Public Service Content for OPA Contest by The Ardmoreite

SUNDAY, January 20, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

SALUTE TO FIREFIGHTERS 2018 CARTER COUNTY FIREFIGHTER OF THE YEAR

Perryman honored for 20 years of service By Robby Short robbyshort@ardmoreite.com

or more than 20 years, Clarence Perryman — when not working his day job at Michelin Ardmore, or attending to his family — has spent his free time as a volunteer for the Dickson Fire Department. For 365 days of the year, when Perryman is called to the station, it’s to help others. Friday, however, the call summoning volunteers to the Dickson fire station only required him to be present. Perryman was recognized as the 2018 Carter County Firefighter of the Year. In a ceremony, surrounded by his peers, family and friends, Perryman received a plaque recognizing his efforts for serving his community, a $500 cash prize and a catered meal provided by sponsors Michelin Ardmore, Top Tech, XTO Energy and The Ardmoreite. As the department’s training officer, Perryman assumes responsibility for every volunteer firefighter that walks through the doors of the Dickson Fire Department. “Nowadays, volunteers can’t be like we used to be when I started,” Perryman said. “You can’t just get on a truck and go fight a fire with your blue jeans, Levi shirt and Redwing boots on. Now, we are so liable for the people riding on the back of a truck that they have to have an extensive amount of training before we can ever let them engage in any kind of firefighting. It takes a lot of commitment from the volunteers in order to hold a full-time, 40-houra-week job and then do the necessary training to keep up with the certifications they need to be liable to fight fire, along with all the time it takes to actually fight fires.” Perryman’s first experience as a first responder came from Michelin when he participated in relief efforts following the May 7, 1995 tornado that struck the plant. “We got back in the plant and were doing work and one of the guys said ‘hey, you need to get on the emergency response team,’” Perryman said. “So I got on the team and started training and one of the fellow members was also on the Dickson Fire Department, and he suggested that I get on so I could get twice the training. David Conger got me on with the fire depart-

ment, and I’ve been there ever since.” Firefighters, while responsible for responding to wildfires and house fires, also usually act as the first paramedics to arrive on scene for medical calls and car crashes. “More than 70 percent of what we do is medical calls,” Perryman said. “I tell everyone that comes in and sits down that ‘I want you know that you are joining a volunteer EMS services that sometimes gets to put out fires.” Along with responding to calls, Perryman also assumes responsibility for the mental health and well-being of every volunteer that serves Dickson. “We sit down and tell them all the possibilities,” Perryman said. “It’s a lot better now than it was back then. We have so much help that we can get to now, and we’ve gotten rid of that stigma that ‘it’s part of your job, suck it up.’ We actually have counselors we can go talk to and we do a lot of critical incident stress management, and back then we didn’t do that.” While the mental health services are available to all department members, Perryman said he takes extra steps to make sure every volunteer knows what resources are available and the impact their experiences can have on them. “It’s not mandatory, when we have a death, we get back to the station and sit around a desk and discuss it,” Perryman said. “If they need a little help they can talk to me or the chief

Above left: Ardmoreite Managing Editor Robby Short presents Clarence Perryman, Dickson Volunteer Fire Department training officer with a plaque recognizing him as the 2018 Carter County Firefighter of the year. Above: Perryman, seated, is flanked by members of the department. Other valued sponsors of this award are Michelin Ardmore, Top Tech and XTO Energy and the Ardmoreite. BECKY MATCHEN AND ROBBY SHORT/ THE ADMOREITE

and we can get them hooked up with a counselor. I always check on them for about a week, call them personally and see how they are doing and see if they are having trouble sleeping. And they have gotten good about it, they tell us if it’s bothering them.” The life of a first responder can be difficult. The profession often puts those willing to wear the uniform in positions to see things that they can never unsee. For first responders in small communities, those in need are often neighbors, friends or family members. “Back in ’95, it was extremely bad. In a 12-month period we had 10 fatalities on that 9-mile stretch of road, and that’s why it’s lead to a five-lane now,” Perryman said. “That stretch was extremely bad. This community, you know those people. It’s not like being a firefighter in Oklahoma City where you can do your entire 20 years and never have to work on someone you

know, or someone you went to school with, or work with.” For Dickson firefighters, the houses they save belong to their neighbors, friends, families and so do the lives they save. “You get to see the direct results of your training and your services when you get to help somebody, rather then when their house burns down,” Perryman said. “It’s a lot more rewarding a lot more often than stopping a fire that doesn’t destroy someone’s whole house or someone’s whole pasture.” Perryman said his years of service continue to have a profound impact on his life. “I appreciate the moment more, and the amount of training I’ve received and how much of that that has carried over that helps me at work and helping me with my family,” Perryman said. “It’s not a part-time occasional when you feel like it kind of deal, it’s an every minute of every day type of deal.”

Editor’s note: The 2018 Carter County Firefighter of the Year candidates were nominated by members of the community. All Carter County Fire Departments were eligible for nomination. No City of Ardmore Firefighters were nominated. The winner was chosen by Ardmoreite readers through an online poll. The City of Ardmore Fire Department will also receive a $500 cash prize.

THANK YOU FOR SERVING

SUNDAY, January 20, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

SALUTE TO FIREFIGHTERS 2018 CARTER COUNTY FIREFIGHTER OF THE YEAR NOMINEES

Ratliff City firefighter brings EMT training to her team she was 36, and her Emergency Medical Technician training in 2016. “I wanted to show my kids it doesn’t The first female firefighter in Ratliff matter how old you are, you can go City brought a wave of firsts to her back to school and accomplish whatvolunteer department. ever you want,” Robbins said. “I’ve Bobbie Robbins, the Ratliff City always taught them that if you want clerk and treasurer, has only something, you go for it.” been with the department for The lessons seem to be a few years. Her husband, who paying off. Robbins’ 18-yearalso works for the city, joined old son, still a senior in high years ago. Robbins said now, school, recently joined the volthe department is like family unteer fire department as well. to her. “I’ve always been about “Most people are supporthelping people, and the medive. At the beginning, it was ical field is just something that different,” Robbins said. “They I’ve always been interested in,” weren’t used to seeing female BOBBIE Robbins said. “I never thought first responders show up.” I’d do anything like that.” ROBBINS Robbins wasn’t looking to When she applied, she condraw attention to herself by joining. sidered her chances of being allowed She said it came from a desire to help in slim, but the department voted to her community. Robbins set out to do add her to their roster of firefighters in that, initially taking a different route, February 2017. By March, she’d fought as she saw the need for more medical her first fire. assistance in her part of Carter County. “Now, I’m the EMT up here, and I She earned her Emergency Medical make the majority of the medical calls Responder certification in 2015, when By Rhiannon Saegert rhiannon.saegert@ardmoreite.com

Bobbie Robbins steps down from a Ratliff City Volunteer Fire Department truck. SUBMITTED PHOTO

we have,” Robbins said. “I’m on the fire side of it too, and people know that if they need help or if they’re sick, they’ll call me.” Robbins’ medical expertise paid off in the long run. As emergency med-

ical response supervisor, Robbins’ registered the department as a Licensed Emergency Medical Response Agency with the state of Oklahoma, a SEE ROBBINS, PAGE 3B

Chandler describes 35 years as a volunteer firefighter neighborhood. “He wanted us to have a fire department, but he didn’t want to be a part Jerry Don Chandler with the Lake of it,” Chandler said. “But he had the Murray Village Fire Department is credentials, so he helped us form up proud of both his department and his and we began from there.” station — as well he should be. After With the retired chief ’s help and a all, he helped build both from truck from the forestry divithe ground up. sion, the Lake Murray Village Chandler first moved to Fire Department was born in Lake Murray Village in 1975, 1984. Chandler described the long before they had a fire early days. department of their own. “We probably had five or “We had several grassfires six members, and we had no around and the only protecfunds,” Chandler said. “But we tion we had at that time was had an old truck that would in Marietta, and that is quite a shoot water, and we would distance,” Chandler said. “We JERRY DON go.” also had some help from Ard- CHANDLER Eventually they built a more but we understand that small building to house their they are a municipal fire department equipment, but everyone knew they so they are paid to stay in Ardmore, needed more space. In fact, at every and that’s understandable.” meeting they held, one item on the Chandler said the idea to create agenda was the construction of a new their own fire department began in building. Finally Chandler spoke up. around 1983 when a retired fire chief “I told them if we step out and show from Oklahoma City moved into the our interest in getting this building By Drew Butler drew.butler@ardmoreite.com

. SUBMITTED PHOTO

done, other folks will show some interOnce funding fell into place, thanks est too,” Chandler said. With that, he to a grant from the Westheimer Fountook over as building superintendent dation, Chandler helped with the conand helped secure a contractor and struction himself. An electrician by funding for their new building. SEE CHANDLER, PAGE 3B

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SUNDAY, January 20, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

SALUTE TO FIREFIGHTERS 2017 CITY OF ARDMORE AND RURAL FIREFIGHTER OF THE YEAR WINNERS

Shane and Chandi Woolly stand for photos after Shane was presented with the plaque for The Ardmoreite’s 2017 City of Ardmore Firefighter of the Year. ROBBY SHORT/THE ARDMOREITE

CHANDLER Continued from Page 2B

trade, Chandler ended up installing all the electric. Today the Lake Murray Village Fire Department has 15 members and Chandler happily listed off their equipment. “Now we have a ’96 model engine that carries five people, and we have two tanker trucks,” Chandler said. “That

ROBBINS Continued from Page 2B

designation that’s somewhat rare for volunteer fire departments. “We are one of, I think, three in Carter County,” Robbins said. “I take care of the medical side of it, I’m taking inventory, taking care of supplies.” She said while she re-

Lone Grove Fire Chief Stacey Phelps examines the plaque he received after being named the 2017 Rural Firefighter of the Year. ROBBY SHORT/THE ARDMOREITE

means we’ve got 6,500 gallons of water at the door ready to go.” In addition to these vehicles they also have four brush trucks to help them get to wildfires. All of this equipment was put to good use a few years ago when several grassfires ravaged the state. “About five or six years ago, we had a breakout of fires all over,” Chandler said. “One day we had one start way out off Pike Road. The wind was just blowing

tremendously and you couldn’t keep up with it. You couldn’t stay out of its way.” Chandler said that rather than focusing on putting out the fire, the department instead focused on saving whatever they could. He believes the only thing that ultimately stopped the fire from spreading further was the Interstate. “We would hop from this property to that property where someone had a house or barn,” Chandler said.

“We would fight it so the fire would go around the property, and then we would just go to the next place. While the Interstate was helpful when it came to stopping the wildfire, Chandler said he feels doing rescue work on the Interstate is the most hazardous part of his department’s job. “To me fighting a great big racing grass fire is dangerous, but it’s nothing compared to that Interstate and we go out there day and night,”

Chandler said. As the officer in charge of rescue training, he said that he cannot tell his crew often enough not to turn their backs to the traffic when working a rescue scene. “People act like you’re not there, and just drive like maniacs,” Chandler said. When there is an accident with injury, his department helps assist the ambulance. Their responsibilities include putting a heavy piece of equipment behind

the ambulance for its protection and putting out safety cones to steer traffic away. Chandler said he’s seen drivers run over the safety cones and weave in and out of closed lanes trying to get ahead of one car. In spite of all this, Chandler loves his volunteer work. “I’m like a lot of the other guys in our department,” Chandler said. “We’re just civic oriented and do this to help people.”

mains the department’s medical leader, she said she knows none of it could happen without her team behind her. “I call them ‘my boys,’” Robbins said. “I couldn’t do any of it without my boys, whether it’s a fire or medical scene. We really are just one big family.” Robbins also joined Community Emergency Response Team, a Carter

County volunteer agency that assists local first responders with, among other things, firefighter rehab. Firefighter rehab involves monitoring the health of firefighters at the scene, making sure they’re taken care of and not exhausted as a fire wears on. “I pull myself off the fire and I go straight to medical,” Robbins said. “If we’re at a fire for

an extended period of time, I make sure my guys are okay. I make sure they’re getting water, I make sure they’re getting snacks, if they get injured I take care of that. If something major happens, we’ll get them to the hospital.” Since then, CERT has assisted the department with difficult fires. In March 2017, the department fought fires

for three days straight alongside Fox, Purnell, Wilson, Lone Grove, Healdton, Dillard and Graham’s departments. “We’d get one put out, we’d have another one,” Robbins said. “I brought CERT out. Some of them weren’t used to firefighter rehab, and they were like ‘what is this?’ Now, when there’s a big fire, we’re going to take care of them.”

Robbins said despite the danger, she’s never once felt scared. Her trust in her family and their trust in her has kept her fearless from the first fire. “It’s really neat,” Robbins said. “You get a major call, and you know what they need without having to actually talk to the person, and they know what you need. We all have our places.”

FOCUSED ON

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THURSDAY, February 7, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

OPINION

QUESTIONS? Contact Publisher Kim Benedict at (580) 223-2200 or kim.benedict@ardmoreite.com

OUR VIEW

Honoring Southern Oklahoma’s amazing teachers

hances are — especially if you are reading this — you’ve had a particular amazing teacher make a significant impact on your life. From the time we start learning our letters in kindergarten to the time we walk across the stage to receive our high school diploma, a collection of amazing teachers have been there to inspire, guide, redirect or just encourage us along the way. For most, the skills learned throughout this stage of life carry over into adulthood. Some of us have seen the same teachers that taught us teach our children or grandchildren, nieces, nephews and family friends. The same teachers that pushed us to be better, to learn and become productive members of society continue to push students to be the very best that they can be. The impact those teachers have had throughout the generations continue to reverberate through each new generation of teachers, graduates and students. To celebrate these contributions, The Ardmoreite is honored and privileged to once again present the Amazing Teacher award which spotlights the amazing efforts made by local teachers in educating southern Oklahoma students. All current teachers from Ardmore, Plainview, Lone Grove and Dickson school districts are eligible for Ardmore Area Amazing Teacher, while all other districts within a 40-mile radius of Ardmore are eligible for Regional Amazing Teacher. To nominate that special teacher in your life, send a brief summary on the impact they have made and why they are deserving of the award along with the school and grade in which they teach to robby.short@ardmoreite. com. Don’t forget to include a contact number and a photo you’d like used when we begin our online voting portion of this contest. It’s not everyday we get the opportunity to show these amazing teachers how grateful we are for all the work they do. With your help we can show them how much their efforts mean to our community. We look forward to your submissions and to hearing the stories that make southern Oklahoma teachers so amazing.

Moderately Confused

STATE

Oklahoma ramps up Capitol security after teacher walkout OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Leaders in the Oklahoma House ramped up security by erecting guard stations in hallways, banning public access to stairwells and hiring an ex-police officer licensed to carry a gun less than one year after thousands of teachers’ staged peaceful protests in the Oklahoma Capitol to demand more education funding. The increase in security was imposed by majority Republicans as a new session of the Legislature opened Monday. House Speaker Charles McCall denied the measures were prompted by the two-week teacher walkout, which was peaceful and didn’t result in any arrests. “These changes aren’t meant to be heavy-handed in any way,” McCall told The Associated Press. “We’re interested in being proactive to ensure people who visit the Capitol have a safe, positive experience.” He said limiting public access to the stairwells would allow members to more easily access the chamber and that the guard stations outside the offices of the top two House leaders were to provide information to visitors.

GUEST COLUMN

Can moderate Dems talk Pelosi out of extreme border position?

s things stand now, a House and Senate conference committee is the only hope that Democrats and Republicans can reach agreement on border security and avoid another government shutdown. The negotiations — such as they are, for a committee that has met briefly only once in more than a week — are ostensibly between Republicans and Democrats. But well-informed Republicans believe it is another set of talks — internal talks among Democrats — that will determine whether the committee succeeds and a shutdown is averted. “This is not a negotiation between Republicans and Democrats,” said one GOP lawmaker who is keeping close tabs on the process. “This is a negotiation between rank-and-file Democrats and Nancy Pelosi.” “That is unmistakably true,” added a Republican who is taking part in the talks. “There are many reasonable voices within the Democratic conference who want to see a positive resolution here.” Pelosi’s “emboldened stance” — her decision to refuse to consider any funds for a border barrier — has been “very hurtful to the process,” the lawmaker added. Why are the intra-Democratic talks so critical? Because Republicans already agree on the key components of a border security package. They are united behind the need for a border barrier, and they are united behind the other provisions — drug detection technology for ports of entry, more im-

Financial challenges continue at OU NORMAN (AP) — The condition of the University of Oklahoma’s finances remains troubling, despite recovery efforts taken in the last seven months, OU’s chief financial officer said in a report to

Published Tuesday through Friday and Sunday mornings by The Daily Ardmoreite. Member of The Associated Press, which is entitled to exclusive use of all local news.

the Board of Regents. OU President Jim Gallogly asked CFO Ken Rowe to provide a status report at the regents’ meeting last week, The Oklahoman reported. “There’s been a mixed message out there in the public about where we stand financially, whether in fact we do have need to change the way we do the business part of the

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Cuellar did not explain. Instead, he attempted to make a sort of federalism argument in which local authorities, not the federal government, should control security on the U.S.-Mexico border. “I have to say, living on the border, you have to let the local border patrol chief have the say-so and let the local communities be involved so they can come up with maybe some sort of enhanced barrier,” Cuellar said. “But again, Washington cannot dictate what sort of barrier and where to put it at.” If there is any argument that will not carry the day with either party, it is that one. The federal government has the authority to enforce immigration law, and in the end, Washington will indeed determine what, if any, new security measures are put in place on the border. By the time Cuellar was finished, there was absolutely zero clarity on whether there is a Democratic position different from Pelosi’s. Republicans believe that such a position does exist and that it could form the basis of a settlement of the current standoff. But for that to happen, Pelosi would have to back away from a stance -- walls are immoral -- that won the last shutdown fight. She didn’t give an inch and came out on top. Why would she be inclined to make concessions now, even if some in her party believe it would be best for the country to do so? Byron York is chief political correspondent for The Washington Examiner.

STATE

The Ardmoreite Kim Benedict, Publisher

migration judgconference to rees, humanitarian solve this. It’s not aid for detained just Collin Petermigrants —that son.” many members of Peterson is the both parties supMinnesota Demport as part of a ocratic represenc o m p r e h e n s i v e BYRON tative who made border security YORK news two weeks policy. Republiago when he said, cans are already there. “Give Trump the monThe question is wheth- ey.” During a radio iner Pelosi can be talked terview, Peterson added, down from her my-way- “I’d give him the whole or-the-highway position. thing ... and put strings Some members of the on it so you make sure conference committee — he puts the wall where it and not just Republicans needs to be. Why are we — were surprised when fighting over this? We’re Pelosi made an opening going to build that wall offer that not only ze- anyway, at some time.” roed out the $1.6 billion Needless to say, that is for border fencing that not the current position Democrats had previ- of Peterson’s Democratic ously agreed to, but also leadership. But where, zeroed out any money exactly, most Democrats for new Border Patrol stand on the barrier isagents and slashed sue is not entirely clear. funds for ICE detention Take the recent Fox facilities. News Sunday interview “There is not going to with Democratic Rep. be any wall money in Henry Cuellar, a conferthe legislation,” Pelosi ence committee member said. Mentioning some who also represents a already-existing vehicle border district in Texas. fencing — fencing that “First of all, we’re not has been overrun by il- going to have a wall,” legal crossings in recent Cuellar began, sticking weeks — Pelosi said, “If with his leadership. But the president wants to then: “Now, can we look call that a wall, he can at some sort of enhanced call that a wall.” barrier? That’s someThe White House thing we can certainly has indicated at several look at.” times during the last few Even granting that months that it is willing “look at” does not mean to compromise on the “support,” what did that amount of money set mean? Did that mean aside for a barrier. Democrats might supRepublicans believe port, say, replacing Pethere are Democrats losi’s vehicle fencing on the conference com- with a barrier that stops mittee and in the larger pedestrians? Did it Democratic conference mean Democrats might who do not share Pelo- support barriers in arsi’s immoderation. “It’s eas that currently have the Blue Dogs and a lot no fencing at all? Did of the new Democrats,” it mean there might be said the Republican some distance between who is taking part in the more moderate Demotalks. “There is broad crats and Pelosi’s intransupport within (Pelosi’s) sigence?

Letters

Your opinion is important and welcome. Every

letter must be signed. It must contain your name, address and phone number where the author can be reached during the day. The phone number and address will not be published. Typed letters of 250 words or less are preferred. The letters are subject to editing, and none will be returned. Unused letters will not be acknowledged. Letters should be sent to: Letters to the Editor, The Daily Ardmoreite, P.O. Box 1328, Ardmore, OK 73402. Letters may be also faxed to (580) 226-0050 or e-mailed to letters2editor@ ardmoreite.com.

university,” Gallogly said. Gallogly has slashed expenses and reduced staff to address years of overspending since becoming OU president last July. He criticized the university’s debt load exceeding $1 billion , asserting OU was on track to lose another $15 million this fiscal year without changes.

By Bruce Tinsley

FRIDAY, March 29, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

2019 AREA AMAZING TEACHER

Staying in school McClendon honored as Area Amazing Teacher By Rhiannon Saegert rhiannon.saegert@ardmoreite.com

In many ways Maverick McClendon, Area Teacher of the Year, has been preparing to be a teacher his whole life, but he almost chose an entirely different career. McClendon, who has degrees in mathematics and education and is certified in special education, has only been teaching for three years. Now, he’s coach of the Plainview district’s Special Olympics team, helped jumpstart the district’s robotics team and shows no signs of slowing down. “It was an honor just to be nominated and I can’t believe I actually got it,” McClendon said. “It’s an honor to be recognized for doing something well. Where I’m at now, you can’t beat it. I love what I do, and I wouldn’t want to change that for the world.” He’s taught AP physics, calculus, anatomy and physiology courses in the past, but switched gears to teach special education this year. McClendon said while he’s enjoyed teaching other subjects, this might be his favorite role yet. “I tell everyone this: With these kids,

“For as long as I can remember, I’ve always been teaching Sunday school or children’s church and things of that nature. I’ve always had that opportunity to try and teach.” — Maverick McClendon

it’s a learning experience,” McClendon said. “One of the reasons I became a teacher is that I like to learn. I want to be one of those people that’s always learning something new, and every day, every class period, every hour, it’s all different.” He said teaching special education is unlike anything else, because in every class period he’s teaching students of every age, at varying skill levels and with different needs. “It’s tough, it’s an experience but it’s worth it,” McClendon said. I feel like they teach me just as much as I teach them. For me, that’s the most rewarding part of it all.” He said for now, he plans to continue SEE MCCLENDON, PAGE 6C

From left: Ardmoreite managing editor Robby Short, Scott Pope from Arbuckle Communications, 2019 Area Amazing Teacher Maverick McClendon, Todd Myers from Ideal Home Care and Erica Watkins from Hunter Super Techs, presented McClendon with the Amazing Teacher plaque Wednesday at Plainview High School. Sponsors for the Ardmoreite 2019 Amazing Teacher Contest include Arbuckle Communications, Hunter Super Techs, Ideal Home Care, DIB Chiropractic and Wellness, Solley’s Collision Center, First Bank and Trust, UPS, American Nation Bank, First National Bank, DOT, Sen. Frank Simpson and Rep. Tammy Townley. RHIANNON SAEGART/THE ARDMOREITE

REGIONAL AMAZING TEACHER

Lessons in life Fulton named 2019 Regional Amazing Teacher By Drew Butler Drew.butler@ardmoreite.com

For nearly two decades, Sheila Fulton has been a fixture at Wilson Public Schools. For 18 years she taught at Wilson Elementary, and though she taught a variety of grades and subjects, her primary specialty was forth and fifth grade math and science. A life long resident of Wilson, Fulton — The Ardmoreite’s 2019 Regional Amazing Teacher winner — and her husband Carlen have five sons ranging in age from eight to 26. After having her fifth son, Fulton decided she needed to take a break. However, she never truly left the school. “Even though I wasn’t there teaching, I was there almost every day doing things with the kids,” Fulton said. “You can never really separate yourself from it.” Last year she officially returned to teaching, and she now teaches an wide range of elective courses at Wilson Middle School and Wilson High School. One of her classes is a life skills class for seventh graders, and she has

“We’re not doing this because it’s an assignment. Yes, you have to do it well, but not for me and not just for a grade. These are things we can use in life, and we want to do the best we can.” — Sheila Fulton

taken a unique, hands-on approach to the subject. At the beginning of the year she has the class imagine they are stranded on a desert island where they are to begin a new civilization. As the school year progresses, so does their civilization. This allows Fulton to cover a wide range of subjects ranging from government, to cooking, to interviewing for a job. “I thought it would be a little more fun to take the whole year and make something meaningful of it instead of just breaking it up into sections,” Fulton said. SEE FULTON, PAGE 6C

“Education is the most powerful weapon we can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela

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From left: Ardmoreite managing editor Robby Short, Scott Pope from Arbuckle Communications, 2019 Regional Amazing Teacher Shelia Fulton, Todd Myers from Ideal Home Care, Brenda Cartwright Alexander from American Nation Bank and Erica Watkins from Hunter Super Techs, presented Fulton with the Amazing Teacher plaque Wednesday at Wilson High School. Sponsors for the Ardmoreite 2019 Amazing Teacher Contest include Arbuckle Communications, Hunter Super Techs, Ideal Home Care, DIB Chiropractic and Wellness, Solly’s Collision Center, First Bank and Trust, UPS, American Nation Bank, First National Bank, Solley’s Collision Center, DOT, Sen. Frank Simpson and Rep. Tammy Townley. DREW BUTLER/ THE ARDMOREITE

FRIDAY, March 29, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

2019 AREA NOMINEES

Steve Day, Dickson Public Schools Steve Day, teacher and coach at Dickson, was nominated for his sensitive heart when interacting with children. He is never overly critical or harsh with his students. He stands beside them with an understanding and sympathetic ear and is always willing to lend hand of support. His students admire, trust and respect him STEVE and they regularly look up to DAY him for encouraging support. “They seek him for advice because Steve has proven to these kids that his support of them is unwavering, nominator Megan Day said. “He will continue to support these children as they graduate and begin to build a life of their own

Salute to the 2019 Amazing Teachers Editor’s note: The Ardmoreite would like to congratulate all of the teachers nominated for the 2019 Area and Regional Amazing Teacher Awards. Many of the nominations we received talked about the commitment and dedication it takes to be a teacher and the lifelong influence a teacher can have on a child. Nominations were submitted by students, former students, friends and family members of educators currently on the job. An online voting process garnered significant participation and more than a 1,000 total votes. The two catego-

ries are Area teachers, which include Dickson, Lone Grove, Ardmore and Plainview Schools, and Regional teachers that are part of school districts within a 40 mile radius of Ardmore or The Ardmoreite’s circulation coverage area. The two winning teachers received a plaque and a $300 cash prize in addition to being featured in this special pull out section. Additionally, this section profiles all of the teachers that were nominated. The Ardmoreite thanks all educators, administrators and support staff that work with southern

Oklahoma children on a daily basis. And a big thank you to all of our Amazing Teachers sponsors that made these awards possible: Arbuckle Communications, Hunter Super Techs, Ideal Home Care, DIB Chiropractic and Wellness, First Bank and Trust, UPS, American Nation Bank, First National Bank, Solley’s Collision Center, DOT, Sen. Frank Simpson and Rep. Tammy Townley. “A good teacher can inspire hope, ignite the imagination, and instill a love of learning.” — Brad Henry

because Steve is a community builder, and encourager, and a believer that any person can be an over-comer and an achiever when you apply yourself and put in the necessary time and work to create something incredible.” Day has had a strong impact Follow us at Facebook or at ardmoreite.com for and will continue to be a lastmore opportunities to recognize the contributions of ing role model in the Dickson amazing southern Oklahoma residents community. “We need leaders, teachers, coaches, community builders like him Chauvin Aaron, Ardmore High School to rise up and develop a strong comChauvin Aaron currently serves member for local nonprofit munity of supporters for the future of as the associate director of fine arts Restoring Lives, an organithese kiddos,” Megan said. “Steve is and director of bands at Ardmore zation focused on helping deserving of this honor. He is such an High School children and families. Aarinspirational and humble gentleman.” Aaron, a graduate of the Union attends, and sometimes versity of Oklahoma and Lamar presents, at numerous conUniversity, displays not only excelferences locally and at the Donna Stanton, Ardmore Middle School lent teaching skills but communistate Capitol, with the intent of helping better himself and Donna Stanton received Stanton is a Special Olympics ty-minded leadership as well. Aaron, was nominated for his the educational environment several nominations for her coach and advocate, taking her teaching skills along with commufor his students at Ardmore more than 30 years of service class to competitive events all CHAUVIN High School. He also stays with special needs students at over the state for the past 35 nity-minded leadership. AARON He leads the community band, connected through church Ardmore Middle School. She years. and civic activities. continually challenges her stu“Donna stresses the impor- comprised of youth and adult students from the area. That group performs Through his various involvements, dents to exceed both academitance of being a responsible, cally and physically. hard-working worker in any oc- upon request at various events, including Aaron has been instrumental in filling “She encourages her stucupation they choose,” Kinder a Veterans Day program at the Ard- the community with a sense of spirit and dents in everything they do,” said. “Her students are taught more Veterans Center. Aaron is a board togetherness that had been lacking. nominator Cindy Huddleston daily living skills, cooking, and said. “She challenges them to DONNA cleaning skills, reading and comThelesa Taylor, Dickson Public Schools exceed their limitations both STANTON prehension, math, science, hisacademically and physically tory, social studies and sportsMusic teachers often have the least Amazing Teacher for her approach to by being very involved with Special manship and financial responsibilities. amount of exposure to a large teaching. She was described as Olympics.” Stanton also teaches Sunday school, number of student due the knowledgeable, kind, compas“Donna Stanton is not only an excel- while spending her Saturdays at work- specialization of the study and sionate and as someone willing lent teacher, but a mentor. She gives her shops learning new skills. the limiting factors often asto give up much more than that students one-on-one attention, loves “A Special Education teacher has to sociated with extracurricular which is required of her time. all equally, guides them intellectually, be a unique individual, and Donna is activities and the study of the Taylor also gives special attenand pushes them to do their best,” perfectly suited for her job,” Kinder said. arts. tion to each person and is the nominator Judy Kinder said. “She “Ardmore Middle School is fortunate to That limited exposure didn’t music director in her church. teaches the value of moral character, have a devoted teacher and so are the keep Dickson’s music teacher “She is knowledgeable, kind, citizenship, honesty and caring about children of Ardmore that have special Thelesa Taylor from making compassionate, giving much themselves and others. Donna loves her needs. Her heart is in her occupation an impact on her community THELESA more than required of her job, gives 100 percent in and out of the and filled with love for children. She is of students who have studied TAYLOR time,” nominator Estelle Fete classroom.” simply awesome!” under her. said. “She gives special attenTaylor was nominated for Area tion to each person.”

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2019

2018 AREA AMAZING TEACHER

Above: Teacher Carol McLean (back row center) is shown with her class and The Ardmoreite’s 2018 Area Amazing Teacher Contest sponsors Rep. Tammy Townley (back row left), Kevin Butler from American Nation Bank, Kimberly Shaw from Hunter Heat and Air and Ardmoreite Managing Editor Robby Short. ARDMOREITE FILE PHOTO

2018 REGIONAL AMAZING TEACHER

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Supporting Education in Southern Oklahoma

2019

Frank

SIMPSON

REGIONAL NOMINEES

LaDonna Whatley-Peal, Fox Elementary School

LADONNA WHATLEY-PEAL

Fox Kindergarten teacher LaDonna Whatley-Peal was nominated for her efforts in early childhood education. Whatley-Peal teaches children to read, write, and tell time on a clock, and a number of other first contact subjects. She also manages to teach while making sure her students have fun. “In such a short time my child has learned to read and test on library books, tell time on a clock, learn and test on sight words and they

are learning to write simple sentences along with other things that I’m sure I have left out,” nominator Kristi Newell said. “She has taught them a lot, but she does make sure they have fun too. The class parties she has put together for the holidays were so much fun. The kids had a blast. I am just extremely thankful for her and everything she does for the kids. She is very kind and sweet and the kids just love her.”

Christie Wharton, Wilson Elementary School Wilson 3rd grade teacher Christie Wharton was nominated for her commitment to her students and the community. Wharton is also a legacy teacher, coming from a family of educators; her grandfather was Hap Cox who coached at Turner. Her strong family roots in education can be traced back

more than 60 years, and she uses those roots to include additional resources in her classroom hosting experienced guests who provide insight to her students. “Excellent teacher,” Ken Pages said. “She is from a great family of educators and her grandfather was Hap Cox, my coach at Turner.”

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Michele Glidewell, Wilson Elementary School Wilson 1st grade teacher Michele Glidewell was nominated for her love of her students. Glidewell was noted for her efforts of showing love to each child and her caring approach to education. Glidewell recently joined Wilson Public Schools after previously having taught at Lone Grove Public Schools.

Her teaching style is noted as being tender with the children, even siting on the floor to help them learn. She has been very “amicable” to do what she has to do to reach her students. “She shows love to each child, which is now needed in this world,” nominator Ken Page said.

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2019

Robin Waters, Southern Tech Robin Waters, Therapeutic Services instructor at Southern Tech, was nominated for her efforts in guiding students in the basics in phlebotomy, and medical assisting. She helps her students develop a foundation for a career in nursing, while pushing them to succeed in other ROBIN WATERS aspects of their lives. “I went to Southern Tech for two years and every year was a great learning experience for me,” nominator Ashley Eades said. “I would of thought that the clinical medical assisting class would of been hard just by reading and saying the name. Mrs. Robin Waters is an excellent teacher, she really cares for and about her students. Each and every one

of us could never say anything bad about her because she was always there for us, whether it was inside the classroom or out. She truly gives teaching everything she has and I think it’s about time we show her some love and thank her for pushing us so hard and for showing us that someone does really care about our education. “During my last year of high school, Mrs. Waters helped me advance my career by teaching me the basics in phlebotomy, and medical assisting,” nominator Caitlen Langley said. “Without her I would not have any foundation for which I hold my future. Nursing has always been a dream of mine, and I am thankful to have such brilliant teachers such as herself to enable me to succeed in every aspect of my life.”

Kristal McCathern and Amber Pershica, Southern Tech

AMBER PERSHICA

Kristal McCathern and Amber Pershica were nominated together for their efforts in higher education at Southern Tech. The team helps prepare their students with a valued trade skill with hands-on experience in cosmetology. “They are the perfect team,” nominator Sherrill Caddel said. “They compliment each other so well and they each bring forth so much knowledge and experience that I would not be able to pick just one. These KRISTAL two instructors have taught me so much and MCCATHERN helped me launch my career.”

REGIONAL NOMINEES

Susie Morales, Southern Tech Susie Morales is an inthey become a part of in later structor in the Licensed studies. Mrs. Morales is profesPractical Nursing Program sional, timely, fair and most imat Southern Tech. portantly understanding. She is Morales was noted as always available for help and enone who always pushes her sures her students move through students while giving them the program more prepared than the knowledge needed to be they need to be. She consistently successful. follows up with the students and “Mrs. Morales exemplifinds ways to reach each student fied all the qualities of both SUSIE to bring out not only the best in an instructor, as well as a MORALES the student, but the future nurse nurse,” nominator Terry L also. Mrs Morales is articulate Owens said. “She is incredibly talent- and funny which helps tremendously ed in ensuring her students learn the during some of the harder content she content of the lessons and skills as well teaches. “ as the overarching concepts in which

Jeff McCathern, Southern Tech Jeff McCathern was nominated for his efforts with students and their families. McCathern is a diesel technology instructor at Southern Tech where he teaches his students a highly coveted trade with long-term career opportunities. McCathern was nominated by the parent of former student, Chase Pitmon, who was killed in a car crash in June

2018. Pitmon was a student of McCathern in 2013-2014 and 2014-2015. Pitmon’s mother Sharyne Pitmon nominated McCathern to honor both. “He was a great instructor and Chase was proud to be in his program in 2013-2014 and 2014-2015,” nominator JEFF Sharyne Pitmon said. “If I can, MCCATHERN please let this be his vote for a very deserving teacher.”

Anthony Bilyeu, Southern Tech Anthony Bilyeu was nomisaid. “His ability to work with nated for his efforts in creating students of all skill levels at the an “excellent classroom envisame time certainly impressed ronment” for students to learn me. His class was always interwhile teaching a CAD Design esting and fun, and he kept evMechanical Specialist course. eryone engaged. He continues Bilyeu teaches students the bato be a great resource for me, sics and standards of drafting, and when I have any questions while allowing them to go far concerning CAD he is always beyond with creative opportuthere to help. Mr. Bilyeu genANTHONY nities. uinely cares about his students “As an adult student, I found BILYEU and likes to hear about how him to be one of the most prothings are going with us, and fessional and helpful instructors I have especially wants to know how our time ever had,” nominator Randy Kennedy in his class has affected our careers.”

Dayna Stephens, Southern Tech Tracie Kelch, Southern Tech Tracie Kelch is a nursing instructor at Southern Tech. She was nominated for her above-and-beyond efforts with her students. Kelch was noted as being very helpful, and having her own unique way of teaching that conveyed a lot of information in a way that was easy for students to absorb.

Dayna Stephens was nominated by a student in her video production class. Stephens helps expose area students to a wide range of career opportunities in digital arts, where she does more than just teach, she guides her students. Stephens invests in her students’ lives and is always willing to listen to the questions.

“I would say the amazing teacher for nursing assistant would be Mrs. Kelch,” nominator Lauren Almaraz said. “Mrs. Kelch is an amazing instructor and is very helpful. She really taught a lot of information but was good at it and had her ways. I appreciate all that she taught me.”

“Mrs. Dayna Stephens did more than just teach me with things like digital film and editing, she guided me,” nominator Matthew Forsythe said. “Not many teachers invest their personal lives and attention so much like she did with me and several other students that were in my class, as well as, past students over the years.” DAYNA

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REGIONAL NOMINEES CONTINUED

2019

FULTON Continued from Page 1C

The first lessons covered scarcity and building shelters, but quickly their civilization advanced to the point that they were forming a government. They also created banners, symbols, and a currency for their new country. “It’s neat to see them all working,” Fulton said. “It pulls in everyone. Not just your top math kid; not just your great writer. It pulls in your artist; it pulls in students with musical talents because they ask if they can write a song.” “The kids do it all on their own. They decided how to vote, and at first they voted in a leader who told everyone what to do — basically a dictator,” Fulton said. “As a teacher you want to say that’s not going to work, but that’s not the best policy. You let them fail, and then they start saying this is not right. We don’t like this. One person shouldn’t tell us what to do.” She said failures like this led the students into researching what a democracy really means and if that’s how they wanted to run their society. The class structure also provides the opportunity for multiple field trips throughout the school year. While the students are learning about cooking, they go to the grocery store to purchase supplies and are then invited to Fulton’s house to prepare their meals. “They are given a certain amount of money to purchase supplies. They have to make a grocery list, and when they go in they compare prices and check nutritional values,” Fulton said. “Then they come to my house, and they all have little stations spread out to prepare their food.” Another field trip involved going to Gramps Ice Cream and Diner in Wilson to earn experience interviewing for a job. This was a culmination of writing resumes and cover letters and filling out job applications. “We practice interviewing in the classroom, and then we go and the owner actually interviews them,” Fulton said. “It’s really good to watch them interact.” At Wilson High School, Fulton teaches a course in media where students

Dr. Fiona McAlister, Southern Tech

Dr. Fiona McAlister, biowants you to succeed. technology teacher at Southern “Dr. Mac takes the time with Tech, was born in Australia each of her students to make and came to the United States sure that they understand what to work as a research scientist at they need to, to make sure they Noble Research Institute before take advantage of all opportufinding that teaching was her nities offered, and to see their true passion. She has a doctorpersonal as well as educational ate in Molecular Biology and development grow,” Pac said. Biochemistry as well as under“Dr. Mac was recently diagnosed “It’s neat to see them all graduate degrees in Agricultural DR. FIONA with cancer and is going through working. It pulls in everyone. and Natural Resource Sciences. MCALISTER Chemotherapy, and a really Not just your top math kid; “I hear a lot of people who say tough surgery process. While not just your great writer. It their teachers are the smartest, funniest, going through all this, she has continued and most super-human of all teachers,” to remain steadfast in her commitment pulls in your artist; it pulls nominator Caleb Pac said. “This is not to her God, her family, and her students.” in students with musical the case with Dr. Mac, as her students “This award isn’t something Dr. Mac talents because they ask if affectionately call her. She is a humble, needs to make her a great teacher, she is restrained, and very determined person. that already,” Pac said. “I learned much they can write a song.” She keeps her classes light and funny, yet more than Biotechnology from Dr. Mac, — Sheila Fulton she also requires that you work to learn and I hope many other students, and the learn about journalism and video ed- the material, and above all, she truly community around her can as well. iting. chance to teach classes and, in his “When I was in college I was the words, fell in love with teaching. Coineditor of the Southeastern paper, so I cidentally, his mother was earning her have some background in newspaper Continued from Page 1C degree at the same time. writing,” Fulton said. “We write newspa“We were supposed to graduate the per articles, and our goal is to celebrate in special education, which he consid- same year, so I said, “You know what, success at Wilson Public Schools.” this is her time to shine,’” McClendon The students’ articles cover the high ers a uniquely rewarding experience. “It’s not a class that you’re going to said. “So I got another degree in eduschool, middle school, elementary, student organizations and athletic teams. get in there and it’s the same thing ev- cation and now I teach.” He graduated in 2016 and first taught The articles are then posted on the ery single day,” McClendon said. “Plus, “What’s Happening at Wilson High the kids there are incredible. They’re at Marietta Public Schools before comSchool” mural, sometimes appearing in always excited, they’re ready to learn.” ing to Plainview. Though he’s relatively new to special “I had people that told me not to do the Ardmoreite. education, McClendon also took on the (teaching), it had this stigma on it, but In her media class, the students also learn about editing videos. While Fulton role of special olympics coach this year. you don’t go into it for the money, you “That’s been a learning experience go into it because you want to help admits this is not her specialty, she said for me as well, the confidentiality, the people,” McClendon said. “You want to she is enjoying learning this skill along with her students. A portion of this rules,” McClendon said. “It’s all stuff I teach people how to be better citizens learning involved a trip to Southern studied in college, but until you really for our society.” Outside of the classroom, he raises Tech to sit in on some of their classes. get into it you just don’t know. It’s the mini-pigs, and his family works closely Fulton said that the most challenging same with teaching any class.” McClendon, whose mother worked with local rescues and is certified to part of her job is keeping the students as a school paraprofessional for years, care for some wild animals. Squirrels, engaged in the course work and making them realize they are learning skills said he grew up valuing education. He coyotes, foxes, raccoons and at least one that they will be using for the rest of said as he got older, his involvement skunk have all stayed with McClendon’s at church gave him his first teaching family. their lives. “We can rehabilitate them and those “We’re not doing this because it’s an opportunities. “For as long as I can remember, I’ve kinds of things, so it’a a great experiassignment,” Fulton said. “Yes, you have to do it well, but not for me and not just always been teaching Sunday school ence, and sometimes it’s just work,” for a grade. These are things we can or children’s church and things of that McClendon said. While he still cares for animals, Mcuse in life, and we want to do the best nature,” McClendon said. “I’ve always had that opportunity to try and teach.” Clendon said he intends to stick with we can.” In 2012, McClendon was on track teaching. He said now more than ever, Fulton said she is always looking for to become a veterinarian at Oklaho- in an era of rampant misinformation new ways to reach students and coming up with ideas to make her classes both ma State University, until a course on online, he feels teaching is more imeuthanasia made him realize the job portant than ever. educational and fun. “I want people to get back to a point “You don’t just want to be creative would never be for him. “I could not make myself do it,” Mc- where they want to learn,” McClendon and innovative for three-fourths of said. “I want them to want to do some your students,” Fulton said. “You want Clendon said. A family tragedy later that year critical thinking, some analytical thinkto reach 100 percent, so we’re always searching for ways to draw in every prompted him to move closer to home. ing, on their own. They just need a little When he started his mathematics debit of guidance to get there.” student.” gree at Southeastern, he got his first

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OPINION

QUESTIONS? Contact publisher Kim Benedict at (580) 223-2200 or kim.benedict@ardmoreite.com

OUR VIEW

Preps banquet shines light on athletes, community

banquet hall packed with top quality student athletes and coaches, supported by parents, family and school staff made for a great evening Tuesday night. The Ardmoreite’s Best of the Arbuckles Preps Banquet was over 500 strong in attendance. In addition to the awards presented, Brian “The Boz” Bosworth, an OU football legend and former NFL player, took center stage to talk about his career in sports and the impact that it had on his life. Many of the student athletes that attended have signed with various colleges and universities to continue their sports career at the collegiate level. Equally impressive is the academic record that many of these athletes have also achieved. And we all know that while competitive athletes are generally self driven — they just seem to have an internal engine that keeps them motivated — their road is made easier by the support and guidance of invested parents, family members, coaches and friends. We can tell you it’s an impressive sight to see so many people turn out to recognize and celebrate the achievements of these young adults. It’s also impressive the number of sponsors that stepped up to make this event possible. While The Ardmoreite staff plans, manages and executes the event, we couldn’t do it without the financial support of so many local businesses. Our major sponsors ,The Chickasaw Nation, Glenn Polk Autoplex, Full Plate Living and Kerr Pumps were all returning sponsors. Presenting sponsors were Bramlett Insurance Agency, Builder Bob’s, Cable One, Citizens Bank & Trust, Henry Roberts Express Pharmacy, Ideal Home Care, Mercy – Ardmore, Solley’s Collision Center and Todd’s Lake Country. Allied Services and Storts Family Dentistry invested in recognizing Athlete’s of the Week during the school year. We appreciate the willingness of these businesses to support and attend the banquet and encourage our banquet attendees to please thank these businesses if they have the opportunity. Rhonda’s Catering, as always, did a great job, moving 500+ people through the buffet line in less than 30 minutes and the food was excellent. We also have had a great relationship with the staff at the Ardmore Convention Center. If you haven’t hosted an event there it’s a great place to make it happen. And last, but certainly not least, thanks to The Ardmoreite staff, particularly our sports editor Evan Grice and reporter Matt Berger who work hard to cover high school sports in multiple locations and venues. It takes almost everyone in our building to make the event happen and we appreciate their commitment to making it an excellent evening. We’ve wrapped up the 3rd Annual Best of the Arbuckles Preps Banquet and will be working on the 4th. Thanks again to everyone that had a part in making the evening a success from our attending athletes and guests to sponsors and support staff. Good luck to the seniors in their future endeavors and we look forward to the incoming group of outstanding student athletes!

Moderately Confused

GUEST COLUMN

Trump’s spying complaint will come to ... Nothing T wo or three news cycles back, the Prevaricator in Chief made a shocking allegation. Or, that is to say, a charge that would be astonishing and unsettling coming from any president but him: “My Campaign for President was conclusively spied on,” Trump thundered on Twitter. “Nothing like this has ever happened in American Politics. A really bad situation. TREASON means long jail sentences, and this was TREASON!” Coming only days after Attorney General William Barr tasked a U.S. attorney with reviewing (yet again) the origins of the FBI’s Trump-Russia investigation, the allegation was nonsense on its face. As defined in Article III of the U.S. Constitution, “Treason against the United States, shall consist only in levying War against them, or in adhering to their Enemies, giving them Aid and Comfort.” It’s punishable by death. But a presidential campaign is not the United States. Constitutionally speaking, it’s essentially nothing. As usual, Trump was simply blowing smoke. Even so, some of his detractors took the bait. CNN legal commentator Jeffrey Toobin called the president’s outburst a “grotesque abuse of power.” Grotesque, yes. Also ridiculous. Because it’s highly unlikely that anything’s going to happen. The attorney general’s various pronouncements on the topic of government “spying” appear calculated to appeal to an audience of one: Trump himself.

In media interviews, Barr is careful to include a lawyerly escape hatch, stipulating that what’s normally called “surveillance” when investigators secure GENE legal warrants to LYONS conduct it may indeed have been justifiable. It’s a cagey game he’s playing. But so far, only a game. Trump was at it again at a WWE-style campaign rally in Pennsylvania the other night, accusing FBI officials of treason while an enraptured crowd chanted “Lock them up!” (Earlier, they’d jeered “Lock her up!” at the mention of Hillary Clinton’s name.) He praised Barr, asserting that the AG would soon unmask the dark conspiracy against him. That’s never going to happen for essentially the same reason Hillary Clinton has never been prosecuted for her imagined crimes. Bringing (pardon me) “Trumped-up” charges against prominent individuals with the wherewithal to defend themselves endangers the prosecution more than the defendant. We don’t yet have show trials in the United States. Trump can boast all he wants about serving several terms. He did that in Pennsylvania too. But that’s not happening either. According to believers, the linchpin of the alleged anti-Trump conspiracy is former FBI Director James Comey. You remember Comey, right? He’s the ace investigator who wrongly announced that the feds had dug up

shocking new evidence in the Hillary Clinton email probe 10 days before the election — thereby costing her the presidency, many believe. Meanwhile, the agency kept its “Crossfire Hurricane” probe of Trump staffers’ connections to Russian intelligence operatives very quiet. Which you’ve got to admit would be an odd way for anti-Trump conspirators to act. Just days before the 2016 election, The New York Times published a front-page article headlined “Investigating Donald Trump, F.B.I. Sees No Clear Link to Russia.” Readers were assured that “even the hacking into Democratic emails, F.B.I. and intelligence officials now believe, was aimed at disrupting the presidential election rather than electing Mr. Trump.” The Mueller Report, of course, concluded exactly the opposite. Electing Trump was Job One at the Kremlin. Meanwhile, the Trump campaign, if it didn’t necessarily participate in a criminal conspiracy, secretly played footsie with Russian intelligence. Its expectation, Mueller concluded, was “that (the campaign) would benefit electorally from information stolen and released through Russian efforts.” And so it very much did. Entirely convinced of his own integrity, Comey has mounted his high horse regarding Barr’s insinuations. “The AG should stop sliming his own Department,” he tweeted. “If there are bad

facts, show us, or search for them professionally and then tell us what you found. An AG must act like the leader of the Department of Justice, an organization based on truth. Donald Trump has enough spokespeople.” So no, none of these alleged traitors is going down easy, which means they’re not going down at all. Expect a murky report filled with legalistic quibbling. But treason? No how, no way. Meanwhile, the latest conspiracy theory getting Trumpists all hot and bothered derives from a book by George Papadopoulos, the fired Trump aide whose barroom braggadocio started the whole fool thing. Entitled “Deep State Target,” it portrays its author as the pigeon in a dastardly plot cooked up not by Russians, but by U.S., British, Israeli and Australian intelligence. History records that it was indeed the perfidious Aussies who tipped U.S. intelligence that a Trump aide was running his mouth in a London bar about the Russians having “dirt” on Hillary Clinton in the form of thousands of stolen emails. He also claimed to be keeping company with Vladimir Putin’s niece, and to be on a first-name basis with Benjamin Netanyahu. Sometimes he makes stuff up, Papadopoulos. Arkansas Times columnist Gene Lyons is a National Magazine Award winner and co-author of “The Hunting of the President” (St. Martin’s Press, 2000). You can email Lyons at eugenelyons2@yahoo.com.

STATE

Lawmakers end early, give new governor policy wins OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — The Oklahoma Legislature finished the session early on

Thursday, ending its first with new Republican Gov. Kevin Stitt, who checked nearly every item off his to-do list and saw the budget for his office more than double. With the help of a rebounding economy and soaring revenues from a package of tax increases approved after a long interparty tussle with his

predecessor, Stitt arrived on the scene with a $600 million budget surplus and a GOP-led Legislature eager to work with him on spending it. Both the House and Senate adjourned Thursday afternoon, well ahead of the May 31 constitutional deadline. The final agreement on the $8.3 billion budget , the

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state’s largest ever, included an additional pay raise for teachers and an extra $200 million into the state’s savings account, both priorities for the CEO-turned-governor. The governor himself got a 121% percent boost in his office’s budget and secured an additional $2 million for repairs to the governor’s mansion and

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millions more for a fund he can use to help lure businesses to the state. “I think it’s been a fantastic session,” Stitt said. “I really feel happy with where we’re at with the savings we got, protecting Oklahomans in the future from another tax increase or cuts to core services.”

By Bruce Tinsley

A supplement of the Ardmoreite Sunday, May 26, 2019

The Ardmoreite’s Best of the Arbuckles sports banquet took place at the Ardmore Convention Center on Tuesday, May 21, and was attended by a crowd of approximately 550. Parents, coaches, family members, educators and fans congregated to honor more than 200 student athletes from 14 schools in 16 different sports. Individual sport players of the year were announced along with coaches of the year and top male and female athletes. University of Oklahoma legend and NFL pro Brian “The Boz” Bosworth was the keynote speaker and spent time during the program visiting with attendees. Thanks to all the area businesses that stepped up to sponsor this event, we couldn’t have done it without them. More photos are available at ardmoreite.com. DYLAN JOHNSON/FOR THE ARDMOREITE

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MALE ATHLETE

Kiser pushes his way to the top Sulphur’s three-sports star finds success through multiple avenues By Evan Grice evan.grice@ardmoreite.com

SULPHUR — One of the most important things in this world is family. To say Sulphur’s Trey Kiser has been blessed with a strong family atmosphere during his time as a Bulldogs athlete would be an accurate statement. Trey Kiser is the 2019 Best of the Arbuckles Preps Male Athlete of the Year. “I couldn’t have asked God for a better senior year,” Kiser said. “This year was probably the best football season I’ve ever had. It was a grind throughout wrestling season, and track was incredible as well. I’m very grateful for the way things turned out because I couldn’t have asked for anything more. “All the attention during the year was nice, don’t get me wrong,” Kiser added. “But at some point you have to learn how to block it all out and focus on the task at hand. You have to put all the cheering to the side because if you don’t then it’s going to stand in the way of your goals, and I didn’t want that.” There was plenty of speculation that the Bulldogs football team was going to be good this past season. What people didn’t realize was how good they were going to be, and in particular how much of an impact Kiser was going to make on both sides of the ball. Sulphur finished the season 12-2, which included an undefeated district championship in district 3A-2. After losing their first game of the year against Cache on the road, the Bulldogs never looked back as they reeled off 11 straight victories to make the state finals for the first time since 2004, before falling to Heritage Hall in the championship game. “To be one of the four teams in the history of Sulphur football to make the state finals is a great accomplishment for myself and my teammates,” Kiser said. “Just being there was so satisfying. It was the greatest thing that could have ever happened. Our fans helped make it an amazing atmosphere for us out there as well.” Kiser had multiple games where he rushed more than 100 yards. He finished the year with a total of 2,572

yards and 39 touchdowns. He also totaled 131 tackles on defense with 13 of them for loss, along with eight sacks and three fumble recoveries. Because of his talents, Kiser was chosen as an All-State selection for the West team at the linebacker position, as well as the 2019 Best of the Arbuckles Preps football MVP, but his fantastic athletic year was just getting started. After finishing fourth his junior year, Kiser was aiming for yet another trip to the state wrestling tournament for his senior year. He did just that, finishing as a regional runner-up in the 182 pound weight class. Kiser fell in his opening match at the state wrestling tournament against Zach Wattenbarger from Vinita, but managed to rebound and defeat Hayden Fry from Morris in his first consolation match with a pin. Unfortunately, Kiser’s run towards another state wrestling medal was cut short as he was defeated in the consolation semifinals against Austin Peri from Newkirk. Kiser was also named as an All-State selection by the Oklahoma Coaches Association for wrestling, and was named to the All-Ardmoreite wrestling team for the 2018-19 season. But the athletic journey had one more stop for Kiser as he made his way into track season. Kiser placed fourth overall at the state meet in Catoosa running the 100 meter dash event with a time of 11.10. He was also a member of the 400 relay team which placed second overall with a time of 43.41 along with TJ Todd, Tavius McDonald and Logan Smith, as well as the 800 meter relay team which placed fourth with a time of 1:32.30 along with McDonald, Todd, and Kyle Stevenson. Kiser also ran on the 1600 meter relay team which finished eighth overall at the state meet with a time of 3:30.92. Kiser was also named to the All-Ardmoreite boys track team this season. “I’m blessed by the grace of God to have had the coaches I’ve had in Sulphur,” Kiser said. “These coaches have done everything for me and have

GIRLS SOCCER

Neil Stitt (left) and Marcus Hahn (right) from Allied Services, present Sulphur High School’s Trey Kiser (center) with the 2019 Ardmoreite All-Star Preps Football Player of the Year award Tuesday at the Ardmore Convention Center. DYLAN JOHNSON /THE ARDMOREITE

“I never thought I’d hear my name associated with these awards I’ve received. There was a lot of competition this season and so many talented players I was going against. I’m just ready to go to NEO and show that I’m ready to play at the next level. It’s about proving myself and I’m prepared to do that.” — Trey Kiser, 2019 Ardmoreite All-Star Preps Football Player of the Year

worked with me since my freshman year. I’m being biased when I say they are the best coaches in the state of Oklahoma, but I believe it fully. Coach (Jim) Dixon and Coach (Corey) Cole have been with me since day one and I can’t thank them enough.” “The community of Sulphur has been amazing as well and given me so much support,” Kiser added. “I’m going to miss performing in front of them, but the fans were tremendous and they blessed me so much. I wouldn’t be here without my family, especially my mom and my brother. We’ve been through everything together and we’ve stuck

together and we’re stronger together because of it.” Kiser will now embark on his newest challenge athletically as he plans to play football for Northeastern Oklahoma this fall. “I never thought I’d hear my name associated with these awards I’ve received,” Kiser said. “There was a lot of competition this season and so many talented players I was going against. I’m just ready to go to NEO and show that I’m ready to play at the next level. It’s about proving myself and I’m prepared to do that.”

Brad (left) and Jessica Solley (right) from Solley’s Collision present Sulphur High School’s Trey Kiser (center) with the 2019 Ardmoreite All-Star Preps football MVP award Tuesday at the Ardmore Convention Center. DYLAN JOHNSON /THE ARDMOREITE

BOYS SOCCER

TJ Riley from Bramlett Insurance Agency presents Ardmore High School’s Ashley Mon- Madill High School’s Isaac Martinez accepts the award for 2019 Ardmoreite All-Star terrosa with the award for 2019 Ardmoreite All-Star Preps Girls Soccer Player of the Preps Boys Soccer Player of the Year from Shawn (center) and Glenn Polk, from Glenn Year at the Ardmore Convention Center. DYLAN JOHNSON /THE ARDMOREITE Polk Autoplex Tuesday at the Ardmore Convention Center. DYLAN JOHNSON /THE ARDMOREITE

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FEMALE ATHLETE A team effort Plainview’s Hobbs pulls off trifecta to win Female Athlete of the Year

By Evan Grice evan.grice@ardmoreite.com

Plainview’s Deryn Hobbs has always been one for spreading a positive message, whether it was through athletics or in the community. But after an outstanding year in which she was part of two state runner-up teams and a state academic championship team, Hobbs managed to stand out all on her own. Deryn Hobbs is the 2019 Female Athlete of the Year for the Best of the Arbuckles Preps. “Honestly I was just shocked and my heart overflows with gratitude,” Hobbs said. “The female athletic community around here is full of strong women, and so many deserving athletes who could have won this award. I hope I can represent them well, because this is a huge honor and it just proves that all my hard work and effort during the year has paid off in a big way.” Aside from being a standout athlete, Hobbs first had to make a name for herself in the classroom when it came to academics. Hobbs walked the stage as the Salutatorian for the Class of 2019 at Plainview High School, finishing with an overall GPA of 4.14. She also scored a 30 on her ACT exam. Athletically this season, Hobbs was a vital part in the success of many teams at Plainview High School. Hobbs was a state qualifier for the Lady Indians cross country team, making her a four time state qualifier for her career, where she was part of the state runner-up squad. Deryn was also a member of the 2017 state championship team for Plainview in cross country. She finished as a four-time state qualifier in track, where she was able to be part of her third state runner-up team this season. Hobbs also was a member of the 3200 relay team which claimed third overall at the state meet in Catoosa along with Madie Turner, Faith Lloyd and her younger sister Hadyn. In the world of cheer, Hobbs was a member of the Lady Indians cheer team which was crowned as the Class 4A state academic champions, they also qualified for the state competition

in Tulsa. The state academic championship made Deryn a two-time state academic champion at Plainview. She was also the only cheerleader in the area to be chosen as an All-Region selection this year, which made her eligible for All-State tryouts, and is a former All-American selection. “I think once graduation passes, I’ll be able to fully appreciate everything I’ve gotten to be apart of this season at Plainview,” Hobbs said. “When all the high intensity training and workouts have stopped, that’s when I’ll be able to relish everything I got to be apart of. We accomplished so much as a group and it’s exciting to think about everyone I got to compete with and be teammates with. “The girls on all of my teams from cross country, track and cheer are some really strong individuals,” Hobbs added. “It’s been a blessing getting to work alongside with such talented women, who don’t settle for being mediocre. They all put in the work and it was a constant fight to obtain success. To have had the opportunity to be pushed by them to be a better athlete and a better person was amazing to me.” One of the strong women Deryn got to compete alongside was her younger sister Hadyn, who will be returning next season for the Lady Indians in multiple sports. “My sister has been the best part of my running career,” Hobbs said. “She has truly pushed me to be the best version of myself. Haydn has always seen something in me that made me want to be better. She made me believe I could be strong and I owe all my success to her. She’s this ball of fire and she will go and get whatever she wants in life. “We were able to get state championships together,” Hobbs added. “Haydn is my best friend, my running buddy and it’s been a blessing getting to be her teammate. Getting to run beside her is arguably my favorite memory from high school I’m taking with me.” Hobbs didn’t just walk away with one award from the Best of Preps banquet, as she made history by being the first ever Cheerleader of the Year recipient. Now with her high school journey in the books, a new adventure awaits the Lady Indians standout as she will be

POWERLIFITING

Plainview High School’s Deryn Hobbs receives the 2019 Ardmoreite All-Star Preps Female Athlete of the Year award from Drs. Lauren and Travis Storts from Storts Family Dentistry Tuesday at the Ardmore Convention Center. DYLAN JOHNSON /THE ARDMOREITE

“The girls on all of my teams from cross country, track and cheer are some really strong individuals. It’s been a blessing getting to work alongside with such talented women, who don’t settle for being mediocre. They all put in the work and it was a constant fight to obtain success. To have had the opportunity to be pushed by them to be a better athlete and a better person was amazing to me.” — Deryn Hobbs, 2019 Ardmoreite All-Star Preps Female Athlete of the Year

attending the University of Oklahoma in Norman. Hobbs also hinted that she might be trying out for the cheer team during her sophomore year. “This is the best ending I could have asked for and it’s so unexpected,” Hobbs said. “I’m so blessed and so thankful. Every bit of it was worth it because of how hard I worked.” “To all of my coaches, thank you so

much for believing me in and dedicating yourselves to our sports and wanting to make us all successful,” Hobbs added. “I couldn’t have done any of this without my parents and they have always encouraged me to be the very best. My parents taught me to not be satisfied with being average, but to be extraordinary. I feel like I’ve done that.” Plainview High School’s Deryn Hobbs receives the 2019 Ardmoreite All-Star Preps award for Player of the Year for cheerleaders. Robby Short from The Ardmoreite presented on behalf of The Chickasaw Nation Tuesday at the Ardmore Convention Center. DYLAN JOHNSON /THE ARDMOREITE

SOFTBALL

Todd Myers From Ideal Home Care presents Lone Grove High School’s Maci McMurtey with the 2019 Ardmoreite All-Star Preps Softball Player of the Year award. DYLAN JOHNSON /THE ARDMOREITE

Bob Crittendon from Builder Bob’s presents Ringling High School’s Parker Phelps with the 2019 Ardmoreite All-Star Preps Powerlifter Of The Year award Tuesday at the Ardmore Convention Center. DYLAN JOHNSON /THE ARDMOREITE

Congratulations to all of the Athletes honored at the Best of the Arbuckles Banquet

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Athletes Above: Brian “The Boz” Bosworth answers questions from Ardmoreite Sports Editor Evan Grice Tuesday during the 2019 Ardmoreite All-Star Preps Banquet at the Ardmore Convention Center. Below: Bosworth signs autographs in the VIP Room. DYLAN JOHNSON /THE ARDMOREITE

We Admire All Your Hard Work & Dedication

Bosworth laughs in the VIP Room with Ardmoreite publisher Kim Benedict before the start of the presentation. SIERRA RAINS /THE ARDMOREITE

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COURAGE AWARD Rising to the top Sulphur’s Presley McClure blocks out noise to win Courage Award By Evan Grice evan.grice@ardmoreite.com

SULPHUR — Actions often times speak much louder than any words. For Sulphur’s Presley McClure, words threatened to derail her dreams of becoming a cheerleader early on in her life. From being told she didn’t fit the typical figure of a cheerleader, to being told that it wasn’t the right path for her, McClure had every insult imaginable thrown at her. Fortunately for the Lady Bulldogs standout, she didn’t listen to a single negative word said to her. Presley McClure is the 2019 Best of the Arbuckles Chickasaw Nation Courage Award winner, for showing outstanding courage in the face of constant negativity, in pursuit of her dreams. “I was in shock to be honest when I heard my name,” Presley said about receiving the award. “To be honest, I didn’t even know this award existed until one of my friends told me about it. I didn’t realize that I’d even be considered for this, or why I’d even be chosen, but I’m very thankful I was.” “It was hard hearing all of those horrible things that were being said to me and about me, I’m not going to lie,” Presley said. “Sometimes your own worst enemy is yourself, and the self doubt that creeps into your mind. After I went through everything though, I realized that as long as I trusted in God and leaned on him, he was going to get me through the tough times.” While she faced more than her fair share of adversity during her time at Sulphur High School, Presley was able to savor just as many good times and accomplishments. In the classroom, Presley finished with a 4.0 GPA and was one of many Sulphur students who graduated with honors as part of the Class of 2019. She also scored a 29 on her ACT exam. Other academic accomplishments

include being the FCCLA Vice President from 2016-19, as well as being a member of the National and Oklahoma Honor Society. On the cheer side of things, Presley was a two-time academic state champion with the Sulphur cheer squad, as well as a two-time national champion with the Oklahoma Outlaws Cheer and Tumble Gymnasium out of Ardmore, along with being an All-Star Cheerleader from 2013-18, and a recipient of the Top Gun Stunt Award. She was also a member of the 2018 All-Ardmoreite cheer team. “It means everything to me that my sister is such a positive role model,” Presley’s sister Payton said. “She really teaches us that no matter what anyone ever says, you can do anything you set your mind to. Presley always made sure everyone was always included and made them feel at home with this cheer squad.” “I’m so thankful my sister was recognized with this award,” Payton added. “This just means that all of her perseverance and hard work was worth it. We’re going to be able to look back and see how special this was together and that means everything to me.” Along with her sister, Presley’s cheer coach at Sulphur Destiny Baker also had plenty of praise for her standout senior, especially when it came to not listening to what anyone had to say. “Presley is one of those athletes that every coach dreams of having on their team,” Baker said. “She’s smart, motivating and such a hard worker and a great role model. Presley was always the first one to roll mats, or get something off the bus. and really did a great job of leading by example.” “It breaks my heart knowing that such horrible things were said to Presley,” Baker added. “At the same time I am so proud of her for not listening to those ridiculous comments. I’d have been super upset had she listened to those people and I’d have missed out on being her coach. To have gotten to

BASKETBALL

The Ardmoreite’s Robby Short presents Sulphur High School’s Presley McClure with the 2019 Best of the Arbuckles Chickasaw Nation Courage Award on behalf of the Chickasaw Nation. DYLAN JOHNSON /THE ARDMOREITE

“It breaks my heart knowing that such horrible things were said to Presley. At the same time I am so proud of her for not listening to those ridiculous comments. I’d have been super upset had she listened to those people and I’d have missed out on being her coach. To have gotten to be a coach to someone like Presley who is beautiful, strong and one of the best hard working cheerleaders I’ve ever seen has been an honor and a privilege.” — Destiny Baker, Sulphur High School cheer coach

be a coach to someone like Presley who is beautiful, strong and one of the best hard working cheerleaders I’ve ever seen has been an honor and a privilege.” While Presley’s high school cheer journey might be over, her cheer journey still has plenty of positivity left to spread. Earlier this month, Presley traveled to Ada and tried out for the East Central University cheer squad. To no one’s surprise, the Sulphur senior shined and earned a spot on the squad, further cementing her legacy as a successful cheerleader. “It was like a dream come true finding out I made the squad at ECU,” Presley said. “I always wanted to cheer in college, and to have the opportunity to do it now is amazing to me.” Presley will be studying to become a pharmacist while attending East Central University.

“It feels amazing knowing my story has had such an impact on people,” Presley said. “I hope that everyone who needs to hear this story will hear it. I hope this motivates people to keep going no matter what they are facing and to know that God is always with you through the bad times.” “I don’t think I’ll ever completely understand how much I actually effect people,” Presley added. “I hope that I’m having a positive impact on people, and that my actions are stronger than what I can say to them. My sister (Payton) and Coach (Destiny) Baker have had such an impact on me. I’ll never be able to fully express to either of them how much they have meant to me, and how much they have pushed me to be a better person. I love them both and I’m thankful for everything they’ve done for me.”

You ran ~ hit ~ jumped ~ kicked ~ and scored your way into our hearts this year.

Congratulations to you all!

Plainview High School’s Blake Nowell accepts the award for the 2019 Ardmoreite AllStar Preps Boys Basketball Player of the Year from Bill Moore from Express Pharmacy. Nowell was unable to attend the banquet due to prior commitments. SUBMITTED PHOTO

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FIGHTING HEART

Tough as nails Dickson’s Shanna McKown shoulders load to Fighting Heart Award By Evan Grice evan.grice@ardmoreite.com

DICKSON — Sometimes a persons passion can overcome the most difficult circumstances, even immense pain. Dickson’s Shanna McKown knows all about this, as she experienced it first hand this softball season. Or more specifically, her shoulder did. McKown played the entire fast pitch season with a torn labrum in her shoulder, before pushing it past the limit in slow pitch season to the point she had to be shut down before further damage occurred. Shanna McKnown is the 2019 Glenn Polk Autoplex Fighting Heart Award winner for the Best of the Arbuckles Preps. “Honestly my reaction was very shocked and surprised,” McKown said. “I’m never one to say that I deserve something, because I always feel like there’s someone more deserving. But I am very thankful for this honor because I have gone through so many ups and downs with my knee and my shoulder so this really does mean a lot to me.” “When I had knee surgery, I was very discouraged and worried about if I could get back to 100 percent,” McKown said. “Coach (Kristin) Williams coming in really helped me, and she was able to get my mental strength up 200 percent with as much running as we did. I knew that if my teammates saw me pushing through my pain, it would inspire them to do the same.” Coming into the season, McKown was already familiar with fighting through pain as she did it her junior year with a knee injury which required surgery in the offseason. Despite all of her pain though, it was never about what the Lady Comets senior wanted personally, but it always came down to what she could do for her team to make them better. “Shanna earned this award without a doubt,” Dickson coach Kristin Williams said. “She worked hard from the very beginning, and overcame so much. It says a lot about her character that she would sacrifice so much for her team and for me to make us better.” “Having Shanna as a leader on our team this season was awesome,” Williams added. “We’re really going to miss her because she set the bar so high. The way she would sacrifice her body for the team shows how much mental toughness she has, and I believe to get anywhere in life you have to have a certain amount of mental strength.

“Having Shanna as a leader on our team this season was awesome. We’re really going to miss her because she set the bar so high. The way she would sacrifice her body for the team shows how much mental toughness she has, and I believe to get anywhere in life you have to have a certain amount of mental strength. I’m super proud of her and we’re really going to miss her.”

Above: Dickson coach Stephen Day (right) accepts the 2019 Glenn Polk Autoplex Fighting Heart Award from Shawn (left) and Glenn Polk (Center) on behalf of Dickson’s Shanna McKown Tuesday during the 2019 Ardmoreite All-Star Preps banquet at the Ardmore Convention Center. Below: McKown had to leave the event early due to a family emergency but later returned to accept the award from The Ardmoreite’s Robby Short on behalf of Glenn Polk Autoplex. DYLAN JOHNSON /THE ARDMOREITE

— Dickson coach Kristin Williams

I’m super proud of her and we’re really going to miss her.” This season, Dickson barely missed out on the regional tournament as they finished fifth in district 3A-2, just one game outside of a playoff berth. The Lady Comets did finish above .500 though with a 16-14 overall record. As for McKown, she finished with 67 strikeouts on the mound with just 10 walks and totaled a 2.1 ERA for the season. She also had a .906 fielding percentage, along with a .297 batting average at the plate which included 19 hits for the season. McKown was rewarded though for her hard work and performance during the season, as she was named to the 2018-19 All-Ardmoreite fast pitch softball team, making her a two-time member of the team as she made the squad in 2017-18 as well. McKown was also awarded the Fighting Heart award this season at the Dickson High School softball banquet by none other than her coach. “Coach Williams gave me the tough love approach, and I knew she believed in me,” McKown said. “Jadyn (McKenzie) was my right hand on the field. When she would feel pain I would feel it. She’s one of the best players I’ve ever gotten to be a teammate with, and I’m grateful for her.” But it wasn’t until slow pitch season that McKown pushed herself over the edge. True to her nature, McKown threw caution to the wind during a routine game and dove for a ball to make a play for her team. But, after then realizing what she had done in the moment, McKown just missed making a diving catch, landing awkwardly, effectively ending her slow

pitch season. “Having Shanna as a teammate meant everything to me,” Dickson senior Jaydn McKenzie said. “I know I couldn’t have been the same player without her. She was in so much pain all the time and that hurt me emotionally. I’m so proud of her though because of how she fought through so much.” “I didn’t think she would be able to come back from her knee surgery, because they did a lot,” McKenzie added. “But she did, and she proved all of us wrong. Shanna is my best friend, and we’ve had our ups and downs. She’s one of the best pitchers Dickson has ever seen, and I couldn’t have asked for anyone more inspiring to share my senior season with than her.” As for the future, softball in college

is on hold for now when it comes to McKown as she will be attending Rose State College in Midwest City. “I feel like everyone who has been in my life has impacted me,” McKown said. “I’ve never really taken the time to realize how much of an impact I’ve had on other people. But I can see that I probably have impacted some peoples lives because of all the adversity I faced and all the pain I fought through.” “Pain is pain and I know that it hurts,” McKown said. “My advice to the younger girls would be to take care of yourselves and don’t be afraid to do therapy to keep yourself in shape. Having a good support system also helps as well. I hope people can read my story and feel inspired to fight through.”

BASEBALL

Evan Grice, (left) from the Ardmoreite, Trey Rateliff (center left) and Jerold Phillips (right) from Citizens Bank And Trust present Planview High School’s Britton Sperry (center right) with the 2019 Ardmoreite All-Star Preps Baseball Player of the Year award Tuesday at the Ardmore Convention Center. DYLAN JOHNSON /THE ARDMOREITE

Congratulation on all of your achievements!

You have made us all proud!

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THE SCENE

WINNING ISN’T EVERYTHING,

BUT WANTING TO WIN IS.

— Vince Lombardi

Guests filled the Ardmore Convention Center Tuesday waiting for the start of the 2019 Ardmoreite All-Star PrepsBanquet. DYLAN JOHNSON /THE ARDMOREITE Brian “The Boz” Bosworth speaks with Ardmore High School Basketball coach Debra Manley before the start of the 2019 Ardmoreite All-Star Preps Banquet. DYLAN JOHNSON /THE ARDMOREITE

Guests were lined up to the entrance of the Ardmore Convention Center waiting to check in Tuesday prior to the 2019 Ardmoreite All-Star Preps Banquet. DYLAN JOHNSON /THE ARDMOREITE

CONGRATULATIONS to all Southern Oklahoma student-athletes and coaches on successful 2018-19 seasons. Take the lessons of this year and use them to propel you to success both on and off the ﬁeld and remember: “Nothing worth having ever comes easy.”

Best wishes and good luck in the future.

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BOYS COACH

Tigers take it

Ardmore’s Newby makes history to earn Boys Coach of the Year award By Evan Grice evan.grice@ardmoreite.com

Fortune often favors the bold. The same could also be said for those who want to make history. This season, the Ardmore Tigers football team was not only a bold team with plenty of good fortune, but they also made plenty of history in the process. At the head of that success was none other than head coach and athletic director Josh Newby. Newby is the 2019 Best of the Arbuckles Preps Boys Coach of the Year after helping lead the Ardmore Tigers football team to a 13-1 record, and the program’s first appearance in a state title game since 1992. “One of my favorite memories from this season is when we were driving down Veterans Blvd., and you saw all the people of Ardmore out there supporting us,” Newby said. “That’s something I’ll remember for the rest of my life. We had some amazing kids this season who had high character and an immense amount of football knowledge. I’m so proud of this group.” “The team chemistry we had was incredible,” Newby added. “The coaches were fighting for the kids and the kids were fighting for their coaches. It was a total brotherhood in that locker room. I’m sad that we weren’t able to bring home the state title, but this season was one I’ll never forget.” Coming into the 2018-19 season, expectations were at an all-time high for the Tigers. The previous season, the Tigers had suffered a disappointing playoff exit at home at the hands of the Noble Bears in the state quarterfinals, as they finished with a 9-3 record. Through the first three games of the season, it became clear that this Tigers team had the potential to be something special. A season opening 33-7 victory over Ada at home was followed with two straight road blowouts against Durant (48-0) and McAlester (42-7), before the Tigers crushed Lawton MacArthur at home 40-14 in the district opener. Ardmore had to fight for a 21-6 victory over Altus to end September, but opened October with a bang as the Tigers handed El Reno a 31-17 defeat on the road. After breezing through Southeast in Oklahoma City (48-0) and Duncan (34-7), the time came for the ultimate showdown on Oct. 26 at Noble. Newby’s players, though, showed the character and grit which became trademarks of their season, as they clinched the district title with a commanding 42-20 victory over the Bears on the road. Ardmore completed the undefeated regular season with a 41-19 victory over Western Heights on Senior Night,

“One of my favorite memories from this season is when we were driving down Veterans Blvd, and you saw all the people of Ardmore out there supporting us. That’s something I’ll remember for the rest of my life. We had some amazing kids this season who had high character and an immense amount of football knowledge. I’m so proud of this group.” — Josh Newby, Ardmore High School football coach and athletic director

Ardmore High School football coach Josh Newby makes his way to the stage after being named 2019 Best of the Arbuckles Preps Boys Coach of the Year at the Ardmore Convention Center. DYLAN JOHNSON /THE ARDMOREITE

Brayden Bryant each shared Co-Offensive Lineman of the Year honors. Rafael Interiano was named as the Special Teams Player of the Year. Multiple other players also received All-District honors, while Bryant and Lemecki were also honored as All-State selections on the West Team by the Oklahoma Coaches Association. Ardmore also had a total of 10 football players sign National Letters of Intent on National Signing Day to play in college. Newby was named as the 2019 Football Coach of the Year at the Best of the Arbuckles banquet. “When coaches get awards like this, people have to realize there’s a lot of

other pieces behind the scenes that go into something like this,” Newby said. “I have an amazing staff of coaches who know football and teach it so well to the kids. Our kids also know the game of football so well and work so hard. I love the award and I’m honored for it, but this truly is a team effort from top to bottom.” “As a coach, when you are sitting on the porch one day after you’ve retired, you really think about how many minds you were able to impact,” Newby said. “That signing class was very special to me, and it’s one of those things I’ll always remember and be proud to reflect on one of these days when I’ve left the game of football.”

before breezing through the first two rounds of the playoffs with victories over Piedmont (42-13) and Coweta (48-13). Then, on Black Friday, Newby was able to see his team lay some past playoff demons to rest. Ardmore defeated Bishop Kelley 2113 in the state semifinals at Western Heights, exorcising a playoff memory from 2016, when the Tigers were defeated by Bishop McGuinness. “I knew this group was going to be special during their seventh grade year,” Newby said. “There was this group of kids eating up the weight program and working so hard. Then during their sophomore year, the lineman were just working and putting in a ton of effort. I knew that if we could keep this group together, and if they kept working at their craft that we would have something special with this team.” “To me, these kids are the ones who gave this program and this town a shot in the arm,” Newby added. “Us coaches Newby is presented the 2019 Best of the Arbuckles Preps Boys Coach of the Year were just on the sidelines making de- award from Robby Short from The Ardmoreite. DYLAN JOHNSON /THE ARDMOREITE cisions. This town has been incredible to me over 20 years and so has this school district. The support I’ve gotten has been nothing short of incredible.” The following week the Tigers took on the Carl Albert Titans at Wolves Stadium at Edmond Santa Fe. Despite three rain delays along with a stadium blackout, the Tigers managed to hold the high-powered Titans to just 17 points. Unfortunately, Ardmore could only score 10 as the Titans claimed the state title. But the accolades following the season came in droves for the Tigers and for coach Newby. Newby was named as the District 5A-1 Coach of the Year, with quarterback Tero Roberts earning Player of the Year honors. Sitani Lemecki was named as the Defensive Lineman of the Year, while Trenzel Johnson and

GIRLS BASKETBALL

CONGRATULATIONS to the athletes & their families!

BancFirst and your many fans salute you for an outstanding season and extend our appreciation for how you have represented your school and community.

Ardmore High School’s Sierra Gordon accepts the award for 2019 Ardmoreite All-Star Preps Girls Basketball Player Of The Year from Daryle Voss From Mercy-Ardmore. DYLAN JOHNSON /THE ARDMOREITE

BOYS CROSS COUNTY

Marietta High School’s Zane Nutter accepts the award for 2019 Ardmoreite AllStar Preps Boys Cross County Runner of the Year from Jeff Gininatti, from Todd’s Lake Country. DYLAN JOHNSON /THE ARDMOREITE

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GIRLS COACH

Fore scores

Plainview’s 3-peat leads Howard to Girls Coach of the Year By Evan Grice evan.grice@ardmoreite.com

Former United States president Theodore Roosevelt once said, “Speak softly and carry a big stick.” While Plainview girls golf coach Taylor Howard might not carry a big stick or even a golf club anymore, her words are still spoken softly, but her results have spoken even louder. Taylor Howard is the 2019 Best of the Arbuckles Preps Girls Coach of the Year, after she helped lead the Lady Indians to their third straight state championship, and fourth overall in program history. “I haven’t really sat back and thought about the success we’ve had this year to be honest,” Howard said. “I’ve been blessed with a very amazing group of girls, and the opportunities I’ve gotten to have at Plainview have been amazing. Our program has done some great things over the last four years, and it’s made me very excited. God has blessed me with some amazing things, and I’m so happy to be here coaching at Plainview.” “Our Athletic Director David Gilliam has been tremendous,” Howard added. “He always tells me he’s not going to step on my toes and he’s going to just let me do my job. It means so much to have a supportive AD behind you, because he believes in me so much. The parents of the program have been amazing as well, and it’s just so nice to have such a supportive family behind us.” This season, the Lady Indians entered as the defending Back-to-Back Class 4A state champions. Although they would not get the opportunity to defend that specific title, Plainview was able to set its sights on a new challenge as the Lady Indians were dropped to Class 3A with the likes of Purcell, Lone Grove, Dickson, Sulphur and many others. The change in classification did little to derail the regular season success for the Lady Indians, as they finished out-

side the top spot just once all season, with it coming in their first tournament of the year. Plainview kept a stranglehold on the Lake Country Conference title at Falconhead, and then rolled to the regional championship at Lake Murray. After taking the lead on day one of the state championship at Westwood Park Golf Course in Norman, the Lady Indians never looked back in claiming the 3A state championship. Reagan Chaney won the individual state title for the Lady Indians, with Adeline Norton and Hallie Schultz also finishing in the top-five, and Lindyn Ross finishing 10th overall, and Carrie Hutchings in 12th. Norton and Schultz each received All-State honors by the Oklahoma Coaches Association, and will both go on to play college golf this fall at Oklahoma City University and Redlands College, making it three total players under coach Howard who will officially be in college golf programs, joining state champion Katie Finley, who went to Texas A&M University in College Station. “When I took the job I was told I was going to have a good group of girls that would be able to compete for a state title,” Howard said. “After our first year then we got going. The caliber of players that are here at Plainview are just incredible, and the parents support them so much, as well as myself. We’ve been able to have as much success as we’ve had because of all the support.” Howard was also named as the 2019 Girls Golf Coach of the Year at the Best of the Arbuckles Banquet, making her a three-time winner of the award. She was also named as the National High School Coaches Association Girls Golf Coach of the Year for 2019, and is a two-time All-American golf player from Oklahoma City University, where she won a national championship in 2013 and finished as a member of the runner-up team in 2010. She was also a four-time state qualifier in high school for girls golf at

Robby Short, from The Ardmoreite, presents Taylor Howard with the The Ardmoreite’s 2019 Best of the Arbuckles Preps Girls Coach of the Year award Tuesday at the Ardmore Convention Center. DYLAN JOHNSON /THE ARDMOREITE

“These awards just reflect on the season we got to have,” Howard said. “I feel like the accolades I receive are because of the hard work the girls put in. I’m very grateful for them, but a lot of the credit does have to go to these outstanding athletes because they have put me in the position to win these awards because of their hard work and success.” — Taylor Howard, Plainview girls golf coach

Ada High School, where she earned All-state honors in golf and basketball her senior year. “These awards just reflect on the season we got to have,” Howard said. “I feel like the accolades I receive are because of the hard work the girls put

in. I’m very grateful for them, but a lot of the credit does have to go to these outstanding athletes because they have put me in the position to win these awards because of their hard work and success.”

Robby Short presents Howard with the The Ardmoreite’s 2019 Best of the Arbuckles Preps Girls Golf Coach of the Year award, her second award of the evening. DYLAN JOHNSON /THE ARDMOREITE

GIRLS GOLF

Set your goals high, and don’t stop till you get there. – Bo Jackson

Michelle Sinkler From Full Plate Living presents Plainview High School’s Reagan Chaney with the award for 2019 Ardmoreite All-Star Preps Girls Golfer of the Year. DYLAN JOHNSON /THE ARDMOREITE

BOYS TRACK

Congratulation

We are Very Proud of you!

Marietta High School’s Preston Whisenhunt accepts the award for the 2019 Ardmoreite All-Star Preps Boys Track & Field Runner of the Year from by Todd Myers from Ideal Home Care. DYLAN JOHNSON /THE ARDMOREITE

GIRLS TRACK

Bryan Dorsey from Cable One presents Plainview High School’s Sommers Bowker with the award for the 2019 Ardmoreite All-Star Preps Girls Track & Field Runner of the Year. DYLAN JOHNSON /THE ARDMOREITE

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SUNDAY, May 26, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com 11D

THE COACHES SOFTBALL

GIRLS BASKETBALL

The Ardmoreite’s Robby Short presents Ardmore High School’s Debra Manley with the The Ardmoreite’s Robby Short presents Lone Grove High School’s Jimmy Miller with award for the 2019 Ardmoreite All-Star Preps Girls Basketball Coach of the Year. DYLAN the award for the 2019 Ardmoreite All-Star Preps Softball Coach of the Year. DYLAN JOHNSON /THE ARDMOREITE

JOHNSON /THE ARDMOREITE

TRACK, CROSS COUNTRY

BASEBALL

The Ardmoreite’s Robby Short presents Plainview High School’s Ryan Luhmann with the award for the 2019 Ardmoreite AllStar Preps Baseball Coach of the Year. DYLAN JOHNSON /THE ARDMOREITE

The Ardmoreite’s Robby Short presents Marietta High School’s Matt Appleman with the awards for the 2019 Ardmoreite All-Star Preps Boys Track & Field Coach of the year, and Boys and Girls Cross Country Coach of the Year. DYLAN JOHNSON /THE ARDMOREITE

FOOTBALL

GIRLS TRACK

The Ardmoreite’s Robby Short presents Ardmore High School’s Josh Newby with the The Ardmoreite’s Robby Short presents Plainview High School’s Jerry Naylor with the award for the 2019 Ardmoreite All-Star Preps Football Coach of the Year. DYLAN JOHNSON award for the 2019 Ardmoreite All-Star Preps Girls Track & Field Coach of the Year. /THE ARDMOREITE

DYLAN JOHNSON /THE ARDMOREITE

BOYS GOLF

BOYS BASKETBALL The Ardmoreite’s Robby Short presents Plainview High School’s Deon Stevenson with the award for the 2019 Ardmoreite AllStar Boys Basketball Coach of the Year. DYLAN JOHNSON /THE ARDMOREITE

The Ardmoreite’s Robby Short presents Turner High School’s Jimmy Voight with the award for the 2019 Ardmoreite All-Star Preps Boys Golf Coach of the Year. DYLAN JOHNSON /THE ARDMOREITE

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Honoring Our Local Firefighters Everyday, firemen and women put their lives in danger to save homes, buildings, land and lives. In Carter County, we’re fortunate to have both Ardmore City Firefighters and a number of rural firehouses with both paid and volunteer staff. While we value and acknowledge the skill and experience of all our area firefighters, there may be some that have had the opportunity to step up in mentoring their fellow firemen/ women, go above and beyond in a rescue effort, or are consistently professional and courageous in doing their job.

We want to recognize a FIREFIGHTER OF THE YEAR, paid or volunteer, from within The Ardmoreite coverage area (40 mile radius of Ardmore) Please use the form below to nominate the firefighter of your choice with a short paragraph, 250 words or less, describing why you think they deserve this honor. You can also submit an email nomination providing the information requested on this page and putting Firefighter Nomination in the subject line. Deadline for nominations is Wednesday, Nov. 21. Once nominations close, an online voting site will open at Ardmoreite.com within a few days and community members can cast their ballot for their favorite.

NOMINATED FIREFIGHTER

SUBMITTED BY

Name ____________________________________________________

Name __________________________________

Title (if applicable) ______________________________________

Email __________________________________

Firehouse Number/Community

Phone __________________________________

_________________________

___________________________________________________________

Why is this individual deserving of this honor? (250 words or less) ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Mail this completed form to The Ardmoreite, Attn: Robby Short, P.O. Box 1328, Ardmore, OK 73402 or bring it to The Ardmoreite office, 117 W Broadway, during normal business hours, 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday - Friday, or email nominations with requested information to robby.short@ardmoreite.com. Each Firefighter of the Year will receive a plaque and a personal cash prize. They will be recognized at a luncheon at their firehouse, or designated location, with members of their family and their ‘house, as well as representation from our sponsors. The Firefighters of the Year, and the top finalists in each category, will also be recognized with their pictures and bios in The Ardmoreite.

Firemen “ Forever Saved “ never die, they just burn

in the hearts of the people whose lives they

– Susan Diane Murphree

See rules and regulations on page A10

Thursday, November 7, 2019 The Ardmoreite • www.ardmoreite.com B1

2019 Law Enforcement Officers of the Year — To Protect & Serve —

2 0 1 9 A R D M O R E I T E C A R T E R C O U N T Y L AW E N F O R C E M E N T O F F I C E R O F T H E Y E A R

For Handke, serving takes precedence By Robby Short robby.short@ardmoreite.com

ndersheriff Gus Handke’s career in law enforcement began in Nichols Hills. For Handke, protecting the affluent community in central Oklahoma came as a bit of a culture shock for a country boy that grew up in Minco, which likely helped ease his transition into southern Oklahoma living when he accepted the position of Chief of Police for the Healdton Police Department in 2009. “It’s a lot different up there than it is here. There is a difference in the people,” Handke said. “Where I was working and where I was living, it was very different. I’m a small town guy, I always have been. I feel more comfortable there in that environment. That’s what I’m used to.” As a college athlete, Handke would spend his time between class, practice and studying watching “Cops,” the television program, deciding early on that he had a better chance at a successful career in law enforcement than he did at being drafted into the National Football League.

“The combination of that led me to think that this might be the next step in this progression, that I’m going to get my degree in this and this is a career path for me after (his player career was over),” Handke said. “I think sports are a good preparatory tool in life in general, but I do think you see these kids who play sports have a tendency to be a little more high RPM than somebody else. So it seems like careers that are more fast paced are more appealing to them in general.” Part of Handke’s focus at the Carter County Sheriff’s Department has been to encourage, promote and expect continuing education from the deputies that serve under him as well as his own children. “A college education was very important to me. I got an associate’s degree, a bachelor’s degree and I went back and got a master’s and that was a huge thing for me,” Handke said. “If I am going to put an emphasis on education with my children, I have to set an example. My wife and I (Assistant District Attorney Melissa Handke), with what she does, education was at the forefront for her and for me, if I

From left: Carter County Sheriff Chris Bryant, Tony Gayanich from Patriot Ardmore, Brad Yelton from Top Tech, 2019 Ardmoreite Carter County Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Undersheriff Gus Handke, Richard Delano from OG&E, and Ardmoreite publisher Kim Benedict presented Handke with a plaque, catered meal and a check for $500 Monday during a presentation ceremony at the Carter County Sheriff’s Office. [ROBBY SHORT/THE ARDMOREITE]

am going to tell my kids that ‘education is an important thing,’ that ‘this is something that you need to do,’ I am going to have to lead by example.” Handke’s positions allow him the privilege to interact with a wide range of community members, while most interactions begin and end on positive terms, that’s not always the case, but it is the life officers sign up for

when they agree to wear the badge. “It’s stressful, it’s hard on you, hard on your body physically. Long hours,” Handke said. “A lot of people don’t know what goes into the decision making process. You are making decisions that could potentially seriously alter the course of someone’s life, so it’s important that you SEE HANDKE, PAGE B3

C A R T E R C O U N T Y L AW E N F O R C E M E N T O F F I C E R O F T H E Y E A R N O M I N E E S

heriff Chris Bryant is no me the passion for it, and it’s stranger to law enforcesomething I always wanted ment. to do.” Bryant, who is originally Longtime family friend from Houston, Texas, moved Maria Bowden nominated to Ardmore for family after Bryant for the honor, integSheriff Chris graduating from college just rity and leadership he brings Bryant south of southern Oklahoma to the position. in Gainesville. “We know him to hold the Bryant began his career in highest level of integrity law enforcement as a reserve deputy for not only his life’s work, but for in Love County in 1997 before joining those who are under his leadership,” the Carter County Sheriff’s Depart- Bowden said. “The quality of profesment in 2001, in the same role due to sionalism he possesses for the more influence from his former father-in- than 62 employees of the department law Harvey Burkhart. has woven his zest for law enforce“I owe it all to him, he got me start- ment into a mosaic of bravery and ed in it,” Bryant said. “He instilled in heroism when he puts on his badge.”

avid Jones’ career in law County Jail before resuming enforcement was neara patrol position with the CC ly cut short more than Sheriff’s Dept. eight years ago. Jones was also nominatWhile working as a deputy ed by his wife Dena’ for his for the Murray County Sherwork, relationships and Deputy David commitment to the comiff’s Department, Jones, while Jones responding to an emergency munity. call at a high rate of speed, was By overcoming his setinvolved in a roll-over crash backs and returning to serve due to a blown out tire, suffering the community, Jones continues to major injuries. exemplify what it means to be an Despite those injuries, Jones con- officer of the law. tinued to work his way back into law “He’s a good guy, very knowledgeenforcement which led Charles Wood able,” Carter County Sheriff Chris to nominate him for this award. Bryant said. “He is very diligent and The long road back for Jones in- very precise in everything he does cluded a stint as a jailer for the Carter and we are very happy to have him.”

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THE FINALISTS AND WINNERS OF THIS YEAR’S LAW ENFORCEMENT AWARDS.

You Are The True Heroes Of Our Community. 1540 ROCKFORD ROAD + ARDMORE, OK 73401 (580) 247-2021 + PATRIOTARDMORE.COM

Thursday, November 7, 2019 The Ardmoreite • www.ardmoreite.com B2

2019 Law Enforcement Officers of the Year — To Protect & Serve —

2 0 1 9 A R D M O R E I T E A P D L AW E N F O R C E M E N T O F F I C E R O F T H E Y E A R

APD’s rising star continues to excel on patrol By Robby Short robby.short@ardmoreite.com

here is more to being a law enforcement officer than just wearing a badge, carrying a gun and driving around in a patrol car looking to bust criminals and hand out tickets. It didn’t take Ardmore Police Department Patrol Officer Parker Green very long to learn that protecting and serving was more than just a motto, it’s a way of life. Not long into his three-year career with the Ardmore Police Department, on an otherwise normal day and an otherwise routine patrol, Green responded to a call that would leave a lasting impression on the young officer. While out on patrol, Green received a call from dispatch concerning an unaccompanied child observed laying in the street. “Right when I first started, there was a disabled kid in the southwest part of town, he didn’t have any legs and he only had one arm,” Green said. “When I arrived on scene, I went and picked him up. He was about 5 years

old, and he couldn’t speak at all. I figured he hadn’t made it very far (from his home). So me and him walked around from door to door asking the occupants if he was their child. We did that for about 40 to 45 minutes before we finally found the parent. Me and him created a bond while we were walking around, so that was pretty cool, too.” Green lamented that since the child and the family have since moved away from Ardmore, he’s no longer able to check in on the child like he was able to when the family was still living in town. A similar call is what promoted Ardmore resident Vera Hill to nominate Green as 2019 Ardmoreite APD Law Enforcement Officer of the Year. Hill had fallen in the street, breaking her wrist in the process. When Green arrived to the scene, he helped Hill back to her home and waited with her until paramedics arrived. Hill recounted the story to The Ardmoreite and its readers and added that “I was grateful to encounter such a nice young man.” While not every call allows law enforcement officers to come to the aid

Ardmoreite publisher Kim Benedict, Tony Gayanich from Patriot Ardmore, Brad Yelton from Top Tech, 2019 Ardmoreite APD Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Officer Parker Green, Ardmore Police Chief Ken Grace and Richard Delano, from OG&E, presented Green with a plaque, catered meal for his shift officers and family, and a check for $500 Monday during a presentation ceremony at Ardmore City Hall. [ROBBY SHORT/THE ARDMOREITE]

of those in need, it does provide an opportunity to improve on the service they provide to the community. “When we are not out taking calls, we try to go out and make traffic stops and pedestrian checks,” Green said. “Check on the businesses and make sure everything is good.” The increased exposure to the

community has quickly grown into Green’s favorite part of they job. “It’s something new everyday, and in most careers you don’t get to help people on a daily basis like you can in this career,” Green said. “A lot of the times it’s major, it’s a life changing SEE GREEN, PAGE B3

C A R T E R C O U N T Y L AW E N F O R C E M E N T O F F I C E R O F T H E Y E A R N O M I N E E S

aptain Keith Ingle nevAs the main point of contact er wanted to be the with the media and commuface of the Ardmore nity, Ingle’s face and name is Police Department, yet his often the one most associated hard work, dedication and with the good deeds APD ofwillingness to do any and evficers regularly accomplish. Captain Keith erything asked of him landed “I feel like these guys go Ingle him square in the limelight. out and do a lot of hard work Ingle wears many hats and I believe that the people within the Ardmore Pothat do the work should get lice Department. The Dickson High all the credit,” Ingle said. School graduate has worked patrol, Ingle’s attitude and selflessness narcotics, investigations, and trained toward the department and commuK-9 units throughout his 22 years nity is what prompted his nominaof service with the Ardmore Police tion and though this wasn’t his year, Department. But his current role as he remains content that his fellow the department’s public information officers are getting the recognition officer is the one he enjoys the least. they’ve earned.

or the last eight years, Yet for Shields, the best Corporal Travis Shields part about the job is being has spent his time on the able to give back as well as same streets he grew up on. being part of the team that While the pickup games and helped reduce the crime rate neighborhood activities are a in Ardmore by more than Corporal little more difficult wearing 63%. a uniform, he still relishes his Travis Shields “When I first got on here connection to the Ardmore we had a lot issues and we’ve community. been able to cut a lot of that As a 1998 graduate of Ardmore out,” Shields said. “It feels good to be High School, Shields is used to the a part of a team that is working hard high stress situations police officers at making our town a safer place to are put into. While in high school, live for the whole community.” Shields spent his time on the gridiron Shields’ commitment to the dechasing down ball carriers. Now as partment, community and his family an adult, he spends his time chasing was a determining factor when Judy down leads and sometimes criminals. Knox nominated him for this award.

At OG&E, safety is a core value. THANK YOU, first responders, for making safety your priority, too. Your bravery inspires and protects us.

Thursday, November 7, 2019 The Ardmoreite • www.ardmoreite.com B3

2019 Law Enforcement Officers of the Year — To Protect & Serve —

A P D L AW E N F O R C E M E N T O F F I C E R O F T H E Y E A R N O M I N E E S

or more than 25 years, tinguished career within the Captain Paul White Ardmore Police Department has been a familiar face nor his extra contributions to within the Ardmore Police the community that landed Department. him as a nominee for APD White’s role may have Law Enforcement officer of Captain Paul changed over the years, but the Year. White the integrity the Langston White’s nominee, 7-yearUniversity graduate has disold Fiona Engle nominated played while in service to White because “Capt. White the community has not, nor has his protects me! He loves me!” A stateinvolvement in the community. ment that also applies to the passion White’s stature and presence are and integrity he brings to the dehard to miss, he can usually be spot- partment and his willingness to be ted at community functions ensur- involved in the community as he coning safety for those attending or at tinues to act as a mentor, instructor special events sharing his years of and trainer to both the department knowledge to all that will listen. and the community at large. But it wasn’t White’s long, dis-

or Officer Ian Naylor, Naylor’s anonymous nomserving the Ardmore inator commended the young community has been a officer for commitment to long-standing family tradithe force and the community tion. Naylor’s grandfather, saying that Naylor “repJerry, is the legendary cross resents Ardmore Police DeOfficer Ian country coach at Plainview partment and the City in and Naylor High School, his father Grant out of the uniform. Always coaches and teaches at Ardwilling to help others and the more High School. community. Proud to have Naylor returned to Ardmore in him protecting Ardmore.” 2015 and it didn’t take him long to Naylor also recently participated in live up to the expectations set by the Dallas 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb family members. Naylor was named event — an event that honors the 70 Ardmore Police Officer of the Year officers, 343 firefighters and nine in 2016 by the Ardmore Police De- EMTs that lost their lives responding partment, and this marks Naylor’s to the 9/11 terrorist attack on New second nomination for Ardmoreite York City. Law Enforcement Officer of the Year.

t. Randy O’Hanlon has told there was possibly a spent the majority of his disabled child abandoned in adult life in the service the house,” O’Hanlon said, of others. As a Navy veteran recounting the incident that and 20-year member of the happened nearly 20 years. Ardmore Police Department, “We ended up searching Lt. Randy the Kentucky native relocated the house where we found O’Hanlon to southern Oklahoma to be a real small child that had closer to his family, but his been locked in her closet sense of duty led to a higher her whole life. We ended up calling, one in which he was able to saving her and giving her a new lease make a meaningful and lasting con- on life.” tribution to the community. O’Hanlon’s dedication to service “One night, we were called to a re- has translated into a deeper commitport of children playing in the road, ment to and greater acceptance from parents weren’t around. We were his now adopted community.

GREEN Continued from Page B2

event that you are there for, and making an impact like that on someone’s life is really meaningful to me.” The Plainview High School graduate first intended to pursue a career in business, but later followed in the steps of his stepfather, an Ardmore police officer “My stepfather worked here and retired from here, so I started looking into criminal justice,” Green said. “Once I started studying it I loved it, so I joined the officer program at East Central University and when I finished, I got on here.” Green’s stepfather,

HANDKE Continued from Pag B1

exercise some discretion and some discernment when you’re looking at the impact something can have on someone’s life. There is a huge responsibility in that.” Not all calls Handke and other law enforcement officers respond to have lasting impact on the lives of those involved. But occasionally they are rescuing children or other victims from unsafe or unsanitary conditions or have a chance encounter with someone suffering from drug addiction. For the latter, what can and can’t be done to

Rickey Lawrence, retired from the Ardmore Police Department in 2009 after 20 years of service to the department, reaching the rank of deputy chief. For Green, another perk of the job is the random interactions he encounters throughout any given work day. “You run into a ton of people everyday. Before starting this, I’d basically see the same people everyday,” Green said. “Just getting to meet everyone, that’s just cool to me. You get to meet all kinds of different people from all different kinds of backgrounds.” While not every citizen Green encounters is a new face, “I run into quite a few people I already know, sometimes it will be people I haven’t

seen since high school, some can catch up a little bit,” Green said. “Sometimes it’s helpful, but sometimes it can create an issue. For the most part, I will already know the background on them so I can relate with them, make it more personable so they open up more than they would with someone they don’t know.” This approach to community oriented policing has been attributed to the department’s recent success at drastically lowering the city’s crime rate. “That’s one of the main things I focus on,” Green said. “Trying to create that bond with everyone so you can get more information and know what’s going on.”

help can be the hardest snap judgment calls an officer has to make. “You want to get people help but you also have to toe the line that you don’t want to perpetuate behavior,” Handke said. “It’s hard. Some people, when you see them, they don’t see that as an opportunity. They aren’t ready to quit yet. But it’s still about protecting and serving those people. At some point, you hope that they are going to be ready, that they are going to want to quit. All you can do is show them support. Not look down on them. Everyone has problems. The goal is to just help people as much as we

can, but we also can’t have people out running around trying to traffic in drugs. So there is a confrontational aspect of it and there is a support aspect of it” Despite the challenges Handke and other officers experience on the job, seeing the positive influence their actions have on the lives of others makes the effort all the more worthwhile. “Seeing someone that has been off course receive a little bit of support and to pull themselves up by the bootstraps and to get themselves moving in the right direction and seeing them succeed, that is the most rewarding aspect.”

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