Tuesday, March 27, 2012
The Slithering
For five years now, TATUR has put on Tulsa's only Six Hour (and Three Hour) timed trail run. This event is not a set distance, although it is ran on a set course--the Snake Trail on Turkey Mountain. How long is the race? How far can you run in Six or Three hours? Finish in the top three, and you get to have this grumpy serpent setting on your trophy shelf!
This is my favorite race, from a race director's standpoint for quite a few reasons.
1. It is easy to set up. The course is 2.1 miles of trail that is ran out, and then back. Not a lot of marking involved, although great pains are taken to make sure no one goes off track. There is also a half mile finishing lap that you can tack on extra mileage when time is too short for another 4.2 mile circuit. Other than the start/finish, there is just one aid station.
2. The race is over when it's over. Those slower runners (like ME) know exactly what their finish time will be, and after six hours, everyone is done.
3. Everyone seems to love the race. Since there are so few races of this variety, a PR is almost a sure bet.
4. This race has the most awesome trophies. Scary ones! And the medals have been great the past two years too, thanks to the artistic abilities of Brian Hoover.
5. I always have the most amazing volunteers!!!
My friend Randy Ellis and his lovely bride Marcy came early and stayed late, working the start/finish aid station, keeping the hot stuff hot, the cold stuff cold, and the runners watered and fed. Thank you Randy and Marcy. I never have any worries when I have you at the helm.
Venus (on the left) worked non-stop for all of the three hour event, signing people up, passing out packets, passing out water and Gatorade, and cheer leading. She is fascinated with trail running, and I can't wait to get her on the trails. Susan also helped out with packet pickup, and then went to the turnaround aid station for the day. Thanks Susan!!
MVP Mitch Drummond timed the race again. This is one stressful job, counting laps as each runner zipped in and out. Mitch has nerves of steel, and brains of Einstein. It's as if he remembers every runner who passes through. He would no doubt be great at counting cards at the casinos in Vegas. Amazing job, Mitch. Kirk (on the left) was Mitch's right hand man for much of the day before he assumed the search and rescue mode later in the day.
Ken Saveth helped out some before the race, and then got a nice three hour run in. Thanks, my friend. (My bad--I don't remember the name of the volunteer on the left. Sorry.)
Random pic of an old buddy. Tom Robinson and his nephew get focused before the start of their three hour run.
A trio of runners get their game face on. Stormy is studying me to try to determine if I'm taking pictures or a video. Christy is rocking the pink arm panties. Pat is rocking pink panties too.
I found my place on a mound of dirt. King of the mountain, with a megaphone to boot! I LOVE THIS JOB!!!! I gave a quick rundown on how the race works, and some trail conditions.
The dust was not a problem on this day. Five inches of rain earlier in the week had left quite a few muddy patches. No one finished with clean shoes. Or socks.
230 runners took off at 9:00 sharp. The first .2 was on slightly wider trailz, and then it was narrow single track for a half mile before widening out again.
Single file trailz--lap one had a bit of a traffic jam. I will probably have a staggered time next year, separating the six and three hour races by 15 minutes.
Meanwhile the aid station on the course was getting ready. The runners hit this stop at mile .95, and then again at mile 2.1 where they turn around and go back the way they came. Russell manned this stop, with a lot of help. Russell also worked with me all day Friday, toting stuff out to the race site, setting up aid stations, setting up the starting line, delivering barrels of water, marking the course, etc. He was also an MVP. Dana opted out of running, and worked all day serving water, food, and Gatorade, as well as fetching more food, water, and cheering runners on. The day(s) before the race, she was the one who went to Sam's and Wal-Mart to buy supplies for the aid stations. Could not do this race without her.
And here the runners come! Jeff and Amelia are on a mission, going for a marathon on sloppy trailz in six hours. They made it.
Kathy, often one to place in an ultra, ran the three hour this day. She ran with her RunnersWorld group before the race, and with her 12.6 miles at the Snake (and 2nd in her age group) finished with 20+ miles for the day.
Did I mention that it was muddy? A lot of the runners tried to step around the puddles, but actually the best plan of attack was to plow right through the mud. Usually, the footing was solid in the puddles, but sketchy around the edges.
Waiting at the Turnaround was Kurt and Brynna. Brynna ran a couple laps in the three hour, and then worked the rest of the day at the turnaround. Thank you Brynna!! Kurt, whose wife Shelley was scorching the course, had the best seat in the house, seeing her come by 24 times (since runners come by this aid station three times per loop.) Thanks, Kurt for helping out.
Another Dana pic--well just because!! We got OUR trail miles the next day. Thanks, Babe!
After 180 minutes of running and seeing this arch for the 2nd, 3rd, or 4th time, the race was over for the Three Hour runners. All runners who completed at least one 4.2 mile loop received their finishers medal, and the awarding of the Snake Trophies commenced.
Elaine Palmquist ran 17,8 miles, and took the 1st place trophy.
Lisa Pivec, a Pumpkin Holler Hunnerd finisher, took 2nd in the 3-Hour Snake Run, with 17.3 miles.
Jeanette Luevanos took 3rd with 17.1 miles.
Speedy Tom Brennan, a two-time Arkansas Traveller winner, had an easy time this day, running 22.5 miles for 1st place.
Nick Seymour was one finisher lap behind Tom, and took home the 2nd place trophy.
Christian Loeshel was the lone trophy nabber from Arkansas this year. I "gripe" about the Arkansans mopping up at this race, but actually I like it that they do so well here. I heard that they don't take to mud-swimming though. We missed you guys this year!!
Now, on to the Six Hour division, where course records fell.
Shelley Egli hit it hard and never let up, besting the women's course record by 1.6 miles. Shelley ran 35.6 miles for the win.
Lori Enlow ran steady for much of the race, falling back just a little near the end. Lori (the winner of the Pumpkin Holler Hunnerd) also passed the previous course record (which was 34 miles) running 34.1 miles, good enough for 2nd place.
Amber Lane moved up to the Six Hour just before race time, and won the 3rd place trophy.
Troy Albright smashed the previous course record of 42 miles, running 43.5 miles and taking home the 1st place snake. I thought 42 miles would never be broken, but it Troy runs this race again and we have better trail conditions, he could easily surpass his own record.
Mark Denherder narrowly took second, running 38.8 miles and finishing a half mile ahead of his closest competitor earning 2nd place.
Dann Fisher ran 38.3 miles and won the 3rd place trophy.
This is my favorite race, from a race director's standpoint for quite a few reasons.1. It is easy to set up. The course is 2.1 miles of trail that is ran out, and then back. Not a lot of marking involved, although great pains are taken to make sure no one goes off track. There is also a half mile finishing lap that you can tack on extra mileage when time is too short for another 4.2 mile circuit. Other than the start/finish, there is just one aid station.
2. The race is over when it's over. Those slower runners (like ME) know exactly what their finish time will be, and after six hours, everyone is done.
3. Everyone seems to love the race. Since there are so few races of this variety, a PR is almost a sure bet.
4. This race has the most awesome trophies. Scary ones! And the medals have been great the past two years too, thanks to the artistic abilities of Brian Hoover.
5. I always have the most amazing volunteers!!!
My friend Randy Ellis and his lovely bride Marcy came early and stayed late, working the start/finish aid station, keeping the hot stuff hot, the cold stuff cold, and the runners watered and fed. Thank you Randy and Marcy. I never have any worries when I have you at the helm.
Venus (on the left) worked non-stop for all of the three hour event, signing people up, passing out packets, passing out water and Gatorade, and cheer leading. She is fascinated with trail running, and I can't wait to get her on the trails. Susan also helped out with packet pickup, and then went to the turnaround aid station for the day. Thanks Susan!!
MVP Mitch Drummond timed the race again. This is one stressful job, counting laps as each runner zipped in and out. Mitch has nerves of steel, and brains of Einstein. It's as if he remembers every runner who passes through. He would no doubt be great at counting cards at the casinos in Vegas. Amazing job, Mitch. Kirk (on the left) was Mitch's right hand man for much of the day before he assumed the search and rescue mode later in the day.
Ken Saveth helped out some before the race, and then got a nice three hour run in. Thanks, my friend. (My bad--I don't remember the name of the volunteer on the left. Sorry.)
Random pic of an old buddy. Tom Robinson and his nephew get focused before the start of their three hour run.
A trio of runners get their game face on. Stormy is studying me to try to determine if I'm taking pictures or a video. Christy is rocking the pink arm panties. Pat is rocking pink panties too.
I found my place on a mound of dirt. King of the mountain, with a megaphone to boot! I LOVE THIS JOB!!!! I gave a quick rundown on how the race works, and some trail conditions.
The dust was not a problem on this day. Five inches of rain earlier in the week had left quite a few muddy patches. No one finished with clean shoes. Or socks.
230 runners took off at 9:00 sharp. The first .2 was on slightly wider trailz, and then it was narrow single track for a half mile before widening out again.
Single file trailz--lap one had a bit of a traffic jam. I will probably have a staggered time next year, separating the six and three hour races by 15 minutes.
Meanwhile the aid station on the course was getting ready. The runners hit this stop at mile .95, and then again at mile 2.1 where they turn around and go back the way they came. Russell manned this stop, with a lot of help. Russell also worked with me all day Friday, toting stuff out to the race site, setting up aid stations, setting up the starting line, delivering barrels of water, marking the course, etc. He was also an MVP. Dana opted out of running, and worked all day serving water, food, and Gatorade, as well as fetching more food, water, and cheering runners on. The day(s) before the race, she was the one who went to Sam's and Wal-Mart to buy supplies for the aid stations. Could not do this race without her.
And here the runners come! Jeff and Amelia are on a mission, going for a marathon on sloppy trailz in six hours. They made it.
Kathy, often one to place in an ultra, ran the three hour this day. She ran with her RunnersWorld group before the race, and with her 12.6 miles at the Snake (and 2nd in her age group) finished with 20+ miles for the day.
Did I mention that it was muddy? A lot of the runners tried to step around the puddles, but actually the best plan of attack was to plow right through the mud. Usually, the footing was solid in the puddles, but sketchy around the edges.
Waiting at the Turnaround was Kurt and Brynna. Brynna ran a couple laps in the three hour, and then worked the rest of the day at the turnaround. Thank you Brynna!! Kurt, whose wife Shelley was scorching the course, had the best seat in the house, seeing her come by 24 times (since runners come by this aid station three times per loop.) Thanks, Kurt for helping out.
Another Dana pic--well just because!! We got OUR trail miles the next day. Thanks, Babe!
After 180 minutes of running and seeing this arch for the 2nd, 3rd, or 4th time, the race was over for the Three Hour runners. All runners who completed at least one 4.2 mile loop received their finishers medal, and the awarding of the Snake Trophies commenced.
Elaine Palmquist ran 17,8 miles, and took the 1st place trophy.
Lisa Pivec, a Pumpkin Holler Hunnerd finisher, took 2nd in the 3-Hour Snake Run, with 17.3 miles.
Jeanette Luevanos took 3rd with 17.1 miles.
Speedy Tom Brennan, a two-time Arkansas Traveller winner, had an easy time this day, running 22.5 miles for 1st place.
Nick Seymour was one finisher lap behind Tom, and took home the 2nd place trophy.
Christian Loeshel was the lone trophy nabber from Arkansas this year. I "gripe" about the Arkansans mopping up at this race, but actually I like it that they do so well here. I heard that they don't take to mud-swimming though. We missed you guys this year!!Now, on to the Six Hour division, where course records fell.
Shelley Egli hit it hard and never let up, besting the women's course record by 1.6 miles. Shelley ran 35.6 miles for the win.
Lori Enlow ran steady for much of the race, falling back just a little near the end. Lori (the winner of the Pumpkin Holler Hunnerd) also passed the previous course record (which was 34 miles) running 34.1 miles, good enough for 2nd place.
Amber Lane moved up to the Six Hour just before race time, and won the 3rd place trophy.
Troy Albright smashed the previous course record of 42 miles, running 43.5 miles and taking home the 1st place snake. I thought 42 miles would never be broken, but it Troy runs this race again and we have better trail conditions, he could easily surpass his own record.
Mark Denherder narrowly took second, running 38.8 miles and finishing a half mile ahead of his closest competitor earning 2nd place.
Dann Fisher ran 38.3 miles and won the 3rd place trophy.Congratulations to all who came out and battled the muddy sections to finish a good run. You are way ahead of those who stayed home and watched infomercials.
A few more words of thanks....
Cassy Russell worked the start/finish, wrangling runners, serving food, and she worked like an elf picking things up after the race. Thank you so much, Cassy! Cheryl finished 4th women in the Six Hour, just a couple miles away from a snake trophy.
Troy and Kathy Moore, along with Rachel Runfola helped Friday marking the course, and also in pulling ribbons and caution tape after the race.Arnold Begay showed up near the end of the race to hang out, and help. Arnold is like that. I can always count on him for pulling ribbons.
Remember I said one of the reasons I love this race: I always have great volunteers? Thank each and every one of you. You make putting on races so easy.
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Combs Bridge
A year or so ago, when I was just starting to put the details together on the Pumpkin Holler Hunnerd, I spoke to a county commissioner over the area. He gave us his blessing, but said something about a new bridge being built just down-river from the old iron bridge near the start/finish at Eagle Bluff Resort.
This old bridge has charm--adds to the spirit of the Illinois, and our race. Everyone with a camera at the race has taken pictures of it. Crossing the bridge at the beginning is an experience like no other.
The plans are for the bridge (aka Combs Bridge) to be dismantled and removed. I, for one, think this would be a tragedy.
Ray Cook, a supporter of our Pumpkin Holler Hunnerd, forwarded me a thread of email discussing the possibility of saving the this icon as a pedestrian bridge. According to Ray,
I think this is an awesome idea, and will do whatever I can do to help make that happen.
Bridges like these are an endangered species. At least one bridge like this per week is torn down in the US.
I am thinking we'll need petitions signed, letters written, and possibly some financial help to save this bridge. A certain amount of upkeep would be necessary, but in my way of thinking, the upkeep surely would be less in cost than demolishing the structure. Wouldn't it?
Comment here, email me at trailzombie@yahoo.com, or Facebook me. I'll try to rally the troops. I can forward the email chain, which has a few addresses of people who are decision makers in this matter. From what I have read, no one is adamantly in favor of tearing the bridge down. Keeping it as a pedestrian bridge will require people who are willing to maintain the upkeep and basic bridge responsibilities.
Below is the thread of emails between Ron Cook, Melvena Heisch with the Oklahoma Historical Society, State Representative Will Fourkiller, and his assistant Juliet Abdeljawad. All parties involved are not opposed to the preserving of this bridge, but as of now, ODOT is scheduled to demolish the bridge in 2013.
From: Ron Cook
To: mheisch@okhistory.org
Sent: Thursday, March 08, 2012 2:30 PM
Subject: Saving Combs Bridge
Melvena,
This is Ron Cook. I live near Tahlequah , Oklahoma . Do you have any information at the Oklahoma Historic Society concerning Combs Bridge ?
If it helps in finding it; Combs Bridge was built in 1926, and is located on the Illinois River along highway 10, just South of Moodys, Oklahoma . It is a one lane bridge with a wooden deck that has recently been upgraded with a steel catwalk taken from the demolition of the old Terisita Bridge .
According to Representative, Will Fourkiller's Office, Combs Bridge was reported by Brian of the Oklahoma preservation Society, as per the following: The Combs Bridge is in severely bad shape. It is a threat to the well being of the public.
Is this true?
Thanks,
Ron
--- On Fri, 3/9/12, Melvena Heischwrote:
From: Melvena Heisch
Subject: Re: Saving Combs Bridge
To: "Ron Cook"
Date: Friday, March 9, 2012, 3:53 PM
Dear Mr. Cook:
Thank you for your message. the project to replace Combs Bridge was reviewed in our office in September 2008. The bridge does not qualify for the National Register of Historic Places. So, the review process under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act is complete. We understand that the new bridge will be constructed 2,300 feet away from the old bridge on a new alignment. However, it is not clear what is to happen to the old bridge. sometimes they are left in place and other times demolished for liability reasons.
I suggest that you contact Scott Sundermeyer with the Oklahoma Department of Transportation's Cultural Resources Program (405/325-7201) for more details. We have no other information here because the bridge is not National Register eligible. I do know that there are hundreds of structurally deficient bridges in our state, but I cannot confirm the statement in your message about the Combs Bridge being a threat to public safety. Very narrow bridges are considered dangerous and that is often why they are being replaced.
If you have any other questions, please let me know.
Melvena Heisch
Deputy SHPO
State Historic Preservation Office
Oklahoma Historical society
Oklahoma History Center
800 Nazih Zuhdi Drive
Oklahoma city, OK 73105-79174
405/522-4484
FAX 405/522-0816
mheisch@okhistory.org
----- Original Message -----
From: Ron Cook
To: Melvena Heisch
Cc: fourteenmilecreek@yahoo.com
Sent: Saturday, March 10, 2012 1:37 AM
Subject: Re: Saving Combs Bridge
Melvena,
There is a growing interest here locally, to save Combs Bridge as a pedestrian bridge, Due to the nature of it being a one lane bridge, traffic speeds are greatly reduced, making it a safe place to traverse the River crossing on foot, between the two campsites located on opposite sides of the River.
It is also a great shady place to find shelter from the hot sun while fishing, and to seek shelter during heavy down pours while canoeing or fishing. It serves as a scenic overlook above the deep blue waters, and is a great place to take a leisurely walk along the river for daily exercise. It has a peaceful atmosphere, and is also the starting line and the finish line for the annual Tatur, Pumpkin Holler Hunnerd Miler; a 100 mile foot race held each Autumn along the 31 miles of dirt roads that the bridge connects to. Not to mention, the shade it provides, creates shelter for a wide variety of fish seeking refuge from the burning Summer sun.
Any help in finding ways of preserving this legacy will be greatly appreciated.
Blessings,
Ron
--- On Mon, 3/12/12, Melvena Heischwrote:
From: Melvena Heisch
Subject: Re: Saving Combs Bridge
To: "Ron Cook"
Cc: fourteenmilecreek@yahoo.com
Date: Monday, March 12, 2012, 9:48 AM
Good morning Mr. Cook:
The most important first step for you is to determine who owns the bridge. Is it a county bridge? You can confirm this by contacting the Board of County Commissioners. It is important to let owner of the bridge know of community interest in keeping it in place and in a condition that accommodates the use you describe.
The Oklahoma Department of Transportation administers the transportation enhancements grants program that was created under federal law. For information about the program, you can contact Rick Johnson at 405/521-2454 (ODOT, Special Projects). The enhancements program has several categories of activities that are eligible for funding, such as pedestrian and bike routes, etc.
You might also contact the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department and ask about any federal funds they may have for trails and park improvements.
I hope this is helpful. If you have further questions, just let me know.
Melvena Heisch
Deputy SHPO
State Historic Preservation Office
Oklahoma Historical Society
Oklahoma History Center
800 Nazih Zuhdi Drive
Oklahoma City, OK 73105-7917
405/522-4484
FAX 405/522-0816
mheisch@okhistory.org
--- On Mon, 3/12/12, Melvena Heischwrote:
From: Melvena Heisch
Subject: Re: Saving Combs Bridge
To: "Ron Cook"
Date: Monday, March 12, 2012, 1:31 PM
The bridge is clearly old enough to qualify for the register, but there must be significance associated with it. It appears that it was found ineligible because it is a very common bridge type.
You might be interested to know that even when bridges are eligible for the National Register, they are often lost to demolition. Whether an old bridge can be retained in place depends on engineering factors related to the old bridge's location in relation to the new one, the condition of the old bridge, identification of a use for it, and an entity willing to maintain the bridge for that use.
You might find the following website of interest. It contains some case studies on bridge rehabilitation:
http://environment.transportation.org/cop/groups/historic_bridges/media/default.aspx
Melvena
From: Ron Cook [mailto:fourteenmilecreek@yahoo.com]
Sent: Tuesday, March 13, 2012 6:49 PM
To: Will Fourkiller
Cc: Juliet Abdeljawad
Subject: Fw: Re: Saving Combs Bridge
Honorable Representative Fourkiller,
This is Ron Cook, Below, is a copy of a letter I sent Melvena, at the Oklahoma Historical Society, concerning the slated demolition of Combs Bridge .
Regards,
Ron Cook
--- On Tue, 3/13/12, Ron Cookwrote:
From: Ron Cook
Subject: Re: Saving Combs Bridge
To: "Melvena Heisch"
Cc: fourteenmilecreek@yahoo.com
Date: Tuesday, March 13, 2012, 6:22 PM
Melvena,
The significance of Combs Bridge is not it's bridge type, but it's Bridge History.
Combs Bridge was built less than 20 years after Statehood, from Oklahoma 's meager, newly founded, State Treasury. It was during a time of great upheaval in the area that had recently been known as, ' Indian Territory ;' a place where outlaws could still out wit the Law.
Combs Bridge was the main crossing between Cherokee and Adair Counties , North of Tahlequah, Oklahoma . Pretty Boy Floyd's family lived in Sequoyah County , Combs Bridge ties these three counties together.
In 1931 Pretty Boy Floyd and George Birdwell robbed the Bank in Tahlequah , Oklahoma and took leave of the place down long, and lonely, dirt roads, via Combs Bridge . Famed Sheriff Grover Bishop gave chase.
(excerpt from Sheriff Bishop's obituary) It wasn't unusual to see the 16-year veteran officer toting a sub-machine gun in those days. He learned to use a machine gun while serving in France during World War I and utilized that experience while sheriff. "If I hadn't used one, I wouldn't have lasted as long as I did"
Bishop was awarded the "Gangbuster" radio program "Public Hero no. 1 Award for heroism and valor in 1933. The two men, Floyd and Birdwell were shot at, but escaped to resume their lives of crime that frequently had them running the back roads and using Combs Bridge to make their escapes into Adair and Sequoyah counties, where relatives and friends put them up and hid them out.
During this same crime spree, pretty Boy Floyd, and Birdwell, also robbed banks in Maud , Okla. Earlsboro, Konawa, Morris, and Shamrock. The gang hid out in the Pumpkin Hollow, proctor Region, using Combs bridge as the 'back door' the newly established State's Banking system. On December 12, 1931 the duo robbed two banks in one day, causing Bank's insurance rates to double nearly over night. Also causing the Governor of Oklahoma to put a substantial Reward on their heads "Dead or Alive".
(excerpt from Pretty Boy Floyd Bio):
In time he ended up hiding out back in the Cookson Hills near his hometown, where he was accepted and protected by the people. Floyd became known as 'The Robin Hood of the Cookson Hills'.
Proof of these high speed excursions across Combs Bridge lie in the fact that, In 1994 Joe Ford and his Son found Pretty Boy Floyd's get away car; a 1929 Ford Model A, just 8 miles upstream from Combs Bridge...
(Excerpt from KTUL Report May 21, 2007).
There are 52 bullet holes in the back of the car, got 'em one night in 1932 down near Ada, Oklahoma in a run in with federal agents.
"He just took off through the corn field, corn stalks were just a flyin' over the top of the car, the agents run out of the timber, they fired 110 rounds at the car. There's 52 of them that hit the body of the car," said Ford.
None hit “Pretty Boy,” he had armor plate on the back of the seats.
Joe Ford and his sons did all the restoration work on the ’29 themselves, except the upholstery, and it took five years to restore the Model A. They wanted to drive it on the street so they added some stuff like the engine, a 327 Chevy.
"That's what everybody says that looks at it, if the car had this in it there wouldn’t be any bullet hole in the car," said Ford.
Joe Ford takes the car to car shows all over Oklahoma . It has won lots of awards, and it isn’t hard to recognize, it’s the only one with 52 bullet holes in the back.
-------------------------------------
Now, to more recent Combs Bridge History: In 2003, the Walt Disney Movie, "Where the Red Fern Grows"; a full length motion picture, was filmed on location at Combs Bridge . In fact, Combs Bridge remains the most recognizable landmark in the entire film, about a boy and his two coon dogs, "Little Ann. and Ol' Dan".
I have one of these coon dogs, and live just three miles from the bridge. I watched the film crews on location for several days.
There are few, more, significant landmarks in this region, than Combs Bridge. The reason for this being, our wanton demolition of things that tie us to our past.
Regards,
Ron Cook
FW: Re: Saving Combs Bridge
1 recipients
Wednesday, March 21, 2012 12:55 PM
Ken,
This is Ron Cook. Below is a copy of the response I got from Representative Fourkiller's Office this morning. Do you know anyone interested in saving Combs Bridge as a pedestrian walkway to be used as the starting and finishing point of your pumpkin Holler Hunnerd Miler?
If so, they had better get on the band wagon pretty quick. The bridge is scheduled for demolition in 2013.
Regards,
Ron
--- On Wed, 3/21/12, Juliet Abdeljawadwrote:
From: Juliet Abdeljawad
Subject: FW: Re: Saving Combs Bridge
To: "'Ron Cook'"
Cc: "Will Fourkiller"
Date: Wednesday, March 21, 2012, 10:32 AM
Good Morning Ron,
Thank you for providing us with the letter that you have mailed out to the Oklahoma Historical Society. Our office has continued to follow up with this issue over the past week. I have been in recent communication with Richard ODOT’s special projects division. As an update they have discussed a potential source of funding with me this morning. It is known as the enhancement funds that the bridge would be eligible under. In order to qualify for this there is an application process. The application is found online at http://www.okladot.state.ok.us/projmgmt/enhance_prog/index.htm. There are sample applications which I would highly recommend as an idea to go off of. The funds are available once every two years so we are in luck as they should be announced this spring. Application cycle should open around April/May with preliminary applications due the 1st of October. Please continue to check this website for their announcements and feel free to contact us if you would like a letter of support or something of that nature. Again we thank you very much for taking an interest in protecting the combs bridge, should we be of any additional assistant do not hesitate to ask.
Thank You,
Juliet Abdeljawad
Legislative Assistant
Representative Fourkiller, HD 86
405-557-7394
Representative Lockhart, HD 3
405-557-7413
________________________________________
From: Ron Cook
Re: Re: Saving Combs Bridge
1 recipients
Wednesday, March 21, 2012 1:59 PM
Thanks Ken,
This will be a great help! Lots of noise is needed, beyond the 'local yocals'. When I first started writing letters, there was very little interest in Oklahoma City. (I am just one person). Maybe if enough people get together, we can make a difference. Currently, no formal group to save the bridge exists. Do you have resources to follow up on the below mentioned application process? This morning Representative Fourkiller's office wrote:
Good Morning Ron,
Thank you for providing us with the letter that you have mailed out to the Oklahoma Historical Society. Our office has continued to follow up with this issue over the past week. I have been in recent communication with Richard ODOT’s special projects division. As an update they have discussed a potential source of funding with me this morning. It is known as the enhancement funds that the bridge would be eligible under. In order to qualify for this there is an application process. The application is found online at http://www.okladot.state.ok.us/projmgmt/enhance_prog/index.htm. There are sample applications which I would highly recommend as an idea to go off of. The funds are available once every two years so we are in luck as they should be announced this spring. Application cycle should open around April/May with preliminary applications due the 1st of October. Please continue to check this website for their announcements and feel free to contact us if you would like a letter of support or something of that nature. Again we thank you very much for taking an interest in protecting the combs bridge, should we be of any additional assistant do not hesitate to ask.
Thank You,
Juliet Abdeljawad
Legislative Assistant
Representative Fourkiller, HD 86
405-557-7394
Representative Lockhart, HD 3
405-557-7413
--- On Wed, 3/21/12, Ken Childresswrote:
From: Ken Childress
Subject: Re: Re: Saving Combs Bridge
To: "Ron Cook"
Date: Wednesday, March 21, 2012, 1:41 PM
Ron,
I have blogged on this issue, and Facebooked about it as well. There is a considerable amount of interest--people willing to make calls, sign petitions, and write letters. When it comes to financial support, the interest wains somewhat. What do we need to be doing? I copy and publish your latest email correspondence. We can make a little noise I am sure.
Ken
CLICK HERE for the application mentioned above. You have to then click another link to open the app in Word or Adobe. I have briefly read it, and it's a bunch of legal smeegal mumbo jumbo--but we need to wade through it and go through the required process to get the ball rolling. With the history that the bridge has, with the retro-charm, and the fact that it makes the PH100 so darn cool, we need to rally.
This old bridge has charm--adds to the spirit of the Illinois, and our race. Everyone with a camera at the race has taken pictures of it. Crossing the bridge at the beginning is an experience like no other.
The plans are for the bridge (aka Combs Bridge) to be dismantled and removed. I, for one, think this would be a tragedy.
Ray Cook, a supporter of our Pumpkin Holler Hunnerd, forwarded me a thread of email discussing the possibility of saving the this icon as a pedestrian bridge. According to Ray,"I've been in contact with the Historic Bridge Foundation, but have not received a reply. The bridge is on the National Historic Inventory, but there needs to be a 501(c)3 in place if the bridge is to be saved."
I think this is an awesome idea, and will do whatever I can do to help make that happen.
Bridges like these are an endangered species. At least one bridge like this per week is torn down in the US.
I am thinking we'll need petitions signed, letters written, and possibly some financial help to save this bridge. A certain amount of upkeep would be necessary, but in my way of thinking, the upkeep surely would be less in cost than demolishing the structure. Wouldn't it?
Comment here, email me at trailzombie@yahoo.com, or Facebook me. I'll try to rally the troops. I can forward the email chain, which has a few addresses of people who are decision makers in this matter. From what I have read, no one is adamantly in favor of tearing the bridge down. Keeping it as a pedestrian bridge will require people who are willing to maintain the upkeep and basic bridge responsibilities.Below is the thread of emails between Ron Cook, Melvena Heisch with the Oklahoma Historical Society, State Representative Will Fourkiller, and his assistant Juliet Abdeljawad. All parties involved are not opposed to the preserving of this bridge, but as of now, ODOT is scheduled to demolish the bridge in 2013.
From: Ron Cook
To: mheisch@okhistory.org
Sent: Thursday, March 08, 2012 2:30 PM
Subject: Saving Combs Bridge
Melvena,
This is Ron Cook. I live near Tahlequah , Oklahoma . Do you have any information at the Oklahoma Historic Society concerning Combs Bridge ?
If it helps in finding it; Combs Bridge was built in 1926, and is located on the Illinois River along highway 10, just South of Moodys, Oklahoma . It is a one lane bridge with a wooden deck that has recently been upgraded with a steel catwalk taken from the demolition of the old Terisita Bridge .
According to Representative, Will Fourkiller's Office, Combs Bridge was reported by Brian of the Oklahoma preservation Society, as per the following: The Combs Bridge is in severely bad shape. It is a threat to the well being of the public.
Is this true?
Thanks,
Ron
--- On Fri, 3/9/12, Melvena Heisch
From: Melvena Heisch
Subject: Re: Saving Combs Bridge
To: "Ron Cook"
Date: Friday, March 9, 2012, 3:53 PM
Dear Mr. Cook:
Thank you for your message. the project to replace Combs Bridge was reviewed in our office in September 2008. The bridge does not qualify for the National Register of Historic Places. So, the review process under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act is complete. We understand that the new bridge will be constructed 2,300 feet away from the old bridge on a new alignment. However, it is not clear what is to happen to the old bridge. sometimes they are left in place and other times demolished for liability reasons.
I suggest that you contact Scott Sundermeyer with the Oklahoma Department of Transportation's Cultural Resources Program (405/325-7201) for more details. We have no other information here because the bridge is not National Register eligible. I do know that there are hundreds of structurally deficient bridges in our state, but I cannot confirm the statement in your message about the Combs Bridge being a threat to public safety. Very narrow bridges are considered dangerous and that is often why they are being replaced.
If you have any other questions, please let me know.
Melvena Heisch
Deputy SHPO
State Historic Preservation Office
Oklahoma Historical society
Oklahoma History Center
800 Nazih Zuhdi Drive
Oklahoma city, OK 73105-79174
405/522-4484
FAX 405/522-0816
mheisch@okhistory.org
----- Original Message -----
From: Ron Cook
To: Melvena Heisch
Cc: fourteenmilecreek@yahoo.com
Sent: Saturday, March 10, 2012 1:37 AM
Subject: Re: Saving Combs Bridge
Melvena,
There is a growing interest here locally, to save Combs Bridge as a pedestrian bridge, Due to the nature of it being a one lane bridge, traffic speeds are greatly reduced, making it a safe place to traverse the River crossing on foot, between the two campsites located on opposite sides of the River.
It is also a great shady place to find shelter from the hot sun while fishing, and to seek shelter during heavy down pours while canoeing or fishing. It serves as a scenic overlook above the deep blue waters, and is a great place to take a leisurely walk along the river for daily exercise. It has a peaceful atmosphere, and is also the starting line and the finish line for the annual Tatur, Pumpkin Holler Hunnerd Miler; a 100 mile foot race held each Autumn along the 31 miles of dirt roads that the bridge connects to. Not to mention, the shade it provides, creates shelter for a wide variety of fish seeking refuge from the burning Summer sun.
Any help in finding ways of preserving this legacy will be greatly appreciated.
Blessings,
Ron
--- On Mon, 3/12/12, Melvena Heisch
From: Melvena Heisch
Subject: Re: Saving Combs Bridge
To: "Ron Cook"
Cc: fourteenmilecreek@yahoo.com
Date: Monday, March 12, 2012, 9:48 AM
Good morning Mr. Cook:
The most important first step for you is to determine who owns the bridge. Is it a county bridge? You can confirm this by contacting the Board of County Commissioners. It is important to let owner of the bridge know of community interest in keeping it in place and in a condition that accommodates the use you describe.
The Oklahoma Department of Transportation administers the transportation enhancements grants program that was created under federal law. For information about the program, you can contact Rick Johnson at 405/521-2454 (ODOT, Special Projects). The enhancements program has several categories of activities that are eligible for funding, such as pedestrian and bike routes, etc.
You might also contact the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department and ask about any federal funds they may have for trails and park improvements.
I hope this is helpful. If you have further questions, just let me know.
Melvena Heisch
Deputy SHPO
State Historic Preservation Office
Oklahoma Historical Society
Oklahoma History Center
800 Nazih Zuhdi Drive
Oklahoma City, OK 73105-7917
405/522-4484
FAX 405/522-0816
mheisch@okhistory.org
--- On Mon, 3/12/12, Melvena Heisch
From: Melvena Heisch
Subject: Re: Saving Combs Bridge
To: "Ron Cook"
Date: Monday, March 12, 2012, 1:31 PM
The bridge is clearly old enough to qualify for the register, but there must be significance associated with it. It appears that it was found ineligible because it is a very common bridge type.
You might be interested to know that even when bridges are eligible for the National Register, they are often lost to demolition. Whether an old bridge can be retained in place depends on engineering factors related to the old bridge's location in relation to the new one, the condition of the old bridge, identification of a use for it, and an entity willing to maintain the bridge for that use.
You might find the following website of interest. It contains some case studies on bridge rehabilitation:
http://environment.transportation.org/cop/groups/historic_bridges/media/default.aspx
Melvena
From: Ron Cook [mailto:fourteenmilecreek@yahoo.com]
Sent: Tuesday, March 13, 2012 6:49 PM
To: Will Fourkiller
Cc: Juliet Abdeljawad
Subject: Fw: Re: Saving Combs Bridge
Honorable Representative Fourkiller,
This is Ron Cook, Below, is a copy of a letter I sent Melvena, at the Oklahoma Historical Society, concerning the slated demolition of Combs Bridge .
Regards,
Ron Cook
--- On Tue, 3/13/12, Ron Cook
From: Ron Cook
Subject: Re: Saving Combs Bridge
To: "Melvena Heisch"
Cc: fourteenmilecreek@yahoo.com
Date: Tuesday, March 13, 2012, 6:22 PM
Melvena,
The significance of Combs Bridge is not it's bridge type, but it's Bridge History.
Combs Bridge was built less than 20 years after Statehood, from Oklahoma 's meager, newly founded, State Treasury. It was during a time of great upheaval in the area that had recently been known as, ' Indian Territory ;' a place where outlaws could still out wit the Law.
Combs Bridge was the main crossing between Cherokee and Adair Counties , North of Tahlequah, Oklahoma . Pretty Boy Floyd's family lived in Sequoyah County , Combs Bridge ties these three counties together.
In 1931 Pretty Boy Floyd and George Birdwell robbed the Bank in Tahlequah , Oklahoma and took leave of the place down long, and lonely, dirt roads, via Combs Bridge . Famed Sheriff Grover Bishop gave chase.
(excerpt from Sheriff Bishop's obituary) It wasn't unusual to see the 16-year veteran officer toting a sub-machine gun in those days. He learned to use a machine gun while serving in France during World War I and utilized that experience while sheriff. "If I hadn't used one, I wouldn't have lasted as long as I did"
Bishop was awarded the "Gangbuster" radio program "Public Hero no. 1 Award for heroism and valor in 1933. The two men, Floyd and Birdwell were shot at, but escaped to resume their lives of crime that frequently had them running the back roads and using Combs Bridge to make their escapes into Adair and Sequoyah counties, where relatives and friends put them up and hid them out.
During this same crime spree, pretty Boy Floyd, and Birdwell, also robbed banks in Maud , Okla. Earlsboro, Konawa, Morris, and Shamrock. The gang hid out in the Pumpkin Hollow, proctor Region, using Combs bridge as the 'back door' the newly established State's Banking system. On December 12, 1931 the duo robbed two banks in one day, causing Bank's insurance rates to double nearly over night. Also causing the Governor of Oklahoma to put a substantial Reward on their heads "Dead or Alive".
(excerpt from Pretty Boy Floyd Bio):
In time he ended up hiding out back in the Cookson Hills near his hometown, where he was accepted and protected by the people. Floyd became known as 'The Robin Hood of the Cookson Hills'.
Proof of these high speed excursions across Combs Bridge lie in the fact that, In 1994 Joe Ford and his Son found Pretty Boy Floyd's get away car; a 1929 Ford Model A, just 8 miles upstream from Combs Bridge...
(Excerpt from KTUL Report May 21, 2007).
There are 52 bullet holes in the back of the car, got 'em one night in 1932 down near Ada, Oklahoma in a run in with federal agents.
"He just took off through the corn field, corn stalks were just a flyin' over the top of the car, the agents run out of the timber, they fired 110 rounds at the car. There's 52 of them that hit the body of the car," said Ford.
None hit “Pretty Boy,” he had armor plate on the back of the seats.
Joe Ford and his sons did all the restoration work on the ’29 themselves, except the upholstery, and it took five years to restore the Model A. They wanted to drive it on the street so they added some stuff like the engine, a 327 Chevy.
"That's what everybody says that looks at it, if the car had this in it there wouldn’t be any bullet hole in the car," said Ford.
Joe Ford takes the car to car shows all over Oklahoma . It has won lots of awards, and it isn’t hard to recognize, it’s the only one with 52 bullet holes in the back.
-------------------------------------
Now, to more recent Combs Bridge History: In 2003, the Walt Disney Movie, "Where the Red Fern Grows"; a full length motion picture, was filmed on location at Combs Bridge . In fact, Combs Bridge remains the most recognizable landmark in the entire film, about a boy and his two coon dogs, "Little Ann. and Ol' Dan".
I have one of these coon dogs, and live just three miles from the bridge. I watched the film crews on location for several days.
There are few, more, significant landmarks in this region, than Combs Bridge. The reason for this being, our wanton demolition of things that tie us to our past.
Regards,
Ron Cook
FW: Re: Saving Combs Bridge
1 recipients
Wednesday, March 21, 2012 12:55 PM
Ken,
This is Ron Cook. Below is a copy of the response I got from Representative Fourkiller's Office this morning. Do you know anyone interested in saving Combs Bridge as a pedestrian walkway to be used as the starting and finishing point of your pumpkin Holler Hunnerd Miler?
If so, they had better get on the band wagon pretty quick. The bridge is scheduled for demolition in 2013.
Regards,
Ron
--- On Wed, 3/21/12, Juliet Abdeljawad
From: Juliet Abdeljawad
Subject: FW: Re: Saving Combs Bridge
To: "'Ron Cook'"
Cc: "Will Fourkiller"
Date: Wednesday, March 21, 2012, 10:32 AM
Good Morning Ron,
Thank you for providing us with the letter that you have mailed out to the Oklahoma Historical Society. Our office has continued to follow up with this issue over the past week. I have been in recent communication with Richard ODOT’s special projects division. As an update they have discussed a potential source of funding with me this morning. It is known as the enhancement funds that the bridge would be eligible under. In order to qualify for this there is an application process. The application is found online at http://www.okladot.state.ok.us/projmgmt/enhance_prog/index.htm. There are sample applications which I would highly recommend as an idea to go off of. The funds are available once every two years so we are in luck as they should be announced this spring. Application cycle should open around April/May with preliminary applications due the 1st of October. Please continue to check this website for their announcements and feel free to contact us if you would like a letter of support or something of that nature. Again we thank you very much for taking an interest in protecting the combs bridge, should we be of any additional assistant do not hesitate to ask.
Thank You,
Juliet Abdeljawad
Legislative Assistant
Representative Fourkiller, HD 86
405-557-7394
Representative Lockhart, HD 3
405-557-7413
________________________________________
From: Ron Cook
Re: Re: Saving Combs Bridge
1 recipients
Wednesday, March 21, 2012 1:59 PM
Thanks Ken,
This will be a great help! Lots of noise is needed, beyond the 'local yocals'. When I first started writing letters, there was very little interest in Oklahoma City. (I am just one person). Maybe if enough people get together, we can make a difference. Currently, no formal group to save the bridge exists. Do you have resources to follow up on the below mentioned application process? This morning Representative Fourkiller's office wrote:
Good Morning Ron,
Thank you for providing us with the letter that you have mailed out to the Oklahoma Historical Society. Our office has continued to follow up with this issue over the past week. I have been in recent communication with Richard ODOT’s special projects division. As an update they have discussed a potential source of funding with me this morning. It is known as the enhancement funds that the bridge would be eligible under. In order to qualify for this there is an application process. The application is found online at http://www.okladot.state.ok.us/projmgmt/enhance_prog/index.htm. There are sample applications which I would highly recommend as an idea to go off of. The funds are available once every two years so we are in luck as they should be announced this spring. Application cycle should open around April/May with preliminary applications due the 1st of October. Please continue to check this website for their announcements and feel free to contact us if you would like a letter of support or something of that nature. Again we thank you very much for taking an interest in protecting the combs bridge, should we be of any additional assistant do not hesitate to ask.
Thank You,
Juliet Abdeljawad
Legislative Assistant
Representative Fourkiller, HD 86
405-557-7394
Representative Lockhart, HD 3
405-557-7413
--- On Wed, 3/21/12, Ken Childress
From: Ken Childress
Subject: Re: Re: Saving Combs Bridge
To: "Ron Cook"
Date: Wednesday, March 21, 2012, 1:41 PM
Ron,
I have blogged on this issue, and Facebooked about it as well. There is a considerable amount of interest--people willing to make calls, sign petitions, and write letters. When it comes to financial support, the interest wains somewhat. What do we need to be doing? I copy and publish your latest email correspondence. We can make a little noise I am sure.
Ken
CLICK HERE for the application mentioned above. You have to then click another link to open the app in Word or Adobe. I have briefly read it, and it's a bunch of legal smeegal mumbo jumbo--but we need to wade through it and go through the required process to get the ball rolling. With the history that the bridge has, with the retro-charm, and the fact that it makes the PH100 so darn cool, we need to rally.
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