Surrey - July/August

y e r r u S Taking You Places Today!

Taking Flight Pilots celebrate Will Rogers and Wiley Post at annual Fly-In

LATE SUMMER 2013 Vol. 5 No. 6 • A Claremore Daily Progress Publication

COMPLIMENTARY COMPLIMENTARY

Spencer Slater:

e things ’t physically do th dn ul co I at th ed iz In 2008, I real pounds, t was around 210 gh ei w y M . do to I used affect my job ght was starting to and being overwei the Claremore my health. I joined as l el w as ce an m gular perfor exercising on a re n ga be d an er nt Recreation Ce k, my workout sing six days a wee ci er ex d te ar st I incline on basis. alking on a steep w k is br of g tin is routine cons r four miles each the Summit Traine g in us or ill dm ea eating the tr intake and began rie lo ca y m ck ba t year day. I also cu d lean protein. A ts, vegetables, an ui fr e or m r; ie th heal cise routine. t lifting to my exer ago I added weigh my energy of 55 pounds, and I have lost a total ve more dramatically. I ha d se ea cr in s ha l leve at withstand the he stamina and I can er months. My more in the summ d cholesterol blood pressure an d levels have droppe I feel considerably, and much healthier.

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Surrey Taking You Places Today!

Taking Flight Page 12

Vol. 5 No. 6 n LATE SUMMER 2013

3 8 The Branson ‘must’ list Page 19

12 19 26

Bluegrass and Chili Festival Page 30 2 LATE SUMMER 2013 Surrey

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A Family Feast Volunteers for First Christian Church of Claremore serve free hot meals to the community every week. The dinner combines hot food and fellowship.

Last Things To Do Before School Starts The fun and reality of the last days of summer come with planning. There is still time to squeeze in a short vacation and still get ready for the start of school.

Taking Flight A grass strip at the Will Rogers Birthplace Ranch will be the site of the annual Will Rogers and Wiley Post Fly-In. Vintage planes, World War II planes, experimental aircraft and helicopters will come for the event.

The Branson ‘must’ list Close, convienient Branson, Mo. offers a variety of fun for the entire family, including music shows, amusement park rides and down-home fun.

Gatesway Balloonfest More than 30 hot air balloons are expected for the annual festival. It is the sixth annual installment of the family event.

Bluegrass and Chili Festival The annual event includes three stages of music by national and regional artists and the Mid-America Regional Chili Cook-off and Salsa Competition.

Friendship Feast

Members of First Christian Church of Claremore provide free hot meals to the public every week. “Friendship Dinners” include a meat, side dish, bread, dessert and beverage.

Dinner combines hot food, fellowship

By MARK FRIEDEL Volunteers for First Christian Church of Claremore’s “Friendship Dinner” serve free hot meals every week to Rogers County residents in need of food.

“We went to the congregation with the idea three years ago,” said Russ Riffle, project director and First Christian Church member. “When we first kicked it off, we had close to 30 people who would attend. Now the dinner averages more than 100.”

Riffle said First Christian Church prepares meals three weeks a month, while volunteers from Redeemer Lutheran Church serve one week a month.

Originally, the church had a meal for the congregation where everybody paid $5.

“This was basically the seed money that helped pay for the groceries, and for the most part we stayed in the black,” said Riffle. “Now we put out a donation basket for whoever wants to donate, and we’re still in the black.”

Of the 100 people fed each week, about 45 actually need the food. The rest are from different churches around the community, he said.

“An older man came to me one evening and said don’t ever stop doing this. He was single, and loved the fellowship and not having to cook,” said Riffle. “This was another purpose the meal served LATE SUMMER 2013 Surrey 3

Beating the heat and squeezing in last minute vacations Temperatures continue to reach for the century mark as summer begins to wind to a close. The heat and humidity have lessened this year compared to the extreme heat over the past three years.

We have adapted to enduring the oppressive atmosphere, but now we relish the cooler climate. As summer draws to a close and families ready themselves for the coming school year, there is still time to squeeze in one more trip to the lake or a short excursion to Branson.

In this issue of Surrey, readers can find activities to accomplish before school starts. Lycrecia Atkins outlines things to do before school starts.

RANDY COWLING Salesha Wilken documents what is a “must” see at Branson, Mo. One way to beat the heat is to not cook at home. Volunteers of First Christian Church are helping the community by providing a free hot meal weekly. Mark Friedel tells how the church’s dinner combines hot food and fellowship for the community.

Three annual events that make the end of summer give our readers an opportunity celebrate our culture and local heritage.

On Aug. 18, a variety of pilots will arrive on an airstrip at the Will Rogers Birthplace Ranch for the annual Will Rogers and Wiley Post Fly-In. Pilots celebrate the lives of Rogers and Post during the weekend festivities.

The annual Bluegrass and Chili Festival marks the end of summer with plenty of music, chili and salsa. National and regional musicians will entertain during the event.

Want to see hot air balloons fly over Claremore? The Gatesway Balloonfest attracts more than 30 hot air balloons to the Cherokee Casino Will Rogers Downs in September. The event offers a up close look at balloons and opportunities to take a ride.

Summer is almost over and there is plenty of things to do.

Whatever you do, find a way to beat the heat and enjoy the final days of summer.

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Surrey Taking you places today!

Surrey © 2013 All rights reserved.

Published Bi-monthly by The Daily Progress SEND COMMENTS TO: The SURREY @ The Daily Progress 315 W. Will Rogers Boulevard Claremore, OK 74017 P.O. Box 248 Claremore, OK 74018 E-mail — rcowling@claremoreprogress.com Bailey Dabney, publisher Randy Cowling, editor and designer CONTRIBUTORS Tom Fink Salesha Wilken Mark Friedel Lycrecia Atkins ADVERTISING INFORMATION: 918-341-1101 addir@claremoreprogress.com All copy and advertising in the Surrey are copyrighted and cannot be reproduced.

Some photos used by permission of source.

that we never thought about.”

At one time the First Christian Church of Claremore’s services split; one being contemporary and the other traditional. Since then Riffle said the two services have combined, mixing traditional with contemporary.

“We needed something that would bring those two groups of people together, and that’s what the Friendship Dinner has done.”

To make the feast special, instead of paper products, volunteers use china dishes.

“For those people that are less fortunate who don’t have meals everyday, using real dishes is something special to them. This has made a big difference for a lot of folks and kept them coming back.”

With the Lutheran and First Christian Church both in a low-income area, Riffle said there is definitely a need for the fellowship. At each dinner, prayer requests are left on tables for anyone to sign. Requests are then given to the pastor and included in Sunday prayer.

“We don’t push church. If someone wants to talk about church we will, but we don’t force it upon them,” said Riffle.

The “Friendship Dinner” is held from 5-6:30 p.m. every Monday evening at the First Christian Church of Claremore, 200 East 5th Street. For more information, call (918) 341-1199.

Women of Redeemer Lutheran Church serve up a tasty pot luck.Val Spradlin, Kathleen Iwanaga, Pat Sutur, Karla Naegele, Roz Burger.

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Harmony Star

Friendship Dinner reaches out to the community

First Christian Church provided free weekly hot meals to the community. Volunteers prepare the food and serve each Monday.

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Last Minute Things To Do Before School Starts

By LYCRECIA ATKINS

B

ack-to-school displays are going up in local stores, and August is fast approaching on calendars. Schools within the Claremore I.S.D. start back August 15 and many other schools in the area begin within the same timeframe. For many, this reality rattles our summer slumber and serves as a reminder time is closing in on last-minute vacations and plans for fall school schedules.

8 LATE SUMMERâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;2013 Surrey

Still time for a mini-vacation and back to school shopping The fun and reality of the last days of summer come with planning, or maybe just “winging,” some of the following activities families may consider as the clock ticks toward back-to-school: Fun Time It’s not too late for a family vacation. While a twoweek trip out of the country may be a bit much for many families at summer’s end, there are many regional and local vacations that are a great option.

Lisa Dennis, marketing coordinator for the Claremore Convention and Vistors Bureau, recommends a Route 66 tour in the area.

“Route 66 trips on a tank have become very popular,” Dennis said.

“There is a lot to see locally, from the Blue Whale in Catoosa, to the great museums in Claremore and the Totem Pole Park in Foyil.”

Enjoying local points of interest or other area activities, such as camping, can save time and money and give kids a fun learning experience. Lake Oologah offers several camping options with RV hookups, cabins or daily swimming sites. For families who just want to tent camp, bathhouses are available in some areas.

These amenities can often be booked online. Go to www.recreation.gov, for booking or additional information.

And, families craving out-of-state travel can consider nearby cities such as San Antonio, Texas. The San Antonio River Walk will be hosting events throughout the summer, including guided bat tours every Tuesday night at the river level, a canoe race and outdoor musical performances.

Be deliberate about summer slumber

After the reality of hectic schedules and early morning practices arrive, the summer mornings spent sleeping in suddenly seem taken for granted.

Before school starts, try to schedule summer activities for the whole family, which may include staying up late watching a family movie, sleeping in, swimming, or cooking out in the back yard.

Scheduling play dates with friends before summer vacation is over is also summer slumber well spent.

Summer Activities Now is also the time for wrapping up summer activities and trying to squeeze in some activities kids are interested in, such as camps and lessons. Claremore Community Center will continue to host summer camps through the first week of August, and there is still time to enroll in some of those, with the exception of the archery camp.

The list of camps and contact information can be found at http://www.claremorecity.com/DocumentCenter/View/2967.

Reality

Fall schedules Bringing summer activities to an end provides a great time to discuss what most-interests family members in considering fall schedules.

The Claremore Community Center, in conjunction with the Claremore Recreation Center can serve as a great resource for families, including a number of sports activities this fall.

There will be clinics providing basic soccer and basketball skills for kids, among a range of other activities.

You can check theWeb site for more information at http://www.claremorecity.com/BusinessDirecto-

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ryII.aspx?lngBusinessCategoryID=26. From gymnastics and dance classes to high school sports activities, making a plan now can help eliminate stress later.

Students should also be enrolling soon in their respective school as soon as possible if they have not already.

Each school has individual policies regarding enrollment.

It’s not too late to enroll for many schools, both public and private, but a phone call or a look at school Web sites to get an idea of what is expected is a good idea.

Requirements may include such things as immunizations, proof of residency, and certain items needed for the upcoming class year.

School clothes and back-to-school supplies Purchasing new clothes and school supplies is on

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the top of many families’ agendas for back-to-school.

The Oklahoma sales tax holiday will be Aug. 2-4 this year, according to the Oklahoma Tax Commission Web site.

This will give families the opportunity to purchase clothing or footwear exempt from sales tax, if the article of clothing or footwear is less than $100 in value. For more information, visit www.tax.gov/stholiday. School supply lists for most area schools will be available in some Claremore businesses, including Wal-Mart and Reasor’s.

Immunizations Many kids returning to school will need immunizations, depending on their age.

Families in the area coordinate this with pediatricians and doctor’s offices, and can also utilize the Rogers County Health Department.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

Taking Flight

N

By PAT REEDER

o one is sure what year the Will Rogers & Wiley Post Fly-In on the grass strip at the Will Rogers Birthplace Ranch was initiated. But those who have been participating more than two decades are certain it has grown like “Topsy.”

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Planes and More for Will Rogers & Wiley Post Fly-In If success is in the numbers, the 2012 event was the best ever. More than 100 pilots signed the Fly-In log book (and not everyone signed). The grounds near the house where Will was born on Nov. 4, 1879 was filled with spectators, young and old, in strollers, on their father’s shoulders, elders in walkers and with canes, in tennis shoes, and in church clothes, coming directly from church.

This year on Aug. 18, the 78th year since Will and Wiley perished in an Alaska plane crash, the grounds will again be teeming with activities for everyone, highlighed by an opportunity to get a close-up and personal look at airplanes.

Spectators can be assured additional parking is being provided this year on a part of the Birthplace Ranch near the entry. Event hours are 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Vintage airplanes, World War II planes, experimental aircraft, helicopters, all types of aircraft, will be landing on the 2,000-foot grass strip, adjacent to the birthplace home. Ross Adkins and Tony Isler will announce planes and introduce pilots as they taxi down the strip.

The day is an opportunity for pilots to renew friendships, fellowship with other aviation admirers, and pay tribute to the man who had a major role in introducing aviation to the world in his writings and public appearances.

Will and Wiley are planning to make a comeback.

Joe Bacon, Pryor pilot and Will Rogers Roper (docent), and Lester Lurk, St. Genevieve, Mo., who

Joe Bacon, Pryor pilot and Will Rogers Roper (docent), and Lester Lurk, St. Genevieve, Mo., bear a resemblance to Will, will land about 10 a.m. on Sunday.

bears a resemblance to Will, will land about 10 a.m.

Bring a lawn chair and sit in the shade to watch planes come and go and visit the room where Will was born; or listen and interact with the wonderful stories shared by Cherokee storyteller Robert Lewis.

A favorite of the children is return of the inflatable playground.

Antique and classic cars will be lined up on the grounds. Visitors will have an opportunity to vote for “Peoples Choice” plane and car. Food concessions and a Will Rogers Memorial Museum gift store will be available. resenting sponsors of the LATE SUMMER Surrey 13

BEAUTIFULLY DESIGNED • DISTINCTIVELY BUILT

Antique car owners will show off their vehicles during the annual Will Rogers and Wiley Post Fly-In.

The 2012 Will Rogers & Wiley Post Fly-In was a record success in numbers — plane landing and spectators watching.

The Fly-In at the Will Rogers Birthplace Ranch has outgrown the former designated parking space.

New parking will be opened up for this year’s event, Aug. 18, from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The Fly-In has grown from a small number of planes with pilots showcasing their planes and sharing stories with each other and spectators, to an event which last year drew more than 100 planes and several thousand spectators.

Visitors can bring their own lawn chair and sit on the grass watching planes land.

They are welcomed onto the field for a close-up of planes and visit with pilots. Additional entertainment on the grounds will be Cherokee Storyteller Robert Lewis, inflatables for children, antique and classic car show, and tours of the 1875 ranch house to see the room where Will was born on Nov. 4, 1879, and tours of the era-correct Amish-built barn.

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Spectators will have an opportunity to vote for Peoples Choice car and plane.

Tim Jarrett will return as Fly-In coordinator with Civil Air Patrol helping park planes.

Ross Adkins and Tony Isler will be on the microphone identifying planes and pilots as they arrive.

Concessions will be available and the Will Rogers Memorial Museum Store will have a booth.

Will Rogers Downs Cherokee Nation Business, for the second consecutive year, has joined Will Rogers Memorial Museum and Will Rogers Memorial Foundation as the Fly-in presenting sponsor.

Cherokee storyteller Robert Lewis interacting with spectators at Fly-In

August 15 78th Anniversary of Will Rogers Death Will Rogers Memorial Museum 1720 West Will Rogers 9 a.m. Fly-Over and placing of wreath at the family tomb: Doris “Coke” Meyer, Will Rogers’ great-niece, Claremore Mayor MIckey Perry, and State Senator Sean Burrage and State Representative Marty Quinn •Vocalist: Mary West, Oologah businesswoman °Reception following August 18 Will Rogers Birthplace Ranch 9501 E. 380 Road Oologah Presenting Sponsors Will Rogers Downs Chero-

kee Nation, Will Rogers Memorial Museums, and Will Rogers Memorial Foundation Will Rogers & Wiley Post Fly-In 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

•Bring your lawn chair and set under the shade while watching planes land on grass strip adjacent to Will Rogers’ birthplace •Visit pilots and get a close-up look at planes •Announcer identifying pilots and planes •Antique and Classic Car Show •Cherokee Storyteller Robert Lewis •Tours of Birthplace and Barn where children can pet goats and burros and watch chickens •Inflatables for children •Concessions Available •Free admission

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FROM PAGE 8

LaDeana Shouse, R.N./P.H.N. with the Rogers County Health Department stresses the importance of making certain vaccinations are current before heading back to school.

“Immunizations stop diseases before they start and are important in saving your children’s life,” Shouse said. “They also save your family time and money by reducing your child’s risk of becoming ill. We advise getting immunizations done before the hectic schedule of going back to school even begins.”

The Rogers County Health Department offers immunizations yearround by appointment, or Wednesdays and Thursdays are walk-in days.

Hours are Monday through Friday 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

Shouse recommends bringing shot records and allowing time for paperwork to be completed. For

more information, call 918.341.3166 or visit http://www.ok.gov/health/County_Health_Departments/Rogers_County_Health_Department/.

Sleep Routines Waking up early every morning for school can be a tough battle for kiddos who have been accustomed to a late to bed, late to wake summer schedule.

The National Sleep Foundation indicates children age 5-12 need 10-11 hours of sleep each night, which can be tough when going back to school. Hectic schedules for school and adjusting to the new hours can cause a lot of drama on early school mornings.

The National Sleep Foundation recommends trying to return to school sleep routines about two weeks before school starts.

According to their website, this works best by incrementally setting an earlier bedtime, and taking small steps toward the earlier wake-up time, as well.

The Branson “must” list

By SALESHA WILKEN Summertime brings about the search for the “perfect” vacation spot to escape the memory or expectations of another hectic school year.

As the joys of summer wind to a close and parents gear up for football, marching band and a variety of other fall activities, many will seek sweet refuge in a last minute trip.

My family is no exception.

However, with several preplanned summer camps, family reunions and business meetings, I found summer vacation quickly disappearing prompting panic.

That is when I decided there was no better time to book another trip to Branson, Missouri as my family visits the area about twice a year.

Close, convenient and offering more choices than the buffet at the Golden Corral, I planned a return visit.

Keeping in mind the priorities of many young families, I thought it would be nice to LATE SUMMER 2013

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Silver Dollar City’s Outlaw Run rollercoaster features a 162-feet drop and is more than 16 stories tall.

share my scoop on the 2013 “must visit” attractions before your family purchasing tickets this fall.

The first stop is Silver Dollar City a “ 2013 must see.”

The park kicked off the 2013 season with the addition of the new state-of-the-art wooden roller coaster “Outlaw-Run” and let’s face it if you have children you know this will be their top priority.

For those who love the numbers, the ride features several “world’s first and only” characteristics.

“Outlaw Run” has the first and only double barrel roll, 720 degrees, on a wood coaster.

It features a drop of 162-feet, more than 16 stories, at 81 degrees, which means you are nearly vertical or in my case nearly terrified.

I would not recommend the front car if you are afraid of heights, however it was a complete adrenaline rush.

The ride is the only wood coaster to twist upside down three times and is the second fastest wood coaster in the world.

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The ride duration is one minute 27 seconds, giving riders the opportunity to catch “air” nine times along the 2,937 feet of track.

It is so exhilarating you will barely have time to hope the 89,000 bolts and 59,000 wood screws used during construction have been properly installed.

The fun and excitement of the new coaster will likely place this park on the must visit list for serious coaster enthusiast, but the number one question has yet to be answered.

No, you wont walk away from this ride thinking you need to call the chiropractor.

Surprising smooth for a wood coaster, riders of all ages over the height of 48 inches are likely to enjoy the “Outlaw Run.” Knowing that most children love visiting theme parks, I wanted to make sure we had the opportunity to experience a family activity that would not leave my feet aching.

My goal was to find an activity that would force my children to unplug from the ipod, cell phone

Ride a zipline and see the countryside. and video game long enough to engage their parents for more than the few minutes.

An unusual concept for kids today, but even at a theme park your teen is probably going to Facebook or Tweet about the “Outlaw Run.” Then with some luck, I found what I never expected. A vacation experience like no other, providing my family with a memory we will treasure forever.

We took a two-hour adventure with the Branson Zipline and Canopy Tour Company, making it my “must do” for 2013.

Nestled in the Wolfe Creek Preserve, the ziplines take you on a spectacular tour through nature.

I never expected my family to love this, because they are all afraid of heights. To my surprise they could not stop talking about it.

They can’t wait to go back and take their retired grandparents.

The zipline course is designed for all ages and is a supervised tour with Association for Challenge Course Technology (ACCT) certified guides.

Safety is the number one concern. The staff took every step to insure we would not have to worry about safety and could focus on the experience.

The beautiful scenery, interesting history and captivating views are only highlights to the tour.

The number one reason I recommend every family take this tour is simple, although it may sound cliché, family bonding.

The course is designed to promote interaction not only among your family or group but also with other zipline participants.

Before you know it even the most introverted teenager is gushing with excitement.

No cell phones or cameras are permitted on the tour so you are guaranteed an electronic free experience.

The guides take photos for you if you like, so the memory is still captured.

The experience was a wonderful journey back to the basics of social interaction.

Even if you have a very open dialog with your family, I believe the experience offers a unique, exciting way to reconnect that anyone will appreciate.

For the daredevils at heart, a special treat awaits as the company offers the Blue Streak Fastline and Free Fall Xpress. With heights over 150 feet and a free fall from 100 feet in the air, even diehard thrill seekers will

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Family-oriented entertainment can be found across Branson, Mo. like the show “It.”

be pleased.

Offering a number of different tour options anyone that wants to experience nature in this unique and special way can find the right fit.

This tour easily is my favorite experience Branson has to offer and the tour can accommodate family reunions as well as other groups.

One added bonus is that you will get to experience nature in a true nature preserve that was virtually unchanged by the construction of this course.

The company took special measure to insure that the impact on the environment was limited, even having the platform poles flown in by helicopter during the construction phase.

Additionally, the eco-friendly adventure is managed thru a forestry management plan allowing guest to see nature in an undisturbed setting.

After the zipline, I realized it would be extremely 22 LATE SUMMER 2013 Surrey

difficult to top the experience, but we were successful in finding two of Branson’s top shows.

Everyone that has been to Branson knows that live shows are the bread and butter of the entertainment circuit.

Easily the best bargain for a quality show, The Dixie Stampede, has something special to offer making it the “must try” item on your vacation.

From the preshow entertainment to the national anthem, the show is engaging and the meal is delicious.

This year, the show brings back the racing ostriches an act the kids will find amusing and a bit unusual.

The cast provides an exceptional performance wrapped in good clean family entertainment.

The one new attraction that I believe is a “must watch” is the show “it”.

Funny and unusual name, but “it” truly is it, the one show in town that everyone can enjoy no matter what your taste in music.

The show features the five Hughes brothers, their wives and 33 children.

The largest performing family in show business, this group is exceptional.

A fantastic musical experience, “it” will warm your heart and have your toes tapping.

My family enjoyed the music featuring classical, country, pop, classic rock, patriotic and of course the oldies but goodies.

I believe that even the explorers and thrill seekers in your family will love this show.

I am like most moms and when I find something good, I will tell at least five people. If I really love it, I will tell 10 or 20, post it on Facebook, Tweet and encourage my coworkers to try it.

Saying all of that, I would add that “it” is such an amazing show it will have you buying tickets as gifts for friends or relatives.

All the “must” items this year will likely exceed your vacation expectations and keep you talking about your trip weeks later.

OOLOGAH, OKLAHOMA

WILL ROGERS BIRTHPLACE RANCH

2013

Airport Identifier: OK37

S U N D A Y, A U G U S T 1 8 8:30 A.M. - 1:00 P.M.

Celebrating Aviation in the Heartland!

See Vintage Aircraft, World War I Fighters, Experimentals, Bi-Planes, much more!

• FREE ADMISSION • ANTIQUE & CLASSIC CARS • LIVE MUSIC • CHEROKEE STORYTELLING • FOOD CONCESSIONS • INFLATABLE AMUSEMENTS Will Rogers Birthplace Ranch For more information call 918.341.0719 • w i l l r o g e r s . c o m 9501 East 380 Road (2 miles east of Hwy. 169 on 380 Road)

B R I N G Y O U R L AW N C H A I R S !

Sponsored by Will Rogers Memorial Museums, Will Rogers Memorial Foundation, Cherokee Nation Businesses, and Will Rogers Downs.

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Hot air balloon enthusiasts will fly their balloons at the annual Gatesway Balloonfest on Sept. 20-22.

26 LATE SUMMERâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;2013 Surrey

Gatesway Balloonfest More than 30 hot air balloons execpted for annual event This September, the sky over Claremore will be again filled with hot air balloons and the Cherokee Casino Will Rogers Downs grounds will be loaded with families enjoying all the festivities of the Annual Gatesway Hot Air Balloon Festival.

The family event taking place Sept. 20-22, and feature more than 30 hot air balloons from across Oklahoma, and the country, activities for all ages, live entertainment, arts & crafts vendors and of course, plenty of great food.

This installment marks the sixth consecutive year for Will Rogers Downs to host the festival.

The large grounds provide the space for numerous family activities, including pony and helicopter rides, children’s activity area and arts and crafts vendors and exhibits. Festival grounds open at 4 p.m. on Sept. 20 and at 7 a.m. on Sept. 21.

The festival kicks-off Friday at 5 p.m. with the singing of the National Anthem, followed at 5:30 p.m. with balloon flights and tethered balloon rides.

The balloon glow is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. and tentative entertainment will be provided by Chad Lee on the Dog Iron Stage at 9 p.m.

Saturday is loaded with a day full of activities, including pancake breakfast, competition flights, a cupcake decorating contest, lawn mower races, tethered balloon rides and a second balloon glow. Saturday’s festivities will conclude with Paul Bogart performing a free concert from the Dog Iron Stage.

The festival unofficially concludes Sunday morning with a 7 a.m. balloon flight.

All proceeds from this event will be used to continue the programs and services offered to individuals with intellectual disabilities served

by Gatesway.

The Gatesway Foundation this year is celebrating 50 years of providing opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities throughout eastern and central Oklahoma. Gatesway offers an array of residential and vocational programs that promote independence and provide opportunities for people with disabilities to improve their quality of life For a full schedule of events and to learn more about The Gatesway Foundation please visit www.gatesway.org.

Cherokee Casino Will Rogers Downs is located three miles east of Claremore on Highway 20.

For more information, visit www.cherokeestarrewards.com or call (918) 283-8800.

Read Choi ers win ce

ner

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Doyle Lawson

Annual Bluegrass & Chili Festival The 34th Annual Bluegrass & Chili Festival is set for Sept. 5-7 on the grounds of the Claremore Expo Center.

The weekend festivities will include three stages of free “pepper hot” concerts by national and regional artists. Headliners scheduled to appear include a host of award winners.

The Thursday night line-up includes the Quebe Sisters Band. These Texas sisters present music that encompasses western swing, jazz, country and bluegrass.

The award-winning IBMA and celebrating their 30th anniversary The Lonesome River Band with Sammy Shelor winner of the Steve Martin Award for Excellence, rounding out Thursday evening performances Grammy nominees Sanctus Real a fan favorite contemporary Christian band.

Friday’s line-up includes IIIrd Tyme Out, Brooke & 30 LATE SUMMER 2013 Surrey

Darin Aldridge Band, Lonesome Road and emerging artists Dave Adkins & Republik Steele.

Saturday headliners include Rhonda Vincent & The Rage, festival favorites Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver and the king of newgrass The Sam Bush Band .

Top regional acts will entertain on three stages performing a variety of music including country, gospel, bluegrass and classic rock.

In addition to the free concerts, other musical entertainment highlights include: The “Junior Showcase” this showcase is designed to give talented youth 21 and under stage exposure and experience in a non-competitive showcase. An acoustic guitar will be awarded by a drawing of all the participants.

“The Best Country In The City Vocalist Competition invites vocalists of any age to participate, applications are now available. Winner will be awarded a cash prize. Dancers will “kick up their heels” dur-

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Quebe Sisters Band, above.

Lonesome Road Bluegras, above right.

Sam Bush, right.

32 LATE SUMMER 2013 Surrey

ing the festivities.

The Bluegrass & Chili Festival will sizzle with many other family activities. The Festival Market inside the Expo will include a wide variety of crafts, services and business showcase. Little buckaroos can find free activities at the children’s Kiddie Korral.

The Open Car Show will give festival attendees an opportunity to see classic and current beauties and you don’t want to miss the Antique Tractor Pull. All these family activities will add spice to the weekend of family fun!

Don’t miss the Mid-America Regional Chili Cook-off and Salsa Competition.

The International Chili Society Division winning cook will represent the Festival in the World Cook-off that boasts a $25,000 first prize.

A non-profit division is open to nonprofits, schools, churches etc. winner will receive $1,000 first prize. Open and corporate division teams will compete for awards and of course bragging rights! All teams will vie for booth decorations, showmanship and ham-manship honors. Festival attendees can also sample the award winning chili with an official taster kit!

Festival opens officially at 4 p.m.

RM IIIrd Tyme Out

Brooke and Dan Aldridge Band Rhonda Vincent

Dave Adkins and Republik Steele

with the Festival Market, concerts begin at 6 p.m. on Thursday & Friday. Saturday festivities from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

For additional Festival information and applications, contact Bluegrass & Chili Festival, Claremore Chamber at 419 W. Will Rogers, Claremore, OK 74017. Hotel information, festival updates and a complete list of festival partners at www.claremore.org or 918-341-2818. No admission fee. On-site parking $10 per car load.

Festival major sponsors: City of Claremore, RCB Bank, Pelco Structural, Will Rogers DownsCherokee Casino, Big Country 99.5, KOTV The News on 6, BancFirst and Claremore Chamber of Commerce.

Santus Real

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