DUNCAN – Prepping a fair barn rodeo arena into a white tableclothed dinner venue for up to 800 visitors will be the challenge for the Stephens County Republican Party’s group of volunteers this week as Stephens County GOP hosts its 20th annual Fish Fry.
“We will get it done,” said Party Chairman Leon Farris. “After all, this will be our 20th year to host this event.”
“It is a fundraiser for the county party,” Steve Fair said. Fair is expected to remind the audience as he auctions off donated items with his humorous method of extracting money from the crowd.
The event began 20 years ago with as few as 200 in attendance originally in the fairgrounds community building, but soon had to be moved to something larger to accommodate the event. It is now held in the north part of the indoor rodeo arena.
“Republicans come from all over the state,” said Farris. “Some come for the fried fish dinner that has been perfected by DannyThomas, one of our party activist. Some come for the keynote speaker. Some come to meet elected officials and those seeking office. Some come from other counties to observe a well-functioning county party fundraising event, hoping to duplicate it in their county.”
This year’s keynote speaker will be 4th District Congressman Tom Cole, who was recently selected to chair the powerful Appropriations Committee in Congress.
Other events on the agenda will include the Dr. Gerald Beasley Award that is presented to a party volunteer who has shown dedication through electing conservatives and furthering party goals.
Four serving lines allows the crowd to fill plates quickly and usually moves up to 800 people through the lines in less than 30 minutes. Most all activities are handled by party volunteers.
The event is patriotic in all ways, from the presentation of the colors, singing of the national anthem and prayer. A clown doing balloon animals entertains the youngest of the crowd. Lots of election material is distributed as candidates try to gladhand as many as possible seeking votes in the upcoming elections.
Farris said a few tables are still available that include seats for 10 for $350 and also includes two tickets for a meet and greet reception with Congressman Cole at 5 p.m. Individual tickets at the door are $40 this year. Anyone wishing advance tickets should contact Leon Farris at (580) 656-7951.
Serving begins at 6 p.m. Stephens County Fairgrounds are located at 2002 S. 13th St., Duncan, OK 73533.