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.