Dateline: April 22, 2004

Robinson flaps forward in polling

By Roger Estlack, Clarendon Enterprise

Tessie Robinson has fluttered into a slim lead with just days left to vote for Donley County’s fourth Turkey King.

Robinson was in fifth place last week, but, with a campaign total of $22.83, she is now barely ahead of former front strutter Reneé “Broncho” Betts, who has $22.05.

Valorie Ashcraft is not far behind in third position with $21.63, and last week’s number two bird, Jewell Houston, is now in the number four position with $13.39. Martha Smith is fifth with $11.69, and the remaining candidates have thus far failed to break the ten-dollar mark.

Meanwhile, it appears one man has been volunteered to challenge the all-girl election. Reports are that money jars with Jim Riley’s name on them have showed up, and some say Riley may be planning a filibuster.

Voting continues through 4 p.m. this Saturday, and the top five candidates will be dressed up and paraded around during the Turkey Strut Festival that same day. The winner will be the bird with the most money.

Ballots may be cast in the jars of the respective candidates at Sayes, Duckwall’s, and the Texas Steakout. Proceeds go to promote tourism in Donley County.

Anyone wanting an arts and crafts fair during the festival should call Terry Askew at 874-3844.