SWC Old Timer's Day Honors John And Bess Poynor

COURTESY PHOTO One youngster holds on tight to a lamb during the mutton busting portion of the 2015 Old Timer’s Day Rodeo.
COURTESY PHOTO One youngster holds on tight to a lamb during the mutton busting portion of the 2015 Old Timer’s Day Rodeo.

Megan Davis

McDonald County [email protected]

The Southwest City Commercial Club began Old Timer's Day in May 1978. The event began following the retirement of John Poynor, longtime area resident who had owned and operated the Phillips 66 Service Station from 1927 to 1977.

That year, the Commercial Club voted to hold a parade in honor of John and Bess Poynor for their 50 years of service to Southwest City. The Poynors became the first Mr. & Mrs. Old Timers.

Because of the success of that day, the Commercial Club has held a parade each year to honor members of the community. Those honored have included business owners, area farmers, community leaders and volunteers. Each has represented someone special who contributed to the Southwest City area over the years.

This year, the celebration will honor Tom and Sue Cone.

The Cones have lived in and worked in the Southwest City area since 1977. Currently, they raise cross-bred cattle and quarter horses.

Tom and Sue share three sons: Randy, Darren and David Ray.

"As the years pass, we have been blessed with daughters-in-law, many grandchildren, and great friends and family," the couple said. "Praises to the Lord for guidance in the good times and the not-so-good days. Thank you Southwest City for honoring us as Old Timer's 2016."

This year's festivities kick off bright and early with the annual Pancake Breakfast at 7 a.m. in the Full Gospel Church gymnasium.

Main Street will host a variety of artisans and crafters peddling their wares. Vendors open for business at 9 a.m. and live music begins at 10 a.m.

Southwest City School will hold a Greenhouse Sale all day, from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. If you're looking to buy beautiful foliage nurtured by the next generation of green thumbs, here's your chance.

Cash drawings will be held throughout the day - at noon, 2 p.m., and 3 p.m.

The parade, which starts at 12:30 p.m., is sure to be a good time with familiar faces.

Following the parade is the notorious Outhouse Race. This is a timed event. The team that can maneuver their commode through the course the fastest earns bragging rights for a whole year.

Dylan Hall and Pure Tradition begin performing from 1 to 3 p.m. at the bandstand.

The group has been together since 2012 and plays a wide variety of traditional music. Everything from bluegrass and country to Southern gospel. The group doesn't use a set list and often takes requests from the audience. They are a very light-hearted, fun group that is sure to please.

At 2:15 p.m., hold your noses and avert your eyes as the Ugly Feet Contest kicks off. Embrace those calluses, hairs, and hangnails and earn those toes a title. Don't be embarrassed though, all competitors are judged from behind a screen to remain anonymous.

The annual Old Timer's Day Rodeo will be held on Friday and Saturday. Mutton bustin' for the youngsters begins at 7:30 p.m. and other events will start at 8 p.m. The arena is located at 36600 Highway 20 East, Jay, Okla.

General News on 04/28/2016