Published: June 30, 2008 10:16 am      

Homecoming honors

Jefferson county residents share lunch with outgoing state representative

It was much like a family reunion, and Kathy and Ray Gene McCarter were soaking up the affectionate atmosphere in the fair building at Jefferson County Fairgrounds on June 19.

“Kathy and I love it here. The people of Waurika and Jefferson County are the best, best, best people in the world,” Ray McCarter told a crowd of about 150, who stopped in to share a hamburger and chips with the outgoing state representative from District 51.

Unlike some politicians who show up in rural communities like Waurika around the time of an election, the McCarters have been more than just occasional visitors. Both have roots in the community and the county, which still remain deeply entwined with the area.

“Kathy’s from Addington and she was born in the hospital (in Waurika),” Ray McCarter said, during an appreciation luncheon that was organized by the Waurika Volunteer Fire Department. “I’m from Comanche, but I spent five years as a teacher and administrator at Waurika, and our daughter (Tammi) is teaching here now, and Kathy and I can’t thank you enough for the way you’ve taken her in.”

The crowd at the picnic-style luncheon was indicative of ability McCarter has displayed for being able to comfortably cross all social and political boundaries. Local city and county officials from Terral to Addington were present, and McCarter was at ease mingling with business folks, farmers and ranchers.

There were Republicans in the crowd, including Sen. Don Barrington, and a special guest arrived early in the festivity. Although she had been in San Diego, Calif. on Wednesday, Lt. Gov. Jari Askins, a Duncan native, appeared and shared a hug and a burger with her longtime friend and fellow Democrat.

McCarter will officially complete a 12th straight year in the House of Representatives in November.

Because of Oklahoma’s term limit law, the third term will be his last, and the Marlow resident isn’t planning to take his political career to a different level.

“I’ve enjoyed every second of representing District 51, especially Waurika and Jefferson County. I hope in the future, you elect someone to take my place who’ll work hard for you — and I think that person should be (2008 District 51 Democratic candidate) Tommy Cosgrove,” he said.

“But I’ve had enough politics,” McCarter added. “I’m old enough to draw Social Security and a teacher’s retirement and a pension for 12 years of service to the state.

“Now, all I want to do is just hang around and squeeze my little great-granddaughter!”

It should be noted, however, when the retiring representative made that statement, Kathy McCarter could be seen rolling her eyes.

As she and the well-wishers know, Ray McCarter’s never been known to sit still long.