Roosevelt News

-- East Coast Edition –

 

-- Printed in Loving Memory of Wanda J. Jackson 1934 - 2011 –

 

News Center

Read old/current issues and send news or comments online at:

http://www.234enterprises.com/RooseveltNews/newscenter.htm

 

Editors:

E-mail: mmay@234enterprises.com

 Carolyn Niebruegge May                      Michael L. May

Vol. 1, Is. 31                                                                                      Feb. 17, 2012

 

 

From the Editor

 

I’m going to start off by saying a big “Thank You” for the several comments we received from our request for a “report card” last week. The comments (which you’ll see below) were most certainly kind.  If I had last week’s editorial to write over, I’d probably not use the phrase “time for a report card.”  Now, obviously to those who said, and let me paraphrase, “you’re doing good” I take it that you like most everything we do.  What I should have emphasized is what specific categories are your favorite, which ones would you like to see more of, and which ones would you just as soon we leave out.  I don’t have any question that most all would prefer more local news (hopefully, good news), and more stories about what each of you are doing or have done over the years.  As, you know, we can’t write that kind of “stuff.”  So, based on the feedback—until we hear something different, we’ll just “keep on a keepin’ on”—and trust that you’ll take the opportunity to “pitch in” along the way and help us out.  Enough of that.

 

I hate to say as “winter” (I use quotes because we really haven’t had winter) progresses I’m actually getting ready for a change in weather.  I don’t really believe that we are going to see the real winter this year.  We usually have all four seasons in Virginia and I enjoy all of them.  With all this said, it will probably dump on us in late March or early April.  Sometimes our weather does strange things like back in Oklahoma.

 

Well, football is over and Carolyn is well into College Basketball.  She’s a huge fan.  It recently occurred to me that “March Madness” is just around the corner and a time that will most likely drive me upstairs to the sitting room and the used 46 inch Samsung she gave me for Christmas.  I still have a couple of seasons of “Mad Men” on Netflix to keep me satisfied.  She’s watching UVA downstairs while I write this with Pandora Radio blaring in the background.  I’ve really learned to enjoy Pandora.  Between the “Roosevelt News – East Coast Edition” mailings, Pandora, and Netflix hope I don’t bump up against my limit on my monthly data allowance with Comcast.  I think I’ll most likely “squeak by.”

 

In closing, I’m embarrassed to say that I didn’t realize until I got on Facebook last Saturday that it was Wanda’s Birthday—her 2nd since her death.  Although her 2nd Birthday, it’s only been slightly over a year since her death.  It seems like it’s been a lot longer than that.  The first post I saw on Facebook last Saturday was a post from Phillip Liles on her “wall” saying, “MISS YA’ KID.”  It brought a tear to my eye—partly because it had slipped my mind and secondly because I, like so many others miss the sparkle in her eye, that little grin, and the “wonderment” (hmm, didn’t really know that was a word) of what was going to come out of her mouth next.  I assume she’s getting the “Roosevelt News – East Coast Edition” up there and approves—anyway haven’t gotten any complaints from her and none of the editions I’ve sent to her have been returned…

 

mlm

 

 

Content Contributors for the Week

 

Clyde and Mabel (Block) Blackwood, Classes of 1943 and 1946

Junior Curtis, Class of 1965

Ruby Fern Johnson, Former Teacher

Jack Whitson, Class of 1953

All those who sent messages to the Email “Bag”

 

Thank you all!

 

 

Remembering…

 

As I cooked dinner (supper) last night, I started thinking back and comparing today with times past.  I grew up working beside my Mom in the kitchen.  I really don’t remember my first times of cooking but I was young—that I do know.  Growing up on the farm, we had hearty meals—meat, potatoes, vegetables, and salads.  Dad and my uncle always fed a calf to butcher and we always had good beef in the freezer.  I remember the early days of having chickens—both for eggs and meat.  Then we started buying chickens from a Mr. Hartzog at Hobart and had them cleaned and dressed for the freezer.  So we had roast, steak, hamburger, and chicken readily available.  Mom was an excellent cook and used few recipes unless she was making a dessert dish.  Everything else was just a “dump, pour, and taste” exercise.  I just watched and helped her and before long I was able to make those dishes myself.  Now, we didn’t eat casseroles and I don’t believe there was such as Hamburger Helper, frozen dinners, etc.—at least if there were we didn’t have them.  We did use mainly canned vegetables as we didn’t have a vegetable garden—couldn’t as we did custom wheat harvest and weren’t home to tend the garden or put up the bounty from it.  Mom and I did get fresh strawberries in season from eastern Oklahoma and peaches from the local orchards to freeze.

 

My earliest memory of cooking full meals was the summer I was 12 years old.  Dad went on custom wheat harvest and the whole family went with him.  Mom cooked for our family and the harvest crew which was usually 3 high school age boys.  We lived in a 21 foot house trailer which was very small but very efficient.  The “ice” box was just that—it was only counter high and held a 50 lb. block of ice to cool it.  After you put a 50 lb. block of ice in it, you didn’t have much room for cold food.  Today, I wonder how we managed.  I do remember the green Dr. Pepper ice chest that also held a 50 lb. block of ice.  Seemed we used that to help with the cold food storage.  The cook stove was very small with 3 burners and an oven that we had to use smaller than normal pans in.  There was a small single sink but we didn’t hook up to water so all of the water we used for cooking, cleaning, etc., was carried to the trailer in a pail from a wind mill on the farm where we were staying.  There was nothing better than a cold drink of water from the dipper we used in that pail when it first came from the wind mill.

 

This was the summer of 1958 and it was a wet one.  We were parked on one farm in southwest Kansas for 4 weeks while harvesting the wheat there.  From there we moved to a farm north of Flagler, Colorado, and again we were there 4 weeks harvesting the crop.  The closest laundry was 40 miles away and had only 2 Maytag wringer washing machines.  With our family of 4 and 3 harvest hands, dirty clothes mounted up quickly and we had little room to keep them in the small trailer.  So Mom made the trek to the laundry every other day.  After Mom left for the laundry, my job was to wash up the breakfast dishes and prepare the noon meal.  Dad thought the crew needed a full, hot meal but he didn’t want to stop the combines so they took turns coming to the trailer to eat.  I cooked everything—roast, meat loaf, fried chicken, chicken fried steak, etc., and all the trimmings to go with it—potatoes, gravy, vegetables, etc.  Then I served the crew, one at a time, and cleaned up the kitchen before Mom ever returned from that long trip to the laundry.

 

Now, you might say why did she go through all of this?  Well, last night I had baked chicken and was making gravy to go with the mashed potatoes.  I make gravy without thinking—just make thickening with water and flour, add to the broth, and cook till the gravy is thick.  I then thought about our girls—our daughter and daughter-in-law who are both very good cooks in Mike and my eyes.  However, neither of them makes gravy.  In fact, they don’t cook roast, baked chicken, fried chicken, chicken fried steak—the basics of my days of growing up.  I know for certain that our daughter spent lots of time in the kitchen with me.  They cook simpler meals—many one dish casseroles.  They also make less side dishes than we had back then and in fact that Mike and I have today.  Mike and I haven’t totally given up on what we were brought up on.  Maybe the change in how our girls cook is the result of not growing up on the farm.  However, I think this is just part of today’s world and doubt that we would find those big meals served on many of today’s farms.  I just wonder what changes our granddaughters will see in their life time.  cnm

 

 

Thoughts from the Squirrel Lair

 

Dancing

 

Enjoy the music as you read this and take what it says to heart.

 

http://www.libertyhigh56.net/special%20pages/dancing.htm

 

 

 

Alumni Website

 

We have renewed the account that Wanda Jackson had set up at the photo sharing website, picturetrail.com for the Roosevelt Alumni:  http://www.picturetrail.com/rooseveltalumni.  She had posted many pictures from past reunions, class panels, and old schools buildings along with write ups about them.  We thought you might find these interesting if you haven’t visited this site in the past.

 

 

Interesting Tidbits

 

The Universe

 

These beautiful photos sent to us by Clyde and Mabel (Block) Blackwell are AWESOME!  Most were taken by the Hubble Telescope, but a few came from the International Space Station.  It’s a little long, but well worth the watch.  Enjoy…

 

Turn on the sound, run in full screen (left click the little box at the lower right of the You Tube screen)

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WL-v_aSOD2Y

 

 

********

 

Scams

 

Unfortunately in this day and time we all have to be aware of the many scams going around.  There are so many and the news often alerts us to the newest one in our area.  Too often senior citizens are the target.  Sadly in times of natural disasters, crooked contractors often “hit the road” running to offer the unnerved disaster victims a great deal—which may include quick turnaround but almost always is priced way too high.  Unfortunately some of these contractors never complete the work or if they do it is done with poor quality materials and shoddy workmanship.  Whether engaging a contractor for work in such difficult times or just needing some work done, we should always know who we are hiring—are they reputable, trust worthy, and licensed to do the work we need done.

 

We received information this week about another scam—the 809 Area Code Scam.  This long distance phone scam causes consumers to inadvertently incur high charges on their phone bills.  A message is left on the answering machine telling you to return the call as a family member is very sick, you have won a prize, someone has been arrested or died, etc.  Whatever the reason, it sounds urgent.  The message tells you to call a number with an 809, 284, 649, or 876 area code.  These all look like normal U.S. area codes but they are not.  They are connected to a phone number from outside the U.S.—usually in Canada or the Caribbean—and international rates apply (the rate can be as high as $25 per minute).  Unfortunately, consumers don’t find out that they have been charged higher international call rates until they receive their bill.  The phone companies recommend that you only return calls to familiar numbers.  If you are not sure about an area code, you can check with directory assistance.  Don’t be scammed by this.

 

Craig’s List is a very good way to sell something you no longer need or to buy something you do need.  However, be very careful.  An article appeared in the Lawton-Constitution this week about a Craig’s List car deal gone bad.  A 2007 Mustang was advertised for $2000.  A couple contacted the seller saying they wanted the car.  The seller brought it to them.  He had the title.  The buyer handed the seller an envelope with the $2000 cash and while looking for a pencil to sign the appropriate documents, the seller grabbed the cash, the title to the car, and the keys and ran to the car.  He sped away from the scene.  The couple did follow him and got a tag number but lost the car in the traffic of Lawton.  If the deal good sounds too good to be true, it probably isn’t a good deal and just might be a scam as this was.  Hopefully, the police will track the car and the couple will get their money back.

 

 

Birthdays and Anniversaries

 

We have compiled all of the birthday and anniversary information we could from Wanda’s files.  We are sure we are missing some.  Please send us the birthdays and anniversaries for your family and friends so that we can have as complete as list as possible.  We are going to start with what we have from Wanda’s files so if we miss you, please send us the information so we have it for the news next year.  In addition, should any of the birthdays we list be wrong, also please let us know.

 

Happy Birthday To:

 

February 18 – Haiden Gibbs
February 20 – Margie (Alonzo) Jackson, Class of 1982
February 20 – Rita Mayfield

February 20 – Marla Neuwirth
February 21 – Gayleen Stroud
February 22 – Darlene Barnes

February 22 – Don Lester

February 23 – DeRoy Rickerd, Class of 1953  

Happy Anniversary To:

 

February 17 – Mickey & Samantha Reeves
February 22 – Jim & Alice Law

 

 

Humor

 

Natural Born Citizen

 

This just might make your day a little brighter!!  You, who worry about Democrats versus Republicans—relax, here is our real problem.

 

In a Purdue University classroom, they were discussing the qualifications to be President of the United States.  It was pretty simple.  The candidate must be a natural born citizen of at least 35 years of age.  However, one girl in the class immediately started in on how unfair was the requirement to be a natural born citizen.

 

In short, her opinion was that this requirement prevented many capable individuals from becoming president.  The class was taking it in and letting her rant and not many jaws hit the floor when she wrapped up her argument by stating, “What makes a natural born citizen any more qualified to lead the country than one born by C-section?”

 

Yep, these are the same kinds of 18-year-olds that are now voting in our elections!

 

They breed and walk among us.  Lord—we need help more than we thought we did!

 

 

From the Email “Bag”

 

February 9, 2012

 

Mike,

 

I enjoy reading about the “olden days” when we lived in Roosevelt.  The purple and white house is still there, but it is in sad condition.  I didn’t graduate from Roosevelt, but I remember the old grade school and the Nash Bldg.   Many familiar names that I had forgotten, now “Roosevelt News-East Coast Edition” brings back old memories.  I will read an article, then I would ask my mother, do you remember this or who was this person.  Keep it up.  I enjoy the news. 

 

Gary Wax

 

********

 

February 9, 2012

 

Mike,

 

I have been meaning to e-mail you and let you know that my anniversary is Friday, February 10th, but because I have a bad memory about simple things sometimes I just forget stuff.  Anyway, you can add me to the list for next year.  I will be sure and not forget to let my wife (Dee) know.  I have just ordered flowers for tomorrow.  I also wanted you to know that I am putting together a little summary of my past since we left high school and will forward it to you when finished.  I've really enjoyed reading yours and Carolyn's comments about our days in Roosevelt and western Oklahoma.  I have also enjoyed most everyone's stories that you print. Just keep up the good work and you guys are really good at it.

 

Thanks for all the memories

 

Regards,

 

Junior Curtis, Class of 1965

 

********

 

February 9, 2012

 

Just wanted to say that you guys are doing an A+ job.  I really enjoy your newsletters.  Thanks again.

 

Gayla (Cook) Miller, Class of 1977

 

********

I appreciated this email so much referencing two of Roosevelt’s finest from years gone by—Gaylon Ford and Shirley Johnson.  Both were mail carriers.  They were also brothers-in-law—Shirley and Gaylon’s wife Ruby were brother and sister.  My Mother always said that Gaylon and his wife Ruby were like 2nd parents to her when she moved to Roosevelt to teach.  They were both pillars of the community.  Bro Jim (actually Dr. Jim) Harvey holds a special place in my heart as he was the one who baptized me.  Many of you my age or older may or may not remember Bro. Jim, but most certainly you’ll remember his wife, Val--the little lady with the GREAT BIG voice.  Boy could she “nail” How Great Thou Art.  My Dad so admired her.  He always said, “If I had a wife that could sing like her, I’d “wind her up” and keep her singing all the time.  mlm

 

February 9, 2012

 

Hey Mike and Carolyn,

 

Thanks for all your efforts to produce this interesting news piece.  I have many fond memories of Roosevelt.  My first pastorate out of seminary was there at the First Baptist Church, 1959-62.  I remember you as a very young lad.  Your mom and dad were so good to me and my family.

 

One of my favorite "preacher stories" comes from that experience.  Gaylon Ford and Shirley Johnson were two of the deacons at that time.  Both had a great sense of humor.  Knowing I was "green behind the ears" they found great pleasure in teasing me.

 

Every Sunday morning I knew exactly what to expect.  As people were leaving after the worship service, these two men of great wisdom stood at the door, waiting for me--one on my right, the other on my left.  They would shake my hand and always say the same thing.  First, Gaylon would look me in the eye and solemnly say, "Pastor, just remember there's no such thing as a bad, short sermon!"  Then Shirley would give me a warm hand shake and add his words of wisdom, "Preacher, just remember, the best ingredient for a good sermon is a little shortening!”

 

Then they would laugh, hug me, and offer to do whatever I or my family needed.  Great men--just not very creative!

 

Now, after more than 50 years of preaching, I still need their advice!!

 

Peace,

 

Jim Harvey

Former Pastor First Baptist Church

 

******* 

 

February 9, 2012

 

Hi,

 

Hope you know I think you two/both are doing an outstanding job.  Yes, others need to send in info - remember when - etc.   You and Carolyn are, shouldn't have to come up with all of the info.  Yes, we must participate also.  Do like the way you way you sign off sometimes - 'leaving the room'.

 

I send a 'lot of emails' and don't know if you can use them or not.  Some I know can't be used but think you and Carolyn would enjoy reading/seeing them.  Just continue to use what you can and want to use.   Will try to continue to send them.

 

Do enjoy reading the Roosevelt News - East Coast Edition.

 

Have a wonderful week and stay warm.  We are to get rain and or snow tonight.  Hope more of it is rain, although the snow is pretty except when you have two four legged kids that want out all the time.  Snow does cake - sticks real good to dogs’ feet.

 

Bye,

 

Austilene (Turner) Borum, Class of 1962

 

********

 

February 9, 2012

 

Midterm Grade

 

A+

 

Phil Liles, Class of 1973

 

 

Obituaries

 

Don Reser, 85, Snyder Resident

http://www.beckerfuneral.com/sitemaker/sites/becker0/obit.cgi?user=571532Reser

 

Don and his Uncle Ray Reser built the house that I grew up in east of Mt. Park.  Years later when my folks remodeled the kitchen, he built the custom cabinets for the newly remodeled kitchen.  Those cabinets would be the envy of every homemaker.  He was truly a master carpenter.  cnm

 

Useful Links:

 

Becker Funeral Home of Snyder, OK

http://www.beckerfuneral.com/?page=snyder

 

Ray and Martha’s Funeral Home of Hobart, Mt. View, and Carnegie, OK

http://rayandmarthas.com/

 

Roosevelt Cemetery Layout

http://www.234enterprises.com/Roosevelt%20Cemetery%20Layout.htm

 

Roosevelt Cemetery Markers (Picture Trail)

http://www.picturetrail.com/sfx/album/listing/user/rooseveltcemetery

 

Roosevelt Cemetery on Find A Grave

http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=cr&CRid=99397&CScn=roosevelt&CScntry=4&CSst=38

 

Hobart Rose Cemetery on Find A Grave

http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=cr&CRid=99399&CScn=Hobart+Rose&CScntry=4&CSst=38

 

Hobart Resurrection (Catholic) Cemetery on Find A Grave

http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=cr&CRid=2246374&CScn=Resurrection&CScntry=4&CSst=38

 

Mountain Park Cemetery on Find A Grave

http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=cr&CRid=99042&CScn=Mountain+Park&CScntry=4&CSst=38

 

Snyder Fairlawn Cemetery on Find A Grave

 

 

News Center -- Always Available Online

 

Remember--past, current, and all future editions of “Roosevelt News -- East Coast Edition” can be viewed online from any computer at: http://www.234enterprises.com/RooseveltNews/newscenter.htm.  We highly recommend that you bookmark this link.

 

In addition to viewing all copies of the paper, you can use this website to send comments or news items to us for publication.  Simply enter your name, your class year (if a Roosevelt graduate), your email address, and the comments you want to make or the news item you want to send and click on “Submit Information” button at the bottom left of the page.  The information that you submitted will show on your screen under a title of “Form Confirmation”—confirming that what you entered was sent to our email. 

 

 

Email Addresses

 

This newsletter is an email edition.  The only way for you to receive it and keep up-to-date with your friends from Roosevelt is for you to keep us informed of changes to your email address.  So please be sure to notify us at mmay@234enterprises.com should your email address change.  We also encourage you to send us email addresses for friends and family who might also like to receive the newsletter so that we can include them on our list.

 

 

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