Spencer City Star
National Preparedness month
The availability of 24-hour news broadcast provides us with a first-hand look at the devastation of natural disasters, the aftermath of terrorist attacks, and the lives that are forever changed by circumstances beyond anyones control. So its really no secret that bad things can, and will, eventually happen. The question is
are you and your family prepared? When preparing for a possible emergency, it is best to think first about survival: Fresh water, food, clean air and warmth. Recommended items to include in a basic Emergency Supply Kit should include: Water one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation * Food for at least a three day supply of non-perishable food * Clean Air Dust Masks to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place * Warmth Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person, consider additional bedding for cold weather months. Complete change of clothes including a long sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes consider additional clothing for cold months. Other items to be considered are: Battery-powered or hand crank radio with a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both * Flashlight and extra batteries * First Aid Kit * Whistle to signal for help* Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation * Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities * Can opener for food (if kit contains canned food) * Local maps * Additional items to consider adding to kit include: Prescription medications and glasses * Infant formula and diapers * Pet food and extra water for your pet * Documents including copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records (place in waterproof container) * Cash and travelers checks, change * Emergency reference material including first aid book * Chlorine bleach and medicine dropper for use as a disinfectant when diluted 9 parts water to 1 part bleach. In an emergency situation when no clean water is available by other means, bleach can be used to treat water by using 16 drops of regular liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented, color safe or bleaches with added cleaners * Fire extinguisher * Matches * Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items * Mess kits, paper cups, plates and plastic utensils, paper towels * Paper and pencil * Books, games, puzzles or other activities are also a good idea for children. This information was provided by the Dept. of Homeland Security. For more information visit their website www.ready.gov.
Spencer receives arts grant for Unity day festival
The City of Spencer was awarded its second grant from the Oklahoma Arts Council to stage its annual music and arts festivalUnity Day. The grant awarded totaled $1,475.00 and will be used to offset the costs of the event. To further contribute to this event, please contact Karen Scovill at 771-3226. Booth space and sponsorships are still available. MARK YOUR CALENDAR for September 9th, Downtown Spencer, from 6 p.m. to ??? Events include: Live Music by Blackhawk Blues Band and Tinker Flyin High Band. Food from Hardeman Mobile Kitchen and Smith & Smith. Face Painting by Cindy Van Kley, Blowing Money Machine by Advantage Bank with drawings hourly, Moonwalk by Adventure Recreations, storytelling by Al Bostic . Thank you to our newest sponsors/participants Isaiah Antwine of Antwines Plumbing, Precious Pets Cemetery, Carters Garage, Mike Anderson of Anderson Electric, Happy Tracks Square Dance Club featuring Spencer residents Billy & Sybil Newcombs, Smith & Smith, R&R Lawnmower Parts, arts & crafts by Elroy R. Alford, Sr. and more. Also, a big Thank You to everyone who has supported this event, we appreciate you.
Neighborhood association guidelines
It is the desire of Spencer to support the development of neighborhood associations within the City. Residents are encouraged to organize association to identify, prioritize and address the needs of the City. If you are interested in establishing a neighborhood association, please register your organization with the City of Spencer. Provide your name, the area you represent, who your leaders are, and when you meet. Contact City hall at 771-3226 for more information.
Employment Corner
Our mission is to employ the most highly qualified individuals to enhance and provide a diverse work environment. We currently have the following positions available : Permit Collections Clerk and Police Officer. Employment Applications are available at City Hall 8200 NE 36th Street between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Please attach your resume to the application. You may also apply by forwarding your resume electronically to spencercitymanager@sbcglobal.net. For more information on the abovementioned positions please visit our website at http://www.cityofspencer.us/job.html.
Eagle ridge instituteyouth build
Eagle Ridge Institute provides a Youth Build program which provides the training necessary to achieve a GED and vocational training to young people, ages 17 to 24. While in the education component youth will receive a stipend, and while in vocational training they will receive a stipend. After the education and job training is completed they are placed into a job commensurate with their ability. There is no cost to participate, and a variant of trades for which to train. The only ca eat is that once a young person enrolls into this program, he/she must commit to remain drug free. This is an excellent program for young folks who are simply wanting to make a better life for themselves. Youth Build is currently accepting applications for enrollment. For more information call Ms. Marie Burns, Program Director at 681-8488.
Spencer acknowledges youth interns
The City of Spencer wishes to acknowledge the interns for their service in the 2006 Summer Intern Program. Thank you Temoni Agee for serving at the Spencer Police Department. Thank you Britanee West and Shanika Washington for serving at Spencer City Hall. Your outstanding service and dedication is appreciated. A small acknowledgment ceremony was held on August 14th to present the interns with a Certificate of Appreciation and celebrate with cake and punch. Internships are available during the Fall Session beginning October 1st during the hours of 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m., or as needed. If you are interested in becoming a youth intern, please contact Ms. Bell at 771-3226.
Business Spotlight
R&R equipment repair
Mr. and Mrs. Rains, who have owned businesses in Spencer since 1978, offer a wide-range of services at their downtown Spencer shop. R & R Equipment Repair offers lawn mower service, chainsaw repair, and a sharpening service just to name a few. They sell blades, belts, tires, vacuums, house wares, novelty gifts, furniture and other items of interest. They also offer World-Famous Watkins Products which are popular amongst the senior population. Business hours are MondayFriday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and closed on Sunday. If you are in the downtown Spencer area, stop by and see what R & R has to offer.
Reminder: City Hall would like to remind citizens to keep tall weeds, grass and other vegetation trimmed. Height must not exceed 12 inches.
Utility rates to increase in October
The passage of Resolution No. 58-07-06 will increase Spencers water rated 29.67% beginning in October 2006. Residential and Commercial Water Services shall be as follows: Base rate of $8.43 for the first 1,000 gallons of usage; $3.50 per 1,000 gallons for the next 9,000; and $3.18 per 1,000 gallons for the next 20,000 gallons; and $3.31 per 1,000 gallons for all over 30,000 gallons. The rates for Wastewater Services will be: $6.61 base rate for a residence on water and sewer service; and $7.43 base rate for residences on sewer service only. Residential Garbage Rates will be: Base rate for one (1) Cart is $11.02; base rate for two (2) carts is $22.04; base rate for three (3) carts is $33.07 and; base rate for residents having Extra Pick-Up is $38.90. Commercial Garbage will have a base rate of $14.91 for one (1) cart; 29.82 for two (2) carts. Garbage Dumpster Rates will be as follows: 2CY $46.30, $59.00, $116.70, $153.01, $188.02, $226.93 3CY $53.81, $83.64, $129.67, $168.57, $2097.47, $246.37 4CY $61.59, $101.79, $142.64, $181.54, $226.92, $272.31 6CY $78.45, $129.02, $168.57, $213.96, $252.86, $298.24 8CY $96.60, $154.96, $194.51, $233.41, $291.76, $337.14 10CY $113.46, $178.30, $213.96, $259.34, $343.63, $389.01. Collections from the rate increase will make possible the infrastructure improvement needed to make Spencer more attractive to businesses. The stated projects are: Monitoring and back-up generator for emergency operation of water system $55,220, install new looping 12 water main Bentree County Way South to NE 23rd and West on NE 23rd tie onto 10 main at Spencer Rd. and continue 12water main to Midwest Blvd. $375,000, install new 12 water main at NE 23rd and Midwest Blvd. to West Spencer boundary on NE 23rd St. $116,000, Install 12 water main NE at 33rd St. well to Midwest Blvd. and south to NE 23rd St. $110,000, Install new 12 water main NE 26th & 28th between Cramer & Midwest Blvd. $250,000, Install new 8 wastewater main running south from NE 25th & Douglas to 23rd St from NE 23rd St to the 23rd lift station and continue West to Midwest Blvd. $350,000, Install new 12 water main Outpost Rd. and NE 23rd & Post Rd. $70,000, Install new 12 water main at Post Rd. & NE 23rd to Liberty and NE 23rd St. $182,000, Install new water well and storage tower at 3207 Hicks $800,000 for a grand total of $2,308,200.00.
Planning commission points news on planning commission activities
Lot split for 9202 NE 36th, Spencer, filed by owner Mel Krumme. Rezone request for 8820 NE 25th Street, R1 to R2 to allow property to be used as a home daycare. Interested residents should log concerns at the public hearing on September 7th at the Regular Planning Commission Meeting, or in writing prior to this date.
Dunjee all school reunion committee
The City of Spencer presented a Proclamation to the Dunjee All School Reunion Committee in celebration of their four-day reunion, August 3rd thru 6th. Whereas, the Dunjee All School Committee has been instrumental in honoring the memory of Dunjee High School and those who have served at Dunjee to press and maintain the importance or education, perseverance, community, and scholarship in the City of Spencer and Surrounding areas of Oklahoma County. Thank you once again Dunjee Committee, your commitment to upholding the memory of Dunjee High is appreciated.
Senior citizens
Senior Citizens Board During the month of August Senior Citizen Board Members: Earl Syth, Erlene Jones and Hazel Sherman appointed Mr. Rufus Biggs as a new board member. Welcome aboard.
Senior Center Activities and Meals
The Spencer Senior Citizens Center is a community facility that is dedicated to the enjoyment of the senior population of the City of Spencer. The Senior Center currently offers activities including: Hot Meals, Games, Health Checks, Good Conversation and Transportation. Hot meals are provided in a social setting, through the Senior Nutrition Program. For those who are unable to join at the center for a meal, homebound delivery is also available. Coffee and snacks are offered during the morning hours when games such as dominoes and bingo are played. FREE blood pressure/blood sugar checks are offered on the 2nd Tuesday of each month. In addition the Center offers a Ride Program to assist in transportation to and from the Center. On Tuesdays and Thursdays transportation is available to local shopping centers including Wal-Mart, Crest and the Dollar Store. The Nutrition Program is available to anyone 60+ years of age. No income criteria or Membership Fees required. An Older Americans Act Assessment Form is necessary to determine nutritional health. Donations of $1.50 are accepted and appreciated. For more information please contact the Senior Center at 771-5354 MondayFriday before 1 p.m.
For rent
Having a party, reunion, bridal or baby shower, reception or family gathering: Do you need an easily assessable building for your event? Contact Earlene Jones at 771-3201 to rent the Senior Citizens building. Alcohol beverages & smoking are prohibited.
Financial Peace UniversityFPU
Saint Lukes Baptist Church will host a Financial Peace workshop September 21st thru December 21st. The FPU program is designed to teach families to get out of debt, and stay out of debt. Topics include cash flow planning, dumping debt, saving, giving and much more. Kit amount is $95.00 and the deadline is September 5th. For more information visit Saint Lukes Baptist Church at 10001 50th St. in Spencer or call 769-6638.
Calendar
September 7th Planning Commission Meeting 7:00 p.m. at City Hall.
September 9th Unity Day 6:00 p.m. ???? In Downtown SpencerCome join us!
September 18th Parks Advisory Board 7:00 p.m. at City Hall.
September 21st City Council Meeting 7:00 p.m. at City Hall.
If you have knowledge of special events going on in Spencer, OK, please contact Karen Scovill at 771-3226 with the details by 20th of each month for inclusion in our monthly newsletter.
