this Week

2007-09-07T01:00:00.002-07:00

Here's what the out of town newspapers are reporting this week:

County Commissioner's Wife Faces Embezzlement Charge
read at
http://newsok.com/article/3117873/

Carthage Seeking Opinions on Comprehensive Plan
read at
http://www.joplinglobe.com/local/local_story_247234748.html

Lendonwood to Honor Volunteers

2007-09-07T01:00:00.001-07:00

Garden volunteers and supporters will be honored at the Lendonwood Gardens Annual Meeting and Party on Tuesday, September 11, at the public botanical garden in Grove.
The casual outdoor party will feature music, food, a plant sale and a silent auction of several bonsai plants, according to Sharon Houck, chairman of the event committee. A barbecue dinner will be catered by Larry Koch of Cimarron Doc’s Bar-B-Q and Chili Company in Grove. Guitar music will be provided by musician Jered Swopes, Houck said. The party will begin at 5:30 p.m.
During the evening, there will be a short business meeting to vote on a new slate of officers for the Lendonwood Board of Directors. In addition, Lendonwood members will vote on a proposed change in the by-laws.
Cindy Reynolds, president of the garden’s board, said the highlight of the evening will be the opportunity to say “thank you” to the many volunteers, members and supporters who have contributed to the beauty and success of the garden. “Without the hard work and contributions of these supporters, Lendonwood would not be the community jewel it has become,” Reynolds said.
More than 1,200 types of plants fill the public garden’s three acres at 1308 West 13th Street (Har-Ber Road) in Grove. Highlights include large, colorful collections of rhododendrons, dogwoods, daylilies, Japanese maples, and hostas.
Lendonwood also is home to the Angel of Hope statue garden, a serene memorial to lost loved ones. In addition, a large Japanese pavilion overlooks a scenic pond filled with koi.
Lendonwood is a non-profit organization operated by a Board of Directors consisting of volunteers from the local community.

Commissioner Voting Information...

2007-09-07T01:00:00.000-07:00

Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, September 11, 2007 for the Special General Election and Dixie Smith, Secretary of the Delaware County Election Board, offered voters some tips on how to make their votes count.

Smith said a valid marking ---a filled-in arrow---is shown on posters at the polling place and inside the voting booths. If voters make mistakes marking their ballots, Smith said they should not try to correct those errors. Instead, voters should return the spoiled ballot to the Precinct Officials, who will destroy it and issue a new ballot to the voter.

Smith also urged voters to take their Voter Identification Cards to the polls with them. “Your voter identification card can help Precinct officials find your name in the Precinct Registry and it may also help them resolve the problem if you are not listed in the Precinct Registry.”

Voters whose names are not found in the Precinct Registry, or a voter who disagrees with the information shown in the Registry, may need to cast a provisional ballot. A provisional ballot is sealed in a special envelope and counted after Election Day if the voter’s information can be verified by the County Election Board.

Smith said voters who want to get through the line quickly should vote mid-morning or mid-afternoon, because those usually are the two slowest periods for voting during the day.

“Anyone who is eligible and in line at the polling place at 7 p.m. on Tuesday will be entitled to vote,” she added.

Following is a list of the precinct polling place locations in Delaware County for County Commissioner District #2 and Turkey Ford Schools:

Delaware County Polling Places
For County Commissioner District #2

Precinct Polling Location Address

210007

1st United Methodist Church
1005 Leisure Rd.
Grove, OK 74344

210009

Independent Baptist Church
11th and Grand
Grove, OK 74344

210012

Zena Community Center
36000 S. 575 Rd.
Jay, OK 74346

210014

1st Assembly of God Church
(In Jay)

908 N. Main
Jay, OK 74346

210015

Assembly of God Church
(In Topsy)
40867 S. 510 Rd.
Eucha, OK 74342

210017

Eucha Fire Dept.
7024 E. 432 Rd.
Eucha, OK 74342

210018

Mt. Hermon Church Rec. Bldg.
(6 miles E of Jay)
18035 E. 420 Rd.
Jay, OK 74346

City Council to Bypass P&Z Board

2007-08-31T01:15:00.000-07:00

For the first time in at least a decade, the Grove Planning & Zoning Board will be bypassed by Grove City Council, when it discusses amendments to the city's height zoning restrictions Sept. 18.

The P&Z Board currently has two vacancies and will not hold a September meeting.

Normal Halterman resigned Aug. 16 and Bettie Kardos-Bishop, who has served on the board since 1997, did not wish to be re-appointed and her term ends in October.
Members of the P&Z board are upset that normal procedures are not being followed, to first post a notice of the proposed changes, then hold a public P&Z hearing on the matter.

In her resignation letter to Council, Mrs. Halterman said "it is extremely disheartening when, as in the past three to four months, any kind of positive growth in Grove seems to have reached a stalemate, in fact, we seem to be going backward rather than forward...it simply does not serve the public good when there exists an agenda to go backward to 'the good ole days' or 'the way things used to be' or continually casting aspersions toward persons who formerly occupied specific positions as well as saving positions of employment for a favorite 'bubba' when there is a vacancy....Keeping tensions at a high level is tremendously destructive to the kind of growth we need and would like to see in Grove."

There is no law requiring such matters to be first considered at a P&Z meeting before being taken up by City Council.

Sources told The Observer that the reason for the Sept. 18 discussion is that there are several developers waiting for approvals to build up to six-story high rise condominiums in Grove, one in particular at Barker's Marina on Wolf Creek.

The city's fire department does not have equipment for structures taller than three stories and a new truck would cost $1 million, sources said.
In addition, the new Grove Integris Hospital is thought to be the equivalent of five stories tall; the new Seneca Cayuga Casino on Highway 59 will have a five story hotel. At least two other condo developers have visited City Hall.
"We question the principle of holding a Council meeting on such changes without first having hearings by the Planning & Zoning Board," one member said. "Will the public have an opportunity to voice their opinions? Do we have the infrastructure, water and sewer, to support all of these buildings? Will we turn into another Lake of the Ozarks?"

Phone calls to City Manager Bruce Johnson for comment were not returned.

An Editorial...The First 60 Days

2007-08-31T01:14:00.000-07:00

City Manager Bruce Johnson has completed his first 60 days as Grove City Manager, at a salary of $105,000, or $20,000 more than the previous city manager who had 30 years experience.

So how's the young fella doing?
In just 60 days:

--He has managed to get rid of the police chief.
--He has managed to get rid of the city attorney.
--He has poor manners, offending female visitors to his office by putting his feet up on his desk, and refusing to return phone calls.
--He does not communicate well with his own employees.
--He has never returned a single phone call to The Observer, in an attempt to censor the news.
--He has been described as arrogant and a "mini-Ball."
--He has ignored 10 months of work by the Blue Ribbon Committee, saying he wants to put together a new five year plan for city projects.
--He is planning to bypass the Planning & Zoning Board, setting discussion of changing the height zoning agreements at the Sept. 18 City Council meeting.
--He watches good citizens abandon their positions on the various trust authority boards, and approves appointments of people who will be "yes men" to the new council.
--He ignores the fact that his salary is paid by all the taxpayers in Grove, not just the ones that voted for the new council in April.
--He has doubled his salary in one year, from the City of Dewey, Ok, and with a 9-month severance check if he gets fired before his one-year contract is up. Only 305 days to go.

With any luck, he can make a half million cool ones by 2011 when the next big Council election is held. By then, many of the senior citizens hauled out of nursing homes to vote will have passed away, unaware of Sherman's March Across Georgia.

Apparently Johnson's orders were stapled to his office door upon arrival July 1 and he is following them to the letter. It would have served him better if he had come here giving signs of wanting to work for ALL of Grove's citizens rather than just one faction, in this city clearly carved in half. Look for more good people to be fired just because they were hired or were endorsed by the previous city manager.

Grove Beginnings...Part 13, The Grove Sun

2007-08-31T01:13:00.001-07:00

The Grove Sun, the True Story

By Rose Stauber
The just past owners of the "The Grove Sun'" produced a flawed version
of the history of the newspaper. The newspaper is the best source for the
history of Grove and the people who lived in the town and the
surrounding area. I think it important that the correct story be told about the
newspaper. So here goes.

Some scraps of evidence of early newspapers include a copy of the
front page of "The Grove Cimeter", Vol. I, No. 1, dated November 25, 1898.
It was reproduced in the "The Grove Sun" of April 12, 1952. The page
contained no local news. W.N. Moore was publisher. Of him I know nothing else.

Another fragment of a newspaper was "The Messenger." The reproduction
I have of part of this front page was in the June 30, 2006, "The Grove
Sun." It is given as Vol. I with no issue number visible and dated Jan. 12,
1900. Another reproduction of the top half of a front page of "The Grove
Messenger" is dated June 7, 1900. It is Vol. I, but the number has
been cut off.

Then we have Lula Dale Duckworth Jones reporting that John Gibson and
Gus Ivy have started a newspaper. Nothing more is known of Gus Ivy. Her
report gives no date. The first surviving copy of "The Grove Sun" is the issue
of October 7, 1904, and is Vol. V, No. 32. The issue of March 3, 1905, is
Vol. VI, No. 1. When I do the math, it means that "The Grove Sun" was
founded in March 1899. These early copies carry a masthead with "J.H. Gibson
Editor and Publisher." The newspaper is printed every Friday at Grove, I.T.,
and a subscription is $1 a year.

Last year "The Grove Sun" began a new volume, Vol. 109, No. 1, on Nov.
27, 2006. The Sun claims it began publication in 1898 with an
anniversary in November. This would appear to be based on claiming "The Cimeter" as
the ancestor. I have no evidence to support that assumption.

In the biography of Gibson in the history, "Oklahoma – State and
People," we find this: …
"in 1889 (sic), he founded the Grove "Messenger," and was its editor
until the fall of 1904, when he leased the paper, and later, in 1906, sold
it."
The founding date is obviously wrong, and the dates of lease and sale
are not quite right.

These early copies of the "The Grove Sun" are found on Oklahoma
Historical Society microfilm. OHS has the responsibility for preserving Oklahoma
newspapers, and has microfilmed everything it could find. The Grove
Public Library has microfilm of all existing newspapers published in Delaware
County, and has a standing order for the "The Grove Sun" and "Delaware
County Journal."

Statements have been made that O.E. Butler (Orlando E.) founded "The
Grove Sun". That statement is refuted by O.E. himself who wrote in his
Indian-Pioneer statement that he was born in Siloam Springs, Ark, in
1880. The family, the father Henry M. Butler, moved with their nine children
to Pryor Creek, Indian Territory, in 1897. This was a family of printers.
They were almost interchangeable parts. At one time the names of three
Butlers are on "The Grove Sun" masthead.

O.E. says that he had some newspaper experience in Afton and then in
Southwest City, Mo. The 1900 census of Prairie Township, McDonald
County, was taken by Matthew C. Falkenbury, publisher of the Southwest City
newspaper. In his household as a boarder was Orlando E. Butler, age
19, occupation compositor. He came to Grove in 1905. The issue of March
3, 1905, stated that S.L. Tucker had severed relations with the "The Grove
Sun" and that O.E. Butler from the Pryor Creek "Clipper" was now the
business manager. He was listed on the masthead with J.H. Gibson, editor and
proprietor.

Gibson's name remained on the masthead until May 26, 2005, when O.E.
Butler was listed as editor and manager. Gibson's name seems not to have
appeared on the masthead after that date. The next change is more than a year
later when O.E. is editor and manager and S.J. Butler is listed as publisher
on the Aug. 30, 1907, issue. S.J. is O.E.'s brother Joe.

If the paper was sold, nothing is found in surviving issues about the
sale of the name or assets until the issue of Jan. 1, 1909. An item in the
usual column of local doings reads:

"Wednesday, O.E. Butler purchased J.H. Gibson's interest in the
printing materials of this plant. Consideration $650. We now own a plant
valued at $1500."

Dorothy D. Welsh is author of a hard-to-find book "The Butlers: A
Newspaper Family."
She writes: "Apparently, O.E. took over as editor or had a working
interest in the Sun before the actual purchase." Welsh states as fact but with
no proof that "Sometime in 1900, the "Grove Messenger was started by John
H. Gibson and J.T. Whiteside. Gibson purchased the interest of Whiteside
before 1901 and changed the name of the paper to "The Grove Sun" in
July 1901."
I find that John H. Gibson was, as both he and O.E. Butler stated, the
founder of "The Grove Sun."

In the July 12, 1934, issue, the Butlers marked the 34th year of the
Sun. It was Vol. 34, No. 1. Just when was the paper founded? The founder
made it 1899, the Butlers called it 1900, and the just past owners called it
1898.

O.E. Butler did spend most of the rest of his life with "The Grove
Sun", but he moved at one time to Tahlequah and at another time to Pryor.
His son, Owen L. Butler, became his assistant with the newspaper. Butler
died Aug. 5, 1948. After services in Grove, he was buried at Pryor.

Copyright © 2007 Rose Stauber

Observations...

2007-08-31T01:13:00.000-07:00

We hear that the execs from Integris Hospital Corp. in OKC will be in town Sept. 13 to present the site plan for a new hospital in Grove costing $58 million, of which local residents, taxpayers and hospital employees are being asked to donate $5 million. No word on whether this will be a private meeting with the City Manager or in a public session of the Grove hospital trust authority and we'll be the last to know, since the local hospital PR department does not read The Observer or furnish it with news releases. But they want $1 million of your tax money…Just in case there is an attorney licensed to practice Law in Oklahoma lurking inside city government, a Notice was sent to all employees this week advising them of the position being open of City Attorney. Just normal city policy, says City Hall, and they also placed a Help Wanted ad in the local paper, not in the legal notices..…GMSA sent out a Notice to the media this week advising that Coliform Bacteria appeared in the Grove water supply test samples on July 5, 2007 due to cross contamination of test samples in the carrying case. Steps have been taken to insure the mistake does not occur again, says GMSA. But what took them so long, six weeks, to reveal it…Look for postcards at your mailbox, if legal requirements are followed…"Politicians are like diapers, they should be changed regularly, and for the same reasons."..from the movie "Man of the Year."..The Atlanta Falcons have adopted a new stadium song…"Who Let the Dogs Out."…

Open House for Marcia Austin is Friday

2007-08-31T01:10:00.000-07:00

An Open House will be held at the Grove Public Library on
Friday, Aug. 31, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. to say thanks to Library
Manager Marcia Austin for her 25 years of service to the library. Friends of the Grove Public Library are sponsoring the event to thank the person who led the drive to get a new building for the library.

Hool-N-Cookoff Set for Sept. 22

2007-08-31T01:05:00.000-07:00

The aroma of competition cooking will fill the air around Grand Lake O’the Cherokees on Saturday, September 22, as the 14th Annual-6th National Hook-N-Cookoff gets under way at Pelican Landing Resort, located 4-1/2 miles East of Ketchum. The event will be open from 9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. and Tasting Kits go on sale at 11:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
The event features cooks and their teams vying to be recognized as the “Best Cooks” in different categories. Winners will be chosen from those competing as Cooking Teams in the categories of: Best Catfish, Best Hushpuppies, Best Coleslaw, Best Team Spirit, Best Presentation and the coveted People’s Choice Award.
The competition is open to teams consisting of 4 or more people and each team is required to fry a minimum of 45 pounds

of catfish, plus they may also choose to fry the best hushpuppies and create a coleslaw dish that won’t be forgotten. A panel of judges will decide the winners in most of the categories; however team members will also compete for additional points toward the People’s Choice Award by pre-selling Tasting Kit tickets.
Tasting Kit tickets are now on sale for $5 per adult/$3 per child, children under 6 eat for free. Tickets at the door will increase to $6 per adult/$4 per child. Where else can you buy a wonderful meal of catfish, hushpuppies and coleslaw for $5? Only at the 14th Annual Hook-N-Cookoff!
Live entertainment by Lickety Split, Oklahoma All-Star Cheer Team, Kids Zone and an Art & Craft Show will also be part of the day’s activities. It is definitely a day of fun for the whole family! Bring your lawn chair, children, grandchildren, friends and neighbors for a great day of fun and food---Grand Lake Style!
Tasting Kit tickets are now on sale at the Grand Lake Area Chamber of Commerce office, 959 N. 3rd, Ste. A, Langley, Oklahoma, or from one of the Cookoff Team members. For more information about competing as a Cookoff Team in the 14th Annual Hook-N-Cookoff or purchasing advance Tasting Kit tickets, contact the Grand Lake Area Chamber of Commerce via phone, 918-782-3214 or email at info@grandlakechamber.org.

YMCA to Hold Youth Weightlifting Classes

2007-08-31T01:00:00.004-07:00

Beginning Sept. 5, the Grand Lake YMCA will hold monthly youth weightlifting classes for kids 10 to 14 years old.
“These classes will focus on proper weightlifting technique, safety and strength training,” said Butch Christy, executive director of the YMCA. “It’s a great way to improve a young person’s self image.”
According to Christy, sport specific workouts can be designed for participants. Maximum lifts will not be performed and only weights that youths can lift for eight to 12 repetitions will be used.
The class will be taught by Christy who is a Youth Fitness Instructor and Certified Personal Trainer with a B.S. in Physical Education.
Class will be held on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 4:00 to 5:00 pm. Sessions will be held monthly (except December) throughout the school year beginning Sept. 5.
Cost for the Youth Weightlifting class is $20 per month for YMCA members and $35 per month for non-members and must be paid by the first of each month of participation.
For more information contact the YMCA at (918) 786-5774 or drop by the facility at 206 Elk in Grove right behind Pizza Hut.

Library Offers Photographic Exhibit

2007-08-31T01:00:00.003-07:00

Just in time for the Grove All-School Reunion, photographs of the school have taken over the exhibit space in the Grove Public Library. The exhibit is presented by Joyce Gibson of the Gibson family studio.
The photographs concentrate on the decades from the 1940s to 2002 and
range from graduating classes to sports and all types of activities. The photographs all come from the Gibson family collection.
Everyone is welcome to come by the library and enjoy this journey back
in history.

A Matter of Faith...

2007-08-31T01:00:00.002-07:00

By Carol Round

Get Out of the Box
"Ah, Sovereign LORD, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for you.” Jeremiah 32:17 (NIV)

“Out of the box” has become a popular catch phrase, including “thinking outside of the box.”

The term derives from a famous puzzle created by early 20th century British mathematician Henry Ernest Dudeney. The puzzle, consisting of nine dots in a three-by-three grid, challenges those who try to interconnect the dots by using four straight lines without the pencil leaving the paper. In order to be successful, the puzzle solver has to realize that the boundaries of the dot array are psychological. The only way to solve the puzzle is to extend the lines beyond the artificial boundary created by the nine dots.

After my relocation several months ago, I asked a friend to help me decorate my house. I like her taste in décor because it is similar to mine and because she has artfully arranged her own possessions. Melissa has a talent for rearranging, reorganizing and redecorating using the items on hand. A nationally syndicated television program calls it “Design-on-a-Dime.” I call it saving money.

As Melissa went from room to room in my home, she studied what I had available in my collection of photos, artwork, knick-knacks and other décor. After placing various items on the floor, she arranged them in different ways to get the most appealing results. I had given her carte blanche to do as she pleased with my things.

When we finally finished—six hours later—I was amazed at the transformation she had made with my collections and keepsakes. I was also surprised by the everyday ordinary items she used as substitutes to achieve the desired results. Simply amazing.

God’s like that too. He can take everyday ordinary people and use them to achieve His desired results. However, we have to be willing to allow Him to transform us so that He can use us for His purposes. That means we have to get out of our boxes.

When asked to speak at a women’s retreat this fall, I agreed to do a small group session. The request came from a woman who belongs to a different denomination than mine. She said, “Carol, you will be a first for our church.”

When I asked her what she meant, she replied, “You will be the first one outside of our denomination to speak at our retreat.”

Without thinking whether I was stepping on toes, I replied, “God doesn’t care whether you are a Methodist or a Baptist. He just wants to have a relationship with us.”

She replied, “You’re right, Carol. We need to get outside of our box.”

We need to realize that we can’t put people in a box anymore than we can put God in a box. He can do anything. So can we—with His help.

Another definition for “out of the box” comes from the Australian slang for remarkable or exceptional. When we get out of our boxes, God can do remarkable things through us. Are you stepping outside your box?

Check out A MATTER OF FAITH website at www.carolaround.com.

Absentee Ballots Ready

2007-08-31T01:00:00.001-07:00

Voters in Delaware County who want to have absentee ballots mailed to them for the County Commissioner District #2 Special General Election and the Turkey Ford School Special Election on September 11, 2007 should apply now, County Election Board Secretary Dixie Smith said today. Although the County Election Board can accept applications for absentee ballots until 5 p.m. on Wednesday, September 5, 2007 Smith urged voters who want to vote by absentee ballot to apply early. Absentee ballot application forms are available at the County Election Board office located at 225 South 5th Street in Jay.

“At least two mail transactions must be made,” Smith said. “The County Election Board must mail the ballots to the voter and the voter must return the voted ballots by mail.” Ballots must be in the hands of the County Election Board by 7 p.m. on election day in order to be counted.

Smith said any registered voter may vote by absentee ballot in any election in which he or she is eligible to vote. A voter must be registered and reside at an address within the geographical boundaries of County Commissioner District #2 to be eligible to vote in the Special General Election. Voters who are registered within the Turkey Ford School District may also apply for an absentee ballot. It is not necessary to give a reason ---or excuse---for voting absentee. “While anyone can vote absentee without giving a reason, the law still provides several excuses and it is to the advantage of some voters to use one of them,” Smith said. By stating one of the following reasons on their applications, these voters can activate some special conditions that make it easier for them to use absentee ballots.

The reasons are:
--Voters who are physically incapacitated and voters who care for physically incapacitated persons who cannot be left unattended may vote absentee. They may apply only by mail or by fax.

--Voters who are confined to nursing homes in the county may vote absentee. An Absentee Voting board actually goes to the nursing home a few days before the election, sets up a small polling place and allows these persons to vote under circumstances similar to those at a regular precinct polling place. They may apply only by mail or by fax.

--Military personnel and residents of the county living overseas and the spouses and dependents of each group are eligible to vote absentee without being registered. These voters may apply only by mail or by fax. Military personnel should contact the Voting Service Officers in their units for application forms and additional information. Residents of Oklahoma living overseas can obtain the same materials from any United States military installation and from United States Embassies and Consulates.

Grove City Attorney Resigns

2007-08-24T02:00:00.000-07:00

The City of Grove is without legal representation this week following the resignation Tuesday of City Attorney Ron Cates, who had been hired by former city manager Bill Galletly.

The resignation was prompted by the Agenda item on Tuesday's Council session: "Discussion and/or Action Regarding Request for Proposals for City Attorney Services."

Cates said he was not notified that this was being done and expressed his "utter amazement at the total absence of any semblance of professionalism, let alone common courtesy, on your part or that of the members of the City Council," in a steaming letter to Bruce Johnson, City Manager.

"I have represented numerous municipalities within the State of Oklahoma for more than 25 years and I have never witnessed such inconsiderate action," Cates said in his letter.
Councilman Larry Parham has in the past said he wants a local attorney to represent the city who won't charge mileage or travel time expenses. Cates' supporters said they prefer someone who is unbiased and can issue legal advice based on the law, not personal agendas of the councilors. Last month the city spent $349 on travel time and mileage reimbursement to Cates. He has charged $125 an hour for legal advice, considered low by most attorneys.

Johnson and Mayor Gary Bishop said they hoped Cates would apply for the position under the RFP formula designed by Johnson, with applications due by Sept. 11. Under the formula, points are awarded for experience and knowledge of state statutes and Grove Ordinances; the monthly retainer and hourly rate; professional qualifications and communications skills, total years experience, etc, and past performance record.

Here is the full text of Cates' resignation letter, obtained by The Observer:

Mr. Bruce Johnson
City Manager
City of Grove via facsimile (918) 786-8939
104 W. 3rd
Grove, Oklahoma 74344 Aug. 21, 2007

Re: Grove City Council Agenda-August 21, 2007-Item D.8-“Discussion And / Or Action
Regarding Request For Proposals For City Attorney Services

Dear Mr. Johnson:

I am corresponding for purposes of addressing the matter referenced above. At the outset, I am compelled to express my utter amazement at the total absence of any semblance of professionalism, let alone common courtesy, on your part or that of the members of the City Council in the consideration, initiation and posting of this matter. I have represented numerous municipalities within the State of Oklahoma for more than Twenty-five (25) years and I have never witnessed, let alone been directly affected by, such inconsiderate action. As you are keenly aware, there has been absolutely no communication or discussion between you and me concerning not only the placement of the referenced item on the agenda for the City Council meeting for August 21, 2007, but also any issues even remotely relating to such item. Likewise, I am sure that you are aware that the only discussion pertaining to this matter, that is discussion involving me, has been that brief moment Mayor Gary Bishop spent with me before the City Council regular scheduled meeting on August 7, 2007, wherein Mayor Bishop advised me that “not that I necessarily agree but the City Councilors want to make a change in City Attorney. They feel that you (meaning me of course) have too much political baggage with Bill Galletly having hired you and your having worked with him and others”. That, for the most part, excepting that” attorneys are always welcome in my church”, is it.

I find it very disconcerting that the agenda listing referenced above, as well as more importantly the documentation purportedly provided by you to the members of the City Council, is the obvious work of either one wishing to be an attorney but unlicensed to be such in the State of Oklahoma or an attorney licensed in the State of Oklahoma that has
unethically given legal advice to officials and officers with the City of Grove, Oklahoma on matters of legal importance to the City of Grove, Oklahoma. As you are aware, I am sure, although I was at the time the duly appointed and acting City Attorney, and except for Mayor Bishop’s brief mention as I stated above, I was neither informed of nor consulted by you or any member of the City Council concerning this issue. Additionally, please note that for the record, I am of the opinion that the purported legal advice is erroneous. However, this is a matter that is better addressed at a more appropriate time and in a more appropriate forum. As relates to the status of who provided the legal advice that is a matter that is better left for resolution with the General Counsel of the Oklahoma Bar Association.

As we are both abundantly aware, the matter before the City Council tonight is merely a pretense. First, the matter under consideration and the anticipated action is not within the authority of the City Council. Such actions lie within the purview of the office of the City Manager. Secondly, the process being employed is merely a pretext for accomplishing my removal from the service of the City and the placement of an attorney, regardless of municipal experience, who through act or omission is more likely to further the interests of the majority of the City Council. Regardless of what entity or individual possesses the power of appointment and removal not any one of you have expressed to me any concern or question regarding my legal and professional ability, my integrity or my willingness to perform and accomplish the lawful goals and objectives of my superiors on behalf of the citizens of the City of Grove, Oklahoma. Actually neither yourself or members of the City Council other than the Mayor have expressed to me anything regarding my representation of the City of Grove, Oklahoma, e.g., dependability and reliability of legal services, fees, etc. A reasonable person would perceive that as being most unusual. It is my opinion that there can be no question that a majority of the members of the City Council have long ago predetermined the outcome of this removal and appointment process. I likewise am of the opinion that a close examination of not only what you have done but of equal importance what you have not done in this matter amply supports the proposition that you have willingly facilitated the furtherance of these desires of a few.

It is unfortunate for many that for the sake of the few my professional services to the citizens of the City of Grove, Oklahoma are no longer required. A cursory review of the agenda as well as the supportive documentation coupled with the manner within which this action has occurred makes obvious that whomever the appointive authority may be, a matter upon which we disagree, neither desire any continuation of my rendering professional services any further. I have been able, ready and willing to perform the duties associated with my position with the City. However, your actions and omissions as well as those of certain members of the City Council have resulted in an impugning of my legal ability and standing as well as constructively discharging me from the service of the City of Grove, Oklahoma.

Based upon the foregoing you are hereby advised that as of 12:01 p.m. CST my professional services to the citizens of the City of Grove, Oklahoma ceased. But for assisting with a transition in regards to legal representation of the City of Grove, Oklahoma as well as trust authorities having the City of Grove, Oklahoma as beneficiary, I will not perform any legal services excepting those that would be urgently required to protect the interests of the citizens of Grove. Please have a representative of the City of Grove, Oklahoma, other than yourself or any seated City Council member contact me to make arrangements for transitioning the work of the City to another attorney.

Sincerely,
Ronald D. Cates
Attorney at Law

Cc: Mayor Gary Bishop, City of Grove, Oklahoma
Chairman Pete Churchwell, Grove Municipal Services Authority
Chairman David Adzigian, Grove Industrial Development Authority

Golf Course Developer Visits Grove

2007-08-24T01:45:00.000-07:00

Whose G5 Gulfstream flew into Grove Airport Tuesday, and for what reason? The $41 million aircraft owner purchased 1,500 gallons of Jet A fuel at $5-6,000 and needed half the airport runway to lift off. If you don't recognize the man on the left, it is Jack Nicklaus, shown with Councilman Larry Parham. Nicklaus was accompanied by several other folks. Nicklaus indicated he wanted to ride in Parham's Velocity airplane, but we still don't know what the reason was for Nicklaus' visit. How about a multi-million dollar golf course development with high rise hotel and condo's? Nicklaus Design has built 316 golf courses worldwide with another 54 under construction and 24 more planned for 2007, in 30 countries and 38 U.S. states. Stay tuned, as they say.

Library Manager Will Retire Aug. 31

2007-08-24T01:30:00.000-07:00

By Rose Stauber

Marcia Austin, Grove Public Library manager, will retire Aug. 31 after 25 years of service, the last 16 as manager.

Friends of the Grove Public Library are hosting an open house from 11
a.m. to 2 p.m. that day and invite everyone to come by to thank Marcia for
her service and wish her well.

The Grove Public Library began in 1964 in a small room in the
Community Center sponsored by the Grand Lake Business and Professional
Women's Club. In 1970 the library became a branch of the Eastern
Oklahoma District Library System. Marcia began working there in 1982. Three
times additions were built onto the space in the Community Center. Marcia
recalls the times that the books were moved and rearranged.

Marcia recalls the next move when the city moved GMSA from the building on Elk Street and relocated the library into the GMSA building with
about 5,000 square feet. On Nov. 1, 1991, Marcia took over as library manager.
Again, the growing library began squeezing into every usable space in the old
GMSA building, while during rains the water came down through roof leaks.
It was in this building that computers were added for checking books in and
out, and then for public use.

The inadequacies of the building fueled Marcia's campaign for a
new library. It took many visits to then City Manager Richard Ball and
much other help until the city council finally approved building a new
library in 2002. Marcia and Mary Williams organized Friends of the Library and
began the fund drive to raise the money needed to supplement what the city
could provide. The Wall of Honor in the library recognizes the donations of
all sizes that made it possible to build the library.

The new 10,300 square-foot library opened at 1140 NEO Loop Jan.
5, 2004. The books had been moved again. Marcia is remembered as
stating that she would retire before the library needed enlarging.
Marcia has directed the Grove Public Library through a growth
period which has more than doubled the monthly circulation of the
library from 4,000 items a month to 11,000 a month. She has brought into the
library large numbers of VHS tapes, DVDs, and music CDs.
The library has eight public computers and two children's computers. Marcia has paid special attention to the needs of children and young people. The unique design of the children's area, the decoration, and the materials had her personal care. The added space in the new building has made it possible for special summer programs and a pre-school program.

The genealogical collection is known throughout the region
as a great collection for a library in a city the size of Grove. The
Delaware County Genealogical Society supports the collection and works in
coordination with Marcia.

During the tax season, the library supports the IRS
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program which provides free tax service to
hundreds of qualified taxpayers. Marcia has welcomed and made accommodations to
continue this program.

Of her coming retirement, Marcia says that she plans to enjoy
time with her children and grandchildren and enjoy life "doing things I
haven't had time to do for 35 years." Some of her favorite activities
include watching her grandsons at their sporting events, quilting, and
traveling when the opportunity presents itself.

Candidates To Appear at Chamber Breakfast

2007-08-24T01:15:00.003-07:00

Candidates for Delaware County Commissioner – Billy Cornell and Janet Warford –
Perry will be the guest speakers at the Grove Area Chamber Eggs & Issues Breakfast.
The breakfast will be held on Friday, September 7, 7:30 a.m. at Cowskin Prairie
Restaurant and sponsored by Public Service Company of Oklahoma.
A Legislative Forum format will be followed with written questions taken from those
attending. The Chamber recognizes the importance of this upcoming election and wish to provide the voters with knowledge of the candidates to make an informed decision
regarding their votes.
The Chamber Connection Breakfast program is organized and hosted through the GACC’s Member Services and Legislative Action Committees.
Reservations may be made by calling the Grove Area Chamber of Commerce
(786-9079), or through email to grovecc@sbcglobal.net.
Deadline for reservations will be Wednesday, September 5th the cost is $8.00
for Chamber members and $9.00 for non-members.

Workers Leave Buzzard Cemetary In a Mess

2007-08-24T01:15:00.002-07:00

City grass crews have left Buzzard Cemetary awash with weeded grass. Mayor Gary Bishop and resident Bill Miller toured the area Wednesday morning to see if corrective action can be taken.

Observations...

2007-08-24T01:15:00.001-07:00

Grove City Council rejected 4-1 a request by Randall Fidler to rezone property at 9th and Grand from R-1 single family to R-3 multi-family, to build eight apartment units. Action came Tuesday night during the regular council meeting. The Grove Planning and Zoning Board had rejected the request 5-0 at last week's meeting, and in 2004, with a mostly different board. Mayor Gary Bishop said he was swayed by the citizen opposition to the project that appeared at the P&Z meeting...Council also appointed Tom Melton to the Airport Trust Authority Board to fill the seat vacated by Harry Halterman...GMSA selected OneOK as the natural gas supplier for the coming year, over two other suppliers, and turned down a request to mediate a $2400 gas bill last winter for Tim Langley, stating the full bill is due...There are 2364 students this year in Grove schools, and no city swimming pool...

Rotary Hosts New Grove School Principals

2007-08-24T01:15:00.000-07:00

New Grove Public School Principals and their assistants were guests of Grove Rotary this week. Pictured left to right are Theresa Morley, Middle School Assistant; Sandy Harper, Lower Elementary Principal; Julie Bloss, Early Childhood Principal; Shelley Barnes, Upper Elementary Principal; Renae Dozier, High School Principal; Pat Dodson, Middle School Principal; and Ed Sturgeon, High School Assistant

A Matter of Faith

2007-08-24T01:00:00.001-07:00

By Carol Round
The Road to Success

“Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.” Joshua 1:8 (NIV)

For 30 years, I was an Oklahoma public school teacher. Since my retirement two years ago, I have come to realize why I stayed for three decades—for the teenagers who shared their joys and sorrows and allowed me to become a part of their lives.

I became eligible for retirement at the end of 2004, which meant leaving in the middle of the school year. And even though you won’t find “retirement” mentioned in the Bible, I was ready to retire. I felt that after 30 years I was being led on a different path.

However, as the deadline approached to submit the necessary paperwork, I hesitated. I didn’t have the inner peace that comes when one knows that it is the right thing to do. One morning, I lifted up my concerns to the Lord. My simple prayer was “Heavenly Father, where can I best serve you?”

Immediately, I felt as if someone had lifted a backpack of rocks from my shoulders. My steps became lighter because I knew I didn’t have to struggle. God would show me the way.

Later that week, I had a conversation with a substitute teacher. She was a retiree, but had never substituted in the high school until that day. I mentioned my indecision about leaving at Christmas. When she replied with “Carol, you need to finish what you started,” I knew that God had provided my answer.

I started the second semester with excitement, not even counting the days until the last school bell rang. Two weeks before school ended, a student, struggling with decisions about the future, approached me with her concerns. She was lost. I understood. I had been in her shoes before I found the Lord.

During our conversation, I shared with Stephanie how God had changed me from the inside out. I also gave her a copy of “The Purpose Driven Life.” It was at that moment when I realized why God had wanted me to finish what I had started in August 1975.

My retirement check is not much but the rewards of being allowed to touch lives is something that money cannot buy. God crowns faithfulness even when the world has a different definition of success.

I like how Ralph Waldo Emerson’s defined success: “to laugh much; to win respect of intelligent persons and the affections of children; to earn the approbation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate beauty; to find the best in others; to give one's self; to leave the world a little better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch, or a redeemed social condition; to have played and laughed with enthusiasm, and sung with exultation; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived—this is to have succeeded."

What is your definition of success?

Check out A MATTER OF FAITH website at www.carolaround.com.

Music Festival Set for Labor Day Weekend

2007-08-24T01:00:00.000-07:00

The Jana Jae Fiddle Camp and Music Festival brings musicians and
entertainment to the Grand Lake area over Labor Day weekend. All events at
Snider's Camp, located just south of Grove on the beautiful bank of
Grand Lake O' the Cherokees, are free to the public with great food and
entertainment on Friday and Saturday nights. The food line opens at 7:00
p.m. with delicious barbeque on Friday night and a fish fry on Saturday
night, food is $5 a plate. Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy good food
and great entertainment and jammin'!!

The Amateur Fiddle Contest highlights the evening on Saturday and is
always great fun for all. For those not enrolled in the Fiddle Camp,
registration for this contest is $5 with cash awards going to the top
three winners in six divisions.

Daytime fiddle workshops will be held at the Grove Civic Center on
Saturday and Sunday from
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Students can enroll at the Civic Center at 9:00
a.m. Fiddle instructors will demonstrate and teach various music styles
including Celtic, old-time, bluegrass and contest. There will be other
very interesting and entertaining sessions as the participants learn to
play in jams, put on a successful performance, compete in contests,
handle stage fright, play harmony for twin or triple fiddles and much
more. In addition to the fiddle workshops there will be a mandolin
workshop and guitar workshop on Saturday at 12:30. All participants will be
featured in the Fiddle Camp finale on Sunday afternoon at 3:30 p.m. at
the Civic Center. There is an enrollment fee for the workshops but
the public is invited to the entertainment with free admission.

This Festival is made possible by volunteers of Grand Lake Festivals,
Inc., many local and area sponsors, the area media, with the assistance
of the Oklahoma Arts Council and the National Endowment for the Arts
and is a special event as the work of learning becomes fun as the
participants share their talents with each other and the spectators. Held at
the Grove Civic Center Sat. and Sun., Sept. 1 and 2, and at Snider's
Camp Fri. and Sat. evenings, Aug. 31 and Sept. 1
Call 918-786-8896 for information or visit www.grandlakefestivals.com

Schedule of Events -
Jana Jae Fiddle Camp & Music Fest - August 31, September 1 & 2, 2007
Special entertainment at various times throughout the weekend. Bring
lawn chairs to Snider's Camp.

FRIDAY, August 31 - at Snider's Camp - Free Admission
7:00 p.m. Barbecue Dinner ($5 a plate), Kick-off Party & Entertainment
Jam with old & new friends--enjoy!

SATURDAY, Sept. 1 - at Grove Civic Center
9:00 a.m. Registration
10:00-4:00 p.m. Group sessions
with Master demonstrations
and Group performances
12:30 Guitar & Mandolin Workshop

SATURDAY, Sept 1 - at Snider's Camp - Free Admission
7:00 p.m. Fish Fry Dinner - $5
Special Entertainment
8:00 p.m. AMATEUR FIDDLE CONTEST
10:00 p.m. Jamming

SUNDAY, Sept. 2 - at Grove Civic Center
10:00-4:00 p.m. Group sessions
with Master demonstrations
and Group Performances
3:30 p.m. Farewell Jam

8/8/07 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FROM: Kathleen Pixley, Grand Lake Festivals, Grove, OK --
918-786-8896, 800-526-2523
www.grandlakefestivals.com

Council to Discuss City Attorney Issue

2007-08-17T02:20:00.000-07:00

Grove City Council will take up the matter of "discussion and or action regarding request for proposals for city attorney services" at its Tuesday night meeting, to begin at 6 p.m. in City Hall.
Ron Cates, currrent city attorney, was hired by the previous city manager, Bill Galletly, and lives in Owasso. Councilman Larry Parham has indicated he wants to hire someone locally, who would not charge for mileage and bill for travel time hours; however Cates is generally regarded as one of the finest city attorney's in the state with his years of experience in Municipal Law.

Cornell to Face Perry Sept. 11 for Commissioner Post

2007-08-17T02:00:00.000-07:00

Billy Cornell won Tuesday's Democrat Primary race for County Commissioner District 2, Delaware County, and will face Republican Janet Warford-Perry on Sept. 11. The winner will fill the position left by the late commissioner Howard Payton.
Cornell received 358 votes; his nearest challenger was Wayne Dunham, Jay Mayor, with 218 votes.
Other unofficial results from the Delaware County Election Board are:
James Brown--46
Price Coble--115
Jamie Earp--89
Larry Gullett--132
Curtis Larmon--65
Ballots are expected to be certified by Friday. A total of 1023 votes were cast which was considered a "light" vote.
Cornell was a contract mower for District 2 for three years and put roads and courthouse operations including finances as a priority.
The three commissioners oversee an annual county budget of $4.1 million.

An Editorial...Blackmail, Extortion, Defamation and Censorship

2007-08-17T01:55:00.000-07:00

Grove has lately become home to a few citizens who want to censor the news. Let us say at the outset that we are not going to be blackmailed, extorted, or allow defamation of character to stop us from printing the truth. Since we have no advertisers we cannot be threatened with loss of advertising and since we have no revenue there is none to lose. All the various "clans" around town can do is keep others from hiring your editor as a paid reporter or editor, and they have surely been successful at that. This week it was the Hospital Clan, complaining about a story on last week's blog; last winter it was the Airport Clan, warning about loss of advertising. In any case, Grove is no place for Spineless Publishers.

In the movie "A Few Good Men," Jack Nicholson shouts "You Can't Handle the Truth, Son." Jack should pay a visit to Grove; he could find plenty of people at which to shout that line.

Some feel that a small town such as Grove cannot have a newspaper that prints all the news, even the unpleasant, since advertisers can be so easily threatened and the newspaper's revenue stream shut down. The public is the real loser. Your editor's problem is the perceived news "slant" towards the previous city administration on this blog. Actually, we really did try to tell the truth, including wrongdoings when we found them.

In any case, here are a few tactics to stop the flow of news:

1. Threaten the newspaper with loss of advertising. Newspapers cannot operate without advertising revenue so cutting this off will put a newspaper out of business in a hurry.

2. One newspaper can threaten its own advertisers with a hike in rates if they advertise in a competing newspaper, or even refuse to run their ads.

3. Blackmail. "If you hire someone we don't like, that speaks the truth, or if you print the truth, we'll stop our advertising and encourage others to do likewise."

4. Defamation of character. "We'll put out lies and make accusations that will cause you to withdraw job offers to anyone who writes the truth."

5. Censorship. This is a self-defeating tactic but practiced here anyway. Just limit your news releases to those publications you like, not necessarily the publications with the most readership. This is also known as cutting off your nose to spite your face.

It seems to us that if you want a cool $1 million in taxpayer dollars to build a new hospital, you would crank up the PR machine, not tell an editor off.

It is interesting that some people say they never read The Observer, but they can quote from it.

Our Constitution recognizes a free press and the public's right to know, and we intend to stick around and do our job, even in the face of the local censors, blackmailers, extortionists, and defamers of character.

Grove Chamber Takes Survey on New Casino

2007-08-17T01:15:00.003-07:00

The Grove Area Chamber of Commerce recently conducted a phone poll to determine the
climate of its members regarding the proposed casino in Grove to be located on Hwy 59.

Of the 403 GACC members, 219 responded to the survey.
Grove Chamber members were asked if the casino would bring more shoppers to Grove,
70% of the respondents stated that yes the community would see an increase in shoppers while 30% did not foresee an increase.

The second question asked members to project the impact they felt the casino would have on their particular business. 43% feel the casino would have a positive impact on their business, 39% feel the casino would have no impact on their business, and 18% feel they would incur a negative impact.

Grove Chamber members were asked to project the impact the proposed casino would
have on commercial property values in Grove. 62% feel a casino will have a positive
impact on commercial property values, 19% feel it would have no impact on commercial
property values, and 19% feel a negative impact would be realized by commercial
property values.

Requested to set aside personal feelings regarding gambling, Grove Chamber members were asked if the proposed casino would have a positive, negative or no impact on the community as a whole. 49% feel the Casino would have a positive impact on the community, 17% feel no impact would be incurred by the community, and 34% feel the community would experience a negative impact.

The last question of the phone survey polled members about the infrastructure needs of the casino project. The Grove Area Chamber Board of Directors determined however that survey results could be somewhat challenged because chamber members were asked to respond to a question in which many respondents held differing ideas, and in many cases no idea, of the meaning of the term infrastructure and were uninformed about the actual infrastructure needs of the proposed casino.

In the question, chamber members were asked if the City of Grove should or should not provide the infrastructure for the proposed casino. While conducting the surveys, pollsters received a large number of responses from members that infrastructure costs should be shared by the casino and the City of Grove. Respondents however were given a choice of yes or no; the city should or should not provide the infrastructure. The survey was not prepared for a third response of a joint sharing of the cost. Consequently, for Chamber members who feel the cost should be a joint liability, their responses were tallied as a no response - that the city should not pay the cost.

Although the question was determined to be invalid, the chamber board decided to publish the results of the entire survey. 40% of chamber members feel the City of Grove should provide infrastructure and 60% feel the casino should be liable for all infrastructure costs of the proposed project.

The Chamber would like to thank the board members that volunteered their time to contact the membership and also thank those that participated in the poll.

If you have any questions as to how the poll was conducted, please feel free to contact Lisa Friden at the Chamber office at (786-9079) or through email to lisafriden@sbcglobal.net.

The Photo Page...

2007-08-17T01:15:00.002-07:00

Top: Duane and June Heitzman celebrate their 50th Wedding Anniversary at a reception at Meghan Coves; Center, Grove's Early Learning Center in finishing stages; Bottom, while golfers were out in the sun, these horses have enough sense to find shade. The next day they were gone, replaced with black angus cattle.

No Millet Seeding this Year, Says GRDA

2007-08-17T01:15:00.001-07:00

Because of one of the wettest summers in state history, the annual Grand Lake millet seeding project will not take place next month. In fact, the Grand River Dam Authority has announced that the project, which usually takes place in September when Grand Lake is dropped to an elevation 741 feet to expose mudflat areas for seeding, will not happen this year, because of the lingering effects of June and July rainfalls.
“The combination of heavy, and historic, rainfalls in recent months and the current level of Grand Lake would make it very difficult to have a successful seeding project this year,” said GRDA Chief Executive Officer Kevin Easley. “We’ve informed the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission of this and plan to store millet for use at a later time.”
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) is the federal agency with oversight of the nation’s hydroelectric projects. GRDA operates Pensacola Dam and Grand Lake under a 30-year hydropower license issued by FERC in the early 1990s. The annual millet seeding project, which began in 1994, is a requirement of that license.
Operating under FERC’s rule curve for Grand Lake elevations, GRDA typically begins dropping the lake level in early August to reach the 741 foot mark by September 1, to facilitate the seeding project. However, because of the flood events and heavy inflows into the Grand River in June and July, Grand Lake has been under the control of the United States Army Corps of Engineers for much of the summer, and will remain so until the elevation goes below 745 feet. As of press time, Grand was still above 746 feet. With the Army Corps periodically curtailing releases from Pensacola Dam to prevent downstream flooding, Grand Lake’s elevation would still be too high for millet seeding in September.
“GRDA follows FERC’s rule curve for Grand Lake elevations unless it goes above 745 feet, as it is now. After that, the Army Corps directs all release operations,” said Easley, adding that GRDA has been in daily contact with Army Corps during recent flooding events. “Normally, the federal government, through these two agencies, has a lot of influence over the elevation of Grand Lake. Unfortunately this year, Mother Nature had a lot to say about that as well.”
Oklahoma historical weather records prove that point. According to the Oklahoma Climatological Survey, July and August 2007 has been the fifth wettest period for Northeast Oklahoma since 1921. As for June, normal statewide average rainfall is 4.26 inches. In June 2007, that figure jumped to nearly 8.6 inches.
“It’s these forces beyond our control that have put the 2007 seeding project on hold,” said Easley.

Observations...

2007-08-17T01:15:00.000-07:00

Observations…

Two names have been submitted to serve on the Airport Trust Authority Board, Tom Melton, and Berwin Kock, both pilots, to fill the vacancy created by the departure of Harry Halterman from the board, said Terry Abercrombie, Airport Manager. The Mayor will make the decision shortly…Paparazzi's Restaurant on Honey Creek is closing Sept. 4, said Carolyn Harris, owner, who has sold the three acres of property to Chuck & Victoria Perry for a condo development. Carolyn will move to Norman to join her husband, who works in OKC for the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority in information technology. Gee, this is the third restaurant that has closed recently in Grove, where are we going to eat?...Grove's Planning & Zoning Board turned down 5-0 a request by Randall Fidler to rezone property at 9th & Grand from R-1 Single Family Residential to R-3 Multi-Family Residential. Several residents voiced opposition to the project to build eight apartment units on the corner, in a neighborhood of single family homes…Former City Manager Bill Galletly's appeal on his bid-splitting conviction will be heard Sept. 23 in OKC before the State Court of Criminal Appeals…

Grove Beginnings...Part 12

2007-08-17T01:02:00.000-07:00

Election Coming

By Rose Stauber

The serious stuff that would lead to Oklahoma actually becoming a
state and stop being two territories began in 1906. Congress had passed a law
stating what had to be done before statehood. The key element was that the
state had to have a constitution written by elected delegates of the people.

Nominees for the delegates to the constitutional convention were made
on party lines, Democratic and Republican, just like now. The election of
delegates was held Nov. 4, 1906, falling right into the big gap in the
surviving copies of the Grove Sun so we have no reporting on local
events.
For whatever reason, the administration in Washington at the time was
Republican, or just the way it was, the elected delegates included 99
Democrats, 12 Republicans, and one Democrat elected as an Independent.

The Constitutional Convention convened Nov. 20, 1906, and worked for
months. The delegates eventually came out with a preliminary report.
This called for an election to be set for Sept. 17, 1907, at which voters
would face four matters:

1. For or against state-wide prohibition, meaning yes or no on
liquor.
2. For or against adoption of the constitution.
3. Vote on state, district, and county officers.
4. Vote on township officers and representatives to Congress.

The local parties went into high gear. Both Democrats and Republicans

organized and elected precinct members, and delegates to their party's
state
conventions. The July 12, 1907, Grove Sun is full of the goings-on.
Note
that these activities were carried on using the boundaries of what
would be Delaware County.

This might be a good time to explain the political townships in
Delaware County. Political townships have nothing to do with geographic
townships which are laid out by the U.S. Geographical Survey. All counties have
townships, except Louisiana which has parishes, which are political
subdivisions and generally speaking, these townships are named, such as

Prairie Township, etc. Not in Delaware County. The political
townships are numbered, always have been. Take an outline of Delaware County, draw a line straight down the middle. Now draw two east-west lines dividing the
area into six about equal parts. Beginning at the southwest corner of the
county, number the townships beginning with 1 and 2 in the south, 3 and
4 in the middle, and 5 and 6 in the north. Grove sits on the western edge
of Twp. 6. and is mostly located in geographic Twp. 24 Range 24. Each
political township in Delaware County has about four geographic
townships.

Just to throw in a bit more of what happened during the process. As
first laid out, all of the four townships 25 across the top of the county
were in Delaware County. Ottawa County apparently raised enough ruckus that
the top row of sections in those townships were taken from Delaware County and
assigned to Ottawa County. Officers to be elected in each township
included a trustee, a clerk, treasurer, justices of the peace, and constables.

The Grove Sun of July 12, 1907, carries the ticket for the Democrats
elected at the primary June 8, 1907. The nominees were: for U.S.
Senator, Col. Robert L. Owen and T.P. Gore: for Governor, C.N. Haskell; for
State Senator, W.H. Doherty; Judge First District, John N. Pitchford; Justice
Supreme Court, John B. Turner; Congress Third District, Jas. S.
Davenport; Railway and Corporation Commissioner, JJ. McAlester; Representative,
Delaware County, Capt. L. B. Smith; County Judge, Wilson N. Smith;
County Attorney, Ad V. Coppedge; Clerk District Court, Geo. A. Cox; County
Clerk, Ed West; County Treasurer, T.J. Williams; County Sheriff, G. W. Hogan;

County Surveyor, D.A. Smith; County Commissioner, No. 3, T.T. Rogers;
Trustee, No. 3, C.W. Foley; Constable, Twp. 24-24, C.L. Merrill.

The county Republicans met with James P. Butler as chairman and
proceeded to elect delegates to the Republican state and congressional
conventions. T.S. Remsen was the Grove delegate to the state convention.

Capt. L. B. Smith, Democratic nominee for state representative, lived
on the Line Road, the road out on Cowskin Prairie that separated Missouri
from the Territory. He had served from Georgia in the Civil War, and
probably the title, "Captain," was no more correct that when applied to T.S.
Remsen. L.B. Smith may have served as a lieutenant. Retired soldiers seemed
to acquire these honorary titles. However, L.B. Smith was another leader.
A white, he married Florence Perry, a Cherokee, and they came west soon
after the Civil War with both his and her parents. He taught school in
Southwest City for a time, then went into farming, and later established
Fairland. He was elected to the Cherokee Nation Council before becoming the first
representative from Delaware County to the Oklahoma legislature.

The next step in this process will be the state-wide election Sept.
17. Watch this space for full information on election results.

Meanwhile, a few notes of interest:

"The new circle seats for the M.E. Church of this city, were received
Monday and duly installed during the week. The ladies of that place of
worship united and put in the day Monday cleaning the interior part of
the church, and from now on it will be a $5 fine for anyone to spit upon
the floor."

"I. Goodwin, the contractor, has completed concrete walk in front of
Forbes Med. Co., and we confess that is the hot stuff. The appearance
of that corner now looms up like a morning star, and we are anxious to see
more of these concrete walks constructed in this city."

"The dog owners of Grove are hereby notified that the dog tax is past
due."

Copyright ©1907 Rose Stauber

A Matter of Faith...

2007-08-17T01:00:00.003-07:00

By Carol Round

When Your Crayon Breaks

“He restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.”
Psalm 23:3 (NIV)

This time of year, I love walking through a department store’s school supplies section. When the shelves are fully stocked, I find myself wandering down the aisle, wishing I were going back to school. For 43 years, I did—if you count my 30 years of teaching.

I associate a school year with newness, an opportunity to start fresh. There’s nothing like opening a new box of crayons. So many different colors from which to choose, even more today than when I was a child. The paper wrapped around each slim cylinder sports names like periwinkle, burnt sienna, maize and thistle. I still favor the original colors: red, blue, yellow, green, brown, black, purple and orange.

For some unknown reason, young children like to peel the paper from the crayon stick. Recently, I observed my grandchildren as they sat quietly on the floor coloring in one of the many books I have purchased for them. My granddaughter, who is 19 months older than her brother, became upset when he started removing the wrapping from a yellow crayon.

“Stop it, Brennan,” she ordered in her best bossy big-sister voice.

Brennan just kept peeling away. After one more order from his sister to cease and desist, Brennan retaliated by snapping the crayon in two. His sister was not happy.

“Nana,” she yelled, “Brennan is breaking the crayons.”

She didn’t realize that I had been quietly observing the unfolding scene and was prepared to intervene. However, before I could respond, Brennan said, “I’m sorry, Hi-Anne.”

His two-year-old vocabulary, while very sophisticated for his age, cannot quite enunciate the syllables needed to pronounce “Cheyenne.” I watched as Brennan tried to restore the crayon to its original glory. He pushed the two pieces of yellow together, determined to make them whole again. Frustrated, he kept pushing until another piece broke off. He finally realized that it was beyond his capability to fix the crayon. Looking up at me, he said, “Nana can fix it.”

While I explained to my grandson that I could not restore the yellow crayon to wholeness, it made me realize how often in life we make a mess of things and try to fix it on our own. No matter how determined we are to fix something that is broken, especially relationships, we cannot make them whole without help.

I know the ultimate healer of brokenness. He may not restore our crayons, but He can restore people. I remember a song from my youth. The words go something like this, “Only love can break a heart, only love can mend it again.”

When Jesus walked the earth, He spent time in healing and teaching. His motive? Love.

When we turn to the healer of broken hearts and broken lives, He can restore us. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for He is with me. His rod and His staff bring comfort.

A collection of Carol Round’s most popular faith-based columns is now available in book form. For more information, readers can reach her at carolaround@yahoo.com

YMCA Luau is Saturday

2007-08-17T01:00:00.002-07:00

To help families celebrate the beginning of the 2007/2008 school year, the Grand Lake Family YMCA is co-sponsoring a “Back to School” Luau” this coming Saturday, August 18.
The Luau that will be held at Rotary Park in Grove (across the street from the Post Office) from noon to 3:00 pm. Planned events include games, water slides, music, races and prizes. Food and refreshments will be served from noon until 1 pm.
The event is being co-sponsored by the YMCA and the Grove Parent Teacher Organization (PTO).
“Bring the whole family for this fun time,” said Butch Christy, YMCA director. “And make sure you bring bathing suits – it’s going to be a wet and fun time!”
For more information contact the YMCA at (918) 786-5774 or drop by the facility at 206 Elk in Grove right behind Pizza Hut.

Genealogical Society Sets Meeting Aug. 21

2007-08-17T01:00:00.001-07:00

The monthly meeting of the Delaware County Genealogical Society will be held on at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 21, at the Grove Public Library. The speaker will be Carrie Ann Cook, Vice-President of the Gregath Publishing Company, Wyandotte , and Webmaster to assorted sites.
Carrie is a published author, illustrator and free-lance photographer. She has served the Miami Public Library as its Genealogy and Local History Specialist. Carrie will speak on “Barnstorming with Brainstorming”, which will outline the rules that make brainstorming work well and why they are important.
Carrie is a member of the Association of Professional Genealogists, Genealogical Speakers Guild, Federation of Genealogical Societies, National Genealogical Society and Mid-America Speakers, and others. She is in demand for various genealogical and historical programs.
Refreshments will be served. The meetings are open to the public and anyone interested in their family history.

Council Has Quick, Routine Meeting

2007-08-10T08:48:00.000-07:00

The Grove City Council meeting this week was quick and routine, with councilors approving a new appointee to the Grove Industrial Development Authority Board, dissolving the Blue Ribbon Committee which assisted council on the new aquatic park and civic center project, and approval of closing 18th Street from Broadway to Main for REC Day Sept. 15.

Don Nelson of Grove was appointed by council to GIDA; he spent 35 years with SBC and eight years with the Oklahoma Tax Commission. There were a total of four persons that applied for the open position, which fills the spot left by the resignation of Terry Ryan last month.

At the request of the Blue Ribbon Committee, it was dissolved with the thanks of the council, having completed its work on a new swimming pool and new community center to replace the old Civic Center on Main Street. The committee recommended the building of a "no-frills" pool costing about $3 million; and purchasing the Cornerstone Church with additions, and selling the old Civic Center.
(see related story..."After the Blue Ribbon Committee.")

Council also approved Grand Gateway's proposal to relocate the Pelivan Transit Dispatch Center to the Grove Senior Citizen's Center at 145 East O'Daniel Parkway.

Councilman Terry Ryan brought up the fact that former police chief Ivan Devitt's severance check did not come before Council, similar to the moving expenses being paid by the city for the new Planning & Zoning Director, an issue which was questionned by Council at one of its meetings noting the authority of the city manager, at that time Bill Galletly, to write checks without council approval.
Ryan said it was unfair to complain about one check, and not another, depending on who the city manager was at the time.

Grove Hospital Trust OK's $1 Million Request

2007-08-10T02:15:00.000-07:00

Members of the Grove Healthcare Trust Authority approved a resolution to support the building campaign of a new $56 million hospital, by committing $1 million from the city, payable over a five-year period at $200,000 per year. The measure will now go to the Grove City Council for action.
The first payment would be made by Dec. 31, 2007, with the final payment Dec. 31, 2011. "In-kind" donations by the city such as utility services would be deducted from the $1 million cash donated by the city.
Greg Martin, Integris Grove Hospital President, told members of the trust authority the hospital would like to have a total of $5 million in local committments by December or January. He said that the total committed to date is "more than halfway there."
The new hospital will be state of the art, replacing the current 43-year-old facility, with all-private patient rooms and amenities, more surgical facilities, additional physicians, and a new emergency department with additional treatment rooms.
Integris Grove currently employs approximately 350 people with an economic imnpact for the city of more than $12 million annually; more than $1.8 million each year is returned to the community in the form of charity care, would would amount to more than $9 million over the five years of city contributions.
HKS Architects, headquartered in Dallas, is designing the new facility. Among its clients are the new Dallas Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Tx; the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston; Seattle Childrens Hospital; George Washington University Hospital; the AA Center in Dallas, Los Ventanos in Los Cabos; J.C. Penny Headquarters in Frisco, Tx; and The Beacon Development in San Francisco.
The firm has offices in 12 cities including Oklahoma City.
The new building will face 18th Street in Grove. A request to hospital officials for a photo of the renderings was refused.

After the Blue Ribbon Committee...What's Next?

2007-08-10T02:00:00.001-07:00

(Editors Note: We sat down with Councilman Larry Parham for a three-hour interview this week, to learn one councilman's reaction to the Blue Ribbon Committee's report on a new swimming pool and new community center, and what will be done. Here is some of what we learned)

--On building a new swimming pool: "I want one; I hope we can get it built next year, and at a cost of $1-1.5 million, not $3 million as reported by the Committee. I would like to see it built out East near the Rotary Park and other park facilities. It will be a simple no-frills pool, one that can be expanded as time goes on. We need a new pool; the old pool in the State Park is something that is outdated. I would think the city could find the funds now to build it."

--On selling the current Civic Center: "I will not support a vote on selling the Civic Center at this time because we don't yet know the true cost of replacing it. The devil is in the details." Parham says the numbers presented in the Committee report are seriously underestimated and the true cost of doing what the Committee recommends would damage the city, to a tune of a $17.1 million deficit... He is opposed to buying the Cornerstone Church and instead suggested a different route if the money is available: Sell only the parking lot at the existing Center, update and overhaul the current Center, buy land north of the Center for expansion with an auditorium and small meeting rooms, and enlarge the parking area to the north. The old parking lot could be sold to a developer for construction of a small strip center and new restaurants.

--If an ad valorum tax is passed to build a $10 million community center, it would cost homeowners $170 per $100,000 real valuation every year for 20 years, and he opposes that. There has to be another way, he said "but if the citizens want it that is what we will do."

--He said new city manager Bruce Johnson is working on a new Five-Year Plan that will outline the city's needs in order of importance, which Parham said could include expansion of the wastewater treatment plant and water treatment plant, new community center, new swimming pool, road and street resurfacing, water meter replacement program, and more. "We have to get our priorities straight," he said.

Parham said he appreciated the hard work the Committee put into its study and recommendations but some of the numbers were incorrect. But first, he said "we need to stop giving away rentals for the Civic Center. We need some cash flow to at least pay some of the operating costs."

He said the Committee errored in its estimate of cost to build a 50,000 square foot tip up concrete facility adjacent to the Cornerstone Church…"they left out costs for electricity, plumbing, security and other details," he said. He said the true cost of purchasing the church would work out to $2,085,000 instead of $1,835, 000. "We can't get loans for 40 years, which the Committee said; the maximum is 20 years on a new pool; the widening of 18th Street from Broadway to Main was not included, which would cost $500,000.
The church additions cannot be built for $30 per square foot, which is what the Committee estimated, he said, and the total cost to finance the church purchase and additions would come to $5,834,000 instead of $5,584,000 with the net purchase price of the church being $2,805,000 instead of $1.835, 000.

Parham has spent days analyzing the numbers and has pages of figures to prove them.

He says we would have an annual payment of $462,000 at 5% interest over 20 years, for the church purchase and additions, instead of $359,713 at 5% over 30 years, with a total of principal and interest of $9,240,436 over 20 years. "Do we really want to spend that much money?" he asks.
He also disputes that income from the new community center would cover utilities, housekeeping and minor maintenance repairs, calling that "a stretch."

"My number one issue with the Committee's report is the Committee's estimates on cannibalization of other retailers, estimated by the Committee at 65%. It should be 90%, meaning only 10% new business from the stores in the old Center area. "The math does not work," Parham said.

On the pool portion of the Committee's report, he said the shortage to the city budget in paying for a new pool could be as much as $669,588 instead of $94,241, since the pool cannot be financed for 40 years. Actual principal and interest at 20 years would be $237,576 instead of $152,704 and we would have a loss on the new pool as well.

Parham says ultimately the flaws in the figures make it impossible to proceed at this time with the Committee recommendations, although he says he definitely wants a new pool and new community meeting facilities.

The city has now spent more than $100,000 in outside consultant studies on the civic center and swimming pool issues, plus the 10 months work by the Blue Ribbon Committee.

Guide for Selecting a County Commissioner

2007-08-10T02:00:00.000-07:00

The County Commissioner election for District 2 is next Tuesday (Democratic Primary) and seven candidates are running. Do you know who would make the best commissioner? The following guide may be helpful:
What kind of background do I need to run for county commissioner?

County commissioners in Oklahoma come from a variety of backgrounds. Teachers, farmers, ranchers, and business people have all been elected county commissioners. No particular job experience or education is known to be the best preparation for success as commissioner. Familiarity with some aspects of road construction, budgeting, personnel management, communications, and the law can be useful. But no one expects a commissioner to be expert in every facet of the job.
Once elected, county commissioners and other newly elected county officers are requested, prior to taking office in January, to attend two-day orientation training program conducted by the Association of County Commissioners in order to become familiar with the job. In addition, the legal aspects of hiring and firing will be discussed during this orientation program.
What are the duties and responsibilities of a county commissioner?
County commissioners exercise the administrative powers given to them by the Oklahoma Statutes and the Oklahoma Constitution. County Commissioners:
• The governing body of the courthouse
• Exercise direct control over the county highway system
• Audit the accounts of all officers handling county money
• Make general financial plans for the county including the county budget
• Audit and approve claims against the county
• Issue calls for bond elections and other special elections
• Organize and direct "911" services
• Approve the county payroll
• Approve bids for major purchases or construction projects
• Develop personnel policies for the county
• Responsible for appointments to various county boards and positions
• Supervise affairs in small communities
• Organize solid waste management districts
• Selling or purchasing public land or buildings for the county
• Responsible for improving efficiency of county government.
What is the make-up of county government?
There are 77 counties in the State of Oklahoma. Counties and county government are created by the Constitution of Oklahoma. Counties are a subdivision of state government. The powers it exercises are primarily delegated by the State as a quasi municipal corporation.
All the county officials are elected to staggered four year terms except for the Election Board Secretary who is appointed by the local state senator. Counties are made up of the following elected officials:
District 1, 2, and 3 County Commissioners
County Assessor - Have the duty and responsibility to determine the true worth of real and personal property for the purpose of taxation.
County Clerk - Functions as the custodian of records for the county, acts as registrar of deeds, and acts as the county’s purchasing agent.
County Court Clerk - Maintains all proceedings of the Court of Record in the county.
County Treasurer - Acts as the tax collector and banker for the county.
County Sheriff - Preserves the peace and protects life and property and suppress’ all unlawful disturbances.
What are some of the big problems facing county government today?
Mandates
A new county commissioner taking office may discover that many decisions affecting his or her term have already been made. State and federal law mandates many of the activities of county government. Often, local government mandates are passed without funding by state and federal lawmakers. Some examples of unfunded mandates are those setting requirements for waste management, treatment of prisoners, providing disabled citizens with easy access to government buildings, drug and alcohol testing for commercial drivers license holders, environmental requirements for road and bridge projects, and training for various personnel.
So, before promising to eliminate this program or that program, make sure it is not legally mandated by the federal or state government.
General Fund Revenue Sources
Paying the bill for mandates is just part of a bigger challenge that commissioners face-raising the revenue to pay for all the services that county government performs. Citizens these days expect government to deliver more and better services to meet the needs of growing and changing populations, but they aren’t enthusiastic about paying the bill. Increasing taxes in any way is never popular.
Counties in Oklahoma are looking at ways to spread the tax burden by expanding their sources or revenue or finding new ones to keep up with increasing demands. Oklahoma law limits the county general fund from receiving more than 10 mills of the counties ad valorem dollars. The general fund is used to pay the administrative expenses of county government and is the primary source of funding for the courthouse offices and the sheriffs office. This limitation requires commissioners to find ways to conduct county business more efficiently and to eliminate any waste so that tax dollars are spent wisely. However, many counties in Oklahoma must find other tax bases such as county-wide sales taxes to adequately fund courthouse operating expenses.
County Road Revenue Sources
County commissioners receive road funds primarily from the state and federal fuel taxes, motor vehicle excise taxes and gross production taxes. County commissioners are responsible for 86,820 miles of road and 15,000 bridges that are 20 feet or longer. Local and federal funds replace 100 bridges that are 20 feet or longer per year in Oklahoma. Road funds are divided up among all 77 counties based on a formula which considers the number of bridges in each county, population, road miles and terrain. County road funds have not grown with inflation since the "oil bust" in the 1980’s. With the rising cost of construction equipment and materials, county road funds must be planned, prioritized and stretched in order to adequately maintain county roads and bridges.
Liability
Being held personally responsible for official actions is a matter of great concern to anyone seeking public office. Sometimes, county officials have had to learn the hard way-being sued, for instance-that they may be held accountable personally for injuries resulting from enforcing county policies or customs (for example wrongful termination) when they are carried out in good faith! The good news is that when proper procedures are followed, the likelihood of public officials successfully defending such liability suits is excellent.
A good approach to minimize this problem is to learn the basic procedures for reducing or eliminating the possibility of successful suits against the county or its officials. The Association of County Commissioners of Oklahoma (ACCO) provide opportunities to attend workshops on the subject. Written materials are available, too. Legal advice from the District Attorney, ACCO staff, and attorneys representing the ACCO insurance programs plays a key role.
How will I spend my day if I’m elected to be a county commissioner?
Some people say that being a county commissioner is a 24-hour-a-day job, not because you need to work at it for 24 hours each day, but because you are "on call" at all hours. Some parts of the job are more time-consuming than others.
Talking with constituents is a big part of the job. They may call you at home hoping to influence you in an upcoming bridge or road project, collar you at the local hardware store or at a local restaurant to complain about potholes in their road, or expect you to help them solve a drainage problem in front of their house on a Sunday afternoon. You will soon learn that on controversial issues you seldom hear from supporters but are certain to hear from opponents. As an elected representative you have to make a decision that is in the best interests of the entire county.
To be effective and make good decisions, a commissioner needs information. Gathering information requires time. Regardless of what sources you choose, you can be sure that gathering reliable information will take a good chunk of your time.
Attending meetings will take time, too. Your schedule will have to allow time for regular board meetings, work sessions, executive sessions, special meetings, budget meetings and public hearings. Also, as an elected official, you will be expected at many unofficial gatherings-from pancake breakfasts to fish fries.
Your life will be much easier if you are communicating with other county officials. Making the effort to know other county officials and their operations is worth the time. These relationships will help you get things done and provide knowledgeable leadership. You have to approve the budget for all these offices, and knowledge of their functions and responsibilities will help you in your decision making.
Communicating with and educating your constituents will be a high priority. Time will be spent on working through the local newspaper, public hearings or gatherings, maybe even a newsletter to make sure the public knows what you are doing and why. For example, often the public doesn’t understand state and federal road and bridge programs and funding formulas, and part of your job will be to explain what these programs mean.
How much time does it take to be a county commissioner?
This is a question that many people new to the office wish they had asked before they ran. For most commissioners other than the chairman of the board, a majority of the time is spent in the road districts. The chairman of the board spends more time working at the courthouse solving administrative duties than the other two commissioners and must rely more on their county road foreman to carry out supervisory duties in the road district.
The number of hours per day or week varies widely, depending on a county’s size and demand for services. One thing is certain. Those first six months in office will be a period of adjustment-getting acquainted, learning purchasing laws, road fund accounts, general fund budgeting, as well as day-to-day road maintenance, and learning how to juggle all the new activity in the context of family and job demands.
Why would anyone want to be a county commissioner?
Of the different levels of government, local government has the most immediate affect on people’s lives because it is so close to where they live. Also, citizens are apt to participate more directly in local government because their elected officials are so readily accessible. Being a county commissioner provides an opportunity to deal with people’s most immediate problems, which are often the ones that affect everyone. And sometimes just providing individual constituent service, such as regularly grading their road, can be rewarding. A commissioner who does a good job provides a true public service and is a leader in the community.
Sometimes people run for office for all the wrong reasons. For example, they have one personal gripe that they want to do something about. Or they are out to make county personnel changes based on personal dissatisfaction rather than on professional evaluation of employee performance. They don’t seem to be very interested in the "public good." After getting elected, they may be disappointed to find that getting what they want is not as easy as they thought. Budget constraints, federal and state laws, or the priorities of other commissioners and of citizens may stand in their way. Once in office, though, they may realize that their own personal agendas are not so important compared to the rewards of knowing they can help improve life for the citizens of their community.
Is a government really like a business?
You may think of government as being similar to a business. A private business has the objectives of operating efficiently and providing consumers with goods or services they demand. In the same way, a government seeks to operate efficiently and provides citizens with the services they want. But government is different from business in certain fundamental ways. Government is designed to serve the people-all the people, rich and poor. While private business also serves the public, its main goal is to make a profit.
In the private sector, if a product line is not popular you can discontinue it and add a line that is. In government, the products are mostly service-such as running the courts, maintaining roads and bridges, and operating the county jail and cannot be dropped just because they may be unpopular. Although government can be improved to perform more efficiently in many ways, it probably can never be as cost-effective as well-run private business.
How can I find out more about county government and the Association of County Commissioners of Oklahoma?
If you want to know more about being a county commissioner or county government, please Contact the Association of County Commissioners of Oklahoma, 429 N.E. 50th, Oklahoma City, OK 73105. Phone: 405-524-3200; FAX: 405-524-3700.
(information courtesy the Association of County Commissioners of Oklahoma)

Huge Water Leak Found in City

2007-08-10T01:49:00.000-07:00

A huge water leak---24 million gallons a year estimated by utility workers---was discovered at the end of Evans Drive near Buffalo Shores North, enough water to feed 400 new homes. And Wednesday night another five leaks were found south of Honey Creek Bridge, no estimate yet on how much water is involved.
City Manager Bruce Johnson and two GMSA employees went to the scene at 1 a.m., shut off the city water supply, and the leak stopped, flowing the water into Grand Lake's Honey Creek at the Melody Point Cove, Councilman Larry Parham said.
An earlier leak found downtown during utility construction measured 1.6 million gallons a year, which was repaired. Total water loss for the city had been estimated at 44%, which is now down to 38%. Councilman Larry Parham noted that if the leaks get down to 22% the city will not need to upgrade its water processing plant and could save millions of dollars. The city treats 800 million gallons a year, he said.

Precision Wi-Fi Continues to Expand

2007-08-10T01:46:00.000-07:00

Two new towers offering wi-fi broadband internet service to parts of Grove will be activated by the end of August by Precision Wi-Fi of Grove. One is just west of Quail Road and will serve Wildwood and Camilla Estates and eventually Patricia Island; the other is at Governor's Retreat and will serve the Woodward Hollow area.

The new towers will be added to the 6 already in existence. Additional new towers will be going on the Vista Towers on Monkey Island, and the Blue Bluff Water Tower, which will make a total of 10 towers for the area.

We will have 85% coverage of Grove and surrounding lake area," Brent Malone of Precision Wi-Fi said. When the Grove area is completed the company plans to move into the Jay area, he said. Precision Wi-Fi currently has more than 300 customers since beginning service less than a year ago.

Observations...

2007-08-10T01:30:00.001-07:00

This is the week for golfers, with the PGA of America holding its big event in Tulsa at Southern Hills. This is the cream of the crop of all golfers, who play a different game than most of us. The average golfer has no idea the work required for a club professional to get his Class A PGA Card--two years of school studying accounting, marketing, merchandising, member relations, and passing the dreaded two consecutive rounds of 79 or better; the next level up is the PGA tour professional, 156 of them who are the best in the world and spend years qualifying to play on tour.
So watch it on TV or in person in the heat in Tulsa, either way it is going to be a real treat...Harry Halterman has resigned from the Airport Trust Authority Board and a replacement is needed, apply to City Hall by Aug. 14...This week's rumors: GMSA and the city will sell the natural gas portion to a private company in the gas business, and Mark Morris will be named Police Chief...the Monkey Island Fire Department is so loaded with tax money it has purchased trucks for the Fire Chief and Assistant Fire Chief to drive back and forth to work in...Congressman Dan Boren has recommended a public meeting with GRDA, FERC, the Corps of Engineers and the City of Miami over flooding issues caused by operation at the Pensacola Dam. Seems to us that the last flood, biggest in many years, was caused by Mother Nature and too much rain in Kansas. When Grand Lake stood at elevation 749 for several weeks the flood ceased to exist, even in the park area near Hwy 125 bridge. A system of levees should be given study instead of constantly blaming GRDA over a lake level...Grove has a new newspaper, The Grand Lake Leader, published by Tim Langley, former General Manager for four years at the Grove Sun Daily. The paper is on newstands at area stores this week, free, and will feature loads of color photos, feature stories, and the news covering all of Grand Lake...We've been having frequent power failures from REC lately, two or three a day, which require rebooting the computer, resetting the clocks on the microwave and other digital clocks, rebooting DirecTV, etc. and we are tired of it. So we placed a call to REC in beautiful Downtown Vinita to find out what the problem might be. The answer: "Cain't say." Now there's a nice retort from this investor owned utility. We asked if it was a squirrel, a snake? "Cain't say." We hope someone at REC can read this and find out why all the power surges are occurring in our neighborhood...

Grove Second Saturday Event This Weekend

2007-08-10T01:30:00.000-07:00

Shiver Me Timbers!

Pirates are invading downtown Grove!
You will want a camera in your hand and a parrot perched on your
shoulder as you attend this next Grove Second Saturday event, August
11 at 6 p.m. The Ladies of the Salty Kiss
( www.theladiesofthesaltykiss.com), a comedy troupe of Legalized
Pirates will add to the fun and festivities of the downtown Grove
event. The crew of pyratical performers is comprised of actresses
portraying characters from the Renaissance era. Their interactive
play, improvisation, and wild antics are sure to bring lots of smiles
and laughter.

In addition to the fine restaurants, art galleries, and shops there
will be plenty going on along the street. The smell of fried Taters
and Onions will fill the air outside Gourmet's kitchen store while
live polka plays over at Magnolias. Hungry bellies will find beer and
brats compliments of IBC bank and you can stop by 27 West to paint
the giant two while photographer Elayne Bryant takes a free portrait
of your favorite little one. If you are up for a little adventure,
stop in the Grand Lake Sports center. They have talking birds and a
large-mouth bass tank which holds some of the finest fish caught on
Grand Lake. And if you need some bait, Sam Williams, the Grand
fishing guru, can tell you and sell you whether you need it live,
dead or fake. Speaking of live bait, the book worms will have fun
too. You can reel in the latest inspirational books at Fishers of Men
while listening to Mary T sing the gospel. Or, if you would prefer a
New York Time's best-seller, Tucker's has you covered. You say you
would like to do a little singing of your own, or would just like to
listen to someone else try? You can join in on the Karoke fun with
Dink West and Lisa Frieden.

Whatever you do, don't miss the art galleries, The Brush and Palette
Club's main show is titled "Around the Lake" and features an array of
local artists. Brown Design Group offers the largest selection of
fine art and artists in town, and two doors down is northeast
Oklahoma's contemporary modern art gallery: Blazon Studio, which is
currently featuring large sculptural works by Aaron Hauck and Larry
Cole as well as the wildly engaging paintings of local artist Gerry
Goodpasture. Less than one block west of Blazon Studio you will
experience the work of another local artist, Rebecca Sherman, over at
Floral Expressions. While there, you might as well sip a lattÃ© and
enjoy a Krispy Kreme donut at the attached Java Dave's. Java Dave's
is the place where many folks congregate as the night comes to a
close and sweet tooths find themselves looking for a bedtime snack.

You can learn more by logging on at http://www.GroveSecondSaturdays.com.

Sex Abuse Case Still Under DHS Review

2007-08-10T01:15:00.000-07:00

A Delaware County mother said this week she is "very disappointed" in the Oklahoma Department of Human Services investigation into the allegations that a 13-year-old boy sexually abused her four year old daughter at a Jay preschool facility.
The incidents were reported June 28. The Jay police department has completed its investigation and has turned over all its work to the Delaware County District Attorney's office.
The allegations center on inappropriate touching of the little girl's private parts, at least on three occasions.
The little girl came home from preschool on June 28 complaining that she was "sore." Her mother immediately took her to the Delaware County County Children's Special Advocacy Network; police were called; the little girl was taken to a Jay physician for examination. The child was removed from the daycare center and placed in another center in Jay. DHS was notified and the continuing investigation centers on interviews with other children in the daycare center, which has been open since 2001 and usually has around 40 children in its care.
"DESCAN was fantastic," the mother said, "they handled everything so well, even comforting my daughter."
According to the child's mother, the 13-year-old is no longer present if the center is open. The child's mother is concerned that teachers at the center knew of the incidents and failed to report them, instead sending the 13-year-old to "time out."
The alleged incidents took place twice in a playhouse on the grounds, and once on a cot inside the center, the mother said.
The mother said her husband, the girl's stepfather, no longer bathes the child or helps her get dressed; the little girl's behavior towards men has changed, and she won't sleep without the lights on.
The little girl had been attending the daycare center since she was just a few months old.
Nick Lelecas, assistant district attorney who is handling the case, said that because the 13-year-old is a juvenile, no comment would be made regarding the case at this time.

A Matter of Faith...

2007-08-10T01:00:00.002-07:00

By Carol Round
Just Because You Go to Church

“For we are God's fellow workers; you are God's field, God’s building.”
1Corinthinians 3:9 (NIV)

“I’m a Christian but I don’t go to church.”

That statement, made during a conversation I overheard between two women recently, grabbed my attention for two reasons: the tone of the speaker’s voice and my life experiences with religion.

Almost six years ago, when I was lost, I came to know the Lord personally as my savior. Growing up, I attended church faithfully but drifted away in my early 20s. I returned to my roots after my sons were born because I wanted them to have the same foundation of faith. However, over the next two decades, my church attendance was sporadic. My excuse? I met so many hypocrites sitting beside me in the pews that I convinced myself I didn’t need to be there. I thought I was above all of that.

I was self-righteous in my thoughts. I even made the same statement as the woman in the overheard conversation. “I’m a Christian but I don’t go to church.”

I like a statement made by one of my favorite television ministers: “Going to church doesn’t make you a Christian anymore than going to McDonald’s makes you a French fry.”
We justify our lack of church attendance by condemning the behavior of those who do. While church attendance is not a requirement to have a relationship with the Lord, I believe that it is a necessity for our spiritual growth. Fellowship with other believers helps us along that path.
Attending church is also an act of obedience to God. In Hebrews, the writer tells us “not to forsake meeting together as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another.”
Why do some people shun church? Is it because we put on our Sunday morning faces at religious services and then live the rest of the week as if we have left God behind in the building where we worshipped. If we save our best behavior for the Sabbath, what does that say about us as Christians?

I like how my pastor defines church: “A church is not a hotel for saints. It’s a hospital for sinners.”

We all face temptation—even those who attend worship services each week. Being part of an organized fellowship encourages us in our walk with the Lord. When one of us stumbles and falls, we have our church community to help lift us up.

When I first started writing this column, I approached numerous Oklahoma newspaper editors about carrying it weekly. I received a variety of similar responses. However, I still recall one editor’s reply almost two years later.

“I really like what you have to say, but don’t you think you’re preaching to the choir?”

“Sometimes, even the choir needs a reminder,” I replied.

Attending church is an expression of our love for God. The preaching and teaching of His word increases our faith and builds us up spiritually.

A church is more than four walls. Are you a part of it?
A collection of Carol Round’s most popular faith-based columns is now available in book form. For more information, readers can reach her at carolaround@yahoo.com.