Festivals and Foot Races by Judy Haught

One thing that we have discovered in the course of this campaign is that Western Oklahomans enjoy a gathering. Whether it is a parade or a foot race, they turn out for it. Recently we attended two such gatherings: the Cheyenne-Arapaho Days in Hammon and the Run for the Lights 5K Run in Thomas. Crowds of fun-seeking citizens attended both events.
We participated in the parade at the Cheyenne-Arapaho Days celebration, and what a parade it was! The parade was longer than the town. Everything from semi-trucks to beauty queens wended their way through the streets of Hammon to the cheers of enthusiastic spectators. I drove our red pick-up truck with our "Doug Haught for District Judge" signs on the sides while Doug walked along meeting and greeting people.
After the parade, we mingled in the park where all manner of events took place. Free barbecue, a flea market, and live music were just a few of the outdoor attractions, but the main feature of the day was the gale-force wind that battered us from all directions. However, Western Oklahomans, being hardy souls, stoically enjoyed themselves. After all it is spring time in Oklahoma. It reminded me of a scene in the TV miniseries Lonesome Dove where a cold, ferocious wind blew across the prairie. James Garner's character said, "It's just a little piece of weather." Well unless storm sirens blow, Western Oklahomnas generally ignore the wind.
Battered and wind weary, we took in some of the indoor activities later that day. We enjoyed an arts and crafts show and voted on the most beautiful quilt at the quilt show. Although our choice did not win, that was okay because all the quilts were wonderful as was the entire day.
Next on the festival route was the Run for the Lights 5K Run in Thomas. In order to to register for the run, we had to be in Thomas by 8:30, which means we had to leave Elk City very early on a Saturday morning. I am always amazed at how many people run for either health or pleasure. It sort of makes us lazy-natured people a little ashamed. Doug, being one those non-lazy sorts, ran the race. He said his race time was a few minutes better than his last race. I suppose there is something to the old "practice makes perfect" adage.
Later that morning, we attended a pancake breakfast. Now there was something I could appreciate! I also purchased an event T-shirt, so even though I did not run, I can say I supported the race.
Be sure to spread the word: a vote for Judge Haught is a vote for hard work and tenacity, two very important Western Oklahoma values.

Coming to a Church Near You by Judy Haught

We decided that one of the best ways to get to know the people of the 2nd Judicial District would be to attend church with them. After all, what could be more meaningful than sharing a worship experience? So far we have been guests at churches in Washita, Custer, and Ellis Counties.
At the First United Methodist Church of Cordell, we received a warm welcome. We even met up with some semi-relatives. Our sister-in-law's aunt and uncle were celebrating their sixtieth wedding anniversary that Sunday. Reverend David Croninger spoke about the gifts of the spirit, and we left with resolve to discern and use our gifts.
Next on our worship itinerary was the United Methodist Church of
Weatherford. Reverend Lynn Brack led a beautiful, traditional service and delivered a sermon on how Christians should tell their story. Again we were warmly welcomed and inspired.
Last Sunday found us worshiping in the United Methodist Church of Shattuck. We were the recipients of genuine Christian hospitality, and Reverend Lisa Beavers gave an insightful lesson on Old Testament kings, making King David come to life.
We plan to continue visiting churches throughout the district. Although we are United Methodists, we plan to visit other denominations as well to share Christian fellowship. So be on the look out for us; we'll be coming to a church near you very soon. And remember that a vote for Judge Haught is a vote for a man of faith.

Food and Fellowship in the Second Judicial District by Judy Haught

Campaigning is a new experience for us, and while it is a sometimes grueling, learn-as-you-go process, we are having a grand time. Western Oklahoma offers friendly people and an endless array of activities. I've often heard it said that there is nothing to do around here. Well, I'm here to say it's just not so. Faced with trying to attend all activities in a five-county area, we are finding ourselves socially overwhelmed and profoundly overfed.
One of our first campaign stops was at Sandy's Kountry Kitchen in Sentinel. This small, unassuming restaurant has the best salad bar we have ever encountered anywhere, and the pinto beans reminded us of those we ate growing up in in rural Harmon County. Nothing tasted better than our mothers' beans and cornbread after a hard day in the cotton field. We had not eaten anything quite so good until our evening at Sandy's.
Speaking of eating, we have discovered that some of the best food in the country is at rural fire departments. When we pulled up to the Canute Fire Department and saw a long line of determined people waiting in the cold rain, we knew that whatever was inside had to be special. We were not disappointed. The all-you-can-eat catfish dinner was superb. That along with the excellent company of friends and neighbors made for a perfect Friday night.
Our next foray into fire department cuisine was at Sweetwater. This time the menu included barbecue, delicious side dishes, and delectable desserts. The barbecue beat any national chain restaurant hands down, and the firefighters, their families, and members of the community were gracious and welcoming.
Another pleasant gastronomical surprise came our way when we accepted an invitation to a community dinner at Dempsey. Although Dempsey is a challenge to find, the dinner was definitely worth the search. Held in the old Dempsey School House, the meal featured Mexican pile-ons, and did we ever pile it on! All manner of Mexican fixings were followed by to-die-for desserts leaving me to wonder if larger clothes for the candidate and his spouse could be considered a legitimate campaign expense. Again the people of the community welcomed us as only Western Oklahomans can. And as if food and friends were not enough, the evening concluded with the music of Whitfield and Cline. Their old-time country and gospel music took us back to our childhoods. The nostalgia I experienced from "I'll Fly Away" brought tears to my eyes.
Seriously though, we deeply appreciate the hospitality that everyone has shown us. We hope you will follow us on this blog, tell your friends about it, and send your comments. Your choice for 2nd District Judge is a serious decision. A vote for Judge Haught is a vote for integrity and experience. He is "the one to trust."

Food and Fellowship in the Second Judicial District