TB Ferguson, as the sixth governor of the Territory of Oklahoma, was known for good government policies during his four-year term. He was known for his collaborative work with the Territorial legislature, for his support of education, for a balanced budget, for laws and proclamations that enhanced and protected Oklahoma’s agriculture, promotion of development of rail lines, development of Oklahoma’s law enforcement system and for promoting statehood for Oklahoma.
Elva Ferguson, as first lady, facilitated cooperation through many public events in Guthrie. After the passing of her husband, she continued public service as a member of the executive committee for Oklahoma’s exhibit at the Philadelphia sesquicentennial and later as vice-chairman of the Republican party in Oklahoma.
In honor of their public service to Oklahoma, the Friends of the Ferguson Home are conducting a symposium for seniors in high school in Blaine County. Students and their sponsors from Watonga, Geary and Hydro-Eakley will hear presentations on statehood day, Nov. 16 at the Conference Center at the Lucky Star Casino in Watonga. Presentations are planned from elected school board officials, city council, county elected officials, the county judge, state Representative Mike Dobrinski and Senator Darcy Jech. Presentations by U.S. Representative Frank Lucas and U.S. Senator James Lankford are expected.
It is important for high school seniors to become acquainted with the function of these offices and those presently serving in elected office. Only since the 26th Amendment to the constitution was ratified in July 1971 could 18-year-olds vote. As a 1970 graduate from high school, I remember vividly registering for the Selective Service (draft) for Vietnam, but not being able to vote.
Voting is both a privilege and a responsibility to elect the best qualified personnel to represent all citizens. Further, students need to know what services are provided by elected officials and start preparing to serve in some of these important positions.
At the county level, the three county commissioners have responsibility as the county’s executive committee, the courthouse, county jail, emergency management and fairgrounds in addition to roads, bridges and other infrastructure in their represented areas. Also elected at the county level are the county assessor, county treasurer, county clerk, county sheriff and court clerk.
Students, as part of the TB and Elva Ferguson Good Government Symposium will hear from these elected officials in order to be better citizens, and to understand how their tax dollars are assessed, collected and utilized. They will know better what skills they need to develop to fill these positions in the future.
For these reasons, the Friends of the Ferguson Home are pleased to sponsor this symposium.