I've been attending a bible study that covers Revelation 2 and the letters to the seven churches in Asia. I've never been a "fan" of that book as it is completely over my head, but I have to say that the leader of the study is doing a great job of shedding some light on what the book is saying, at least for me. The discussion with the participants helps my perspective immensely.
Stop reading here if you don't want to know my opinion.
This evening I didn't want to be at bible study. I didn't want to be around people who want to criticize and complain about Muslims, about the protesting African Americans, about political points of view. I didn't want to hear the snide remarks that people let escape their mouths about someone who isn't around to defend themselves. I didn't want to listen to hate talk. Listening to news reports and then hearing how much hate those reports rile up put a knot in my stomach.
I don't like being around people who smile at your face and talk hateful about you when you aren't around. I didn't want to be around hypocrites, people who will say nice things to my face, but when I'm not around, listen to mean things being said about me by someone else, especially when they know that those mean things aren't true. And I didn't want to be that kind of hypocrite that listens to mean or untrue things being said about someone who isn't present and keep my mouth shut for fear that I might lose a friend for not agreeing with them. That has happened and I've really had enough of it. I didn't feel like putting myself in that position on this particular night. I was not in a very good mood.
But I put all of those feelings aside and stayed at the bible study.
One thing I loved about moving to a new place was meeting people and getting to know them, and have them get to know me. There is genuine love among the congregation of the church I attend. I don't hear gossip or backstabbing or mean talk about anyone. Oh, I know that everyone is not perfect and I know people talk about others to their individual friends, but that kind of behavior is not part of the culture in our church in general. In the community in general it is a different story, and I've experienced it first-hand.
Back to the bible study. Rev.2: 8-11, reads (from the Revised Standard Version): "8 And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write: 'The words of the first and the last, who died and came to life. 9 I know your tribulation and your poverty (but you are rich) and the slander of those who say that they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. 10 Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and for ten days you will have tribulation. Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life. 11 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. He who conquers shall not be hurt by the second death.' "
Jesus is telling the church (the people) that they have suffered and will suffer, but that they are "rich" for it though it might not feel like that to them. Satan is hate, hate in the hearts of men. When you hate, you are allowing Satan in your life. And Satan is going to continually try to get you to hate because when you do, you are following him and not following Jesus, who taught that we, as Christians, should love EVERYONE. He doesn't say that everyone has to LIKE every one else. He doesn't say that we all have to agree on everything. In these verses of Revelation, the writer is conveying to the people the message of God: telling the church/people of Smyrna to stay strong and resist the temptation of hate. It is hard, but the reward will be eternal life with God. Galatians 6, verce 1 says "Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Look to yourself, lest you too be tempted."
Throughout the Bible, Jesus says to love "your neighbor", and who is your neighbor? -- EVERYONE. Love your enemy. Love those who hurt you, love those who you don't agree with, love those who are outcasts or pariah to everyone else. The message of Jesus is NOT to love only your friends, or the people who agree with your point of view, or those who worship the way you do. Nor does Jesus say that "love" means agreeing with someone else's point of view or how they worship, or liking how they live or worship. These verses say to me that our "tribulations" come from our refusal to accept and love those who are different from us. Love doesn't mean hugging someone or calling them a friend, but it does mean accepting them, and praying for their salvation as you pray for your own salvation. This letter tells us to love EVERYONE.
This was a very powerful message to me. Today there is a lot of hate in the world, some for petty reasons and some for serious reasons. This passage tells me to put that hate aside and let God be in control, in my own life and in the life of others.
This is a hard lesson to abide by. It is difficult not to harden my heart in the face of so much hatred. But Jesus says I must. I have to remember this lesson every day as I walk down the street and come into contact with people who hate me, people who are jealous, people who want recognition and will do and say anything to get it, even at my expense. People who don't want to acknowledge that their hate hurts not only the people they hate but themselves also. I have to continually remind myself that I am not that kind of person. I don't want to fall into the trap of treating people badly because they treat me badly. Staying on the right path in life takes a lot of mental reminders, a lot of prayer.
Monday, May 18, 2015
Tuesday, April 28, 2015
A new leaf
WOW! I did not realize that it has been almost a year since I posted anything on this blog. Since then, there has been a change in city government and we are once again hopeful for the future of our town.
So let me start again:
KUDOS to Andy Barrett (aka "Andy Bennett") and writer Nathan Gunter for getting a great write-up and photos of the Watonga Cheese & Wine Festival into the current Oklahoma Today Magazine! You did a great job as Festival Director overall and especially in working with the owners of Whirlwind Winery and OGIC making Wine a part of a long-standing Festival (what is better than WINE & CHEESE?). Perhaps your success has something to do with your many years of marketing experience?!?!?
I am so proud of you and all that you've done in the Watonga community.
I am re-inspired to promote Watonga as a tourist destination, the "Gateway to Roman Nose State Park", with the Chaparral Retreat B&B, the Oven, Oklahoma House Concerts, the Many Hands Art Space, and the Liberty Theatre.
I ask readers to check in at this blog for the "rest of the story". I am in contact with Oklahoma Tourism magazine and other publications to see if we can get some more print coverage of what's available in Watonga.
/Linda
So let me start again:
KUDOS to Andy Barrett (aka "Andy Bennett") and writer Nathan Gunter for getting a great write-up and photos of the Watonga Cheese & Wine Festival into the current Oklahoma Today Magazine! You did a great job as Festival Director overall and especially in working with the owners of Whirlwind Winery and OGIC making Wine a part of a long-standing Festival (what is better than WINE & CHEESE?). Perhaps your success has something to do with your many years of marketing experience?!?!?
I am so proud of you and all that you've done in the Watonga community.
I am re-inspired to promote Watonga as a tourist destination, the "Gateway to Roman Nose State Park", with the Chaparral Retreat B&B, the Oven, Oklahoma House Concerts, the Many Hands Art Space, and the Liberty Theatre.
I ask readers to check in at this blog for the "rest of the story". I am in contact with Oklahoma Tourism magazine and other publications to see if we can get some more print coverage of what's available in Watonga.
/Linda
Tuesday, July 8, 2014
July 2014
My name is Linda . I am a resident outside of the small rural town of Watonga. Watonga is the closest town to me where I can shop. I run a business. I was a paralegal for over 30 years, working on all kinds of different legal cases. I've owned and operated a publishing business. I've raised two children. I have no family here except for my husband. I like to write and hope to publish something someday.
This is my place to write and express my opinion and feelings. No one is forced to read it. I treat it like my journal -- expressing myself and getting things off of my chest without bothering anyone else. I will no longer link it to the Watonga news blog Facebook page -- that is something I write for the benefit of the community to let people know what's going on since the City of Watonga does nothing to promote our town and there is no other central information source. You can take that statement as being "negative", and in fact it is intended to be negative about the City government, but not about the town itself. Over 1100 people are in agreement with me according to my facebook posts, "likes", "comments", and private messages.
The first step to fixing a problem is recognizing and acknowledging what the problem is, not just blaming the messenger who points out a problem and then using that blame as an excuse to not correct the problem. Every successful business person knows this tenet.
I have, since moving here, considered Watonga a great place to live, even though it has some problems and issues that need to be dealt with to make it a better place for families and businesses. There is not a place in the world that is "perfect". I've promoted the town and its businesses regardless of which business owners like me personally or don't. Watonga is my permanent home and I'm in this to make it the best place it can be for me and my family and my friends. I've said over and over that it is a gem in the rough and could be a destination for people to come to experience the park and a nice place to shop and enjoy some art. I don't understand why people and organizations here won't work together for the benefit of the COMMUNITY, but I am always hopeful it can happen.
This is my place to write and express my opinion and feelings. No one is forced to read it. I treat it like my journal -- expressing myself and getting things off of my chest without bothering anyone else. I will no longer link it to the Watonga news blog Facebook page -- that is something I write for the benefit of the community to let people know what's going on since the City of Watonga does nothing to promote our town and there is no other central information source. You can take that statement as being "negative", and in fact it is intended to be negative about the City government, but not about the town itself. Over 1100 people are in agreement with me according to my facebook posts, "likes", "comments", and private messages.
The first step to fixing a problem is recognizing and acknowledging what the problem is, not just blaming the messenger who points out a problem and then using that blame as an excuse to not correct the problem. Every successful business person knows this tenet.
I have, since moving here, considered Watonga a great place to live, even though it has some problems and issues that need to be dealt with to make it a better place for families and businesses. There is not a place in the world that is "perfect". I've promoted the town and its businesses regardless of which business owners like me personally or don't. Watonga is my permanent home and I'm in this to make it the best place it can be for me and my family and my friends. I've said over and over that it is a gem in the rough and could be a destination for people to come to experience the park and a nice place to shop and enjoy some art. I don't understand why people and organizations here won't work together for the benefit of the COMMUNITY, but I am always hopeful it can happen.
Wednesday, April 2, 2014
APRIL EVENTS
APRIL is going to be a very busy month. Check the Watonga Republican for the various Palm Sunday and Easter Sunday services this month.
Every Wednesday evening at the Methodist Church in Watonga (420 N. Weigle) is mid-week peak dinner beginning at 5:30 p.m. Home-cooked meals prepared by volunteers from the church, it's always supurb. Why cook dinner at home when you can come out and have a great meal with great fellowship.
YOU ARE INVITED -- Men's BIG Breakfast on Saturday, April 5, 7:00 a.m. at Watonga Christian Church (by donation). Cowboy Pastor JC Perkins from Thomas, OK will be there.
On April 19, 2014 at the Liberty Theatre, local musicians, choirs, and praise bands will be performing at the Liberty Theatre on Main Street Watonga. This is a FREE GOSPEL MUSIC event, with a request for donations to go to the Phoenix Circle Foundation to promote it's efforts to bring more ARTS to Watonga.
Another one of the ARTS we have to offer in Watonga are the "Live at the Liberty" music shows. On April 10, Hard Road Trio will be performing. And don't miss Vintage Wildflowers in May! Watch for more information.
The Watonga Community Theatre is presenting its spring show on April 12-13 called PONY EXPRESSO. It's a Western Comedy, great for all audiences directed by Kim Coney. Two shows on Sat April 12, 1 show Sunday April 13.
Also on April 12, at 8:00 PM, the fiddle and guitar duo (HonkyTobnk StepChild) Casey and Minna will be at Roman Nose State Park Lodge. This is a FREE show. Stay at the Lodge or spend the night at Chaparral Retreat just outside of the state park. Either place is beautiful this time of year.
April 3 - Brisket at the Hospital
April 12, at 7:00 am Mason's breakfast
April 17 - Burger day at Hospital
HAVE A GREAT MONTH!
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
March in Watonga
March 5, 2014
We are still fighting cold, icy, sometimes snowy weather, but "this too shall pass." According to the Farmers Almanac, March will be "chilly" and wet and may not warm up until the last week of the month. The forecast calls for average daytime temperatures in the 50's, which will be a nice change from freezing temperatures. We may have some pleasant days off and on throughout the month.
In spite of the cold temperatures, many people showed up at Roman Nose State Park to participate in the annual Trout DerbyTournament sponsored by the Watonga Chamber of Commerce and the many businesses and individuals who donated money and prizes for these hardy fishermen. Friday was beautiful, the cold did not stop them!
(photo by Douglas Cook)
Check out the Watonga Chamber facebook page or www.watongachamber.com website for more details about the Trout Derby and upcomning events sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce.
Speaking of Roman Nose State Park, the Lodge is continuing with its concert series and will host singer Jaime Michaels from New Mexico on Saturday, March 8. No other information is available on the Park's website or facebook page, so contact the Lodge directly for cost and more information. If you're at the Park and the weather turns bad, you can always spend the night at the Chaparral Retreat B&B just outside the park. Call us at 580-623-4269 or 214-763-3823.
Some upcoming things to check out close to home:
On March 7 (Friday) from 5:00 - 7:00 pm is a Burger Benefit for Maurice "Moe" Brown at the Church of the Nazarene. Donations will be matched by the Watonga Masonic Lodge. The family is in need of financial help while Moe struggles with stage 4 stomach cancer. Come out and support a worthwhile cause.
The Watonga Senior Citizen's Center is holding a BIG GARAGE SALE on Saturday, March 8, from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm. There are sure to be treasures to be found there!
KIWANIS is holding it's annual Pancake & Sausage supper at the Watonga Middle School on Tuesday, March 11, from 5:00 to 7:00 pm. Another good night to "eat out" and support the projects sponsored by the Kiwanis Club. Tickets are available from Kiwanis members (just ask!) and at the door.
The OASIS Church is holding a forum on "Human Trafficking on Wed., March 12 at 7:00 pm This forum is to help educate our community about the dangers of human trafficking and how it can affect us here in our area. Youth (over age 12) and adults are urged to attend at the Oasis Church, 121 W. Main, Watonga. [The forum is not appropriate for children under age 12 and child care is NOT available.]
On Friday March 14th DAVID GRIER from Nashville, TN will perform at the Liberty Theatre FREE as part of the "Live at the Liberty Theatre" fundraisers coordinated by John Diamond. He has been able to bring some good musical groups to our small town. David Grier is a legendary bluegrass guitarist. The program for April 10 (Thursday) is HARD ROAD TRIO from New Mexico, a naationally known Americana group. On Friday May 9th VINTAGE WILDFLOWERS with SCOTT SCHMIDT from Tulsa will perform. Put these dates on your calendar and watch for other events and activities on this site or the Watonga news facebook page.
March 15 is the next Liquid ART evening at Whirlwind Winery. You don't have to drink wine to enjoy an evening of art, music, and conversation. The bonus is you can learn a little and paint your own masterpiece! A $30.00 donation to Phoenix Circle Foundation is requested but not required. PCF provides all the materials: canvas, easels, paints and brushes, and instruction. These evenings are fundraisers that go toward bringing art instruction to Watonga children free of charge. (we currently have an afterschool art program at the high school and want to expand to provide art lessons to younger children). The more adults participate in Liquid ART, the more we can plan art classes for children. Call 580-623-4269 to reserve your place for the 15th, or to schedule a special group event.
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HCE is holding a COMMUNITY BLOOD DRIVE at the Foley Bldg in the Fairgrounds on Tuesday, March 18 between 11:00 am and 6:00 pm. Call to make an appointment (623-7059) and help save a life!
The OK State Dept. of Health will be holding a CPR and first aid class at First United Methodist Church on Wed, March 19. Contact Heather Ward at (405) 282-3485 to register to attend or for more information.
The First United Methodist Church has a weekly meal on Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m. All are invited. However, there will be NO meal on Wed. March 19 due to Spring Break. If you have any questions, call 580-623-5221 for information.
As I receive information about the goings-on in Watonga, I'll post them. Anyone can contact me at phoenixcir@yahoo.com.
/linda
We are still fighting cold, icy, sometimes snowy weather, but "this too shall pass." According to the Farmers Almanac, March will be "chilly" and wet and may not warm up until the last week of the month. The forecast calls for average daytime temperatures in the 50's, which will be a nice change from freezing temperatures. We may have some pleasant days off and on throughout the month.
In spite of the cold temperatures, many people showed up at Roman Nose State Park to participate in the annual Trout DerbyTournament sponsored by the Watonga Chamber of Commerce and the many businesses and individuals who donated money and prizes for these hardy fishermen. Friday was beautiful, the cold did not stop them!
Check out the Watonga Chamber facebook page or www.watongachamber.com website for more details about the Trout Derby and upcomning events sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce.
Speaking of Roman Nose State Park, the Lodge is continuing with its concert series and will host singer Jaime Michaels from New Mexico on Saturday, March 8. No other information is available on the Park's website or facebook page, so contact the Lodge directly for cost and more information. If you're at the Park and the weather turns bad, you can always spend the night at the Chaparral Retreat B&B just outside the park. Call us at 580-623-4269 or 214-763-3823.
Some upcoming things to check out close to home:
On March 7 (Friday) from 5:00 - 7:00 pm is a Burger Benefit for Maurice "Moe" Brown at the Church of the Nazarene. Donations will be matched by the Watonga Masonic Lodge. The family is in need of financial help while Moe struggles with stage 4 stomach cancer. Come out and support a worthwhile cause.
The Watonga Senior Citizen's Center is holding a BIG GARAGE SALE on Saturday, March 8, from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm. There are sure to be treasures to be found there!
KIWANIS is holding it's annual Pancake & Sausage supper at the Watonga Middle School on Tuesday, March 11, from 5:00 to 7:00 pm. Another good night to "eat out" and support the projects sponsored by the Kiwanis Club. Tickets are available from Kiwanis members (just ask!) and at the door.
The OASIS Church is holding a forum on "Human Trafficking on Wed., March 12 at 7:00 pm This forum is to help educate our community about the dangers of human trafficking and how it can affect us here in our area. Youth (over age 12) and adults are urged to attend at the Oasis Church, 121 W. Main, Watonga. [The forum is not appropriate for children under age 12 and child care is NOT available.]
On Friday March 14th DAVID GRIER from Nashville, TN will perform at the Liberty Theatre FREE as part of the "Live at the Liberty Theatre" fundraisers coordinated by John Diamond. He has been able to bring some good musical groups to our small town. David Grier is a legendary bluegrass guitarist. The program for April 10 (Thursday) is HARD ROAD TRIO from New Mexico, a naationally known Americana group. On Friday May 9th VINTAGE WILDFLOWERS with SCOTT SCHMIDT from Tulsa will perform. Put these dates on your calendar and watch for other events and activities on this site or the Watonga news facebook page.
March 15 is the next Liquid ART evening at Whirlwind Winery. You don't have to drink wine to enjoy an evening of art, music, and conversation. The bonus is you can learn a little and paint your own masterpiece! A $30.00 donation to Phoenix Circle Foundation is requested but not required. PCF provides all the materials: canvas, easels, paints and brushes, and instruction. These evenings are fundraisers that go toward bringing art instruction to Watonga children free of charge. (we currently have an afterschool art program at the high school and want to expand to provide art lessons to younger children). The more adults participate in Liquid ART, the more we can plan art classes for children. Call 580-623-4269 to reserve your place for the 15th, or to schedule a special group event.
HCE is holding a COMMUNITY BLOOD DRIVE at the Foley Bldg in the Fairgrounds on Tuesday, March 18 between 11:00 am and 6:00 pm. Call to make an appointment (623-7059) and help save a life!
The OK State Dept. of Health will be holding a CPR and first aid class at First United Methodist Church on Wed, March 19. Contact Heather Ward at (405) 282-3485 to register to attend or for more information.
The First United Methodist Church has a weekly meal on Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m. All are invited. However, there will be NO meal on Wed. March 19 due to Spring Break. If you have any questions, call 580-623-5221 for information.
As I receive information about the goings-on in Watonga, I'll post them. Anyone can contact me at phoenixcir@yahoo.com.
/linda
Friday, February 7, 2014
Feb. Calendar
I've gotten off to a late start in publishing the calendar of events for February (due to the weather, lack of internet for several days, and just plain laziness)! The Watonga Chamber of Commerce Banquet was held on Feb. 3, with Representative Tom Ivester as keynote speaker. Lots of community leaders and business people were present for the uplifting and positive messages given by Mr. Ivester and the Chamber President, Vicki Williams. Music was provided by the Rural Route Ramblers -- don't miss them next time they perform in Watonga! Congratulations to the winners of the community awards given by the Chamber, all of whom are deserving and set a good example for our community:
Business of the Year: Whirlwind Winery
New Business of the Year: Lumber Yard
Volunteer of the Year: Bill Kelly
Citizen of the Year: Mark Pinkerton
Beautification Award: Sonic
Bobbi Schenk was recognized as Teacher of the Year by Superintendent Bill Seiter. Thanks go to End O'main for catering the event, and to Todd Lafferty for acting as MC. Also, a BIG thank you to all who came out for the banquet, especially with the weather the way it is!
Today is Fri. Feb. 7 -- Watonga High School basketball at Crossings Christian at 6:30 pm (JV at 4:30 pm)
For more information on school athletics dates, go to www.watongapublicschools.com.
On Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2014, don't forget to VOTE .... whether you vote "yes" or "no" on the school bond issue, it is important that you VOTE!!
Friday Feb 14 - VALENTINE'S DAY Check out Aunt Toot's on Noble (across from the Noble House) and Hi-Tek Designs on Main Street for come sweetheart gift ideas.
Then, on Saturday, Feb. 15, do something different with or for your special "somebody" -- go to the LIQUID ART evening at Whirlwind Winery, enjoy some wine tasting, and make some ART. Sponsored by the Phoenix Circle Foundation (a 501(c)(3) organization), all supplies are provided and the fee is tax-deductible. Call 580-623-4269 for reservations so that they have enough supplies for all you lovers! Check out "Phoenix Circle Foundation" on FACEBOOK for more information.
Also on Feb. 14, the Watonga Public Library is holding another "Let's Do Lunch" with Jennifer Kidney discussing Barbara Kingsolver's books (The Poisonwood Bible) . Bring your lunch and get excited about reading! I had never read any of Ms. Kingsolver's books before hearing a presentation by Jennifer, and I am now in the middle of my second novel of hers!
Once the weather warms up (to above-freezing temperatures), the After School Art program at the high school will resume == hopefully on Wed. Feb. 12. Call 580-623-4269 for more information on this free program.
Feb. 17 is PRESIDENT'S day and the children will be out of school.
The next City Council meeting in Watonga will be on Feb. 18 at 7:30 p.m. If you want to know what's going on with the City, you MUST attend some of these meetings because the City Clerk does not publish or provide any information to the public on a voluntary basis. The Agenda is sometimes posted on the City's website at www.cityofwatonga.org, and is generally posted in print on the door of the City Clerk's office on Weigle on the Friday before each meeting on Tuesday.
Feb. 28 - March 2 is the annual TROUT DERBY at Roman Nose State Park lakes, sponsored by Friends of Roman Nose Association and the Watonga Chamber of Commerce. Register to win fabulous prizes, and catch fish to win even more prizes. You don't have to be a fisherman to register for the grant prize [I hear it's going to be a $500.00 gift certificate to a major sporting goods store -- where there's something for everyone!]. The weather should be good but check www.weather.com for up-to-date local weather (not OKC weather!). And don't forget that the state record rainbow trout was caught at Watonga Lake !! More information on the trout derby can be found at www.watongachamber.com
Mark Reed of Bridge Creek at Lake Watonga. Courtesy of NewsOK.
The goal of this post is to keep the public informed .... if you know of anything that needs to be included on the monthly calendar, please comment here or email me at phoenixcir@yahoo.com.
HAVE A GREAT MONTH!
Business of the Year: Whirlwind Winery
New Business of the Year: Lumber Yard
Volunteer of the Year: Bill Kelly
Citizen of the Year: Mark Pinkerton
Beautification Award: Sonic
Bobbi Schenk was recognized as Teacher of the Year by Superintendent Bill Seiter. Thanks go to End O'main for catering the event, and to Todd Lafferty for acting as MC. Also, a BIG thank you to all who came out for the banquet, especially with the weather the way it is!
Today is Fri. Feb. 7 -- Watonga High School basketball at Crossings Christian at 6:30 pm (JV at 4:30 pm)
For more information on school athletics dates, go to www.watongapublicschools.com.
On Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2014, don't forget to VOTE .... whether you vote "yes" or "no" on the school bond issue, it is important that you VOTE!!
Friday Feb 14 - VALENTINE'S DAY Check out Aunt Toot's on Noble (across from the Noble House) and Hi-Tek Designs on Main Street for come sweetheart gift ideas.
Then, on Saturday, Feb. 15, do something different with or for your special "somebody" -- go to the LIQUID ART evening at Whirlwind Winery, enjoy some wine tasting, and make some ART. Sponsored by the Phoenix Circle Foundation (a 501(c)(3) organization), all supplies are provided and the fee is tax-deductible. Call 580-623-4269 for reservations so that they have enough supplies for all you lovers! Check out "Phoenix Circle Foundation" on FACEBOOK for more information.
Also on Feb. 14, the Watonga Public Library is holding another "Let's Do Lunch" with Jennifer Kidney discussing Barbara Kingsolver's books (The Poisonwood Bible) . Bring your lunch and get excited about reading! I had never read any of Ms. Kingsolver's books before hearing a presentation by Jennifer, and I am now in the middle of my second novel of hers!
Once the weather warms up (to above-freezing temperatures), the After School Art program at the high school will resume == hopefully on Wed. Feb. 12. Call 580-623-4269 for more information on this free program.
Feb. 17 is PRESIDENT'S day and the children will be out of school.
The next City Council meeting in Watonga will be on Feb. 18 at 7:30 p.m. If you want to know what's going on with the City, you MUST attend some of these meetings because the City Clerk does not publish or provide any information to the public on a voluntary basis. The Agenda is sometimes posted on the City's website at www.cityofwatonga.org, and is generally posted in print on the door of the City Clerk's office on Weigle on the Friday before each meeting on Tuesday.
Feb. 28 - March 2 is the annual TROUT DERBY at Roman Nose State Park lakes, sponsored by Friends of Roman Nose Association and the Watonga Chamber of Commerce. Register to win fabulous prizes, and catch fish to win even more prizes. You don't have to be a fisherman to register for the grant prize [I hear it's going to be a $500.00 gift certificate to a major sporting goods store -- where there's something for everyone!]. The weather should be good but check www.weather.com for up-to-date local weather (not OKC weather!). And don't forget that the state record rainbow trout was caught at Watonga Lake !! More information on the trout derby can be found at www.watongachamber.com
Mark Reed of Bridge Creek at Lake Watonga. Courtesy of NewsOK.
The goal of this post is to keep the public informed .... if you know of anything that needs to be included on the monthly calendar, please comment here or email me at phoenixcir@yahoo.com.
HAVE A GREAT MONTH!
Wednesday, February 5, 2014
Chamber of Commerce Banquet
Feb 2, 2014
Monday night's Chamber of Commerce banquet was an uplifting event for our community. Chamber President Vicki Williams gave a rousing and positive address, pointing out that Watonga has something that has brought outsiders to invest in our community and encouraging local citizens and businesses to invest in our town. The key speaker was Oklahoma State Senator Tom Ivester, who reminded us that small towns such as Watonga are not going to be the same as they were in the 1950’s and 1960’s but that we can still grow and prosper. At the end of the evening, it felt as if a death pall had been lifted from the town.
The Chamber of Commerce gave the following awards to local citizens and businesses:
Business of the Year: Whirlwind Winery
New Business of the Year: Lumber Yard
Volunteer of the Year: Bill Kelly
Citizen of the Year: Mark Pinkerton
Beautification Award: Sonic
At the banquet, Bobbi Schenk was recognized as Teacher of the Year by Superintendent Bill Seiter. Also present were State Representative Mike Sanders and his lovely wife Nelly, and Mayor Clay Loosen. Todd Lafferty acted as Emcee. The meal was catered by End O’Main and was delicious. Pre-program entertainment was provided by the Rural Route Ramblers, made up of Katie Ballew-Lyle, John Diamond, and Verne Brickman. There are many talented people in our community. Congratulations to all of these very deserving recipients of recognition by our Chamber of Commerce. The new year is off to a good start for Watonga!
The goal of the Watonga Chamber of Commerce is to make our community a better place to work, live and play. Through its administrator and membership, the Chamber works to promote Watonga through business and tourism, and to advance the economic, industrial, professional, cultural and civic welfare of the citizens of the City of Watonga and the surrounding community. Contact Mary Larsen at 580-623-5452 for questions about events sponsored by the Chamber throughout the year, or check out their website at www.watongachamber.com.
Monday night's Chamber of Commerce banquet was an uplifting event for our community. Chamber President Vicki Williams gave a rousing and positive address, pointing out that Watonga has something that has brought outsiders to invest in our community and encouraging local citizens and businesses to invest in our town. The key speaker was Oklahoma State Senator Tom Ivester, who reminded us that small towns such as Watonga are not going to be the same as they were in the 1950’s and 1960’s but that we can still grow and prosper. At the end of the evening, it felt as if a death pall had been lifted from the town.
The Chamber of Commerce gave the following awards to local citizens and businesses:
Business of the Year: Whirlwind Winery
New Business of the Year: Lumber Yard
Volunteer of the Year: Bill Kelly
Citizen of the Year: Mark Pinkerton
Beautification Award: Sonic
At the banquet, Bobbi Schenk was recognized as Teacher of the Year by Superintendent Bill Seiter. Also present were State Representative Mike Sanders and his lovely wife Nelly, and Mayor Clay Loosen. Todd Lafferty acted as Emcee. The meal was catered by End O’Main and was delicious. Pre-program entertainment was provided by the Rural Route Ramblers, made up of Katie Ballew-Lyle, John Diamond, and Verne Brickman. There are many talented people in our community. Congratulations to all of these very deserving recipients of recognition by our Chamber of Commerce. The new year is off to a good start for Watonga!
The goal of the Watonga Chamber of Commerce is to make our community a better place to work, live and play. Through its administrator and membership, the Chamber works to promote Watonga through business and tourism, and to advance the economic, industrial, professional, cultural and civic welfare of the citizens of the City of Watonga and the surrounding community. Contact Mary Larsen at 580-623-5452 for questions about events sponsored by the Chamber throughout the year, or check out their website at www.watongachamber.com.
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