News Notes

From ‘44 – one last time
My Daddy, Gary Smith, who started the Shopper in 1981, wrote this many years ago. In his words, “The majority of this rambling writing first appeared scattered over several issues of the Shopper News Note several years ago leading up to Lindsay’s Centennial days.
Since then, several (that’s two or more) have been nice enough to say they enjoyed it and wished they had saved the article.
Perhaps this will bring back some pleasant memories for you, too.”
FROM ‘44 by Gary Smith –
It was cloudy and cold with a raw wind blowing that day in November of 1944 when I stepped off the old Denco bus here in Lindsay, Oklahoma.
I was nine years old and instantly fell in love with the town. It was like moving back in time to “the old west.”
Between the road from Chickasha winding in and out around the Washita bottoms, the mud, and the bus stopping at many farm homes plus Alex and Bradley, the trip took nearly five hours.
The only paved street in Lindsay was Main Street—paved with the same bricks we know today. Highway 19 was paved from Main Street east to Pauls Valley. All the other streets were just plain mud.
My parents had purchased the newspaper here and I was to become Dad’s only printer (at nine years old). Remember? This was 1944 and all the eligible men (and many women) were either in military service or in defense plants.
Dad was ineligible due to having had Polio which left him with a bad leg and pronounced limp.
At the time, I thought being a printer was more fun than work and learning those skills later enabled me to draw a good salary while working my way through OU.
But so much for why I was here.
This rambling writing is just a few of the memories a nine-year-old kid lived, saw, or heard back in ’44 in Lindsay, Oklahoma.
“Old folks” will recall some of the people and events mentioned here … youngsters will probably find this boring. I’m certain that I will omit many important people and interesting events — but a nine-year-old kid on a bike (often on muddy streets) could only cover so much territory.
City Marshall Robert Hood patrolled the town on a big Palamino horse in the daytime and Bill Powers (on foot) took care of the town at night.
Elbert Pryor had a department store in what is now the Tabor Pharmacy building — John Cates also had both dry goods and groceries. Following a fire, Williamson’s was temporarily located on the east side of Main Street and stocked “millions” of things of interest to a nine-year-old … things like lariat ropes, bits, saddles, bullets (when they could get them­ — this was still the war years, you know 1944).
Williamson’s permanent location was at 322 S. Main, where B&B Fitness is now.
Back in ’44, Williamson’s was better known as “P.R.’s” or P. R. Williamson and Co. Emma Zoe Williamson and her little sister Mary operated the store. Mary later became Mrs. James Harrison, and was still active in the popular store. Williamson’s closed following its 100th year of operation.
And Lindsay had two movie theaters. The Blue Moon operated year-round and the Palace (at about 323 S. Main) was open during the “broomcorn season.”
They were owned and operated by Harry and Avice Waldron, and Mr. Waldron could play the Hammond organ like a pro.
In those days, Lindsay was rightfully known as “the Broomcorn Capital of the World.” Many readers today have no idea what broomcorn is or what it was used for. Broomcorn is the long straws that were the sweeping-end of brooms… remember? Back then we had no plastic brooms and darn few electric vacuum sweepers. So we did our sweeping with brooms made by attaching the broomcorn straw to wood handles.
“Lindsay Broomcorn Sweeps the World” was the slogan. The Lindsay area raised the finest quality and probably the most. This was the cash crop of the area. Growers could plant in the spring and harvest during the summer.
And it was the hottest and dirtiest work you could imagine — as someone who’s been there and done it, explains.
The entire crop was harvested by hand — the straws were cut by short knives, “Johnnie knives”, the crop was run through seed shredders, placed on drying racks and later baled ­— all by hand.
After baling, the growers would truck the huge bales into Lindsay to Broomcorn Street where the buyers would examine the crop and bargain with the growers over the prices.
All this was done during July and August — think about that!
Crews were run by many local farmers and most would hire anyone who would work. Grown-ups got full pay and small kids draw half pay (or whatever).
Many past and current Lindsayites can remember their days in the broomcorn fields long ago.
The migrant workers —called Broomcorn Johnnies or Sallies­—were paid daily and the harvest drew a wide assortment of people.
A great many of the workers would come to town in the evening after work and spend all their money earned during the day. Back in those days the only lighted sign on Main Street said “BEER”. it was in red neon letters and I think it was in the front window of my building, 318 S. Main, where we published the Shopper News Note for 30 years.
Bill Powers, the night watchman, would have the local jail full of drunks by midnight. He’d release his bleary-eyed prisoners the next morning to catch the wagons and trucks going back out to the broomcorn fields for another hot day’s work.
Yes … there were plenty of wagons and teams in use back then ­— I said it was like moving back in time. Remember, World War II was still going on and folks were lucky-lucky who had serviceable cars and trucks ­— and could get the gasoline and tires to operate them.
The land Goodner’s Discount Grocery is now located on (now Super C’s location) was back then a wagon yard — where wagons and teams were left when the owners came to town. It was truly the ol’ west to a nine-year-old boy.
But so much for the town … the people were what made it interesting — and exciting. Frank Miller operated the Ford garage down on the south end of Main Street. It was more of a garage than a dealership since the new Fords had not been produced for the public since 1942. The military got all that were made.
I don’t recall who operated the Chevrolet dealership, but there was one.
(The late) Vic Cacy reminded me that Marion Mayfield was the Chevy dealer back then.
W.C. Sawyer had an auto parts store where KBLP now broadcasts. Mr. Sawyer told me that he had been the town constable at one time and continually tried to catch the local bootlegger delivering his wares.
He explained that he could hear the bottles “clanking together” while suspended from a belt concealed under the dress of the bootlegger’s wife. “But I was not about to frisk that lady,” he explained.
Mr. Sawyer and Jno. Lynch were two of the finest gentlement I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. Yes… Mr. Lynch spelled his first name Jno. (pronounced John). He served many years as mayor of the town.
The Central Drug was operated by Dee and Ollie Riley. It was where Lorri Ann’s is now located. My folks had a charge account there and I thought it was really keen to climb up on a counter stool and drink a four hundred (chocolate drink) and just say “charge it.”
Dr. W.E. Pool and Dr. Gross and Dr. Cantrell were the doctors I remember who took care of the town’s medical needs back in ’44.
Elmer Tschauner operated his Tschauner’s Drug Store on the corner a block south. Mr. Tschauners’s son, Jerrry, and I spent our summer nights in an Army surplus pup tent down by the Shady Grove Park, now Glenn Curlee Park. We slept on the ground with only an old blanket under and a sheet over us. Guess we were tougher back then.
Dr. Brungardt was the dentist with offices above the old American Exchange Bank building (now Stubblefield Law office).
Dr. Pool was later joined by his brother and sister, Doctors E.B. and Mildred and also by Dr. Ross.
The Pools built and operated a modern, efficient hospital where the Methodists now park their cars.
Bill Clements Real Estate office (now Clements Insurance, owned and operated by Keith Miller) occupies the lot where the old Webster Hotel sat. It was the only hotel in Lindsay that had a second-story veranda (really nice back in those days without air conditioning). And Lindsay had three hotels — one was four or five stories high with a ballroom — one even had a coffee shop.
Bill Clements, by the way, was the third “Mr. Clements” to handle our insurance needs here in Lindsay.
By the way, the large hotel was where the American Exchange Bank is now located. On the first floor, on the corner, the Bullocks had a grocery store.
One of the occasional guests of the Webster Hotel drove a Hupmobile. I’ve never seen or heard of one since­—but I bet it would be worth a fortune now.
Our banks in ’44 were the First National and the American Exchange. I believe C.E. Costello was the president of the First and his son John was also in the back. The First National Bank was in the two story building at 326 S. Main now home to Tony Gosnell Operating.
The American Exchange in ’44 was also in one of our two story buildings. It is now the office of Stubblefield Law Firm at 226 S Main. J Carl Finch was the president.
Mr. Finch “financed” a bike for me when I was only 11 or 12 years old. I’ve often wondered since whether the bank made the loan or Mr. Finch simply loaned a kid the money from his own pocket. Anyway it was a big deal to me and really appreciated — and I made certain it was repaid.
The bike was an older one with wor out tires—but I patiently kept it going with the help of about a dozen tire patch kits.
And boy o’ boy, a bicycle was really important transportation back then.
Doil King later put in King’s Firestone (I think) and Mr. King let me pay out a brand new bike. Boy! Was it nice!
I can remember 12 multiple-story buildings in Lindsay back in ’44. Most remain today except the hotels and the building where Bray Laundry now stands at 325 S. Main.
And Main Street was paved with the red brick (that we need to preserve forever). Few small cities can boast a Main Street as neat n’ nice as ours.
Mary Barefoot ran the Five and Dime store in what is now the south 25 feet of the Tabor Home Medical Service building. Ms. Barefoot had the most lovely smile I can remember.
A Mrs. Moore and her daughter Delia operated a room and board home on the corner of SW Second and Chickasaw Streets. My father, Hershel Smith, stayed there for a few weeks until he found a house for the family and moved us from Chickasha.
Dr. Mary Sue Kendrick and her family remodeled and updated the historic old rooming house. Dr. Kendrick is the grandaughter of Mrs. Moore.
Delia’s sister, Rhoda, had a ladies ready-to-wear store on Main Street.
Charlie Miller operated the Stephenson-Browne Lumber Co. where the new fire station now stands. Long-Bell Lumber Co. was across the street.
Ed Hardy was our furniture dealer. Jimmy Henderson later bought the building and made it his TV and appliance dealership.
The large building was recently purchased by a group headed by James and Mark Gulliam. The Gilliams operate a printing plant which now does the press work for many area publications.
No history (or rambling writing such as this) would be complete without including the Archie Jones family who delivered our milk back in ’44. Archie and Ada Jones farmed just southwest of Lindsay and together with their children Archie, Cecil, and JoAnn (the late Mrs. Earl Wilson) supplied the Lindsay area with fresh milk daily ­— and still got the kids to school on time.
Cecil still farmed the home place west of town.
I really enjoyed Mr. Jones and occasionally worked for him delivering milk in later years when the family built and operated a neat little dairy on south Main Street.
Mr. Jones told me he was raised on a cotton farm near Waco, Texas and “until I was 18, I didn’t know there was anything in this world except hoe handles and cotton sacks.”
O.B. Moody was the attorney with offices over the Central Drug. His son, Dan is still today one of my best friends. (Both Dan and Gary pre-deceased this publication).
Cicero I. Murray—I didn’t really know this gentleman—but I did read about him in my Oklahoma History book. Mr. Murray was an attorney with offices over the “old” First National Bank building.
Now, Mr. Murrary was a cousin to the colorful “Alfalfa Bill” Murray, the ninth governor of Oklahoma. Seems Oklahoma and Texas has some kinda dispute over a Red River bridge — and Governor Bill appointed “Cousin Cicero” as commander of the Oklahoma National Guard to protect Oklahoma’s interest. I guess he handled the deal okay ’cause he was in my history book.
Cicero Murray was also the founder of Murray Hill, the housing development on the hill top in the north part of town.
Seth and Sicola Bridwell had a grocery store on the southeast corner of Lindsay. I don’t remember the couple very well other than they had some mighty nice kids who were classmates and friends of mine. They were Bob, Bill, and Setha. Bob still makes his home here.
“Bounce” Ridings was one of our plumbers. Irvin McGee and Elwood Reeves were also well-known plumbers. We lost Mr. Ridings at an early age. The Ridings children were James, who made his home in Lindsay, and a cute little redhead that we kids affectionately dubbed “Little Red Ridings.”
Truman was Mr. McGee’s son — one of the more outstanding trumpet players to graduate from LHS.
Milam Luton was our Postmaster and another of the several in Lindsay who volunteered to pitch in when something needed doing.
George Merritt, Rollie Gregg, and W.P. Thomas delivered rural route mail, and back then — some of our rural roads were nothing more than cow paths. Remember? Equipment for civilian use was almost nonexistent during the war. There was no such thing as a new car, truck or tractor from early ’42 to about ’46 (after the war was won).
Jim Gabbard operated a feed, seed, and furniture store, on the south and east end of the the first block of S. Main. Mr. Gabbard was a delightful “character” and I used to stop in just to hear some of his tall tales.
He once explained that farmers often complained because he would not hire any helpers and the farmers would have to load their own purchases of feed and seed.
He reasoned, “I don’t carry no insurance and a hired man might get hurt getting his hand caught in the cash register.”
Oh Boy!!! I was in the fourth grade when we moved here — and Betty Strickler (the late Mrs. James Parr) volunteered to show my sister and me the way to school. And back then most kids walked! But on with the story …
Betty led me to the room of Miss Ida Tinch and shoved me in the door ­— and ran!!! Miss Tinch scared the daylights out of me — I wanted to run too, but my knees were knocking too badly to operate.
Now I don’t know what this had to do with fourth grade education — but Miss Tinch had all her students making dolls. Yes! Sewing dolls. Girls and boys, too!!!
I was told to bring needle, thread, cloth, and cotton and she’d get me started. Now you can imagine just how excited I was over that project. I managed to stammer something about all that stuff was still packed away — I guess I flunked fourth grade doll making because I just couldn’t handle doll making.
Maybe that is why she promoted me on to fifth grade — just to get rid of me.
I’ve mentioned Robert Hood, our city marshal back in ’44. Well Lindsay was right up with the times in ’44—communication wise.
We had a big ‘ol bare lightbulb hanging out over Main Street. Yessiree! If you needed Robert Hood, you called the telephone operator (if you had a phone — not everyone did).
Mrs. Grace Estes, the telephone operator, would flip a switch and turn on the bare light bulb. Then when Robert Hood noticed the bulb “on,” he’d call Mrs. Estes and she’d then relay your message.
Neat, huh?
When ol’ Eric Dodson was Police Chief, he would have pulled his hair out with a system like that today. Now Mrs. Estes deserves another story. Some of you will recall that back in ’44, we’d pick up the phone, hold it to our ear until a lady would say, “Number please.”
At this point, if you were in the big cities, you’d give them the necessary number. But down in Lindsay, we were “way ahead of all that complicated number stuff.” If we wanted to talk to P.R. Williamson’s & Co. — we’d just tell the operator (usually Mrs. Estes) “Williamson’s please.” That simple.
I remember calling for my Dad at the Lindsay News office one time and Mrs. Estes replied, “Gary, there’s no one in the Lindsay News office … I’ll ring the coffee shop.”
Now you just can’t beat that for service — even with today’s cell phones.
The phone company in ’44 was over the old Central Drug store, and Mrs. Estes’ switchboard was near the front windows where she could keep an eye on Main Street.
Mr. Chris Sterr — another favorite of mine — now long gone. Mr. Sterr operated a meat market and told me that he’d clear off the big cutting blocks, cover them with clean butcher paper and then lay down for a short nap after lunch each day.
Mr. Sterr explained that when business got “really slow” they’d appoint a “retail promotions committee.” The function of the committee was to head out to the woods, trap a badger and bring it to Main Street where a cage was set up. Word would get around and folks would come from all around bringing their dogs to go a round or two with the badger. And business would pick up!
Mr. Sterr was the father of Paul Sterr, Anna Rose Kempf and Nancy Dew — all remained residents of Lindsay until their passing.
Porter Ivy was the barber I remember. His shop was on Main Street. I believe it was in the front of what is now S&H Tank Truck offices.
His daughter, Sue Furnier, lived in the lovely family home on Fifth Street.
Loren Brown was the funeral director with the home located in a large frame building — where Wilbourn Family Funeral Home now stands. Mr. Brown’s grandson, Bobby Boydston, operated the funeral home in Lindsay for years.
Claude and Bernice Romans operated our bakery and kept Lindsay and surrounding towns supplied with bread and all kind of goodies.
Mrs. Romans once told me she often started the day (back then) at midnight. I think I remember that a big batch of donuts would be the last baking of the afternoon … and Krispy Kremes couldn’t hold a candle to them!!!
Henry and Ruby Adams operated a restaurant somewhere on the east side of Main Street. I can’t remember just where. Mr. Adams was also a plumber and electrician.
Miss Maude Payne was another of my many “favorites.” Miss Maud cooked the evening meal for the Rotary Club here. The group met in the annex of the Methodist Church — right on my way from school to Main Street.
Now Miss Maud made some of the most delicious bread ever served in Oklahoma — and I’d always manage to “just drop in” about the time the loaves were coming out of the oven.
Oh Boy!!!
Some years later, Miss Maud built and operated Maud’s Restaurant on the corner where the Ranch House was, (where Family Dollar is now located). You’re right! Her delicious bread made her place famous thoughout Oklahoma!
Who have I omitted? I know there are many others — but a nine-year-old kid could just cover so much town back in ’44. Remember, we didn’t even have paved streets. Ever tried to ride a bike down a muddy road?
J.J. Harrison farmed northeast of Lindsay and with his son James also operated a gypsum plant at Cement. Mrs. Harrison (Rose) was also active in the business end of the operation. Later another son, Bill, took over the operations.
Bill was active in several businesses throughout the southwest until his passing.
Bill’s son, Dr. David Harrison, and several of David’s children, make their home here in the Lindsay area.
Ed Foley was the insurance man for many families in the Lindsay area — and Mrs. Foley headed up the newly-established hot lunch program at Lindsay Schools. And I guarantee no kid in Oklahoma ate better than we did. Mrs. Foley was assisted by Breda Hutto and Golda Martin and some other lovely ladies — but with my apologies, I can’t remember names.
T. Ralph Peck and Scott Moore were some of the names associated in the broomcorn business here in ’44. Mr. Lucien Kempf came shortly after that — he was an officer in the U.S. Navy during World War II.
John Baker — the father of Johnny Murray and Douglas (a Navy ace lost during the war) was a good friend of my Dad — and we used to have fishing privileges at his lake. Back then, lakes and ponds were few and “fur” between. Most of the ones you know today were build after the “war” was over.
Mr. Barnes and Mr. Elkins handled the grocery and gasoline business at Erin Springs. The Shoemakes had similar businesses in Lindsay.
No rambling writing of Lindsay’s “good ol’ days of the ’40s” would be complete without including the sinister (and surely haunted) Egan House. Now no Hollywood movie ever had a more haunted, haunted-house than we had right here in Lindsay, America. It was located on the corner where our Calvary Baptist Church now stands.
The big ol’ house had a huge porch that was rotten, a big round turret on the third floor and was surrounded by a grove of the biggest, ugliest, and thorniest locust trees in Oklahoma.
No kid ever “just walked” along the sidewalk at night in front of the old house — you ran!!! And yes, no kid back then ever really reached manhood without (reluctantly) taking a midnight tour of the place — usually a dare from the older boys.
We had a big, tall metal water tower on the north end of Main Street — just on the north side of the Depot building.
He was still flying combat missions in the south Pacific in 1944, but the next year the war was over and J.E. (Jay) Cruse celebrated by flying a Corsair fighter plane right down Lindsay’s Main Street (about head high, I swear). He pulled up right over the old water tower — and then did a beautiful roll and continued north — upside down.
A few others celebrated the end of World War II in similar ways, but Jay’s was the bestest of all.
Later that day, I was outside our house in the White Addition, (what is now S. 6th Street by Shady Grove Park), and Jay flew over, and his flight plan fell out of the plane and floated down into our front yard. I watched it, picked it up, and took in the house. A real-life flight plan! A little while later, we heard a knock on the door. Jay was there to retrieve his flight plan!
Jay later operated Cruse Department Store in the building where we published the Shopper News Note for years – what is now S&H Tank Trucks offices.
Between the thousands of bales of broomcorn shipped and the oil boom of the ‘40s — the Lindsay-Pauls Valley spur of the railroad was supposed to be the most profitable track the Santa Fe owned. Yeah, it’s gone now, along with the water tower.
And following the end of WWII in ’45, we had a whole new cast of characters as the men and women “came home” to Lindsay from their jobs in the defense industries and serving in the armed forces.
However, I’m just trying to stick with the fun of ’44 with this rambling writing. Maybe someone else will pick up from here and remember some of us.
How many of you remember the ol’ two story, red brick school building we had back in the ‘40s? No air conditioning — and not much heat out of those old steam radiators — unless you sat on ’em.
We kids always welcomed a good snow since the old school building would start moaning and creaking — and they’d dismiss school for a few days ’til the snow melted off the roof.
Some of us would haul our homemade sleds to the top of what is now Murray Hill — and swear we were having fun while out teeth chattered. We also tried sliding on the frozen pond up there — ’til someone fell through the ice and we decided to head for home.
Judge Hillyer meted out his brand of justice in our local court. I didn’t know the colorful judge — but he apparently initiated many a humorous incident. But I better not remember any — or else.
The judge was the grandfather of Paula Barker, who was our Chamber of Commerce manager for many years.
No rambling writing of Lindsay would be complete without including the Goodners of the grocery store fame. Back in ’44 Roy D. Goodner was causing waves throughout the business community with this lower-priced groceries. (For instance, he sold Purex for 19¢ a quart — when the other guys “just had to have a quarter for it”).
They said he couldn’t stay in business giving things away like that.
Shortly after ’44, Roy D. sold his store here to Ross and Venus Goodner and bought a store in Duncan. Ross and Venus operated the store here for many years along with an other brother, T.J.
All the Goodner brothers had friendly – but loud – booming voices. And for a while, Ross operated the grocery store — while his brother Spud had a small cafe across the street — and a block north. Every morning Ross and Spud would stand on the sidewalk in front of their respective businesses and carry on a conversation. And of course, everyone on Main Street could hear every word.
Jack Simms ran the service station down on the highway with his wife, Faye, putting in full days also.
“Jimmy” Charles and his father had an insurance agency here in ’44. Later Jimmy became president of the First National Bank here.
C.L. Dodd was the jeweler and watch maker, I remember.
I’ve mentioned my father earlier in this rambling, but I think my parents do deserve more space. Herschel and Grace Smith bought the Lindsay News in the fall of ’44—and operated it until 1975.
Under their guidance the Lindsay News was the first full-size newspaper in Oklahoma to “go offset,” (the current method of printing publications). The paper was four times in four consecutive years selected as the most outstanding newspaper in its size category in Oklahoma. I don’t believe any other newspaper in the state has ever achieved that distinction.
I don’t recall ever meeting Mrs. Lewis (Anita) Lindsay but I do remember Tess Lindsay visiting with my Dad, Hershel Smith, as they worked on the composition and proofing of Mrs. Lindsay’s original manuscript of “From Pioneers to Progress.”
“From Pioneers to Progress” is a very interesting, well-written history of the Murray and Lindsay families, from England to their settling and influences of the Lindsay-Erin Springs area.
A reprint of the small booklet is available from the Lindsay Community Historical Society.
I know this is long-winded (and boring to the younger readers) but every time I think my recollection of Lindsayites is complete — something else jogs my memory — and I just can’t quit.
Lindsay is (and was) just the home of too many colorful people!
Another really-really favorite was Mrs. W.A. “Big Mamma” Roberts. She was slender, older, and walked on crutches — when she wasn’t using one to clobber one of us kids. She ruled the roost — and her big front yard was the favorite play-place for all the neighborhood brats kids.
Gabe Morris ran Morris’ Shoe Shop and Western Store on Main Street. Gabe was an artist with leather — saddles, hosters, boots, harness — he could make anything from leather and no one could do it better.
Anna Ewert lived in a splendid old home at about the corner of southwest second and Kiowa. The home burned (I think) about the mid-’40s — and Mrs. Ewert’s diamond rings were lost in the fire.
Mrs. Ewert and several of her friends then proceeded to sift through the ashes until the valuable diamonds were recovered. (A night watchman was employed to guard the premises at nights until the ladies found the jewels).
It was a wonder that more structures were not lost to fire back in those days as Lindsay had only one, rather old, fire truck, a volunteer group of fire fighters and usually low water pressure.
Usually when a fire was reported, the first volunteer to reach the fire station would start the truck then circle Main Street several times with the siren blaring­ until enough volunteers climbed aboard ­— then they would head to the fire!!!
Tom Sorrells operated his black smith shop on the lot where (I think) Wanda’s Cafe was (now home to PCP Collections). It was another interesting place for a nine-year-old to visit. Seems like there was a poultry house nearby where folks could sell their chickens.
To the many who were an important part of Lindsay I knew back in the mid-40s—but were not mentioned here—I apologize. As I have pointed out, this is only the ramblings as I recalled as a nine-year-old — and I just didn’t have the opportunity to know all the colorful people in town.
John Fallon was often mentioned when ranchers were discussed — but I don’t remember ever meeting the gentleman. Mr. Fallon’s son, John, is one of my good friends today. I believe the Fallon ranch was where our water tower is now located up on the hill north of town. (John died in the early 2000s).
Saturdays were a gob different back then from what we know now. Back then, everyone came to town on Saturdays, did their shopping, maybe took in a picture show and spent the rest of the day roaming Main Street and visiting with friends.
Boxes and bags of groceries were lined up in front of the stores and picked up later when the owners were ready to head for home — often midnight when the “preview” was over.
Betty (Mrs. Joe) Gay told me that she invited Joe to visit (for the first time) on a Saturday afternoon. Joe wanted to know how he would find her … and she said to find a parking place … and she’d find him ’cause everyone was on Main Street. Joe was a pilot during “the war” and was then teaching school somewhere in western Oklahoma.
Bet you didn’t know that Lindsay had a First Street. Well, it did!
But not for long.
All the streets in town originally had names — not numbers. I remembered several but Linda Newby (then at the City office) had to help me with some.
So as far as we know, Southeast Fourth just never had a name. However, Southeast Third was Grant Street, Murray was the name of Southeast Second. Main Street was Main Street except for a short time in maybe the early fifties when we got the numbered streets. But for a short time, Main Street was First Street … most folks just didn’t like it … sounded undignified or something. So it was changed back to Main.
So let’s see how we do on the southwest side of town.
Second was Wagner, Third was Garvin, Fourth was Thompson, Fifth was Bois ‘dArc, Tecumseh was Sixth and Williams was Seventh.
Now this will give you a laugh … Eighth Street (the one the school is located on) was Joy, yessirree!!! Then we had Knox for Ninth Street.
You know … surely someone is old enough to remember when the sun came up one morning and a two seat buggy was noted on the roof of the old two story school building.
Or … the leading man in the school play forgetting to zip up his fly after a quick wardrobe change — no harm done, though.
Or … the teacher whose car was set on a jack—so the car wouldn’t move — and the teacher calling the wrong dad and demanding that he come solve the problem. Oh well?
The there were the boys who started one night to paint the school building — but got caught — and spent the remainder of the night erasing their work with paint remover.
And how many remember the four Leopards who bought an old hearse to travel to that little school up in Stillwater?

Y’all take the rest of the day off . . .
As of today – for the first time in more than 100 years – a member of Hershel and Grace Smith’s family will not be in the news business, this “Fourth Estate,” watchdog over the government and other powerful institutions.
We came home from southeast Texas, and published the first edition of the Shopper News Note on Wed., Oct. 21, 1981. My Daddy, Gary Smith was publisher, and my Mom, Harriet Smith, handled typesetting and bookkeeping. Daddy’s sister, my Aunt Sue (Ursula Pohl), handled the ad designing. I helped with the mailing, often by playing Zorro and marking a big Z through the postal indicia on Ben Franklin’s inserts. The Shopper was, and still is, a family operation.
We were the first full-size Shopper in Oklahoma. Many publishers of other Shoppers in our fine state have modeled their publications after ours, and we take that as quite a compliment.
We had the largest circulation of any weekly mailed publication in Oklahoma – by far.
As has become customary, we’d like to thank those folks who came on board that first publication * Standridge Hardware and John Deere , Inc. * Geffre’s * Doil King’s Swap Shop Home Furnishings * Jean’s Shu Shack * Ursula Pohl’s Fuller Brush * Goodner’s Discount Foods * Henderson TV and Appliance * Freeman Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac * Vic Cacy Motor Co. * Lindsay Builder’s Supply * Ernie Philpott Realty, Inc. and * Williamson’s.
We started in a very nice, small office on Hwy. 76 South (in what is now the south portion of Casa 13). We added office supply sales and moved to the 300 block of W. Cherokee for a few years, landed at 318 S. Main for 30 years, had a brief stint at 317 S. Main, and now we’re back in the 300 block of W. Cherokee – 311 W. Cherokee, Ste. C – in good ol’ Lindsay America.
We’ve had a lot of fun with our Shopper through the years, especially with som April Fool spoofs – we had Wes Mantooth, a popular farmer, start a styrofoam sledge hammer business (in his 70s). We declared Bro. Bill Love the Mayor of Erin Springs and had Erin Springs annexing Lindsay at the same time. AND we re-routed the Washita River through Hibarger Creek to accommodate bridge and road construction. That one sparked an equally funny E-mail from then-Mayor Brandon Fentem AND a call from ODOT – Oklahoma Department of Transportation.
Our popular Shopper Toppers were just that – POPULAR. We sold everything but the kitchen sink. And truth be told, we probably sold a few of those, too.
We’ve been able to promote our favorite town on Earth. And we’ve been able to spread a little of the Good Book with free announcements from area churches.
I want to extend a sincere THANKS to our loyal customers and readers. You were the success of the Shopper News Note, and made coming to “work” fun for us every day.
A special THANKS goes to some very special people: Paula Sue Barker, who helped gather “Shopper Toppers” from all over town when we started the Shopper. Second, to Jean Price, who, with the combination of her two businesses, Jean’s Shu Shack and Flowers by Jim n’ Jean, ran an ad in EVERY SINGLE publication of the Shopper until she retired in 2019. I’m sure I’ve left out some people, and for that I sincerely apologize.
It has been an honor and a privilege to be welcomed into your homes every Wednesday these last 43-plus years.
Fear not. We’re still in the printing business with Smith Office Supply, printing job forms, signs, etc.
As far as that headline? My Daddy used to (infamously) say to everyone else’s employees, “Y’all take the rest of the day off.” The good ol’ Shopper News Note is going to do just that.
Many thanks –
Holly
Thank you…

Special Election set for Mid-America Technology
Mid-America Technology Center (MATC) is asking voters in its district to approve a three mill increase to its building fund in an upcoming Tues., Aug. 12 Special Election, according to a news release.
The proposed increase would raise MATC’s millage rate from the current one mill to four mills — just one shy of the five-mill maximum allowed by law.
What does this mean for taxpayers? For property owners, the increase would result in a modest tax adjustment based on the assessed value of their property. For example: A $200,000 property would see an increase of approximately $66 per year; a $500,000 property would increase by $165 per year; a $2,000,000 property would increase by $660 per year.
According to McClain County Assessor Elizabeth Patrick, property taxes are calculated using the assessed value of a property, typically 11% of market value, regardless of whether the land is rural or agricultural. With the proposed increase, the effective rate would shift from 0.1% to 0.4%, significantly boosting available funding for campus needs.
Why is MATC requesting the increase? Mid-America Technology Center leadership says the millage increase is essential to meeting growing demand for career and technical education programs in the region. The additional funds would allow MATC to reduce student waiting lists, increase access for students from larger partner school districts, say “yes” to more students seeking high-demand workforce training programs.
Supt. Mike Eubank emphasized the importance of investing in training that directly supports Oklahoma’s workforce. “We want to be able to say ‘yes’ to every student who’s ready to pursue a skilled trade, earn credentials, and enter high-paying local careers,” Eubank said. “Right now, limited space and resources force us to turn students away. This building fund increase would change that.”
What’s next? The vote gives district residents the opportunity to support expanded facilities, updated equipment, and more student opportunities through local investment in the building fund. If passed, the funds will be used strictly for capital improvements, specifically to begin building a campus to better serve the northern part of McClain County.

Huge give-away set for Saturday
A word from Pastor, Bev Barker . . .
This coming Saturday, August 9, at Lindsay’s First Christian Church, there will be a huge give away of 300+ backpacks full of notebooks, pens, pencils, toothbrushes, toothpastes, deodorants, combs, two toys, a few pairs of underwear and a few pairs of socks, and all FREE!
Besides this huge give away of school supplies, we will be giving away free snow cones to all the kids, and there will be a huge Slip and Slide from Backwoods Bouncers there all day long!
But understand, this wasn’t just a Lindsay First Christian Church project. Several local businesses donated monies to go towards giving our students a good start to a new school year. Let me list them for you so you will know whom to thank and appreciate and give your business to in days to come: Rockin’ C Welding (Noah and Jordan Chambers), Jodie Lynne Finley and The Nutrition Lounge, Gonzales’ Mexican Restaurant, Casa 13 Mexican Restaurant, Dr. Boeckman and Lindsay Vision Center, Boyd’s Repair Service (Boyd Slay), Super C, Dr. Tammy Minton and Lindsay Veterinary Hospital, Lindsay Chiropractic Clinic, The Donut Palace, The Wright Cut, Walmart, Damon Padgett and Jake’s Short Stop, Tammy Henry and “Tammy’s Stuff,” Nabors Welding Supplies, Rinehart’s, Clements Insurance, Geffre’s Home Furnishings, The Party Pier, Custom Dental of Purcell, Shonda Tillman, Margaret and Joe Keeler, Cindy and Vern Roe, Bev Barker, and Lindsay’s First Christian Church.
All of these local businesses thought enough of and cared enough for the students of Lindsay Public Schools that they gave generously towards making sure all of our kids were offered and given not just school supplies, but essentials in making sure a kid started the year off and each day off feeling good about themselves.
I mentioned that also included inside each backpack are two toys. Actually one is a fidget and the other is a stress ball with a motivational saying on it.
We understand that today’s children and young people deal with anxieties and stresses that perhaps we as adults did not face or have to deal with when we were attending school. The fidget and stress ball may also be used as tools to help calm a student when anxious before having to give an oral book report or stand before the classroom to work something on the board; or even for some, just being in a classroom full of other kids making noise when they prefer their own quiet, empty space. So for those reasons, we wanted to include something for the kids to have that may help a rough day be better.
So this shindig is as the following:
*LOCATION: LINDSAY’S FIRST CHRISTIAN CHURCH
*DATE: THIS SATURDAY, AUGUST 9th
*TIME: 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.
*MOHAWK ICE IS GIVING AWAY FREE SNO CONES!
*HUGE SLIP AND SLIDE WATER SLIDE FOR KIDS ALL DAY LONG!
*KIDS PLAY OUTSIDE WHILE PARENTS COME INSIDE TO OUR COOL FELLOWSHIP HALL AND PICK UP BACKPACKS FOR THEIR KIDS, DRINK SOME COFFEE, HAVE SOME FUN CONVERSATION, AND END THE SUMMER WITH A LOT OF FREE STUFF! IT’LL BE A GREAT DAY!
To all of our local businesses who sent donations, we cannot thank you enough! And to Holly and William Belknap of THE SHOPPER, THANK YOU for publicizing this article also so even more folks in the community will have the chance to bring their kids to our end-of-the-summer event.
The phrase “UNITY in the COMMUNITY” comes to mind. It NEVER fails, whenever there is a need or a chance to help someone who’s perhaps fought a battle with their health, or lost their home to a fire, suffered a life-changing injury, or just needs help with school clothes and school supplies, LINDSAY NEVER FAILS to meet the needs. For what you’ve done for our “Backpack Blessings” hosted by First Christian Church, I am grateful. Thank you again! SEE YOU SATURDAY!!!

Lindsay school dates set
School starts for Lindsay students on Thurs., Aug. 14. Lindsay High School (LHS) students will need to pick up their class schedules for the 2025-2026 academic year in the High School office, according to a news release.
Lindsay High School is located at the corner of SW 8th and Creek Streets in Lindsay.
Sophomores may pick up their schedules on Wed., Aug. 6 from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Freshmen may pick up their schedules on Thurs., Aug 7 from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Juniors and Seniors were assigned days earlier in the week.
Students who are unable to pick up on their designated day may pick up their schedules later in the week.
New students enrolling in the Lindsay Public School district may pick up on the designated day for their grade.
Open House is set for Tues., Aug. 12 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., and the 2025 – 2026 school year begins on Thurs., Aug. 14.
Those who have further questions may contact the school at 405-756-3132.

Special election early voting begins Aug. 7
Early voting for the upcoming special election begins Thurs., Aug. 7, 2025, for voters in McClain and Garvin County. Voters who will not be able to make it to the polls on Election Day have the option of voting early.
Early voting is open to all voters. “You do not need to provide an excuse to vote early. Oklahoma allows early voting for all elections conducted by the County Election Board or State Election Board—from school board and municipal elections to state and federal elections. This is a great option for those who will be out of town on Election Day or who want to avoid long lines,” an Election Board secretary said.
Early voting is available Thursday, Aug. 7 and Fri., Aug 8 from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Garvin County Courthouse, Room 101, located at 121 N. 2nd Ave., in Pauls Valley. Voters are reminded that early voting is not available at polling locations.
Some voters may need assistance to vote because they are blind or visually disabled, physically disabled, or infirmed, or illiterate. Such individuals may request to have an assistant or vote privately and independently using the ATI device attached to the voting device. Those who require assistance should talk to their precinct official or contact the County Election Board directly for instructions.
The Garvin County Election Board is located inside the Garvin County Courthouse in Pauls Valley, First Floor, Room 8. Their hours are 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Monday thru Friday. Phone: (405) 238-3303.
The McClain County Election Board office is in Room 101, at 121 N. 2nd Ave. in Purcell (inside the McClain County Courthouse). Their hours are 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Monday thru Friday. Their website is mcclaincounty@elections.ok.gov. Phone: (405) 527-3121.
The Grady County Election Board office is located in the District Attorney Complex at 307 W. Pennsylvania Ave. in Chickasha. Phone: (405) 224-1430.

Meet the Leopards on Aug. 15
Mark your calendars, Leopards fans! Meet the Leopards is set for Fri., Aug. 15 beginning at 7:00 p.m., according to event cooridinators and Lindsay Varsity Cheer.
There will be family football photos following presentations, and a scrimmage with the Lindsay Little League directly after.
For more information, visit the Lindsay Varsity Cheer page on Facebook or contact the school at 405-756-3131.

Annual cake auction set Sat., Aug. 16
THE social event of the season is just around the corner.
You guessed it! Lindsay’s annual cake auction and buyers’ bar-b-que is set for Sat., Aug. 16 at the REC Multi-Purpose Center, located on Hwy. 76 North in Lindsay.
This is held in the evening after the FFA and 4-H students have shown their animals in the local show at the Fair Barn, located to the east of Hwy. 76 North.
Those who have questions may contact Ag Instructor Shyann McWhirter at 405-756-6704 or Aubrey Dorman at 405-756-0395.

Reserved parking for football season now available
Reserved parking passes for the 2025 Lindsay Leopard football season are now available in limited quantity, according to the Lindsay Leopard Quarterback Club.
These passes will allow priority parking outside the main gate for each home varsity game of the 2025 season, including playoffs.
To reserve your parking spot, call or text 405-756-7388 before they’re gone! For more information, visit the Lindsay Quarterback Club page on Facebook.

Absentee ballot deadline approaches
Voters in McClain County who want absentee ballots mailed to them for the Aug. 12, 2025 Mid-America Technology Center Special election should apply now, according to a press release.
Absentee ballots are available to all registered voters, provided they are eligible to vote in the election requested. No excuse is needed to vote by absentee ballot.
The deadline for requesting an absentee ballot is 5:00 p.m. Mon., July 28, 2025. Voters can submit a request using the OK Voter Portal at oklahoma.gov/elections/ovp. Request forms are also available at oklahoma.gov/elections and at the County Election Board office located at 121 N Second Avenue, Purcell.
Voters are reminded to allow time for an absentee ballot to be received, completed, and returned by mail to the County Election Board. “With some exceptions, all absentee ballot affidavits must be notarized before being returned. Voters should give themselves plenty of time to make sure all steps have been followed and that the ballot is returned on time in order to be counted,” an Election Board Secretary said.
Voters exempt from having an absentee ballot affidavit notarized include those who are physically incapacitated and those who care for physically incapacitated individuals that cannot be left alone. Voters who request a “physically incapacitated” ballot must have the signature on their absentee ballot affidavit witnessed by two people.
Military personnel and residents living overseas, along with their spouses and dependents, are also eligible for certain allowances. Military personnel should contact the Voting Services Officer in their unit for an Absentee Ballot Application. Residents living overseas may obtain Absentee Ballot Applications from any United States military installation or United States Embassy or Consulate. Military personnel and overseas citizens who are already registered voters in Oklahoma may apply for absentee ballots using the OK Voter Portal at oklahoma.gov/elections/ovp. Those who need to complete a new Voter Registration Application should apply through the Federal Voting Assistance Program at FVAP.gov.
All completed absentee ballots must be in the hands of the County Election Board no later than 7:00 p.m. on Election Day.
The McClain County Election Board is located at 121 N Second Ave., Purcell and is open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. For questions, please contact the Election Board at 405-527-3121 or
mcclaincounty@elections.ok.gov

Class of ’75 50-Year Reunion
The Lindsay High School Class of 1975 is set to have their 50-year Class Reunion on Saturday, Sept. 13, at the REC Multi Purpose Building, according to a press release.
There are plans for a tour of the school at 3:00 p.m. and then a taco bar for dinner at 6:00 p.m. that evening.
There will be a small fee for attendance, due Fri., Aug. 15. Payments may be sent to Janice Harmon Bruton at P.O. Box 925 in Lindsay. A Venmo account is to be setup soon for ease of payment.
For more information, contact Richard Stubblefield at 405-743-9662 or Barbara Burditt Beasley at 405-850-2064.

Business Brief—Jim Burton & Assoc. now Black Hat Realty
Local real estate agency Jim Burton & Associates, LLC has been renamed to Black Hat Realty under the same management and location, according to owner and managing broker William Belknap.
“It’s the same great folks with decades of experience,” Mr. Belknap explained.
Black Hat Realty is located at 301 W. Cherokee in Lindsay. For more information or to inquire about buying or selling property in the Lindsay area, call 405-756-3555.

Historical photos found, available to community
A treasure trove of vintage photographs of historical events and members of the Lindsay area community have been located and are available at the Shopper News Note to those in the who would like a copy. Some of those photos can be found in this edition of the Shopper.
For more information, stop by our office at 311 W. Cherokee, Suite C (inside the Lindsay Tag Agency), call us at 405-756-3169, or email us at theshopper@valornet.com.

Identify and avoid heat injury this summer
Fun in the sun is a big part of the appeal of summer. Outdoor recreation and relaxation kicks up a notch each summer, contributing to a vibe that is as welcoming as it is warm.
Summer is indeed all about recreation, but individuals also must remain safe when spending time outdoors. Heatstroke is a potentially deadly condition that can be prevented with some basic knowledge of what it is and how it manifests.
What is heatstroke? The Mayo Clinic notes that heatstroke is caused by the body overheating. When individuals suffer heatstroke, it is usually because they have been exposed to high temperatures for long periods of time or have been physically exerting themselves in such conditions.
How serious is heatstroke? The medical examiner’s office in Maricopa County, Arizona noted that heat deaths surged by 50 percent in the city of Phoenix in 2023. Rising temperatures related to climate change have made it less safe to be outdoors on certain days. The risk for heat-related death is serious in places like Phoenix when the mercury rises, but anyone anywhere can succumb to the heat if they are not careful. By no means are deaths due to heatstroke or other heat-related illnesses exclusive to individuals in traditionally warm locales like Phoenix. Despite that vulnerability, various organizations, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, note that heat-related illnesses are preventable. Prevention involves recognition of symptoms prior to going outdoors and a willingness to go inside should any symptoms begin to arise.
Heatstroke can manifest in various ways, producing symptoms that may include:
· Elevated body temperature: The Mayo Clinic notes that a core body temperature of 104 F or higher is a main sign of heatstroke.
· Altered mental state: Someone suffering from heatstroke may begin to feel confused, agitated, irritable, and/or delirious. In addition, such individuals may begin to behave erratically, which can involve slurred speech.
· Changes in sweating patterns: People may begin to sweat differently depending on why they are suffering from heatstroke. When heatstroke is brought on by hot weather, a person’s skin will feel hot and dry to the touch, notably leading to a lack of sweat. When heatstroke occurs because of strenuous exercise in hot weather, the skin may feel dry and slightly moist.
· Nausea and vomiting: Heatstroke can make people feel sick to their stomach and even induce vomiting.
· Flushed skin: This recognizable symptom is marked by skin turning red as body temperature spikes.
· Changes in breathing: Heatstroke can cause rapid, shallow breathing.
· Elevated heart rate: The Harvard Medical School notes that the heart experiences stress when the human body sheds heat. That stress can cause the heart to beat faster and pump harder.
· Headache: Some people with heatstroke experience a throbbing headache.
The CDC notes that drinking plenty of water, cooling off in air conditioned rooms, limiting time outdoors on particularly hot days, taking frequent breaks if you must be outside, and wearing light-colored, loose-fitting clothing and sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher are some ways to beat the heat and avoid heatstroke.
Heatstroke is a notable, yet preventable threat. Making an effort to avoid heatstroke while spending time outdoors this summer can ensure the season is safe and fun.

OMPA begins supplying electricity to Lindsay
The Oklahoma Municipal Power Authority (OMPA) officially began supplying wholesale electricity to the City of Lindsay on June 1, 2025, following the city’s recent
decision to join the growing list of municipally owned utilities served by OMPA.
With this addition, Lindsay becomes the 43rd Oklahoma city or town being served by OMPA since the organization’s founding.
Those who would like further information may contact the City of Lindsay at 405-756-2019.

McClain County Precinct 26 polling place change
The polling place for Precinct 26 has changed, according to a press release from the McClain County Election Board. The County Election Board has recently completed a review of precinct and district information and has determined that some precinct changes are necessary.
Voters in Precinct 26 formerly voted at Purcell New Mission Holiness Church at 20578 180th Street, Purcell, OK 73080.
Effective June 1, 2025, these voters will now vote at Precinct 10 which is Criner Baptist Church, 17943 May Avenue, Lindsay, OK 73052.
Those who would like more information may call the McClain County Election Board at 405-527-3121, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Mon. through Fri.

OSDH shares water safety tips for summer fun
According to the Oklahoma State Department of Health, drowning is preventable; however, it is the leading cause of injury deaths among children ages one to four years in Oklahoma. It is essential to be water aware because drowning can occur silently and in as little as two inches of water. This is why, most often, people aren’t aware someone is drowning until it is too late. Below are some tips to follow to prevent drownings.
Always provide close, constant and undistracted supervision when children are in or near water.
Adults should be within an arm’s reach of young children and actively watching them without distractions such as phones or reading materials, and while avoiding alcohol and drugs.
Ensure children and adults learn to swim and understand basic water safety, such as floating, treading water, and safe water entry and exit.
Wear a life jacket, especially when in or around natural bodies of water.
Install four-sided isolation fencing with self-closing and self-latching gates around pools to help prevent children from getting in a backyard pool unsupervised. Fences should follow the Rule of 4: all 4 sides of pool, at least 4 feet high, with gaps smaller than 4 inches.
Know how to recognize and respond to a swimmer in distress and maintain certification in CPR to provide immediate assistance in emergencies.
Teach children basic swimming and water safety skills to reduce the risk of drowning.
Children who have had swimming lessons still need close and constant supervision when in or around water.
Water can also be associated with swimming-related illnesses. It is important to follow these recommendations to stay healthy while enjoying water activities.
Shower before entering a pool, hot tub or splash pad.
Do not enter the water if you currently have or have recently had diarrhea.
Take a break every hour to use the bathroom and check diapers if you are swimming with kids.
Don’t swallow the water or let it go up your nose.
Avoid sitting or standing on any jets.
Before visiting lakes, oceans, or other natural bodies of water, check for and follow swimming, fishing, and shellfish advisories.
If the water looks or smells bad, stay out and keep kids, pets and livestock away.
If you think you see an algal bloom at a public lake or any other public recreational area, notify the lake manager immediately.
The Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) protects and improves public health through its system of local health services and strategies focused on preventing disease. OSDH provides technical support and guidance to 68 county health departments in Oklahoma, as well as guidance and consultation to the two independent city-county health departments in Oklahoma City and Tulsa. Learn more at Oklahoma.gov/health.

Walk-Ins welcome for REAL ID, DL, and ID
Oklahoma’s federally compliant REAL ID is here for licensed Oklahoma drivers! That’s the word from Lindsay Tag Agent, Holly Belknap. Walk-in appointments are welcome from 7:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Mon. through Fri.
As of May 7, 2025, REAL ID will be required to board any domestic flight in the United States, enter federal buildings and facilities, or enter U.S. military bases. A REAL ID document checklist is available at the Tag Agency of Lindsay, located at 311 W. Cherokee, Suite C, in Lindsay.
Those who have questions may contact the Tag Agency at 405-756-3169.

Recreation activities offered at George Brown Park
Did you know our city lake at George Brown Park offers fishing, camping, disk golf, a walking path, pavillion, and several picnic tables?
Camping permits may be acquired at the Lindsay Municipal Golf Course Pro Shop by the lake during business hours. After hours permits may be obtained at the Lindsay Police Department located at 801 Industrial Heights.
Fishing permits and licensure are required by the State of Oklahoma, and can be purchased online at http://www.wildlifedepartment.com/licensing.
For more information, call the Pro Shop at 405-756-3611 or City Hall at 405-756-2019. The lake, George Brown Park, and Lindsay Municipal Golf Course are located three miles north of Lindsay on SH-76.

Delta Bus program seeks donations
Since 2010, Frankie Minton of the Lindsay, successfully collected the amount of money that is required to support the Delta Bus Program for Lindsay’s Senior Citizens Ride Free program. Sadly, Ms. Minton passed away on Christmas Day of 2023. The Seniors Ride Free program was Ms. Minton’s passion, and the women of Lindsay Beta Sigma Phi have elected to continue this effort in her memory.
The many contributions from our community have been much appreciated and we hope to do the same again this year with your help.
Many of the senior citizens in Lindsay and the surrounding area do not have access to transportation, either due to not being able to afford a car, or they are no longer able to drive. Many have a limited income and cannot afford the fee to ride the bus if this program did not exist.
Therefore, in order to help support this very important segment of the community, Lindsay Beta Sigma Phi is collecting donations to guarantee that senior citizens will ride free on the Delta Bust Transit.
All money donated for this purpose will be given to the Delta Bus Transit for the continuance of this program.
“We hope everyone will dig deep in their pockets to help our senior citizens. Any size donation is welcome and much appreciated,” one member went on to say.
Donors are asked to make their checks out to Delta Bus Transit and mail to: Delta Public Transit, 308 SW Second Street, Lindsay, OK 73052. A receipt will be mailed to the donor, if needed.
The women of Lindsay Beta Sigma Phi thank everyone for their support.

State program to help families with failing septic systems
Yearly, hundreds of Oklahomans are confronted with raw sewage waste in their yards or backing up into their homes because of a failing septic system. Often the system is beyond repair or is so old it doesn’t meet current state requirements, and a new system is required which can cost thousands of dollars. These failing systems don’t just cause issues for homeowners, but failing systems near our streams, rivers, and lakes can cause issues with water pollution, especially bacteria, that can affect hundreds of people. Several Oklahoma state agencies are joining the effort by introducing a new program to help homeowners repair or replace failing septic systems, according to a press release.
The Oklahoma Conservation Commission received funding from the Oklahoma Water Resources Board to help landowners within 1,320 feet of a stream repair or replace failing septic systems. The Department of Environmental Quality will provide free soil profiles for qualified applicants and the Grand River Dam Authority is helping administer the program. Qualified homeowners may be reimbursed for expenses up to $15,000, but there are some conditions that must be met to qualify. Applications are accepted on a first come, first served basis and owners must have an approval letter before they begin any work on installing or repairing the system.
“Failing septic systems close to a water body can have a negative impact on water quality and introduce bacteria, such as E. coli, into the state’s waterways,” said Shanon Phillips, OCC Director of Water Quality. “We have done similar programs focused on smaller watersheds, but this is the first time we have done anything statewide.”
“This initiative is a prime example of how strategic partnerships can make a real difference in the lives of Oklahomans,” said Lori Johnson, Chief of the Financial Assistance Division at the Oklahoma Water Resources Board. “Failing septic systems create serious health and environmental risks, but the unexpected costs of repair or replacement can be overwhelming for many homeowners. By working together, we are not only protecting our state’s water resources but also helping ease the financial burden on families who might otherwise struggle to afford these critical improvements.”
For information about the program or to pick up an application, visit your local county conservation district, visit conservation.ok.gov, or email Jeri Fleming at jeri.fleming@grda.com

Post 23 extends invitation to community
American Legion Auxiliary, Post 23, is an organization that plays a vital role in supporting veterans, military personnel and their families, while also promoting patriotism in our communities, according to President Radena Chambers.
“Our statement is ‘To serve those who have served,’ and to accomplish this, we sponsor various projects for fundraising,” President Chambers stated. “The ‘Mile of Pennies’ is one such project we have just completed to provide assistance for the tornado victims in Sulphur. Our bake sales raise funds strictly by donations,” she continued.
President Chambers described the “Mile of Pennies” project to provide assistance for tornado victims of Sulphur, an inaugural event called “Egg My Yard” where parents purchased eggs and members hid them in the yard for children to seek the next morning, and the monthly Bingo fundraiser held at the Senior Nutrition Center. Each year on May 24, in support of National Poppy day, Post 23 provides an opportunity for the community to donate funds for medical and financial needs of veterans or active duty military personnel and their families. “The poppy helps remind us of the sacrifice of those who gave their lives for the freedoms and lives we are able to enjoy today,” she explained.
Additionally, Post 23 provides scholarship opportunities for graduating seniors in the local community, as well as looks to sponsor a candidate for Girls State each year. For Girls State, girls in their junior year of high school are encouraged to apply during the spring semester for this educational experience that promotes growth in leadership. Participants learn about the political process, are assigned to mock cities and political parties, and elect individuals to actively manage varying levels of a mock state government.
Spouses, parents, grandparents, and siblings of honorably discharged or deceased veterans are also invited to join the American Legion family.
Meetings are held on the first Tuesday of each month at 6:00 p.m. in the Lindsay Senior Nutrition Center located at 301 W. Choctaw. For additional information, President Chambers can be reached at 405-754-0137 or Vice President Misty Salie at 405-756-7705.

Tours and stories offered at historic mansion
The Lindsay Community Historical Society invites the public to visit the Historic Murray Lindsay Mansion that was the home of the Murray’s and the Lindsay’s from 1881 until the early 1960s.
Many stories can be told of these families who took pride in helping to establish the Erin Springs and Lindsay communities.
“Several of the Lewis and Anita Lindsay families live in Oklahoma, Texas, and other states. They have their stories to tell and one of the great granddaughters has written a blog you can listen to as you visit each room in the Mansion,” added Thelma Love.
The Mansion tour hours are available
by appointment by calling 405-919-6146 or 405-756-6502.

Celebrate Recovery meets every Monday
Celebrate Recovery meets every Monday at the Erin Springs Baptist Church, according to Kim Dutton.
Celebrate Recovery is a Christ-centered, 12-step recovery program for anyone struggling with hurt, habits, or hangups of any kind.
Celebrate Recovery is a safe place to find community and freedom from the issues that are controlling our lives.
Erin Springs Baptist Church is located south of Lindsay, at 13053 Hwy. 76.
A meal is served at 5:30. The meeting starts at 6:30. Childcare is provided.
Those who have questions may contact Ms. Dutton at 469-389-8390.

Blessings are available to give or receive
A Blessing Box has been placed on the west side of the Lindsay Senior Nutrition Center, located at 310 W. Choctaw in Lindsay.
An additional box has been placed at the Scout Hut by Azariah Raisch as an Eagle Scout project. The Scout Hut is located at 800 S.W. 4th St. in Lindsay.
Those who are able may leave unopened non-perishable food items as well as new hygiene products in the box, according to Kim Dutton.
The items placed in the box will be available to anyone in need and may be picked up at any time. “Just open the box and take what you need,” Ms. Dutton explained.

Clothes closet is open in downtown Lindsay
Erin Springs Baptist Church is extending a helping hand through its clothes closet initiative, open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., according to Pastor Mike Ridgway.
The initiative aims to provide essential clothing and household items to those in need. Every week, new items are stocked, ensuring a fresh selection for visitors.
Donations of clothes and various household essentials such as bedding, towels, dishes, and cookware are warmly welcomed. These contributions play a vital role in sustaining the operation and expanding its outreach.
Located at 219 S. Main, the Erin Springs Baptist Church clothes closet offers support and assistance to individuals and families.
For inquiries or to offer support, individuals can reach out to the church directly at 405-756-2653.

Lindsay Library welcomes visitors
Lindsay Community Library welcomes all readers in Lindsay and surrounding areas, according to Director, Brenda Norrell.
“We gladly accept donations of hardback books published within the last three years and current paperback books in good shape. We also have a table with free books for those who want to expand their home libraries.” Ms. Norell explained.
The library is located at 112 W. Choctaw in Lindsay and is open Mon., Tues., Wed., and Fri. from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Thurs., from 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m., and Sat., 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon.
The Lindsay Community Library also has numerous historical pictures and information related to Lindsay and surrounding area and a multi-purpose room available to the public.
Everyone is encouraged to follow Lindsay Community Library on Facebook, Ms. Norrell added.
Those needing more information may contact Ms. Norrell at 405-756-3449.